travel luggage test

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.

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

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The Best Carry-On Luggage 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Travel Editors

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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Packing for a trip can be stressful, especially if you’re trying to fit everything you need into a carry-on bag. With increasingly strict airline baggage allowances and common occurrences of lost/mishandled checked bags, finding the right carry-on suitcase is key to avoiding expensive checked baggage fees and ensuring your stuff makes it to your destination. 

No one understands this struggle more than the SmarterTravel team. As travel editors, we travel a lot (and are firm carry-on only flyers.) We tested and reviewed the top carry-on luggage over hundreds of trips to help you find one perfectly suited for all your travels.

The carry-on bags we reviewed underwent rigorous testing to see how they held up to the realities of travel. We evaluated important factors like size and weight, wheeled performance, ease of packing, durability, and special features. Our testing process included packing each bag to capacity, carrying it through airports, stowing it in overhead bins, and taking it on planes, trains, and automobiles during real-world trips.

Ranging in price from affordable to splurge-worthy, the best carry-on suitcases earned top marks across all our tests for their optimal size, seamless maneuverability, handy organization, stylish looks, and resilience.

From a lightweight hard-sided spinner that fits easily in tiny overheads to a large carry-on that expands for over-packers, these are our travel editors’ picks for the best carry-on suitcases of 2024. 

Best Carry-On Suitcase Overall: Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase

The Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase was our favorite of all the carry-on suitcases we tested. This smart and sleek suitcase is made from a durable polypropylene shell that helps contribute to its light weight of 6.4 lbs. Smooth spinner wheels and an adjustable handle make this bag easy to wheel even when fully packed.

The interior is just as nice, lined with a fabric made from 100 percent plastic bottles. There’s also a multi-functional panel divider that can compress clothes to create more space while providing pockets for organization. One of the pockets is water-resistant, so you can use it to separate swimsuits or wet clothing on the journey home.

Our favorite feature of the Samsonite Outline Pro is the antimicrobial handle technology used on the trolley grip and side handles, which helps keep us healthy while traveling. 

Dimensions: 15” x 10” x 23”

Weight: 6.4 lbs

Best Large Carry-On Suitcase: Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase

If you want to test the limits of an airline’s carry-on policy, we recommend the Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase as the best large carry-on suitcase. We’ve taken this suitcase on hundreds of flights and have only ever had to check it on very small puddle-jumper planes. This roomy carry-on can hold up to 42 liters, making it a great suitcase for chronic overpackers. 

This suitcase comes with two compression boards, which can be used to divide the two halves of the suitcase and help you fit even more in. The boards have large pockets perfect for packing cords and other small items. 

We also love that all Roam luggage can be customized to suit your style—you can choose the color of every part of this suitcase, right down to the wheels, to create a unique bag that definitely won’t get mixed up at baggage claim.

Dimensions:  9” x 16.25” x 22”

Weight: 7.7 lbs

Best Expandable Carry-On Suitcase: Delsey Rempart Carry-On Suitcase

An expandable suitcase is like having two bags in one—keep it small and compact for a short trip or open it up for a longer journey (or for the return trip when you buy lots of souvenirs to bring home). Delsey’s Rempart Carry-On Suitcase is our favorite expandable bag due to its patented Securitech Zipper that’s three times more resistant than a standard zipper (so you don’t have to worry about it ripping open, even when it’s expanded to its maximum capacity).

Other thoughtful features include an integrated TSA-combination lock, two packing compartments with compression straps, zippered pockets, and a lined divider. We also love that the interior lining can be removed and washed—an innovation you’ll appreciate if you’ve ever come home with a sandy suitcase after a beach trip.

Three carrying handles allow this bag to be carried in various ways. If you have other Delsey suitcases, the Rempart’s modular design allows it to stack on top for easy carrying and storage. 

Dimensions: 13.75” x 10.25” x 21.75”

Weight: 6.7 lbs

Best Soft-Sided Carry-On Suitcase: Travelpro Maxlite 5

The best soft-sided carry-on suitcase is also one of the lightest weight options on our list. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 lives up to its name, weighing just 5.4 lbs. This model is the brand’s latest and is a full half-pound lighter than the previous iteration, the Travelpro Maxlite 5. 

The suitcase has a unique tapered design that helps prevent it from tipping over when upright (a common problem with soft-sided suitcases). It also has a solid bottom tray design that helps increase the bag’s durability. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 can expand to 2 inches to provide extra space when needed. The interior is lined with a waterproof protectant that helps keep the bag dry. 

This suitcase comes with Travelpro’s limited lifetime warranty, which will cover the cost of repairs if it’s damaged for one year after purchase. 

Dimensions: 23” x 14.5” x 9” 

Weight: 5.4 lbs

Best Luggage Trackers

Best Small Carry-On Suitcase: Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On Luggage

We love the Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On because it’s deceptively spacious for its small size and light weight. It even expands slightly to give you a little bit of extra space when you need it. We’ve packed for week-long trips with just this bag and had no issues fitting everything in. Despite the diminutive size, this suitcase is packed with organizational features, like an exterior laptop sleeve and interior zippered pockets. 

Made from 100 percent recycled, water-resistant fabric, this carry-on-sized spinner bag is easy to wipe clean and great for rainy destinations. 

The Warrior is equipped with heavy-duty wheels that allow you to roll this bag over rough terrain—a perfect pick for navigating the cobblestone streets of Europe.

Dimensions: 21.65” x 14” x 10”

Weight: 8 lbs 12 oz

The Best Hardsided Carry-On Suitcase: Away The Carry-On

Away’s The Carry-On Suitcase has won many awards and is beloved by travelers, and for good reason—it’s smartly designed. The Carry-On is Away’s smallest suitcase and will fit in most overhead compartments and pass all but the strictest baggage sizers at the gate.

This durable carry-on suitcase is crafted from 100 percent polycarbonate for maximum impact resistance. It glides smoothly on premium 360-degree spinner wheels and features a telescoping trolley handle with two height settings for ergonomic maneuvering. The water-resistant shell safeguards your belongings, while convenient features like the TSA-approved lock, laundry bag, and color-matched luggage tag help streamline your packing routine. 

Thoughtfully designed, the suitcase maximizes storage with a double-buckle compression pad and extensive interior organization like three mesh pockets and a handy hanging pocket. Reverse coil zippers grant easy access to the wide opening, and an underside grab handle aids lifting. 

As a bonus, Away’s carry-on suitcase comes in a variety of beautiful colors, including glossy and matte options. 

Dimensions: 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″

Weight: 7.5 lbs

The Best Luxury Carry-On Suitcase: Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On

The Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On is an organized packer’s dream. The design of this suitcase keeps suits, shoes, clothes, and toiletries neatly separated and wrinkle-free. Convenient amenities like the built-in USB port and built-in TSA lock maximize functionality. 

This is a great suitcase choice for business travelers, as the interior features a removable garment sleeve and fiberglass rod that allows you to hang a suit or dress inside the case without getting crushed or wrinkled. 

The Continental Dual Access features Tumi’s signature smooth-rolling wheels and a 3-stage telescoping handle for easy maneuverability. Protective features like molded bumpers and side panels guard against impacts, while built-in tracers and TSA-approved locks keep valuables secured. With options for top, side, or bottom access via well-designed zippers, this suitcase optimizes packing efficiency for several days of travel. 

Dimensions: 22.0″ X 16.0″ X 9.0″

Weight: 11.1 lbs

The Best Carry-On Backpack: L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack

A carry-on doesn’t have to be limited to a suitcase. For the ultimate in mobility, opt for a backpack as your carry-on. You won’t have to worry about climbing stairs or pulling a bag over rough sidewalks, and a backpack can fit under your seat on a full plane when necessary, avoiding the dreaded gate-check. 

Our favorite carry-on backpack is the L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack . Use it on its own for a short trip, or combine it with a checked bag (put all the essentials in the backpack and carry it on the plane) for longer journeys.  

The Approach Travel Pack opens flat and can be packed like a suitcase, unlike a traditional backpack where you’ll have to shove everything in through the top and dig through the entire bag to find something buried at the bottom.

Dimensions: 20” x 12.5” x 10”

Weight: 3.3 lbs

5 Simple Ways to Make Travel Easier in 2024

How We Tested These Carry-Ons

These are the carry-on suitcases that the SmarterTravel team uses on their own trips. We’ve taken them on countless flights, train trips, road trips, and cruises to find out the pros and cons of each bag. 

When testing a carry-on, we consider the following factors:

• Size and weight
• Ease of transportation
• Organizational features

We’ve tested out numerous suitcases that didn’t make the cut, which helped us narrow the list to the best carry-ons worth investing in. 

What Size is a Carry-On Suitcase

The dimensions for a carry-on suitcase vary by airline and generally change depending on if it’s an international or domestic flight. For flights within the United States, the most common size limit for a carry-on suitcase is 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high. 

The international carry-on suitcase size limit is usually 21.7 inches by 15.7 inches wide by 9 inches high, but this will vary by airline.

Note that airline carry-on size limits include all aspects of the suitcase, including the handles and the wheels, so be sure to check the total dimensions of your bag and not just the interior measurements. If your suitcase meets the size limit but the wheels don’t, it will not pass the carry-on sizer test.

Always check with your airline for the correct carry-on size for your trip, as it can change by destination. 

Is There a Weight Limit for Carry-Ons?

There usually isn’t a weight limit for carry-ons on domestic flights within the United States (unless you’re flying on a very small plane). However, you must be able to lift the suitcase into the overhead bin without assistance.

International flights are generally stricter with weight limits and will weigh your carry-on bag when you check-in. These weight restrictions vary quite a bit by airline but generally range from 15 to 35 lbs. 

What Can’t You Pack in a Carry-On Suitcase?

Remember, carry-on suitcases are subject to stricter security restrictions than checked bags. You can’t pack these items in carry-on suitcases, but you can pack them in your checked luggage:

• Liquids or gels bigger than 3.4 ounces
• Sharp objects (including knives, hiking poles, and large scissors) 
• Certain sporting goods (such as baseball bats and hockey sticks)
• Self-defense items (including pepper spray and brass knuckles)
• Weapons (including firearms) 

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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The Best Carry-On Luggage, Tested & Reviewed By Our Editors

By Madison Flager

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Carry-ons are arguably the piece of luggage travelers pull out most often, whether it's the only bag coming on a weekend trip or used in tandem with a checked suitcase. It also spends the most time with us in transit, which means the functionality is even more important: Are your belongings easy to get to if you need to retrieve something while waiting at your gate? Is there a space to stash whatever item you remember on your way out the door? These are a few of the things Traveler editors considered when sifting through the seemingly endless options on the market. We set out to find the best of the best—bags that are lightweight but still sturdy, have enough space to house clothes, shoes, toiletries, and accessories, and will hold up for many trips to come. After months of testing, these are the pieces we've deemed the best carry-on luggage of 2023.

What we considered:

When testing out carry-on luggage, we asked editors and contributors to consider several factors: How light a bag was on its own, how much it could fit, whether the design and organizational factors were helpful (and aesthetically pleasing), how well it held up in transit, how easy or difficult it is to roll and pick up, whether it's worth the price point, and if there are any unique features that set it apart from other carry-on suitcases or bags they've used.

This article is part of Condé Nast Traveler' s first-ever Luggage Week , for which dozens of suitcases, backpacks, and weekender bags were road-tested by our editors.

What size can a carry-on bag be?

It depends on which airline you're flying with, but typically, dimensions are limited to 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high for domestic airlines (Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, Delta, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue, and United Airlines adhere to these figures; American Airlines allows for an extra inch of height, while and Frontier Airlines and Southwest Airlines's max is 24" x 16" x 10" and Spirit Airlines's allotment is 22" x 18" x 10"). Some airlines provide a single number; dimensions must add up to that number or below to be considered compliant.

International airlines tend to have slightly different size requirements; 21.5" x 15.5" x 9" is typical, but here are some exact specifications by airline:

• Air Canada: 21.5" x 15.5" x 9"
• Air France: 21.6" x 13.7" x 9.8"
• British Airways: 22" x 18" x 10"
• Emirates: 21.6" x 15" x 8.6"
• Lufthansa: 21.6" x 15.7" x 9"
• Qatar Airways: 20" x 15" x 10"
• Singapore Airlines: 45 total inches

What can’t I take in my carry-on?

Liquids over 3.4 ounces (100mL) are not allowed in your carry-on. Additionally, firearms and other potentially hazardous items are prohibited. Check TSA's website for specific items you may have questions about.

Are carry-on bags free?

Again, it depends on which you're flying with and what kind of ticket you purchase. These airlines offer one free carry-on (and one personal item), regardless of what level ticket you bought:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines

While these airlines offer one free carry-on (and one personal item) to all travelers except those who purchased a base fare:

• United Airlines

Top recommendations:

• Best overall carry-on: Paravel The Aviator Carry-On
• Best lightweight carry-on: July Carry-On Light
• Best budget carry-on: Béis The Carry-On Roller
• Best expandable carry-on: Away Carry-On Flex
• Best softside carry-on: Travelpro Platinum Elite softside spinner

Weight: 8.2 lbs. Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9"

Pros: Glides smoothly even when fully packed, unique look and feel Cons: No external phone charger included, could use an interior pocket along the length of the bag

Luggage brand Paravel has built a dedicated following thanks to its retro Wes Anderson–style designs and use of sustainable materials. The Aviator Carry-On is no different: Available in shades like scout tan, safari green, and scuba navy, it has a recycled polycarbonate shell, recycled zippers, and an interior lining made from 15 upcycled plastic water bottles. It's a favorite of senior editor Megan Spurrell : “This is one of two carry-on roller bags I have used regularly for nearly three years—we’ve traveled everywhere from Lisbon to Mexico City to Los Angeles together.” Spurrell has used it for weeklong trips, and notes that it's still in good shape after years of use: “It has definitely gotten scratched up from being thrown into the hull of planes (I have checked it before, even though it’s carry-on), but it has held up well otherwise—there are no cracks in the shell, zipper issues despite how much I have stuffed it, nor sticky wheels.” The one minor flaw: The top handle placement is a bit counterintuitive, placed on the side of the suitcase further from your body.

Weight: 8.36 lbs. Dimensions: 23" x 16" x 10"

Pros: Comfortable handle, fairly easy to clean Cons: Although the beige color is incredibly pretty, it gets dirty very quickly; I would recommend a darker color

With a pretty, ribbed design and thoughtful features like a cushioned silicone grip on the handle, you wouldn't guess this is one of the most affordable suitcases on our list. It's been tested by commerce producer Paris Wilson , who used it to pack for her and her boyfriend on a weeklong trip to the Florida Keys; with the help of the expandable zipper, it fit at least 14 outfits as well as four pairs of shoes and two purses. The wheels have stood up to bumpy roads—“We live in downtown Manhattan where cobblestone streets are a staple and we still managed to make it to the subway without any hangups”—and the included pouches come in handy for dirty clothes or even souvenirs. “I’m tempted to buy the remaining luggage to create a set; I would recommend this to anyone who's interested in building their luggage collection but might not know where to start.”

Weight: 7.9 lbs. Dimensions: 23" x 15" x 9.5"

Pros: Durable wheels, easy to lift, compression straps Cons: Because of its size, it may be checked on smaller planes or flagged to be checked on planes at full capacity

Away recently upgraded a few of its core suitcases, including The Bigger Carry-On. Updates include an additional zipper compartment, a color-matched interior made of recycled polyester, and an underside grab handle for easy overhead bin lifting. Tested by editorial assistant Jessica Chapel , who has taken it on a flight to New Mexico, a bus ride to New Jersey, and in cars on weekend trips from New York, it's one of the lighter bags on the list at under eight pounds. Compared to her previous suitcase, “It does wonders. Prior to this luggage I often traveled with a checked bag. I can fit almost as much in this suitcase, and it's way more practical—and feels more swift, given the 360-degree wheels.”

Weight: 3.9 lbs. Dimensions: 21" x 14" × 7.5"

Pros: I enjoy the ease with which you can move this piece of luggage around; it feels very zippy Cons: The telescopic handle sometimes sticks

July calls this the lightest double-wheel suitcase in the world, and it is the lightest we've tested here at Traveler at just under four pounds when empty. Research director Alexandra Sanidad has brought it on planes to Phoenix, Arizona, and Portland, Oregon, and on an Amtrak to Woodstock, New York; she says “it's very cute and fits nicely in tight spaces,” and is a “good price for a sturdy, colorful, functional suitcase.” As for what it fits, light packers can fit a week’s worth of clothing in here; if you’re bringing multiple day and night outfits, plan for a weekend’s worth.

Weight: 11.1 lbs. Dimensions: 22" x 16" x 9"

Pros: Extremely functional and stylish, glides smoothly even when full Cons : It’s a little large for a carry-on; I've had to check it twice so far

Tumi bags are an investment—at over $1,000, this is one of the priciest bags on our list of the best carry-on luggage—but for frequent business travelers or those looking for a lifelong investment piece, it might be the bag for you. It's gone with former Traveler editor Alex Erdekian on trips to Mexico, Italy and France, a bachelorette party at Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire, and Boston. She calls it “the most beautiful suitcase I’ve owned,” and appreciates the “zipper expansion that drastically increases the depth of the suitcase,” as well as the “sneaky zipper around the front that allows you to pull out clothes quickly.” It is one of the heavier bags on the list, though, and Erdekian says she's had difficulty lifting it overhead when full. Also of note: It comes with a five-year warranty, and can be customized with a monogram or set of “pop of color” accessories.

Weight: 6.53 lbs. Dimensions: 21.5" x 15" x 9.5"

Pros: Budget-friendly, very lightweight Cons: Since its design is pretty plain, it's not the most aesthetically pleasing suitcase on our list

This hardside carry-on with spinner wheels and a built-in TSA lock has racked up rave reviews on Amazon, like this one: “It fit an odd amount of stuff in it. It's like a clown car. It has compartments and zippers that keep things separate and organized. It holds up well and is really good looking. It's absolutely worth every penny. I'm purchasing more for the rest of the family.” Traveler editor Meaghan Kenny agrees, calling it an overpacker's dream bag. The hardside spinner comes in black, navy, bright blue, and orange.

Weight: 8.1 lbs. Dimensions: 23" x 15" x 10.3"

Pros: The front zipper is such a plus, with lots of sections for organizing Cons: The color range isn’t huge—I wish they alternated in more shades

This Arlo Skye zipper-front suitcase has gone on many trips with Spurrell —she alternates between this and a Paravel carry-on, and this one has been to Peru, upstate New York, and Montauk: “I take it as a carry-on for most flights—from weekend trips to weeklong getaways—because it’s surprisingly roomy, with an organized front pocket that I can easily stow essentials like my laptop, book, and magazines in.” Sleek yet durable, it comes with a removable charger (boasting both USB C and USB A ports), two shoe bags, a laundry bag, and a cotton storage cover. The aesthetics are a plus, too: “I love the design of this bag—it feels like a reliable, sleek rolling bag, with design you’ll never get tired of.”

Weight: 7.8 lbs. Dimensions: 23.5" x 14.5" x 9"

Pros: Expandable design, multiple exterior pockets Cons: Some travelers may prefer a clamshell opening; may be too large for some international flights

Every inch counts—especially if you're traveling with just a carry-on—and softside luggage offers a little more give than hard-shell bags. This expandable pick has a telescopic handle, spinner wheels for easy gliding, and an external USB port for charging your devices. It's earned an “Amazon's Choice” distinction thanks to its consistently high reviews and competitive pricing (its larger size, which has many similar internal features, is a favorite of former Traveler editor Louis Cheslaw). The suitcase is available in several shades (including black, Bordeaux, and true navy) and three carry-on sizes (19-, 20-, and 21-inches).

Weight: 8.15 lbs. Dimensions: 21.7" x 13.7" x 9"

Pros: Expandable, easy to roll Cons: Scuffs easily, no exterior pockets

Go one step further, space-wise, with this expandable suitcase, which gives you an additional 2.25" of packing space when needed. Traveler 's global associate director of audience development Lara Kramer has used this bag for trips as long as a week (including a trip to London ), and noted how smoothly it rolled across almost any surface, thanks to its 360-degree spinner wheels. “The joy of this luggage is its simplicity,” she says. “It's a pretty straightforward design, but what it does, it does very well: glide smoothly and easily with its 360-degree spinner wheels and provide the luxury of expanding to add more room if needed. Between my husband and I, one of us is always snagging it as our main carry-on.” Kramer recommends choosing a unique color for your bag, or adding your favorite sticker to the outer hard shell to help it stand out, and notes the inevitable scuffs can look pretty jarring against the black colorway.

Weight: 12.5 lbs. Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9"

Pros: Very easy to store, even in small places; soft handle grip Cons: Expandable mechanism can be tricky to lock into place

The designers at Béis knew what they were doing when they built this soft-sided expandable carry-on , a favorite of senior commerce editor Madison Flager . It's a big space saver for people with minimal closet or storage space, and yet still fits plenty when expanded—enough for a long weekend to five-day trips. An exterior front pocket holds a laptop sleeve, pocket to place a portable charger (and a small hole to slip the charging cord through), plus a key clip. Smooth-rolling wheels and a soft hand cushion on the underside of the handle are great touches, too.

Weight: 7.16 lbs. Dimensions: 21.5" x 14" x 9"

Pros: Responsive handle, very lightweight Cons: No exterior pockets for added storage

Lightweight with a rugged exterior, frequent traveler Patrick Thompson noted that this bag “seems like it would hold up to the hustle and bustle of an airport, getting jammed into an overhead compartment, and any excessive packing into the trunk of a car.” He's been using it regularly for over a year, bringing it on trips as long as two weeks (Argentina and Italy), as well as long weekend trips to Utah, Georgia, and Florida, and while it has gotten scuffed, it's still in good shape, and is a bag he'd recommend to other travelers. “I love the color and that it's very lightweight. I find it to be easily rollable when traveling.” While there is “a stealth pocket on the top corner that holds smaller items, which can be very useful and convenient while trudging through the airport,” he hasn't often utilized the front exterior zipper, which is meant for easy access to the main compartment, and would prefer another exterior pocket in place of it.

Weight: 10 lbs. Dimensions: 20" x 14" x 7.9"

Pros: Built-in garment folder, interior compression system, exterior pockets Cons: Doesn't roll as easily when full

Senior features editor Rebecca Misner calls this suitcase “a professional travelers’ dream carry-on: very sturdy, and full of bells and whistles that actually make packing easier.” Briggs & Riley's signature expansion system allows travelers to press a button and pull up on a lever in the main compartment to expand the suitcase sides vertically. “Once you’re packed and zipped, you just push down on the exterior sides to compress.” Other notable features include mesh interior pockets, a built-in garment folder with a foam roll bar that keeps clothes from wrinkling, and unassuming SpeedThu pocket pockets on the exterior made to fit a passport and boarding pass—with a bright orange lining that signals when the pocket is open (meaning your important docs are at risk).

Weight: 9.9 lbs. Dimensions: 14" x 22" x 9.5" Pros: Keeps dress clothes wrinkle-free, exterior pocket to hold documents or other small items Cons: May not be large enough to be your only suitcase on a trip

Heading to a wedding or business trip ? Kramer vouches for this compact Travelpro garment bag. “The lay-flat garment bag design is the real gem of this carry-on. It holds way more than you think—and arriving with all of your dresses and shirts wrinkle-free is a huge game changer.” The durable nylon fabric, made with a Duraguard coating, is a bonus, too.

Weight: 7.9 lbs. Dimensions: 22.8" x 9.4" x 15"

Pros: Smooth-rolling wheels, built-in phone charger, antimicrobial lining Cons: Scratched easily on first use

Tested by destinations editor Shannon McMahon , who prefers to travel with expandable hard-side spinners, this one stands out for “its super roomy packing capacity and its smooth-rolling wheels.” It's become her go-to carry-on after first using it for a four-day getaway last year with room to spare ( even after buying souvenirs ). Smart features of the utilitarian bag include a built-in phone charger, zippered laundry compartment, oversized mesh organizational pockets, and antimicrobial lining. The exterior scratched surprisingly easily on that first trip, but beyond that it hasn't seen much damage: “It's not a fight against scratches on the outside like I thought it would be, it seems like it was just a first-use thing.” The bag's biggest pros: Its packing power and its ultra-lightweight—“it's light as a feather when empty,” McMahon says.

Weight: 6.06 lbs. Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9" Pros: Wheels smoothly, easy to carry around Cons: Laptop sleeve doesn't fit much else, so if not using it, feels like an unnecessary use of space

Frequent traveler Katie Thompson has been using this suitcase for over a year, bringing it to Italy, Argentina, Florida, upstate New York, and Savannah, and calls it “an organizer's dream.” The Samsonite carry-on is loaded with zip pockets and mesh nets to give every item its own place. Thompson says it “can comfortably fit a week's worth of clothing if you are a light packer, but is probably best for a weekend trip,” and notes it rolls easily and in all directions. Another perk: The hardshell exterior has built in patterns that help to hide any scratches, though it has gotten some scuffs with time. Overall, it is “sleek, unique, and compact,” though overall storage is on the smaller side: “The additional pockets on the top side make the inside smaller,” Thompson says. “It fits less than my previous carry-on, but I still managed 10 days in Italy with it.”

Weight: 8.25 lbs. Dimensions: 21" x 13.5" x 9.5" Pros: Front pocket for last-minute items, plenty of interior compartments Cons: Limited color options, no expansion

Hard-shell bags with a front pocket are few and far between, but this Calpak bag makes a strong case for it. Executive editor Erin Florio says she “actually [looks] forward to packing this thing;” while she was worried about its size at first glance, after traveling with it, she says smart packers could pack for up to 10 days with it. “The inner compartments make it really easy to organize all your items, from shoes to laundry to toiletries, which helps you fit in more,” she says. As for that exterior pocket, it can fit a laptop, hardcover book, and magazines.

Weight: 6.3 lbs. Dimensions: 23" H x 14.5" W x 9.5" D Pros: Lightweight and fits a lot of clothing including shoes Cons: Hard to lift when heavy. Also hard to clean/get scuffs out

Recommended by associate social media manager Kayla Brock , this expandable carry-on has a mesh zip compartment and zip-lock compartments inside, which make organizing clothes, accessories, and toiletries easy. She has brought it to North Dakota, Europe, New York, Zanzibar, Seattle, Jamaica, Chicago, Colorado, and the Cayman Islands, packing for as long as three weeks with it (though in winter time, it's better suited for weekend trips). “Although it originally looks like my clothes wouldn’t fit (I’m guilty of overpacking), the suitcase closed with ease,” Brock says. In the year-plus that she's been using it, it has gotten some scuffs and discoloration on certain parts of the body, and the zippers have bent a little; however, Brock still strongly recommends it: “Out of all the suitcases I have this is my absolute favorite and without a doubt the one that I take with me on a trip.”

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

• Best hard-sided overall
• Best soft-sided overall
• Best budget
• Best high-end hard-sided
• Best high-end soft-sided
• Best for extra space
• Best aluminum
• How we tested

The best carry-on luggage of 2024, tested and reviewed

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The internet is filled with stories of travel nightmares, but imagine a scenario where you're strolling through the airport confidently and easily with your suitcase gliding by your side; everything you wanted to pack has fit neatly into one bag, and you don't have a care in the world about squeezing it into the overhead bin. The best carry-on suitcases are reliable, durable, easy to pack, hold plenty of clothes, and fit on both domestic and international planes of all sizes.   

As travel editors who take more than 50 flights a year, we practically live out of our carry-ons at times. Our picks for the best carry-on bag are based on years of hands-on testing using objective tests and real-life travel. Our top pick for a hard-sided suitcase is the Samsonite Centric Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels , which has proved to be durable, spacious, and easy to maneuver. If you prefer a soft-sided bag, we also recommend the Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Carry-On Spinner , a bag designed by an airline pilot with thoughtful features like well-placed pockets and leather detailing.

If you're in the market for checked luggage, be sure also to check out our guide to the best luggage , which details all our favorite travel brands.

Our top picks for carry-on luggage

Best hard-sided overall: Samsonite Centric Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels - See at Amazon Form, function, durability, and an excellent price all meet to make the Samsonite Centric Hardside Expandable Luggage a winner.

Best soft-sided overall: Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Carry-On Spinner - See at Travelpro The Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Carry-On holds everything you need and then some, but its attention to detail makes it stand out from the competition. 

Best budget: AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner - See at Amazon For the casual weekend traveler, the AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Carry-On is an attractive bag that does the job at an extremely affordable price.

Best high-end hard-sided: Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin - See at Rimowa True to its name, the Rimowa Essential Lite sets itself apart with its under 5-pound weight without compromising on durability or quality. 

Best high-end soft-sided: Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-on Expandable Spinner - See at Briggs & Riley The Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On is worth the investment thanks to its impressive compression feature and high-end materials that stand the test of time.

Best for extra space: Monos Carry-On Pro Plus - See at Monos If you're not restricted to smaller overhead bins, the Monos Carry-On Pro Plus is a sleek suitcase with extra room inside and a smart front pocket for easily stowing accessories.  

Best aluminum: Away The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition - See at Away Away's heavy-duty aluminum carry-on is as sleek and eye-catching as it is durable.

Best hard-sided overall: Samsonite Centric Hardside

Pros: Excellent price for the quality, durable, scratch-resistant, wheels easily, expandable, 10 year warranty

Cons: Handle wiggles a decent amount when fully extended, may be too big for some budget airlines outside the US 

I've used this bag consistently for years, and while it has a couple of very small marks upon close inspection, it has remained in remarkably good shape — especially compared to other hard-side cases I've tried. 

It's easy to lift into overhead bins and a rubberized grip under the top and side handles adds extra comfort for handling. The zippers run smoothly and the expansion zipper even has a finger hole for extra ease and agility. There is also a TSA-approved lock on the right side.

Despite its small size, I can fit a week's worth of clothes inside, and the 1.5-inch expansion capability comes in especially handy if you often return from a trip with more than you originally packed. While there aren't any fancy extras when it comes to interior storage, it's more than sufficient with a mesh zip close on one side and a strong buckle to keep clothes packed in tight on the other. 

The bag's one downside is that the handle is a little bit wobbly when fully extended. As is the case with most suitcases, the handle poles also take up some space in the interior compartment, making it harder to lay items completely flat on that side. 

Read our full Samsonite Centric Hardside Expandable Carry-On review .

Best soft-sided overall: Travelpro Platinum Elite

Pros: Durable and high-quality materials, leather detailing, doesn't tip forward even when fully packed

Cons : Easy to overpack, may be too big for some budget airlines outside the US 

Travelpro is well-regarded among serious travelers for a reason. The high-density nylon fabric is durable, stain-resistant, and has not torn or ripped in the time I've used it. Leather detailing not only adds a sophisticated look but also makes the top lifting handle extremely comfortable. However, the additional handle on the side is a little bit tight, even for my small hands.

With an expansion option of two full inches, this bag holds a ton. There are three front pockets of varying sizes, including one that can hold a laptop. The main compartment has the standard layout of a soft-side bag with one deep side and a smaller zipper compartment on the other side.

Large chrome zippers are easy to maneuver and the four large wheels made this bag one of the easiest to wheel on every surface, including carpet. The adjustable handle is very sturdy and has a contoured grip, making it extra comfortable.

The bag also comes with several handy extras, including a garment bag, a built-in USB port (battery pack not included), and a removable clear plastic bag attached to the inside for holding toiletries and liquids.

However, I did find that with so many front pockets, the bag was very easy to overpack, especially when fully expanded, which defeats the purpose of having a carry-on if you end up having to check it after all. 

Read our full Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Carry-On review .

Best budget: AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner

Pros: Very affordable, durable for the price, solid adjustable handle that doesn't wobble

Cons: Marks up easily, may not hold up well over time, no lock

For a bag that costs much less than our top picks, I was thoroughly impressed by the quality and look of this carry-on. It was sturdier than I was expecting and the material only had a little bit of give when I pressed on the top and sides.

Though it is expandable up to 15% for additional packing room, I found that it held less overall than the similar Samsonite suitcase we recommend in this guide, making it a good option for shorter or weekend trips.

The interior has one mesh zip side and one side with a buckle. The buckle isn't too sturdy, but it will do the trick of keeping clothes in place. The adjustable handle is comfortable and didn't wobble very much. The wheels also glided smoothly on nearly every surface (thick carpet gave it a bit of trouble), though they were just a little bit louder than others I tested. 

The zippers ran smoothly and for the most part, the bag held up throughout my tests, though it did get marks relatively after just one use. That said, some reviewers have complained that after about five or six trips the bag starts to break down, with complaints of broken handles, wheels, and zippers.

Best high-end hard-sided: Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin

Pros: Incredibly lightweight, durable

Cons: Not as good for organization, expensive

Rimowa is best known for its distinctive aluminum suitcases frequently spotted on celebrity Instagram accounts. While those bags will set you back a cool grand, the luxury travel brand has alternative high-quality options that won't cost more than your monthly rent.

I was particularly impressed with the newer Essential Lite bag, which weighs less than five pounds — an especially great option for chronic overpackers who worry about their bag being overweight. Shockingly, the Lite suitcase actually holds slightly more than Rinowa's classic aluminum suitcase, too.

The brand didn't sacrifice when it comes to the quality of the materials. Although the bag has some give at the top when pressed, the suitcase is plenty sturdy. Its thicker glossy coating also keeps it from scratching or marking up as easily as matte-finished suitcases. I tossed it around several times and it survived the back of a moving truck with no dents, scratches, or marks. 

The bag has a TSA-approved lock on top, a rubberized top handle that's comfortable to grip, and a sturdy telescopic handle. The wheels are whisper quiet thanks to cushioned axles and worked beautifully on every surface from hardwood to carpet. I also liked that both sides of the interior had a mesh zipper, which I found made keeping everything organized and in place easier than the typical one-sided buckle system. 

One added bonus of owning a Rimowa bag is the 5-year warranty, and the company works with a network of hotels to do repairs onsite should anything happen to your bag while you're traveling.

Read our full Rimowa Essential Lite carry-on review .

Best high-end soft-sided: Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-on Expandable Spinner

Pros:  Durable, high-quality materials, smart and unique features to help fit more in 

Cons:  Pricey, heavy

With a hybrid fiberglass frame, ballistic nylon exterior, reinforced corners, and smooth YKK zippers, this Briggs & Riley bag is made to withstand the test of time. 

This suitcase is also full of ingenious tricks that make packing it a breeze and help you sneak in those extra outfits. For starters, the bag has a CX compression-expansion system that increases packing capacity by 25% before compressing back down to fit carry-on size regulations. Another smart feature that adds packable room to this bag is a fold-out divider in the smaller zippered compartment so you can stack clothes, fold it in, and then stack more clothes before zipping it all up.  

Unlike other bags we tested, the adjustable handle is entirely on the outside of this bag, so no packing room is lost to the poles. That said, it does mean that the poles are visible on the outside the bag and may make it slightly harder to slide the bag into the overhead compartment.

The wheels expertly navigated every surface, and the handle is sturdy and easy to grip. Two outer pockets on the front add additional space, but I found they didn't expand quite as much as the Travelpro front pockets. There's also a small zippered pocket on the back ideal for keeping your phone (especially when going through security).

The biggest downside: it's heavier than the other bags I tried and could be hard for some people to lift into the overhead, especially when fully packed. 

Best for extra space: Monos Carry-On Pro Plus

Pros: Significantly more packable space, smart front pocket that doesn't protrude when packed

Cons: Doesn't meet all carry-on size requirements, marks up easily

At 23 inches, the Monos Pro Plus is just a hair too big for some smaller planes or budget airlines. However, if you mainly take larger cross-country or transatlantic flights where overhead bins are bigger and space isn't usually an issue and relish every last ounce of packable space, this carry-on is worth a look. 

It offers more packable space than any other bag on this list. It features one side with a zippered mesh compartment and an alternative side that has a fold-out mesh pocket and two wide and sturdy buckles that seriously compress clothes when pulled tight. 

What really sets this bag apart is the front pocket space, which is unusual for a hard-sided suitcase. The padded pocket holds a 15-inch laptop and has additional space for organizing everything from your phone to headphones. 

The bag itself has a simple and chic look and comes in an array of attractive colors like pale pink and royal blue. However, my bag did get several small scuffs rather quickly. The adjustable handle is sturdy and doesn't wobble, the YKK zippers didn't catch, and the wheels glided smoothly on all surfaces. 

As an additional bonus, the bag is guaranteed for life and has a 100-day trial period. 

For those who want to ensure their carry-on fits on all flights, Monos recently launched a smaller carry-on option with a pocket, the Carry-On Pro . However, you do lose 10 liters of packable space, so the Pro is best for shorter trips.   

Read our full Monos carry-on luggage review .

Best aluminum: Away The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition

Pros: Durable, sleek look, dual locks, ample packing space

Cons: Heavy, expensive

Aluminum suitcases are more expensive than standard polycarbonate options. However, they're supremely durable and built to seriously last. They also have a sleek and shiny look that stands out from the crowd at the airport.  

This one from Away has quickly become one of my favorites. I was worried it wouldn't easily fit into all overhead bins because it has a bulkier look, but I was even able to fit it on a small regional plane recently. 

As for that shiny look, I receive compliments every time I take this bag out. And on durability, this carry-on has held up remarkably well so far, with no scratches, dings, or dents to speak of, even after I also threw it around on my rooftop to simulate the wear and tear that comes with typical plane travel. 

Its 360-degree spinner wheels are a breeze to roll on numerous surface types. Rather than a typical zipper, this aluminum suitcase features two sturdy TSA-approved locks that easily click into place.

What most impressed me was the huge amount of packing space. I took this bag on a weekend ski trip and was able to fit my long underwear, sweaters, ski pants, gloves, and a light jacket on just one side. I easily fit a weekend's worth of everyday clothes on the other side. 

At just under 11 pounds, this bag is heavy. While that isn't too big of an issue on car trips, train trips, or some flights, with airlines that have stricter weight limits I would hesitate to use this carry-on.

Read our full Away Carry-On review .

How we test carry-on luggage

For this guide, I narrowed down the field to the 10 top contenders based on my own considerable travel experience and knowledge as a travel editor, as well as additional research and user reviews. While some of these bags I've personally owned and used for several years, others I tested extensively specifically for this guide.

I put all 10 of the bags through the same tests, which considered packability, maneuverability, and durability. I also took into account the price point, style, quality of materials, and any extra features the bags included. 

Packability: I paced the same set of clothing in each bag (enough for a five-day trip), noting both ease of packing and how much the bag could actually hold.

Maneuverability: Due to the pandemic, I have not been flying recently, but I still mimicked the conditions carry-ons would typically go through in a number of ways. I packed each bag to capacity, rolled them for several blocks on the street, tested the wheels on wood floors, thick carpet, and concrete, stress-tested the zippers, and lifted each bag onto a high closet shelf roughly the same height as an overhead bin.

Durability: I used all of the bags in a recent move where they were thrown around the back of a moving van in a similar fashion to how they might be tossed around on and off a plane by bag handlers to test durability. 

Carry-on luggage FAQs

What size carry-on should i buy.

Most US airlines technically cap carry-ons at 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches high, including handles and wheels. However, in our experience (and the practical dimensions we've spotted in best-selling bags), you can usually get away with about an inch more room in each direction.

However, if you frequently travel on short jumper flights or often fly on budget airlines overseas, you may want to consider a carry-on no larger than 21.7" x 13.7" x 9".

Should I buy hard-sided or soft-sided luggage?

Ah, the age-old luggage debate. The answer depends on your priorities.

Hard-sided bags have a fixed shape and size, which is a boon if you're prone to overpacking. They're also more durable. However, soft-sided bags offer some flexibility, which can be good for squeezing your bag into tight overhead spaces. They also usually have outer pockets, which is a rarity in hard-sided bags. The style you choose here will ultimately be down to your personal preference.

What's the best weight for a carry-on?

In general, 7 or 8 pounds is a manageable dry weight for a carry-on bag. Keep in mind that extra bells and whistles add to the weight of the bag, so carefully consider if those features are truly worth the extra weight before committing. For example, a portable USB charger often seems like a great perk in a bag, but it can add a whole extra pound of weight.

What's the best carry-on for traveling with kids?

Traveling with kids means you'll need easy access to snacks, entertainment devices, diapers, and other childcare items. That means outer pockets are your friend in a carry-on bag. Any of our soft-sided carry-on picks will do the job here.

Should I get a carry-on with two wheels or four wheels?

Our testers are staunch believers that a carry-on bag should have four wheels for maximum maneuverability. There's really no advantage to a two-wheeled bag.

What's the best material for luggage?

The most common materials for hard-sided suitcases tend to be aluminum, polycarbonate, and ABS. Aluminum is extremely durable, but also extremely pricey, and ABS is less durable but more affordable. A good polycarbonate bag can hit the sweet spot of price and quality.

When it comes to soft-sided suitcases, ballistic nylon is one of the most durable options, but again can mean a higher price point. Regular nylon can still be high-quality while being more affordable, while polyester tends to be a good budget option.   

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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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.

Adrienne So

David Nield

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Aarian Marshall

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. It 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 it 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 he and I would use, 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.

Brenda Stolyar

Scott Gilbertson

Medea Giordano

Eric Ravenscraft

Louryn Strampe

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

All great trips start with perfectly packed gear

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

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

If you’re heading off on vacation for more than a night or two, you’ll likely need a checked bag—and there are literally thousands from which to choose. The best will be durable, with a sturdy hard shell or soft fabric exterior capable of withstanding rough baggage handlers while hiding the worst of any wear and tear. An excellent checked bag should also roll smoothly and be easy to maneuver on many terrains and should make the most of its internal packing space with clever organization pockets and expansion features. 

To determine the best luggage options for various requirements and budgets, we tested 27 popular bags in the Dotdash Meredith lab. We reviewed each one for capacity, maneuverability, durability, organization, and value.

Final Verdict

How we tested, other checked luggage we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, samsonite winfield 2 hardside.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Excellent interior organization

Stellar handling

Potential for slight scuffing

The Samsonite Winfield 2 28-inch hardside spinner scored near-perfect marks in our testing, impressing us with its design and durability. A 100 percent polycarbonate shell offers the perfect blend of lightness and toughness, absorbing impact by flexing and then rebounding to its original shape. During our intense testing, we found that even dented corners instantly popped back into place, and contents were kept secure throughout. And, with a brushstroke exterior, any minor scratches or scuffs are camouflaged, keeping your luggage looking sleek for longer. 

The suitcase’s square shape and expansion option guarantee maximum capacity. Even when stuffed full, it retained its shape and size perfectly and offered plenty of space. In particular, we love the compression feature that keeps contents neatly in place and the full-zip interior divider that makes it easy to separate clean and dirty clothes. Once packed, the suitcase is also easy to maneuver thanks to its sturdy, retractable handle and four multidirectional wheels. Whether pulling it behind us or pushing it in front, we felt it performed admirably, even over rough surfaces and around multiple obstacles.

Other features include oversized zippers and a side-mounted, TSA-approved lock. The suitcase has a limited 10-year global warranty and comes in various colors, from charcoal to Nordic blue.

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

TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik

Best Budget

Kenneth cole reaction out of bounds suitcase.

• Maneuverability 4 /5

Allows for double-sided packing

Reinforced corners for added durability

Wide choice of bright colors

No expansion feature 

Difficult to handle on uneven terrain

Available online for less than half the price of our overall winner, the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 28-inch suitcase is ideal for those on a budget. It boasts a lightweight hard shell with molded corner guards for maximum impact resistance. Besides a few scuffs around the edges, it stood up well to our durability tests and should provide good resilience for long-distance trips. We especially love how spacious this bag is. Despite its compact appearance, our tester could easily pack a month’s worth of clothes and accessories. 

The interior is divided in two by a large zippered pocket, making it easy to organize your belongings. Compression straps keep everything in place during transit, while four multidirectional spinner wheels promise the smoothest ride possible on even terrain. We were impressed with its ability to spin in any direction while traveling through tight spaces; however, we did find that the suitcase became less easy to maneuver on rough surfaces. Overall, though, this bag is tough to beat price-wise and offers excellent value for money. 

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

Best Hardside

Travelpro platinum elite hardside spinner.

 Amazon

• Design 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

Trendy design

Stands up well to rough handling

Superb maneuverability

Not particularly lightweight

The Travelpro Platinum Elite large spinner suitcase features a 100 percent polycarbonate shell that flexes on impact to prevent cracking. With its textured finish, aluminum corner guards, and genuine leather trim, it’s definitely a fashionable choice—and one whose sleek looks survived our drop and bat tests, with only minor scuffing visible afterward. The clamshell interior boasts two zippered divider panels, adjustable hold-down straps, and more accessory pockets than our tester knew what to do with—including a water-resistant one for damp items.

We found that the zippers were exceptionally smooth on the main compartment, interior pockets, and the 2-inch expansion feature. We were also impressed with how well the suitcase handled over bumps, around obstacles, and across various terrains. This is due to Travelpro’s trademarked PrecisionGlide System, with no fewer than eight self-aligning spinner wheels. Finally, the bag comes with a lifetime warranty that even covers airline damage for the first five years.

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

Best Softside

Travelpro platinum elite softside spinner.

• Design 4 /5

Tough, functional shell

Thoughtful internal structure

Performs well on all terrains

May be too big for some

If you’re in the market for the ultimate softside suitcase, this one from Travelpro is the largest spinner in the Platinum Elite line. In fact, it’s so spacious that our tester felt able to fit double the amount required by our testing standards—making it ideal for extended trips, moving houses, or the incurable overpacker. It features scuff- and stain-resistant fabric that proved its durability by surviving multiple falls and bat beatings without sustaining a scratch or dent. Leather accents and chrome zippers add to the overall aesthetic appeal. 

We loved the intelligent interior design, with just the right number of storage pockets and compartments—including a fold-out suiter for keeping your best clothes wrinkle-free. The exterior zippered pocket is another nice touch and is perfectly sized for your passport or wallet. The tapered expansion provides up to 2 inches of extra, tip-resistant packing space, while the sturdy wheels handle well on smooth and rough surfaces. We did find that the bag’s super-large size made it a little cumbersome for maneuvering in tight spaces, though.

Dimensions: 32.5 x 21 x 13.25 inches | Weight: 11.5 pounds | Wheels: 8 | Expandable: Yes

Best Splurge

Tumi alpha 3 packing case.

Innovative, long-lasting material

Generous capacity

Plenty of organizational features

Relatively heavy

Retailing for over $1,000, the Tumi Alpha 3 Short Trip suitcase is definitely a splurge and one that we felt was probably only worthwhile for frequent travelers. However, for those willing to invest, it will last: The suitcase features Tumi’s exclusive FXT ballistic fabric, which is extra durable and virtually abrasion-proof. With impact-resistant side panels and protective bumper rails, it’s no surprise that it survived our tests without any dents or scuffs. Bonus: It comes with a five-year warranty. 

The suitcase also stands out for its multiple exterior and interior pockets. We liked that the main compartment and the largest exterior pocket are protected by a special security zipper, while the removable garment sleeve was another highlight. A two-stage expansion system meant we could fit everything in easily with plenty of space for more, while a three-stage telescoping handle and four double-spinner wheels ensured premium maneuverability. Other benefits range from an integrated TSA lock and Tumi Tracer to optional monogramming.

Dimensions: 26 x 19 x 13 inches | Weight: 15.4 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Best Capacity

Delsey paris hardside spinner.

• Maneuverability 3.5 /5

Roomy with a deep clamshell design

Handles a variety of terrain and obstacles

Gorgeous, eye-catching hues

No internal pockets

Made from durable, lightweight polycarbonate, the Delsey Paris Helium Aero suitcase features a ridged exterior to help prevent damage—although it did show some minor scuff marks after our rigorous testing process. Nevertheless, we loved its amazing capacity, fitting everything on our list with plenty of space left over even before deploying the expansion feature. With a single divider separating the main compartment into two halves, interior organization options are relatively minimal. We suggest packing cubes for those who prefer a bit more structure. 

The suitcase has four double spinner wheels and a telescopic handle that locks in two different positions to enable two- or four-wheeled use. We found it easy to push or pull on smooth surfaces and a breeze over bumps, but it was more difficult to maneuver on gravel. Soft-touch top and side carry handles and an integrated TSA combination lock complete the package. There are several vibrant colors to choose from; we felt that the high-shine jewel tones would be particularly easy to spot on the luggage carousel. 

Dimensions: 31.75 x 20.75 x 12.75 inches | Weight: 12.5 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Best Design

Roam the check-in.

• Capacity 4 /5

Potential to create a completely unique piece

Rolls easily over different terrain

100-day free trial

Relatively expensive

Could be more spacious

If you’re looking for an on-trend and totally out-of-the-box suitcase, this one from Roam is probably for you. Some of its features are standard: the polycarbonate shell, the telescoping handle, the four spinner wheels, and the TSA lock. Our tests found each to perform at the top end of the spectrum, with absolutely no visible damage after our rough handling process and beautifully smooth maneuverability even on gravel. Other elements, such as the water-repellent zippers and internal compression boards, are less expected. 

Perhaps most exciting is that this suitcase is genuinely customizable, with options to choose the color of every aspect, from the front and back shells to the zippers, bindings, and wheels. There’s even a monogram patch on the back for that extra-personalized touch. Don’t want to choose your own colors? Roam also offers a selection of colorways inspired by and named after different travel destinations. You can choose to make your suitcase expandable, which we’d recommend since a relatively limited capacity was this bag’s only drawback.

Dimensions: 26 x 17.5 x 10 inches (non-expandable), 26 x 17.5 x 10.5-12.5 inches (expandable) | Weight: 9.3 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes (if chosen as an optional extra)

Best Duffel

Briggs & riley wheeled duffel.

Solid organization

Durable fabric

Wheels avoid back strain of classic duffels

Expensive for a duffel

Only available in two colors

Packing bulky or odd-shaped gear or heading off on an expedition that requires a super-tough, versatile bag? This duffel from Briggs & Riley is an excellent option. It features 800-denier ballistic nylon, which we found incredibly strong with no signs of damage post-testing. And, although, the two color choices of black or army green are not particularly exciting, they’re designed not to show wear and tear and are infinitely practical. Unlike traditional duffels, this one is wheeled for your convenience, with two wedged feet to keep it upright. 

The interior is incredibly roomy and made more so by the external Outsider handle and the zip-around lid pocket with its 2-inch expansion feature. We liked the cinch-down garment panels, which keep everything in place while doubling as a divider. There are many internal and external pockets, including a PVC-lined one for your wet or dirty gear and a zippered mesh pocket for smaller essentials. We found the bag super light and smooth to operate on hard floors, carpet, and gravel, and we liked that it packs down small for easy storage. 

Dimensions: 27 x 15 x 15 inches | Weight: 8.6 pounds | Wheels: 2 | Expandable: Yes

Passing our tests with flying colors, the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside is easy to maneuver over any terrain, features thoughtful interior organization, and comes backed by a 10-year warranty. If you are sticking to a budget, the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds Hardside Suitcase delivers incredible value at an accessible price point.

To create the recommendations above, we subjected each piece of luggage to the same rigorous testing process. First, we weighed the suitcases. Next, we packed them with a prescribed list of items to replicate what one might pack for a seven-day sightseeing trip in the fall . We noted spaciousness, whether the suitcase had an expansion option, and the usefulness of any organization features. We also checked the smoothness and durability of all zippers. 

Next, we tested maneuverability by rolling the suitcase through an obstacle course that included speed bumps and cones to simulate airport obstacles. We also tested how easily it operated over tile, carpet, and gravel. Finally, we tested the bag’s durability. This involved several drop tests, pushing it off a countertop, and noting any dents, scratches, or scuff marks. Then we beat the suitcase with a baseball bat, making sure to target all sides, corners, and wheels before checking for exterior and interior damage. 

Using our observations, we rated each suitcase on a scale from 1 to 5 for a list of attributes, including capacity, organization, maneuverability, durability, and value.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage, 29-Inch : Although it won points for its huge capacity, we felt this suitcase could use more comprehensive internal organization, a smoother handle system, and better performance on rough terrain. 

Briggs & Riley Baseline Expandable Spinner, 26-Inch : We found this to be a thoughtfully designed suitcase with great movement and a clever expansion option. However, the boxy design and high price tag prevented it from making our list.

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable : Although this suitcase looks sleek and comes in many colors, has an expansion option, and offers plenty of room, we felt it was let down by its awkward maneuverability on all but the smoothest surfaces. 

Briggs & Riley Sympatico Large Expandable Hardside Spinner : This suitcase stood up well to our durability tests and offered clever internal organization. However, we found the zippers were prone to sticking, and the handle was a little flimsy.

Monos Check-In Large Hardside : We really liked how well-built this suitcase felt and that it was easy to roll over all terrains. The downsides included slightly sticky zippers and the fact that it lacks the option to expand.

Arlo Skye The Zipper Check-In Large Hardside : This is an attractive, spacious suitcase with many intuitive design features. However, we found that it scuffed easily during our tests and felt it should be a little more durable at such a high price point. 

Paravel Aviator Grand Checked Hardside : Pros of this suitcase included its chic design, pretty colors, and smooth operation. Cons included a relative lack of interior organization options and the fact that it suffered several scuffs and dings during testing. 

Rimowa Essential Lite Check-In Hardside : This bag is costly, and our testers felt it was not worth the money, considering how easily the suitcase dented during testing and how difficult it was to maneuver over rough surfaces. 

July Checked Bag, 26-Inch : This is a well-designed, good-looking suitcase with thoughtful interior organization and options for customization. However, it scuffed easily during testing, so we would only recommend purchasing it in darker colors. 

Calpak Ambeur Large Hardside : Initial impressions of this suitcase were good, thanks to its glamorous exterior and versatile pockets. In the end, though, it was discounted because it was easily damaged during testing and lost balance when rolling over gravel. 

Beis The 29-Inch Large Check-In Roller : Although expensive, we felt this was an excellent suitcase with intuitive organization options. It stood up well to durability tests and maneuvered easily, and it would be a worthy alternative for several of our categories. 

Nomatic Check-In Hardside : This is a sleek suitcase with some excellent organization features; however, we felt that it was overpriced, especially since we struggled to pack everything on our testing list inside—a problem that we rarely encountered with other bags. 

AmazonBasics 26-Inch Hardside Spinner : This was a great piece of luggage for the price, with plenty of room and excellent exterior durability. Its flimsy compression straps and handles and the fact that the wheels stopped spinning on gravel hurt its overall rating.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 130L Duffel : We liked this duffel's durability and ability to convert to a backpack. However, it didn't make our final list because of its lack of organization, flimsy main grab handle, and limited maneuverability.

What to Look For in Checked Luggage

There are two main types of checked luggage: softside luggage, with popular materials including ballistic nylon and polyester, and hardside luggage , with the most popular materials being polycarbonate or ABS plastic. Both are available as luggage sets, and there are pros to both. Softside luggage is less prone to scuffs, dents, and scratches and more forgiving for the overpacker. Hardside luggage protects your valuables with a rigid frame and offers better weather resistance.

A checked bag should be roomy enough to accommodate everything you need for your trip while having some space left for souvenirs. Too small, and it’s a waste of the additional fee many airlines now charge for checked bags; however, it’s also worth bearing in mind that the largest bags may take you over airline weight limits when packed to capacity. A bag with an expansion feature you can deploy as needed is ideal. 

Maneuverability

You need a suitcase that can roll smoothly for many miles through airport terminals and withstand being pushed or pulled over various terrains, from smooth concourses to uneven sidewalks and cobbled streets. The best have four spinner wheels that allow them to move in any direction (handy for weaving through crowds) and a sturdy, telescoping handle capable of supporting the weight of your suitcase even when fully loaded. 

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) considers any luggage with a linear measurement of over 62 inches oversized. To work out your suitcase’s linear size, simply add the dimensions for length, width, and height. Airlines usually accept bigger bags but will charge a fee for them. The price (and the maximum size accepted) varies from carrier to carrier.

The IATA also lists items that cannot be packed in checked bags. These include e-cigarettes, spare batteries, power banks, and potentially hazardous items such as gas canisters, fireworks, lighters, and bleaches. Again, detailed lists may vary depending on your airline and destination, so it’s always a good idea to check before flying. Banned items will be removed and typically confiscated.

Smart suitcases are defined as any suitcase that has an integrated electronic device. This could be a USB charging point (super handy for keeping your phone going throughout your journey), a built-in scale (no last-minute repacking at the check-in counter), or a GPS real-time luggage tracker . The downside? Many airlines have banned smart suitcases that use non-removable lithium-ion batteries due to a potential fire risk on planes.

When suitcase shopping, you should research which models offer the best value for money—ultimately, you’re looking for quality construction that will perform well and save money in the long run by lasting several years. Then, you should spend as much as you can afford while also not paying for gadgets or gimmicks you don’t need. Often you’ll pay extra just for a brand name, so you need to decide if that’s worth it for you.

Each manufacturer will have guidelines, but generally speaking, you should remove any external dirt with a soft-bristled brush or damp cloth (depending on which is more appropriate for the stain and the material your luggage is made of). Make sure your luggage is completely dry before packing it away, and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can use an approved lubricant to keep wheels and zippers running smoothly.

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert. She is an experienced traveler who has put many brands and types of checked luggage to the test on her adventures to more than 50 countries—whether on cultural breaks to cities across Europe, a scientific expedition to the Peruvian Amazon, or a months-long backpacking adventure through South East Asia.

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The Perfect Luggage for Avoiding Airport Chaos Is Here

Because stress-free travel starts with having the right gear.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

But choosing the best luggage is not always as easy as it seems. The variety of options on the market can make shopping for a new large suitcase or carry-on feel like driving through a dark tunnel without a navigation system. This guide here on the best luggage brands will help shine a little light on your trek, aiding you in choosing the right luggage for your budget.

Best Overall Luggage Brand

The Close Second

The Frequent Favorite

Best Investment Luggage Brand

Best Softside Luggage Brand

Best Luggage Sets

Best Luggage for Hauling Gear

Peak design.

Best Luggage for Apple AirTag Users

Best Adventure Luggage Brand

Eagle creek.

Best Luggage for Minimalist Travelers

Which brand of suitcase i s best.

The editors and writers at Men's Health are constantly on the go. From working assignments in LA to taking tropical vacations in Madeira, we make it a point to test all the best luggage brands in our adventures. Over the past four years alone, we've tested well over 40 different luggage brands to find the perfect piece. Here, we bring you the 17 best luggage brands of 2024 in one clean list, with Samsonite commanding our top spot of the best luggage brand overall due to the brand's outstanding durability, clean design, and wallet-friendly price.

No matter if you’re looking for a one-size-fits-all bag or an entire luggage set, these are the best luggage brands on the market that will get you cruising without the stress of schlepping some raggedy old case. Ready to see the list?

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Price Point ($-$$$): $ | Hardside or Softside: Both | Warranty: 10 years

Samsonite makes the best affordable suitcases and luggage sets in our eyes. While the brand is in just about every major department store, the best place to buy Samsonite luggage is on Amazon. The retailer carries some of Samsonite's highest-rated products that won't burn a hole in your wallet. You can score an entire hard-sided set for under $300 or shop the brand's durable nylon singles . The items might not be as feature-loaded and reinforced as some of the other brands, but you will be surprised at how far your luggage will go before you need replacing.

When asking Justin Crabbe , the CEO of Jettly, a private jet charter service, about his go-to luggage brand, he mentioned Samsonite as one of the most well-priced and reliable brands that come to mind. "With lightweight yet durable material, superior design, and multiple compartments for packing with ease, it is a traveler’s dream come true," says Crabbe.

Our Senior Gear and Commerce Editor, John Thompson, always seems to find himself traveling with Samsonite too. " Time and time again I think I need to upgrade my luggage, and then I come back to my softside Samsonite carry-on I've held onto for over 5+ years," he says. " It [my carry-on] has been my companion with me through many adventures, from high altitude camping trips in Colorado to overseas adventures in countries like China and Germany." Thompson also notes his Samsonite's all-black fabric body has resisted scratches and marks over time, which makes it suitable for business trips as a clean piece that will blend in among the other bags—and not stand out for being all mangled and disheveled.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Both | Warranty: Lifetime

You must be living under a rock if this is your first time hearing about the magic that is Away luggage. The simple-yet-modern design makes you actually love to carry the brand's bags. Away's claim to fame comes from the brand's built-in battery packs that can power up your devices. Our Fashion Director, Ted Stafford, is a huge fan of Away due to the brand's attention to detail in the design process. " The interior of the suitcase has a streamlined design, which offers ample space to fit all your necessary items in an uncluttered and organized way ," says Stafford. " Plus, Away’s suitcases are extremely lightweight, so you can easily maneuver to and from your destination without pulling your muscles or overexerting unnecessary energy—to me, that kind of ease is invaluable at a price that’s very fair.”

The carry-on sizes come in a traditional option and a bigger carry-on for certain airlines that allow it. The brand also innovated on its hard-sided luggage collection, and now makes a full line of soft-sided durable ballistic nylon and outer pocket additions.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: 10 years

What would the best luggage guide be without TravelPro? The legacy brand has been a longtime favorite of frequent travelers, soft luggage fans, and, yes, even pilots and flight attendants. TravelPro sets are wallet-friendly and its bags are constructed with function in mind (we especially love how durable the 360-wheels and handles are on its pieces).

Nadia Podrabinek , a travel writer and founder of Why This Place, is a huge fan of her expandable soft side Travelpro carry-on due to the high quality of design for an affordable price. "The lightweight construction that does not sacrifice on quality, allowing you to travel with peace of mind; and the four-wheel spinner design makes maneuvering through airports easy, while numerous pockets help keep your items organized," Podrabinek says.

Travelpro might not be the most flashy brand, but there's a reason so many travel writers (and flight attendants) love the brand.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $$$ | Hardside or Softside: Both | Warranty: 5 years

Tumi is for the slick traveler on the move that appreciates design as much as they do function. The longtime brand founded back in 1975 makes sure every new piece of luggage helps aim to solve common travel qualms. Tumi's carry-on bags and backpacks are made with several easy-access zippered compartments to help breeze through TSA lines, and the brand's add-a-bag sets are designed to lug around two to three bags at one time with one hand.

Adam Mansuroglu, a former Style & Commerce Editor at Men's Health is a Tumi fan. "I've had my Tumi 19 Degree carry-on case for a few years now ; and whenever I want to feel a bit fancier and pretend like I live that jet-set life, I make sure to carry that silver stunner," Mansuroglu says. " I t not only looks sleek and stylish—it can hold a surprising amount of shoes for a fashion editor who can't seem to ever travel light."

It's no secret Tumi is one of the more expensive luggage brands around, but if can pony up the investment you'll be happy knowing you'll have a sleek bag that's going to last you for many years to come.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: 3 years

Calling all gearheads. If you're an adventure traveler, Yeti has your back (literally, with the brand's first Crossroads backpack series). In this line of luggage, you'll find dry bags for white water rafting, carryalls, and classic rolling luggage and duffels that can withstand just about anything without showing much wear and tear. These bags are made for utility and function with a willingness to get tossed around and dirty with an easy clean.

Due to the tough construction of Yeti luggage, it's no wonder the bags have become a favorite for adventure tourists in the past few years. Geordie Mackay-Lewis , co-founder of Pelorus , a bespoke agency that plans exotic travel and yacht experiences, loves to pack Yeti bags for client excursions. " For our more adventurous trips, we pack our soft and fully waterproof Yeti bags, which can easily be thrown into a RIB or helicopter ," Mackay-Lewis says. " They also have great camera bags, which we’ve been using on client trips and reconnaissance missions for years."

It's worth mentioning only some of the Yeti bags are completely waterproof, but most are water-resistant.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Hardside | Warranty: 5 years

Calpak’s popularity is right up there with AWAY, but a major difference is the organizational approach of each brand. Almost all of Calpak's luggage has separate sleeves for shoes, zip pockets for smaller items, compartments for magazines, and straps to hold it all in place. Plus, they make some of the best matching luggage sets around, including a full line of accessories that make packing easier.

Christen Nicole , a FORA Travel Advisor and travel blogger, told us the Astyll 3-Piece Set has been her current go-to for travels for the past two years. " I've loved how the polycarbonate shell has kept my belongings secure, and how the spacious interior pocket dividers have kept everything in its place," Nicole says. When it comes to naming her favorite bag in the set, she finds the carry-on to be the best piece overall due to its combination of generous space (up to 45 liters) with a light build (6 pounds in weight).

If you're someone who has to frequently sit on your suitcase to close it, then opting for Calpak will help turn you into an efficient packing pro. The brand's packing cubes and organizers are excellent at categorizing items, and the suitcases are deep and roomy.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: Lifetime

Smart, sexy, and functional as heck, are three words we'd describe Peak Design luggage. The West Coast-based brand originally started in making camera equipment—like carbon fiber tripods—but over time started venturing into camera bags, then everyday bags, then actual travel bags. Products like the Travel Backpack and Travel Duffel offer durable, water-resistant protection for everything from clothes to electronics.

We love how Peak Designs keeps things simple for the look of each bag, making sure to omit tacky logo placements and over-the-top colors, and instead go with a classic all-black look, plus a few natural color combinations on some specific bags.

Samara's luggage pieces are as sleek and stylish as they come. And while they look beautiful from a design standpoint, the one area that deserves recognition is their high level of functionality. We're talking about a strong aluminum frame, 360-degree spinner wheels, and telescopic handles. Plus, all Samsara luggage comes with Tag Smart, which is a unique design configuration made in the luggage to allow for easy placement of your Apple AirTag.

Our Senior Gear and Commerce Editor, John Thompson, likes to use his Samsara carry-on whenever he wants to switch over to a hardshell suitcase. "Right now, there's no other brand making such a well design AirTag holder for keeping tabs on its suitcase," Thompson says.

We also found the built-in portable charger is easy to pop out and use, and it works great when powering bigger electronics like laptops and over-ear headphones .

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Eagle Creek is known for its no-nonsense and affordable gear that caters to outdoor adventurers. The brand makes some of the best dang packing cubes one could buy, and if you follow up the product ladder you'll land on the different luggage pieces those very cubes can be stored inside. Eagle Creek makes only soft luggage, but the materials are often super tear resistant and the designs offer lots of utility and opportunity for smarter configurations of how to store everything from clothes and hiking essentials to camera gear.

Jackson Groves , travel photographer, adventurer, and founder of the travel blog journeyera.com, told us his personal favorite Eagle Creek bag is his Gear Warrior roller suitcase. " The Gear Warrior's rugged construction and water-resistant materials ensure that my belongings stay safe and protected even in challenging environments; and its spacious main compartment and multiple interior and exterior pockets offer ample storage space for all my essentials, allowing me to stay organized on the go," Groves says. " The durable wheels and retractable handle make maneuvering through airports, trails, and uneven terrain a breeze."

What we love the most about Eagle Creek is they have a no questions asked warranty policy, so if something were to get damaged on your travels, the brand will make sure either repair or replace your bag.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: Lifetiime

Osprey makes a number of trusted duffle bags and backpacks that are suitable for minimalist travelers and adventure junkies. The brand shines brightest in its travel backpack offerings. Yes, the packs work amazing for actually backpacking, but due to Osprey's commitment to loading its products with tough materials and premium features—like carrying belts and smart pocket configurations—we've found the backpacks work seriously good for fast weekend getaway trips, no serious outdoor adventuring required.

Scott Cundy, Founder of Wildland Trekking and Intrepid Travel Director of Marketing, The Americas, swears by his Osprey Aether Plus 100 for everything from wilderness backpacking to conventional travel. " It has fantastic capacity at about 6,000 cubic inches, is durable, has an extremely robust hip belt which keeps the weight off my shoulders, and any great pockets," says Cundy. "M y favorite feature of this pack though is how the top loader is removable and becomes a very useable day pack."

The best part about traveling with an Osprey backpack is you can fit your laptop inside with two to three days of clothes and never have to worry about hauling a carry-on or duffel bag to your destination.

Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: 2 years

OGIO can transport a wardrobe quite well, but what the brand is truly exceptional at is transporting gear. Whatever equipment you might want to take with you on your next big trip, an OGIO bag will work as a checked luggage option to get your prized possessions from point A to point B.

This prior notion is especially true when it comes to traveling with golf clubs, as pieces like their ALPHA Travel Cover help you roll your clubs through a terminal without any snagging or other inconveniences. "G reat product to carry clubs. Kept everything safe and has lockable zippers," said one Amazon reviewer.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $ | Hardside or Softside: Hardside | Warranty: 2 years

Coolife prides itself on constant innovation. The company was started in the '80s and has evolved to be as modern and relevant as today's big players, like AWAY and Calpak. The aesthetic is quite similar to such brands, with minimally-hued hardshell cases that protect your precious goods and spin nicely. While you don't get the popular brand name, you will get a far better price point, (we're talking under $200 for a two-piece set), making Coolife luggage a major bang for the buck you're spending.

Plus, the Amazon reviews on Coolife luggage are exceptional. " It [the set] cost less than a single suitcase in other stores and includes perfect sizes with the largest being expandable; don’t hesitate to buy these when you need luggage," said one Amazon reviewer. The three-piece set has over 1,000 five-star reviews alone.

Price Point ($-$$$): $$$ | Hardside or Softside: Hardside | Warranty: Lifetime

For over 120 years, Rimowa has been making hard-sided luggage, first starting with wooden suitcases and then moving to sturdy aluminum bags. Now, RIMOWA uses ultra-lightweight polycarbonate in its bags. The brand is known for pushing the boundaries of innovation. Though they come in at a luxury price point, these bags will last for well over a decade. Just take a look at this review a Rimowa buyer left at Nordstrom.com: " On our first trip using this suitcase, my entire family fought over who got to roll the Rimowa because it was just SO MUCH LIGHTER and maneuverable than our other suitcases. It’s sleek, sturdy, light and has great details and added features." The hard-sided shell might look intimidating at first, but once you feel how lightweight and easy this is to the wheel, you'll wonder why you haven't invested in it sooner.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Hardside | Warranty: Lifetime

If you're looking for unique luggage that will stand out in baggage claim, look no further. Not only are Roam 's designs multi-colored, the brand even offers the option to make it uniquely yours in their own design studio. Roam makes the best-checked luggage for that reason along with being light in weight, easy to wheel around, and extra secure with a locking system. "I was an early adopter of the Roam Journey. I traveled all over the world with it. It is lightweight and the customization options really make it pop on the conveyor belt. No more episodes of other people accidentally grabbing my mundane black bag," said one Roam reviewer.

We had thoughts about the carry-on looking small when we first got our hands on one, but the bag can surprisingly fit many days' worth of outfits. The only con about the carry-on thought is it comes without outer organizational pockets, so you'll have to store smaller belongings and electronics inside the bag.

You're probably going to be most impressed by Monos on this list. The Canadian brand makes luggage with a cool minimalist aesthetic that is efficient in packing space thanks to organized internal compartments and packing cubs. It seems as if the brand has thoroughly thought of every travel hiccup and created its products to solve those common issues. The Monos carry-on features a fold-out tech pocket that doesn't compromise the unbreakable aluminum and polycarbonate hybrid shell. The result of all of this: durable aluminum, lightweight polycarbonate, and soft-sided organization features. The wheels are virtually noiseless, and the brand's accessories snap perfectly into place among the entire line of luggage. It all looks and feels expensive, probably because it isn't cheap—but it will make your travel dreams so much better.

Price Point ($-$$$): $$$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: Lifetime

Filson has captured the hearts of travelers who love timeless rugged design. While the Seattle brand doesn't carry any hard luggage, Filson does make some grade-A soft luggage. Everything from their duffle bags to messenger bags is perfect for short trips and for carry-on duties. One Filson review mentioned how well his duffel bag performed on a trip abroad. " Used it on a 10-day trip to Europe in winter; paired it up with a carry-on and this was perfect to fit bulkier items like boots, sweaters, and jackets," said the Filson.com reviewer.

The initial investment on any Filson bag is a pretty penny, but the quality materials like USA-sourced leather and tear-resistant canvas point to your bag lasting a long long time—and look better with every new sign of wear and tear, no less.

July is another luggage brand that's made a splash in recent years. The attention to detail in design, combined with stylish silhouettes, has brought forth a line of pieces that look great standalone and even better together. "The suitcase packed a lot of clothes very nicely as I traveled all through the Middle East, France, and Amsterdam. It rolls so easily it made the whole trip quite enjoyable. It seems very sturdy, and it is great looking," said one July reviewer.

July luggage comes in a ton of colors and—best of all—the brand offers small personalization services like monogramming and images of your pets. Yes, you heard that right pet parents.

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Why Trust Us

• In order to keep up with new innovations and product releases, the Men's Health editors and writers are continually testing the latest travel gear. Aside from covering travel gear in our evergreen roundups, we also highlight the best new travel gear in our gift guides and annual Travel Awards .
• When it comes to luggage, we make sure to line up real-world testing opportunities anytime we're on assignment or traveling for pleasure. Then, we bring the luggage back to our office to thoroughly inspect each bag to determine what design notes surprised us, and what could use more work.
• We consider how luggage brands appeals to specific types of traveler, as opposed to making generic assumptions that every traveler's needs are the same. We take into account everything from checked bags to carry-ons, to duffel bags and travel backpacks. Travelers who come to us will gain a full understanding of the luggage landscape and how it fits their lifestyle.

Read more: Learn How Men's Health Tests Products

How to Find the Right Luggage

Like your favorite pair of jeans , your favorite piece of luggage is going to come from a brand that fits your lifestyle. When looking for the best suitcase brand, you're going to want to write down what quantities you desire in your luggage. Here's what you should look for.

Frequency of Travel

The right luggage is going to fit with how you travel. If you're only going out of town a handful times a year, then you don't necessarily need to splurge on a super expensive suitcase or suitcase set. In fact, we'd recommend going for a wallet-friendly suitcase or set from brands like Samsonite or Coolife if you're not traveling that often, as these brands will hold up for years with light to medium use and not cost you very much upfront. If you're traveling a lot (for pleasure, business, or both) then you're going to probably want to lean towards making an investment in a piece of luggage that's made to handle continuous wear and tear. "When it comes to buying the right piece for your travel needs, my advice is always to opt for something that fits your lifestyle and budget," says Justin Crabbe.

How You Travel

After estimating how much you will be traveling throughout the year, you can start to write down your travel habits, or how you travel. Do you pack heavy or pack light? What features do you want or need? This is where features like TSA locks, 360-degree wheels, special laptop compartments, built-in portable chargers, and more are to be considered. "Look for ways to elevate your internal organization, like dividers, pockets, and sections that will help you keep your belongings organized and easily accessible during your travels," says Sean Oblizalo. Another note: if you're into adventure traveling, look for a bag that's more flexible, lightweight, and made with weather-resistant materials is your best option. "Look for sturdy fabrics such as nylon or polyester, reinforced stitching, and strong zippers to ensure your luggage can handle the demands of outdoor adventures," says Jackson Groves.

You also want to consider how much you are willing to pay for your suitcase. Some suitcase brands are expensive because they get grouped into high fashion, but suitcases can also be expensive because they're known to last a long time (it's worth mentioning the best luggage brands have a kind of timeless style attributed to them). A few of the best suitcase brands that require a significant investment include RIMOWA, Tumi, and Filson. If you're looking for suitcase brands that provide the best overall value (for the price you pay), consider makers like Samsonite, TravelPro, and CooLife.

Lastly, take note of each luggage brand's warranty. A warranty will help get your suitcase replaced or fixed should it have any issues (like a broken off wheel or damaged handle). Most luggage brands have pretty good warranties these days (usually 5-10 years) but the best warranty you can get on a suitcase is a lifetime warranty. Warranties can be huge for frequent travelers, as your suitcase will wear down with high usage. If you are a frequent traveler, or if you're someone who simply wants the best warranty you can get, go with a suitcase that has a lifetime policy. Premium luggage brands are more likely to have lifetime warranties, so this can be another benefit to going up and investing in an expensive suitcase.

Is Hardside or Softside Luggage Better?

The most popular luggage comes in either a hard-sided or soft-sided structured bag. Like mentioned earlier, the pros and cons of both depend on what you prioritize when you pack. Soft-sided luggage typically has more room for movement, more organizational pockets, and can compress to fit into tight spaces (like the overhead of an airplane). They open with a top flap zip, placing the bulk of storage at the bottom. Softside luggage offers more packing room, but it can throw off the balance of your goods when it’s tossed around and stowed away by airline employees. Basically, soft-sided luggage does not provide as much protection as hard-sided bags—but they are roomier.

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Due to advances in making polycarbonate more durable and lighter, hard-sided bags started gaining popularity in the past few years Hardside luggage features a 50/50 split opening (also called a book opening), making each side an equal stabilizer with an outer shell of hard protection. Polycarbonate shells are typically better for business travel. They stack easily but are usually rigid with zero room to expand like a soft-sided bag. The latest hard-sided bags look sleeker and are easier to clean and move—but they require you to be more strategic in your packing.

Other features that you’ll want to consider are weight and wheelability. Many modern suitcases are designed in the lightest possible form, along with four spinner wheels that can swivel 360 degrees to make rolling around the airport, pavement, or hotel floor a breeze.

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Coordinating carry-ons and checked bags that are worth the investment.

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Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable luggage.

American Tourister Fieldbrook XLT Softside Upright Luggage

Best for Frequent Flyers

Travelpro platinum elite first class luggage set.

Most Fashionable

Calpak ambeur 2-piece luggage set.

Best on Amazon

Amazon basics 2-piece set hardside spinner.

Best Lightweight

Delsey paris helium dlx softside expandable luggage.

Best Maneuverability

Monos for your special someone luggage set.

Most Popular

Away set of 2 classic.

Best Viral Luggage

Béis luggage set of two.

Best Sustainable

Eagle creek migrate 110l wheeled duffel bag.

If you're headed on a long trip or just consider yourself an over-packer, you might need more than one bag for your belongings (not to mention space to overfill with souvenirs on the way home). Instead of lugging around a hodgepodge of pieces, consider a luggage set. There's nothing more chic and put together than carrying a coordinating set of luggage complete with carry-on and checked bags. And if you're vacationing with kids or family, traveling with a matching set is a great way to keep track of all your bags. But with so many options to choose from, including different types of materials and all kinds of organizational features, it can be difficult to decide which luggage sets will look great, hold up to frequent use and really be worth the splurge.

Samsonite continues to stand out in our Lab evaluations and has wowed our consumer testers , earning it the title of best overall luggage brand . This luggage set includes two of our top-tested suitcases from the brand's Freeform collection — the smaller 21-inch carry-on model and the larger 28-inch checked bag. These suitcases are made of durable hardside material that performed well in our drop tests, resisting major damage after being released repeatedly at different angles from a set 3-foot height.

When we packed the suitcases with a standard load of items like clothing, shoes and accessories, we were impressed by how well everything fit inside with room to spare — even without having to use the 2-inch expansion system. One caveat: Some of our testers noted that the carrying handles on suitcases in this collection felt a bit tight, which made it more difficult to lift or lower the bags. However, the telescopic handles received higher scores for feeling sturdy and comfortable to use. Testers also appreciated how easily the suitcases navigated around twists and turns and said the 360-degree spinner wheels were smooth.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch and 28-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

At less than $100 for three pieces, this basic American Tourister trio is an absolute steal and one of the best affordable luggage sets out there. While the softsided carry-on, checked bag and personal item may be simple, they're still full of practical features that make traveling easier like plenty of external pockets, interior mesh pockets and compression straps to secure your belongings.

The brand's bags aren't as durable as others we've tested in the Lab, so I recommend this set for someone who isn't planning to fly frequently. According to one GH analyst who has used this set for nearly a decade, the bags have still held up well to repeated use. She added that the softside polyester material is slightly worn with some fraying and scuffs, but the bags are still useable, and the important features, like the telescopic handles and zippers, are in working condition. When we evaluated other suitcases from American Tourister, testers highlighted the smooth and stable wheels, and online reviewers say they roll nicely, despite only moving forward and backward.

Pieces: 3 | Sizes: 21-inch and 25-inch suitcases, 10-inch personal item | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Originally designed by a pilot for other pilots who are always on the go, Travelpro's luggage is the perfect pick for the frequent flyer, and I'm particularly impressed by the brand's Platinum Elite collection. The softside suitcases were some of the top performers in our durability tests , withstanding repeated dropping without dents or damage. The nylon material resisted signs of wear after being rubbed back and forth with our abrasion tester. They are heavier than many of the other bags we tested, but they are durable bags built to last.

The suitcases are thoughtfully designed with a tapered expansion system that prevents the bags from tipping over when full. Self-aligning spinner wheels let you push and pull in all directions, and cushioned handles with contoured grips add a comfortable feel. Plus, they're packed full of extras inside like expandable garment bags, toiletries bags and hidden USB ports to charge electronic devices (power bank not included). Our testers gave luggage in this collection high scores for ease of use and highlighted the sturdiness of the telescopic handle. If you're nervous about committing to the high price tag, the brand offers a 100-day return policy, even for used suitcases.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch and 25-inch suitcases | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 100 days, any reason

For luggage that looks as great as it performs, I recommend Calpak's Ambeur two-piece luggage set, which offers the best of fashion and function. Available in five fun metallic shades that are sure to stand out at baggage claim, the bags are made of a composite of polycarbonate and ABS plastic that aced our Lab tests for durability. They also proved water-resistant in our evaluations, but did show noticeable markings after we dragged a wire across the surface during our scratch-resistance tests.

The bags are GH-tester favorites and earned top marks for their performance in our luggage obstacle course which had testers pull the suitcases over different surfaces and around sharp turns. Testers especially loved the sturdy and easy-to-use telescopic handle. When we assessed the suitcases in the Lab, we were impressed by the zippers that opened and closed with ease. The spacious interior compartments were able to hold our entire packing load of items including clothing, shoes and toiletries. Both the carry-on and checked bag are expandable and equipped with zippered organizational pockets, compression straps and a removable toiletries bag. For even more organization, you can try Calpak's top-tested packing cubes too.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch and 29.5-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate and ABS composite | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Not only does this two-piece luggage set from Amazon Basics have more than 34,000 five-star reviews, but it also earned high scores in our Lab evaluations and was loved by our testers. The carry-on and checked suitcase both unfold into two main packing compartments, one with compression straps to keep your belongings in place and another with a full zippered panel for even more security. When we packed the carry-on bag in the Lab, we fit an entire weekend's worth of gear including clothing, shoes and toiletries with room to spare. Plus, both of the suitcases expand for even more space.

The hardside suitcases are made of lightweight ABS plastic that keeps the price low, though it wasn't as scratch-resistant as some other suitcases we tested. It did hold up well in our drop tests though, with no serious denting or breakage after being released repeatedly from a set 3-foot height. When testers rolled the suitcases through our luggage obstacle course, around turns and over different surfaces from wood to carpeting, they were impressed by the maneuverability and wheel performance.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 20-inch and 28-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

As the name implies, these Delsey Helium DLX suitcases are some of the lightest we've evaluated in the Lab. No more lugging around bulky bags or struggling to lift your carry-on into the overhead bin. Despite being so lightweight, these bags are tough. In our tests for durability, the luggage held up well after being released repeatedly in our drop tests, and the softside nylon material showed no signs of wear after being rubbed back and forth 15,000 times by our abrasion tester.

In our evaluations, we found the exterior zippers a bit tricky to use, and the bags received lower scores for maneuverability than other suitcases we tried, but they did earn high scores for their comfortable gripped telescopic handles and for being easy to pack. All three of the suitcases open into one primary packing compartment with compression straps, and the lids of each bag are equipped with zippered pockets and elastic sleeves for additional storage. There are removable bi-fold organizers inside as well. I particularly love that the linings can be unzipped and removed for easy cleaning.

Pieces: 3 | Sizes: 20-inch, 25-inch and 29-inch suitcases | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Designed with simplicity in mind, this two-piece set from luggage brand Monos has a sleek, modern look that our testers love. Both of the bags opened to reveal two spacious compartments that were able to fit our entire load of items in our packing tests. The carry-on bag features an adjustable compression panel, while the larger checked bag is equipped with compression straps and a larger fabric panel to keep everything in place. What's more, there are plenty of organizational mesh pockets inside the bags, along with additional shoe bags and a laundry bag to separate your dirty clothes.

During Lab evaluations, the durable carry-on and checked suitcase resisted major denting and damage in our drop tests. Both we and our consumer testers noticed prominent scuffing on the suitcases after use, but the brand provides a sponge for cleaning. One GH analyst said the sponge removed most of the marks on her bag. In our luggage obstacle course, testers appreciated the smooth gliding wheels and loved how effortless it was to maneuver the bags around twists and turns. They also noticed how well the telescopic handles locked into place at four different heights for easy toting.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 22-inch and 26.5-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Popular luggage brand Away carries sets of its best-selling carry-on and large checked bag for a better value — $50 off the full retail price. The hardside suitcases are loved by testers who highlighted the streamlined look and the spacious, well-organized interior. The bags open into two separate packing compartments with zippered mesh panels and pockets for additional space. There's also an adjustable compression panel inside each bag so you can really stuff it full if you're an over-packer like me. When we packed the bags in the Lab, we appreciated how smoothly the zippers opened and closed and how much we could fit inside.

The polycarbonate material is super lightweight — even lighter than some of our favorite softside luggage — and ultra-durable. It performed well in our drop tests, remaining in great condition after being released multiple times from a set 3-foot height. In our scratch tests, the bags showed minimal scuffs and markings. One caveat: Our consumer testers gave the telescopic handle lower ratings for feeling a bit wobbly when fully extended. The bags received high scores for their maneuverability and smooth wheels. If you want to add a personal touch to your luggage set, Away offers monograms of up to three letters for an added fee.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21.7-inch and 29-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

If you're on Instagram or TikTok, chances are that you've come across viral luggage brand Béis . Actress Shay Mitchell's trendsetting travel brand offers carry-ons, checked bags, weekender bags and more — all thoughtfully designed. The suitcases feature details like cushy padded telescopic handles, a retractable strap to hold a small bag or your travel blanket and a built-in weight indicator to let you know if your bag exceeds 50 pounds. I'm especially a fan of the chic monochromatic color options — even the metal of the telescopic handle matches.

When we tested the brand's suitcases in the Textiles Lab, my fellow GH analysts and I were impressed by how well the luggage withstood dents and damage after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. We did note that the material was more prone to scratches and scuffs than other luggage we tested. The suitcases open butterfly style, exposing a spacious zippered compartment and a compartment with a secure compression strap. A few smaller pockets help keep your things organized. You can choose which pieces to include in your luggage set , so the price and number of pieces vary depending on your selections.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: and 28.3 inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No

Whether you prefer traveling with a duffel, want something that will hold up to your outdoor adventures or are looking for a more sustainable luggage option, Eagle Creek has you covered. The brand's Migrate duffels are sold individually, but I like how you can build your own set with five sizes ranging from 40L to 130L. Each bag is convertible: You can carry it with the attached handles or wear it on your shoulders like a backpack. The larger checked sizes can also be tilted back to roll on the ground with the built-in wheels, while the smaller duffels (like the brand's 40L duffel ) make a convenient carry-on.

All of the bags are made of 100% recycled polyester with a TPU coating that's water-resistant and easy to wipe clean. Plus, it's super durable, and one GH analyst who regularly travels with Eagle Creek duffels says the material holds up well to rough use. The duffels have a wide opening to make packing a breeze, and the large zipper tabs are convenient and easy to pull. Once your bag is packed, you can buckle the outer compression straps to secure your belongings.

Pieces: 1 | Size: Five sizes from 40L to 130L (sold individually) | Material: Recycled polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

How we test the best luggage

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , we test all kinds of luggage to determine which pieces are worth buying. We evaluate luggage in the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab and share it with consumer testers who bring the luggage on their own trips and then provide us with valuable feedback. Here's what we look for when we test suitcases:

• Size and weight: To ensure that the brands' listed dimensions for the suitcases are accurate, we measure each bag in the Lab. We weigh the bags and place carry-ons in a 22" x 14" x 9" area to make sure the suitcases meet most airline restrictions.

• Ease of use: We test the luggage to determine how easy it is to open and close zippers and built-in locks, raise and lower the telescopic handles, roll the wheels, grab the carrying handles and more. We then rate and score the luggage for overall ease of use.

• Packing: We fill each piece of luggage with a standard load of items like clothing, shoes, accessories and toiletries (pictured) to test the capacity. For larger checked bags, we pack them with a week's worth of items and for carry-on bags, we add a weekend trip's worth of items. We then score each suitcase on how much it's able to hold.

• Drop testing: We fill the suitcases with a standard amount of weight and then load them into our drop tester (pictured). We then release the luggage from a set 3-foot height and repeatedly drop the luggage from different angles, evaluating each piece for any dents, damages or scuffs.

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.

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Best Checked Luggage To Travel The World With You

Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.

There’s nothing quite like getting your checked bag back, seeing it whirl around the belt to then notice that a wheel is missing or there’s a giant scratch. Checked bags go through a beating, despite slapping a few fragile stickers on it, so having some sturdy luggage is important, especially if you’re a frequent traveler. As a travel journalist, I’ve gone through a few checked bags in my day, and with the help of others’ suggestions and reviews, I’ve compiled a list of some of the best checked bags.

What to consider when choosing checked luggage

When you’re choosing luggage, bigger doesn’t always mean better. It’s important to think about what kind of trips you take, and that you’re going to be the one lugging this around. If you tend to hotel jump, use public transportation, or hop on buses, trains, etc., you might want something more manageable and not necessarily the biggest suitcase you can find. Choose a bag that gives you plenty of room, while still being manageable, comfortable to walk with, and easy to lift.

Flexibility and stretch

We’ve all been there when you buy one too many souvenirs. I traveled to a few of the European Christmas Markets during the holidays and came back with everything from bottles of wine and ornaments, to Christmas gifts for loved ones, so at times your bag will be a little overstuffed. Some flexibility, stretch, and expandable zippers are a really nice feature if your bag is a bit more full than expected and you don’t want to crush anything.

There’s a huge difference between four wheels and two wheels. The 360-degree, four-wheel bags are easier to navigate through the airport, in my opinion.

Organization

This isn’t necessarily the most important feature. You can always get toiletry bags , makeup bags , packing cubes, and your own separate organization, but you’ll want some built-in pockets to be able to separate important items.

Our picks for the best checked luggage

Best checked bag with locks: samsonite winfield.

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Teal, Carry-On 20-Inch

I use a Samsonite as a full-time travel journalist, and I know a lot of people who use a Samsonite in the industry. They have an incredible reputation for a reason. Although the Samsonite Winfield is what I essentially ended up choosing as the best checked bag for most travelers, the Samsonite brand is a great choice in general. The bag is backed by a 10-year limited warranty and the spinner wheels make it easy to navigate through the airport. This bag comes with TSA locks for added protection and pockets for storage and organization.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 9.5 x 14.5 x 23 inches
• Weight: 6.7 pounds
• Material: Polycarbonate
• Price on publish: $103.99 - $149.32

What we like:

• 10-year limited warranty

What we don't Like:

• Some reviews mention scratches show easily

The bottom line:

Any Samsonite bag, especially the Samsonite Winfield, is a reliable option for most travelers.

Get it here: Samsonite Winfield

Best budget checked luggage: Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage, Black, Checked-Large 28-Inch

For a budget choice that is under the $100 mark (though certain colors command higher prices), the Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner is a great option on the market. It has 360-degree wheels, pockets for storing essentials, a telescope handle, all protected by a hardside exterior. It even comes in 14 different colors.

• Dimensions: 17 x 12 x 28 inches
• Weight: 11 pounds
• Material: ABS
• Price on publish: $87.94 - $180 depending on color
• Comes in 14 colors
• Three-piece sets available 
• Expandable zipper
• Some reviews mentioned a plastic smell, saying that the bag needed to air out a bit

For a great piece of hardside luggage under $100, the Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner comes in 14 colors and is a solid option.

Get it here: Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner

Best durable checked luggage: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

For a durable option when it comes to checked luggage, the Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable bag is the way to go. It gives you durability, with a solid exterior made from micro polycarbonate that protects your items and is scratch-resistant. It also comes in nine colors.

• Dimensions: 9.5 x 15 x 22 inches
• Weight: 6.81 pounds
• Material: 100% polycarbonate construction
• Price on publish: $110.54 - $159.99 depending on color
• Comes in nine colors
• Some reviews mention that the wheels can be a little flimsy, so avoid overfilling the bag, making it too heavy on the wheels

For a durable option that comes in nine colors, go for the Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable bag.

Get it here: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

Best lightweight checked luggage: Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin

RIMOWA Essential Lite Cabin Carry-On Suitcase in Green Gloss - Polycarbonate - 21,7x15,8x9,1

For a lightweight checked luggage option, Rimowa has a wonderful selection of suitcases that won’t weigh you down, including the Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin that’s under 5 pounds. Pretty good for hard shell luggage! Although it has a bit of a hefty price tag, it’s built to last you a long time.

• Dimensions: 21.7 x 15.8 x 9.1 inches
• Weight: 4.9 pounds
• Material: Polycarbonate and poly jacquard
• Price on publish: $760
• Comes in three colors
• Rimowa’s lifetime guarantee

For a lightweight luggage option under five pounds, the Rimowa Cabin is a wise investment.

Get it here: Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin

Best checked hardside luggage: Monos Check-In Medium

Monos Check-In Medium

For the best checked hardside luggage, go with the Monos Check-In Medium. With checked luggage, you don’t want to go too big because it can be a hassle. The Monos Check-In has plenty of space, without being huge and annoying to lug around. There’s a telescopic handle and a TSA lock for extra privacy, in addition to a variety of colors, five of which are limited edition.

• Dimensions: 26.5 x 18.5 x 10.5 inches
• Weight: 9.59 pounds
• Material: Aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell
• Price on publish: $325 - $395 depending on color
• 13 colors, five of them limited edition
• Antimicrobial lining
• Handle has four height settings
• Limited lifetime warranty
• Some reviews mention it gets scuffed easily

For a reliable and stylish piece of hard side luggage, go with the Monos Check-In Medium.

Get it here: Monos Check-In Medium

Best checked softside luggage: SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage

SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage, Dark Grey, Checked-Medium 25-Inch

For the best softside luggage, the SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage is a great option. It has 360-degree spinner wheels, front pockets, and an expandable zipper to give you more room, if needed. There’s also great organization inside the bag, and secure spaces to keep things in place. It comes in seven colors and is made with a scuff-resistant fabric.

• Dimensions: 16.75 x 11 x 26.25 inches
• Weight: 9.5 pounds
• Material: Scuff-resistant polyester fabric
• Price on publish: $105.99 - $129.99 depending on color
• It comes in seven colors
• Great organization
• Reviews mention that some colors might easily show stains

If you’re looking for softside luggage that has plenty of space for your next big trip, go with the SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage.

Get it here: SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage

Best expandable checked luggage: Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside Expandable Luggage

Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside Expandable Luggage

For a spacious, expandable bag for the trips where you buy one too many souvenirs (we’ve all been there), it’s good to have an option to give your bag a little bit of extra legroom. Bringing it back to Samsonite, backed by a 10-year warranty, the Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside Expandable Luggage is an expandable option for when you just need a little bit more space than usual.

• Dimensions: 13 x 21 x 33 inches
• Weight: 10.5 pounds
• Material: Polyester
• Price on publish: $229.99 - $349.99 depending on color
• Five colors 
• 360-degree dual spinner wheels
• Some reviews mention that the handles could be stronger

For an expandable option, go with the Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside Expandable Luggage to give you a little more room when you need it on your next trip.

Get it here: Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside Expandable Luggage

Best value checked luggage: Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside Carry-On Luggage, 20-Inch Spinner with Four Spinner Wheels and Scratch-Resistant Surface, Black

Luggage can be pretty expensive at times, so the Amazon Basics section offers budget friendly bag options for a great value. This Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner has four double wheels and a telescopic handle to make it easy to pull your bag next to you through the airport. Priced at under $100, this is a great value.

• Dimensions: 14.76 x 9.45 x 21.46 inches
• Weight: 7.34 pounds
• Price on publish: $80.52
• Four colors
• Four double spinner wheels
• Some reviews say that the handle can be flimsy at times

If you’re looking for a great checked bag to get you through your next big trip, the Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner is a wonderful option at a great value.

Get it here: Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Best checked trunk luggage: LEVEL8 Trunk Luggage

LEVEL8 Trunk Luggage

For a lightweight piece of trunk luggage, this LEVEL8 made from polycarbonate is secure with a TSA lock and a ton of space. This trunk is sleek, with spinner wheels to help you get through the airport with ease. It even comes with a two-year warranty.

• Dimensions: 13.3 x 16.6 x 29.1 inches
• Weight: 11.44 pounds
• Material: 100% polycarbonate
• Price on publish: $299.99
• Two-year warranty 
• Telescopic handles with four levels
• Built-in TSA code lock

For a piece of trunk luggage that is stylish, sleek, and incredibly spacious, go with the LEVEL8 Trunk Luggage.

Get it here: LEVEL8 Trunk Luggage

Best checked duffle bag: The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel

There are quite a few good duffel bags on the market, but nothing really beats the North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel. This high-quality duffel can get you through anything from backpacking through Europe to a safari in Botswana. I personally have this one and it can fit so much more than you think, with cushioned shoulder straps to help you stay comfortable while you’re traveling.

• Dimensions: 22.7' x 13.8' x 8.7 inches
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Material: 300D recycled polyester tarpaulin with TPU laminate
• Price on publish: $125
• Eight colors
• Some reviews mentioned the buckles were iffy at times, but I personally didn’t have this issue

For a spacious duffel that can also be worn as a backpack, go with the North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel.

Get it here: The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel

Best checked luggage for organization: OGIO Terminal Travel Bag

OGIO Terminal Travel Bag

If you’re looking for a lot of organization, the OGIO Terminal Travel Bag is a solid choice. There are large pockets to hold your shoes, clothes, and larger items, with external pockets and dividers to keep smaller items organized and easy to reach. It comes in 10 colors, so you can choose your favorite!

• Dimensions: 29 x 16 x 13 inches
• Weight: 10.6 pounds
• Material: Interior neoprene lining, 420 D doby nylon
• Price on publish: $208.10 - $239.99
• Water-resistant neoprene lining
• Some reviews mention the zipper sticks at times

If you’re looking for a little extra organization in your next travel bag, the OGIO Terminal Travel Bag is a wonderful option.

Get it here: OGIO Terminal Travel Bag

What is the difference between hard-sided and soft-sided luggage?

When choosing between hard-sided and soft-sided luggage, it’s really a matter of preference. I tend to lean more towards hard-sided luggage, but I do have a few bags that are soft-sided. Soft-side bags are generally lighter, so you can subtract that from the weight and fill your bag with more items that you need. Personally, I feel like the hard shell bags protect my items from breaking a little better than the soft bags.

How we selected the best checked luggage

When it comes to selecting the bags, a number of things were taken into consideration. I’m a travel journalist and have gone through a number of checked bags and carry-ons, so I feel like I can provide a certain level of input on a professional level. In addition to my personal opinion, I looked at positively reviewed items on Amazon and scoured the internet for good products with positive ratings.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the best type of suitcase for traveling.

This is a matter of personal preference. I would say as a brand, Samsonite has a really great reputation for a reason. Even if you don’t get the exact bag suggested, the brand is reliable in the travel industry. You can read more in our guides on luggage brands and places to buy luggage .

Is soft or hard luggage better?

Also a matter of personal preference. If you tend to overpack, or generally like to bring back things like bottles of wine or collect fragile souvenirs like ornaments, hardside luggage might be best for you just to add another layer of protection, and to avoid stretching and overpacking. If you’re looking to fit the most items in your bag and have the bag be a lower weight to begin with, soft bags are a great option.

What to avoid when buying luggage?

I have to admit, I’m guilty of this. I love the color black, so I tend to get fun luggage tags and choose black bags that have a little bit of a feature. My current Samsonite hardshell bag has two brown stripes, so it’s easier to pick out with my luggage tags, but generally, it’s a good rule of thumb to avoid black luggage. If you can choose a color that sparks your interest, that’s always best because it’s easier to spot on the luggage belt.

What is the best size suitcase for international travel?

It depends on the type of trip. For an expedition trip where you need a lot of equipment, boots, maybe even coats, you might need a bigger bag to fit everything. If you’re going on an international trip to country hop, using trains, buses, cars, etc., a smaller, more manageable bag might be worth it. It really depends on the trip.

The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.

12 Designer Luggage Brands That Are Perfect for Your Jet-Setting Friend

Or yourself. Prepare for a travel upgrade.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

I already know you’re planning the best travel outfits for your next getaway—whether they’re for a weekend wedding or an international excursion. And if your outfits are already on point, your travel gear may as well be, too, no? Fortunately, if you’re due for a new suitcase, duffel, or weekender bag , I’ve got some suggestions.

Antler Brixham Large

O.G. Aluminum

Rimowa original cabin carry-on.

Iconic Duffel

Louis vuitton keepall bandoulière 50.

Tried-and-True Rollerboard

Tumi extended trip expandable 4 wheeled packing case.

Royal-Approved

Globe-trotter safari carry-on suitcase.

Stealth Wealth

Carl friedrik palissy weekend leather weekend bag.

Vintage-Inspired

Steamline luggage the editor 20-inch rolling carry-on.

All Things Gucci

Gucci savoy small cabin trolley.

Celebrity-Loved

Bric’s bellagio 2.0 spinner trunk.

Sustainable Swap

Paravel aviator carry-on plus.

Below, I’ve found the most stylish and functional designer suitcases and other luggage to invest in for your next handful of travel plans (and beyond). Not only do these high-end bags have room for your travel toiletry bags , but they’re also likely to last you years, if not decades—all while making your days en route feel like a true treat.

If those airline weight limits are your biggest foe, you should consider soft-sided luggage rather than hard cases, as they weigh less—meaning you can pack more. As an added bonus, Antler offers discounts on sets and bundles.

Dimensions: Length: 18.3 inches; height: 31.9 inches; depth: 12.2 inches

Weight: 5.9 lbs

Material: Polyester

Customer review: “Exactly the quality you would expect from an Antler suitcase; I’ve had my previous antler suitcase for so many years I’ve lost count, and it’s still in absolutely fabulous condition...[This one is] super light and roomy, extremely well made, and it’s not bulky at all. There is lots of room. You could easily pack for a 2 week holiday without any issues.”

When it comes to luxury designer suitcases, it doesn’t get more iconic than Rimowa. Most notable for its lightweight aluminum suitcases (which you may recognize from Emily in Paris !) as well as its vertical lines and ultra-smooth 360-degree wheels, this suitcase is the real deal—and it’ll last you a lifetime. (P.S. If you prefer a non-aluminum style, the brand also makes its luggage in polycarbonate, in addition to hybrid suitcases.)

Dimensions: Length: 15.8 inches; height: 21.7 inches; depth: 9.1 inches

Weight: 9.5 lbs

Material: Aluminum, plastic, polycarbonate

Capacity: 34.8 L

Esquire’s review: “If you’re the type of person who wants a pocket in every corner of your bag, this isn’t for you. If you, like me, care about performance minimalism, this is for you.”

For those road trips or quick getaways (or a smaller bag to accompany your bigger luggage), Louis Vuitton’s Keepall Bandoulière 50 is a no-brainer. The LV monogram alone is enough to dress up your travel looks.

Dimensions: Length: 19.7 inches; height: 11.4 inches; depth: 8.7 inches

Material: Coated canvas, cowhide leather

Another favorite for seasoned travelers is Tumi. While the brand makes a variety of quality luggage for any type of travel, this particular suitcase is cute (I mean, would you look at this shade of lilac?!), has 360-degree spinner wheels, and features a recycled polycarbonate shell. Talk about a good investment.

Dimensions: Length: 20 inches; height: 30.5 inches; depth: 11-13 inches

Weight: 12.1 lbs

Material: Polycarbonate

Capacity: 99 L

Customer review: “I loved the size and the color so much that I ordered another piece. My friends all love the color. People with old Tumi luggage are just amazed at how easily it rolls and the color.”

British heritage luggage brand Globe-Trotter makes suitcases for, well, globetrotters. It was also the go-to suitcase brand for the late Queen Elizabeth II. Take that information for what you will.

Dimensions: Length: 15 inches; height: 20.5 inches; depth: 8.5 inches

Weight: 9.2 kg

Material: Leather

Capacity: 40 L

Another family that knows the definition of luxury? The Roys. HBO’s Succession featured a suitcase from luggage label Carl Friedrik, and we already know: if it’s good enough for the Roys, it’s good enough for us. This minimal leather weekender bag features a zipped pocket on the inside, as well as other pockets to hold all your in-flight essentials.

Dimensions: Length: 19.3 inches; height: 9.8 inches; depth: 9.6 inches

Weight: 4.7 lbs

Customer review: “A great looking bag, easy to pack, and lightweight enough to carry through the airport. It’s holding its shape well, and should be a great investment piece for travel for many years.”

SteamLine Luggage specializes in reimagining vintage luggage, and the result is positively gorgeous. Inside the handmade Editor suitcase—which features two silent-glide wheels and a telescopic handle—will be a leaf print, which is so pretty you might just want to leave your suitcase open throughout your trip, honestly.

Dimensions: Length: 14.5 inches; height: 20 inches; depth: 6.5 inches

Weight: 8.8 lbs

Material: Fiberboard, leather, plastic. gold-tone plate

Customer review: “Take functionality, style, and value for money, combine the three, and you have the holy grail of luggage.”

When you’re traveling, everything’s Gucci, right? With this little carry-on (which is adorably labeled as a trolley), it sure will be. This archival design originated in the 1930s, so you know it’s a classic. Of course, it’s gained some modern touches since it first debuted, like 360-degree spinner wheels and a retractable handle, for instance.

Dimensions: Length: 15 inches; height: 20.1 inches; depth: 8.3 inches

Weight: 10.1 lbs

Material: Canvas, leather

The list of celebrities who use Bric’s suitcases includes names like Kate Middleton, Amal Clooney, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Reese Witherspoon, to give you an idea of the family-owned brand’s clientele. And with features like a durable polycarbonate shell, spinner wheels, and Italian craftsmanship, it’s easy to see why A-list stars would love this water-resistant suitcase.

Dimensions: Length: 22 inches; height: 32 inches; depth: 12 inches

Weight: 11 lbs

Customer review: “Lightweight and easily maneuverable for its size. Very durable.”

Those of you looking for something in the more attainable price range that still has a designer feel will love this hardshell suitcase from Paravel. Plus, it’s made with recycled polycarbonate and vegan leather.

Dimensions: Length: 14.7 inches; height: 22.7 inches; depth: 9.6 inches

Weight: 8.2 lbs

Material: Recycled polycarbonate, vegan leather

Customer review: “Best ever. Both beautiful and functional. Love it!”

Away The Large: Aluminum Edition

Ah yes, the luggage brand that took the world by storm. You may know (and adore) Away for its sleek, simple, and more accessible polycarbonate suitcases, but if you want to really up your travel game, the brand also has an aluminum take on its signature luggage, which comes in rose gold, silver, and black. Still, the same suitcase you know the brand for, but tough enough to handle just about anything.

Dimensions: Length: 20.5 inches; height: 29 inches; depth: 12.5 inches

Weight: 16 lbs

Material: Aluminum

Capacity: 95 L

Customer review: “What’s not to say about this suitcase? Extremely durable, smooth as glass, stylish, and eye-catching. Couldn’t be happier with this purchase. Thank you Away for making such amazing products.”

July Checked Trunk

How often do you have the opportunity to travel with a trunk—and a sleek one, at that? July’s glazed polycarbonate offering features twin hatch locks, 360-degree spinner wheels, and a hidden laundry bag, among other things. Want to make it extra special? You can personalize it with your initials (or better yet, the face of your pet!).

Dimensions: Length: 16.5 inches; height: 28.5 inches; depth: 14.5 inches

Weight: 10.6 lbs

Customer review: “I’m obsessed with this classic trunk style! I bought this for my trip to St. Lucia and it fits everything!! The wheels are extremely smooth, love the different handle heights (great for tall people like me!), and the color is beautiful! I will definitely buy more luggage from July.”

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The best affordable luggage: 7 great options under $150 on amazon.

Quality luggage doesn't have to break the bank.

The Best Cheap Luggage

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Travel horror stories can make anyone feel like they need to spend the big bucks on good luggage, but that's simply not the case. While cheap suitcases might make you think of shoddy materials and personal items strewn across tarmacs or luggage carousels, the truth is today's budget-friendly luggage brands offer quality construction at an attractive price.

We've put together a list of the best luggage under $150, including both carry-on bags and checked luggage. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, these affordable luggage options are set to become your go-to bags for every type of trip.

Best Soft-sided Carry-on: SWISSGEAR Sion 6283 21-inch Expandable Carry On Spinner Luggage

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Hard-sided Carry-on: Amazon Basics 20-inch Hard-side Spinner

Best soft-sided checked bag: swissgear 6283 24.5-inch expandable spinner luggage, best hard-sided checked bag: coolife luggage 28-inch expandable suitcase, best duffel bag: samsonite andante 2 32-inch wheeled duffel.

• Best Backpack: ZOMAKE Lightweight Packable Backpack 30L

Best Underseat Bag: TPRC 15-Inch Smart Under Seat Carry-On

(Note: Prices and availability for this luggage were accurate at the time this article was updated; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

Courtesy of SWISSGEAR

What sets it apart: SWISSGEAR consistently earns rave reviews for its durable yet affordable luggage. This soft-sided carry-on bag, in particular, stands out with more than 18,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating on Amazon. The bag has two exterior pockets and two interior pockets, plus a removable zippered wet bag for organization. Adjustable tie-down straps secure clothing and shoes in place. Other features include a built-in ID tag, a locking telescopic handle, multidirectional spinner wheels and multiple carry handles. This SWISSGEAR suitcase is available in a variety of colors, including an eye-catching teal.

Travelers appreciate: Recent buyers agree this bag is roomier than it looks. They also appreciate how effortlessly it rolls on most surfaces.

Price: $119.99 or less

What sets it apart:  Perfect for weekend getaways and other short trips, this hard-sided Amazon Basics spinner provides travelers with the organizational benefits of larger luggage in a compact model. The extra-thick ABS hard shell protects a fully lined interior complete with a divider, clothing straps and three zippered pockets for small items.

These features pair with the suitcase's full 180-degree opening and its ability to expand for up to 15% more packing space (but remember to check carry-on size restrictions before doing so, as this may put the suitcase outside of limits for some airlines). This hard-sided bag also has four double spinner wheels and a telescoping handle to maneuver through tight airplane aisles with ease. It comes with a one-year limited warranty.

Travelers appreciate: Adventurers have used this luggage everywhere from the rough cobblestones of Europe to the bullet trains of Japan , and there is one thing they all agree on: This hard-sided spinner moves like a dream. Recent travelers praise the durable wheels and easy glide for moving across different surfaces smooth and effortless. While the spinner isn't immune to scuffs and scratches, reviewers say the hard exterior has held up across multiple baggage handlings.

Price: $84 or less

What sets it apart: This medium-sized bag – a slightly larger version of our soft-sided carry-on pick – offers enough space for a weeklong vacation. Its pockets can help you stay organized during your travels, too: There are two exterior pockets, two internal pockets and a detachable zippered wet bag designed for toiletries. The expandable bag also has tie-down straps for securing belongings in place (an essential feature for checked luggage ), as well as a locking telescopic handle, top and side handles, and 360-degree spinner wheels.

Travelers appreciate: Travelers praise everything about this bag, from its durability to its maneuverability. They also appreciate that it comes in bright colors that have made it easier to locate at airport baggage claim.

Price: $129.99 or less

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Courtesy of Coolife

What sets it apart: While many affordable hard-sided luggage options struggle to stand up to airport baggage handling, the ABS and polycarbonate material of this spinner provides a light and durable hard shell. Added design elements like the textured scratch-resistant finish and beveled upper edge increase the bag's toughness. Built for durability and ease of use, this expandable Coolife suitcase has multidirectional silent wheels and a sturdy aluminum telescoping handle for smooth travel.

The incorporated TSA lock gives an extra level of security for personal items. The bag's interior comes fully lined with several pockets, clothing straps and a divider to ensure all of your items stay organized. This suitcase already has a large capacity, but it also offers an extra 2.5 inches of space when expanded. It comes with a two-year warranty as well.

Travelers appreciate: Recent travelers love this suitcase's durable wheels and ease of movement, with many commenting on how easily it rolls across different surfaces. They also appreciate the spacious storage and built-in lock, as well as the beautiful exterior and six color options that make it easy to identify at baggage claim. The Caribbean blue, in particular, is even more striking than it looks in photos.

Courtesy of Samsonite

What sets it apart: Designed to maximize convenience and durability, the Samsonite Andante 2 takes duffel bags to the next level. This checked bag is constructed with water-resistant fabric, a locking pull handle, multiple exterior grab handles, corner protectors and bumper runners. There's a separate water-resistant pocket at the end of the duffel to pack your walking shoes or wet items, so your clothes and electronics stay dry.

The main portion of the bag is broken into two parts, with a drop-bottom compartment that's perfect for packing cubes and allows for extra organization when packing. The drop-bottom compartment is accessed by a 180-degree zip opening, and the U-shaped main compartment has a large opening for easy packability. An extra bonus of using this checked duffel bag is the lightweight design, which weighs in at slightly less than 8 pounds despite having wheels.

Travelers appreciate: Recent packers love the spacious compartments and durable materials of the Samsonite Andante 2. As a testament to its quality, travelers have put this bag through the wringer with heavy loads and multiple destinations, and still say the bag barely looks used by the end. They also praise the reliability and affordability of this bag, but some warn it doesn't stand upright easily when filled, a trait common among rolling duffel bags .

Best Backpack: ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L

What sets it apart: Not only does this backpack work well as a personal item for air travel, but it doubles as a day bag you can use at your destination – think cruise excursions, city trips and more. It's incredibly lightweight and foldable, so you can also stuff it in other luggage when not in use. The backpack has one front zippered pocket and two side mesh pockets for a water bottle and other travel essentials. Available in a variety of colors as well as other sizes , it is both water- and tear-resistant.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers appreciate how lightweight and versatile this backpack is, as well as how much it can store.

Price: $21.99 or less

What sets it apart: The ultimate underseat bag , this soft-sided carry-on features a USB port for charging devices on the go. It also has a variety of external pockets, including a side pocket that allows for quick access to the essentials, and there are three additional pockets inside. This bag is available in a few different colors, including black and purple.

Travelers appreciate: Buyers rave about this bag, noting it works well as a personal item. While it fits under the seat on most planes, some recent reviewers note that Frontier has made them stow it in the overhead bin.

Price: $53 or less

Frequently Asked Questions

The following brands offer quality luggage at an affordable price. These brands also offer savings promotions throughout the year:

• Amazon Basics
• American Tourister

The difference comes down to the cost of materials. For example, a hard-sided suitcase like The Carry-On by Away is more expensive because it's made of polycarbonate, a type of plastic that is virtually indestructible. Polycarbonate is more costly than materials like ABS, which is used in the Amazon Basics Hardside Carry-On .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Vasta loved traveling as a student and, as a result, figured out quickly that not all budget luggage brands are created equal. Dealing with everything from broken wheels to stuck zippers, she's had to improvise her way through a lot of luggage disasters. Those experiences helped her figure out what to look for when purchasing affordable luggage. Vasta hopes this article will help other budget travelers avoid her early mistakes.

Amanda Norcross regularly tests luggage and used her personal experience as well as consumer ratings and reviews to choose the best cheap luggage.

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The 11 Best Luggage Sets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

For more efficient traveling, invest in a stylish and functional luggage set.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

When it comes to luggage, the most important thing is a high-quality, reliable design. But to many travelers, aesthetics are a close second. Just like an outfit, it's nice when your baggage looks cohesive and intentional. Plus, a matching set is useful when traveling with your family or partner and any time you need to bring more than one bag.

So, what are the best luggage sets? That depends on your needs, preferences, and taste. To help you narrow it down, we tested over 450 pieces of luggage in our lab using our specially-made airplane set as well as in the real world. We packed up the suitcases, spun them around, rolled them over various surfaces, hoisted them into overhead bins, pushed them off tables, and whacked them with a metal baseball bat to see how they'd perform in a real-life setting. The winners here not only performed well in our tests, but are also available as part of a set. Check out our favorite luggage pieces that are available as matching sets below.

Best Overall

Samsonite hardside spinner.

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

This two-piece suitcase set is lightweight, spacious, and super easy to maneuver.

The suitcases don't have laundry bags or smart features.

After trying 14 pieces of Samsonite luggage, we're big fans of the brand — particularly the Freeform line. This two-piece set includes the Freeform Carry-on (21-inch), plus the matching Checked Spinner (28-inch), both of which expand. The smaller size earned perfect scores in all our tests, thanks to its lightweight and compact yet spacious design. We didn't even need to use the expander to fit everything on our packing list . Though there's no removable laundry bag, these suitcases have various pockets within the main compartments and separators for dirty shoes. The high-strength thermoplastic exterior stood up well to our durability tests. After hitting it with a baseball bat and shoving it off a table, we observed no dents, scratches, or scuffs. It seems water-resistant and easy to wipe clean, too.

The suitcase we tested was a breeze to maneuver, gliding effortlessly on hard flooring, carpet, and even gravel. We also love the minimalist-modern appeal of the Freeform collection and appreciate the many styles and chic color options. All things considered, this luggage set is very reasonably priced, and the brand's 10-year warranty can give you peace of mind about your purchase.

The Details: 2 pieces (21-inch and 28-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | Expandable

People / Tamara Staples

Best Overall, Runner-up

Away luggage set.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Design 4.6 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Away offers discounted two- or three-piece suitcase sets and backs them with a limited lifetime warranty.

The price of this luggage set varies based on your selections.

Away gives you the option to build a set of two or three bags, with a discount of $50 or $100, respectively. We were generally impressed with the pieces we tested , particularly the brand's suitcases. The Large checked suitcase and The Carry-on both earned perfect scores thanks to spacious yet compact designs and enhanced durability. The hardside exteriors of the Bigger Carry-on Flex and Large Flex checked bag sustained zero dents from our bat swings, though we noticed a few scratches after pushing them off a table.

With dual compartments, expanders, compression systems, and dirty laundry bags, these suitcases make it easy to pack and stay organized. They're also a breeze to roll, thanks to the 360-degree spinner wheels. Away isn't the most affordable luggage, but the bundle-and-save deal is definitely worth considering. Plus, the brand has a generous 100-day return window and a lifetime warranty.

The Details: 2–3 pieces (21.7-inch or 22.7-inch, 26-inch, and/or 29-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | Expandable | Smart

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Trunk Set

July trunk set.

We love the glossy exterior of these stylish matching trunks.

These trunks tend to acquire black scuffs, but in our experience, you can wipe them off easily.

These compact trunks are slightly smaller than other travel trunks , but for those who prefer this shape to traditional suitcases, the July Trunk Set is a great option. Both bags are sufficiently spacious and fit our entire packing lists, although we did need to do some strategic arranging in order to easily close the trunks. We do love that each trunk is designed with two durable clips to latch them closed as opposed to zippers, and each latch is built with a TSA-compliant lock right into the device.

Like much of July's luggage , these trunks are both extremely portable as they're relatively light. But that doesn't mean they're flimsy — the glazed polycarbonate shells are durable and only sustained minor dents after we hit each trunk with a bat multiple times. During long-term testing, we noticed that these trunks tend to scuff easily, but it's not hard to remove the marks by wiping them off. Plus, the interior nylon lining is water-resistant and stain-proof, enhancing the sets' longevity.

The Details: 2 pieces (21.7-inch and 28.25-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels

Best Budget

Amazon basics hardside spinner.

• Design 4 /5
• Value 4.7 /5

Amazon's luggage sets are not just affordable, they’re also durable with unexpectedly large capacities.

The suitcases don't have TSA locks or USB ports.

Amazon Basics makes our favorite budget-friendly luggage, and you can save even more by buying it in sets of two or three. We were pleasantly surprised by the hardside spinner suitcases we tested. While we would have appreciated a few more pockets, we had no problem fitting everything on our list without the expanders, which increase the capacities by 15 percent.

Not only that, but the thick thermoplastic shells took our bat swings and shoves like a champ — no dents or scratches to speak of. Though rolling over the gravel wasn't the smoothest, these suitcases were easy to maneuver as well. They don't have USB ports or TSA locks, and the color options are somewhat limited. But considering the agreeable price point and three-year warranty, this is a pretty sweet deal for a luggage set.

The Details: 2-3 pieces (21-inch, 26-inch, and/or 30-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | Expandable

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Expandable

Travelpro hardside luggage set.

• Capacity 4.9 /5
• Design 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

Backed by a lifetime warranty, these smooth-rolling suitcases are notably spacious with built-in expanders.

You won't save money by purchasing the luggage as a set.

All of the Travelpro luggage models we tested earned high ratings, but the Platinum Elite hardside collection might be our favorite. This two-piece set includes a matching carry-on and checked bag, each with spacious, expandable capacities. You can also add matching bags like the underseat duffel or rolling garment bag for a more complete set that fits every travel occasion. We could fit every last item on our list with room to spare, and the expanders add another two inches to the depth. The various pockets, zipper panels, and cross straps help with packing, too.

While we noticed a couple of superficial marks after whacking and shoving the suitcases, they didn't dent or scratch. The carry-on rolled a little better on two wheels than four, but otherwise, the Platinum Elite line is very easy to maneuver. Another thing to note is that buying the suitcases as a set isn't actually more affordable than purchasing them separately. Still, we think the price is fair and appreciate the 100-day return policy and lifetime warranty.

The Details: 2 pieces (23-inch and 30-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | Expandable | Smart

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Most Durable

Delsey paris 2-piece luggage set.

• Maneuverability 4.2 /5
• Durability 4.3 /5

These suitcases have glossy exteriors in your choice of jewel tones, and they don't scuff.

The carry-on isn't as smooth on all four wheels, and the handle feels somewhat flimsy.

We like the stylish and functional design of Delsey's Helium Aero collection. The jewel-toned suitcases will be easy to spot on a baggage carousel, and they won't show up scuffed or damaged. After hitting the bags multiple times with baseball bats, they showed no signs of damage — a sure indicator that they will survive all of your long-haul flights. This glossy hardside luggage set comes with a compact carry-on and a checked spinner suitcase . We didn't need the expanders to fit everything on our packing lists, but since there aren't many interior pockets, you might want to use packing cubes . 

These lightweight suitcases are generally easy to maneuver and turn on a dime. However, the carry-on was slightly rickety on all four wheels, and we thought the handle felt a little flimsy. This luggage brand is one of the most affordable we tried, and you'll save even more by buying a set. Helium Aero suitcases are also backed by a 10-year warranty.

The Details: 2-3 pieces (21-inch, 25-inch, and/or 29-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | Expandable

Best Lightweight

Kenneth cole reaction hardside spinner suitcase set.

These bags both have spacious two-compartment interiors while remaining lightweight.

The hard shells are prone to minor scuffs.

If you tend to overpack , lightweight luggage can help balance out your load. The Kenneth Cole Out of Bounds two-piece set comes with a 5.7-pound carry-on and a 9.6-pound checked suitcase. While they look small, the two-compartment interiors are surprisingly spacious. After packing the checked suitcase with enough stuff to get through a week-long trip, the spinner wheels still turned sharply and moved smoothly on hard floors and carpet.

The sleek yet rugged hardside exterior survived drops and bat hits during testing, sustaining only minor scuffs. These lightweight, durable, and stylish suitcases are an excellent value as is, but you'll save even more by buying them as a bundle. Plus, Kenneth Cole backs the set with a 10-year warranty.

The Details: 2 pieces (20-inch and 28-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels

Coolife Spinner Trolley Suitcase Set

• Capacity 4 /5
• Maneuverability 4 /5

Coolife Spinner Trolleys have strong yet flexible hard shells that resist dents, scratches, and scuffs.

They are not expandable.

Durability is essential for luggage, and Coolife doesn't disappoint. While this isn't the least expensive set on our list, the brand's two-piece Spinner Trolley Set includes a sizable checked suitcase and a carry-on that prove durable and long-lasting. These suitcases are made of ABS+PC (acrylonitrile butadiene and polycarbonate), a super-strong thermoplastic blend. After whacking the carry-on with a bat and shoving it off multiple surfaces, there was no visible damage.

These suitcases aren't expandable. However, the slightly flexible hardside exterior and stretchy cross bands made it easy to stuff in everything on our packing list in organized compartments. And the bags have TSA locks for an extra layer of protection. The four-wheel design is a piece of cake to maneuver, too, though it doesn't roll as smoothly on two wheels. Though Coolife's two-year warranty is relatively short, we wouldn't be surprised if this luggage set lasted several years. Considering the affordable price, you'll get plenty of bang for your buck.

Best Eco-friendly

Paravel aviator set.

• Design 4.9 /5

These durable, carbon-neutral suitcases are made of recycled materials and aircraft-grade aluminum.

We wish each side of the suitcase was a bit deeper to fit bulkier items.

Looking for eco-friendly luggage? Paravel is your best bet. Not only are these some of the most elegant suitcases out there, the brand is also dedicated to keeping its suitcases carbon-neutral , the brand offsets emissions at every point, from sourcing and assembly to shipping and delivery. We tried the Aviator Carry-on Plus and Grand Checked models, which are made of recycled materials and exceptionally durable aircraft-grade aluminum.

Though they don't expand, we loved the spacious compartments, dividers, pockets, compression panels, and removable laundry bags. For long trips, these suitcases were especially helpful since they are so light, you can really pack them to capacity without wasting any precious weight on the shell itself. Both suitcases stood up to our durability tests and only showed minor scuffing after being checked during six different flights. They were also easy to push, pull, and roll over multiple surfaces. The sophisticated aesthetic doesn't hurt either. While Paravel's price range is slightly steep, the brand backs its luggage with a 10-year warranty.

The Details: 2 pieces (21.7-inch and 28-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels

Best Maneuverability

Delsey paris chatelet 2-piece set.

The classically stylish suitcases are easy to maneuver over any surface.

They do not expand, so they can be difficult to pack.

If you're looking for a stylish luggage set that includes plenty of storage options, security locks, and easy-to-maneuver 360-degree wheels, consider the Delsey Paris Chatelet set. Whether you're interested in a carry-on and 28-inch checked bag , a 24-inch and 28-inch checked bag , or all three , this collection is perfect for every adventure. Despite their light, sleek coloring, all three bags survived being hit with bats multiple times without so much as a scratch during testing. In fact, after we checked them on multiple international flights, the 21-inch carry-on and 24-inch medium checked bag both survived with minimal scuffs that we could easily wipe away.

We also loved the bags' four 360-degree wheels that make rolling an absolute breeze. Throughout three months of real-world testing, we found ourselves running through airports, maneuvering onto escalators, and pulling the suitcases over curbs, sand, dirt, and asphalt without any issues whatsoever. And when it comes to lifting, the Chatelet set proved to be lightweight. Plus, the handles quickly slide back into the case, so you don't skip a beat going from pulling to carrying. We brought this set on planes, trains, and even cruise ships, and the suitcases easily navigated every surface and fit in every small corner.

The Details: 2 or 3 pieces (21-inch and 28-inch; 24-inch and 28-inch; or 19-inch, 24-inch, and 28-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Best Design

Béis hardside luggage set.

• Design 4.8 /5

Béis suitcases have roomy compartments, zippered sections, multiple pockets, laptop sleeves, and separate pouches for shoes or laundry.

The lighter colors may show scuffs.

Béis is already known for its accessible price points, but you can save 10 percent on a set of two hardside suitcases or 15 percent on three. Founded by actress Shay Mitchell , the brand is among the best for organization. Earning perfect scores for capacity, organization, design, and maneuverability during our tests, these are some of the easiest bags to pack and help keep your items easy-to-access throughout your whole vacation. We tried the Carry-on Roller and Large Check-in Roller, each with two roomy interior compartments, a zippered mesh section, multiple smaller pockets, a padded laptop sleeve, and a separate pouch for shoes or dirty clothes.

The suitcases are also conveniently expandable, and four-point compression straps help keep everything in place. The hard shells feel sturdy and thick yet flexible, and we only noticed a small scuff after hitting them with a bat. Béis luggage is easy to push on its spinner wheels, and we had no problem lifting it overhead. A 90-day return policy and a lifetime warranty are icing on the cake of an all-around great luggage set, and it's possible to add other smaller bags like weekenders in coordinating colors, too.

The Details: 2–3 pieces (21-inch, 26-inch, and/or 29-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | Expandable

Other Luggage Sets We Liked

We have a few more luggage sets we feel confident recommending after testing, although we didn't like them quite as much as the others on our list.

Antler Brixham Set : We love that these softside bags are shockingly strong and let you squeeze in more items than more structured hardside suitcases. However, they have a fairly basic design without additional pockets or storage compartments.

Travelpro Roundtrip Carry-on/Medium Check-in Hardside Set : We like this set for how spacious and stylish the suitcases are, but the checked size held up much better than the carry-on in our durability tests; when we hit the carry-on with the baseball bat, the reinforced corner of the suitcase chipped and flew off.

The Travel + Leisure team has tested more than 450 pieces of luggage in the lab, our New York City testing facility that features an airplane set with a real row of seats and overhead bins. To see how they'd hold up in a real-life setting, we packed them full of clothing and other items; rolled them over hard floors, carpet, and gravel; placed them in an overhead bin ; hit them with a metal baseball bat; and shoved them off tables.

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

After awarding each model a score for capacity, maneuverability, durability, design, and value, we narrowed it down to those with the highest average ratings. The winners of this roundup not only performed well in the lab and during six months of real-world travels but are also available in matching sets. We will update this article as we continue to test even more luggage sets that we like.

Tips for Buying a Luggage Set

Decide if you want hardside or softside.

You'll see many hardside and softside options when browsing luggage sets. Rigid exteriors offer better protection against crushing, and while lighter colors are often prone to scuffing, they're easy to wipe clean. Softside suitcases are sometimes trickier to clean, but they conceal dirt and scuffs (and can be just as durable as hardside models). Softside suitcases are a bit more flexible when packing, too.

Only get what you need

It might be tempting to buy a luggage set with three or even four pieces, especially if it's available at a discount. However, we recommend getting only what you need and know you'll use. Two suitcases are plenty for most individual travelers, but you may need more if you're traveling as a family, with a partner, or heading on an extended trip.

Look for luggage that you can nest

Some luggage sets are designed in a way that allows you to nest the smaller pieces inside the larger pieces. This is ideal for storage so that you only have to find space in your home for one large suitcase rather than two or three various sizes. The product listings will sometimes indicate this, like when Away's carry-on suitcases note "Nests in checked." If it does not say this in the product description, use your judgement and try to get two bags with a significant size difference so that you can try to fit one inside the other, like fitting a 21-inch carry-on suitcase inside a 28-inch checked bag, like our best overall Samsonite suitcases in this article.

Prioritize well-made items

Even the least expensive luggage sets are an investment, so you want to choose a long-lasting design. It's important to select high-quality luggage that can withstand rough baggage handlers and other stresses of travel while protecting all of your items. When looking for a new luggage set, you should prioritize durable cases that won't scuff or tear, sturdy wheels that can handle the bag's weight, comfortable handles that won't break, and quality interiors that will keep everything you pack safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many travelers appreciate the crush-resistant exterior of hardside suitcases , especially if they're traveling with tech equipment or want to avoid wrinkling delicate clothing . The rigid exteriors are also easy to clean and flaunt a sleek, modern appearance.

That said, softside luggage can be very durable, plus it's easier to stuff full and often has external pockets where hardside models don't. The choice is ultimately a matter of personal preference, though all of our winning sets in this article happen to be hardside suitcases.

Oftentimes, buying sets can save you money since many luggage brands offer suitcase sets at a discount. However, other companies simply bundle pieces to demonstrate the ability to build your own matching set, which can be helpful when searching for your bag at a luggage carousel. If a discount isn't mentioned when you're buying a luggage set, you can add up the individual bag prices and compare that total to the bundled price to see if it's a better deal.

Most sets include two or three pieces of luggage with at least one carry-on item and one checked item. Sets that offer three bags usually provide an additional checked bag of a different size. If you're a frequent traveler, heading off on a long adventure, or traveling with family, you may want a three-piece luggage set to give yourself more options and packing space while maintaining the convenience of matching.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, commerce writer Theresa Holland combed through our luggage testing insights, researched each brand, checked warranties and return policies, and crunched the numbers on buying luggage sets versus individual pieces. T+L editors personally tested each luggage piece in our lab, and we will continue to update this article as we test even more luggage sets.

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