Leather luggage and accessories are known to offer travelers durability and beauty. There are a few things to know before selecting this material for baggage and travel accessories, however.

First of all, travelers will notice that leather goods come in different finishes and textures, from shiny to soft matte designs. While many shiny pieces can be the result of manmade leathers that combine natural hide strips with bonds or epoxies to make smooth, it can also be the result of a high quality piece of leather that has been treated. An example of this is patent leather. In addition, some pieces are brushed, buffed, or embossed with a pattern to look like an exotic animal skin. Premium leather makers will often use a traditional vegetable tanning process that takes two to six weeks. This produces a richer look and feel than using chemicals. All of these variations can be confusing to a first time buyer, so enlisting the help of a qualified sales person ensures that the right piece is purchased.

Travelers should remember that leather luggage is typically heavier than nylon and other fibers, sometimes making it less desirable for those who don't pack lightly. Many passengers do not mind the heavier design, though, since it is durable and looks more elegant.

Finally, leather luggage needs to be coated to remain waterproof and resist staining. Some cheaper pieces employ spray- on leather protectant, but it must be done regularly to remain effective High quality pieces are usually treated with waxes and oils, or even a hot soaking method to soften it and protect it from water.