Most experienced travelers, at least the ones that are not independently wealthy who can afford to have their manservant travel with them, will always suggest that you pack as few bags as you think you possibly can, then divide those things in half and repack.
Choosing the right suitcase is of utmost importance. The bag must be made very well, but it doesnt have to have that ever-so-chic designer label on it. It need not cost a fortune either. The bag is going to get banged up and beat up, so do not take that 200 year old steamer trunk your great, great, great grandparents used to come over from Ireland. Its a little heavier than you need anyway, it probably doesnt have wheels and you wont be taking every belonging you own like they did — hopefully.
Everyone in the world seems to travel with a black bag(s). I used to think it was just a hoot that my mother would always crochet a bright red or orange pompom and attach to each of her bags when she would come for a visit. Turns out she knew exactly what she was doing. When those bags went round and round on the luggage conveyor, we all could spot hers immediately. We were all reasonably embarrassed too, but the lady had a good plan. So when you choose the piece(s) of luggage you are taking, make sure they stand out from the other hundreds that are going on the plane — or boat or train of whatever. Choose a color that will embarrass anyone under twenty. Hot pink might be good or my personal favorite, day-glow green. Just make sure you can recognize your bags easily.
What you put in that luggage is definitely important. Extremely comfortable shoes are a must. And take two pair of them so you can wear one pair one day and another pair the next. Your feet will thank you. You can pack one pair of shoes for those more formal occasions if you are planning any.
Those clothes you have chosen to take, are they comfortable enough to sleep in? That seems to be my only criteria as far as clothing. Take what you want, just make sure your travel wear is comfortable, make sure you have layers, make sure you carry colors that can be mixed and matched (blacks and tans go with most anything) and make sure you can wear those pants with several tops and vice versa.
Leave your most precious jewelry at home. The end. No more discussion. Take along the pieces that wont make you appear to be a flashy, trendy tourist. Take those simple pieces that will go with almost anything you wear. If your bags get lost, that rare ruby pendant that Aunt Sadie got from the Maharaja of Menamoomoo will be tucked away at home in your safe deposit box.
So I think that should help out a bit. And when you arrive at that exotic location and find that there are no elevators and it is seventy-eight steps to your room and no bellman, you will be glad you gave some thought to these things. Youll have me to thank that you only have ONE light bag, that is has some defining element to its appearance, and, of course, that it has wheels.