Taking the Kids is now featuring “cool travel gear” – in our continuing effort to help families on their journeys. The right gear—whether yo

u are going hiking, biking or exploring a new city—can make all the difference.

Here’s some of what I’ve discovered  works great in the luggage department recently:

GeniusPack hardshell rollerboard

GeniusPack hardshell rollerboard

A SPINNER CARRY ON. Those four wheels really make the difference!

I like the hard case Genius Pack with its internal compartments—even one for chargers and dirty laundry! It’s less than $200.

Eagle Creek Expanse Upright

Eagle Creek Expanse Upright

Another favorite of mine is the Eagle Creek Expanse Uprights — it’s especially lightweight with a front pocket for your laptop or tablet and a compression strap that helps you make the most of your space  ($239). There is also an expansion zipper for souvenirs. The bad news: It is currently out of stock.  Meanwhile, get more organized with Eagle Creek’s Packing Organizers.  I use them every trip!

Expandable Spinner by Briggs and Riley

Expandable Spinner by Briggs and Riley

Briggs and Riley’s new International Carry-On Expandable Spinner is the first hard shell that is expandable, allowing you to stuff in for 22 percent more and then compress back to the original size ($529). If you pack like I do that’s important.

Next: The right shoes for travel