Whether you’re the sort of person who jets off to a new destination every other week or goes on vacation once a year, having the best luggage is a critical factor in having a stress-free trip. The last thing you need is for your suitcase to break when you get to the airport. We’ve reviewed the top travel luggage brands hot on the market to bring you our top 5 picks for adults and kids. Read on.
How We Tested and Compared These Brands
When reviewing popular travel bag brands, we were interested in how functional they were. They needed ample space to fit everything needed for a short- to medium-term vacation. We favored brands that were backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
They needed to be made of high-quality, durable materials and lightweight to conform to airline weight restrictions.
They also needed to look good. After all, who wants to haul ugly-looking luggage through an airport?
Any extras they came with, such as a USB charging port or carry-on that could slip neatly onto the suitcase handle, were a bonus.
Best Luggage Overall: Rockland Luggage Set
Overview:
- Size: 2-piece set (14 in., and 19 in. upright)
- Weight: 1 lb. and 6 lbs.
- Material: Heavy-duty polyester
- Wheels: In-line skate
- Expandable: Yes
What We Like About It
Rockland has built a solid reputation for quality luggage when it comes to bags and suitcases. Its deluxe two-piece luggage sets ooze sophistication and reliability and is a must-have for any traveler on the go.
The set includes an upright suitcase, expandable by up to two inches, and an exquisite carry-on tote to bring on the flight with you. It has sturdy locks and keys to ensure no prying hands get into your belongings.
The bag’s interior is fully lined with a waterproof garment bag enclosure, while the exterior features an ergonomic, padded, telescopic handle, making it easy to lag your luggage around. The large zipper-secured exterior pocket compartments at the front are a nice touch.
What We Don’t Like
While there is a lot to love about the Rockland luggage set, the only downside we found was the two in-line skate wheels. If you’re accustomed to the standard four-spinning wheels that most modern suitcases are equipped with, dragging the suitcase behind you as you move from point A to B might take some getting used to.
What Past Buyers Had to Say
One user noted that the larger suitcase tended to fall over when it wasn’t leaning against a wall. This instability could be attributed to the two in-line wheels. Other than that, most users are happy with their purchase.
Best Value Buy: Coolife Luggage Set
Overview:
- Size: 3-piece set (20 in., 24 in., and 28 in. upright)
- Weight: 6.3 lbs., 7.9 lbs., and 10 lbs.
- Material: ABS plastic
- Wheels: 360° multidirectional spinner
- Expandable: Yes (in size L)
What We Like About It
Coolife is a relatively new brand, delivering a fresh and vibrant outlook on luggage designs. The creative team’s innovative approach is evident in the three-piece Hardside Luggage set that’s as eye-catching as it is high-quality.
Its impact-resistant shell is made of ABS plastic and features molded corner guards to deflect and absorb shock during impact. The suitcase interior is fitted with compression straps and a skirted division to keep your belongings neatly packed during transit. The TSA lock is a nice touch as well.
What We Don’t Like
We were concerned by how flimsy the interior lining felt. It looks like it might fray after a few uses—we might be wrong. That said, its affordable price point more than makes up for it.
What Past Buyers Had to Say
One buyer noted that while the suitcase set was nothing short of stunning, the checked luggage did start to show a few signs of bruising after a few trips. The locks remained intact, though.
Best Lightweight Option: Kenneth Cole Luggage Set
Overview:
- Size: 3-piece set (20 in., 24 in., and 28 in. upright)
- Weight: 6.25 lbs., 8.4 lbs., and 9.6 lbs.
- Material: ABS plastic
- Wheels: 360° multidirectional spinner
- Expandable: No
What We Like About It
Kenneth Cole always delivers when it comes to suitcase sets. Its Reaction three-piece luggage sets embody everything you would want in a premium suitcase collection. They are made of high-quality ABS plastic with built-in corner guards for impact and shock resistance. They are also extremely lightweight to ensure you stay within your airline’s weight limits when packing for your trip.
We love everything about the suitcases’ roomy interiors. The tear-resistant lining and the zippered organizational pockets in the double-sided compartments make packing for your vacation a breeze. They’ll come in handy when you have a ton of things to bring with you.
Unlike most other luggage brands, Kenneth Cole Reaction suitcases are backed by a 10-year limited lifetime warranty against manufacturer and craftsmanship defects. If that’s not a stamp of approval for its high-quality standards, we don’t know what is.
What We Don’t Like
While its hardshell exterior feels pretty sturdy, we’re unsure how well it would hold up against unrelenting abuse from airline baggage handlers. We checked the largest suitcase on a recent flight and picked it up with a few tiny scratches on the surface when we got to our destination. There were no signs of structural damage on the checked bag, though, so that’s good.
What Past Buyers Had to Say
Most users are happy with its sturdiness, lightweight, and maneuverability. Even the heavy packers who went in with zero expectations were pleasantly surprised by its outstanding quality.
Best for Versatility: Travelers Club Luggage Set
Overview:
- Size: 4-piece set (5 in., 10 in., 22 in., and 28 in. upright)
- Weight: 0.5 lb., 1 lb., 7.2 lbs., and 8.4 lbs.
- Material: ABS plastic; 600D polyester
- Wheels: 360° multidirectional spinner
- Expandable: Yes
What We Like About It
Everything about Travelers Club’s four-piece Hardside luggage set screams premium. They exude elegance and look pretty expensive for the price. We got our hands on the rose gold variants, and they did not disappoint. While we thought they looked great in the pictures, we were not prepared for how much better they looked in person.
Aesthetics aside, this set is one of the most versatile pieces we’ve encountered. From the nifty sleeve at the back of the boarding tote that slips perfectly onto the upright luggage handle to the accessory pocket in the fully-lined suitcase interior—the folks at Travelers Club thought of everything.
What We Don’t Like
The suitcase’s expandable luggage allowance is about an inch to an inch and a half. Standard expandable options extend by at least two inches. Other than that, it’s a solid luggage option for frequent travelers.
What Past Buyers Had to Say
Most users loved how spacious and durable each suitcase was. The female buyers, in particular, liked the toiletry bag included in their purchase—perfect for organizing all your hair and beauty accessories.
Best Durable Option: Traveler’s Choice Luggage Set
Overview:
- Size: 2-piece set (22 in. and 26 in. upright)
- Weight: 6.3 lbs. and 8.24 lbs.
- Material: Polypropylene
- Wheels: 360° multidirectional spinner
- Expandable: Yes
What We Like About It
If you are looking for a durable luggage set that you won’t need to replace anytime soon, you cannot go wrong with Traveler’s Choice Pagosa suitcases. They are made of an indestructible propylene hard shell exterior that can withstand abuse from airline baggage handlers, making them ideal for checked luggage.
The set is a little pricier compared to other brands. However, the fact that they are built to last makes them worth the extra bucks. Each suitcase features spinner wheels for enhanced maneuverability, is scratch-, abrasion-, and water-resistant, and has a telescoping handle you can adjust to your height preference. They are also expandable by up to two inches, which is great when trying to zip up slightly overstuffed luggage.
What We Don’t Like
We would have liked it if the larger piece had been bigger. Most standard large units are 28 in. while the Pagosa measures only 26 in. We would also have liked to see a laundry bag included, which is pretty standard nowadays.
What Past Buyers Had to Say
Many users liked the suitcases’ hardshell covers and remarked how sturdy they felt. They also loved the USB charging ports built into the carry-on.
Best Kids Luggage Brands
Getting your kids their own luggage to carry is a great way to instill a sense of responsibility while they’re still impressionable. That said, they need luggage with more compact dimensions to use. Below are our top picks for the best kids’ luggage brands on the market right now.
Best Kids Luggage Overall: Stephen Joseph Suitcase
Overview:
- Size: 18 in. upright
- Material: Polyester
- Wheels: In-line skate
What We Like About It
The Stephen Joseph Rolling luggage for kids is a favorite for kids. It is super versatile, making it perfect for travel or school. It is available in several fun colors and designs and is fitted with two in-line skate wheels, an adjustable handle that locks at two different heights, and backpack straps. It has a spacious interior and zipper pockets, so there’s plenty of room for all their stuff.
What We Don’t Like
The base plate inside the bag could have been a little harder to keep it from tipping over when it’s not in motion. It would also have been nice to incorporate a strap to allow you to carry it if your kids get tired of lugging it around.
What Past Buyers Had to Say
Most parents were pretty happy with the purchase. The only issue they seemed dissatisfied with was its inability to stay upright. Other than that, most kids loved the roller bag.
Best Disney-Themed Suitcase for Kids: American Tourister
Overview:
- Size: 18 in. upright
- Material: Polyester
- Wheels: In-line skate
What We Like About It
American Tourister’s Disney Kids luggage collection is as colorful as it is functional. The softside luggage bag features two in-line wheels, a top-grab mono-tube pull-up handle, and a beautiful Frozen graphic printed onto the polyester exterior. The interior has two cross straps to keep your child’s belongings in place. The mesh pocket is a nice touch to keep the smaller stuff secure.
What We Don’t Like
The zippers feel a little flimsy, almost like they’ll break. They look like a cross between plastic and soft metal. You would have to handle them carefully.
What Past Buyers Had to Say
Most buyers thought the bag was great for their toddlers. However, many took issue with the zipper quality.
Best Multicolored Kids Suitcase: Travelers Club
Overview:
- Size: 3-piece set (19 in., 15 in., and 7.5 in. upright)
- Material: Polycarbonate and polyester
- Wheels: 360° multidirectional spinner
What We Like About It
When your preschooler asks for a suitcase, “but not the kind for babies…,” you get them this stunning set from Travelers Club. This collection is a miniature version of standard adult luggage set, with fun designs and smaller dimensions for smaller hands.
The set consists of a hard-side carry-on with multidirectional spinner wheels, a duffel bag with sturdy handles, and a nice little lunch bag. It also features a matching neck pillow and luggage tag. They’re all super adorable.
What We Don’t Like
The hard side case may not withstand the baggage handling process. Your child is better off taking it with them as a carry-on.
What Past Buyers Had to Say
For most buyers, this luggage set offered great value for the money. Their kids loved how “grown up” they felt, lugging the larger hard side case around.
Best Dinosaur-Themed Kids Suitcase: Rockland Jr.
Overview:
- Size: 16 in. upright
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Wheels: 360° multidirectional spinner
What We Like About It
Dinosaurs have fascinated kids for decades. It is no surprise that this super cute 16-inch carry-on is such a hit among young ones. It is made of lightweight polycarbonate and features a comfortable adjustable handle and multidirectional spinner wheels to make it easy for them to move around.
Our favorite thing has to be the rubber zippers it comes with. They are fully lined, making it easy for small hands to grip them.
What We Don’t Like
The luggage comes lined with a protective film which is a pain to remove. Some of it was stuck to the corners, which we hope will come off in time.
What Past Buyers Had to Say
Most buyers thought this small suitcase was the cutest thing ever. Many were amazed by how functional it was and were pleased to report that their kids loved it.
Best Versatile Suitcase for Kids: KiddieTotes
Overview:
- Size: 18 in. upright
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Wheels: In-line
What We Like About It
This KiddieTotes travel suitcase for kids is, by far, one of the most innovative luggage designs we’ve seen. It features a built-in, foldable standing deck to convert the suitcase into scooter luggage. The slip-proof covering on the deck and the soft-grip handle with tilt steering and safety lock ensure balance and protection as kids ride their luggage.
The light-up LED wheels are a nice touch. The hardshell exterior is lightweight and scratch resistant for enhanced durability.
What We Don’t Like
It is a little pricier than what we are accustomed to. Then again, given how much fun kids have while riding their scooter luggage, you don’t have to worry about carrying it for them, which is usually the case when they get tired. That’s worth a few extra bucks.
What Past Buyers Had to Say
Most buyers reported that the KiddieTotes scooter bag made traveling fun and convenient for their kids. It made them want to be responsible for their own suitcases without their parents worrying about their safety. It’s a win-win.
How to Choose the Best Luggage Brand: Buying Guide
All suitcases are not created equal. Below are some of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best luggage brand.
Material
Luggage comes in two main options: Soft sided and hard sided luggage. If you’re the sort of person who likes to cram their suitcase to full capacity when packing for a trip, you’re better off buying the soft side variety. Ensure the luggage brand you choose has a waterproof lining to keep your belongings dry.
On the other hand, if you’re carrying fragile items or things that can easily get damaged with impact, you’re better off going with hard-side cases. These are usually built to withstand rough handling by airline baggage personnel.
Ensure the brand you buy is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
Wheels
Wheeled luggage typically comes in two flavors: In-line two-wheelers and multidirectional four-wheelers. Two-wheeled luggage confines you to pulling your bag as you walk along. The plus side is they are often more stable than their four-wheeled counterparts and tend to stay put when not in motion. They also fare better on rough surfaces.
Four-wheeled luggage allows you to pull and push your suitcase in any direction. However, there’s always the chance it might roll away if it’s not set on even ground.
Weight
If you intend to go on a long-haul economy flight, every pound matters when it comes to luggage. For this reason, the weight of the bag itself is critical. Always go for a lightweight option when choosing the best luggage bag brand to get.
Handle
You want to pick a luggage set that comes with built-in telescopic handles. That way, they can adjust to your desired height and fold away out of sight when not in use. Remember, though, that double-pole handles take up more room which means less space for your belongings than their single-pole counterparts. However, they tend to offer more balance and stability, making them the ideal choice for frequent travelers.
Pockets
Softside suitcases usually have external pockets for extra storage. Hard shell luggage sets do not, so you need to consider how important pockets are when choosing a suitcase.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – the best luggage brands for 2023. Any suitcase we’ve reviewed in this guide would make an excellent purchase choice for your upcoming travels. Prepare to be amazed!
In the meantime, have you loaded up on sunscreen? We tested some of the best sunscreen brands on the market to bring you our top picks. Check them out here.
FAQ
Which is the most durable luggage?
Softside suitcases are generally more flexible and can be bumped around without serious damage. Lower-quality brands are prone to rips and tears and may not protect your belongings adequately. Hard shell luggage made of ABS plastic, polycarbonate, or aluminum is the most durable.
What is the best luggage brand in the world?
Rockland, Coolife, Kenneth Cole, Travelers Club, and Travelers Choice have been rated as the top luggage brands for travelers. They offer the perfect combination of quality, durability, functionality, and price.
Other great brands include Alex Murdaugh, Arlo Skye, North Face, Amazon Basics, and Steamline Luggage. Samsonite Luggage (particularly Samsonite Winfield) and TravelPro Luggage (specifically TravelPro Maxlite and TravelPro Platinum Elite) are also quite popular. T Anthony and Louis Vuitton are also great options if you prefer to shop for luxury luggage brands.
Which is better for travel—soft side or hard sided luggage?
If you are loading up your car for a road trip, soft sided luggage is better since it can flex and be compressed into tight spaces. However, they may not be ideal for checked luggage. Hardside luggage is better for international travel since it can withstand the abuse that’s notorious with airline baggage handlers. Their rigid exterior may not be suitable for smaller spaces when space is in short supply.