How Do You Travel?
For airplane travel, familiarize yourself with the luggage rules of the airlines you plan to fly on. If you go on road trips, look for bags that are pliable enough to maximize your trunk space. On cruise ships, because baggage is stacked in the boat's belly before departure, we've found that flat, rigid luggage is best. A travel backpack with a rigid back can be useful if you'll need your hands free while walking, and don't mind an informal look.
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How Will You Store Your Luggage?
Once the luggage gets home, where will you put it? Hard-sided bags are the most unforgiving; you can't squeeze them into a storage space. Soft-sided, structured bags have a little forgiveness on the front and back. If you have no place to store a stand-up suitcase, you may want to limit yourself to duffels.
What Size Luggage Do You Need?
This will depend mainly on the length of your trip and, if you're flying, airline luggage restrictions. It also depends on what you'll need while you're away. If you travel for business, you'll need enough room for business attire; for vacations, you'll have more leeway on what to bring.
Carry-On Luggage
Carry-on bags are convenient for air travel because they typically don't have to be checked when you fly. This type of luggage must fit either under a seat or in the overhead compartment. For domestic flights on major carriers, the standard size for carry-on bags is 22x14x9 inches (height x width x depth). Depending on the airline, there may be an inch or so leeway in those dimensions. For international flights (originating or ending outside the U.S.), the size limit is generally smaller than for domestic flights.
Measure the height of your luggage from the floor to the top of the handle in its lowered position. (If your luggage has wheels, they count toward the overall height.) Depth is measured from front to back (including the handle in the back), and width from side to side.
If you fly on different carriers, you'll have to decide whether you want to buy several carry-on bags to conform to the various size restrictions or use one carry-on that meets the most restrictive rules. But even rule-abiding luggage isn't a guarantee that your bags won't be relegated to the plane's cargo hold, because the flight crew can impose further restrictions, even after boarding has begun.
Keep in mind that if you carry spare lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries or power banks and chargers for your electronic devices, federal airline safety rules require you to keep them in your carry-on. Just be sure to place them in their original packaging, or cover their contacts with nonmetallic tape, to prevent short circuits. Check the Federal Aviation Administration's rules for more info.
CR's rigorous tests of popular hard-shell carry-on luggage reveal that a high-priced suitcase might not always be the best choice.
Personal Item Bag
A personal item bag has to fit underneath the seat in front of you on a plane. This category includes briefcases, tote bags, camera bags, laptop bags, and small backpacks. But you can get the most out of your allowed personal item if you buy a bag specifically designed for this purpose.
Often these bags contain compartments for your passport, , pen, and wallet, as well as a padded section for a laptop and a main section for clothes and overnight essentials. Many of these underseat bags can serve you well for a one- to two-day trip. There is no standard size for these bags. For U.S. domestic flights, the typical measurement is 18x14x8 inches; some airlines don't specify dimensions but say the bag must fit under your seat. Small weekender bags fit the bill here, as do some travel backpacks.
Whether a personal item fits under the seat can vary even within the same aircraft. Aisle seats are notorious for having the least room underneath. Before you shop, review the under-the-seat specifications for various airlines. You can also check the aircraft's guidelines for onboard pet carriers'a reasonable proxy for underseat clearance.
Checked Luggage
Any suitcase larger than carry-on size must be checked. The most common size options are 24 to 30 inches in height. You can find suitcases as tall as 36 inches, but check with your carrier for size limits. There's usually a weight limit, with extra fees applied for excess weight per bag.
Checked-bag fees are common on major airlines' domestic flights. They can run $30 for one bag, $40 for a second, and $150 for a third. (United Airlines, for example, charges $35 and $45 for the first and second bag, respectively, but shaves off $5 per bag if the fees are prepaid.) Budget airlines such as Allegiant, Frontier, and Spirit also charge for carry-ons, with prices ranging from $25 to $100. You may be charged more if you wait to pay at the airport. Southwest is unique in allowing two free checked bags.
What you pay in checked-bag fees also may depend on your class of service. American Airlines, for instance, charges $75 for each bag checked by passengers using Basic Economy fares on many international flights. But it charges nothing for passengers flying the next class up, Main Cabin.
Aside from paying a higher fare, you may be able to avoid bag fees by purchasing your ticket with the airline's branded credit card. Or if you often fly on one airline, see whether it offers an annual subscription plan for checked bags.
Soft-sided luggage continues to dominate the market, but hard-shell is quickly gaining popularity because of newer lightweight materials.
Hard-Shell Luggage
Today's hard-shell, or hard-sided, luggage is often made of high-tech plastics, such as polyethylene, ABS, and polycarbonate, which are lightweight and durable. ABS is lighter, but polycarbonate is more durable. The most durable, but also the heaviest, is aluminum. Hard-shell luggage often features a 50/50-split opening, allowing you to pack two sides equally and stabilize the contents with an X-strap, a middle divider, or both. A few hard-shell carry-ons recently tested by Consumer Reports expand in the middle with zippers and heavy fabric. Note: Because hard-shell bags close like a clamshell, you need double the surface space to open these. Most hard-sides are built this way, but some on the market have a top-lid opening.
Pros: These are best for protecting breakable contents; those with integrated locks also offer better security. Hard-shell luggage stacks easily, making it ideal for cruise ships, because luggage is typically stacked in the belly of the boat before departure. If you tend to overpack, a hard-shell piece will rein you in. There's no chance of overstuffing it'though if you need added room, an expandable model is useful.
Cons: These can scuff and scratch easily. Also, few hard-shell suitcases have outside pockets. A hard-shell carry-on that has been expanded might not fit in an airline's carry-on sizer, or in the plane's overhead bin.
Soft-Sided Luggage
Soft-sided luggage is made of fabrics that yield, usually a woven nylon fabric, such as Cordura or ballistic nylon. Ballistic is the shinier of the two and over time can abrade, but abrasions will not compromise the strength of the fabric. Cordura is a little softer and abrasion-resistant, and preferable for an over-the-shoulder bag. If you consider a suitcase made of ripstop nylon, or 'parachute material,' make sure that it is a high-denier fabric, which means it's more durable.
Pros: These suitcases are usually lighter in weight than hard-shell suitcases, and often are expandable. They can flex and compress to conform to tight spaces, such as a plane's overhead bin'sometimes even when expanded. This flexibility also enables you to squeeze in an extra outfit. These could also be easier to pack into a car trunk and store at home.
Cons: They're not as protective as hard-shell suitcases, and they're vulnerable to ripping.
Wheeled suitcases make up at least two-thirds of all luggage sales today. If you plan on rolling your own luggage, your first decision is whether to buy a two-wheeler or a four-wheeler.
Two-Wheel Luggage
Suitcases with two wheels, also called rollers, utilize the same type of wheels found on in-line skates'they roll only forward and backward, not side to side. The suitcase rolls behind you as you pull it from the extending handle.
Pros: Wheels are recessed, which protects them from snapping off during rough handling. For city trips, two-wheelers are better than four-wheelers for clearing curbs and rolling on uneven surfaces, such as sidewalks or cobblestones.
Cons: Some travelers complain that the dragging position causes shoulder, wrist, or back pain. Also, it can be cumbersome to drag a two-wheeler in a crowded space because you need clearance between yourself and the bag. Plus, the recessed wheels take up valuable space in the bag's interior packing area.
Four-Wheel Luggage
Also called spinners, four-wheeled bags have wheels that each swivel 360 degrees. You can push them, pull them, wheel them alongside yourself, and turn them in any direction.
Pros: Spinners are easier to navigate in tight spaces. A heavy or large suitcase may also be easier to manage with four wheels because, unlike two-wheelers, you don't have to drag the suitcase. Ergonomically, the spinner is a better choice than the roller because it does not put stress on your shoulder.
Cons: Wheels are externally mounted, not recessed, so they are vulnerable to snapping off. (Wheels attached with screws are more secure than those with rivets, according to experts.) Carry-ons with spinner wheels may have less room inside than those with recessed wheels because the maximum allowable dimensions include the wheels. A spinner won't remain stationary on an incline; you have to hold on to it or lay it on its side.
No-Wheel Luggage
You might want to forgo wheels under these circumstances:
' To ensure the maximum possible interior volume for your luggage. Wheels and handles eat into the space of a bag.
' You expect to take your bag on bumpy, rough, sandy, or icy surfaces, where wheels are difficult to manage.
' You won't have to ever handle your own luggage'for instance, on a luxury tour.
If you shop at a walk-in store, use the following tips to make sure a piece of luggage is right for you. If you order online, carefully read the description and warranty information on the website, and as soon as you receive the item, run it through these same tests.
Break Out the Tape Measure
Ignore tags, labels, or promotions that proclaim 'official carry-on luggage.' Although for domestic flights on major carriers, your carry-on can't be larger than 22x14x9 inches, there's no regulation that otherwise dictates carry-on size'airlines impose their own restrictions, and the limits can vary among airlines and even among aircraft. Know the rules of the airlines you plan to fly. Measure the dimensions yourself and make sure the measurements account for all parts, including outer pouches, wheels, and handles.
Hold That Handle
Check the wrist angle and the feel of the grip on the suitcase's handle. For maximum durability, the handle should have little to no wiggling or rattling as you pull the bag. Also, check for smooth movement as you pull it up and retract it.
Wheel It Around
The suitcase's wheels should roll smoothly and stay in place. Gently jiggle the wheels with your hands to make sure they are firmly attached.
Check the Interior Capacity
The outside measurements of the suitcase are important, but don't forget to consider how roomy the inside is. This can be difficult to do because many manufacturers don't disclose the suitcase's interior volume. (Consumer Reports does, in our hard-shell carry-on ratings.) Look for these features that maximize interior space.
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' Squared edges: Curved corners cut space.
' Integrated outer compartments: Outside zip compartments should be on the same geometric plane as the main part of the bag'protrusions waste space. Keep in mind, though, that stuffed outer compartments may mean less space inside the bag.
' No wheels or handles: If you really need to make the most of every interior inch, forgo wheels and handles. They reduce total packable space.
Check the Warranty and Return Policy
If you want a bag for the long haul, get the one with the best manufacturer's warranty. A lifetime warranty to repair or replace the bag is, of course, the best option. Check the warranty for specific requirements, such as exclusions for when an airline damages your suitcase. Briggs & Riley, for example, has a generous guarantee. It'll repair all functional (not cosmetic) aspects of its bags for each bag's lifetime, even if you no longer have your receipt and didn't register your luggage with the company. Away, with a limited lifetime warranty (there are exclusions), lets you "gently test" its bags for up to 100 days, and then return them, unused, for your money back.
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 City, 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.'
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.'
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.
Calpak's Luka duffel is one of its most popular pieces of luggage, previously racking up a 44,000-deep waiting list. The brand launched the best-selling Luka duffel in a larger version'overpackers, this one's for you. While it's a little too big to fit under an airplane seat as a personal item, it's a perfect size for trips longer than two days (think extended weekends or shorter vacations). It's made of the same soft, puffer-like material as the original version and features the same long adjustable strap, top carry handle, and hidden shoe compartment. Its got rave reviews from associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny: 'Made of water-resistant material, this duffel is so soft and lightweight. No matter how much I stuff in this thing, it's not a pain to carry'the ultra-soft, long carry handles don't hurt my shoulders, and the adjustable longer strap is comfortable, too. This duffel has nine pockets, with a shoe compartment at the bottom where I keep a pair of sneakers or slippers, a mesh pocket, a side pocket for my water bottle, and plenty of smaller side pockets inside where I store small items like socks and toiletries. There's also a trolley sleeve that fits nicely on my carry-on, which is a real lifesaver while walking through the airport.'
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.
This weekender was Béis's first product, and a positive indicator of where the luggage and travel accessory brand was headed. It is thoughtfully designed, from the overall look to the smart features: A trolley sleeve on the bag has a zipper on the bottom, so you can use it as an exterior pocket when you're not traveling with a suitcase, or unzip it to secure the weekender to your luggage when needed. A second exterior pocket on the opposite side of the bag is large enough for a and other small essentials. It was recommended by senior commerce editor Madison Flager, who especially loves the bag's separate bottom compartment, which can be used to keep shoes or dirty or wet clothes separate.
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.
Sometimes, you just want a trusty classic, and Travelpro, created by a former commercial airline pilot, always delivers. This expandable soft-sided bag has a telescopic handle, spinner wheels for easy gliding, and an external USB port for charging devices on the go, plus two front zip pockets to keep both important items and odds and ends close. Impressively, of its nearly 3,000 Amazon reviews, 85 percent are five-star.
There's an obvious con to Away luggage'the popularity of the brand may have you chasing a stranger through baggage claim who walked away with your generic black roller, thinking it was their own'and yet, we still keep coming back to them. With 360-degree spinner wheels, the Carry-On Flex glides smoothly across almost any surface and its light yet durable shell is perfect for keeping your items safe. But the best part about the Flex, according to global associate director of audience development Lara Kramer, is the zipper expansion, which gives you an additional 2.25-inches of packing space when needed. 'With the flex in use, packing for my weeklong vacation to London was a total breeze,' she says. Pick a unique color or add your favorite sticker to the outer hard shell to help your bag stand out.
While smaller than an average carry-on, garment bags really prove their worth on business trips and wedding travel. 'Yes, this bag glides seamlessly through airports and is incredibly durable thanks to its nylon fabric with Duraguard coating, but the lay-flat garment bag design is the real gem of this carry-on,' global associate director of audience development Lara Kramer says. 'It holds way more than you think'and arriving with all of your dresses and shirts wrinkle-free is a huge game changer.'
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).
Tested by destinations editor Shannon McMahon, who prefers to travel with expandable hard-sided spinners, this one stands out for 'its super roomy packing capacity and its smooth-rolling wheels.' Its 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 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.
This hard-sided 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 holy grail of luggage compliments? 'I actually look forward to packing this thing,' says executive editor Erin Florio. 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 a suitcase like this: 'The inner compartments make it really easy to organize all your items, from shoes to laundry to toiletries, which helps you fit in more. This small but mighty rollaboard's design helped me put everything in a proper spot. It made me a better packer by design.' The exterior pocket adds even more room, and can fit a laptop, hardcover books, and magazines.
Arlo Skye's zipper-front suitcase goes on nearly every trip with senior editor Megan Spurrell, and it has never let her down: '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. Crucially, this bag looks sleek, but is totally durable. I've checked it on a few occasions, and it always survives being chucked onto the baggage carousel with little to no evidence of the journey.'
Associate social media manager Kayla Brock recommends this expandable roller for three to four day trips. 'The first thing I loved about this luggage was the combination lock on the outside of the case. Whenever I traveled, I would place a small lock on my carry-on and keep the key on me, constantly paranoid that I was going to lose it. Now, I don't have to worry about that.' Brock is also a fan of the mesh zip compartment and zip-lock compartments inside, which make organizing clothes, accessories, and toiletries simple. 'Although it originally looks like my clothes wouldn't fit (I'm guilty of overpacking), the suitcase closed with ease.'
The best part of this weekender: the clamshell opening, which allows the bag to lie completely flat for easy packing. With a roomy 50-liter capacity and an internal padded pocket that fits a 16" laptop, you've got a good amount of space in here for an overnight stay or a two-night trip. Contributor Juliet Izon tested out this bag when we were on the hunt for the best weekenders in , and was able to pack 'everything I needed for a four-day trip to Asheville, North Carolina, including all the outfit changes I wanted for a weekend in the unpredictable weather of the mountains.' Its smart design, sleek look, and spacious compartments make it deserving of a spot on our list this year, too.
Articles director Lale Arikoglu has used this duffel on safari in Kenya and a hiking trip through Chilean Patagonia. She likes that she's able to pack a lot in but still wear it as a backpack thanks to adjustable straps. 'It's perfect for outdoorsy itineraries, and the ideal size for small plane requirements, which I had to navigate on both trips. Plus, it's soft-sided, which makes it easy to squeeze into the overhead bin on a crowded flight, and folds up into nothing when not in use.'
Take Off Luggage is for the traveler who is team carry-on, but is also tired of airlines charging them to bring a suitcase in the cabin. At first glance, TOL looks like the average hardshell carry-on. Measuring 20" x 14" x 8", a surprising amount of clothing can fit in this little suitcase'I've used it for a four-day trip'but it also has a secret: the 360-degree spinner wheels come off with the simple click of two buttons. This trick decreases the luggage height by two inches, allowing it to fit under most airplane seats and qualify it as a personal item, even by the strictest budget airline standards. That means you can save money and still move through the airport with ease. 'Jessica Poitevien, contributor
'For the first time ever as an overpacker, I had room to spare,' says associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny, who traveled with the Béis 26' Check-In Roller on a nine-day trip to Italy this summer. A large part of that spaciousness comes from the hard-sided suitcase's many compartments and its ability to expand an additional two inches to accommodate more volume. On one side, a U-zip flap and its two zip pockets keep contents securely packed away; the opposite side uses a detachable compression flap with another U-zip pocket and four-point compression straps to provide security and stability. There are also two more pouches'for small valuables and for dirty or wet clothing'which Kenny likens to having 'built-in packing cubes.' While Béis says the suitcase can hold up to 99 pounds, it also features a weight limit indicator to ensure you don't go over any weight limit specifications when flying.
Away has become known for its minimal yet functional luggage; it's a reliable go-to for light, spacious suitcases that get the job done. Recently, the brand released upgraded versions of several of its classic bags, including The Medium, which destinations editorial assistant Charlie Hobbs describes as a kind of bag made for 'young people on the go.' After bringing The Medium on a trip to Rhode Island and Martha's Vineyard, he confirmed it held enough clothes for a full two weeks (without doing laundry), and its four 360-degree wheels ensure the luggage is easily maneuverable. The suitcase's interior features three mesh pockets as well as a small hanging pocket, so you'll be able to maintain a certain level of organization'even without packing cubes. The only downside of The Medium is the highly scuffable polycarbonate hardshell. Frequent travel, particularly air travel, may result in a less-than-flawless look.
Launched last year by a mother-daughter duo, Royce & Rocket wants to change the way you unpack. 'The most important feature of this suitcase is the built-in shelves'they fold down flat when not in use and can be snapped into place using built-in straps when you're ready to unpack in place,' says editorial operations manger Taylor Eisenhauer, who tested out the suitcase this fall. The second shelf is wider, and best suited for folded sweaters and pants, Eisenhauer says, while the top shelf is ideal for toiletries or smaller accessories, like jewelry or hats. 'It's the most unique piece of luggage I've encountered'my friends were blown away by the shelving system,' she says. 'I tend to lean toward carry-on bags because they're not as bulky and are usually better designed, but this piece makes me feel like I don't have to sacrifice form or function in order to pack everything I want on a trip.'
The first thing you'll notice about the Ambeur Large Luggage from Calpak is its size: The checked bag can carry up to 112 liters. 'An individual traveler could easily get away with packing a week's worth of clothes and accessories, possibly even two travelers with the right packing skills,' says Lara Kramer, global director of audience development, social, and analytics, who also shared that the suitcase is expandable by two inches, 'ensuring you can bring home those extra souvenirs.' Overpackers'or those packing for multiple travelers'will appreciate the spacious main compartments, as well as the three additional zipper compartments that Kramer says are 'perfect for packing your smaller or more delicate items.' The Ambeur Large Luggage is a great option if you're headed abroad for an extended period of time, or if you're traveling as a family.
Some trips result in more luggage wear and tear than others'international flights, multiple layovers, and cross-country moves, to name a few. If you're expecting particularly grueling journeys over the next couple of years, invest in the Herschel Heritage Hardshell Medium Luggage. Two European adventures later, the impact-resistant suitcase has 'held up very well' for Kenny: Scuffs are minimal, and there were no issues with the zippers or locks. Typically, two wheels are better for navigating cobblestones and less-than-even surfaces, but she noticed that the suitcase's four inset Hinomoto wheels 'rolled easily and quietly' through both the airport and the bumpy streets of Florence.
Style meets function in the 70L, four-wheeled Monos Check-in Medium, which comes in seven standard colors and as well as a selection of limited edition patterns and shades. The Aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shell pairs with the TSA'approved lock for ultimate security, and global digital director Arati Menon had no complaints about the storage space: 'One half of the suitcase comes with compression straps and a covered panel with pockets'I use this section for my clothes, and put my shoes into the two pockets. The other section is covered, keeping any other shoes, toiletries, and other sundry items protected and tucked in.' There's also the added bonus of a removable laundry bag, two shoe bags, and a vegan leather luggage tag. If you're hunting for a reliable, does-it-all suitcase, this is the one. In Menon's words, 'it feels light, looks great, glides like a dream, and is super functional to boot.'
If you're interested in a trunk, it means one thing: You're not planning on traveling light. Hobbs was impressed with the Peugeot Voyages 29" Trunk Wheeled Trunk's 'abundant space,' which he says can hold 'a month's worth of clothing, easily.' When empty, the trunk'including its impact-resistant shell, aluminum frame, two TSA'approved combination locks, and four spinner wheels'weighs 12.3 pounds. Given its size, 50 pounds will come sooner than you think, especially since the two interior compartments (complete with tie straps and zip mesh pockets) are extra roomy. That said, the Peugeot Voyages trunk is great for travelers who have more forgiving luggage weight restrictions, those who are able to haul a heavier suitcase, or those traveling by car.
Away's biggest suitcase has a capacity of almost 100 liters, making it among the largest on this list. Made of the brand's classic polycarbonate shell, it comes in nearly a dozen shades, and has smooth spinner wheels, interior compression straps, and matching carry-on sizes that nest into this bag for easy storage. Like many bags of this material, it scuffs fairly easily, but can be wiped clean with a Magic Eraser or microfiber towel.
For an eye-catching, fashionable piece of luggage, you can't go wrong with Steamline's vintage-inspired design. The Diplomat is the brand's largest four-wheel trunk. It has gold hardware and tan leather straps to buckle it closed, as well as more secure latches and TSA-approved locks. Inside, there's more room than you'd expect (though not a ton of compartments). To protect the beautiful design, this bag comes with a ripstop protective sleeve for use in transit.
Tested while we were on the hunt for the best hard-shell luggage, Paravel's Aviator Grand suitcase passed with flying colors. It's a solid, elegantly sleek, eco-friendly suitcase that's great for extended travel. Inside, it's spacious if minimalistic, with two open sides'you'll want to use packing cubes for added organization, though there are two zippered compartments on either side (one of those acts as a compression flap to secure the items underneath). We were able to pack for 10 to 14 days easily with this suitcase.
Béis's collapsible luggage gives you plenty of room'in fact, this checked bag is the largest one on the list. Tested by senior commerce editor Madison Flager, it opens up like a clamshell, with two zippered compartments on one side; the water-resistant one is great for storing damp swimsuits or sweaty workout clothes on your return home. Other smart features include the U-shaped front zipper, which allows you to access one entire side of the suitcase without fully unzipping it, and a weight indicator on the handle that turns red when the bag weighs more than 50 pounds (you'll definitely want to use it'this bag is easy to overfill).
At $180, the Quince 24' Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase comes in on the more affordable end of the luggage price spectrum. However, space isn't sacrificed for cost: 'The interiors would hold 10 outfits quite easily in any season, and even more in the summer, when clothing tends to be less bulky,' says Menon. She credits this quality to the compression system on one side of the suitcase 'which presses down on your clothes and magically produces extra room just when you think you're all out of it.' If you're familiar with more expensive suitcases, you may notice that the polycarbonate shell is relatively lightweight; before any packing occurs, the bag only weighs 8.8 pounds. Considering the price, packing capabilities, and flimsier shell of the Quince checked bag, it makes the most sense for travelers who prefer to travel with a carry-on, but still want to have a large suitcase on hand.
Senior features editor Rebecca Misner has had this Rimowa bag for a few years, and praises its size and overall quality: 'I live and die by my Rimowa,' she says. 'It's hands down the best suitcase I've ever used. As someone who has purchased many hard-shell rollers over the years, only to eventually replace them after wheel and handle issues (and a surprising number of punctured corners), the price is worth it for the overall quality. Rollability and ease of raising and lowering the handle are strong. It has some flex and very practical adjustable interior dividers; plus, it holds a ton'perfect for any trip longer than a weekend.'
Senior commerce editor Madison Flager is a fan of this Arlo Skye bag, which is a perfect suitcase to pair with Arlo's Zipper Carry-On if you're short on storage space (the carry-on nests inside the larger bag when it's empty). Inside, there's a large zippered compartment that's a great size for hats, bathing suits, or slim purses; the other side has two smaller zippered pockets to hold undergarments or socks. And while it's gotten a few scuffs here and there, there haven't been any nicks that a Magic Eraser couldn't undo.
This large, expandable spinner from Briggs & Riley gives you that much-needed extra room hard shell bags sometimes lack: the brand's unique expansion-compression system increases packing capacity by 17 percent (a good two inches of extra space). This suitcase also has a less pronounced dip on the bottom of the bag, as the handle sits on the exterior of the case, minimizing wrinkles in clothes packed. Another thoughtful touch: the front of the bag curves in to avoid dents or scratches. This is a solid, functional, and well-designed bag with a streamlined look we love.
Former Traveler editor Meredith Carey used this suitcase when she traveled for a month and had to pack for three weddings with three distinctly different climates in mind. 'Roam's Large Check-In worked perfectly, mainly because its capacity (89 liters, unexpanded), relatively lightweight (10.6 pounds), and thin, flexible polycarbonate shell meant I could pack it to the brim without worrying about putting any baggage handler's back out.' Inside, the compression system'two free-floating compression boards, each with a large mesh pocket'means that you can compress both sides down. The bag handled travel well, thanks to its sturdy telescopic handle and 360-degree, ball-bearing wheels'plus the grab handles on the top and side made it easy to pull off the carousel. Plus, it's easy to spot at baggage claim since the brand's color customization means it's highly unlikely anyone has a matching suitcase.
Ideal for people with very little storage'say, an apartment in New York with limited closet space'the Rollink is very light when empty and collapses down to around two inches. It sounds too good to be true, but former Condé Nast editor Elaheh Nozari put it to the test: 'The interior has polycarbonate fabric-lined walls that fold down for storing but stand up to expand the suitcase. These were very sturdy and keep the bag from feeling flimsy'when they're in use it's hard to tell that the suitcase is collapsible.' Nozari was able to fit about a week's worth of clothes inside, and notes the biggest downside is the lack of pockets or interior compartments. Also worth noting: the lack of 360 spinner wheels. 'The wheels were fine and the bag is very easy to roll when full, but I prefer a suitcase with spinner wheels.' She did find it very easy to transport, and was pleasantly surprised by how nice it looked: 'It has a simple and sleek look.'
Tested by senior editor Megan Spurrell, this bag rivals pricier options on this list, and will blend in with them, too: 'This July number is light, easy to lift, and a spacious interior means I can fit quite a bit inside,' Spurrell says. 'It seamlessly pairs with two carry-ons I have, too'both navy blue, from Paravel and Arlo Skye'for a stylish set when I'm traveling heavy on a longer trip.' She notes that the wheels glide smoothly, particularly for a larger bag, and the solid exterior instills hope that it'll be able to take a number of rough unloadings without any issues. Some features, like the handles spanning over 20 different heights, feel nonessential, and the interior material, while spill-resistant, are stiffer and less luxe than pricier picks. The odor-resistant laundry bag and compression pad are welcome perks, though.
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