Hardside luggage is not as popular as it once was, with so many other options such as wheeled carry on luggage, mobile garment bags and expandable mobile travelers. It used to be that hardside luggage was the only option available. Chests, crates and trunks made of wood and other heavy materials were usually shipped as freight. Many popular lines of luggage have become more lightweight and easier to move, though, and even hardside luggage is typically not made of wood any more.

Today's more modern luggage collections, such as the Rolling Intensity Luggage Collection from Hartmann Luggage, include a number of bags, cases and containers that hold a traveler's articles during air transit without taking up a lot of space. Before World War II, however, the luggage collections that were popular were large and had to be transported by professional movers. In those days, one's luggage was extremely important and having a large set of luggage meant that an individual was someone of great status and importance.

Before the more modern collections of luggage with convenient features such as durable wheels, telescopic handles, durable locks and various zippered pockets were introduced, luggage typically consisted of chests or trunks. These luggage collections were historically made of heavy materials or solid woods that had to be shipped as freight. They kept clothing and other items safe, but they were certainly not convenient.

Luggage has become more lightweight and easier to move in the 21st century, to accommodate large families on vacations, business travelers taking frequent trips for work, and people that just like to travel a lot without the hassles. Rolling Intensity Luggage, for example, combines high-performance ballistic nylon (the same material used in military bulletproof vests) with tough full-grain leather and strong, antique brass or matte black nickel finished hardware. These mobile traveler pieces offer durable handles, wheels and frame systems that combine performance, convenience and style.

While there are still hardside luggage products on the market, such as the Tweed Pullman briefcase, it is most common to see leather and nylon baggage that is conveniently carried on wheels. And these aren't just for the wealthy and elite; modern luggage is accessible and more durable than ever.