August is all about warm weather travel

August is all about warm weather travel. Those who haven’t taken a vacation yet will try to squeeze one in. Those who can’t afford to take a lot of time off will look forward to getting out of town for the long Labour Day weekend.

And whether you’re going on a multi-week vacation to a far-off locale or just taking a long weekend getaway, a chic piece of luggage adds to the exhilaration. A signature look can also reduce confusion when you’re trying to determine which piece is yours on the overcrowded conveyor belt at baggage claim.

A cute and identifiable bag doesn’t have to have a loud graphic print. Try a sleek model in a vibrant colour. For example, actress Diane Kruger carries a Rimowa Salsa Deluxe suitcase, which spins, glides and comes in a protective hard case ($475 for carry-on, Forero’s Bag and Luggage, 2186 West 41st Ave. in Vancouver). The bold suitcase adds a punch of colour to Kruger’s off-duty airport look, and the way the case rolls with minimal effort makes travelling with a lot of luggage far less cumbersome.

For something decidedly beachy, an aqua roller duffel from Halsea ($400, www.halsea.com) is perfect for a long weekend getaway. It’s a nice size for a few nights’ worth of clothing and a few days’ worth of bathing suits and cover-ups, plus you have the option of rolling it along with the pullout handle or carrying it.

For the hipster teen or anyone who favours an ‘80s-style neon print, Burton has an angular print carry-on roller ($169.95, available at select Sport Chek stores) that’s easy to spot even in a crowded terminal.

A leopard-print pony trolley from Jimmy Choo ($4,995, jimmychoo.com) certainly makes a statement. It’s a good match for the chic traveller who wants her travel gear to reflect her love of high-end accessories.

And for light and versatile packing without losing any style, Mulberry’s fold-up large clipper bag in a fuchsia and grey cheetah print ($450, mulberry.com) is the perfect size for carry-on or for a long weekend. A plus: It folds up neatly into its own little pouch when not in use.