best travel hard case

Protect Your Trip »

The 5 best hard-sided luggage picks of 2024.

These are the top options tested and chosen by our editors.

The Best Hard-sided Luggage Picks

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

In the world of luggage there are many factors to consider: the price, the size(s) you'll want for your journeys and the key features. One of the first decisions to make is if you prefer hard-sided or soft-sided luggage . If you like a sturdy, sleek and water-resistant exterior that you can easily wipe off, a hard-sided suitcase may be your perfect match.

From carry-ons to checked bags, there are countless hard-sided luggage options. To help narrow the choices, our editors tested dozens of bags on a variety of trips and surfaces. Read on to find the best hard-sided luggage options, tested and reviewed by our team of travel experts.

Best Carry-on: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Original – Large

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Checked: Away The Medium

Best budget: amazon basics 20-inch hardside spinner, best lightweight: july carry on light, best expandable: travelpro platinum elite carry-on hardside spinner.

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time this article was published; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. Original photos were taken by our editors during luggage testing.)

Polycarbonate vs. polypropylene vs. ABS

• Good – ABS: ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is a durable, cost-effective material; however, it doesn't handle high temperatures or general misuse as well as its counterparts. ABS luggage works for those who travel infrequently.
• Better – Polypropylene: Polypropylene is lightweight and durable but has a lower impact resistance than polycarbonate. It's also a more cost-effective option.
• Best – Polycarbonate: Widely considered the best material for hard-sided luggage, polycarbonate is a hardy form of plastic. It's so durable that it's actually used in bullet-resistant glass. Polycarbonate luggage is essentially damage-proof.

Price:  $315 or less

With a built-in (yet removable) closet system, this suitcase was selected by U.S. News as the overall best piece of carry-on luggage . Constructed with a durable polycarbonate shell, an aluminum frame, reinforced corners and an ergonomic handle, this suitcase is designed for the demands of travel. Whether it's rolling along cobblestone streets in Europe or getting checked on a small regional jet, this carry-on bag will hold up well and lessen the need to constantly pack and unpack. It also opens with just a quick pinch of the latch (goodbye zipper struggles) and has durable spinner wheels to whisk through airports and train stations.

What our editors say:

The built-in closet is a complete game changer. I love that I can pack the suitcase at home, and when I reach my destination I just pull up the closet and I can find everything with ease. The handle is also super comfortable, which is great for long travel days with multiple connections. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $345 or less

Away has mastered the recipe for hard-sided luggage that lasts: A 100% polycarbonate shell and sleek design combine to create ultra-lightweight bags that are virtually indestructible – and just plain pretty. Away's checked luggage encompasses The Large , The Large Flex (with expandability), The Trunk , The Medium Flex and finally The Medium – our personal favorite.

The Medium can accommodate at least a week's worth of clothing or more, depending on how you pack. Inside you'll find interior compression and plenty of compartments for organization. Other features include an underside grab handle (especially useful when pulling your bag off the belt at baggage claim), 360-degree wheels and a TSA combination lock.

I like that this checked bag is just big enough, and that I never have to worry about it getting damaged by baggage handlers at the airport. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $80 or less

This affordable Amazon hard-sided carry-on piece is made of ABS, which means it's versatile and lasts even if exposed to inclement weather like rain and snow. The hard-sided textured design of this carry-on also means scuffs, scratches and dents are less likely to show on the exterior. Additional standout features on this bag include smooth double-spinner wheels, an additional zipper for expandability, interior pockets for organization and compression straps to allow you to fit as much as you need into it.

This is an excellent budget-friendly piece of carry-on luggage. I appreciate how well it's made, and the textured exterior has a cool look but is also functional in combating dings and scratches. The carry-on can squeeze in a respectable amount of clothes, shoes and accessories as well. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Price: $245 or less

Combining durability with lightweight construction, the July Carry On Light is one of the lightest hard-sided suitcases on the market. The exterior shell is made of aerospace-grade German polycarbonate. The bag also features a twin bar three-stop telescopic handle and double spinner wheels for balance and durability. The interior is divided into two compartments, separated by lightweight zippered mesh panels, and completed with a water-resistant nylon lining.

I've tried a lot of lightweight luggage, and this suitcase surpasses all the other competition. It's extremely light, durable and holds a lot. Unlike other lightweight styles, the July Carry On Light doesn't tip over easily, and the quality of the construction is not sacrificed to make it lighter. – Rachael Hood

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $369.99 or less

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner is a high-quality suitcase that packs a punch. Made with a 100% polycarbonate, ultra-strong shell, the bag also sports aluminum corner guards for extra protection. The expansion zipper grants an extra 2 inches of packing room and includes a pocket for holding a power bank (not included) to connect to charging ports on the side of the bag.

This Travelpro luggage is equipped with a range of other helpful features as well, like self-aligning magnetic wheels, a TSA zipper lock and more. Inside the bag you'll find two large compartments and three pockets, so you'll have plenty of room to fit all your belongings even before using the expansion zipper.

As someone who likes to be prepared (and thus tends to over-pack), I love how spacious this carry-on is. On a recent trip to Mexico, I was easily able to fit four pairs of sandals along with a week's worth of outfits – a couple of which were large, bulky dresses – on top of all my accessories and toiletries. – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Our team of travel experts tested an array of hard-sided luggage across a variety of price points. We packed and took them on a variety of adventures, including weekend getaways and trips abroad. In addition to packability, the wheels and maneuverability were checked on multiple surfaces including asphalt, cobblestones, escalators, carpet and tile. We utilized our findings along with comparing unique features and our travel expertise to curate this list.

You might also be interested in:

• Hard vs. Soft Luggage: Which Type Is Right for You?
• The Best Luggage Sets

The Best Luggage Brands

• The Best Checked Luggage
• Things You Should Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Flight canceled or delayed what to do.

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

The Best Hardside Luggage for Traveling in 2024

A hardshell suitcase keeps your stuff safe and un-squished.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Hardside Luggage

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable.

Best Value Hardside Luggage

Amazon basics 30-inch hardside spinner.

Best Hardside Carry-On Luggage

Away the carry-on.

Best Value Hardside Carry-On Luggage

Open story hardside carry on spinner suitcase.

Best Fashion Hardside Luggage

Calpak ambeur three-piece luggage set.

Best Expandable Hardside Luggage

Travelpro maxlite air hardside expandable luggage.

Best Printed Hardside Luggage

Heys fashion spinner 30".

Best Classic Hardside Luggage

Rimowa cabin s carry-on.

Best Hardside Luggage for International Travel

Briggs & riley sympatico hardside international spinner luggage.

Best Minimalistic Hardshell Luggage

Monos carry-on.

Hardside or hardshell luggage is made of plastic or metal materials that hold their shape to encase and protect your belongings. At the Good Housekeeping Institute , we evaluate hardside luggage in the Textiles Lab, analyzing them for factors like durability, water resistance and ease of use. Plus, we share them with consumer testers who take them on their own trips and share real-world feedback. We've put together a list of picks including lightweight and durable options and hard cases with unique features that we think are worth your buying.

At the end of this guide, you can read more about how we evaluate luggage in our Lab and our consumer tester process — plus everything you need to know about shopping for hardside luggage.

Best Duffel Bags | Best Underseat Luggage | Best Luggage on Amazon | Best Kids' Luggage | Best Smart Luggage | Best Travel Backpacks | Best Packing Cubes | Best Luggage Trackers | Best Travel Gear

Samsonite's high-quality luggage has continued to perform well in our tests over the years , specifically in terms of durability and ease of use. The brand's Freeform hardside suitcase is a favorite of our consumer testers who agree that its wheels roll smoothly and that the bag is easy to maneuver around twists and turns. It also received perfect scores in Lab tests for being a breeze to open and close.

Inside, you'll find a zippered panel and an adjustable cross strap to keep your belongings in place, and we fit our entire packing load in the bag with room to spare. Our consumer testers did point out that the carrying handles are on the smaller side, but they still thought the bag was easy to pick up. There are three different sizes to choose from, or you can buy a set including a carry-on and a checked bag.

With more than 31,000 five-star reviews and a 4.6-star average rating, Amazon Basics' hardside luggage is a favorite of real users and GH analysts alike. When we tested this bag in our Lab, we found it to be spacious, and it received perfect scores for easy packing. Online reviewers agree, adding that they can fill the suitcase with more than enough clothing and essentials for their trips.

The suitcase is made with ABS plastic, which isn't as durable as some other hard materials, but it is lightweight and keeps the price low. Testers appreciated the luggage's wheel performance, sharing that the bag is easy to maneuver, but they found the telescopic handle to be flimsier than other models they tried. This suitcase comes in three different sizes and is available in two and three-piece sets for an even better value.

Several of our Lab experts have been using Away luggage for years and have found them to stand the test of time. T his pick is made of polycarbonate material, which means it's lightweight yet durable. In our testing, we dropped it repeatedly from a 3-foot height, and there were no major signs of damage.

Our consumer testers thought the wheels on Away suitcases rolled smoothly and found they were easy to maneuver, but the handle isn't as sturdy as some other styles. In our packing tests, we were impressed by the compressive panels meant to keep your belongings in place and by the hidden laundry bag you can use to separate your dirty clothes. If you use the suitcase and decide it isn't right for you, the brand offers a 100-day return policy for any reason.

One of the top performers in our Textiles Lab evaluations, the hardside spinner from Open Story at Target is available for an incredible value. The carry-on model is loaded with useful features like a built-in USB port to charge your phone (battery not included), a removable laundry bag to keep your dirty clothes separated and three internal mesh pockets for organization.

Our testers loved the bag's modern look and trendy color options. They also appreciated that the TSA-approved lock is embedded at the top of the suitcase for easier access instead of on the side. When we put the bag through our repeated drop testing in our Lab, the polycarbonate didn't dent or show major signs of damage, but the hardside material did show some marks in our scratch test.

For luggage that's equally fashionable and functional, Calpak's Ambeur suitcases are a great option. The hardshell bags are made with a blend of ABS plastic and polycarbonate that's both lightweight and durable, but we did find the metallic colors scuffed easily. In Lab evaluations, the luggage was dubbed our "tester favorite" because consumer testers were so wowed by the design and ease of use.

The telescopic handles aced our tests, with one tester sharing that it was the "smoothest handle by far" out of all of the bags available for testing. Other testers agreed, explaining that the padded handles were comfortable to lift, pull and push. Plus, the Ambeur luggage aced our packing tests. If you don't need a set of three bags, you can opt for a two-piece set or choose from any of the five styles available.

Travelpro designs luggage for frequent travelers and primarily offers soft fabric luggage, but the brand does have a few hardside pieces including the Maxlite Spinner. This bag has a roomy luggage compartment with two zippered panels, and it can be expanded by 2 inches, lending you extra room for all of your souvenirs on the trip home.

In our Lab tests, Travelpro bags were easy to fill with a full load of clothing and travel gear like toiletries and shoes. They also performed well and earned high durability ratings. Testers loved the cushioned telescopic handles which lock at two different heights. We did find the carrying handles to be on the tighter side, which can make the bag difficult to lift into an overhead bin.

Heys Fashion Spinner 30"

For a fun suitcase that's easy to spot on an airport luggage carousel , try one of Heys' Fashion Spinners. Choose from cute character designs, trendy animal prints, watercolor scenes and bold graphic patterns.

The brand's suitcases are made of a polycarbonate and ABS plastic composite — primarily ABS with a polycarbonate coating for protection. They weren't the most durable in our evaluations and showed some scratches in our tests, but they earned high scores for ease of use. The bag's interior is filled with organizational pockets and compression panels to easily pack all of your belongings. One GH analyst who has owned a Fashion Spinner set for over a decade said the long-lasting bags were spacious and could fit everything needed for a trip, even before using the zippered expansion system.

Rimowa only makes hardside luggage, and it's a cutting-edge brand that continues to impress our Textiles Lab experts . The Original line is made with aluminum, which is more durable than other hard materials like ABS plastic and polycarbonate. This style of suitcase features the brand's iconic grooved design and has a zipperless closure, opting for locking latches instead — TSA-approved, of course.

When you open the suitcase, you'll find two spacious packing compartments and two adjustable compression panels to keep your belongings in place. Rimowa's suitcases are much more expensive than other brands, but they are among the best in our tests with high ratings for packing space, durability and maneuverability.

Briggs & Riley Sympatico Hardside International Spinner Luggage

This innovative suitcase from Briggs & Riley is full of features to make packing for an international trip easier. On the outside of t he hardside suitcase is an easy-access pocket for your phone and ID. The bag unzips into one large packing space that's fully lined and contains three zip pockets for easy organization. Plus, the bag utilizes Briggs & Riley's unique expansion system, which allows you to expand the bag for additional packing space and then compress it to its standard size once the bag has been filled — with just the push of a button. Our testers recently tried a softside bag from the brand with the same system and were blown away by how much they could fit inside, sharing that there was way more room than expected.

When we tested Briggs & Riley's hardside suitcases in the Textiles Lab, they performed well, receiving high scores for durability, water resistance and ease of use. Testers also shared that the brand's bags were easy to maneuver through our obstacle course and said the telescopic handles were sturdy. Although we didn't experience this issue, some online reviewers have shared that the zipper pulls are prone to breaking with regular use.

Monos' less-is-more approach to design results in a sleek, timeless look that our testers love. The durable polycarbonate luggage may have a simple appearance but doesn't skimp on quality or useful packing features. Inside, you'll find two spacious compartments: one zipper-enclosed compartment and one with an adjustable compression panel. There are also additional zipper pockets inside for even more organized storage space.

The large checked version of this bag was a GH 2023 Family Travel Awards recipient. It aced our durability tests, resisting major dents and damages after being dropped repeatedly from a 3-foot height, but it did show some signs of wear in our scratch tests. When testers tried it in our luggage obstacle course, they were impressed by how easy the bag was to maneuver and how smoothly the spinner wheels rolled around twists and turns. The brand offers sets for an even better value and a generous 100-day return policy.

Victorinox Airox Large Hardside Case

Most large "lightweight" hardshell luggage still weighs at least 10.5 lbs, but this pick from Victorinox is just 9 lbs. We love the unique "butterfly open" interior, which allows you to fold the divider panels out of the way for easy access to the main compartments.

Although we haven't tested this particular bag in the Lab, we have tested many other bags from Victorinox that have received perfect scores in our durability tests and have been rated highly for ease of use. This bag is made of the same polycarbonate material and is designed with many of the same features as the bags we've tested, though you may notice the unique design of the telescopic handle. It's a T-shape which helps keep the weight down, but it does make it less comfortable to pull long distances.

How we test luggage

At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we test luggage using specialized equipment in our Textiles Lab and with consumer testers . When we review luggage, we consider these factors:

✔️ Size and weight: In the Lab, we measure the size and weight of each suitcase to ensure that all online size claims are accurate. We place carry-on bags in a 22" x 14" x 9" area to see if they meet TSA size requirements.

✔️ Extra features: We make note of any additional features or components that make the luggage stand out, like carrying handles, built-in locks and telescopic handles that adjust to different heights.

✔️ Ease of use: We rate how easy it is to zip and unzip each piece of luggage (pictured here) and consider the accessibility of any packing compartments. We also consider features like telescopic handles and wheels.

After packing each bag, we roll it over different surfaces including tile, carpet and hardwood and test the carrying handles by lifting the bag onto a countertop.

✔️ Packing: We fill each bag with a standard packing load for a two-night trip including clothing, accessories and toiletries (picture here) and then score the suitcases based on how much they're able to hold.

✔️ Drop testing: Each piece of luggage is filled with a standard weight and dropped from a 3-foot height from different angles to mimic real use (pictured here). We then analyze the luggage for signs of damage like dents or cracks.

✔️ Consumer testing: Consumer testers take part in our obstacle course that involves rolling the bags over different surfaces like carpet, tile and wood flooring (pictured here), lifting the bags, maneuvering the bags around cones and more. They also share their thoughts on properties like ease of use, sturdiness of the handles and wheel performance.

We share suitcases with testers who are able to take the bags on their own trips and provide us with real-world feedback about their experiences.

What to look for when shopping for the best hardside luggage

When shopping for a hardside suitcase, here are a few things to keep in mind:

✔️ Material: Not all hardside suitcases are made from the same hard material, and the material can impact performance, weight and price. These are the most common:

• Aluminum is the most durable material for hardside luggage, but it's much heavier than other options and can be pretty expensive.
• Polycarbonate is the most popular material for hard luggage. It is both lightweight and durable, but it can scratch easily.
• ABS is a plastic material that is more affordable and even more lightweight than polycarbonate, but it is a bit less durable.
• Polypropylene is another type of plastic that is even lighter than and slightly stronger than ABS plastic. It's fairly durable and affordable, as well.
• A composite or mixture of polycarbonate, ABS and/or polypropylene combines aspects of each material. Most composite suitcases are made with an ABS base coated in polycarbonate material. This adds extra durability, but it still isn't quite as durable as a suitcase made of 100% polycarbonate.

✔️ Wheels: Wheels with 360° spin receive the best maneuverability scores in our Lab tests and with consumer testers. These wheels allow the luggage to rotate fully and move side to side in addition to moving straight ahead.

✔️ Handles: There are two types of handles you should consider: telescopic handles and carrying handles. Telescopic handles extend from the suitcase so you can push and pull the bag around. Check to see if the handle is easy to open and close, whether or not it can be adjusted and if it's padded for comfort. If you're going to be lifting and lowering your bag often, make sure the side and top carrying handles are large enough for you to easily grip them.

✔️ Compartments: Internal compartments aren't necessary, but they can be helpful when it comes to packing and securing your belongings. Interior pockets are often made with mesh panels to allow your belongings to breathe and to help you see what's inside. There are zip pockets to hold extra belongings and zip panels to keep clothing separated inside the suitcase – so you can keep your running shoes away from your nice dress. Some hardside suitcases also come with removable compartments like a laundry bag to contain dirty clothes or a garment bag to hang clothing.

✔️ Returns and warranties: Luggage warranties tend to only cover manufacturer defects, which can often be difficult to prove. If you're worried about spending money on luggage you won't love, opt for a brand that offers a trial period or generous return policy so that you can test the bag before committing, especially if you're shopping online without seeing it in person first.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Amanda Constantine joined the Good Housekeeping Institute in 2022 as a home and apparel reviews analyst. She's tested luggage in the Textiles Lab, including carry-ons, duffels and travel backpacks and has shared suitcases with dozens of consumer testers for real-user feedback. She has also covered the best luggage on Amazon , hardside luggage , checked luggage and kids' luggage .

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Product Reviews

The 6 Best Portable Charcoal Grills

The Best Cleaning Products

The Best Car Upholstery Cleaners

The Best Gifts for 4-Year-Old Girls

The Best Lumbar Support Pillows

The Best Walmart Fire Pits

The Best Toys and Gifts for 3-Year-Old Boys

VIVAIA Shoes Review

The Best Pool Lounge Chairs

The Best Outdoor Dinnerware Sets

The 19 Best Face Creams for Women

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Best in Class

• The 15 Best Women’s Hiking Boots and Shoes The 15 Best Women’s Hiking Boots and Sho…
• The 8 Very Best Blow-dryer Brushes The 8 Very Best Blow-dryer Brushes
• The 9 Very Best Black Work Pants for Women The 9 Very Best Black Work Pants for Wom…
• The 10 Very Best Electric Razors The 10 Very Best Electric Razors
• The 17 Very Best Protein Powders The 17 Very Best Protein Powders
• The 16 Very Best Bras The 16 Very Best Bras
• The 12 Very Best Yoga Pants for Women The 12 Very Best Yoga Pants for Women
• The 6 Very Best Toaster Ovens The 6 Very Best Toaster Ovens
• The 11 Very Best Comforters The 11 Very Best Comforters
• The 8 Very Best Milk Frothers The 8 Very Best Milk Frothers
• The 11 Very Best Wrinkle Creams The 11 Very Best Wrinkle Creams
• The Very Best Men’s Razors The Very Best Men’s Razors
• The 13 Very Best Moisturizers for Mature Skin The 13 Very Best Moisturizers for Mature…
• The 20 Very Best Bathrobes for Women The 20 Very Best Bathrobes for Women
• 33 of the Very Best Vibrators 33 of the Very Best Vibrators
• The 12 Very Best Mattress Toppers The 12 Very Best Mattress Toppers
• 28 of the Very Best Sex Toys for Men 28 of the Very Best Sex Toys for Men
• The 10 Very Best Hard-Side Suitcases The 10 Very Best Hard-Side Suitcases
• The 5 Very Best Egyptian-Cotton Sheets The 5 Very Best Egyptian-Cotton Sheets
• The 13 Very Best Clothes-Drying Racks The 13 Very Best Clothes-Drying Racks
• The 10 Very Best Shampoos for Color-Treated Hair The 10 Very Best Shampoos for Color-Trea…
• The 11 Very Best Manscaping Tools The 11 Very Best Manscaping Tools
• The 12 Very Best White T-shirts for Women The 12 Very Best White T-shirts for Wome…
• The 6 Very Best Standing Desks The 6 Very Best Standing Desks
• The 10 Very Best Weekend Bags The 10 Very Best Weekend Bags
• 16 of the Very Best Water Bottles 16 of the Very Best Water Bottles
• The 18 Very Best Bath Towels The 18 Very Best Bath Towels
• The 11 Very Best Shampoos The 11 Very Best Shampoos
• The 7 Very Best Baby Bottles The 7 Very Best Baby Bottles
• The 17 Very Best Work Bags for Women The 17 Very Best Work Bags for Women
• The Very Best Men’s Underwear The Very Best Men’s Underwear
• The 10 Very Best Silk Pajamas for Women The 10 Very Best Silk Pajamas for Women
• The 8 Very Best Panini Presses The 8 Very Best Panini Presses
• The Best Kitchen Shears and Scissors The Best Kitchen Shears and Scissors
• The 10 Very Best Cooling Pillows The 10 Very Best Cooling Pillows
• The 15 Best Women’s Raincoats The 15 Best Women’s Raincoats
• The 10 Very Best Electric Toothbrushes The 10 Very Best Electric Toothbrushes
• The 9 Very Best Plush Mattress Toppers The 9 Very Best Plush Mattress Toppers
• The 12 Very Best Knife Sets The 12 Very Best Knife Sets
• The 16 Very Best Desk Lamps The 16 Very Best Desk Lamps
• The 10 Very Best Conditioners The 10 Very Best Conditioners
• The 16 Very Best Body Lotions for Dry Skin The 16 Very Best Body Lotions for Dry Sk…
• The 30 Very Best Mascaras The 30 Very Best Mascaras
• The 9 Very Best Digital Picture Frames The 9 Very Best Digital Picture Frames
• The 18 Very Best Quilts The 18 Very Best Quilts
• The Very Best Workout Shoes for Women The Very Best Workout Shoes for Women
• The 15 Very Best Women’s Deodorants and Anti-perspirants The 15 Very Best Women’s Deodorants and…
• The 14 Very Best Rain Boots for Women The 14 Very Best Rain Boots for Women
• The 12 Very Best Natural Deodorants The 12 Very Best Natural Deodorants
• 23 of the Very Best Sex Toys for Couples 23 of the Very Best Sex Toys for Couples

The 10 Very Best Hard-Side Suitcases

Not all hard-shells are created equal..

In this article

Best hard-side suitcase overall.

• Best less-expensive
• Best lightweight
• Best aluminum
• Best for overpackers
• Best for families

As someone who has never managed to take a vacation without purchasing something bulky and delicate to take home with me (vinyl records, ceramics, bottles of wine — you name it, I’ve packed it), I much prefer hard-shell suitcases over soft-sided options. A hard-side suitcase will shield what’s inside of it from sudden drops or bangs, where a soft-side offers far less protection. Most of the experts I’ve spoken to agree: They say that as well as being more durable, hard-side suitcases are easier to wipe clean, slide from luggage racks, and rely on. They’re harder to repair than soft-side suitcases; a crack will be fatal — but that’s what warranties are for.

Hard-side suitcases are usually made from either polycarbonate plastic or a plastic called ABS (but there are also some made from old-fashioned aluminum). Polycarbonate plastic is more durable than ABS, so it tends to cost a little more, but alongside my fellow Strategist travel writer Rachael Griffiths I’ve tracked down and tested cases made from both types of plastic that are affordable and reliable . We also asked more than 20 travel professionals about the brands and styles they recommend. While you’re here, I’ve also written guides to the best weekend bags and the best travel pillows .

What we’re looking for

The material best for you will largely depend on the kind of trips you plan on taking. If your vacation involves long weekends at a friend’s beach house, you can get away with a lighter case made of less durable ABS. But if you’re plane- and train-hopping through Europe for the summer or spending several weeks trekking across Southeast Asia, you might want to invest in a sturdier case (like one made of polycarbonate) that can take a knock or two.

Longer trips need bigger suitcases. For ease of comparison, I’ve focused on carry-on options here, but most companies make these suitcases in larger sizes too. Size and weight allowances for carry-on cases will vary by airline, and most companies I looked into (including Alaska and Delta) measure the dimensions or weight of cases. You can read here to learn more about carry-on regulations.

Four spinner wheels glide in all directions and are my favorite. You can also buy suitcases with two wheels, but I find that the four spinner wheels glide so much easier — which is valuable when trying to reach an Airbnb on a cobbled street. So all the picks here have four wheels.

Pecorella says it’s important to do your homework when it comes to warranty because, once a hard-side case cracks, it’s pretty tough to repair. “This is what we tell our customers all the time: If you are a regular traveler, really look into the luggage brand’s warranty and see what they are covering and what they are not covering,” he says. All of the cases on this list have a lifetime warranty, which covers your case for life, or a limited lifetime warranty, which means your case is covered for a certain number of years.

Material: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Capacity: 47.9 L | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

Made from thick polycarbonate, I’m impressed with how sturdy yet lightweight Away’s ubiquitous suitcases are. I’m more than comfortable with packing breakables inside of one and am always confident that its handles and wheels will survive the perilous trip from the cargo hold to the luggage carousel. Cute as well as functional, Away suitcases are available in bright colors as well as neutral ones, and any scratches can be touched up with the brand’s eraser, which is included with each purchase. Away’s hard-side luggage is available in a few sizes; I’ve been testing the Bigger Carry-on, which is the most popular. That’s because it has a huge 50-liter capacity, but it still fits inside most overhead bins . (Though on some budget and most European airlines, it’s too big to class as a carry-on — you’d have to opt for the smaller size.)

Design-wise, Away’s definitely not trying to reinvent the wheel. Its luggage has all the features that you’d expect, but each feature has been executed perfectly. The 360-degree spinner wheels, for example, “make light work of the cobbled London street I regularly drag it along,” says Griffiths. And the telescopic handle is remarkably sturdy, which means you can use it to occasionally give up and drag your suitcase up and down stairs.

Numerous Strategist staffers have owned and used Away suitcases for years and years, including our editor Maxine Builder, who successfully took advantage of Away’s lifetime warranty and claimed a brand-new suitcase after the zipper on hers eventually broke. You can also just look around the airport for proof of durability: The brand switches up its colorways seasonally, but I frequently see long-discontinued shades on the baggage carousel or nestled overhead on flights.

Best (less-expensive) hard-side suitcase

Material: Polycarbonate | Capacity: 43 L | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited ten-year warranty

Usually, cheaper hard-side suitcases are made from ABS, a less durable plastic than the polycarbonate more expensive brands use. That’s why this case is such a rarity: It costs less than $200 (and is often on sale), and it’s made from the more durable polycarbonate. It also includes all of the features I’d expect from more expensive brands, like four 360-degree spinner wheels, TSA-approved locks, and a built-in USB port to use with a power bank. Travel blogger  Courtney Vondran  says that “it’s a great option for budget travelers or first-timer carry-on travelers who want nice pieces for more affordable prices.” So far, Vondran has taken her case with her on “road trips throughout the Midwest, a work trip to Egypt, a vacation to L.A. , a travel conference in Memphis, and a romantic getaway to Maine,” — and it’s been protected by the case’s limited ten-year warranty, which covers any major damages beyond reasonable wear and tear.

Best ABS hard-side suitcase

Material: ABS hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Capacity : 34 liters | Warranty: Limited warranty

A hard-side suitcase made from ABS rather than polycarbonate will always be the most affordable option. This Amazon Basics case is ideal for budget travelers, Griffiths says: “In my experience, it’s rare to find a case that costs under $100 that can compete with more expensive brands. I was surprised by how thick and sturdy the suitcase feels — it has a nice thud when you knock against the exterior.” As well as being thick, the exterior is  also scratch resistant , and the case also has a well-designed handle, smoothly rolling wheels, handles for comfort, and a built-in lock. The warranty is where this bag falls slightly short, though (and may explain the cheaper price tag): It’s only a three-year limited warranty that protects against defects in materials and workmanship.

Best lightweight hard-side suitcase

Material: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Capacity: 36 L | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Five-year manufacturer’s guarantee

The Rimowa Essential line of suitcases was a very close second to Away — more than ten people mentioned the brand in our survey of the best rolling luggage — but it lost out on the top spot due to its price. This suitcase is less durable than the classic aluminum version, but it shares a long history: Rimowa was the first brand to release a polycarbonate suitcase in 2000, so it has had more than 20 years to perfect its design. And it’s a great mix of durability and weight: This carry-on is more than a pound lighter than Away’s Bigger Carry-On.

Owners we spoke with say the wheels glide through the airport like a dream. There’s a manufacturer’s guarantee of five years if you remember to register your product when purchasing it (otherwise, it only lasts for two). Even in those five years, the warranty only applies “if the usability of the product is considerably adversely affected by a material or manufacturing fault already present at the time of hand-over (defect),” the brand says. Breaks caused by “abrasion, improper use, faulty operation, or externally occurring forces” like cracks, breaks, and scratches caused in flight are not covered. There’s a lot of fine print with Rimowa, so I suggest looking into it before you purchase.

Best aluminium hard-side suitcase

Material: Aluminum hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Capacity: 35 liters | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

Aluminum cases are as durable as a hard-side case gets — they’re less likely to crack and usually use clamps instead of a zip (which can fall apart at the seams, burst, or even be slashed open). Several travelers I chatted with recommended the Rimowa case in aluminum for this reason. However, it costs well over $1,000 and doesn’t really do much beyond what this Away — which is half the price — does. The aluminum Away carry-on is similar to the polycarbonate one in many respects, from its great-quality handles and wheels to its ample storage space. One major difference is the lock, though: It’s still TSA-approved, but has the lock code on more secure clamps rather than a zipper. Travel writer Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon , who travels every single week for work, calls it her “work horse.”

Best hard-side suitcase for overpackers

Material: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Capacity: 49 - 61 L | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

I’ve included this case for its simply ingenious weight indicator. If you’re an overpacker, it takes a lot of the stress out of checking a bag. The indicator is activated when you lift the case, and a red mark will appear if the luggage weighs over 50 pounds — saving you from an unexpected fee at the airport. (This is especially important as the bag has an additional zipper that allows it to expand a couple of inches for squeezing an extra potentially heavy few bits inside.) Other great features include a built-in laundry and shoe bag, as well as several other pockets that help keep things organized and a TSA-approved lock. “They’ve really thought of everything,” says travel blogger Ciara Johnson.

Best hard-side suitcase for underpackers

Material:  ABS hard-shell  | Capacity:  31 L  | Wheels: 360-degree spinner, removable | Warranty:  One-year limited

I first learned about this teeny-tiny hard-side case while researching the best  personal-item-size luggage . It came recommended by  Jasmine Anderson  and  Natasha Wilson , travel agents and co-hosts of the podcast  Travel Fly Sexy , as well as packing expert  Lauren Kelly .   They all praise its snap-off spinner wheels that can slide miraculously into the cruelest of budget-airline baggage sizers. (“Frontier lately is charging people for wheels and handles sticking out of the sizers,” says Kelly. “That means $100 extra for each leg of the trip.”) Measuring 18 by 14 by eight inches, the suitcase’s rectangular shape maximizes space and allows you to use packing cubes: “I have put a laptop and a week’s worth of clothes in the Take Off,” says Anderson. Kelly agrees that “it will give you the most packing space if your goal is a weeklong trip where you pack a personal item only.” The suitcase comes with a small bag to put its wheels in while your bag is being sized by airline staff; you can also just stash them in your pockets. And yes, it will slide right under the plane seat in front of you, which means no competing for overhead bin space.

Best hard-side suitcase set for families

Material: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Capacity: Three sizes | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Lifetime

For families, a suitcase set is the most economical way to go. Antler makes one of Strategist senior editor Ailbhe Malone’s favorites: She’s been traveling with them for two years. “The wheels are so smooth that I can pull the suitcase with just a finger if I need to (helpful when trying to carry a folded-up stroller and a baby in a sling through an airport),” says Malone. “The grip on the handle is extremely comfortable, and it pops up easily.” As for storage, the Clifton set is designed to slot inside each other (Russian doll style), meaning “it’s easy to store three suitcases in a small house.” Malone also appreciates the various interior pockets, and mesh compartment for dirty laundry. “I recently took the medium suitcase and the cabin suitcase on a trip from London to Hungary to Romania,” says Malone. “There was enough space for everything my family needed for a week (including the baby bed linens that our Airbnb didn’t provide).”

Other hard-side suitcases we’ve written about

Our Experts

• Stephanie Be, founder of Buena and TravelBreak • Kiana Brooks , associate merchandising manager at Dior • Hillary Eaton , food and travel writer • Kelly Farber, founder of KF Literary Scouting • Nicholas Gill , writer and photographer • Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon , travel writer • Summer Hull, director of travel content at The Points Guy • Ciara Johnson, travel blogger at HeyCiara • Brian Kelly, founder of The Points Guy • Isabelle Lieblein , travel writer • Ailbhe Malone, Strategist senior editor • Tom Marchant, co-founder of Black Tomato • Tony Pecorella, president and CEO of Modern Leather Goods • Laura Ratliff, senior editorial director at TripSavvy • Robin Reetz , writer • Lauren Ro , Strategist writer • Ellie Robinson , digital creator • Chris Schalkx, co-founder of Rice/Potato • Courtney Vondran , travel blogger • Oscar yi Hou , visual artist

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best socks for traveling , travel shoes , dopp kits , rolling luggage , weekend bags , travel necessities , and portable speakers . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

Every editorial product is independently selected. If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission.

• the strategist
• best in class

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Deal of the Day

Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.

• The 17 Very Best Protein Powders
• All the Best Walking Shoes We’ve Ever Written About
• All of the Best Mother’s Day Gift Ideas
• The 11 Very Best Shampoos
• The 8 Very Best Blow-dryer Brushes

Today’s Top Clicked

The 11 Best Hardside Luggage Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These practical and protective pieces have options for every traveler

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travelpro / Amazon

Representing the most modern choice when packing for your next trip, hardside luggage is loved by travelers everywhere for its fashionable aesthetic and easy upkeep. It also provides rigid protection for your valuables—especially today, when the materials and techniques used to produce hardside suitcases are better and more durable than ever. There are many sizes and styles to choose from, from simple, budget-friendly versions to more expensive ones with features ranging from integrated USB ports to optional monogramming. 

To help you narrow your search for the perfect travel companion, our experts tested dozens of the most popular hardside suitcases in the TripSavvy lab. We tested each one for durability, capacity, organization, maneuverability, and value.

Final Verdict

How we tested, other hardside luggage we tested, what to look for in hardside luggage bags, why trust tripsavvy, best overall, samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Rolls smoothly

Built to last

Beautiful, on-trend colors

Relatively few interior pockets 

The Samsonite Freeform Carry-On is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a one-stop hardside suitcase that meets cabin requirements but doesn’t compromise on packing space. We love that although it has relatively few bells and whistles, it fulfills its purpose perfectly with a streamlined polypropylene exterior that survived our durability tests virtually unscathed. It also looks great, with a ridged shell in a choice of colors from functional black to options such as Sky Blue or Amethyst Purple that are guaranteed to stand out on the luggage carousel. 

Samsonite claims that this suitcase offers increased packing space compared to earlier models, and indeed we could fit everything on our prescribed packing list without using the expansion feature. We liked that there was a separate section for shoes and a zippered delicates pocket, but we would have appreciated a section for dirty laundry. The bag has four double spinner wheels for 360-degree maneuverability, and we found that it glided perfectly at a range of different speeds (although it was easier to handle bumps on two wheels than four).

Other highlights include the push-button handle with its wide, comfortable grip and multiple height settings; a recessed, TSA-approved combination lock; and a built-in ID tag. 

Dimensions: 21.25 x 15.25 x 10 inches | Weight: 6.5 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

TripSavvy / Tamara Staples

Best Carry-On

Travelpro platinum elite carry-on spinner.

• Capacity 4.7 /5
• Design 4.5 /5

Very easy to maneuver 

Comfortable handle with a textured grip

Smart features

Relatively expensive

Not as spacious as some competitors

For those with a little extra room in their budget, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On is an intelligent option with a polycarbonate shell designed to flex upon impact and a textured finish that hides all scuffs and scratches. Indeed, it didn’t sustain any visible damage during our testing process. Aluminum corner guards, a genuine leather trim, and stylish colors ranging from Metallic Sand to Vintage Grey complete this suitcase’s high-end look. It’s also convenient, with USB-A and USB-C fast-charge ports and an external-access power bank pocket.

It opens clamshell-style and features two zippered divider panels and multiple mesh pockets. There’s even a water-resistant pouch for your toiletries. The only downside? We found we needed to use the 2-inch expansion to fit all our items in, which made the bag significantly larger and therefore harder to fit into the overhead compartment. Still, the smooth roll provided by Travelpro’s exclusive PrecisionGlide System (with self-aligning wheels and a four-stop handle) more than made up for it.

After a few months of testing, our only qualm with the suitcase is the rollers aren't the best at rolling true and we found them spinning off from side to side at times. But it's still an overall solid suitcase with all the features we were looking for in a hardside carry-on.

Dimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds | Wheels: 8 | Expandable: Yes

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Checked

Samsonite winfield 2 hardside.

• Maneuverability 4.5 /5

Shell bounces back in place upon impact

Easy, two-sided packing

Handles well over multiple surfaces

Surprisingly limited color choices 

This is the second suitcase from Samsonite, one of the best luggage brands on the market. We love the Samsonite Winfield 2 28-inch spinner for its no-nonsense functionality, fashion-forward aesthetic, and mid-range price. The polycarbonate shell is lightweight yet durable, and we were particularly impressed by the way dented corners popped easily back into shape during our testing process. The brush-stroke coloration should hide potential scuffs and scratches, while color choices range from Nordic Blue to Brushed Anthracite for a smart look that never goes out of style. 

We found the suitcase roomy and liked how it maintained its size and shape even when stuffed to capacity. The compression feature was another bonus, keeping clothes neatly in place—as was the full-zip interior divider, which allowed us to keep clean and dirty items separate. If you need extra space, there’s a handy expansion feature. Finally, we found that the multi-directional wheels allowed for smooth maneuverability over a range of terrains. We could easily pull the suitcase behind us or push it in front.

Dimensions: 31.4 x 20.4 x 13 inches | Weight: 11.13 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Best Budget, Carry On

Amazon basics hardside spinner.

Understated, polished design

Intuitive interior layout

Excellent handling

No TSA-approved lock

The only suitcase on this list with a price tag well under $100, the AmazonBasics 21-inch Spinner offers great value for money with a simple yet sleek aesthetic and an ABS plastic shell that surpassed all expectations during our drop and bat tests. The scratch-resistant finish helps the suitcase maintain its good looks for longer, while durable zippers protect the fully lined interior.

We could easily fit all of the items on our list without employing the expansion feature (which increases packing space by up to 15 percent). We appreciated the bag’s clever organization features, which include a divider, compression straps, and three zippered pockets. In terms of maneuverability, it has four double-spinner wheels and a sturdy telescoping handle. We were pleasantly surprised by how easily it glided, even on rougher terrain, over bumps, and around sharp turns.

Dimensions: 22 x 14.9 x 10 inches | Weight: 6.3 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Best Budget, Checked

Kenneth cole reaction hardside spinner.

 Amazon

Spacious, functional interior

Comes in a variety of attractive colors

Reinforced corners for added durability

Difficult to wheel over graveled surfaces

With a sturdy yet lightweight ABS shell, the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds 28-inch spinner makes the most of your hold luggage weight allowance. It’s also easy on your wallet, coming in cheaper than many carry-ons on this list. It has molded corner guards for increased impact resistance, which we proved with extensive drop and bat tests (from which it emerged with only a few superficial scuffs). The fully lined interior looks compact from the outside but is amazingly roomy.

Our tester estimated that they would be able to fit a month’s worth of clothes plus extras, and also appreciated how well organized the suitcase was with a large zippered pocket, compression straps, and a divider for two-sided packing. The lightweight trolley system—with its multi-directional wheels and push-button handle—gives the suitcase excellent maneuverability around tight turns. We found that it rolled smoothly over concrete and carpet and only experienced trouble on rough gravel. 

A few months into testing, the only noticeable issue we've seen is the outer surface is easily scuffed and has some worn spots. But everything else is fine and our testers report it still rolls and maneuvers very well.

Dimensions: 29.5 x 20.5 x 11.75 inches | Weight: 9.6 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: No

TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik

Best Capacity

Delsey paris hardside spinner.

• Maneuverability 3.5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

Extra roomy even before expansion

Solid maneuverability

Eye-catching jewel tones

Bare-bones internal organization

Planning an extended trip or a little bit prone to overpacking ? The 29-inch Delsey Paris Helium Aero spinner is for you. We loved its chic look, with a metallic polycarbonate shell in a range of rich colors. The ridged exterior should protect the bag from rough handling, and it stood up well to our tests, with only minor scuffing visible afterward. Most of all, we loved how spacious the suitcase was, with an expandable clamshell interior that had space to spare once we packed everything on our list. 

The interior structure is minimal, with two pockets, a zippered divider, and a set of compression straps; however, packing cubes can help overcome this potential downside. The suitcase has four double-spinner wheels and a two-stop telescoping handle. We found it capable of navigating bumps and easy to push or pull on concrete and carpet, although gravel proved a little more challenging. Other features include a TSA-approved lock and a limited 10-year warranty. Our testers continue to love how lightweight this suitcase is.

Dimensions: 31.75 x 20 x 12 inches | Weight: 12.5 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Best Organization

Away the bigger carry-on flex.

• Durability 4 /5

Trendy, modern aesthetic

Smart and functional interior

Easy to maneuver

With its textured polycarbonate shell, leather details, and colors ranging from brilliant green or navy to quirky lavender, The Bigger Carry-On Flex from Away is a fashionable choice. It’s also ideal for the super organized, with several different compartments, an internal compression system that makes it easy to pack bulky items, and a hidden laundry bag. The lining is also removable and washable, helping your luggage to look brand new for longer. If you run out of space, the suitcase expands by 2.25 inches. 

It’s also durable, with only a few minor scuffs sustained during our drop tests. We appreciate that the suitcase comes with a sponge to remove these marks. Finally, it performed well over various surfaces, gliding smoothly on two or four wheels and turning easily (helpful in navigating crowded airports). Added benefits include an underside grab handle, an integrated TSA-approved lock, and a 100-day free trial to make sure you’re satisfied. 

A few months into testing, our testers call this suitcase lightweight, roomy, durable, and waterproof. “This will probably be the last carry-on I ever need,” a tester said.

Dimensions: 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 8.55 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Best for Business Travel

Béis the carry-on roller.

• Durability 2.5 /5

Equally attractive and durable design

Superb interior layout

Good for overpackers

No bright or jewel tones available

The Carry-On Roller from Béis gives the frequent business traveler the perfect combination of style and function. Designed to fit in any overhead compartment, it also expands by 2 inches whenever you need more space. Its stain-resistant virgin polycarbonate shell looks good (whether you opt for Beige, Maple, or Atlas Pink) and emerged from our extensive durability tests with just one minor scratch. The suitcase features an integrated TSA lock and a weight indicator, so you’re never left unpacking in the terminal again. 

We particularly loved the internal organization, which includes two divider panels with multiple zippered pockets. There’s also a separate pouch set for your shoes and dirty laundry. Our tester felt confident that no matter how roughly the bag was handled, their belongings would arrive in the same condition. The cushioned silicone handle was another highlight (making those airport miles a little less tiring), while the 360-degree spinner wheels handled bumps, tight corners, and carpet well. 

We continue to love the capacity of this suitcase but have had issues with the middle level of the telescoping handle staying in place.

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 8.36 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Best Expandable

Samsonite outline pro carry-on spinner.

Samsonite 

Capacious, functional interior

Charges your devices

Doesn't handle carpet as well as others

Looking for a contemporary carry-on that expands to provide additional capacity when needed? Consider the chic Samsonite Outline Pro, with a lightweight polypropylene shell that survived our testing process without sustaining a single scratch or dent. The Recyclex-lined interior expands at the pull of a zipper—although we found we didn’t need this feature to fit everything on our packing list. We loved how well-organized the suitcase is, with a divider panel that doubles as a compression system and multiple zippered pockets. 

It also has several thoughtful extras, including a USB charge port, a TSA-approved lock, and handles treated with an antimicrobial additive. The main trolley handle is also molded for comfort and can be adjusted to suit different heights. The only downside we experienced was testing the suitcase on the carpet, where we felt reduced maneuverability (around corners especially). Overall, the bag performed better on two wheels than on four. 

Dimensions: 23 × 15 × 10 inches | Weight: 6.39 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Spinner

• Value 4.5 /5

Supports different packing styles

Glides beautifully even over rough terrain

Works for a couple

Relatively expensive 

About as big as airlines will allow, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In Spinner is for extended trips or family vacations on a budget . It offers a vast amount of space—so much so that we could easily fit everything on our packing list, even before using the 2-inch expansion feature. Despite fitting so much, it was easy to keep everything organized with the help of zippered divider panels, adjustable compression straps, and multiple accessory pockets, including a waterproof one for your toiletries. We also loved how smooth the zippers were.

As befits its large size, the suitcase is also strong, with a 100 percent polycarbonate shell that flexes on impact—and survived our tests without a single dent. Travelpro’s patented PrecisionGlide System takes the strain off your arm and shoulder, using eight self-aligning spinner wheels and a sturdy four-stop handle to deliver flawless maneuverability. We were incredibly impressed with how well it handled, rolling like a dream over bumps, smoothly over carpet, and even handling gravel. 

Dimensions: 30 x 18 x 13.5 inches | Weight: 12.3 pounds | Wheels: 8 | Expandable: Yes

Best Durability

Roam the check-in.

• Capacity 4 /5

Option to personalize color combination

Keeps your belongings dry

Rolls smoothly over uneven terrain

The most expensive option on this list

The Check-In from Roam is undoubtedly an investment—but its superior durability justifies its higher price tag. Even after repeated drop and bat tests, we couldn’t see any signs of damage on its sturdy polycarbonate shell, while extra-strength, water-repellent zippers make this suitcase truly weatherproof. Every feature meets the same high-quality standards, from the ball-bearing wheels to the aircraft-grade, four-stop aluminum handle. When combined, we found these features made for absolute ease of movement, even on gravel. 

Durability aside, this suitcase also stands out because you can choose the colors of everything from the front and back shell to the zippers, bindings, wheels, and more. We found this option for customization irresistible, but if you prefer to leave the aesthetics to the experts, there are also pre-designed colorways from which to choose. You can also opt to make the bag expandable. Either way, the interior is lined with 100 percent recycled fabric and includes a compression system with multiple dividers, straps, and zippered pockets. 

After taking it on a few trips, our testers reported loving how expandable and easy to move the suitcase is and that it's easy to find on the conveyor belt after checking it onto a plane.

Dimensions: 26 x 17.5 x 10 inches | Weight: 9.3 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Optional

Our tests revealed a winner in the Samsonite Freeform Carry-On , chosen for its impressive combination of performance and affordability. If you're looking for a checked bag that won't break the bank, go for the Kenneth Cole Out of Bounds Spinner .

All of the suitcases considered for this list underwent a stringent testing process in our laboratory. First, we weighed each one. Next, we packed each suitcase with a prescribed list of items intended to replicate what one might take on a seven-day fall sightseeing trip (for checked luggage) or a four-day trip (carry-on luggage). Our experts evaluated the bag’s capacity and organization features during this step. Next, we rolled at varying speeds through an obstacle course of cones and bumps to simulate navigating a busy airport. 

We also rated maneuverability by rolling the suitcases on three different terrains: concrete, carpet, and gravel. We placed carry-on bags into a simulated overhead bin to check the fit and the placement and strength of grab handles. Finally, all bags were subjected to repeated drop and bat tests, targeting potential weak spots each time and noting any exterior or interior damage. Based on these tests, bags were scored from 1 to 5 for capacity, organization, maneuverability, durability, and value. These scores determined our category winners. 

Tripsavvy / Vicky Wasik

Arlo Skye The Zipper Check-In Large : Our testers loved this case thanks to its generous capacity, stellar maneuverability, and high-end aesthetic. It proved very durable, though it did sustain some cosmetic damage during our tests, and the price seems steep for its slightly above-average performance.

BRIC's Bellagio V2.0 Carry-On Spinner Trunk : The V2.0 Spinner Trunk impressed us with its attractive and functional design and top-notch durability. However, our tester wasn't able to fit the toiletries from our pack list. This is a quality case and that is reflected in the price.

Briggs & Riley Sympatico Large Expandable Spinner : Capacity and durability were the highlights of the Sympatico, which easily fit a week's worth of clothing and multiple pairs of shoes before being expanded. We wondered how durable the handle would be over time and had to use some muscle to wheel the suitcase over the carpeted floor.

July Checked Bag : Stylish and well-designed with thoughtful touches such as an internal compression pad and a cloth bag to protect it during delivery, this medium-sized option has a lot going for it. Unfortunately, our bat test left numerous scuffs on the light-pink model we tested, and it had difficulty rolling on uneven terrain.

Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus : The design, capacity, and maneuverability of the Aviator were all top-notch, and our tester loved that everything on our list fit with room to spare. It did show some scuff marks and blemishes, and though we think this is a great value, it isn't the cheapest carry-on on the market.

Tumi 19 Degree Continental Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On : We liked the unique look of this Tumi carry-on the most, as well as its capacity and design. The low points include the massive dent it sustained on impact, though it handled the drop test better. For its high-end price, we'd like to see better durability.

When choosing a hardside suitcase, it’s important to consider how much the empty bag weighs. Overly heavy luggage puts unnecessary strain on your arms, shoulders, and back when pulling it through the airport or lifting it in and out of your trunk. It also affects how much you can pack before exceeding airline weight allowances . In the past, heavy materials were synonymous with sturdy ones, but today, hardside shells made from lightweight polycarbonate, polypropylene, or ABS plastic offer outstanding durability without adding excess pounds to your luggage scale. 

Increasingly, airlines charge for the privilege of checking luggage into the hold. As such, it’s becoming popular to limit oneself to a carry-on for all but the longest trips. Carry-on size restrictions vary from carrier to carrier, but as a general rule, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) suggests that suitcases should not be more than 22 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. If you’re looking for a checked bag, be aware that the IATA guideline says it should not have a linear length (height + width + length) of more than 62 inches. 

Hardside luggage can feature several different materials, all of which have varying levels of strength and lightness. The most frequently encountered are polycarbonate and ABS plastic, with polycarbonate being the slightly heavier but more durable option. This is because it flexes upon impact and then pops back into place—making it less susceptible to cracks and dents. ABS is generally more affordable, however. Polypropylene is sometimes used in high-end suitcases for its superior lightness (it’s the lightest hardside material out there). 

Hardside suitcases can be pretty basic—a shell with an interior pocket or two, wheels, and a handle. They can also be much more high-tech, with possible features ranging from integrated TSA-approved locks and weight indicators to fast-charge USB ports (the latter are only available for carry-ons due to airline regulations). Which of these are worth spending money on is up to you. However, quality spinner wheels, a handle with a cushioned grip and adjustable height settings, and the option for expansion are all ones we think would make traveling considerably easier. 

Some people prefer softside suitcases because they are more flexible and therefore more forgiving if you have awkwardly shaped items to pack or tend to overstuff your luggage. They won’t dent or crack and are more durable for adventure travel. However, the construction of hardside cases has improved so much in recent years that they are now the top choice for many travelers. Their rigid shell protects contents from airline damage and potential tampering, they’re easy to wipe clean, and they typically offer a greater range of colors and styles. 

Most hardside suitcases cost quite a bit, so it makes sense to take steps to protect them. Choosing a good bag in the first place is essential—quality materials and construction are inevitably best at withstanding rough handling. Be careful not to overpack or pack so that sharp or pointed objects come into direct contact with the shell since this will create weak points. You can also purchase a PVC cover to protect your bag from scratches and spills or have it plastic-wrapped at the airport before each flight. Finally, a TSA-approved lock allows airport officials to open your suitcase without damaging it. 

You should always check individual manufacturers' guidelines before cleaning your hardside suitcase, as best practices may differ. Generally speaking, however, you can remove most dirt, stains, and superficial scuffs with a soft cloth or sponge and a little warm, soapy water. If you use soap, be sure to clean it a second time with plain water to avoid leaving any residue behind. Your suitcase should always be completely dry before being packed and stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert and regularly contributes articles related to adventure and family travel. From student days spent backpacking around North and Central America to more recent trips around Africa and Europe with small children in tow, she has plenty of experience with what makes a suitcase great—or not so great.

The 12 Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Carry-on Luggage for Men of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Luggage Sets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Checked Luggage Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Travel Toiletry Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Lightweight Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 6 Best Small Coolers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 10 Best Delsey Luggage Items of 2024

The 9 Best Rolling Duffels of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Samsonite Luggage Items of 2024

The 9 Best Travel Pillows of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Travelpro Luggage Items of 2024

The 7 Best Travel Toiletry Bottles of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The Best From Our Tests: A Review of Samsonite's Freeform Hardside Spinner

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

• Backchannel
• Newsletters
• WIRED Insider
• WIRED Consulting

Adrienne So Gear Team

The Best Travel Bags for Wherever You’re Headed

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

Best Carry-On for Most People Travelpro Maxlite 5 Read more

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On Away Carry-On Read more

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On Yeti Crossroads 35L Read more

Best Bag for a Lifetime Briggs & Riley Baseline CX Read more

Whew! You've made it all the way across the globe. But have your toothbrush, pajamas, and running shoes made it, too? If you're a frequent traveler, it's easy to obsess over the logistics of getting your stuff clean, organized, and in good working condition upon arrival. Paying for a decent travel bag and a few useful accessories means buying a little peace of mind, especially when a few yards of zippers and some nylon are the only barriers between your precious belongings and the belly of an airliner.

Whether you're slinging a duffel into a car trunk for a weekend trip or packing for a whirlwind jaunt across Asia, we've got you covered. Need a bag for your passport or groceries? Don't forget to check out our other guides, like the Best Laptop Backpacks and the Best Recycled Bags , for more picks.

Updated April 2024: We reorganized this guide and added new picks, such as the Yeti Crossroads, Tom Bihn Aeronaut and Trinity, the Frame Carry-On Max, the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, the Camelbak A.T.P. 20, the Calpak Luka Duffel, and the Rux 70. We also updated the information on sizing and checked links and prices.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED. com. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Best Carry-On for Most People

Look around any airport—if you see flight attendants or pilots, they will probably be rolling around a Travelpro suitcase. We like Travelpros because you get a lot of bang for your buck. They're durable, light, and not too expensive.

For only a little over $100, the Maxlite 5 is one of the more affordable Travelpro suitcases, and at 5.4 pounds, it's very light! The exterior toiletry pocket is a nice touch for when you go through security and need to take out your liquids, and the zippers are also quite strong and don't tend to get stuck. The wheels also rolled nicely on both the spinner and roll-aboard versions. Reviewer Matt Jancer did note that the aluminum handle extensions did sometimes stick and the main grab handle on the bag is only single-stitched, which may cause durability issues farther down the line. However, he has seen no issues yet. This probably the best bag you can get in the $100 to $150 price range.

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On

Away's business practices may have raised some eyebrows , but there's no denying that this company changed the travel market entirely. It has increased in price since we first tested it, but multiple WIRED staffers still use the classic Away hard-shell carry-on ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) as their travel suitcase.

Hard-shell suitcases tend to be heavier. There's also not as much give in the case, so you may find it hard to squeeze in more items than in a soft-shell bag, bu they look a lot sleeker than their soft-shell counterparts and protect fragile items better. The Away weighs 7.5 pounds, which is pretty standard for a hard-shell carry-on. When I tested it, I liked that it had multiple height settings and that the polycarbonate shell wiped clean and stayed mostly scuff-free (it helped that my tester was in the darker navy color). Away's suitcases also come with a built-in TSA-approved combination lock, four spinner wheels capable of rotating 360 degrees, and an included laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate from the rest of your stuff. The handle did feel a bit wobbly, though.

★ Alternatives: So many companies now offer a direct-to-consumer, stylish, hard-shell carry-on similar to the Away's. We've tried ones by Monos ($255) and July ($295) . Besides price, the differences are mostly negligible. I like July's aluminum bumpers, but they do add weight. The Monos's handle rolls out more smoothly, but the July's pebbled surface doesn't show scuffs as badly. Both have survived multiple cross-country trips, being checked as baggage, and being ridden on by two small children with no damage.

Paravel also offers an Aviator carry-on ($395) that touts itself as the world's first carbon-neutral carry-on; it has an interior lining made of recycled plastic bottles, a telescoping handle made of recycled aluminum, and vegan leather trim to help it stand out from all the plain black bags at the airport. Product reviewer Jaina Grey fell in love with its roomy interior and durable, anti-scuff hard-shell exterior.

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On

Yeti's coolers and cups are famous for being bomb-proof. The company recently launched a luggage line that's similarly overbuilt. The Yeti Crossroads 35L is a 22-inch roller bag that's carry-on size for most major airlines. It weighs 7.7 pounds, on par with soft-sided competitors of the same size.

I recently spent a week dragging the Crossroads up and down grimy subway station escalators, thumping it across cobblestones, and scrunching it into overfull overhead bins during a trip to London, Paris, and Brussels. The blue 700D nylon on the front and sides looks just as fresh as it did out of the box while the molded polycarbonate shell on the back has a few well-earned battle scratches. The two extra-large fixed wheels are rolling as smoothly as ever and hopped up curbs so well that I grew to favor them over smaller spinner wheels. The Crossroads has a half-dozen well-placed pockets and sturdy zippers that didn't give me any anxiety even as I tugged them hard while smooshing down to fit souvenirs into a carry-on with 8 days of clothing. —Martin Cizmar

Best Bag for a Lifetime

Do you only want to buy one suitcase and never think about it, ever again? Briggs & Riley is one of the few companies with a lifetime unlimited warranty. I bought a Briggs & Riley carry-on as my first and only post-college purchase. Right now, it has lasted over 20 years. Periodically, I bring it into the one Briggs & Riley-approved dealership in my town to get a zipper pull put back on, and it's fixed for free in a few days. Its components are top-of-the-line. The face fabric is a heavy-duty ballistic nylon that’s water-repellent and abrasion-resistant. After having been dragged all over the globe, from the Philippines to Turkey to Iceland, the gleaming red is just as bright.

The low-profile wheels nor handles have never broken. The grab handles are also luxuriously smooth and padded, and there's an interior folding garment bag for my husband's suits. The only downside is that at 9.3 pounds, it’s pretty heavy.

★ Alternatives: If you need an absolutely bomber-tough rolling suitcase and don't mind its 9.6-pound weight, the Pro Front-Access Carry ($799) will stand up to more abuse than most rolling bags, with its aluminum frame and 70-percent-recycled polycarbonate body. WIRED reviewer Chris Haslam says it's his favorite rolling bag in years. Jancer also likes Travelpro's Platinum Elite carry-on ($315) , which he calls one of the most high-end polycarbonate bags on the market.

Matt Jancer

David Nield

Aarian Marshall

Boone Ashworth

Best Backpack

When I reviewed the Cotopaxi Allpa in 2018 ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ), it had only recently launched. Now, a half-dozen years later, it is one of the most popular travel backpacks that I see online and in airports all over the world. It's a combination of a camping backpack, a suitcase, and a soft, frameless duffel. You can splay it open like a sandwich to pack it easily; access items through a side zip; put it on your backpack and secure its weight with a sternum strap; or squash or stomp it into any overhead compartment or corner of your car trunk. The use case for this bag is extremely specific—the same people who are bopping around Thailand for several weeks in one backpack are not the same people trying to look professional at a work conference. But it is sturdy and comfortable.

★ Alternative: I took the Ekster Packable Duffel ($250) on several weekend trips this spring, and found that it more than upheld its claims of being built for “smoother journeys, on and off the grid.” This travel bag converts from a backpack to a duffel, with two separate compartments that also splay open for easier packing. The 600-denier exterior and water-resistant zippers are so sturdy that when we ran out of space in the car, we lashed it to the roof rack with surf straps and drove for hours in the rain. It, and its contents, remained pristine.

Best Convertible Bag

Every serious traveler knows the name of Seattle-based Tom Bihn, manufacturer of bomber bags that will last you a lifetime. The Aeronaut 45 is the classic Tom Bihn convertible carry-on, which the size of the maximum allowable carryon bag on a plane.

You get everything from a Tom Bihn bag that you pay for. It’s made of incredibly sturdy 1050 denier ballistic nylon with bombproof YKK zippers and has both hidden backpack straps and an extremely comfortable cross-body strap. This is commerce director Martin Cizmar's bag, and he's tossed it around and lugged down rough streets and through crowds where roller bags are a liability. He owns two and the first lasted for more than a decade. This is the bag that both and I would only fly with if we didn't have to constantly test other bags.

Best Personal Item

Some airlines are not content with charging you extra for checking a bag and now charge you for overhead bin space . The Tom Bihn Trinity ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) addresses that problem by providing a space for you to pack everything you need while still fitting underneath the seat in front of you. As the name suggests, it has three main compartments and three ways to carry—either as a briefcase with padded grab handles, a backpack, or as a shoulder bag with two attachment points.

It has three main compartments which can be arranged to your liking; for example, on one of the side compartments, you can zip a water bottle holder into place or unzip it for more room. It wasn't quite as versatile as I expected; I found that I prefer a small duffel with one main compartment that I can organize as I like. However, it does fit under the seat in front of me, even with clothes, laptop, and four (four!) hardcover books that I somehow stuffed inside it.

Best Work Bag

I've been traveling a lot for work and for family reasons in the past few months, and the bag I prefer for my personal item is the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, which is the larger version of the brand's Nouvelle purse ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). It comes in a medium and a large version; the medium is adequate as an everyday bag, but the large turns it into a versatile work/travel bag. It’s low-profile and has both smooth leather grab handles as well as a shoulder strap. I have kicked it under plane seats and around airports, and the nylon doesn't show any damage. There's a hidden separate compartment if you spill water on yourself, and it has sturdy feet so you can put it on an airplane bathroom counter and dig for your makeup without it falling over or getting the bottom of the bag too disgusting. The toothed zippers do tend to crinkle and snatch at your knuckles when the bag gets overstuffed, but I suppose you could always, uh, avoid overstuffing your bag.

★ Alternatives: We have plenty of recommendations in our guide to the Best Laptop Totes , but we love Lo & Sons. The Catalina Supreme Tote ($338) is also great for weekend trips. Again, there's also a bottom compartment for a pair of shoes, or anything else you need to keep separate.

The Best Hiking Daypack

The Camelbak A.T.P. is so useful that I’m always startled to realize it only has a 20-liter capacity. I have it in the 100 percent recycled white color, which saves water and only emits half the greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating the dying process. It’s a panel loader, which means you can unzip the top and see exactly where everything goes, like a duffel. This is convenient when packing for trips—I was able to fit clothes, a Dopp kit, and electronics for an overnight trip. (I know these types of zippers fail more often than top loaders, but it does make it easier to arrange and sort items near the bottom of the pack.)

I particularly like how narrow it is. It fits my back and goes under airplane seats that even my children’s backpacks can’t. The bottle pocket has a zipper that makes it expandable so it can fit a little coffee thermos or my giant Yeti water bottle . Exterior compression straps also help squeeze my clothes even smaller. This is a great backpack if you want something that looks sleek enough for a work bag but is durable enough to take on a weekend trip to Yosemite.

★ Alternative: I also love the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack ($149) . This 25-liter bag is the perfect combination work/adventure bag. The suspended 15-inch laptop pocket clips shut, and the rest of the pockets are thoughtfully placed. It’s extremely light (a little over a pound) and is made from 100 percent recycled ripstop fabric.

Best Duffel Bag

The Big Haul ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is our favorite duffel because it hits the right balance of robust build materials and pockets without being too heavy to lug around all day. The standout feature of the Big Haul series, which comes in 28-liter to 120-liter options, is the ability to easily reposition the carrying straps, which feature plastic fishhook-style ends that slip into fabric loops. You can connect one strap end-to-end or double up on two straps in an H pattern for more stability with heavy loads. Adding and removing the straps isn't super fast, but it's not difficult, either, and six low-profile loops seems less intrusive than six rattling plastic buckles.

Two small interior pockets and an exterior pocket keep small things organized, and its water-resistant fabric is thick and tough without being stiff. All the sewing around the grab handles feels very robust too. Padded backpack straps hide away under a padded pocket on the top of the bag. This means that when you sling the Big Haul over your shoulders to give your arms a rest, your back is against the relatively clean top of the duffel, rather than a wet, dirty bottom side that's been set down on the ground. The current iteration of the Big Haul is also made with recycled nylon. What's not to love? —Matt Jancer

★ Alternative: For slightly more money, the classic duffel in this category is the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel ($159) , which also comes in a variety of colorways and sizes. You can either carry it by the grab handles or with the shoulder straps, and it's made from 100 percent recycled polyester with a TPU-film laminate. I (Adrienne) have had the 40-liter version for almost 15 years now and the laminate has yet to peel. It also fits as a carry-on on flights.

The Best Expedition Bag

If you like outdoor sports, you probably need a good expedition bag—that is, a huge, burly duffel that you can just throw all your pointy ice axes, trekking poles, or camp chairs into that you can take anywhere and everywhere. Reviewer Matt Jancer's expedition bag of choice is the Red Oxx PR5. He's used it for whitewater paddling trips and to lug mountain climbing equipment from coast to coast without a single frayed thread. Everything about Red Oxx is overbuilt. The zippers are huge, its thick pieces of nylon webbing are robustly sewn, and chunky metal rings hang the detachable carrying strap. All that said, it's not abominably heavy. At 3.4 pounds it's still lighter than many wheeled bags.

★ Alternative: If you've ever gone to a popular outdoor destination, like Yosemite or Everest, you've probably seen stacks of North Face Base Camp duffels . This is the quintessential expedition bag. My own personal bag is the OnSight Tarmac EPO , but the company no longer exists; I also have a Mountain Hardware duffel ($180) and after 20 years, the coating has finally started to peel.

Best for Camping

We love everything from Rux; I'm currently testing the waterproof adventure tote ($150) and I use it for everything from my climbing gear, to picnic gear, to bringing my kids' roller skates and soccer balls to the park. I have also leaked an entire water bottle in it and it stayed contained and out of the bottom of my car.

But for camping (or any outdoor pursuit, really), what you need is a Rux storage system , which, as the artist and filmmaker Van Neistat puts it, will help you kit your shit . It holds its frame shape, which means you can stack and organize inside of it just like a box, but it folds down like a bag for easy storage once you're at your destination. It's also light and waterproof and comes with a wide array of accessories . This is an upgrade for everyone who currently sorts their camping, climbing, or snowboarding gear in a series of $5 plastic totes and stacks them in their trunk.

The Best Aluminum Suitcase

Perhaps you've seen those Instagram-friendly, shiny aluminum suitcases and wonder whether it's worth the investment. Aluminum is extremely durable and can be machined with precision. That means it will protect your belongings better, and you can close them with latches instead of zippers. Your suitcase will last longer and be more secure— zippers are pretty easy to break into —and generally have fewer points of failure.

In my opinion, the cost-benefit analysis generally weighs against them. Aluminum suitcases are usually heavier and won't flex as much if you have overpacking tendencies, and I find them painfully conspicuous. Any suitcase with a decent warranty policy will painlessly cover any repairs. If you must have one, we like Arlo Skye's the Frame. Arlo Skye was founded by alumni from Louis Vuitton and Tumi, and reviewer Matt Jancer says that everything about the Frame screams robust quality, from the leather grab handles to the combination-lock latches. It also comes with a removable battery bank and has a few more liters of carrying capacity than the similarly-sized Away. The main disadvantage is that the interior organization is a bit lacking.

★ Alternative: Do you want the benefits of an aluminum suitcase without the drawbacks? You might want to consider Monos's Hybrid Carry-On ($325) . You won't fool anyone into thinking you've shelled out for a 100 percent aluminum suitcase, but Jancer notes that it's only a pound or so heavier than the competition and the aluminum frame offered better protection than any 100 percent polycarbonate suitcase that he tried.

A Good Emergency Go Bag

To be clear, any bag here could be considered a go-bag—even a grocery bag works when you have to leave the house imminently. But reviewer Nena Farrell used Calpak's duffel for an emergency surgery, and she is kicking herself for not getting it sooner. It was big enough for everything from makeup bags and extra outfits to a massive book and Nintendo Switch, and was comfortable to carry thanks to the large straps.

The shoe compartment was big enough for sandals and slides, but not big enough for shoes with an ankle. It was also a great place to stash haphazard Ziplocs of emergency toiletries and medications. There are some side pockets inside too, plus an exterior side pocket and a pass-through panel to place it on top of your luggage. It was a great hospital companion, but Farrell can't wait to take the Luka somewhere a little more fun.

Other Bags We Like

Not every good product can snag a best-in-category title, but there are several more bags we've tested that get our thumbs-up.

Osprey Ozone 40L for $280 : At 4.47 pounds, Osprey claims this bag is the lightest carry-on suitcase. It's also made from 400D recycled bluesign-approved nylon and is treated with DWR. This bag is light enough to easily hoist above my head and has also been checked multiple times.

Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel for $140 : This duffel weighs a scant 2.7 pounds, but the water-resistant fabric and extraordinarily beefy (though plastic) buckles make it a solid bag for adventuring. There's an exterior pocket for storing shoes or dirty clothes. The backpack straps don't tuck away for storage—you have to unclip them—but might be the most well-padded, comfortable straps I've encountered on a duffel. Exterior daisy chains and an interior zippered pocket round out the impressive features list.

Land's End Waxed Canvas Duffel for $180 : Most duffel bags these days are made of nylon, and while it's tough to call a material that's been popular since the 1940s “modern,” nylon bags don't have the old-school charm that this waxed canvas bag does.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L for $149 : This bag weighs 1 pound, 13 ounces, which is only slightly heavier than air. It also has backpack straps that stow away in a front pocket.

Skyway Epic Carry-On for $160 : At 7.1 pounds, the Epic is an average weight. The handle is a wee bit more finicky than our top pick, and the Travelpro's wheels glide a little more nicely. Still, the Epic is a solid choice.

Target Signature Weekender Bag for $81 : Looking like a cross between a duffel and a handbag, the Weekender has a structure that product reviewer Louryn Strampe says can become overfilled, so keep that in mind if you plan to bring it onto a plane as a carry-on. She appreciates its durability and the many internal pockets for organization, though, and its rather long five-year warranty.

Solgaard Carry-On Closet Plus for $345 : It's a tiny bit over what most airlines list as the maximum dimensions, but the difference is so small that it's accepted 95 percent of the time. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe praises its optional clip-in closet clothing organizer, which makes for efficient packing. The built-in TSA lock is easy to use, and there's an internal power-bank pocket. This suitcase is included in our Favorite Recycled Products guide.

Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On for $200 : This is a hard-side, four-wheeled spinner carry-on made from an outer shell of durable polypropylene. Standout features include an interior fabric made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles and a “WetPak” storage pocket for keeping damp items separated from the rest of your luggage.

Adidas Defender Duffel for $40 : If you're looking for an inexpensive duffel that'll handle some light-duty traveling, this is a good way to save $100. The fabric is significantly thinner and less sturdy than that of other duffels in this guide, and it lacks backpack straps. But for taking on the train or tossing into a car trunk, it'll do the trick.

Bags We Don’t Like

Some bags just aren't worth the asking price, especially with so many good alternatives at all price points.

Peugeot Voyages Carry-On Spinner for $595 : What a price tag for a plastic-case suitcase. You can see where Peugeot tried to imbue the Voyages with some luxury, such as the metal riveting and built-in travel locks, but the case felt no more solid than a budget hard-sided bag, and the USB charging port felt cheap, like an outlet you'd find built into a seat in an airport terminal.

Eagle Creek Caldera Convertible International Carry-On for $469 : At 6 pounds, 2 ounces, this bag is a bit heavy. There's a zip-off 19-liter backpack that you can separate from the rest of the 37-liter bag, but when they're zipped together, the combined size doesn't meet carry-on restrictions.

Ebags CTS Carry-On Spinner for $200 : This one wasn't awful, but there are much better options for the money. Its hard plastic sides felt more brittle than the hard-sided plastic Away suitcases. The handle rattles a lot and it didn't roll quite as smoothly as other bags.

A Few Travel Accessories

Once you've got your bag, you'll want to pack it with a few more useful items:

Apple AirTag for $24 : If you have an iPhone, it's one of the best ways to keep a digital eye on your bags. Drop an AirTag into an interior pocket to make sure you and your luggage are reunited at your destination. Don't have an iPhone? We suggest the Chipolo in our guide to the Best Bluetooth Trackers .

Eagle Creek Specter Pack-It Cubes Three-Pack for $35 keep everything inside your bags organized by allowing you to separate it into different cubes, so you won't ever have to hunt through seven pairs of socks to find your bathing suit again.

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case for $75 : Calpak’s viral clear cases come in three sizes and a ton of colors for the edge trims. Reviewer Nena Farrell loved the small size for my gym bag and traveling with a smaller carry-on bag, while the medium was a great size for my daily makeup or larger suitcases.

Troubadour Buddy 2.0 Tech Case for $75 : You probably need a case to organize your spare charging cables and power banks. I've been testing this compact, waterproof, and recycled bag that fits neatly into my personal item.

UrPower Portable Steamer for $24 beats a travel iron because it's far lighter and you don't need to hunt down an ironing board at your hotel. WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano and I both have been using UrPowers for years. For a tiny thing, it's powerful and effective at steaming practically anything. You just need to refill it often.

Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale for $15 is handy when you're packing a heavy bag for an upcoming trip. Use it to weigh your luggage and make sure it's within the weight limits. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even American airlines will be unforgiving about weight for checked bags.

InCase MacBook Sleeves for $50 will keep your laptop from bearing the damage caused by airport security lines. Travel through an airport without a case and it's only a matter of time before a bare laptop or tablet picks up nasty scratches and dents. Check our guide to the Best MacBook Accessories for more.

How to Pick the Right Size Bag

Every airline sets its own dimensional requirements for carry-on baggage, so if you want to be safe, you should check your airline's requirements before packing. But broadly, they're split into two categories: domestic and international.

Domestic flights by US airlines (and a few others) have standardized on 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

International carry-on bag sizes tend to be about 21 inches tall and a bit narrower, but they're all over the place. It's tough, because many international airlines will measure your bags at the airport and reject anything even slightly bigger than the allowed size. If you fly outside the US a lot, you may as well buy a bag sized for international flights.

You'll also want to check each airline's weight limits. They vary wildly, but some international airlines restrict you to 15 or 20 pounds, including the weight of the bag itself. For example, there are some East Asian airlines that limit carry-on bags to 11 pounds. Once you subtract 6 or more pounds for the bag, you're not left with much wiggle room to put stuff inside.

When to Remove Battery Banks

Battery banks, also known as power banks, are a travel must-have. Whether you're using a tablet to watch movies on your flight or relying on your phone to coordinate rideshares, hotel check-in, and handle your boarding passes, you've got to keep those devices charged and topped up. Many bags offer a removable battery bank that slides into a special pocket or notch of the suitcase.

For carry-on luggage on a flight in the US, you're allowed to bring a lithium-ion battery of 100 watt-hours or less. You don't need to remove it from the suitcase's pocket if you're storing your bag in the overhead bin.

Lithium-ion battery banks are not allowed in checked luggage. If you check your bag or have to gate-check it, make sure to remove the battery bank before you give your suitcase to the gate agent. Slip the battery bank into your purse, backpack, or pocket for the duration of the flight.

Medea Giordano

Nena Farrell

Scott Gilbertson

Adrienne So

WIRED COUPONS

Extra 20% off sitewide - Dyson promo code

GoPro Promo Code: 15% off Cameras and Accessories

Get Up To Extra 45% Off - April Secret Sale

10% Off Everything w/ Dell Promo Code

VistaPrint Promo Code: $10 Off $50+

50% off Select Products - Newegg Promo Code

3 Best Hard Case Golf Travel Bags In 2024

Are you traveling for an upcoming golf vacation? Or are you joining a golf tournament in another area? If this is the case, you need the best hard case golf travel bag to secure your clubs in transit. Unlike typical stand bags, hard case travel bags will give additional protection for your clubs featuring high quality materials such as heavy duty zippers capable of being locked these are ideal bags for airlines . You probably heard some horror stories about valuable items getting damaged during the rigors of travel. So if you are to fly with your golf gear, you might as well secure it properly and make sure you stick to the airline rules to do with weight etc.

In many of our articles, especially product-based stories, we earn a small commission when readers purchase through our product links. This doesn’t affect which products are included in the articles. All of the products we highlight are recommended for their quality, performance, and overall reputation, regardless of any affiliate relationships.

Purpose of golf travel bags

Golf travel bags are made for one thing: to keep your golf gear safe wherever you go especially air travel. Unlike typical soft-shelled stand bags, travel bags are reinforced with a harder material that will cushion any potential impact to your club heads .

Also, it’s a great way to store your golf clubs and accessories if you’re not playing for a long time. So even if you’re flying or not, these bags come handy for a variety of uses.

However, make sure that you get the right size that fits your clubs. Also, always prioritize the quality and other aspects we discussed below.

Hard case vs. soft case golf bags 

There are two types of golf travel bags based on material: hard case and soft case bags.

Soft golf travel bags are light, which is a big advantage and are generally the more affordable option. This is the typical choice of golfers who are tipping near the maximum set weight for air travel. However, it offers less protection for your golf clubs, golf shoes etc. As much as it secures your equipment, there’s no guarantee if it can shield the equipment from impact.

On the other hand, we have the hard case golf travel bags. These are reinforced shells where a golf bag can be secured. This way, your clubs, and accessories have solid protection against any impact while on the cargo area. Some hard case golf clubs even have a soft lining for added protection. They come with wheels to make transporting them around that bit easier.

Best Hard Case Golf Travel Bag – Buying Guide

Are you looking for the best hard case golf travel bag? Before you put your money in a model, make sure that you have thought of the following points first:

*Check the material

The first thing you have to check is the material. For hard case golf bags, the likes of ABS plastic, polyethylene, and PVC are the widely used material. All of these are durable but on various levels and for air travel we need strength to keep your clubs safe rather than making a baggage claim whilst also staying within the weight limits imposed by airlines.

ABS or Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene is a thermoplastic polymer. It has a high strength-to-density ratio with a decent resistant to extreme temperatures. It’s also widely used on golf bags due to its low price.

Moreover, you can also consider PE or polyethylene. This golf bag material is very durable and widely used as pipe covers. Aside from that, it has better temperature resistance than ABS.

Lastly, you can consider PVC hard case bags. This is durable, available in a variety of colors, and resistant to extreme temperatures. However, it’s not the most eco-friendly option among the three.

*Extra lining

Since the best hard case golf travel bag has a stiff construction, you should look for padding if possible. It’s a soft lining, probably made of foam or cloth. This way, even if your expensive clubs move slightly inside, it will not sustain damages obviously ones with internal straps and extra padding are better options. Still, you should always use club head covers.

*Look for compartments

The extra storage compartments of the golf bag make it easier for you to organize your gear. This way, you won’t have to fumble in deep pockets full of balls, tees, head covers, and so on. Also, with the additional pockets/ compartment, you can easily take each club in and out of the bag without making a mess out of it. No golfer has ever said I do regret having those extra pockets or additional compartments.

*Choose the right size and weight

There’s no use to a durable golf bag if it doesn’t fit your golfing equipment. Always measure the longest club and look for a hard case travel bag that’s a few inches longer than the equipment. That way, you have extra room for adjustments.

Aside from the size, you should also factor in the weight of the bag. Take note that you’ll stuff it with loads of heavy equipment. If it’s too heavy when empty, you may need to pay extra at the airport.

Nevertheless, always expect hard case golf bags to be heavier than typical fabric bags.

*What are you going to put in it?

Are you taking your full set of golf clubs and countless accessories? If you’re packing for a big tournament, you might as well look for the largest golf bag.

*Go for wheels and handles

When it comes to the best hard case golf travel bag, try to look for a unit with built-in wheels. This bag can be cumbersome so oversized wheels will come handy while you push it around. Besides, you wouldn’t want an aching shoulder even if it comes with a padded shoulder strap  before you get to the golf course.

Also, look for ergonomic handles that will make pulling easy for you. Opt for a golf bag with multiple handles on the top and sides. That way, you can easily retrieve it from the luggage conveyor.

*Durability

This should go without saying, but always prioritize durability over price and design. Your choice of the best hard case golf travel bag should be strong enough to withstand the unforgiving environment of the cargo area.

Also, look for a golf bag with a water-resistant, dirt-proof, and shock-proof build. That way, your clubs are safe, no matter how long you travel.

*Color and design

This is just a bonus part, but since you’re going to spend premium money on this bag, you might as well make the most out of it. Most hard case golf bags are color black. Still, you can chance upon other colors with varying designs.

This is very important, especially with very expensive hard case golf bags. As much as possible, look for a golf bag with a money-back guarantee, or at least a limited warranty. This will secure your purchase should any issues with the product come up.

Any form of guarantee is ideal so you can hold the seller accountable for any defects.

*Value for money

Last but not the least, always look for the best value for money. This is the right balance between quality and price. Take note that although some golf bags may have a higher price tag, it’s worth the splurge given the high-end quality offering maximum protection and ample storage. As much as you want to save money, opting for cheap golf bags will only do your gear a big disservice.

3 Best Hard Case Golf Travel Bag Options

Our #1 choice, our top choice: skb ata deluxe standard wheeled golf bag travel case.

Product Name: SKB ATA Deluxe Standard Wheeled Golf Bag Travel Case

Product Description: Our top recommendation is the SKB ATA Deluxe Standard Wheeled Golf Bag Travel Case. It’s made of polyethylene that has a high molecular weight that meets the ATA 300 Category I. Aside from that, this case comes with a TSA locking system so you can bring it to the plane with no hassle. Moreover, this bag is tight and secure to prevent moisture, dirt, and dust from getting into your clubs. It even has a patent-pending valence closure plus latch security.

Offer price: $$$

Availability: InStock

• CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
• Value for Money

Overall, this golf bag can fit cart bags, driers, and carry bags for up to 48 inches. Inside the case is a contoured compartment to secure your bags and gears. Aside from that, there’s also foam lining at the upper area to prevent damages to your clubs.

This golf bag weighs 19 pounds, which is relatively light for its rugged build. It has a durable side handle that allows you to pick it up on the go.

Aside from the golf bag case, this SKB item also comes with the brand’s $1,500 club coverage!

✔️Proprietary Perfect-Match valence closure

✔️Inclusive of SKB’s $1,500 club coverage

✔️TSA-accepted

❌Has only a single handle (not a biggie)

Samsonite Hard Sided Golf Travel Case

If you’re looking for a stand-up golf case, don’t miss the Samsonite Golf Hard Sided Travel Case. It’s made with ABS shell shields that will guard your clubs and accessories against wear and tear. Also, we love its quilted and padded interior packed with extra foam as shock absorbers.

Moreover, this case has multi-directional wheels as well as in-line skate wheels so you can easily maneuver it wherever you are. Aside from that, there are internal compression straps that will hold your soft golf bag inside. This has top and side handles as well as interlocking zipper pulls.

Take note that this case works for clubs that are no longer than 48 inches. Overall, this Samsonite golf bag case has a slim design and an unbeatable 5-year warranty.

So if you often travel with your golf equipment, you might as well invest in this high-quality golf case. Also, if you have photography equipment that you need to transport, this golf case comes handy as well.

Founders Club Hard Shell Top Travel Luggage

For short trips, we recommend the Founders Club Golf Travel Luggage. It’s a hybrid bag with an ABS top shelf and a 600-denier polyester body. This gives the head of your clubs the best protection while cutting off some excess weight at the bottom of the bag.

The base of this golf club bag has transport wheels that allow you to push and pull with ease. Aside from that, this bag has three padded handles so you can easily lift it up.

Moreover, this golf club bag can accommodate golf clubs that are no longer than 50 inches. Aside from that, it has two compartments where you can store shoes and other smaller gears. Also, it has lockable zippers, though you have to purchase a TSA lock separately.

What we really love the most about this golf bag is its 1-year replacement warranty. If the products showed defects within a year, you can get a replacement, no questions asked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: how much does it cost to bring golf clubs on a plane.

A: Golf clubs are usually classified as a second bag, which has a base cost of about $35 (will vary widely per airline). For larger and third bags, it could cost between $75 and $150. If you want to save money from transporting your golf equipment, you should consider shipping instead.

Q: How tall is a hard case golf travel bag with clubs?

A: Usually, hard case golf bags can accommodate up to 50 inches so more than enough for that driver even with the club head covered. This is way longer than the standard 36-inch golf stand bag.

Q: What is the difference between a golf cart bag and a golf stand bag?

A: Golf stand bags are smaller and allow the golfer to carry a much lighter weight. However, this convenience is at the expense of storage space. On the other hand, golf cart bags are much larger and have a removable top that allows it to be used as a caddy bag on the golf course.

Q: How heavy is a golf travel bag?

A : If stuffed with golf equipment, these bags can weigh as much as 35 to 50 pounds. When empty, it will weigh around 10 to 20 pounds.

Q: How do you protect your golf clubs when flying?

A: The best way to protect your golf gears from damage while flying is placing it inside the best hard case golf travel bag. You can also wrap each club in bubble wrap for extra protection and additional cushioning.

Final words

The best hard case golf travel bag is a great investment to protect your equipment. Just make sure that you choose one with the strongest material and excellent build. And even if hard case golf bags cost more, it’s a worthy splurge that will prevent expensive damages, especially on premium clubs.

TheGolfingPro

Right Shoulder Pain From Golf – What Causes it And What You Can Do

5 Best Golf Clubs for Seniors & Aging Golfers In [year]

Privacy Policy - Terms and Conditions

The Best Suitcases for Checking

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

For many travelers, the frequently discussed dream is to never check a bag. But life doesn’t always cooperate—sometimes you need a bigger suitcase.

After researching 30 pieces of checked luggage and testing eight finalists over many years, we can still say that the Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the best suitcase for most travelers who plan to check a bag. The bag easily holds two weeks’ worth of clothes, and it looks and feels fantastic. And it comes with a limited lifetime warranty against airline damage.

Everything we recommend

Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner

The best checked bag for most travelers.

This bag provides a luxury feel at a reasonable price, with a capacity, warranty, and reliability that should suit most travelers. The 25-inch model should offer plenty of room for most travelers, without going over airline weight limits.

Buying Options

Travelpro Platinum Elite 29″ Expandable Spinner

Same suitcase, but bigger.

If you need a checked bag that gives you the maximum allowable space, and you don’t mind paying an overweight-bag fee, the 29-inch model is the way to go.

Away The Medium

The best hard-sided checked suitcase.

This great-looking, relatively resilient piece of hard-sided luggage matches our hard-sided carry-on pic. It has the same top-of-the-line components—including wheels that roll as smoothly as any we’ve tested.

Away The Large

The best large hard-sided checked suitcase.

If you need to maximize your allowed space, and you aren’t worried about weight limits, this bag is, as the name implies, the largest one Away makes. Apart from its extra capacity, it’s identical to The Medium.

Upgrade pick

Briggs & Riley Baseline Medium Expandable 26″ Spinner

Hefty luggage for a heftier price.

This bag provides the most satisfying packing experience money can buy. It can fit an additional week’s worth of clothing, when compressed, in the same amount of space as the Travelpro Platinum Elite bag offers.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Extra Large Expandable 31″ Spinner

The same durable bag, but bigger.

This bag is for anyone who needs a somewhat ludicrous amount of space. Fully expanded, this bag is the biggest we’ve found. Fair warning: If you fill it full of clothes, you’re all but guaranteed to exceed airline weight limits.

Monos Hybrid Trunk

This type of luggage brings back the classic silhouette of upright steamer trunks. Due to their design, trunks are considered by some to be easier to pack and to maneuver.

Use promo code MOM

Testing takeaways

We’ve found that the stated dimensions and weights of checked suitcases tend to be more accurate than those of their carry-on counterparts.

Wheel quality can affect how well carry-ons roll, but this is less true for checked bags—their weight smooths out the ride.

Handle shape and size often dictate a carry-on’s usable space. In roomier, checked bags, however, they’re less of a factor.

We considered how well a suitcase handles when it’s fully packed, how durable its materials are, and whether it’s comfortable to use.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the larger, checked-luggage version of our Travelpro carry-on top pick , and everything we like about its diminutive sibling applies again here.

It’s made of a hard-wearing nylon that’s both sleek and durable. And it looks and feels like a bag that costs a lot more than it actually does.

For a checked bag, it’s also surprisingly nimble. That’s thanks to the height-adjustable handle and the magnetically locking MagnaTrac wheels, which make the bag noticeably easier to maneuver—especially when it’s loaded with 50 pounds of stuff. And this suitcase is protected by a lifetime warranty, with stated protections against airline damages.

Internally, the Platinum Elite is well organized, and it includes a built-in garment folder for formalwear, with a removable folding board (similar to the one in our upgrade pick ). If you need a little more space, consider the Travelpro Platinum Elite 29″ Expandable Spinner .

Note that with luggage this capacious, it’s easy to overpack and exceed the 50-pound (22-kilogram) weight limit imposed by most airlines. But if you’re willing to pay the fee, the Platinum Elite can easily withstand the extra weight.

For anyone who enjoys the look and simplicity of hard-sided luggage—as well as the comfort of knowing that this one is virtually impossible to overpack— The Medium suitcase from Away is an excellent choice with an excellent warranty.

Soft-sided luggage typically has a longer lifespan than hard-sided bags, typically made of ABS plastic or polycarbonate. And soft-sided luggage typically has features like exterior pockets, making organization easier. However, the differences in durability and utility between hard- and soft-sided luggage are increasingly marginal, and plenty of people prefer the aesthetic and additional color options of polycarbonate suitcases.

Away builds its luggage with high-quality components. We tested the Away bag for three years before first recommending it. This suitcase has been our pick for over six years now, and we are confident in its long-term durability and the reputation of Away’s limited lifetime warranty . Away also makes a bigger checked-luggage model, The Large . We’ve found, however, that it’s very easy to overpack suitcases of this size, even ones that are hard-sided.

If you identify as a frequent flier or a serious overpacker, or if you have a large family and are willing to invest in higher-quality luggage for traveling, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Medium Expandable 25″ Spinner .

Although the Travelpro Platinum Elite is great for the price, the Briggs & Riley Baseline bag is great, period. Every detail is made to the highest standards of any luggage maker—from the zippers to the wheels to a unique compression system (which lets you fit an additional week’s worth of clothing into the same volume as offered by the Travelpro bag).

You won’t get the unique styling that other luxury brands specialize in, but Briggs & Riley’s reputation for reliability and durability is unmatched. The bag also includes a garment folder, as the Travelpro bag does.

If things go awry, user-replaceable parts and a network of repair centers located around the world make quick fixes easy, and the reliable lifetime warranty covers repairs for any kind of damage. We’ve traveled with this durable bag for six years now on multiple national and international trips. And it’s still in great shape and a dream to pack. Also, its expanding capability has rescued us more than once when we wanted to bring something extra home.

Trunk luggage, including the Monos Hybrid Trunk , replaces the 50/50 split of a clamshell design with a deeper central compartment. It’s a small change, and it makes packing this type of case very pleasant.

However, this luggage seems best for destination travel, when you pack up once and unpack once. Living out of a trunk requires more layers of packing and unpacking. So using trunk luggage across multiple stops could seem potentially onerous, compared with using a bag that has a typical clamshell design.

Monos continues to impress us with its luggage lines and construction. But the Hybrid Trunk stands out for its reinforced aluminum frame and denser-feeling polycarbonate, and it has a lifetime warranty for any damage that renders the luggage unusable.

The research

Why you should trust us, how we picked and tested, the best checked luggage: travelpro platinum elite 25" expandable spinner, our pick for the best hard-sided luggage: away the medium suitcase, upgrade pick: briggs & riley baseline expandable spinner, the best trunk pick: monos hybrid trunk, other good suitcases for checking, the competition, what to look forward to.

I’ve been covering luggage and travel-bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. Over the years, we’ve also spoken with plenty of experts : flight attendants for major airlines; product designers and creative directors for luggage and gear companies; and travel writers. My conversations with these people have helped shape our coverage, and we owe much to their collective knowledge.

We’ve spent more than 160 hours researching luggage, continually testing to understand what makes good luggage. In the nearly eight years we’ve covered this category, the products have evolved—and so has our thinking about what kind of luggage is best for most people. Based on what’s available and what different travelers prefer, we think the following travel bags are the best checked luggage you can currently find.

There may be thousands of different types of checked luggage available for sale. Even after we excluded models that didn’t meet our basic criteria—a reliable warranty, reputable luggage reviews, and quality materials—we found hundreds of bags worth testing. And we went on to evaluate the choices between nylon and polyester, the difference in wheel-bearing designs, why alloys in telescoping handles matter, and more.

Besides the suggestions from our experts, we researched editorial and user reviews of luggage, making sure to include popular brands, such as Samsonite and Tumi, as well as more-esoteric names, like Hideo Wakamatsu. In addition to our interviews with experts, we’ve spoken with assorted salespeople, brand engineers, and media-relations folks, to make sure we found the best models from each company.

If you want a general rundown of our testing process, check out the corresponding sections from our best carry-on luggage review , since our testing of the larger bags mirrored that process. But we did uncover some differences—mostly having to do with the larger size of checked luggage—that led us to modify our analysis.

The smaller the luggage, the more intricate the design must become to accommodate travelers’ needs. While testing carry-on luggage in the past, we found that company claims of luggage weight and measurements weren’t exactly precise, with capacities exaggerated and weights minimized. Oddly, for checked bags, we didn’t find so much fudging of the numbers. Our best guess is that with the looser size and weight restrictions for checked luggage, manufacturers aren’t as motivated to manipulate their figures when advertising their larger bags.

When we tested carry-ons, we noticed the varied and individual way that each bag handled rough surfaces, depending on their wheels and build quality. With checked bags, this wasn’t a problem. When any checked bag was fully packed, the weight carried it over the roughest of surfaces, without a strong discernable difference between models.

With bags this large, the subtler points of comparison aren’t as pronounced. For instance, the handle’s size and shape can significantly change a carry-on bag’s usable space and your overall packing experience. But when space limits aren’t an issue, this doesn’t really matter. As a result, we focused on the obvious design comparisons, including how these bags handled when full, how durable their materials were, and whether the bags were comfortable to use.

For the majority of families who fly less than 25,000 miles a year together, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the best choice for checked luggage.

It’s the bag to compare others against. The Platinum Elite suitcase is a durable, attractively styled, well-organized bag for a reasonable price. It holds a full seven days’ worth of clothes for two people, and it’s protected by a warranty that covers carrier damage, as long as you register the bag within 120 days of purchase. (The registration is a very simple process, and it can be done in 5 minutes with a smartphone: Simply take a picture of the registration code, which comes with the luggage; send that picture to a number Travelpro provides; and fill out the form in the response link .)

During a trip to New Zealand, our tester was able to pack two weeks’ worth of clothes—without a laundry stop—and several pieces of camera equipment into the Platinum Magna (the previous, largely identical model of the Platinum Elite) without issue. Like every large piece of checked luggage we tested, the Platinum Elite comes only in a four-wheel (or “spinner”) configuration. More wheels mean more bits with the potential to break (as well as some reduction of interior space), but that’s a necessary compromise for bags this size, if you want any hope of managing them in a busy airport.

It shrugs off wear and tear. The Platinum Elite’s exterior is made of ballistic nylon, which can take more overall abuse than polycarbonate and will show less wear in the long run. As we’ve said with regard to carry-ons , we don’t think polycarbonate hard-shell bags are as versatile or durable as soft-sided nylon bags. (Travelpro tests its bags by filling them with 70-pound loads and passing each handle through 7,500 automated lift tests.)

Hard-shell bags usually weigh about 4 pounds less than soft-sided equivalents. However, their increased failure rate and affinity for displaying scratches and wear aren’t worth it, unless the bag’s contents really need the extra protection from sharp jabs.

The soft fabric design allows for extra flexibility and the inclusion of exterior pockets, for quick access to small items. The Platinum Elite has two pockets: a flat one (suitable for documents and boarding passes) and an accordion-style one (which provides extra storage for miscellaneous small items; this can be a lifesaver if you’re traveling with kids and need quick access to extra-small toys, coloring books, clothes, or other supplies).

Organization makes the dream work. During her three-week trip in New Zealand, photographer Caleigh Waldman said of the earlier, nearly identical model in the Platinum line, “On this trip I never stayed in the same location for more than three days and was forced to constantly unpack, repack, and maneuver [the bag]. Usually living out of any suitcase makes me crazy, but the many zip compartments [of this bag], both inside and out, make it easy to compartmentalize your things. The pockets, zippers, and interior liner seemed sturdy, and the large pull-back cover allowed me to access everything I had in the bag with ease.”(Full disclosure: Years later we married, but I don’t think that influenced her review.)

Similar to its smaller Travelpro sibling, the Carry-On Rollaboard , this suitcase has a built-in garment folder (or “suiter”). Additionally, a 2-inch-wide expansion zipper runs along three sides of the Platinum Elite, allowing the bag to accordion-open a touch, if you need the extra space (though we found this more useful as a way to compress what you’ve already packed than as an additional-space-providing feature).

It moves through the world with ease. The Platinum Elite handles beautifully for its size. Its aluminum handle extends to three different heights (38 inches, 40 inches, and 42½ inches). Although every bag we tested for this guide had similar levels of maneuverability, the Premium Elite’s MagnaTrac wheels, which align in the same direction, rolled past the rest of the competition with ease. On smooth surfaces, like those found in airports, it felt as if the bag were almost directing itself across the floor.

During her trip, Caleigh appreciated this suitcase’s smooth rolling, even when the bag was overpacked, saying, “It was not always easy to maneuver on rough or gravelly surfaces. Overall, though, given the limitations of traveling with this much stuff, I thought [this bag] did a great job moving through a variety of environments.” And it has sealed wheel bearings; these extend the wheels’ life by preventing dirt and grime from entering and breaking down the components as quickly. That’s a feature not usually found on cheaper bags. And chances are good that if a bag isn’t clearly advertising sealed bearings, you should assume it doesn’t have them. If, for whatever reason, the wheels do break, you can easily swap them out yourself with Travelpro’s readily available replacements .

It’s light yet cavernous. The Platinum Elite weighs 9 pounds 8 ounces when empty, which is average to heavy among checked bags. That’s a workable weight, though, for the bag’s spacious, 6,982-cubic-inch interior—twice what its carry-on sibling can hold! But when you’re selecting luggage this large, weight shouldn’t be your primary concern because all of the bags we tested felt about equally heavy once fully packed. The important thing is that, in our testing, the Platinum Elite swallowed up a week’s worth of clothes for two people with no problem, with a good deal of room to spare.

Travelpro also sells a Platinum Elite model that’s 29 inches tall . It’s important to emphasize just how absurdly large this suitcase is for most people. Given its capacity of 7,710.6 cubic inches (143 liters), the challenge here is to pack without breaking airline weight limits. I suppose if you were on a (very) long cruise, a bag this size might make sense.

How the Platinum Elite has held up

After my wife’s world travels, a neighbor borrowed this bag for their children’s college travels (Hawaii to New York), making several trips over the past few years. The Platinum Elite is still going strong.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

We should note that bags of this size can hold almost too much. The Platinum Elite bag already weighs over 9 pounds. So when you pack it to its limits, it may be hard to keep it below the 50-pound weight limit of most airlines—and that means extra fees. But this is true of all checked luggage.

During her New Zealand trip, Caleigh Waldman packed the Platinum Magna 2 (29-inch model) for two weeks, with enough clothes, toiletries, and different types of shoes and activewear for the terrain. Though she didn’t fill the bag completely, she still found that her luggage came in over the 50-pound limit. “Every flight I took, I had to cough up the overweight-baggage fee, and it was a monster to carry up stairs and toss into car trunks,” she said.

We still think most travelers would be better off with one of our soft-sided picks than with a hard-sided carry-on. That’s because soft-sided luggage shows less wear and typically lasts longer than hard-sided luggage. But if you prefer the look of hard-sided luggage, or you want the security of knowing you can’t overpack your suitcase, Away’s The Medium is the one we recommend.

From wheels to warranty, it’s the best polycarbonate option. Its wheels and zipper are as well made as those of our soft-sided picks, and its polycarbonate showed fewer scratches than its hard-sided competitors. And it’s backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

It provides more than enough space. The Medium weighs 9.9 pounds and measures 26 by 18.5 by 11 inches—a fairly standard weight and size for checked luggage this size. (By comparison, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 25-inch bag weighs 9.8 pounds and measures 28 by 18.5 by 11.75 inches.) If you need extra room,  Away’s The Large offers the maximum allowed space in a piece of checked luggage. The Large weighs 11.6 pounds and measures 29 by 20.5 by 12.5 inches. But with bags this big, it’s easier to overpack and exceed airline weight limits, which is why we recommend the Away Medium for most people.

Don’t sweat the flex. The Away bag’s modern and minimalist look comes at a cost: Its polycarbonate shell is ultimately—according to every luggage designer we’ve ever interviewed—more likely to break than the nylon fabric of our other picks is to tear. Still, the shell feels similar to those of higher-end (and significantly more expensive) suitcases, such as the $1,000-plus Rimowa Essential Check-In M ; it’s strong and flexible, and the Away bag itself feels good in your hands.

Away builds its luggage with impressive components. The wheels are noticeably better than those on any of the hard-sided competitors we’ve tested. We’ve rolled these wheels across every conceivable surface, from cobblestone streets to the smoothest airport surfaces, and they were always a pleasure to use. When we first started testing The Away bag, in 2016, we found that flexibility to be a liability, especially on airport carpets. The first version of this bag that I tested tended to flex into itself and jam up its own wheels when I pushed it in front of me. But I haven’t had that issue with any of this suitcase’s latest models.

Its interior matches its minimal exterior. The Away bag’s interior is almost as bare-bones as its exterior. Unlike our other picks, this bag has no included suiter or suit folder, but you can buy one for $85 . The interior is split in half: One side closes with a zippered flap, and the other side has a built-in compression panel and straps, which work decently well.

It’s better to stick with the basics. We tested Away luggage for three years before making our recommendation. We traveled with it ourselves across the country, and we lent models of the bag to several testers and frequent travelers to see how they enjoyed using them. Away makes two similar models of checked suitcases with an expandable zipper: The Medium Flex and The Large Flex . For all intents and purposes, these are the same overall bags as the standard Medium and Large, except for the expanding center zipper and the price (they each cost $50 more). Personally, I’m not a fan of expanding zippers. They feel like potentially just one more thing to break. Also, they can increase the likelihood of exceeding the airline’s weight limit. But some people may prefer having the extra flexibility.

Like our other picks, the Away pairs with its matching carry-on : The models are virtually identical, except for their sizes. Matching your luggage sets is visually appealing. But the real value in matching your carry-on to your checked luggage is that the smaller suitcase can, when you’re back home, nest within the larger one. (This holds true for every set of luggage we’ve ever tested. Here’s why: Nesting luggage is the most economical way for luggage manufacturers to ship their wares from their factories overseas.)

The lack of a suit panel for important items, like dresses and suits, may limit this suitcase’s appeal for some travelers. With a bag that has this much space, though, there are other ways to pack fancy clothes (video) without wrinkling them.

If you fly more than 25,000 miles per year, it’s worth investing in luggage that goes beyond the minimums and somehow improves your travel experience. The Briggs & Riley Baseline Medium Expandable 25″ Spinner is that kind of bag. It costs more than twice as much as our top soft-sided pick, but after using all of these bags side by side, I’m sure there’s more than twice as much value hidden within this luggage: This is one of the best checked luggage systems we’ve found for international travel.

It has the best compression system. This suitcase’s most impressive feature is its compression system. Briggs & Riley’s proprietary compression system is superior to anything else we’ve seen—it allows you to fit an additional week’s worth of clothing into a bag with the same external dimensions as those of the Travelpro Platinum Elite suitcase. To manage it, you pull upward on two plastic handles inside the bag; this extends its depth by a full 2½ inches. Load the bag as full as you need to, and zip it closed without putting stress on the zippers. Then you simply push on the bag to compress it back down again, and a latch mechanism keeps it securely in place. Unlike cheaper zippered expansion systems, which are either fully open or closed (like the Delsey bag’s ), this one can lock in at variable degrees of expansion or compression. This suitcase is unique and satisfying to use. (If you prefer a polycarbonate shell, Briggs & Riley has designed a similar compression system around a hard-shell case, for its Sympatico Spinner line. Still, we prefer the pliability of a soft-sided shell for any compression system.)

Measuring the extra capacity of the Baseline isn’t exact. The bag’s base (that is, where the wheels are) measures an inch deeper than the top of the bag (where the handle is); this design is, I believe, to make the base of the bag heavier when fully packed. At the base, the exterior of the Baseline Medium measures 25 by 18.5 by 10 inches; expanded, it measures 25 by 18.5 by 12 inches.

It takes hits like a brick. The Baseline Medium’s exterior is wrapped in 1,680-denier ballistic nylon, which is durable and puncture resistant. (Denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric.) But even more impressive is what’s underneath the nylon. The Baseline Medium’s frame is the strongest we’ve seen among any of the soft-sided luggage we tested. This bag can take considerable pressure from any angle. Like the Travelpro Platinum Elite, the Baseline Medium has two external pockets: a small one for tickets and passports and a larger one for small items or light outerwear. Briggs & Riley also makes a 31-inch Extra Large version of this bag, with nearly 10,000 cubic inches of interior space. It’s a good bag, but we can’t see the point of something this large. As it is, you can easily exceed most airlines’ weight limits packing the Medium to capacity.

Similar to its carry-on version, the Baseline Medium’s handrail tubes are on the outside of the bag; this makes the inside back wall almost completely flat, so packing is easier because there are no crevices to work around. We liked this feature for lighter carry-on luggage, since exterior plastic handrail tubes can protect the bag when it’s going over an edge, without risking too much damage. However, that all changes when you’re bouncing a 50-pound bag over a curb; in that case, an exposed handrail system seems like an unnecessary risk, especially since there’s so much room for an internal rail system.

Trunks are a welcome new addition (reimagined from a somewhat older tradition) to checked-luggage lines. Longer than they are wide, modern travel trunks—including our pick, the Monos Hybrid Trunk —stand out against the more-common squat, square luggage of the last few decades.

It has a pleasant shape, and it’s easy to maneuver. The Monos Hybrid measures 30 by 15.7 by 14.3 inches, with a capacity of 6,735.3 cubic inches, and it weighs 13.2 pounds. Imagine something like a small steamer trunk, except without the team of stevedores to move it.

In our early testing, we’ve found that the Monos Hybrid, with its taller, narrower shape, is easier to wheel around than other checked luggage. There’s something about the four wheels’ relative proximity to one another that gives the trunk a remarkable agility across most surfaces. Its wheels make it handle more like a carry-on bag than the other checked luggage we tested.

It’s a pleasure to pack. This element is harder to explain. Packing the trunk somehow just feels more pleasant than packing other types of luggage. Maybe it’s the main compartment’s higher walls, which give a comforting feeling of placing your clothes deep within the confines of a box. Or perhaps it’s the shape’s somewhat vintage appeal, bringing up nostalgia for a type of travel you’ve never experienced except in movies. Packing clothes into the Hybrid Trunk for a long journey is like stepping back in time just for a moment.

That said, unlike the steamer trunks of yore, the modern Monos Hybrid doesn’t have a ton of extra organization. One side has a fabric cover that completely zips in the contents; the other side has a compression panel with two zippered pockets. That said, for most modern travelers using (I hope) a good set of packing cubes , these simple dividers should be plenty to keep everything in the right place.

The Hybrid Trunk does away with the standard zipper closure, opting instead for an aluminum frame that runs along the seam of the luggage, where a zipper might have been. The case has two TSA locks, which close with a satisfying latch. We’ve reviewed a few bags with latches like this, and they’re great. Our only concern is that these locks have lots of small moving components, which could be a weak point over time.

It’s made for long, tough journeys. The only trunk models we’ve seen so far are made of polycarbonate. The Monos Hybrid immediately stands out with three details: an aluminum frame around the center seam that reinforces the body of the luggage, aluminum corner guards, and a reassuringly robust polycarbonate.

The Monos Hybrid Trunk, like our other picks, is protected by a lifetime warranty.

• The one potential flaw we’ve found so far (we’ve tested trunks for only a few months) is that a trunk design may require more packing and unpacking to find what you need if you’re making lots of stops while traveling. A suitcase with a clamshell design, on the other hand, has both sides more or less open to you for easier access.
• Like the Away, the Monos Hybrid Trunk doesn’t have a dedicated suit folder or suit compartment for dresses or formal wear. Again though with this much space to pack in, there are a number of ways to protect clothes like this.

If the Monos Hybrid Trunk is unavailable: Consider Away’s The Trunk , which has a similar design (apart from having a zipper, instead of latches) for a similar price. However, though we’re generally fans of Away’s luggage, The Trunk isn’t as satisfying to use as the Monos Hybrid . The Away Trunk’s shell is flexible and its body is light, so it lacks the robust feel of the Monos Hybrid.

The Delsey Helium Aero , our previous hard-sided pick, comes in a 25-inch and a 29-inch version, so you can choose how much capacity you need. Like the Away suitcase, this bag is made of 100% polycarbonate, so it should last longer than cheaper, less-durable ABS plastic suitcases. However, Delsey’s 10-year limited warranty doesn’t match Away’s limited lifetime warranty.

Briggs & Riley makes excellent luggage, but we don’t think you need to spend this much on a hard-sided case without any extra frills, like the Briggs & Riley Torq Medium Spinner .

The Delsey Peugeot Large Trunk Spinner has a similar zipperless design as the Monos Hybrid, but the Peugeot bag lacks the corner guards and, more importantly, the lifetime warranty. Instead, the Peugeot is backed by a 10-year warranty.

Rimowa defined hard-sided luggage in the 1940s and redefined it in 2000, when it introduced polycarbonate luggage. But paying just over $1,000 for “virgin German polycarbonate” is silly. These bags, including the Rimowa Essential Check-In M , are smart-looking, though.

If you’ve ever wondered how much people pay for those handsome aluminum pieces of luggage, we’ll tell you: at least four figures. The Rimowa Classic Check-In M is twice as expensive as a ticket to Europe, yet it’s little more than a status symbol.

We also tested and dismissed Pelican and Samsonite suitcases that have since been discontinued.

We’re taking a look at the Level8 Voyageur Check-In . Its standout feature is the unusually wide handle, which seems to help its handling. The Level8 bag is less expensive than other luggage of its size and apparent quality. It’s also backed by a lifetime warranty. To make a decision, however, we do need to study the handle and the build quality a bit longer.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

Wirecutter’s 100 Most Popular Picks in September 2022

by Wirecutter Staff

These 100 useful things were the most-purchased Wirecutter picks in September 2022.

Wirecutter’s Most Popular Picks of March 2023

by Gabriella DePinho

Here are the top 100 picks that our readers loved in March, from luggage to hiking boots.

Wirecutter’s 100 Most Popular Picks of March 2024

Here are the 100 things our readers loved most in March, including rain jackets, sports bras, luggage, eclipse-viewing gear, and more.

Wirecutter’s 100 Most Popular Picks of January 2024

Here are the 100 things our readers loved most in January, from carry-ons to humidifiers and more.

Zurich Classic of New Orleans

TPC Louisiana

Travel Bags

9 of our favorite golf travel bags to consider for your next golf trip

The proper golf travel bag is necessary for anyone hitting the road. A travel bag needs to check all the boxes —durability, pocket space, padding and an internal strap to keep the bag snug and not moving around inside—the difference-maker is the much-appreciated ability to effortlessly move through the airport. Wheels to allow you to move through the airport with minimum effort is also key.

If you're reading this, it's not too late. You've likely done the hard part—booking your next golf trip. Now you need to figure out how to get your golf clubs safely to your destination. We're here to help, here are a few of our favorite travel bags that'll make things a little easier whenever you hit the road again. RELATED: The best travel cover for golfers

Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian

The Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian is large enough to hold anything from a standard carry bag to the largest of cart bags. There are enough pockets to store everything from a pair (or two) of golf shoes, raingear, a dozen balls and, on the way home, probably a bag of dirty laundry. At the airport, the pivoting wheels make maneuvering through check-in a breeze.

Caddymatic Hard Top Shell Padded Travel Cover with Wheels

A durable, polyester lower half folds up inside the hard top to make it easier for storage. The shell top of the bag helps protect clubs from damage in transit.

More to consider:

Founders Club Golf Travel Cover Luggage

Samsonite "The Protector Hard & Soft Golf Travel Cover with Shark Wheels

Founders Club Golf Travel Bag Travel Cover Luggage for Golf Clubs with ABS Hard Shell Top

Club Glove Last Bag Collegiate Travel Cover with Stiff Arm

Not only is Club Glove one of the most trusted companies in this space, but it also offers some of the most impressive style offerings in golf. Available in 16 colors, these are well-designed bags, which also include a stiff arm protector to keep your driver safe.

Bag Boy T-2000 Travel Cover

For anyone who's struggled to fit their golf bag into a tight travel case in the past, the Bag Boy will seem like a revelation. The full wraparound zippered compartment makes it simple to get your clubs into the case.

Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover

This might be the most innovative option in this group. The Kube folds into a versatile little square, making it convenient for condensing in size when your bag's not in there (think in the trunk of your car on a golf trip, or in storage when you're not on a trip).

TourTrek TC PRO Travel Cover

Just like the bag above, this Tour Trek has a large compartment that wraps around and zippers shut. The company also boasts a central internal compression strap to help secure your clubs in transit. There are 11 colorful options to choose from.

SKB Cases ATA Deluxe Standard Hard Golf Bag

This durable case is molded from a durable polyethylene, which the company says was built to better fit golf bags of any size. This case also boasts what the company calls a "patent-pending closure system" with industrial strength latching to make the system more secure.

OGIO Straight Jacket Travel Cover

The strap system on this durable Ogio bag makes it easy to secure your clubs, so they don't move around and become damaged in transit. The travel bag is fully padded to protect your clubs further, and keeping the product as fresh as possible. The company, one of the most reliable for all types of bags, also boasts tip-resistant stability. (This model is currently sold out, but you can shop a similar Ogio travel bag here .)

RELATED: The best golf practice nets available now for indoor/outdoor at-home practice

More from Golf Digest

Trending now.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

The Best Hard- and Softshell Cases For Traveling With Your Bike

Whether you want a light and stealthy case to avoid fees or a tough, hard-side case to protect your ride, you'll find it here.

Whether you’re planning to travel across the country or across the globe, a sturdy bike travel case or bag is a worthy investment. Your bike will be better protected—and you’ll have more peace of mind—than it will if you stuff it into a cardboard box and hope for the best. Here’s what you need to know.

B&W International Bike Box II

Compact and tough plastic case and four smooth rolling wheels.

Orucase Airport Ninja

Requires more bike assembly, but less likely to incur a fee.

travel Bike Travel Bag Pro

Securely holds modern 29er trail bikes with minimal disassembly.

SCI-CON AeroComfort 3.0 TSA

This case lets you leave the pedals, bar, and seatpost in place.

Thule RoundTrip Transition

ABS plastic shell protects the bike inside. Comes with a repair stand.

Hardshell versus Softshell

Hardshell cases provide the highest level of protection against impacts, but they also weigh more, which can lead to even higher luggage fees. Hard cases also don’t break down, so they take up more room in a hotel room or rental car when not in use.

Softshell cases have come a long way in recent years, and some offer nearly the same level of protection as hard-shell models. Softshell cases are usually lighter than hard-shell cases, and fold or roll down for easier storage.

Hard-shell cases usually rely on a rigid, outer shell—made from a type of plastic—for their protection. Most softshell cases are constructed from durable nylon and rely on padding to protect your bike.

Some softshell cases have a rigid internal frame that provides structure and protects the bike from crushing forces. There are also hybrid cases, which have a fabric exterior lined with foam and plastic sheets.

Both types of cases often include additional padding for the frame, as well as straps to hold the frame and wheels in place.

Size and Weight

Pay attention to the size and weight of a bike case, particularly as it relates to the weight of the bike you plan to transport. Most airlines have a 50-pound weight limit before incurring an overweight fee. You need to factor in the weight of the case, the bike, and other items you’re considering throwing in there before selecting a case.

Hard-shell cases are more protective, but weigh more, leaving less for packing materials, bike, and gear. Softshell cases are lighter, which means you can pack a heavier bike without exceeding the limit but may offer less protection for your gear. The weight difference can be extreme: Thule’s Roundtrip Transition is made of ABS plastic and extremely rugged but weighs 38 pounds, while Orucase’s soft-sided Sub62 weighs just 13 pounds.

Most airlines have a dimensional limit of 62 linear inches—calculated by adding together the total length, width, and height of the bag. If an item of luggage is larger, it can incur an oversize-bag fee. Orucase’s Sub62 is smaller than 62 linear inches, so it should avoid an oversize fee, while Thule’s armored RoundTrip Transition measures over 106 linear inches and is almost certain to cost you extra.

Packing Tips and Tricks

Before choosing a case, have an idea of how much bike disassembly/assembly you’re comfortable with.

Cases like Scicon’s AeroComfort require very little wrenching to pack and unpack a bike but are larger and likely to incur a bike or oversize fee. A smaller and lighter case like Orucase’s Sub62 is much less likely to incur an oversize or overweight charge, but packing the bike into this case requires removal of both wheels, the bar and stem, rear derailleur, pedals, seatpost, and fork.

If you want to use additional padding to protect your bike during transit, consider using your cycling apparel, since it has to make the trip with you anyway. You can also use pipe insulation, which is inexpensive and can be purchased at your local home-supply store. Always be sure you also have all the tools you need to get your bike back up and running at your destination.

How We Picked

Every case on this list has been thoroughly evaluated and vetted by our team of test editors. We also consulted product managers and designers, athletes, and used our own travel experience with these cases to determine the best options. We evaluated them on performance, price, protection, weight, size, and how much bike disassembly is required to come up with a list of cases to serve the needs of anyone traveling with bikes.

Here are nine of our favorite bike travel bags and cases you can buy right now.

.css-1hhr1pq{text-align:center;font-size:1.1875rem;line-height:1.6;font-family:Charter,Charter-roboto,Charter-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;}.css-1hhr1pq em{font-style:italic;font-family:Charter,Charter-styleitalic-roboto,Charter-styleitalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;}.css-1hhr1pq strong{font-family:Charter,Charter-weightbold-roboto,Charter-weightbold-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:bold;} Most Stealthy

Orucase airport ninja.

Looking to sneak your road bike through security and escape extra baggage fees? If so, this Orucase travel case is the ticket. The ultra-compact bike backpack fits most road frames and breakaway-style travel bikes. Though it’s soft-sided, the Orucase bag uses integrated plastic panels with energy-absorbing foam to armor it against impacts.

Least Wrenching

Scicon aerocomfort 3.0 triathlon, scicon aerocomfort 3.0 triathlon.

Scicon’s AeroComfort 3.0 TSA blends the low weight of a soft-sided bike bag with a rigid frame to protect your prized ride from surly baggage handlers. This travel bag is designed specifically for drop-bar bikes and requires minimal disassembly. The wheels stow in dedicated pockets on the sides and, best of all, there’s no need to remove the handlebar. The adjustable chassis holds your frame in place by the axles—either quick-release or 12mm thru-axles. The four-wheeled design makes it easy to maneuver through crowded airports, and the compact design keeps it within many airlines’ standard luggage dimensions, which may help you skip oversize baggage fees.

B&W BIKE BOX II

B&w bike box ii.

B&W’s International Bike Box II is a simple, effective, and affordable hard-shell case. The clamshell design is easy to use, and the interlocking halves fasten with six buckles to keep everything secure. This budget-minded case includes wheel bags and multiple layers of foam to protect the frame from the wheels. Two fixed wheels and a pair of rotating castors make the International Bike Box II as easy to maneuver as a shopping cart.

DAKINE BIKE ROLLER BAG

Dakine bike roller bag.

Dakine’s Bike Roller Bag has enough space to fit 29ers, downhill bikes, and even 29er downhill bikes. Unlike many other soft-sided bags, the Bike Roller Bag has wheel sleeves inside the main compartment, which reduces the number of external zippers that could fail. Heavy-duty internal and external padding safeguards the frame, fork, and wheels from overzealous airport workers.

Cardboard Box

Bikeflights bike box, bikeflights bike box small.

A cardboard box is a light, inexpensive, and—provided the bike is packed properly—surprisingly safe way to ship a bike. Most brand new bikes—even high-end and custom bikes—are shipped in cardboard boxes. Bike breakdown and packing difficulty is average to high. A cardboard box has no puncture or impact protection, and can fall apart if it gets too wet. The BikeFlights Bike Box comes in four sizes: small, medium, large, and extra large.

Best For Mountain Bikes

Evoc bike travel bag pro, evoc bike travel bag pro.

EVOC’s bike bags are some of the most popular soft-sided options for road and mountain bikes—it even makes versions for BMX and fat bikes. The Bike Travel Bag Pro is a premium version of the company’s Bike Travel Bag. It includes an integrated aluminum chassis to hold frames securely in place by their axles. EVOC added six centimeters to the length of the bag to keep pace with the longer, lower, slacker trend in mountain biking. Another nod to modern mountain bikes are wheel pockets that can swallow 29-inch wheels wrapped in 2.6-inch tires. When not in use, the Bike Travel Bag Pro folds down small enough to fit under a bed.

THULE ROUNDTRIP TRANSITION

Thule’s RoundTrip Transition fits most road and mountain bikes within its tough, ABS plastic shell. Nylon wheel bags prevent frame and wheel rub during transport. The two-piece, hard shell cradles the frame in a lightweight aluminum stand that doubles as a work stand, making reassembly and maintenance a breeze once you arrive at your destination.

Fits Two Wheelsets

Biknd helium v4, biknd helium v4.

The Helium V4 is a drop bar-centric bike bag with a twist. Unlike most other bike bags, it can carry two wheelsets, which makes it an excellent option for cyclists traveling with both race-day and training wheels. Both sides fold flat for unfettered access for quick packing and removal. The feature that really sets the Helium V4 apart is the inflatable panels on the sides of the bag that add protection without heft. These inflatable bladders keep the weight to just 19.8 pounds, which is half of its heavyweight competitors.

Best for Large Bikes

Pro bike travel case mega, pro bike travel case mega.

Traveling with extra-large road bikes or 29er trail bikes poses problems for some cases, but not for Pro’s Bike Travel Case Mega. As the name suggests, this soft-sided bag is designed to swallow large and long frames easily. The alloy base holds the frame by the axles, while padded wheel pockets and foam bumpers keep your bike protected. Integrated pockets allow riders to stash pedals, tools, a mini-pump, and other ride essentials.

Unique Protective Feature

Douchebags savage bike bag, douchebags savage.

Once you get over the name, there’s a lot to like about this bike bag. The Db Savage is a soft-sided travel bag with a race car-inspired roll cage. This internal framework bolsters stiffness and provides an additional level of protection against damage. The Savage works with all road and mountain frames. It features external pockets for wheels and internal organizers for pedals and tools.

.css-1t6om3g:before{width:1.75rem;height:1.75rem;margin:0 0.625rem -0.125rem 0;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-background-size:1.25rem;background-size:1.25rem;background-color:#F8D811;color:#000;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-position:center;background-position:center;}.loaded .css-1t6om3g:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/bicycling/static/images/chevron-design-element.c42d609.svg);} Cycling Gear

The Hottest Road and Gravel Bikes for Spring

The Best Helmet Cameras for Fun and for Safety

The 8 Best Bike Shorts with Pockets

Keep Time Trial Weird

The 7 Best Bike Bells for Any Riding Style

The 7 Best Cycling Socks for Hot and Cold Weather

The Best Saddle Bags for Storing Tools and More

Silca's New StripChip and Chain Waxing System

The 6 Best Garmin Watches for Cyclists

Tested: Hunt's new SUB50 Limitless Wheels

The 10 Best Mountain Bike Saddles to Buy Now

• Student Successes
• My Learning

10 Best Camera Hard Cases in 2024 (For Travel & Protection)

You can also select your interests for free access to our premium training:

A camera hard case is the best way to protect your gear. Photography equipment is fragile and expensive. Even small knocks and scrapes can cause costly damage to your camera or lenses. For pro photographers, it can affect your livelihood. That’s why you need the best camera hard case.

The Pelican Air 1525  is our top choice. Its tough exterior and foam-padded interior keep your gear safe and secure. It’s big enough for your camera and accessories without being bulky. It’s the ideal choice if you travel with your camera. But check out the full list of camera hard cases.

If you buy a product through one of our referral links we will earn a commission (without costing you anything). Prices last updated on .

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

10 Best Camera Hard Cases for Camera Equipment

Traveling with your camera and gear can be a nerve-racking experience. But having a quality camera hard case sets your mind at ease. You can travel with your camera equipment safely stowed away. And you’ll have no nasty surprises when you reach your destination.

Here’s a quick overview of our best camera hard cases. We’ll take a closer look at each one in the section below. We show dimensions in length (L), width (W), and depth (D).

• Good choice of interior protection
• Lightweight but still provides excellent protection
• Watertight sealing and crushproof exterior
• Purge valve to regulate interior air pressure
• Pick 'n' Pluck customizable foam interior
• Excellent case depth for extra storage
• Waterproof down to 16.5 ft (5 m)
• Survives temperatures down to -40 C

• Enough storage space for several cameras, lenses, and accessories
• Padded dividers for organizing and protecting your gear
• Retractable handle and wheels for easy transportation
• Pressure equalization valve

• Large enough for big projects and long trips
• US Military-level protection for your gear
• Customizable foam interior

• Perfect size for DSLR or Mirrorless body with lenses
• Military-grade tough exterior casing
• Gasket seals make it completely watertight

• Retractable handle and roller wheels for easy transport
• Padded dividers are easily adjusted for a custom interior
• Small enough for hand luggage with most airlines

• Padded divider section is removable
• Outer case can withstand 120 kg of pressure
• Secure latches and padlock receptacles

• Small but highly secure camera hard case
• Interior foam can be shaped to fit your gear
• Strong steel lock hasps and pressure valve for air travel

• Can stay submerged over 30 minutes without risk of leakage
• Comfortable rubber handle
• Protects against the cold down to -40 C

• Convenient size with excellent protection
• Customizable foam interior so your gear has a snug fit
• Pressure valve for secure air travel

1. Pelican Air 1525

Pelican is the leading brand for camera hard cases. And the Air 1525 hard case is their best all-around protective case . It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and offers excellent protection for your photography gear.

The exterior dimensions (L x W x D) are 21.96 x 13.97 x 7.49 inches (55.8 x 35.5 x 19 cm). And the interior dimensions are 20.5 x 11.31 x 6.75 inches (52 x 17.14 x 28.7 cm). It’s spacious enough for multiple cameras and many lenses and accessories.

The option we’ve listed includes padded dividers. They hold your equipment in place and stop them from banging together. And the Velcro dividers are adjustable. So you can customize the interior space.

The Air 1525 is 40% lighter than Pelican’s previous cases but can still take a beating. It’s completely crushproof and watertight. And the purge valve regulates the air pressure inside.

If you want something solid, you can’t go wrong with this Pelican case. The Air 1525 is the best model in their range . And it’s the best camera hard case out there!

2. Vanguard Supreme 46F

Camera cases don’t get much harder than the Vanguard Supreme 46F . It’s slightly heavy, but your camera equipment is safe and sound when packed into this hard case.

The exterior dimensions (L x W x D) are 22.05 x 19.76 x 9.17 inches ( 56 x 50.2 x 23.3 cm). Interior dimensions are 18.9 x 14.6 x 7.9 inches (48 x 37 x 20 cm). It’s big enough for several cameras and a selection of camera accessories.

The hard case comes with interior foam, which you can change. You create a foam pocket for each piece of equipment by cutting away the sections you don’t need. This system ensures each item has a snug fit and doesn’t move around.

It’s ideal for air travel and adventure gear. The automatic pressure equalization valve ensures no damage is done when the bag is on the plane. And it can take pretty much anything Mother Nature can throw at it.

It’s waterproof down to 16.5 ft (5 m). And it can survive temperatures down to as low as -40 C.

If you want a hard camera case with a foam interior, the Vanguard Supreme 46F won’t let you down.

3. Nanuk 935 Carry-on

The Nanuk 935 is a hard case for photographers who need to travel. It’s spacious enough for all your essential camera kit. And you can travel without fear of damaging your equipment.

The exterior dimensions (L x W x D) are 22.0 x 14.0 x D 9.0 inches (55.9 x 35.5 x 22.9 cm). And the interior measures 20.5 x 11.3 x 7.5 inches (52 x 28.7 x 19 cm).

The case includes a padded divider insert. It keeps your camera and accessories neat and tightly packed. The lid interior also has foam padding for extra protection. Plus, the padded inserts are removable. So you can transport larger items that need protection.

The Nanuk 935 has a two-stage retractable handle and wheels on one end for easy mobility. It makes traveling through airports and train stations hassle-free. And it’s fairly lightweight.

It’s waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof. And the purge valve equalizes the pressure when you take the case as hold luggage. Safety isn’t a problem. You can padlock the case using the two built-in latches.

The Nanuk 935 is a great all-around hard camera case . It’s durable and easy to transport. So it’s one of the best camera cases for traveling photographers.

4. Pelican 1560 Roller Case

The Pelican 1560 roller case is another top camera case from Pelican. If you see the name Pelican, you can be sure you have a case made for rough handling. It can hold a boatload of equipment. And it’s suitable for longer journeys.

The exterior size (L x W x D) measures 22 x 17.4 x 10.9 inches (56 x 45.5 x 26.5 cm). The interior is 19.7 x 11 x 7.6 inches (50.5 x 38 x 22.7 cm). No matter what photography gear you need to pack, it’s big enough for a long trip.

Protection is what this case is all about. It’s waterproof and crushproof, even meeting the standards for the US military. The equalization valve stabilizes pressure inside the case and keeps water out.

The Pelican 1560 has a firm foam interior. It’s called Pelican’s Pick ‘n’ Pluck foam. It lets you customize the interior to meet your needs. So you can create a perfectly sized pocket for each camera, lens, and accessory.

The wheels and extendable handle make travel comfortable and easy. The 1560 is a reliable and robust hard camas case for a hard life on the road. It isn’t the cheapest option, but you always get your money’s worth with Pelican.

5. SKB iSeries 1309-6

The SKB 3i-1309 is one of the smaller cases on this list. But SKB makes no compromises when it comes to the build quality. It’s a handheld hard case that offers fantastic protection for your photography gear.

The interior (L x W x D) measures 13.7 x 9.2 x 7.5 inches (34.8 x 23.4 x 19.1 cm). This is enough to store a DSLR or mirrorless camera . You can also pack two extra lenses and other accessories. And you still won’t have a cramped case.

When it comes to protection, the SKB 3i-1309 has military-grade toughness. The outer hardcase is extremely tough. The gasket seal makes it completely watertight. And the foam inserts and lid protector keep your equipment safe.

The SKB iSeries 3i-1309 is a brick. Small cases don’t get much tougher than this. It’s perfect for short trips and small enough to take as hand luggage if you need to fly. Considering this camera case’s tough and reliable, the price is very reasonable.

6. Manfrotto Reloader L55

The Manfrotto Reloader Tough L55 is made to make carrying a lot of gear easy. And, as you can tell from the name, it’s a hard case made to protect. It’s ideal for long photography trips and big productions.

The interior is big enough for several cameras with plenty of accessories and extras. The measurements (L x W x D) are 22 x 14.8 x 8.9 inches (55 x 35 x 20 cm). The padded interior is included, and you can adjust the Velcro dividers to meet your needs.

There’s no need to worry about the weight. You can easily travel using the wheels and extendable handle even when loaded with gear. It was made for life on the move, so the wheels are large and secure. And it is small enough for hand luggage.

It isn’t the cheapest case on the list. But it is spacious and secure. Manfrotto is a reliable brand that produces excellent gear. This L55 camera case is up to the job of professional photography.

7. Vanguard Supreme 53D Roller

The Vanguard Supreme 53D offers the same excellent safety and protection as the 46F. Vanguard doesn’t make bad hard camera cases. But the 53D is bigger and more spacious.

The case’s dimensions (L x W x D) are 25 x 20 x 9.5 inches (63 x 52 x 24 cm). So you don’t have to decide which cameras to take or leave behind. There’s plenty of room for all.

The padded interior section has enough pockets for all your gear and lenses. And the padded insert is removable, transforming it into a versatile hard case for travel.

The durability isn’t in question. It’s waterproof and crushproof, and it can withstand 120 kg of external pressure. There’s added safety with the padlock receptacles and thick latches.

As a larger camera case with excellent protection, the Supreme 53D is one of the best.

8. Pelican V200 (Vault)

The V200 (Vault) is another hard case from Pelican. It’s a handy little carry case with an ultra-durable design. It’s a convenient size for a camera and lens. And you can rest easy knowing your gear is safe and protected.

This case can withstand long periods in tough conditions. The moisture and dust sealing protect everything inside. It’s resistant to wet conditions. But that doesn’t mean it’ll protect your camera as you dash from one place to another in the rain.

The external dimensions (L x W x D) are 15.4 x 13 x 6.1 inches (39 x 33 x 15.6 cm). That’s enough space for a full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera. And you can squeeze a few accessories in there. It’s a handy size and won’t take up much space when traveling.

The Vault V200 comes with interior foam. You can cut the foam to fit your gear exactly. This ensures each piece of equipment has a snug compartment. Plus, they don’t move around in transit. Everything is held in place by the protective foam.

The V200 has a heavy-duty handle. The steel lock clasps keep the case tightly locked. You also have a pressure valve for air travel. It’s a small case but gives you ultimate protection.

9. Monoprice Weatherproof

This Monoprice hard case is one of the best-value camera cases on the market. It has ample storage space and offers excellent protection for your camera gear.

You can store several cameras with an interior (L x W x D) of 22 x 14 x 8 inches (55.7 x 35 x 20 cm). Plus, you can customize the interior foam.

That way, your camera bodies can have perfectly measured sections. When each piece of gear has a snug fit, there’s no need to worry about anything moving in transit.

The Monoprice camera case gives protection at temperatures as low as -40 C. And it can survive underwater for over 30 minutes without risk of leakage.

You have limited carrying options, as you only have the rubber handle. It’s comfortable enough. But it can weigh you down after a while.

This is a weatherproof hard camera case if your budget is a bit tight. It’s perhaps not as indestructible as some other hard cases. But it still offers excellent protection when you’re on the move.

10. MEIJA Portable All-Weather

The MEIJA camera case gives you strength and durability in a small package. It’s a handheld camera case for photographers who like to travel light.

The external dimensions (L x W x D) are 16 x 13 x 6.85 inches (40.6 x 33 x 17.4 cm). With camera bodies, you can only get one in there. But there is extra space for a lens or two.

The MEIJA camera case has a solid construction. It can take a beating while the foam interior keeps your gear safe. It can withstand any weather, and it’s completely waterproof.

You can customize the foam interior. Each piece of equipment has its own pocket for protection. And there’s also a pressure release valve. So you can use the case for air travel.

It doesn’t give you the same capacity as a larger case. But this all-weather MEIJA camera case is protective and easy to carry. It’s not for big professional jobs. But it’s great for everyday use.

Conclusion: Best Camera Hard Cases

If you’re a professional photographer, keeping your gear safe must be a top priority. If your camera breaks on the way to a shoot, you will be pretty useless when you arrive. Your camera is your source of income. You must keep it safe.

That’s why even more photographers use hard camera cases to transport their equipment. They’re also perfect for international work travel and everyday photo jobs .

The Pelican Air 1525 is our top camera hard case. It has the best build quality of any hard case. And the protective outer case and padded interior keep your gear safe and sound. Pelican makes cases you can trust. And it’s a convenient size for car, train, or plane travel.

• Best Suitcase Buying Guides
• Best Food in London
• London Bucket List
• Best Day Trips From London
• This Must Be The Place
• Entertainment

12 Best Travel Hard Shell Vanity Cases + FAQ

• August 6, 2023 October 24, 2023
• by Elite Travel Blog
• Travel Gear , Travel Tips

Elite Travel Blog is supported by our readers using affiliate links where we make a small commission at no extra cost to you (also helps to keep the site ad-free). Find out how we research and choose the best products for our lists .

A vanity case is an essential accessory for travellers and beauty enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re jetting off on a weekend getaway or need a compact storage solution for your cosmetics at home, finding the best vanity case requires careful consideration. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the factors to keep in mind when buying a vanity case, address frequently asked questions, and help you make an informed decision to meet your needs.

• Affordable luggage: best suitcase deals | affordable luggage brands
• Carry-on: carry-on luggage with laptop compartments | easyjet cabin bag |
• Checked luggage: checked luggage for international travel | extra large suitcases | expandable suitcases | trunk luggage
• Durable luggage: most durable luggage | zipperless suitcases | aluminium suitcases
• Luggage brands: luxury luggage brands | European luggage brands | eco-friendly suitcases | luggage with lifetime warranty
• Misc luggage: ultra lightweight suitcases | Tripp suitcases | suitcases for cruises | 2 wheel suitcases | rose gold luggage
• Suitcase reviews: Horizn Studios M5 | Level8 Voyageur | Grams(28) 154 City Pack
• Travel accessories: packing cube alternatives | travel accessories for long flights | compression suitcase packing cubes | GPS luggage tracker | passport covers | travel vanity cases | wine suitcases

• Dimensions: Height: 25 cm x width: 33 cm x depth: 14 cm – capacity: 12 L – material: ABS – zipped divider.
• The small suitcase you need to accompany you every day.
• The vanity case is a good way to store all your essentials.
• Its size will go unnoticed, the loop allows you to hang it on your suitcase.
• A very good value for money for this rigid ABS case that will prove its strength.

• Secure, two-way zip opening Branded zips Internal divider and pockets Powder-coated black hardware Adjustable, detachable shoulder strap Back sleeve fits suitcase handle Feet protect the base Top handle for easy grip

• Material: ABS
• With shoulder strap
• Dimensions: 36 x 20 x 27 cm

• Dimensions: Height: 29 cm x width: 39 cm x depth: 16 cm – capacity 19 L – material: ABS – zipped divider.

• A rigid luggage cosmetic cases made exclusively by ITACA to offer the best product at the best price. Exclusive Design.
• Vanity case luggage features a retractable top handle with a two-way zipper and anti-scratch support studs for maximum convenience.
• Carry on make up suitcase that comes with an adjustable and detachable canvas shoulder strap with an elasticated rear trolley strap for attaching to a trolley.
• A makeup suitcase with a zipped divider and various compartments is really a very complete utility product that offers good value for money.
• Measures: 33x26x14 cm Volume: 15 L Weight: 0.80 kg. Material: anti-scratch textured ABS.

• ADDITIONAL PROTECTION: Protective knobs in the bottom
• TRANSPORT: Rubber grab handle for easy lifting
• LOCK: Zipper
• INSIDE: Main compartment with adjustable inner straps to minimise movement; pocket with a zip closure
• DIMENSIONS: (H x W x D): 30x34x16 cm, weight: 1 kg, volume: 15 L. These dimensions also include external parts such as handles and wheels. Dimensions are approximate and may vary by +/- 5%.

• Beauty case 29 x 21 x 15 cm. Made of ABS, a light and resistant material
• Two compartment, a mirror and a pocket
• Back band to adapt it to the trolley.
• Multiple ways of use: on the shoulder or adapted to the trolley.
• By Next Door.

• Travel Case Size – 30 x 15x 24cm/11.81 x 5.9 x 9.44inch.Package includes: 1x Makeup Travel Case (Cosmetic Accessories are not included)
• Premium Material – This travel makeup case is made of high-quality thicken ABS and sturdy metal zipper. It’s sturdy, waterproof, scratch-resistant, shockproof and easy to clean
• Convenient Design – With elastic band on the back, it is convenient to put on the pole of the suitcase.Freeing your hands to hold your family ‘s hand and making it easy and enjoyable to travel.This Makeup Bag has a compartment for different requests of storage
• Perfect Travel Makeup Case – This Makeup Bag is perfect to storage your lipstick, makeup brushes, eyeshadow, hairbrushes, skin care products, nail polish, nail art tools, shampoo, bath supplies etc
• Multifunctional Makeup Case – This Makeup Bag not only can storage your cosmetics, but also personal belongings, like underwear, bras, socks, toiletries, shaving kit, jewelry, valuable objects etc

• HANDLING: Comfortable handle for easy lifting; rear strap secures a bag to your suitcase; detachable, adjustable shoulder strap
• INSIDE: Interior divided into two sections: main compartment with two open side pockets; zipped compartment with two open side pockets
• ADDITIONAL PROTECTION: Protective studs in the base
• DIMENSIONS: (H x W x D): 24x32x17 cm, weight: 0,74 kg. The dimensions also include external parts such as handles and wheels. Dimensions are approximate and may vary by +/- 5%.

• ADDITIONAL PROTECTION: Protective studs in the bottom
• TRANSPORT: Strap on the rear which makes it attachable to suitcase handle; adjustable, detachable shoulder strap
• INSIDE: Two open pockets and one zipped pocket; compartment with adjustable inner straps to minimise movement; zipped compartment
• DIMENSIONS: (H x W x D): 26x30x16 cm, weight: 0,75 kg, volume: 10 L. These dimensions also include external parts such as handles and wheels. Dimensions are approximate and may vary by +/- 5%.

Matching vanity cases and suitcases

• 📏Dimensions : 24 Inch: 65cm x 39cm x 23cm, capacity 55 litres
• 📏Vanity : 15 Inch: 25cm x 33cm x 14xm, 12 litres
• 🧳Multi-directional silent spinner wheels can move in any directions for easy mobility
• 🦾Telescopic handle to push or pull your luggage easy
• 🔒The 3 digit combination lock keep your valuables secure.

• Dimensions 12″: 28x21x15cm (All Parts). Weight: 0.67kg. Dimensions 20″: 55x40x22cm(All Parts). Capacity: 38L. Weight: 2.5kg. This Kono 2 piece luggage set is perfect for weekend getaways or short business trips. Featuring one 20 inch hand luggage (meet carry on size restrictions of most airlines such as Ryanair, Delta, British Airways etc) and one 12 inch portable carrying case for storing toiletries, cosmetics, small items, and various personal items.
• Material: The protective hard shell is made of high quality and scratch-resistant ABS material. The surface of the suitcase is shiny, tough, resistant to pressure, waterproof and easy to clean. We offer a replacement service covering all manufacturing defects in 2 years so you can buy with confidence and peace of mind.
• TSA Lock + 4 Silent Spinner Wheels: The side-mounted integrated TSA number lock which allows only the airport security staff with a special key to inspect your bags without force opening damaging the suitcase when traveling, ensuring your belongings are security in your luggage. This stylish suitcase also features multidirectional silent spinner wheels to ensure gliding through the busy airports or train stations smoothly and quietly.
• Telescopic Handle + Short Handle: The telescopic handle is easy maneuverability when extended out from the suitcase and stores conveniently inside when not in use; and you can even place small bags and essentials on top. The soft touch top and side carry handles can be handy when lifting the suitcase with heavy weight.
• Organized Compartment Design: The suitcase is designed with two spacious, fully-lined compartments allow for double-sided packing. Feature adjustable packing strap on one side to hold clothes and contents in place and a large zipped divider on the other side to store smaller items and documents. The portable travel case special designed a zipper mesh pocket on one side to help items in a good order and easily accessible.

• Dimensions : 24 Inch: 65cm x 39cm x 23cm, capacity 55 litres ▪ Vanity : 15 Inch: 25cm x 33cm x 14xm, 12 litres
• Multi-directional silent spinner wheels can move in any directions for easy mobility
• Telescopic handle to push or pull your luggage easy
• The 3 digit combination lock keep your valuables secure.
• Lightweight and durable ABS hard shell is waterproof ▪ The fully lined interior and the multi-use organizational pockets make packing clothes easy.

• PACK THE MAX: At Aerolite, we understand it’s frustrating when you can’t pack everything you want. That’s why we specifically designed this set to be the MAXIMUM allowed for Ryanair. It also is accepted on easyJet, Lufthansa, Norwegian, Jet2 and More! (Please check your airline before flying. May require Cabin Upgrade for Ryanair & Wizz Air). Dimensions: 55x40x20cm (All Parts), 49x40x20cm (Body). Weight: 2.8kg. Capacity: 40L
• TAKE THE STRAIN OUT OF TRAVEL: Just getting to and from your final destination can be frustrating enough – your luggage shouldn’t add to that stress. This stylish cabin case features 4 spinner wheels, providing a full 360 degrees of manoeuvrability and allowing the suitcase to roll along comfortably alongside you, eliminating the strain of pushing or towing. With a height-adjustable retractable handle there’s no need to strain your back; and you can even place small bags and essentials on top.
• CARRY BY HAND, WEAR ON YOUR SHOULDER, OR MOUNT OVER LARGER LUGGAGE: The HOLD611-322 is highly adaptable. It features two handles on the top with a velcro clasp to carry by hand. If you prefer to wear your bag on your shoulder, it includes a detachable length-adjustable non-slip shoulder strap for convenience. Or if you’re travelling with a larger cabin case or hold luggage, it features a dedicated mounting strap on the rear – allowing you to mount the bag over your extendable trolley handle.
• DUAL ZIP CLOSURE: The holdall features two openings for convenience. The main opening runs across the entire length of the bag; and can be used when packing/unpacking. It also features a handy U-Shaped opening on the top of the bag; which can be used to quickly access your essentials (such as passports, travel documents or other travel essentials), without having to open the bag up fully or items spilling out. Both feature dual-zip closure, which can be locked shut for security if required.
• OUTSTANDING 2 YEAR WARRANTY: Aerolite pride themselves on the quality and durability of their hard-shell cabin luggage cases and bags; so much so that they offer a 2-year warranty replacement service covering all manufacturing defects – so you can buy with absolute confidence!

• 【HIGH QUALITY FINISH】 Made of premium ABS material for hard shell, which makes the luggage more durable, lighter and impact-resistant. Features brushed matte and metallic material finish to prevent scratches, keeping cases still beautiful after a trip. All the accessories are configured with the same colour to make the overall appearance of the luggage case look more attractive and will make you stand out from the crowd.
• 【4 PIECE SUITCCASE SETS】Dimensions 13″: 30x21x16cm. Weight: 0.7kg. Dimensions 20″: 54x34x22cm. Capacity: 34L. Weight: 2.4kg. Dimensions 24″: 62x43x26cm. Capacity: 57L. Weight: 3kg. Dimensions 28″: 72x49x31cm. Capacity: 92L. Weight: 3.9kg. The luggage set fits inside each other to save maximum space. The back of the cosmetic travel case is designed with a fixed belt structure that allows it to be linked to the trolley case. You can use different combinations according to your needs.
• 【360° SPINNER WHEELS+TELESCOPING HANDLE】 Kono suitcase features 4 spinner wheels providing a full 360 degrees of manoeuvrability, which will make your trip easier and enjoyable. Feature an adjustable telescopic handle system with comfort grip, which allow the suitcase to be well in hand; and you can even place handbag and essentials on top.
• 【TSA LOCK & YKK ZIPPER】 The top mounted TSA lock which allows only TSA agents to inspect your bags without damaging the lock when travelling. It is also equipped with YKK zipper that is not easy to be pierced by sharp tools, such as pens, providing better protection for the contents and privacy of your suitcase. We offer TWO YEAR guarantee replacement service covering all manufacturing defects.
• 【ORGANIZED COMPARTMENTS】 The full-lined capacity of this hand luggage design with two large compartments for double-sided packing; a full zipped divider pocket for anything you want to keep separate, a mesh pocket for your documents and the garment restraint strap can keep your personal belongings place while travelling.

Factors to Consider when Buying a Vanity Case

Size and capacity.

The size of the vanity case should align with your storage needs. Consider how many cosmetics, toiletries, and accessories you’ll be carrying. A compact case is ideal for short trips, while larger cases are suitable for longer journeys or those who require an extensive makeup collection.

Material and Durability

Opt for a vanity case made from durable materials such as hard-shell ABS plastic, aluminium, or high-quality leather. These materials offer excellent protection for your cosmetics, ensuring they remain safe and undamaged during transit.

Compartments and Organization

A well-organized vanity case is essential for easy access to your cosmetics and prevents them from getting jumbled. Look for cases with dividers, trays, and elastic loops to keep your items neatly arranged.

Portability and Handle

If you’re a frequent traveller, choose a vanity case with a sturdy and comfortable handle for easy carrying. Some models also come with detachable shoulder straps or rolling wheels for added convenience.

Security Features

Ensure your vanity case has a reliable locking system to keep your valuable cosmetics secure. Combination locks or secure latches provide peace of mind during your travels.

Design and Aesthetics

The design and appearance of the vanity case matter, especially if you value aesthetics. Choose a case that reflects your personal style and complements your overall travel gear.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

What is the ideal size for a travel vanity case.

The ideal size of a travel vanity case depends on your specific needs. For short trips, a small to medium-sized case with dimensions around 9-12 inches is sufficient. For longer journeys or those with an extensive makeup collection, consider larger cases ranging from 14-18 inches.

Can I use a vanity case as a carry-on during flights?

Yes, most vanity cases are suitable for carry-on luggage. However, it’s essential to check with your airline regarding size restrictions and liquid allowances for toiletries.

Are there vanity cases with built-in LED lights?

Yes, many modern vanity cases come with built-in LED lights around the mirror to provide better visibility when applying makeup in low-light conditions.

Can a vanity case hold full-sized cosmetic products?

It depends on the size and capacity of the vanity case. Some models are designed to accommodate full-sized products, while others are more suitable for travel-sized items or samples.

Are vanity cases with removable trays better for organization?

Vanity cases with removable trays offer more flexibility in organizing your cosmetics. You can easily customize the interior layout to fit your specific needs.

Last update on 2024-04-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

You might be interested in

The Best Bike Travel Case in 2024

Whether you are transporting your bike in your car with luggage and other items or on an airplane at the mercy of baggage handlers, a bike travel case protects your bike and the money you have invested in it.

In addition, if you are taking your bike with you, then you are planning on using it. So you are not only protecting your bike, but you are also protecting your investment in your trip. So either way, a bike travel case makes sense.

We have created a buyer’s guide to discuss the important features you should consider when choosing a bike travel case.

How To Fly With Your Bike

Packing a bike safely, dragging the bike transport bag or box around, and paying the exorbitant excess baggage fee is frustrating, but it’s part of our sport. Let’s make the experience as low-stress as possible by taking a few precautions.

There are two ways to get your bike to the race site: ship it days before, or bring it with you on the plane. Shipping your bike means packaging it and sending it via a carrier that will take large items. You can send it to a bike shop or any other physical destination that can take daytime deliveries. If timed properly your bike will be there waiting for you, perhaps assembled and ready to ride of you sent it to a bike shop. The downside is the planning involved and time without your precious training buddy.

Most athletes do take their bike on the plane with them though…

Taking it with you on the plane has its benefits and drawbacks. You’re always with your bike (unless the airline loses it); you can ride it the day you pack it and as soon as you reassemble it at the race site. On the other hand, you’ll need to find a vehicle big enough to transport the bag or box to and from the airports (perhaps a companion’s bike as well), and it’s going to cost you plenty in excess baggage charges unless it’s an international flight (note: this policy is changing on many airlines).

Like it or not, there’s an excess baggage charge on bikes for domestic flights, hopefully none for international flights if you have only 2 pieces of checked baggage. The fee has steadily risen from $12 since I began flying with a bike many years ago, to $60-$100 now. To me the high fee says that the airlines would really prefer not to take checked bikes, and this attitude often comes across through ticket agents and baggage carriers.

If you believe baggage handlers really don’t want to deal with your bike, you’ll understand why you’d better pack it carefully. I’ve seen bikes dropped from significant heights, luggage weighing hundreds of pounds loaded on top, and generally handled with contempt. This doesn’t mean that it’s always the case, but it happens.

The case you use and the care you take in packing your bike can make all the difference. There are padded nylon bags with supportive metal frames inside, hard ‘sandwich style’ cases with foam layers inside, and hard cases with a metal framework inside to secure your bike’s frame. All the different types of bike cases work well, but none is a guarantee that your bike will be impervious to damage. If you don’t want to spring for the $250 to $750+ price to buy your own bike case, look for a bike shop that rents them for a fraction of the cost.

If you’re doing the packing job yourself you’ll need some basic tools and minor disassembly/assembly skills. You’ll need to remove wheels, handlebars, seat, and pedals, then reassemble it at your destination. Teaching you how to do this is a job for a bike shop or a mechanically skilled friend, but I can give you a few packing tips.

Your goals are to crush-proof the bike and avoid metal against metal contact. If your bike case doesn’t have a supportive framework, you should put spacers where the wheels’ axles would normally be in the frame’s fork and rear triangle. This does much to strengthen the frame, thus avoiding damage from outside forces like weight or dropping the box/bag. When you remove the handlebar with brake and shift cables still attached, it will have to rest next to, or beside the frame. This is fine as-long-as it’s secured with substantial padding at contact points. I like to use old-style toe straps to keep the handlebar from moving around and potentially denting the frame or damaging paint.

I recommend that you be self-sufficient and bring all the tools you’ll need. Also bring rags for padding and cleaning, as well as lubricant, a pump, spare tubes and tires. Bike cases allow room for other items that may not fit into your luggage. Use this space as needed for your gear, but don’t overload, as very heavy bike cases make for irate baggage handlers!

Allow extra time when checking-in with your bike. Bicycle transport bags and cases move more slowly than normal luggage on their way to the plane and ticket agents are often baffled when presented with a passenger traveling with a bike (if you’re lucky, they may not charge you).

Make sure you have an extra day at your destination before the race. For whatever reason, bikes often don’t make it there with you. But, every airline I’ve flown with has a policy of delivering the bike for free to you at your destination.

For me, luckily, this has always occurred within 24 hours of my arrival. If the bike doesn’t make it with your other luggage, don’t panic. I’ve found that the more connections you make, the more likely your bike will get ‘lost.’ On flights with connections, my bike has been ‘delayed’ about 20% of the time!

In many years of flying with my bike, it’s always made it to my destination – eventually. But just in case it doesn’t and you’re waiting there in a panic, make an alternative plan. Maybe you could borrow a friend’s bike who’s in another race, or perhaps a loaner/rental from a local bike shop could save the day. Traveling with your bike is a drag, but it could be worse: Be glad you don’t have to travel with a surfboard or a kayak!

How to choose bike travel case

Bike bag or bike box.

The first choice is whether you want a bicycle transport bag or box, and by box, we mean a hard case, not a cardboard box. Some people will say that they have used cardboard boxes and have not had any problems. They will say they know how to pack their bike in a cardboard box so that it is safe.

As mentioned earlier, you have money invested in your bicycle and on your trip. A hard or soft case will better protect your financial investment in your bike and your trip, provide you with a better chance of never having your bike damaged when you are traveling, and prevent you from suffering the disappointment of not having your bike available to use on your trip. So we recommend that you do not try to cut corners and use a cardboard box to transport your bicycle.

For transporting your bike, you can choose a soft bag, a hard case, or a hybrid-combination bag. Softer hybrid cases can have inserts in the base and upper frames that provide some structure and protection, or they can use the wheels to provide structure. These are still lightweight and made of soft materials. Other hybrid cases are made of the semi-rigid polymer that provides more protection and weighs a little more than the cloth of the softer versions. Hybrid cases are in the mid-price range between soft and hard cases.

Soft bike travel cases are the least expensive of the three choices. They also use less of your baggage weight allowance. Therefore, they cost less to transport by airplane than hard and hybrid cases. In addition, soft cases are easier to carry than hard cases, especially if they have more than one handle such as an over-the-shoulder strap and a hand carrier. An additional advantage of a soft case is the ability to use it for a variety of bikes if you are among the cyclists who have more than one bike. As for storage when you are not using a soft case, it can be easily folded and stored out of the way. However, soft cases do not offer as much protection as hard cases or even hybrid cases once your bicycle has left your care. So the softer the bike travel case, the more carefully you need to pack your bike.

Hard cases will protect your bike the best if the case falls, is thrown by a baggage handler, or ends up at the bottom of a stack of luggage. They have hard plastic shells with interior reinforcement. The hard plastic does make these cases more likely than soft cases to slide off elevated surfaces and fall on the floor. Since they are not as flexible as a soft case, it can be harder to get your bike parts to squeeze into open spaces in hard cases. This can be an additional issue when airport employees examine and repack your case. Hard cases also pose the problem of where to store them, both at home and when you are traveling. Additionally, hard cases are the most expensive and weigh the most, so they use more of your baggage allowance and cost the most to ship.

Many cases have built-in dropouts that help your bike stand securely in the case. You can also go to a bike shop and get the dropout protectors that were used in shipping to protect your frame in case your bike is mishandled. Another consideration is whether or not the bag you choose mounts the bicycle to the base, if it does, then you need to make sure that the axle of your bicycle is compatible with the base.

With soft bike cases weighing up to 17 pounds empty, they and most hard cases do have wheels to make it easier to handle them. Recessed wheels are better protected from damage, and wheels that can be replaced prevent your bike suitcase from becoming less functional because of a broken wheel. So be sure to check the durability of the wheels on the cases you are considering. In addition, before you are ready to pack it for a trip, check the condition of the wheels to make sure that none of them need to be replaced.

Besides the wheels, you will also need sturdy handles to help you transport your case on stairs, over curbs, and over unpaved areas. Our suggestion is to look for a case with both a sturdy top handle for carrying by hand and a sturdy shoulder strap to distribute the weight better and free your hands. Not only should the straps be sturdy, but you should check how the straps connect to the case to make sure that the connection will not break with you. Also, check to see if the straps can be easily replaced like the wheels. Additional handles on the sides will give you something to grip so that you can roll the case in tight spaces. Just as we recommended with the wheels, you should check the handles before trips to see if they need replacing.

If you are taking your case on an airplane, then locks either have to be TSA-approved or left unlocked so that airport security can examine the contents of your case. So while you are choosing a case, if the locks are not TSA-approved buy some that are TSA-approved.

Measure your bike and decide on your preferred way of packing it. With a standard 56-centimeter road bike and a normal seat post, you should be able to use most cases. Size issues arise with larger frames, integrated seat posts, and mountain bikes with full suspension. Also if you are among the cyclists that have more than one bike, you will want to make sure that the case you choose fits all your bikes.

Transporting a bike in a case can also mean considering what type of vehicle you will need to get to the airport and when you arrive at your destination. Soft cases with some disassembly can create a smaller bundle than a hard case, and you will not need a larger vehicle. Also, as mentioned earlier, hard cases present a storage issue both at home and when you are traveling

Obviously, you will be doing some amount of disassembly on your bike, and you will not want the parts just piled in the bag to scratch and bang against each other. Many cases attach the wheels to the sides of the case with quick-release skewers. Using older skewers with some padding protects your new skewers from damage. Some other cases have wheel bags. Removing the pedals and padding them is another preventive measure along with padding your tools. One recommendation for padding the various parts of your bike is pipe insulation from the hardware store.

Weight and Airline Restrictions

Remember you will not only be carrying other luggage, but you will be adding the weight of the case along with the weight of your bike and anything else you pack in the case. All of that will be calculated into your airline baggage weight limits. We suggest that you determine the weight of your bike’s case with everything packed inside. Then check the different airline policies and charges before you book your flight. Check to see if there are any airlines that transport bicycles for free . Some airlines with higher base ticket prices may be cheaper in the end when you add baggage fees.

Be sure you also check the maximum dimensions for luggage from various airlines before purchasing tickets. In addition, check for other restrictions such as how far in advance to book to be sure that the airline will accept your bike. Since working with a passenger who is traveling with a bicycle is a less common experience, when you find all of this information, print a copy of it and take it with you to the airport as proof in case an airline employee doesn’t know the company policy.

We have already mentioned several times that purchasing a good bike travel case is protecting what you have already spent on your bike and your trip. However, there is still quite a price range between good, protective cases. So you should be able to stay within your budget and protect your bike. If you choose a case at the higher end, you will get a more durable, protective case that is easier to transport. However, there are less expensive cases that provide adequate protection, although some of them may be smaller and require more disassembly of your bike. So while shopping for a case at the good price may not be the top reason for selecting a particular case, you can let it be a consideration without worrying that you might be buying a case that is not quite as good.

Packing Your Bike

As you are considering different travel cases, think about how you will disassemble and pack your bike in each case. For most cases, you will take off the wheels, the rear derailleur, the pedals, and the seat post. If you can leave the seat post, you will probably lower it down to the frame. You will also turn handlebars so that they are parallel to the frame. If you are considering removing the chainset, we advise only doing it if you are good with a spanner. Strapping removed parts to the frame keeps parts more secure and organized in your case.

Another step in packing your bike that cyclists debate is whether or not you need to deflate the tires. While it may not be really necessary, it saves the stress of dealing with an airline employee, who thinks it’s something that must be done. This final step in considering how your bike will need to be disassembled to fit in a case should help you with choosing a case.

Travel Insurance

A final recommendation is to buy travel insurance for your bike even if your case makes it unlikely that your bike will be damaged. As stated previously, you have an investment in your bicycle and your trip. Travel insurance will protect that investment so that your bike is covered and so is the part of your trip that centers around riding your bike.

The Best Bike Travel Case in 2023

1. scicon aerocomfort 3.0 tsa – best triathlon bike travel case.

The Scicon Aerocomfort travel bag was designed with input from time trial riders and triathletes. You do not need to remove the seat post or the handlebar, so your bike is out of the case and ready to ride quickly. The case measures 50.7 inch x 17.7 inch x 38.5 inch. It is lightweight at 17.64 pounds empty, which will add less to your baggage weight limit and fees.

The case is made of nylon and includes padding and rigid inserts to protect your bike. The base holds your bike upright in the case and can be used as a bike stand. It is compatible with both the quick-release and thru-axle systems. For maneuverability, the

Aerocomfort’s eight ball bearing wheels rotate 360° to help it turn corners. For security, it includes a TSA padlock that allows airline security to easily inspect the bag. It also offers a 3/4 length zipper and two wheel pockets.

2. EVOC Road Bike Bag Pro – Best Hybrid Soft/Hard Shell Bike Case

The EVOC Road Bike Bag Pro has a hybrid soft/hard shell design to help you pack and unpack your bike easily.

How easy? The only pieces you’ll need to disassemble are your wheels and pedals. The bag was designed with an extra wide wheel chassis so it’s sure to fit most road and time trial bikes.

To ensure that your precious bike is protected the case has aluminum slide rails from front to back.

All the extra protective materials sound heavy to some, but EVOC thought ahead. The travel case has clip on wheels and extra handles so you can maneuver through airports, bus and train stations, or just getting into your hotel room.

The case’s lid is made of highly durable polycarbonate and the pressure-proof P600D PU sides are strengthened with removed hard plastic rods.

Along with the bag, EVOC also provides a bike stand, wheel bags, and a clip-on front wheel for those who want a little extra protection.

If you travel by plane, the bag has a TSA approved lock if they need to look in your bag.

Bikers who have bought the bag like it because it’s makes packing their bike easy. There’s minimal assembly because it’s a soft and hard traveling case. And, when not in use, the bag can be folded up and stored in a discreet spot. It’s not the best for overseas trips but the bag is ideal for short trips close by.

I’d recommend this bike bag if you frequently travel within your country or make short trips with your bike. The case will be perfect and you can be assured your bike will be in good hands.

3. Evoc Bike Travel Bag – Most Versatile Bike Travel Case

The size of a case is one of the most important factors. How much will you have to disassemble your bike for it to fit in the case? If you are among the cyclists that have more than one bike, will this case fit all your bikes? How will the case fit in your car, and how will it fit in a vehicle when you reach your travel destination? Where can you store it both at home and on a trip?

This case measures 53.2 inches x 31.5 inches x 15 inches. The weight of the case packed with your bike is not only something you have to manage with other luggage, but it will also be calculated into your baggage weight limit and baggage fees. This soft case weighs 18.9-pounds empty.

When Evoc was designing this case, they took into consideration the extra protection provided by a hard case versus the weight, maneuverability, and pliability of a soft case. They chose to create a soft case. The Evoc bike travel bag is made from rip- and tear-resistant ripstop nylon with a polyurethane coating that provides water-resistance. It has 10-millimeter padding and rubber reinforcement to protect your bike. This bike bag provides a full-zippered enclosure, a zippered pocket on the front, several handles, two wheel bags, an accessory bag, and 2.5-inch inline skate wheels with reinforced wheel pockets.

To fit your bike in this bag, take off the wheels, turn the handlebars parallel to the frame, and use the padded straps provided to secure your bike in the bag. Place the wheels in their bags. This bag will easily hold 29-inch bikes, road bikes, time-trial bikes, and cyclocross bikes

4. Thule RoundTrip Transition – Most Protected Bike Travel Case

Thule makes hard-shell bike cases that make it one of the most protective cases on the market. It would be a good choice for those who travel internationally with bikes for pleasure or races.

The bike’s safety is guaranteed since the bike case is made from ABS shell with a durable rail of lightweight aluminum. This construction cradles and protects your bike during transport.

This would be especially important during air transport since bag attendants never handle any luggage with care.

Additionally, the bike case has multiple functions and can be used as a bike holder and work stand. If you bring your own tools, it would save you a trip to the bike store after landing. You can adjust and assemble your bike. And, it would ensure your bike is put together properly.

The inside of the case has a built-in fork mount that makes it easy to disassemble and assemble your bike.

As this is a hard-shell case, it won’t be easy to lug around everywhere. Luckily, the case comes with wheels and handles which makes it less burdensome to “carry” around an airport.

Bikers like it because it’s easy to travel with on planes. And, is easy to use once they understand how everything works. The case does a great job of packing everything in so nothing gets damaged- no matter how the airlines treat it. And, most didn’t have a problem wheeling the case around the airport.

I highly recommend this for people who go on long journeys with their bikes. You’ll see all the damage done to the case and your bike will come out unharmed.

5. Scicon AeroTech Evolution X TSA Hard Case

The Scicon AeroTech Evolution X TSA hard bike case offers bikers padded protection and enough space for all the bike parts while being lightweight. Of course, there is minimal disassembly on your part when you need to travel with your bike.

The case was specifically designed for race bikes and can accommodate nearly every bike size.

Inside the case, you’ll find a suspended frame system that holds the bike in place while offering stability and protection. Just like what a seatbelt does for you.

The case has special storage space for your pedals, saddle, and wheels when you take apart your bike. To make things easier, you won’t need to remove your handlebars. However, you will need to loosen them and turn them to ensure they fit into your bike box.

If you travel by plane, the case is built with TSA approved key locks. This ensures that your bike is safe and customs has access to the bike if needed. This holds true for airports in the USA, Canada, and other major international airports.

Yes, the case sounds bulky and heavy and hard to move, but no fear. Even for the smallest triathletes out there, it’s easy to travel with. The wheel system rotates in a circle so it ensures your bike case won’t fall down and you’ll silently traverse the airport terminals.

I recommend this bike case if you need one that will last for years and is durable. There is some disassembly required for this case. Be sure you’re comfortable with that part before you buy it.

6. Thule RoundTrip Pro XT Bike Case

First, measure the parts of your bike or bikes that you intend to leave in one piece when you are traveling. Then check the sizes of the different cases to make sure they are large enough.

The Thule RoundTrip Pro XT Bike Case measures 49.5 inches x 11.8 inches x 35 inches. Now calculate the weight of the items that you will be packing in your bike case and add that to the weight of the empty cases. This is what you will be transporting to and from the airport and your hotel. It will also be included in your baggage weight limit and fees. The Thule RoundTrip case weighs 19-pounds empty.

This soft case is made from durable ripstop nylon with aluminum supports and can be used for road bikes, cyclocross bikes, and mountain bikes with a 46-inch wheelbase or less. It offers four integrated wheels, five integrated handles, and two 29-inch wheel bags. Since it is a soft case, when it is not in use, it folds up compactly for easy storage.

7. B&W International Bike Guard Curv

The Bike Guard Curv® Case has been designed to provide you with the protection of a hard case at a reduced weight. This also reduces the concern of excessive baggage fees. It weighs 18.1 pounds empty without the protective inserts, which is in the range of soft cases. With the protective inserts, its weight only goes up to 24 pounds, which does not take that much extra off of your airline baggage weight limit for you to skip receiving the extra protection of a hard case. The Bike Guard Curv® uses self-reinforced polypropylene (PP) Curv®-material. It is weatherproof, scratch-resistant, eco-friendly, and 12 times stronger yet lighter than ABS plastic.

The two sides are not attached but instead interlock. This protects the case from “slide-by” compression. For storage, the two sides can be nested inside of each other, which saves space, especially in a hotel room. The case can be packed with only one of the two pieces. This case was designed for 29-inch mountain bikes, road bikes, and triathlon bikes. The Bike Guard Curv® has two fixed wheels and two free-rolling wheels. The four handles give you the option of two carrying handles, a handle for pulling, and another adjustable handle for pulling. A TSA pad-lock can be attached to lock the case.

The interior inserts include two wheel guards, foam padding for between the frame and the wheels, a rear derailleur protector, a foam spacer for the handlebar, a foam block for the chainring, and four frame accessory bags.

8. BIKND Helium V4

The BIKND Helium V4 bike case is a light and easy-to-carry case with air protection.

To ensure maximum protection, the bike has inflatable padding which is truly one of a kind.

And, what makes this case even more unique is its size. It’s the smallest bike case with the most protection. It can fit in the trunk of the smallest cars.

The case was designed with additional compartments for all your bike accessories and even an extra wheel set.

Although it is small, you won’t have to disassemble your bike that much.

Like the EVOC case, this one uses both soft and strategically placed hard materials to make it incredibly protective at a low weight.

The inflatable parts of the case are on both sides of the frame and give the same protection as a hard case but without the extra weight.

Bikers like this bag because it is light weight with strong protection technologies, which make it easy to fly with. The bag opens 360 degrees which makes it easy to pack and unpack the bike. It’s compatible with most road bikes which makes it useful for a triathlon family.

I’d recommend this bag once the company fixes the airbag technology issues. There have been reports of the bags not staying inflated for the entire journey.

9. PRO Mega Bike Travel Case

The PRO Mega Bike Travel Case is a larger soft case. The size makes it quick and easy to pack, including just dropping the seatpost. The large size leads to a debate over whether you need to remove the handlebars or not. Some just loosen the handlebars and turn them parallel to the frame. The PRO Mega Bike Case measures 51 inches x 10 inches x 30 inches.

Despite its size, this bag does not weigh that much more than the other soft cases. Even with all the packing inserts included, this case only weighs 18.1 pounds empty.

The hard plastic base with the aluminum frame and the packing inserts are the highlights of this bag. There are also two plastic poles at each end to add support to the bag. The base has movable brackets for attaching the front and rear axles. Since the brackets can be moved, you can adjust them for your bike’s wheelbase. The maximum wheelbase that can be accommodated is around 47 inches.

You take off the wheels and secure the dropouts to the base using your skewers. If you have some old skewers, you do not need to put your current skewers at risk. There are straps to hold the skewers in place. The brackets have two levels for attaching your bike. The lower level is intended for taller bikes and mountain bikes. There is a chain holder on the rear bracket that keeps the chain under pressure along with a chain cover.

The packing inserts feature large padded blocks that can be Velcroed where needed, including two for the head and seat tube junctions on the frame.

This case is made with foam-padded, ripstop nylon. There are pockets on the side for the wheels and accessories. Inside there is a mesh bag for accessories. It has multiple handles and four wheels that can rotate 360°. These type wheels can be hard to control especially on unpaved or uneven surfaces. The extra handles can be helpful, but you will also have other luggage.

In our product reviews, we presented four soft cases and one hard case. In our buyer’s guide, we recommended that, because of your investment in your bike and your trip, other issues were more important than cutting corners on the cost of a case. So for the best protection, a hard case is really the best choice. However, spending a little more to get a better case is a one-time expense. Transporting a hard case will mean an excess baggage fee every time you travel with a hard case. That is one reason that we are choosing a soft case as our top choice.

However, we reviewed the B&W International Bike Guard Curv® Hard Bike Case which, as one of the lightest hard cases, can reduce the excess baggage fee. It also eliminates the issue of the space needed to store it because it has two sides that can nest inside of each other. However, it does not offer enough internal restraints to keep your bike secure, and the two interlocking sides are complicated to restrap. Airport security may not restrap this case once they inspect it. That is another reason that we have chosen a soft case.

Our recommendation is still to get travel insurance that will provide you with coverage on your bike for loss, damage, or misdirection, including replacement so you have a bike for the portion of your trip during which you planned to use your bike. Then you are covered even when using a soft case.

After comparing the four soft cases, we have chosen the Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 TSA as the winner. The base provides adjustable brackets for attaching your bike that accommodates different wheelbases and bike heights. It holds your bike securely and has a chain holder that keeps tension on your chain and derailleur. The base has large foam blocks that use Velcro, so they can be placed wherever they are needed to protect your bike. It is also the case that helps you pack your bike the quickest which is most important when you are at your destination. To us, all of this makes the Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 TSA the top choice.

15 thoughts on “The Best Bike Travel Case in 2024”

Thanks, well written and useful!

Soft vs. Hard

American Airlines flies bicycles as regular luggage now, but states that if the bicycle is not in a hard-sided case it will be subject to “Fragile Handling”.

Is there a hard case for tri-bikes where you do not need to takeoff the handlebars and/or aero bars?

I know only next bike cases where you do not need to takeoff the handlebars: Evoc Pro bag and Scicon Aerocomfort Triathlon 3.0, but the Scicon is a soft case.

alan triathlon hard case, nothing to dismantle

is it available case and light weight bike made for exact fit?

For more options where you can leave handlebars on, have a look at the large aluminium Buxum Bike box, or the brand new Evoc Pro bag

Hello, I have a size 44 Trek Domane with clip on aerobars. Any recommendations for a hard bike case that will let me leave pedals, saddle, handlebars on? Or as much as possible! Thanks!

Hi Megan, Closest I can think are not hard cases: – Scicon TSA Tri Bike bag; – new Evoc Road Pro. I have the Scicon and I basically pop the wheels off my bike, set it in the bag, attach the padding, zip it and go. Please note that some airlines are requiring that handlebars are removed before accepting it regardless of what the bike case allows.

The Scicon looks like a good case but people have posted photos of broken frames when using the soft one versus the hard one.

I just flew back to NYC with my road bike in the Scicon TSA Tri Bike bag – easy to maneuver and plenty of room inside to pack all my bike and running gear and clothes – I basically didnt bring an extra luggage – bike survived the trip.

I loosensed the brake handles a bit as advised by some tri friends –

Surprised you didn’t include BikeboxAlan. Most common case I see at events, which is why I bought mine and love it.

the best one and with 7 years guarantee

I frequently use Fedex to ship my bicycling to avoid the problem of it not fitting in a rental car. Do you think any of the softsided /hybrid cases would be suitable for shipping by Fedex? Thank you, Jay

I have a carbon recumbent. Any recommendations in a cases?

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Activity + Adventure
• Winter Sports

The 5 Best Ski Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested the best ski bags out there, focusing on portability, durability, and capacity.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Lydia and Bill Price

When it comes to traveling with skis, it’s crucial to have a durable and protective ski bag to protect them from potential harm. Whether you’re schlepping skis through an airport or loading them into a car, the right ski bag will make the transportation process much easier and get you out on the slopes faster.

We (as first-track fiends) tested 12 different ski bags from trusted outdoor gear brands to find the best of the best for your next adventure into the mountains. Paying close attention to traits like durability, portability, and the design of each bag, we deemed five bags worthy of earning top testing scores. No matter which mode of transportation you use to go skiing, we trust that these five bags will ensure your gear arrives at the ski hill ready to shred.

Best Overall

Thule roundtrip ski roller bag.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

The material feels exceptionally durable, and the bag comes with multiple straps, a separator for added protection, and tip guards that double as stuff sacks. 

The smallest size is a little too spacious for just one pair of skis.

Thule’s RoundTrip Ski Bag won us over for having superior durability, portability, and capacity when we used the bag for a road trip and cross-country flight. The capacity of the bag is incredibly generous — it can easily fit two pairs of skis or one pair and all of your ski gear and clothing for a weekend getaway . The interior has four straps to tie down two pairs of skis, there are two exterior compression/carrying straps, and it comes with a separator for even more protection. Padded sleeves are also included to slip over the tips or tails of your skis, and they double as cinch-top stuff sacks to help with organization. Although the 600D polyester and padded material isn’t listed as waterproof, we poured water on the bag to assess its weather-readiness and found that the material repelled the liquid instantly. 

We packed the 168-centimeter skis and poles along with tons of clothing and ski gear, and felt that the capacity might be a bit excessive for a solo skier . However, the bag was easy to wheel around thanks to the comfortable handles on the top, bottom, and side of the bag and heavy-duty wheels that took on icy bumps with ease. We also loved that the zig-zagging zipper meant it wasn’t a hassle to quickly retrieve items from the bag. On multiple cross-country flights, our checked skis have been seamlessly protected, and clothes also packed inside remained completely dry despite the bag facing rain on the tarmac. For easy storage, the Roundtrip Ski Roller can be folded down, except for a short section at the bottom that's reinforced with hardware.

The Details: 175 centimeters and 192 centimeters | 600D polyester | Wheeled bag

Travel + Leisure / Lydia Price

Travel + Leisure / Bill and Lydia Price

Best Hardside

Sportube series 1 travel case.

The thick plastic shell feels extremely hardy, especially for checking skis in while flying. 

The latches can be difficult to line up for closing the case.

The hardshell Sportube Series 1 Travel Case is the best alternative to a traditional soft-sided bag, and we love the security both for traveling and while on the mountain. The sleek tube-shaped case is made out of recycled HDPE plastic and it has padding on both ends to ensure that the tips and tails of your skis won’t scrape the shell. The high durability would be the most ideal travel case if you fly often, as there are straps inside the bag to keep items from shifting, and it's adjustable for the height of your skis. The case is easy to hold with the handles, and it can be wheeled, too. Keep in mind that although there are straps to hold down skis in the case, the skis move around a bit while carrying, so you may want to pack a few clothing items in the tube for extra security if you’re traveling a far distance. 

The Details: One size, 212 centimeters | Recycled HDPE | Wheeled bag

Travel + Leisure / Frances Crouter

Best Organization

Evo deluxe snow roller bag.

The bag has three large pockets and it comes with a boot bag.

The exterior got slightly scuffed on its inaugural flight.

Evo's Deluxe Snow Roller Bag made it easier than ever to pack for a ski trip thanks to the plethora of pockets. We were able to fit our ski boots and most of our ski gear and clothing for a week-long ski trip to Utah between the two external pockets, one internal pocket, and a separate boot bag included with the ski bag. We tried the 165-centimeter ski bag, and it was the ideal size for making the most out of paying for a checked bag. The two external pockets are massive and can easily accommodate bulky clothing like puffer jackets and sweaters, and the packed pockets add extra padding to the already protective and cushioned design of the bag. During the first flight, the top of the bag got lightly scuffed but the skis (secured with two straps) and other packed items remained unscathed by the rough baggage handling.

The Details: 165, 175, 195 centimeters | Recycled PET Ripstop | Wheeled bag

Best Padding

Element equipment wheeled double padded ski bag.

• Portability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

Surrounded by thick padding to protect skis, this bag also benefits from sturdy wheels and a tough exterior. 

It was a little awkward to roll due to the long length.

We love that the Element Equipment Double Ski Bag has thick padding on all sides for extra protection on the go. The bag is made with 600D ripstop polyester that felt noticeably tough and durable as soon as we unboxed the ski bag. After regular use, there are no frayed seams, no issues with the zippers, and no problems with the wheels. There is one built-in strap for securing one or two pairs of skis, and we especially like the two exterior adjustable straps that make sure the skis don’t move around during transit. With several handles on the top, bottom, and sides of the bag, we found it to be a little cumbersome to roll due to its length, but the wheels felt very sturdy and smooth over a variety of surfaces like snow and gravel. If you’re in search of a bag that offers superb protection, we think this is one of the best options out there, especially for air travel.

The Details: 167 centimeters and 195 centimeters | 600D ripstop PVC-coated polyester | Wheeled bag

Travel + Leisure / Riddley Gemperlein-Schirm

Best Double

Backcountry double ski and snowboard rolling bag.

Backcountry

• Capacity 4.8 /5
• Portability 3.8 /5

It’s wide enough to fit two pairs of skis or snowboards, yet its wheels roll incredibly smoothly.

The bag is slightly cumbersome to carry because of its large size.

The Backcountry Double Ski and Snowboard Bag is the perfect bag for a couple or family of skiers . It’s designed to fit up to two pairs of skis and snowboards so you can streamline your gear into one bag with ease. The capacity of this bag is impressive: we were able to exceed the designed capacity and fit three pairs of skis and poles and a set of ski boots while keeping the weight under 50 pounds for flying. The Backcountry bag is equipped with two built-in straps and a padded divider, so no gear was damaged en route to the mountain. We found the packed bag to be slightly difficult to move around because of the large length and width, but the wheels rolled so smoothly that sometimes it even went a little too fast while going through the airport. Made with durable and waterproof PVC and nylon material, we’re confident that this bag will hold up with prolonged use. 

The Details: 190 centimeters | Nylon and PVC | Wheeled bag

Travel + Leisure / Kait Clark

Other Ski Bags We Liked

While there were plenty of ski bags that had rave reviews, one bag almost made our list but fell slightly short when a few inconveniences were noted during testing. 

Thule RoundTrip Ski Bag : While the bag has a generous capacity and feels well-made, we noticed some functionality issues like difficult zippers and awkward straps. 

We put 12 popular ski bags to the test over a period of three months. Each tester was tasked with evaluating the bag based on traits like capacity, portability, durability, and design. Whether we were road-tripping or flying to the slopes, they used these bags to protect their skis on the way to the mountain. 

After the bags arrived, we tested the zippers and examined the fabric, stitchwork, and straps to get a feel for the quality of the bag right from the start. Then, we placed our skis into the bags and packed them for a ski trip before wheeling or carrying them around to get a feel for the weight distribution, the comfort of the handles, and how the wheels rolled across surfaces. 

The most durable bags we tested are made with ample padding and heavy-duty materials that can protect the contents from rough handling. Our favorite bags for design had a variety of storage solutions like pockets or separators, straps for protection, and zippers that were smooth and sturdy. Since skis come in a variety of lengths, the highest-scoring ski bags fit all of our skis without any issues. Lastly, we were unaware of the price of each bag and only evaluated the value after testing was complete.

Tips for Buying a Ski Bag

Carefully consider size.

You’ll want to look for a bag that has a somewhat similar length as your skis so they aren’t swimming in extra space or packed in too tightly. For skiers traveling with multiple sets of different-sized skis, you’ll want to get a bag that fits your longest ski. You can easily pack ski gear or other clothing to protect the shorter skis from impact by packing the bottom of the bag and around the skis to add extra protection. 

Buy for your intended use

Ski bags can be quite pricey, so if you’re planning to use a ski bag for storage, it might be better to opt for a less-expensive bag. For frequent fliers , it’s worth it to invest in a padded bag with excellent durability and quality for protection against damage while traveling by air. 

Hard versus soft bags

While most ski bags are soft-sided, there are a few brands like Dakine and Sportube that make bags made out of thick plastic. Hard-sided ski bags often have padding at the top and bottom of the interior, but there isn’t any padding around the binding or the rest of the ski shafts, so it could be beneficial to wrap your skis in gear or other protective fabric to prevent any damage.

If you plan on flying with skis or road tripping, a padded ski bag is the best way to protect your skis. For those looking to use a ski bag just as storage, a non-padded bag works well, but keep in mind the potential for damage. 

Once you place your skis in the bag right side up on their sides, you should use the built-in straps to tie them in securely or start packing soft gear around the skis to prevent them from moving around during travel. You can use items like ski jackets, snow pants, gloves, or any other clothes you might be bringing to fill the space. Plus, it helps you maximize the space in your carry-on or weekender bag by relocating bulkier pieces to your ski bag for protection. 

Similar to travel golf bags , you can fly with ski bags as checked luggage. However, airlines all have different rules for checking in bags with skis, as they can be classified as oversized luggage. The rule of thumb for any checked bag is to keep the weight under 50 pounds to avoid any overweight fees. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at Travel + Leisure , where she writes and reviews travel products. She grew up ski racing in Bend, Oregon, and has lived in Grenoble, France, where she got to ski in the heart of the French Alps. Anna participated in this test and worked closely with our outdoor gear editor to compile the list of the best ski bags we tried.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.