Buying your first set of luggage can be a nerve-wracking but exciting experience, especially if there is a fun trip to anywhere in your future. You've probably never given much thought to the size, style, color, or features that would be most important to you. Savvy manufacturers, answering the needs of time-weary travelers with lots of luggage-buying experience, have provided numerous features you will find useful, necessary and beautiful.

For example, did you ever consider what the best luggage material might be? How about that beautiful leather bag over there in the corner? Sure, it's pretty and expensive, but leather can prove too delicate for the wear and tear inflicted on the average luggage. Also, consider the fact that anyone walking around with all-leather luggage probably appears wealthy to airport thieves. Leather comparing to fabric is sort of like the difference between a Toyota and a Ferrari. Guess whose luggage will be broken into or stolen first? Your best fabric choice is micro fiber, a woven nylon or polyester blend. It is water resistant and durable and can stand up to the abuse heaped upon it by luggage handlers.

Bags with rigid frames will be durable but hard to fit into tight spaces. You may want to look for bags with a more squeezable feel, something you can “smash” to fit into smaller, more confined areas.

What kind of additional features are most important? Waterproof compartments are great if you're headed to the beach. Don't forget to take those wet things out before you pack for home, though, or you'll be facing a good deal of must and mildew. These compartments are also great for items that may leak during travel, like shampoos, lotions or mouthwash. Some bags feature useful small removable bags, great for cosmetics or toiletries, that snap in and out of the larger bag. Most bags have numerous outside pockets of different sizes, useful for tickets, passports, extra money, and all kinds of smaller items. Just remember that the more you stuff the outside, the slimmer your chances the bag will fit in the overhead.

You may want to take a more experienced traveler with you on your first purchase. Not only can they keep you from paying too much and giving in to the temptation to purchase that diamond-studded leather bag, but their experience will be invaluable in making the best choice for your needs.