The key is to buy lightweight but sturdy luggage. A lot of it depends on how much you plan on traveling. You can buy the JC Penney brand if you don't plan on traveling much--it's actually pretty decent luggage, and often on sale 25-50% off.
If you plan on traveling more often, the Samsonite or American Tourister is a good idea, although some of that can be expensive and not hold up any better than lower cost luggage.
I use mostly Tumi, it's very expensive and generally not worth the cost for someone who will only use it once or twice a year. It's ultra lightweight. Also TravelPro, which is what airlines issue to their employees, which is also great luggage.
Remember, the 50 pounds includes the suitcase, although to be honest, 50 pounds is a LOT of stuff. Out of curiosity I weighed my bag before I traveled last weekend, and with clothes/toiletries for four days plus a laptop, it was only 22 pounds, including the suitcase.
Anne