The Best Luggage of 2024
Having the right luggage can make or break your travel experience, resulting in either a hassle-free experience or a stressful one. There are many options to choose from, including small carry-on bags for easy transportation and large, sturdy suitcases for all the essentials. However, the type of luggage you decide on will likely be determined by the type of trip you end up taking. After all, an adventurous, expedition-style trip may require quite different luggage than a luxury cruise or a quick weekend getaway would.
When finding the right luggage for your needs, there are several factors to consider, including size, style, and material. To help you come to a sound decision, we researched dozens of different suitcases, tote bags, duffels, and more across a variety of brands, styles, and price points. We also spoke to Hedva Wiener, travel agent with Aladdin Travel Services, for expert tips to help you pinpoint the perfect luggage to take along to your next destination.
Best Hard-Sided Suitcases
Hard suitcases are a staple for many travelers, thanks to sturdy sides that provide extra protection for your belongings. Wiener notes that they can, however, be a little heavier than other types, and their lack of flexibility means there’s little room for error when it comes to carry-on sizing. That’s why we love the Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner, which is surprisingly lightweight yet strong enough to withstand jostling. Quince’s 21-Inch Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase is another extra-secure choice with a TSA-approved combination lock.
For overpackers eager to throw in yet again another pair of shoes, Away’s The Bigger Carry-On is designed to help you make the most of your suitcase space. Equipped with a mesh laundry bag, zippered compartments, and secure compression belt, the bag boasts impressive capacity and organization. If you’re not willing to splurge, don’t worry—the American Tourister Air Move Carry-On Spinner proves you don’t need to sacrifice quality for price. The suitcase features a height-adjustable handle, dual spinner wheels allow for comfortable navigation, and the interior includes two packing compartments, a compression belt, and a lining made from recycled materials.
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Best Soft-Sided Suitcases
Soft-sided luggage is usually made from one of several types of nylon and is a favorite of travelers for whom weight, space, and flexibility are priorities. Because of their malleable siding, these bags are easier to compress into small spaces, whether it be the overhead bin of a plane or a closet shelf at home. On the other hand, Wiener says a soft fabric exterior is more vulnerable to damage and less durable than hard-sided luggage, as it may not provide as much shock absorption.
That said, certain soft suitcases are higher quality than others, with one example being the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On Spinner. Crafted from a high-quality, ballistic nylon material, the luxurious bag features corner guards, 360-degree wheels, and a well-organized design that makes packing and unpacking a breeze.
When embarking on a weekend getaway or overnight trip, you’ll need a suitcase that isn’t too cumbersome. True to its name, the Travel Pro Maxlite 5 Compact Carry-On Spinner is one of the lighter and more compact options on our list. Weighing just over 5 pounds, it offers a surprising amount of packing space and includes a zippered expander that provides up to 2 inches of extra room.
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