If there’s one thing I love doing, it’s travelling. But it seems I can only find luggage in dark, depressing colours or cheesy patterns.

Now that the thought of summer road trips and exotic getaways are in mind, finding luggage which is both stylish and durable (and will fit everything you need) can be a difficult task.

It’s time to step away from dull blacks and grays and the dreaded maroon-coloured luggage and totes, and move onto the new collection of luggage available out there to suit your specific needs.

Unless you’re off to a tropical destination, thinking about the beach is still a few months away. But it’s never too soon to start thinking about how you’ll haul around your beach essentials.

B.b.begonia is a company developed in Winnipeg which has designed eco-friendly reusable bags which can be used in a multitude of ways. It states on their website that “The exclusive prints and colours on b.b.begonia bags are developed carefully to be contemporary and cheerful.” Taking into consideration that fashion and function do go hand in hand, these bags are lightweight and durable and come in bright colours and an interesting array of designs.

If you are travelling internationally and need durable luggage which you can easily spot, the Rimowa Salsa Air Multiwheel is a good choice. In a purple metallic case, also available in silver and gold, the luggage is near impossible to damage and its smooth-rolling four-wheel design ensures easy travel.

The Heys Luggage in “Exotic Giraffe” and “Exotic Zebra” are my two favourites. The hard case and abstract designs create a unique look for this luggage and will keep everything you need held in nicely. Depending on the outside patterns, lining on the interior is designed to match accordingly. Available in other designs such as Camo, Croc and Exotic Tiger, this luggage will have you travelling in style.

Available at U.N. Luggage on McDermot Avenue, quality-made luggage will last you for years to come.

Carry-on luggage can vary from wheeled versions to tote bags.

If you want the best of both worlds, the Fashionaire Wheeled Upright by Samsonite is the bag for you. The ’60s black-and-white design of this bag is a classic, and with waterproof liner, bottom grip and a retractable leather side handle, ensures an easy move on and off the plane.

The Harveys Seat Belt bags are definitely something different and on long flights can be a conversation starter. Made out of 100 per cent seat belt material, this unique bag is durable and can be used to store books, magazines and a blanket.

Travelling is not exactly cheap, so having enough funds to spend on new, easily identifiable luggage may be an issue. An easy solution to readily locate your luggage at the baggage claim is to strap on a luggage belt. Journey’s Travel & Leisure Supercentre offers an array of styles including Canadian flags, stripes and polka dots in bright colours.

Strapped for cash? Grab one of your own belts and wrap it around your luggage. This is a free and easy way to truly tell which luggage is yours.