What are the benefits of buying luggage online

asks Margie

A. The benefits are that it is usually a lot cheaper than buying the same piece of luggage on the high street and you don't have to lug it home.

Q. Can you recommend some good online sites

A. Some of the most popular include the following:

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EBags (www.ebags.com):

Although the bestseller at eBags is a Skyway under-the-seat carry-on bag (currently available here at 50% less than the RRP), you can basically find most types of luggage here, including all the top brands like Samsonite, Atlantic etc.

Its most popular styles are backpacks, messenger bags and laptop carriers, which sell as well as traditional suitcases and wheel-on bags. Stock here is also cheaper than in the high street, approximately 40% cheaper across the board, but some sale items have been knocked down by 75%.

One really useful section�is�the Carry-On Requirements service -�a really nifty reference point that provides comprehensive information on each airline's strict new luggage carry-on requirements (particularly relevant for US flights).

Although each airline has its own set of requirements, eBags recommends a 22x14x9 inch or 45 inches in total for all carry-on bags. It then lists all the airlines and lets you know how many bags you're allowed to carry on, what size it can be and how heavy, eg carry-on bags for Korean Airlines can be no larger than

45 inches (total outside dimensions), you can carry one bag on and its weight limit is 22lbs or for Virgin Atlantic you can carry one bag onboard, it can be no heavier than 13lbs and can be no larger than 45 inches in total.�

Less traditional items available at eBags include toiletry kits, nappy bags, palm cases, phone carriers, wallets and gym bags.

But eBags isn't just an online shop for selling luggage -�it has some unique add-on services that make it more attractive to the online browser. For example, it has a Laptop Bag Finder service. All you have to do is enter the exact dimensions (length, width, depth) of your laptop computer, and eBags will find you a perfect match�- this is especially good for iBook owners, as the unusual shape of this laptop computer makes it difficult to find a carrier that fits properly�- and if you bought a model last year it would not have come with a carrier.

eBags also issues gift certificates�- so it's a good place to buy your presents.

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Luggage Online (www.luggageonline.com):

Luggage Online promises that shopping at its site will be a memorable and satisfying experience�- and its site is very user friendly and easy to navigate so it is hassle-free, with each page downloading quickly and clearly. It also guarantees low prices�- as an online venture it obviously has less overheads�- so if you find the same piece of luggage cheaper elsewhere (online), contact Luggage Online within 30 days of your initial purchase and they will refund the difference.

This site also has a Smart Store, which will help you to buy your luggage if you have no idea what to take with you�- alternatively, if you don't trust electronic advice you can dial its help line and speak to a luggage expert who will advise you on any purchase.

This site also offers some great packing tips�- though I

don't know anyone who can organise their travel wardrobe around�two colour schemes�- travel tips, travel safety reports, airline baggage guidelines and links to some of the cheapest online flight reservation sites.

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Luggage Line (www.luggage-line.com): This UK-based online venture specialises in luggage of all types primarily

trolley bags, matched sets, hard cases and business bags�- all of which are made by the Eminent Luggage Company, the largest luggage manufacturer in Asia. If you order any luggage before 12 noon it will be dispatched the same day and sent via UPS or Parcel Force ' providing next-day delivery where possible.

This site also offers some great travel tips e.g. how to beat

dehydration, tips on how to pack like a pro, a packing checklist and travel links to other sites ' particularly for low-cost flights.

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Smart Pack (www.smartpack.co.uk): If you are worried about creased clothes after any journey, then this could be the site for you to check out. Smartpack is a registered trademark, and the company provides luggage that guarantees crease-free packing ' if you combine its range of compact and very stylish luggage with its SMART crease-free folding system,�you will never have to use an iron again, well not a travel iron anyway.

Smartpack uses patented lightweight frames in its bags that fold clothes into a compact shape without creases, save space

and help you organise your packing with maximum efficiency. Its suit-and-skirt frame uses an innovative ABS frame and nylon wrap to hold a pair of trousers in tension to prevent creasing; the jacket then folds neatly, crease-free over the trousers. For shirts or blouses, a 'roll-fold' holds a shirt or blouse taut within an area no bigger than an A4 pad. This site also has tips on how to fold any piece of clothing.

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by Karen Anderson