When it comes to packing for your travels, do you rely on quality investment pieces or is cheap and cheerful better? Two well-travelled writers on either side of the divide put forward their cases

Low-cost, low hassle, says adventurer Graham Hughes (@everycountry)

On my quest to visit every country in the world, I was (naturally) on a shoestring budget – including cost-effective luggage. I travelled with a small Lowe Alpine backpack, around 8kg when fully packed.

And it travelled well, under seats or in overhead compartments. I didn’t have to worry about it being put on top of a long-distance bus in Africa or in the boot of a taxi – it was small enough to sit on my knee.

The problem with big expensive suitcases is they come pre-loaded with a natural desire to fill them, probably with items you’ll never use on holiday. This can lead to extra transportation charges, difficulties getting around and the increased likelihood of accidentally leaving items behind.

The only time I’d travel with a ‘proper’ suitcase is if I had a business meeting or job interview and had to dress smartly. Even then, I would never dream of splashing out on a designer brand simply for the name. My advice? If you’re going on a beach holiday for a couple of weeks, take a small, well-made backpack. My cheap one did me proud – I lived out of it for four years, travelling to more than 200 countries.

Style and substance, says fashion editor of Coach magazine and blogger Gary Kingsnorth, (@tskthestyleking)

Considering the battering a suitcase can get being carted around from taxi to airport conveyor belts, finding dependable luggage that can withstand travel – and the test of time – is imperative.

My reliable Mulberry luggage has been with me for more than 10 years and looks better after each journey, whether I’m travelling for fashion shoots or pleasure. Instantly recognisable on the airport carousel in a sea of cheap black suitcases, it still looks good as new.

How often do the wheels fall off, or the handles break, on a cheap suitcase? Wear and tear will mean more replacements over the years, which could end up costing you more than one investment piece.

As well as durable wheels, well-made luggage comes with different compartments to make packing easier. Adding a sense of style to your travels is a bonus.

Brands such as Louis Vuitton, Globe-Trotter and Gucci have built reputations around quality and craftsmanship. Invest in their pieces and they should last forever – you may even end up bequeathing it in your will. My mum’s LV is going to her granddaughter.

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This article has been tagged Opinion, Travel Tips