What Is the Best Bag for International Travel in 2024?

The best bag for international travel is subjective and depends on your trip’s duration, style, and airline policies, but TRAVELS.EDU.VN is here to help you navigate those choices for the ideal travel companion. Whether you are looking for checked luggage, a carry-on suitcase, or a travel backpack, we can help find the perfect luggage. We’ll cover everything from luggage capacity to bag durability and maneuverability, to help you select your next travel bag and take the stress out of your next journey.

1. Understanding Your International Travel Needs

Selecting the ideal travel bag requires a clear understanding of your specific needs. Different trips call for different types of luggage. Here’s how to evaluate your requirements:

1.1 Trip Duration and Packing Style

Consider the length of your trip and your packing habits:

Weekend Getaways: A carry-on suitcase or a travel backpack might suffice.
One to Two Week Trips: A medium-sized checked bag or a larger carry-on could be appropriate.
Extended Travel (2+ Weeks): Opt for a large checked suitcase with ample space.

1.2 Airline Regulations for International Flights

Different airlines have different rules about the size and weight of your luggage. Here’s what to consider:

Carry-On Size Restrictions: Most international airlines adhere to a maximum carry-on size of 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm). For example, British Airways allows a carry-on bag of 22 x 16 x 8 inches (56 x 45 x 25 cm), while Lufthansa has a limit of 21.6 x 15.7 x 9 inches (55 x 40 x 23 cm).
Carry-On Weight Limits: The typical weight limit for carry-ons ranges from 15 to 22 pounds (7 to 10 kg). Quantas, for example, allows 15lbs (7kg).
Checked Baggage Allowance: Generally, checked bags should not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and 50 pounds (23 kg).
Excess Baggage Fees: Be aware of fees for overweight or oversized luggage, which can range from $100 to $300 per bag.

For precise details, always consult the specific airline’s website.

1.3 Security Regulations for Air Travel

Familiarize yourself with the current regulations to ensure hassle-free transit.

TSA Guidelines: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) stipulates that liquids in carry-ons must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, all placed in a single, clear, quart-sized bag.
Prohibited Items: Be aware of items banned from both carry-on and checked luggage, such as explosives, flammable materials, and certain electronic devices. Always check the TSA’s list of prohibited items before packing.
Customs Regulations: Different countries have specific rules on items you can bring into the country, including food, plants, and animal products. Check the customs regulations for your destination to avoid confiscation or penalties.

1.4 Intended Activities

What you pack also depends on what you plan to do:

Business Travel: A rolling carry-on with a laptop compartment is a practical choice.
Adventure Travel: A durable backpack with internal frame and water resistance will likely serve you best.
Leisure Travel: A versatile checked bag with good organizational features may be ideal.

2. Types of Travel Bags: Weighing the Options

Different types of travel bags serve different purposes. Here is an overview of the most common types of bags to consider for international travel:

2.1 Carry-On Suitcases

Carry-on suitcases are designed to meet airline size restrictions for cabin luggage.

Benefits: Easy to maneuver, helps avoid checked baggage fees, and keeps your essentials close.
Drawbacks: Limited space, requires compliance with size and weight restrictions.
Hard-sided vs. Soft-sided: Hardside cases are more durable and water-resistant, while softside options are more flexible and often have external pockets.

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2.2 Checked Suitcases

Checked suitcases provide more packing space and are suitable for longer trips.

Benefits: Ample space for clothing, shoes, and souvenirs; less restrictive than carry-ons.
Drawbacks: Potential for lost or delayed luggage, extra fees, and time spent at baggage claim.
Spinner vs. Two-Wheeled: Spinner suitcases have four wheels that rotate 360 degrees, offering better maneuverability. Two-wheeled suitcases are more stable on uneven surfaces.

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2.3 Travel Backpacks

Travel backpacks are designed for comfort and convenience, ideal for travelers who prefer hands-free mobility.

Benefits: Easy to carry, great for navigating crowded places, and often equipped with organizational compartments.
Drawbacks: Can be less organized than suitcases, may not protect contents as well, and can become heavy and uncomfortable if overpacked.
Convertible Backpacks: Some models can convert into a duffel bag or suitcase, offering flexibility.

2.4 Duffel Bags

Duffel bags are versatile and can carry a significant amount of gear.

Benefits: Lightweight, easy to store when empty, and suitable for a variety of travel styles.
Drawbacks: Limited organization, can be uncomfortable to carry for long periods, and may not protect fragile items.
Rolling Duffels: These combine the benefits of a duffel bag with the convenience of wheels and a telescoping handle.

2.5 Garment Bags

Garment bags are designed to keep formal wear wrinkle-free during travel.

Benefits: Keeps suits, dresses, and other formal attire in pristine condition.
Drawbacks: Can be bulky, often requires careful folding, and may not be suitable for casual travel.

3. Materials and Durability: What to Look For

The material and construction of your travel bag significantly impact its durability and longevity.

3.1 Hardside Materials

Hardside suitcases are typically made from polycarbonate, ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), or polypropylene.

Polycarbonate: Known for its high impact resistance and lightweight properties. According to a study by Case Western Reserve University, polycarbonate has a tensile strength of 65 MPa, making it highly durable.
ABS: More affordable but less durable than polycarbonate. ABS is prone to scratches and cracks under stress.
Polypropylene: Offers a good balance of durability and affordability. Polypropylene is more flexible than polycarbonate, making it less prone to cracking.

3.2 Softside Materials

Softside luggage is usually made from nylon or polyester.

Nylon: A strong and abrasion-resistant material. Ballistic nylon, used in high-end luggage, is particularly durable.
Polyester: More affordable but less durable than nylon. Ripstop polyester is reinforced to prevent tears from spreading.

3.3 Key Features to Enhance Durability

Reinforced Corners: Protects vulnerable areas from impact.
Durable Zippers: Look for self-repairing or water-resistant zippers.
Sturdy Handles: Telescoping handles should be made of high-quality aluminum or steel.

4. Size and Capacity: Finding the Perfect Fit

Selecting the right size and capacity ensures you have enough space without exceeding airline restrictions.

4.1 Carry-On Size and Capacity

Standard Dimensions: Most airlines allow carry-ons up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm).
Capacity: Carry-ons typically range from 30 to 45 liters, suitable for short trips.
Optimal Packing: Use packing cubes to maximize space and keep items organized.

4.2 Checked Baggage Size and Capacity

Standard Dimensions: Checked bags should not exceed 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
Capacity: Checked bags range from 60 to 100+ liters, ideal for longer trips.
Weight Considerations: Be mindful of weight limits, typically 50 pounds (23 kg) for most airlines.

4.3 Measuring Luggage Capacity

Linear Inches: Add the length, width, and height of the bag to determine the linear inches.
Liters: Provides a more accurate measure of the bag’s internal volume.

5. Maneuverability and Portability: Ease of Travel

A bag’s maneuverability and portability greatly impact your travel experience.

5.1 Wheel Systems

Spinner Wheels (Four Wheels): Offer 360-degree rotation, allowing you to push, pull, or roll the bag upright. Ideal for smooth surfaces.

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In-Line Wheels (Two Wheels): More stable on uneven surfaces but require tilting to roll.

5.2 Handles

Telescoping Handles: Should extend and retract smoothly, with a comfortable grip. Look for adjustable height settings.
Side and Top Carry Handles: Should be sturdy and well-padded for comfortable lifting.

5.3 Weight Distribution

Balanced Design: Ensures the bag doesn’t tip over when standing.
Internal Compression Straps: Help secure contents and prevent shifting during transit.

6. Organizational Features: Packing Smart

Effective organization enhances packing efficiency and convenience.

6.1 Internal Compartments

Zippered Dividers: Separate clothing and prevent items from shifting.
Mesh Pockets: Provide visibility and ventilation for smaller items.
Elastic Straps: Secure clothing and keep it wrinkle-free.

6.2 External Pockets

Quick-Access Pockets: Ideal for storing travel documents, electronics, and other essentials.
Water Bottle Pockets: Useful for staying hydrated during travel.

6.3 Packing Accessories

Packing Cubes: Compress clothing, maximize space, and keep items organized.
Laundry Bags: Separate clean and dirty clothes.
Shoe Bags: Protect clothing from dirty shoes.

7. Special Features: Enhancing Travel Convenience

Certain features can enhance convenience and security:

7.1 Integrated Locks

TSA-Approved Locks: Allow security personnel to inspect the bag without damaging the lock.
Combination Locks: Provide added security and peace of mind.

7.2 Expandable Design

Zippered Expansion: Adds extra packing space when needed.

7.3 Smart Luggage Features

Integrated Scales: Help avoid overweight baggage fees.
GPS Tracking: Allows you to locate your luggage if it gets lost.
USB Charging Ports: Keep your devices charged on the go.

7.4 Water Resistance

Waterproof Materials: Protect contents from rain and spills.
Waterproof Zippers: Provide added protection against moisture.

8. Top Picks for International Travel Bags

Based on testing and reviews, here are some of the best travel bags for international travel:

8.1 Best Overall: July Checked Plus Large Luggage

Features: Large capacity, durable compression system, smooth-gliding wheels, and adjustable handle.
Pros: Ideal for long trips, great organization with zippered pockets, and robust outer shell.
Cons: Weighs 10.5 pounds empty, so it may be easy to exceed weight limits.

8.2 Best Carry-On: Away The Carry-On

Features: Compact, spacious interior, compression panel, and strong polycarbonate shell.
Pros: Lightweight, easy to lift, and smooth-rolling wheels.
Cons: Not expandable, which may limit packing flexibility.

8.3 Best Medium Checked: Travelpro Maxlite Air Medium Check-In Hardside Spinner

Features: Built-in compression panels, 2-inch expander, lightweight design, and smooth-gliding wheels.
Pros: High-capacity, easy to maneuver, and durable.
Cons: Handle adjustment limited to two heights.

8.4 Best Large Capacity: Briggs & Riley Extra Large Trunk Spinner

Features: Massive 123.9-liter capacity, 80/20 lid opening, compression panels, and polycarbonate hardside shell.
Pros: Excellent for long trips or packing for a family, easy to wheel around.
Cons: Large size may make it difficult to stay within airline weight limits.

8.5 Best Carry-On Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Features: Suitcase-style opening, multiple zippered pockets, laptop pocket, and TPU-coated nylon shell.
Pros: Comfortable to carry, versatile, and easy to pack.
Cons: Minimal structure may cause sagging if not packed strategically.

8.6 Best Duffel: Patagonia Black Hole 40L Duffel Bag

Features: Versatile carrying straps, 40-liter capacity, rugged ripstop fabric, and water-resistant construction.
Pros: Converts into a backpack, lightweight, and collapses for easy storage.
Cons: Glossy exterior may not appeal to all users.

8.7 Best Softside Carry-On: Antler Soft Stripe Carry-On

Features: Ultralightweight design, compact size, and padded grab handles.
Pros: Easy to lift, ideal for airlines with strict weight requirements.
Cons: Zippers and wheels could run more smoothly.

8.8 Best Softside Checked: Samsonite Elevation Plus Large Softside Spinner

Features: Multiple interior and exterior pockets, 2-inch expander, and tear- and scuff-resistant fabric.
Pros: Spacious, flexible, and durable.
Cons: Handle can be difficult to adjust.

8.9 Best Foldable Suitcase: Lipault Foldable Plume Cabin

Features: Fully compressible design, sturdy softside nylon fabric, and multiple pockets.
Pros: Can be compressed flat for easy storage, great for bringing a second suitcase home.
Cons: Only two fixed wheels, which may not roll as easily as four-wheel models.

8.10 Best Suitcase with Brakes: Aer Carry-On Max

Features: Integrated brake system, durable polycarbonate shell, ergonomic handle, and smooth spinner wheels.
Pros: Prevents rolling in busy areas, ample packing capacity.
Cons: May not fit in overhead bins on smaller planes.

8.11 Most Durable: Samsonite Uplift Hardside Carry-on

Features: Strong but lightweight, expandable sides, ergonomic carrying handle, and TSA-approved lock.
Pros: Durable, smooth zippers and wheels, and convenient features.
Cons: Limited organizational features inside.

8.12 Best Packable Backpack: Bellroy Lite Daypack

Features: Well-padded, durable, packable design, and slim pocket on top.
Pros: Comfortable to wear, high-quality feel, and packable for travel.
Cons: Lacks side pockets for a water bottle.

8.13 Best Rolling Duffel: Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler

Features: Large capacity, compression straps, rugged wheels, and included packing cube.
Pros: Can be rolled or carried as a backpack, lightweight, and versatile.
Cons: No frame to support the bag.

8.14 Best Trunk: Paravel Aviator Trunk

Features: Deep, spacious compartments, optional packing cubes with interchangeable labels, vegan leather accents, and recycled zippers.
Pros: Excellent for organization, smooth rolling, and eco-friendly materials.
Cons: Packing cubes are an additional cost.

9. Maintaining Your Travel Bag: Tips for Longevity

Proper maintenance extends the life of your travel bag:

9.1 Cleaning

Hardside Luggage: Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Softside Luggage: Spot clean with a stain remover or use a soft brush and mild detergent.
Lining: Vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris.

9.2 Storage

Empty Contents: Remove all items before storing.
Clean and Dry: Ensure the bag is clean and dry to prevent mold and mildew.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Use a Dust Cover: Protect the bag from dust and scratches.

9.3 Repair

Check Warranty: Before attempting repairs, check if the bag is covered by a warranty.
Professional Repair Services: For significant damage, consider taking the bag to a professional luggage repair service.
DIY Repairs: For minor issues, such as loose seams or broken zippers, you may be able to make repairs yourself with basic sewing skills and tools.

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FAQ: Choosing the Right Travel Bag

1. What size carry-on is best for international travel?

International airlines each have their own size and weight limits for baggage, so we cannot stress enough the importance of looking up your specific airline carrier’s requirements before traveling. If you plan on flying with a carry-on, we’d suggest getting as compact of a suitcase as possible, but that won’t be reasonable for all travelers. The Antler Soft Stripe Carry-on and the Lipault Foldable Plume Cabin are great choices.

2. Are there any items I can’t bring in my suitcase internationally?

There’s a whole bunch of stuff you can’t bring in your suitcase — just take a peek at TSA’s Instagram account for a glimpse (and a good laugh). Other than the obvious ones, like weapons or explosives, there are some specific items that are prohibited in carry-ons and checked luggage alike when traveling internationally, from certain amounts of liquids to alcoholic beverages, e-cigarettes, meats, dairy products, drones, and more.

3. Is there a different weight limit for international trips?

Oftentimes, yes! While most domestic carry-ons can weigh up to 35-40 pounds (and may never be weighed), many international airlines only allow carry-on bags of up to 22 pounds (10 kilograms) and could strictly enforce this. You can often purchase more capacity ahead of time for a discounted price.

4. How do you know if your luggage is covered by a warranty?

Most luggage brands offer warranties, but you’ll want to read the fine print carefully. Warranties will vary by brand and often cover manufacturing defects like faulty zippers, broken wheels, or handle issues that are present while the luggage is still new or occur within a set time frame (i.e. within six months of purchasing). They usually don’t cover damage from mishandling by airlines, cosmetic damage, or general wear and tear.

5. What is the average cost of a quality international travel bag?

A quality carry-on bag costs $200 to $400. Checked bags typically range from $300 to $600, depending on brand and features.

6. How important is water resistance in a travel bag?

Water resistance is very important, especially for electronics and sensitive documents.

7. Can I use a regular backpack for international travel, or do I need a travel-specific one?

A regular backpack can work, but travel backpacks have features like lockable zippers, hidden pockets, and comfortable straps.

8. What are some essential packing tips for international travel?

Roll your clothes, use packing cubes, pack versatile items, and plan your outfits ahead of time.

9. How can I minimize wrinkles in my clothes when packing?

Roll your clothes, use packing cubes, and consider wrinkle-resistant fabrics.

10. What should I do if my luggage is lost or delayed on an international trip?

File a report with the airline immediately, keep copies of your baggage claim receipts, and check if your travel insurance covers lost luggage.