In the near-decade that 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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The warranty process may not be as easy as it should be. We’re tracking a few complaints that the Travelpro Platinum Elite warranty system is difficult to navigate. That said, we haven't heard of many reports of people ever being denied their claims, only that initiating or entering your claim is potentially onerous or unwieldy.
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.
This great-looking, relatively resilient piece of hard-sided luggage matches our hard-sided carry-on pick. It has the same top-of-the-line components—including wheels that roll as smoothly as any we’ve tested.
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.
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 , 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 $65. 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.)
It comes with no suit panel. The lack of a 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.
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.
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.
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 nearly 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. If it does become damaged, user-replaceable parts and a network of repair centers located around the world make quick fixes easy, and the reliable lifetime warranty covers all repairs.
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.
The handrails are exposed. 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.
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. However, airlines may flag the Monos as oversize.
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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.
Some airlines may flag this bag as oversize. We’ve heard from one traveler we know that Delta charged them an oversize fee when they checked their Monos Hybrid Trunk. Other airlines have, in our experience, been more lenient. If your chosen airline has a reputation (as Delta does) for being persnickety, maybe skip this bag.
It might be best for one-destination trips. Another 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.
It has no suit folder. Like the Away, the Monos Hybrid Trunk doesn’t have a dedicated suit compartment for dresses or formal wear. Again, though, with this much space to pack in, there are a number of ways to protect such clothes.
There are literally thousands of suitcases, trunks and carry-on bags to choose from these days, but which are the best luggage brands of ? Kitting yourself out with a suitcase that really performs is a travel game-changer. This claim might seem like overkill, but until you’ve experienced the difference between your bog-standard wheel-along and something really best-in-class, it’s hard to comprehend the difference it can make. Gone are the days when your case flips over as you’re trundling along a bumpy street; no more nights before travel desperately trying to force the lid of your bag closed; chaotic packing? A thing of the past.
Our editors are the epitome of seasoned travellers, traversing the globe with a need for speed, simplicity and organisation. So, when a piece of luggage impresses us, you know it’s one you’ll love. In our minds, the best suitcase is one that looks great without compromising on robustness, that never lets us down and is easy to use.
We’ve learned the hard way that not all suitcases are made equal, so now you don’t have to. Instead, you can take your pick from this tried and tested selection of the best luggage brands of .
How we tested the best luggage brands
Our editors Charley Ward and Lauren Burvill, have personally trialled a huge number of bags from a variety of luggage brands, and thoughtfully selected their favourites, based on function, innovation and style. Every piece of luggage we try gets a test-run through the office, before being passed on to other members of our team to take on their travels and test in a real-world scenario.
We don’t just test suitcases when considering the best luggage brands of , we’ve had a go of everything, from kids scooter cases to enormous trunks, to underseat cabin bags and weekender duffels. We test multiple bags from every brand to get a feel for function and quality across the board, taking into account value for money, creative storage solutions, aesthetics and whether they can take the hit at baggage reclaim.
How do I choose a suitcase?
When choosing the perfect suitcase, it all comes down to your unique needs – and the restrictions of your chosen airline. If you struggle to carry heavy bags, wheels are a must. Going to carry-on only? Your suitcase will have to be the right weight and dimensions. Tend to overpack? Maybe what you need is a trunk, not a suitcase, that offers more space. There's a lot to consider, and you might need more than one style for different types of travel, too.
In general, we recommend looking for:
The winners of the Reader's Choice Awards : best luggage brands
These are the best airlines in the world, according to the Readers' Choice Awards. The scores below are percentages representing overall average levels of satisfaction.
15. Horizn Studios. Score 85.56
14. Carl Friedrik. Score 86.26
13. Monos. Score 86.30
12. July. Score 87.22
11. Eastpak. Score 88.67
You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Huicheng.
10. Bric’s. Score 89.17
9. Victorinox. Score 90.67
8. Globetrotter. Score 90.77
7. Delsey. Score 90.89
6. Briggs and Riley. Score 91.07
5. Away. Score 91.11
4. Tumi. Score 92.50
3. Antler. Score 93.33
2. Rimowa. Score 95.56
1. Samsonite. Score 98.33
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We’re so grateful that Nere has moved out of Australia and made it all the way to the UK, because their luggage is on another level. With a huge range of vibrant colours and styles to choose from, this one is certainly fashion-forward and perfect for anyone who likes to stand out from the crowd (kind of handy on the carousel). Unsurprisingly, this brand has become a firm favourite with influencers, but there’s more to these suitcases than looks alone. The whisper-quiet dual spinner wheels make these a total breeze to pull along over any surface, while the scratch-resistant hard shell and TSA-approved locks make it (and your precious cargo) completely secure. Every bag comes with a 10-year warranty, and is available for what we feel is a very reasonable price.
Price range: from £119 for the cabin suitcases to £119 for the large check-in cases.
Our pick: the Stori 75cm suitcase
According to our editors: “Our Nere Bondi carry-on case didn’t feel as sturdy upon opening as some of the polycarbonate luggage we’ve tried, but the larger checked case didn’t feel like a compromise at all. As such, given the low price and 10-year warranty, this is a small gripe – they’ve impressed on several long trips, including a schlep to the Maldives and back. These cases have wheeled with good maneuverability every time we’ve travelled with them and the cheery look makes them easy to spot on the carousel. I also like that there’s matching accessories available and most cases come with an included wash bag – another boon given the low cost.” Charley Ward, commerce writer
You’ll have seen this reliable German brand mentioned in many of our best bag roundups, and that’s because they really know how to make a great suitcase. Horizn Studios provides all-vegan material bags that come with a lifetime warranty. They’re eco-conscious, ensuring even their shipping is carbon neutral. We’ve been impressed by so many of their suitcases, including their new plant-based hard-shell product line, Circle One. If we had to choose one bag from their range, it would have to be the M5 – a partly recycled hardshell suitcase that just excels on every level. There’s enough space in this for you to pack for a week, it’s got a front laptop pocket, TSA locks and multiple zippered mesh compartments. Horizn luggage is built to last, so the price point offers great value for money, too.
Price range: from £360 for the cabin suitcases to £490 for the large check-in cases.
Our pick: their classic H5 cabin luggage and the H6 check-in.
According to our editors: “There’s nothing like battling through torrential rain and gale force winds to really test a suitcase, and that’s what I had to face with the Horizn Studios H6 on a recent work trip to Edinburgh. Impressively, this German-engineered suitcase took on Storm Éowyn like a champ, with the polycarbonate shell handling any knocks and bangs with ease, while the Japanese 360° spinner wheels made gliding through the station and hotel lobbies totally effortless. Edinburgh’s cobblestones were slightly more of a challenge to move across, but it stood up to the task nonetheless. Inside, the design is nothing short of masterful, with recycled mesh screens, water-resistant lining, and space for everything. I love how the case looks, too (the Glossy Purple Night colour is striking) and, despite being seriously tough, it’s lightweight and sustainably crafted with 99 per cent waste-free production. If you’re looking for the perfect balance of style, function and eco-conscious design, the H6 does this beautifully. And the lifetime warranty? Proof that not all good things come to an end." Preshita Saha, Director of Content, CNT Global Video
Despite being fairly new on the luxury luggage scene compared to other heritage brands, Carl Friedrik is no doubt here to stay. Since the launch in , this brand has skyrocketed to the top to sit alongside companies that have been producing trustworthy travel goods for generations. Best known for exceptional quality leather travel accessories and bags, their hardshell suitcase range is something a little bit different, but still in keeping with the outstanding design and function we’re used to.
Its polycarbonate luggage range is beautiful to look at, with a design that is a contemporary take on a classic style and featuring their signature leather trim. But there’s substance too! These cases are zip-free, instead closing with an incredibly sturdy aluminium lock frame. Although streamlined on the outside, there are numerous organisational pockets inside and 360 spinner wheels for an easy-glide action, whether running to your gate or searching for your hotel on cobbled back streets. Prefer a regular zip? Look to the brand's Core line instead. Each case comes with a lifetime guarantee and a 100-day trial period.
Price range: from £385 for the cabin suitcases to £565 for the large check-in cases.
Our pick: the Carry-on X is one of our favourite tried and tested carry-on suitcases.
According to our editors: “I travel regularly with the carry-on pro style, and love the way it looks and navigates. The organisational pockets are really well thought out and designed. What really sets the brand apart is the aluminium lock frame, which feels incredibly safe and secure – although it can be a little tricky to lock in place if the case is really full." Sophie Knight, visuals editor
“These are some of the most elegant cases on the market, and the build quality of the range feels just as lovely as the aesthetic. I have the new Core carry-on, which switches the brand’s usual clasp-style lock for a zip, which I prefer personally – it makes it much easier to close when it’s really full. The suitcase is easy to handle and the soft suede-like brushed finish inside is lovely too – I’ve never seen anything like it in any other piece of luggage. I have the cream option, which is lovely but prone to scuffs – go for a darker colour if you want to fully preserve the chicness for as long as possible.” Charley Ward, commerce writer.
Antler is nothing short of a British establishment – still based in London today and a household name since it was originally established in Lancashire by John Boultbee Brooks, in . With fans around the world, and a fantastic selection of superior quality luggage, this one was always going to have a place on our best luggage of list. When testing, the bags didn’t let us down. As expected, each suitcase was of solid construction, elegantly designed and full of handy pockets and compartments. Our top pick is the best-selling, hard shell Icon Stripe suitcases, available in a range of colours and sizes. If you want to get even more out of the roomy interior, stock up on some Antler packing cubes, too.
According to our editors: “I have the Clifton luggage set in mineral and absolutely love it. The cute cabin case is the perfect bag to take on any weekend getaway. All of them are lightweight while still being sturdy and are a dream to whip around busy airports. Each case within the set sits neatly within the other, too, so it's very easy to store.” Lauren Burvill, commerce editor
Price range: from £170 for the cabin bags, £240 for the large checked bags, sets of three start at £527.
Our pick: the Cabin with pocket is one of our top-rated carry-on luggage options. The useful exterior pocket for a laptop makes it a great choice for business travel. We've also reviewed the Antler overnight bag and think it makes a great under-seat carry-on bag when flying on easyJet.
Antler Icon Stripe Cabin with Pocket SuitcaseAntler Logo medium suitcaseThere’s something really special about the luggage from July. Rather than sticking to the usual design, the core team pored over 4,000 reviews of other bags to find out where suitcases are failing and what people really want, before bringing their hard shell range into the world. As you might expect, this attention to detail and consumer needs has ended up in the creation of a suitcase line that ticks all the boxes, from reinforced construction to silent spinner wheels. Despite being extremely impact-resistant, these cases are lightweight and full of internal compartments. If you love personalising your luggage, this one has an unusual add-on – you can have a picture of your pet printed on the side!
Price range: From £195 for the smallest cabin suitcase to £295 for the largest check-in rolling case.
According to our editors: “My July carry-on is by far the lightest suitcase I’ve ever tried. Struggling to wrangle my case in and out of the aeroplane’s overhead compartments is now a thing of the past – much appreciated for long haul international travel and you’re running to catch your connection after minimal sleep. If you’re looking for a new lightweight carry-on, you won’t get better than this. But my favourite aspect is how quiet the wheels are in use, even over bumpy cobblestones. The good quality telescopic handle makes life easier when manoeuvring around busy airports, too.” Charley Ward, commerce writer.
According to our editors: “I have the Checked Plus case in shadow lavender, which makes it super easy to spot on the luggage carousel. The July Checked is very light and easy to travel with and the wheels are impressively smooth. As a bonus, this case unzips to provide a precious extra few litres of capacity, so overall you could probably squeeze in enough items for a three-week trip if you’re savvy. I used the internal pockets for toiletries and fragile items, and the compression system works well to keep everything securely in place, even without packing cubes.” Louis Delbarre, production assistant
Our pick: Their zippy Carry On Light, the world's lightest carry-on suitcase and our recommendation for best lightweight suitcase.
July Carry Me Crossbody Bag, ForestJuly Carry All Weekender PlusIf you love minimalist design, Monos is the luggage brand for you. Hailing from Vancouver, fashionistas have been raving about this range of premium luggage since its inception in , and we’re joining them. We love the timeless design and high-quality manufacturing that produces suitcases to last. If you’re keen to keep your valuables intact on a long haul trip, the aerospace-grade polycarbonate shells from the Monos range will see you through, and the recycled materials used in its construction mean you’re doing your bit for the planet, too. Monos is also the first luggage brand to earn climate-neutral certification, meaning it’s achieved net zero carbon emissions as a company – clever stuff.
Go bold or go home! The iconic Away luggage range is famed for its gorgeous colour selection, showcasing everything from Sorbet Orange to Splash Blue, and we are very much here for it. In , founders Jen Rubio and Stephanie Korey launched this start-up in New York with a view to change the travel game, with stand-out luggage that has taken everything you need into account. All of the hardshell polycarbonate cases (available in a range of sizes) are lightweight and durable, with quick-release trolley handles, 360 spinner wheels and an interior compression system. Some even come with in-built chargers. No matter whether you choose their carry-on, check-in, or weekender bag, you’ll love this luggage brand as much as we do.
According to our editors: “It was easy to pack, with plenty of storage options, compression straps and an expandable zip. It was a dream to navigate through a busy airport thanks to its spinner wheels and sturdy frame. I’m such a convert that I’m considering investing in the matching carry-on size and packing cubes for my next trip home." Abigail Malbon, who moved to another country using the Away Large Flex suitcase
“I’ve used Away suitcases for years and despite the fact I was initially drawn to the design and the colour options, it’s actually the hard shell, light weight and genuinely smooth-sailing wheelie functionality that I love the most. The medium is plenty big enough for a long haul trip, in my opinion (anything bigger and I’d end up over-packing), but the larger carry-on is the perfect weekend option, especially if travelling by train or Eurostar. Two equally sized interior compartments make arranging packing cubes easy, and the optional full-sized middle sleeve works well for valuables or anything you want to be able to grab easily, like an adaptor, or spare sunglasses.” Sarah Bannerman, acting commerce editor
Price range: from £245 for the cabin bags, £665 for the large aluminium checked luggage, the cabin and the medium set together is £510.
Away The Large Everywhere BagAway The Insider packing cubes, set of 4Our pick: The Medium Flex.
Sling bags, duffel bags, laptop bags, backpacks… this San Francisco luggage brand has it all. Since its conception in , following a successful crowdfunding campaign for its combination gym/office bag, Aer has transformed into a luggage brand that really deserves recognition. For flights, we recommend the new carry-on suitcase, which wowed everyone in the Traveller office with its innovative tech. As well as whisper-quiet Hinotomo wheels and a compression system (complete with magnetic fasteners) designed to help you fit as much as possible into the restricted space allowed for cabin bags, this suitcase comes with a hidden smart tracker pocket, too. The lifetime warranty is just the cherry on the cake.
Price range: From £99 for a backpack to £319 for the carry-on case
Our pick: The carry-on suitcase
According to our editors: Anyone who knows me will tell you that I'm not a 'dainty' traveller; I've been known to throw my long-suffering suitcase around like a ball on a string. In fact, I've had more suitcase breakups and breakages than boyfriends, but thanks to the Aer carry-on, I'm settling down for good. The wheels are some of the smoothest I've ever had the pleasure of wheeling, the handle has four stopping points, making it easy and comfortable to move around, and I love the minimalist, smoothed-out shell. Though it's not immune to scratches (none of us are), it's certainly able to carry on regardless. Anya Meyerowitz, contributor
Aer Gym Duffel 3Aer Day Sling 3 Max X-PacIf eco-credentials are high on your list when choosing which brand to buy from, Paravel needs to be on your radar. Their Aviator Grand is the world's first carbon-neutral suitcase, an accolade achieved not only by making the case from recycled materials (primarily sourced from discarded water tanks), but also by offsetting all carbon emissions generated during sourcing, production, assembly, shipping and even your first trip with the bag. The suitcase itself is strong, built to a very high standard, and is so roomy you can pack enough for a 10-day trip. As well as having a spacious main compartment, there are also internal organisation pouches made from recycled plastic bottles, a compression board and 360 carbon steel bearing spinner wheels for an easy ride. In our opinion, this is one of the most stylish check-in cases at this price point, available in five different colours and featuring smart recycled vegan leather accents. See our full Paravel luggage review.
Price range: from £435 for the cabin suitcases to £525 for the large check-in cases.
According to our editors: “I took the Aviator Grand case travelling with me for a two-week trip around Asia on four different flights, so it’s been really put through its paces. As it was being passed around a lot, I appreciated the lock on top of the case, and it was the perfect size for a 14-day trip. I used the built-in pockets for items such as underwear and swimwear, so the main compartment was free for bulkier items. But the main thing I love about this case is how it looks – it’s gorgeous with its cream and tan leather finis,h and the interiors are a lovely contrasting blue, which I wasn’t initially expecting upon opening.” Sophie Knight, senior visuals editor
Our pick: The Carry-on Plus vegan leather trimmed hardshell suitcase and the Aviator Grand.
Rimowa is a German designer brand that is offering a new era of suitcase design, with high functionality at its core. Their range consists of some of the slickest suitcases on the market, and we particularly love their Essential Cabin Bag – a hardshell case, made out of high-performance polycarbonate, with a patented compression system unlike anything we’ve seen elsewhere. Other cases are available in aluminium, if that’s your preference, but for us, the Essential Cabin Bag is perfect for frequent flyers who like to travel light. The dual organisation interior allows as much space as could possibly be mustered for a carry-on, while the ball bearing wheels and cushioned axis make it a dream to travel with.
Price range: from £465 for the cabin suitcases to £1,340 for the large check-in cases.
Our pick: the Essential cabin bag.
Makers of the iconic Swiss Army Knife have taken all that ingenuity and put it into suitcase form! The Victorinox cases are full of secret gadgets and fold-out compartments, including a removable multitool (cabin-friendly!) and USB charger (battery pack sold separately). To give you the most packing room possible, the Lexicon case boasts ‘super recessed spinner wheels’ and a neatly tucked away handle, so you won’t have any bits sticking out, making it tricky to place in the overhead locker. As well as the standard compression fittings and zipped pockets inside, the Lexicon also has a waterproof compartment and a fold-out shirt hanger that can be removed and hung up when you arrive at your destination. All Victorinox luggage is covered by a warranty that lasts up to eleven years. If you travel often and don't pack light, this one is worth the investment.
Our pick: the Lexicon hardside.
Victorinox Spectra 3.0 frequent flyer carry-onVictorianox Airox Advanced Large CaseNot all high-end suitcases are hard shell, as demonstrated by American luggage brand, Tumi. Since their launch in , Tumi has gained global notoriety for its collection of soft ballistic nylon travel bags that we think are some of the best pieces of soft-sided luggage on the market today. They look simple, but are actually steaming ahead in innovative and sustainable design. The lightweight, Slim Super Leger is on bag we really rate – this one has a USB port for your handheld devices, multiple internal and external pockets and a free monogramming service. Every piece of luggage they make goes through a thorough testing process (sometimes up to 30 unique tests), to ensure they meet extremely high standards. For those all-important eco-credentials, this brand uses recycled materials to make their cases, and offers a global repair network programme. Although we love the soft case, Tumi is best known for its signature aluminium cases, as well as its limited-edition collaborations, including with supercar maker McLaren.
Price range: from £540 for the cabin suitcases to £1,580 for the largest aluminium rolling case.
Our pick: International Slim Super Léger Carry-On.
Think Lake Como, think luxury. It’s a beautiful part of the world, and as it just so happens, Bric’s produces luggage out there that radiates that same elegance. Crafting bags since the s, decades of dedication to creating products that elevate your lifestyle and travel experience has paid off. Now the Italian brand has brought out a vintage-style travel trunk we couldn’t be more impressed by the result. The Bellagio case is in a league of its very own, with a frankly stunning retro design and all the mod cons you could wish for. It’s got a USB port, a front compartment, zipped interior pockets and four 360-degree spinner wheels for a really stable pull-along action. We can’t fault it!
Price range: from £465.
Our pick: the four-wheel cabin suitcase.
Ever worry that your luggage might exceed the weight limit, even if you’re within size restrictions? Well, if you don’t make a purchase from our list of best luggage scales, you’ll be delighted to read that this is just one example of attention to detail that cult label, BÉIS, has put into their designs. A built-in weight limit indicator in the 26” check-in suitcase will keep you right, but if you do go over, you’ve only your overpacking to blame because we’re also awarding this the prestigious title of best lightweight luggage. Weighing in at just 4.2kg for a full-sized case is something we think is worth celebrating. Aside from their check in cases, we also love this brand’s Weekender bag (which you can colour match with the check in suitcase to be super chic), which looks like a very stylish oversized handbag, but has some fancy extras like a hidden shoe compartment at the bottom and a back pocket that can be transformed into a trolley sleeve. Smart!
Price range: from £223 for the cabin suitcases to £335 for the large check-in cases.
Our pick: the carry-on roller with the matching weekender bag.
According to our editors: “I’ve used my BÉIS weekender bag on multiple trips away and I’m continually surprised by just how much I can squeeze in every time. The zipped compartment at the bottom is a game-changer for storing shoes or makeup bags away from your clothes, to prevent any mishaps in transit. I took three pairs of shoes, plus three outfits and a spare handbag, along with all other bits and pieces, on a recent trip to Paris, all inside this one bag. I love how chic it is too, and appreciate that there are plenty of matching items in the range.” Charley Ward, commerce writer
Can you ever really beat Louis Vuitton for ultimate luxury and timeless style? No, not really. So, we had to put them on our list of best luggage brands of . There’s no way around it, these suitcases come with wheels, ultra-light canvas, leather trims and eye-watering price tags, but that’s to be expected. In return, you’ll receive an exquisitely crafted heirloom case, be it a super-sized travel trunk, a rolling suitcase or a holdall bag. This is an investment for life – and probably lives beyond your life. Buy it today, and your great-grandchild will thank you.
"This is lovely inside and out. From the shiny gold clasps that snap open to the white leather trims to the striped inner that’s unveiled inside, this case is unlike any other I’ve used. It has a trunk-style opening, which you may or may not like, but I find that it makes it easier to pack in as many clothes as possible. Plus, when the case is not in use, it can be used as a blanket box in my living room. On the plus side, this case has four spinner wheels, unlike the brand’s carry-ons, which makes it easier to manoeuvre although it’s still a little heavier than its polycarbonate competitors. The extras are thoughtful and considered, comprising a hanging organiser with a door hook, a cool striped cover to protect the outer from scuffs in the hold (most brands make you pay additionally for this) and a little jewellery pouch. If you’re looking for a stylish case that’ll stand out on the carousel, this is the one to buy. Charley Ward, commerce writer, on the Steamline Entrepreneur spinner
If you’re treating yourself to new luggage in , the best choice always comes down to your unique needs. But of course, the first thing to consider is whether it is for checked-in luggage or carry-on.
For check-in suitcases: If you’re checking your bag in, it’s a good idea to choose a hard shell suitcase or trunk. Although we do recognise these are usually the more expensive option, it’s the best way to ensure your bag and belongings aren’t damaged during travel. As an added bonus, they’re often easier to clean than soft-sided luggage.
For carry-on suitcases: For maximum packing space, choose a soft-sided suitcase. While rigid hard shell luggage options can be very roomy, if you’re trying to stick within size restrictions, you tend to be able to fit more into soft carry-on bags. Equally, if you're travelling with just an under-seat cabin bag, a soft weekender or backpack is a better option. A hard side case designed to be a cabin bag can work if you’re planning on placing it in the overhead locker once on board your flight. If you’re making an investment, hard-shell carry-on cases are the better choice as they are more robust and hardwearing. We love hard shell cases that come with an external pocket, like the best-selling Icon Stripe cabin case with pocket, so you can use it as your sole travel bag if needed.
Again, the size of the bag you need depends on a multitude of personal factors – how long are you travelling for? What sort of clothes are you packing? How many pairs of shoes will you need? And so on. Fortunately, if you’ve found a bag you love on this list, most luggage brands offer suitcases in carry-on, medium and large sizes. So, you can take your pick (or buy one of each!). If you’re checking your luggage in and know you need as much packing room as possible, trunk-style and extra-large suitcases are the best way to go.
For most travellers, unless you’re in the habit of setting off on month-long jaunts, a set of three – carry-on, medium and large – should be all you need for the majority of trips. Most brands’ offerings slot inside each other for neat storage. Remember you have an under-seat bag allowance, too, for all your in-flight necessities.
For trips of up to three days, you shouldn’t need more than a carry-on suitcase, especially if you’ve chosen one with nifty storage solutions. See our full guide to the best carry-on luggage for more recommendations.
For holidays of up to a week, look for a medium suitcase with a capacity of 50 to 120 litres. This size will strike a balance between being large enough to house all you need without being unnecessarily unwieldy or heavy. The exception would be if you’re bringing a lot of specialist kit, such as diving or ski gear or bulky cameras, for example. In those instances, switch out your regular checked bag for a larger suitcase.
Two week-plus getaways will require a large check-in case, especially if you’re partial to bringing back souvenirs. Large suitcases and trunks can have a capacity of around 55 to 140 litres, which should give you plenty of room., Packing cubes, or even vacuum bags, are game-changers for maximising the space you have. Our editor, Charley Ward, travelled to Iceland for three months during winter, calling for lots of bulky jumpers and coats, but using vacuum bags meant she only needed one bag! Use smart packing hacks like this, and you’ll be surprised at what you can get packed into just one suitcase.
Once you let your bag go, you’re putting all your faith into hoping nothing will happen to it. So, having your belongings secured in a case fastened with a TSA-approved lock will give you that extra peace of mind. Every single one of our top picks in our best luggage guide has TSA-approved locks, which ensure that security can open your case without damaging it should it be necessary. Choosing a case with a built-in TSA lock means you don't need an additional bulky padlock either, so your suitcase remains looking chic and as lightweight as possible.
This will depend entirely on your own budget and tastes. However, we’ve found that the best luggage brands’ prices tend to start from around £200 for cabin cases, £300 for medium and £400 upwards for large suitcases. You can make savings by buying a luggage set – Antler offers a 15 per cent discount on sets, and you can save up to £80 in July and £150 in Monos when you buy three, for example. We’ve also found some brands that offer great-value luggage options – Nere has medium check-in cases for under £150, as does American Tourister.