1. Of course, we have to start out with a good piece of check-in luggage.

I decided to go with a medium suitcase because, for my needs, I can usually bring only 20-30 kilos on flights anyway. Plus I already have a big-ass one for my international travels that I’m looking to replace because it’s way too heavy.

Forget the high-end brands; they call too much attention to themselves and mark you out as a targets for thieves.

I like Urban, which is available in SM stores. They’re locally made and are good quality. And, most importantly, they won’t break the bank. They’ve got those four wheels that spin in all directions. And they’re well-placed so that if your bag is full, it won’t tip over. (Forget Voyager. Their bags tip over.)

The only problem is their design. Most of them come in the loudest, tackiest colors, and not in a good way.

I got the best one which is black with yellow trim. It’s simple and easy to spot on the carousel.

I tried buying another one for Nicolas at SM Cebu but the designs they had on stock were hideous. I managed to find an acceptable army-green one but they didn’t have it in a medium size. Even the basic black ones they had were ugly. I’m hoping I’ll have better luck finding something inoffensive in Manila.

2. A good carry-on bag.

I bought my trusty Samsonite in London in 2002. I bought it because it had a padded laptop compartment.