This piece fits the requirements for a good piece of luggage--sturdy, wheeled, retracting handle. Walking through an airport with it should be a breeze. Photo courtesy http://blog.irvsluggage.com

Packing light is a major step in having an enjoyable trip. What you put your clothes and other items in is equally important.

While luggage can be a costly investment, the first time you have a wheel come off or a zipper break, you will regret any money you saved.

If you are looking for a starting place, see what professional travelers use in this review on flight attendant Heather Poole’s blog.

When shopping for luggage, there area few things to keep in mind.

First, imagine what it will be like to be dragging that suitcase or duffel bag through an airport or train station. While the steps from your ride to the airport to the check-in area may seem short, imagine being in a large hub airport like Amsterdam, needing to clear customs and get to a connecting flight. Schiphol Airport is so large that there are signs pointing to terminals that list the average time to get there. Those times are often 20 to 45 minutes. That may not include massive numbers of fellow travelers to weave through or an additional security check.

Second, imagine yourself hefting that bag into an overhead bin. Even if you follow the dictum to pack light, on some large airliners, those bins are up high and if you are not a weight lifter or tall, getting your bag up and down could present challenges.

Finally, remember that by the time you reach your final destination, you may have been on the move for as much as 24 hours. I don’t know about you, but by then, my body no longer is operating at optimal strength.

So, here are some must have features for every piece of luggage.

1. Wheels. If you can afford it, the ones that turn like balls so your luggage is easily maneuvered. Before I ever owned a wheeled suitcase, I had to transverse the airport in Toronto from one end to the other carrying a heavy suitcase. That included clearing customs. No carts allowed. I was a sweaty mess when I boarded my last leg home. Ugh!

2. A leash or easy to use handle that retracts. This will free up a hand or arm to carry your carry-on or coat or whatever. It is even better if your luggage is the type that allows you to strap your carry-on to it. You often will see flight crews with this type of luggage.

3. Get one that either has a TSA approved luggage lock or buy a TSA approved luggage lock. While this is ostensibly to prevent theft, it also may prevent your zipper from working its way open and having your underwear fly on to the concourse.

Having solid, reliable luggage is like having good tires on your car. Sure, they will get you down the block for months on end. But inevitably they will blow out on a stormy night when the hassle factor is at its greatest.