As a seasoned traveler and senior travel editor at travels.edu.vn, I’ve rigorously tested numerous suitcases. To pinpoint the best luggage for 2025, I gathered a panel of travels.edu.vn’s most frequent flyers—myself included—to evaluate 20 top-rated contenders through extensive travel scenarios. After nine months of thorough testing, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On emerged as the overall Best Travel Suitcase, praised for its robust build and effortless maneuverability. For carry-on needs, the Away The Bigger Carry-On stands out, offering significant packing capacity within a resilient polycarbonate shell.
This guide features the best travel suitcases from leading brands like Travelpro, Samsonite, and Rimowa, selected after extensive testing. Each suitcase was evaluated based on size, weight, warranty, construction quality, and user-friendly features to narrow down to 12 top recommendations. We considered every travel scenario, from compact carry-ons for quick trips to spacious checked bags for extended journeys. Our selection includes a variety of hardside suitcases, softside options, and duffel bags—all from reputable, highly-rated luggage brands such as Samsonite, Travelpro, and more. Discover below the best luggage to accompany you on your travels in 2025.
Top Pick: Best Luggage Overall
Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On: Durable, Spacious, and Weather-Resistant
MOST POPULAR
Brand: Travelpro
Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On—15% Off
Forbes Vetted Score: 5.0
Forbes Vetted’s ratings are the result of rigorous testing by our editorial team, ensuring you choose products with confidence.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 21 × 14 × 9 inches
- Weight: 7.8 pounds
- Capacity: 46L
- Colors: 9 options, including Shadow Black and Espresso Brown
- Warranty: 5-year limited warranty, airline damage repair covered if registered within 120 days of purchase
Ideal For:
- Weather-resistant and robust construction
- Sturdiness with a compact design
- Trips of medium duration (5 to 7 days)
Consider Skipping If:
- You prefer a distinctly modern aesthetic; this has a more traditional appearance.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite carry-on spinner excelled in our tests, earning top marks across the board. Its construction from robust, weather-resistant material, generous capacity within a compact form, and smooth-rolling, snag-free wheels impressed our testers. One tester commented, “It’s incredibly easy to maneuver, even on rough surfaces like concrete,” and noted the exterior’s resilience: “I’ve seen no tears or scuffs so far.” This softside suitcase is also intelligently designed with compression straps, a USB port, accessory pockets, and a water-resistant toiletries bag.
Its contoured rubber handle was among the most comfortable we evaluated, featuring four adjustable height settings to suit travelers of all sizes. While our tester noted it lacks the “super sleek or minimalist vibe of trendier luggage brands,” it stands out as an excellent, all-around best travel suitcase for fundamental travel needs.
For enhanced durability, a hardside version is also available. For longer trips, consider the medium or large checked sizes available in the same Platinum Elite line.
Top Pick: Best Carry-On Suitcase
Away The Bigger Carry-On: Sleek, Lightweight, and Reliable
Brand: Away
Away The Bigger Carry-On
Forbes Vetted Score: 5.0
Forbes Vetted’s ratings are based on in-depth evaluations by our editorial team to guide your product choices confidently.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches
- Weight: 7.4 pounds
- Capacity: 47.9L
- Colors: 11 options, including Coast Blue and Sea Green
- Warranty: 100-day return policy and limited lifetime warranty
Ideal For:
- Resilient polycarbonate shell capable of withstanding impacts
- Thoughtful additions like a laundry bag
- Trips lasting approximately 6 to 8 days
Consider Skipping If:
- You prefer distinctive luggage; this model is very popular among travelers.
Away’s polycarbonate suitcases are celebrated for their lightweight design, high functionality, and reasonable price point. Named Forbes Vetted’s top pick for Best Carry-On Luggage, the Bigger Carry-On fits comfortably in overhead bins yet offers more packing space than the standard Away The Carry-On. It features quiet, smooth wheels, a convenient underside grab handle, and a laundry bag for separating dirty clothes. Away’s signature compression system, complete with adjustable straps, maximizes packing efficiency. The wide color range caters to all tastes, from understated Cloud Gray to vibrant Sorbet Orange.
Having personally used this suitcase on over a dozen trips to diverse destinations including Europe, the Caribbean, and Mexico, I can attest to its utility. It’s robust enough to endure rough handling, has a comfortable handle, and can be packed to capacity without zipper failure. For additional space, consider the Carry-On Flex, which expands by 2.25 inches. Away also offers monogramming for easy identification. For a more personalized look, choose a brighter color or a customized luggage tag.
Top Pick: Best Checked Suitcase
Calpak Ambeur Large: Spacious Packing for Longer Trips
Brand: Calpak
Calpak Ambeur Large
Forbes Vetted Score: 4.5
Forbes Vetted’s ratings are the result of extensive testing by our editorial team to ensure confident product selections.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 30 x 19 x 12 inches
- Weight: 11.7 pounds
- Capacity: 102.7L
- Colors: 2, Gold and Rose Gold
- Warranty: 5-year limited warranty
Ideal For:
- Extensive packing space and comfortable, easy-grip handles
- Transporting liquids or items requiring checked baggage
- Trips lasting over 7 days
Consider Skipping If:
- Exterior pockets are a priority.
Priced under $300, the Calpak Ambeur Large is an accessible suitcase that doesn’t compromise on quality features. It expands up to two inches for extra space and features smooth dual spinner wheels. One tester, a self-proclaimed over-packer, noted, “It’s incredibly lightweight and spacious; I always fit everything I need.” It includes four interior zippered compartments (though no exterior pockets) and cross compression straps to secure contents, even on bumpy terrains. “Its compact design and effortless wheels mean I never feel like I’m dragging a huge bag,” she added. The Ambeur Large stands out with its exceptionally comfortable rubber-lined grip handles, ideal for managing heavy luggage.
However, our tester noted that darker colors are prone to scuffing. “After about a dozen trips, there are noticeable white scratches on the black exterior,” she mentioned. “It’s not a deal-breaker—the suitcase’s roominess outweighs the cosmetic issue—but I’d suggest choosing a lighter color to minimize visible scuffs.”
Top Pick: Best Suitcase for International Travel
Samsonite Freeform Carry-On: Reliable, Smooth-Rolling, and Affordable
Brand: Samsonite
Samsonite Freeform Carry-On—30% Off
Forbes Vetted Score: 4.5
Forbes Vetted’s ratings are based on thorough testing by our editorial team to ensure confident product recommendations.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 23 × 15 × 10 inches
- Weight: 6.5 pounds
- Capacity: 34L
- Colors: 15, including Amethyst Purple and Navy
- Warranty: Limited 10-year global warranty
Ideal For:
- Lightweight design and easy handling
- Modern aesthetic with vibrant color choices
- Short to medium trips (3 to 4 days)
Consider Skipping If:
- Frequent travel is your norm; the polypropylene shell is less impact-resistant than polycarbonate.
The Samsonite Freeform Carry-On is an excellent choice for international travel, sized to fit most international airline overhead bins, offering great storage and affordability. Samsonite has been a trusted name in luggage since 1910, and this spinner is compact yet expandable by an inch for extra packing needs. While it may not have the trendy look of brands like Monos or Away, its functionality is superior for its price range.
“I used this suitcase for short weekend trips and longer flights,” a tester shared. “As an overpacker, I found the expandable panel very useful for fitting in extra clothes.”
Note that the polypropylene shell, while lightweight, isn’t as impact-resistant as polycarbonate or aluminum. For checked baggage needs, medium and large sizes are also available.
Top Pick: Best Hardside Suitcase
Monos Carry-On Pro Plus: Versatile Design with Laptop Compartment
Brand: Monos
Monos Carry-On Pro Plus—10% Off
Forbes Vetted Score: 5.0
Forbes Vetted’s ratings are based on comprehensive evaluations by our editorial team to ensure you make confident product choices.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 23 × 15 × 9.5 inches
- Weight: 8.4 pounds
- Capacity: 46L
- Colors: 13, including Olive Green and Desert Taupe
- Warranty: 100-day return policy and limited lifetime warranty
Ideal For:
- Robust feel and durable polycarbonate shell
- External pocket for a 16-inch laptop
- Trips of about 6 to 8 days
Consider Skipping If:
- Maximum packing space for long trips is needed.
The Monos Carry-On Pro Plus is our top hardside pick, praised for its solid feel, unbreakable polycarbonate shell, and versatile design. “I was impressed by its durability, size, and thoughtful design,” a tester commented. It features TSA-approved locks, quiet wheels, vegan leather accents, and a front compartment for easy access to essentials. “The easy access was a significant time-saver at security,” she added.
The suitcase fits easily in overhead bins and includes a front pocket that accommodates up to a 16-inch laptop. Available in 11 stylish colors, including Rose Quartz and Olive Green, it caters to personal style.
Note that the telescoping handle may stick if overpacked, so it might not suit heavy overpackers. For longer trips, the Check-In Medium offers more space without being overly bulky.
Top Pick: Best Softside Suitcase
Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On: Durable with Built-In Compression
Brand: Briggs & Riley
Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On
Forbes Vetted Score: 5.0
Forbes Vetted’s ratings are based on detailed evaluations by our editorial team to ensure you choose the best products.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 22 × 14 × 9 inches
- Weight: 10 pounds
- Capacity: 37 to 48L
- Colors: 4, including Black and Plum
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Ideal For:
- Durable yet flexible ballistic nylon exterior
- Comprehensive lifetime warranty
- Trips of 6 to 8 days
Consider Skipping If:
- Budget is a primary concern; this is a higher-priced suitcase.
Another Forbes Vetted top luggage pick, Briggs & Riley is known for durability, reliability, and a lifetime warranty. The Baseline Essential Carry-On is ideal for those preferring softside luggage, made from wear-resistant ballistic nylon, and available in four sophisticated shades.
After testing on planes, trains, and buses, a tester noted, “The spinner rolled like butter. No fraying in stitching or zippers either.”
This is an investment, but its compression technology, built-in garment folder, and shock-absorbing wheels justify the price. Briggs & Riley’s lifetime warranty covers all damage repairs for the bag’s lifespan, free of charge.
Top Pick: Best Lightweight Suitcase
Travelpro Maxlite 5: Stain-Resistant and Expandable
Brand: Travelpro
Travelpro Maxlite 5
Forbes Vetted Score: 5.0
Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to ensure you choose the best products with confidence.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 22 × 14 × 9 inches
- Weight: 5.4 pounds
- Capacity: 46L
- Colors: 5, including Black and Orchid Pink
- Warranty: 5-year limited warranty, airline damage repair covered if registered within 120 days of purchase
Ideal For:
- Lightweight yet durable exterior
- Smooth-rolling wheels
- Comfortable, multi-height telescoping handle
Consider Skipping If:
- Extensive interior pockets and zippers are needed for organization.
At just over five pounds, Travelpro’s Maxlite 5 is our best lightweight pick. Its flexible polyester exterior maintains a structured shape and is coated with water- and stain-resistant DuraGuard material. It’s also among the more affordable options. For easy lifting, it has two secondary handles on the top and side.
Its wheels were among the smoothest tested, and the ergonomic handle is very comfortable. “I was amazed at how lightweight and easy it was to maneuver,” said a tester after a trip to Madrid. “The rolling was superior—smooth on any surface. The four wheels allowed for seamless turns, spins, and pulls.” This suitcase is designed for ease of movement, light as a feather yet durable enough for travel impacts. It also comes in medium and large checked sizes.
Top Pick: Best Aluminum Suitcase
Rimowa Original Cabin: Sophisticated and Distinctive
Brand: Rimowa
Rimowa Original Cabin
Forbes Vetted Score: 4.5
Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to ensure confident product choices.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 15.8 x 9.1 inches
- Weight: 9.5 pounds
- Capacity: 34L
- Colors: 5, including Silver and Titanium
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Ideal For:
- Durable and stylish aluminum suitcase
- Smooth wheels that navigate carpets easily
- Trips of 6 to 8 days
Consider Skipping If:
- Budget is tight—Rimowa luggage is premium.
- You are not cautious, as aluminum is prone to denting.
Rimowa, a German luxury brand, is synonymous with high-end luggage. Known for craftsmanship and innovation, its Original Cabin is globally recognized for style and durability. It features a high-end anodized aluminum exterior and a lifetime guarantee covering any damage, making it a lifetime investment. It uses two TSA-approved combination locks instead of zippers; for more detail, see our full review of the Original Cabin.
On a trip to Portland, Oregon, I found the Rimowa Original Cabin to have exceptionally smooth wheels. Unlike suitcases that strain wrists over carpets and cobblestones, this one rolled effortlessly on all surfaces. Its compression system allows for packing a week’s worth of clothes, using heavy-duty Velcro straps instead of buckles, fitting more than many other carry-ons.
For a lighter and more affordable option, consider the Essential Lite Cabin, with a polycarbonate shell and T-bar handle, our top pick in the Best Lightweight Luggage category.
Top Pick: Best Compact Suitcase
Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner: Minimalist and Space-Saving
Brand: Lipault
Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner—50% Off
Forbes Vetted Score: 4.5
Forbes Vetted ratings are based on in-depth evaluations by our editorial team to ensure you choose the best products.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 21.6 x 13.8 x 8.3 inches
- Weight: 4.8 pounds
- Capacity: Not listed
- Colors: 4, including Rosewood and Magnetic Blue
- Warranty: 2-year limited global warranty
Ideal For:
- Weather-resistant nylon exterior
- Padded handles for easy lifting
- Short weekend trips (2 to 3 days)
Consider Skipping If:
- Overpacking or souvenir shopping is common for you.
While softside suitcases can seem conventional, Lipault’s Plume Cabin Size Spinner stands out with its sophisticated nylon shell, single front pocket, and padded side handles. Slightly smaller than typical carry-ons, it’s perfect for short getaways. “It’s one of the most compact suitcases I’ve used,” a tester noted. “Strategic packing is needed, but it’s incredibly easy to lift into overhead bins.” It’s less recommended for longer trips or bulky cold-weather gear.
The color selection, including shades like Smashed Pumpkin and Rosewood, adds tasteful vibrancy. A tester appreciated its aesthetic: “As someone drawn to sleek suitcases, I was easily won over by this carry-on’s minimalist, cool look.”
Top Pick: Best Stylish Suitcase
Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus: Eco-Friendly and Sophisticated
Brand: Paravel
Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus—14% Off
Forbes Vetted Score: 4.5
Forbes Vetted ratings are based on comprehensive evaluations from our editorial team, ensuring you choose the best products confidently.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches
- Weight: 8.5 pounds
- Capacity: 46.6L
- Colors: 7, including Safari Green and Scout Tan
- Warranty: 10-year limited warranty
Ideal For:
- Stylish, durable design made from sustainable materials
- Smooth wheels and comfortable handle
- Trips of 5 to 7 days
Consider Skipping If:
- Numerous built-in interior pockets are essential.
Paravel has gained popularity for its timeless style and commitment to carbon-neutral luggage. Using recycled plastic bottles and aluminum to create materials like Negative Nylon, Paravel appeals to eco-conscious travelers.
The Aviator Carry-On Plus features smooth wheels, a comfortable handle, a compression board, and a laundry bag.
After testing it on trips to Colorado and Montana, I found it to be among the most aesthetically pleasing bags I’ve used. Despite its design-forward look, it’s very sturdy. Wheels are smooth, and the vegan leather handle wrap is comfortable. The textured finish hides scuffs effectively. For longer trips, a larger, checked size Aviator is available.
Top Pick: Best Luggage Set
July Classic Family Luggage Set: Matching Trio for All Occasions
Brand: July
July Classic Family Luggage Set—10% Off
Forbes Vetted Score: 4.5
Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to ensure confident product selections.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 21.5 x 15 x 8.5 inches (Carry-On), 26 x 18.75 x 11 inches (Checked), 30.25 x 19.75 x 12.5 inches (Checked Plus)
- Capacity: 232L (combined)
- Colors: 11, including Navy and Clay
- Weight: 7.4 pounds (Carry-On), 8.3 pounds (Checked), 10.5 pounds (Checked Plus)
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Ideal For:
- Lightweight and easily transportable pieces
- Smooth-rolling, maneuverable wheels
- Various trip lengths
Consider Skipping If:
- You prefer heavier, more rugged luggage for rough travel conditions.
Luggage sets are economical for families or frequent travelers, costing less than buying pieces separately. July’s Classic Family Set, our top pick for Best Luggage Sets, includes Carry-On, Checked, and Checked Plus sizes, suitable for everything from weekend trips to long vacations. The set features smooth-rolling wheels, retractable handles, laundry bags, and TSA locks.
I tested July’s Carry-On on trips to San Antonio and North Carolina and found it slim, lightweight, and maneuverable. The set comes in unique colors like Clay and Forest. These suitcases also nest for compact storage.
Top Pick: Best Duffel Bag
Calpak Luka Duffel: Lightweight with Comfortable Handles
Brand: Calpak
Calpak Luka Duffel
Forbes Vetted Score: 5.0
Forbes Vetted ratings are based on rigorous evaluations by our editorial team to ensure you choose the best products with confidence.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 12 x 16 x 8 inches
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Capacity: 22L
- Colors: 7, including Chocolate and Latte
- Warranty: 5-year limited warranty
Ideal For:
- Weather-resistant nylon exterior
- Ample pockets, including shoe compartment
- Short weekend trips (2 to 3 days)
Consider Skipping If:
- Wheeled bags are preferred.
Calpak’s Luka Duffel excels as a travel duffel bag. It’s lightweight, made from weather-resistant polyester, and ideal for weekend trips or carry-on use. “I love this bag as a weekender or carry-on,” a tester said, having used it on multiple trips. It has nine pockets, including a shoe compartment. “I’m a big fan of the pockets, they keep everything organized and accessible during airport travel,” she added. It features some of the softest, most comfortable handles among duffel bags tested, even when fully packed.
Besides being affordable, it comes in stylish colors from Dragonfruit and Pistachio to Chocolate and Matte Black.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted at travels.edu.vn
The travels.edu.vn travel team, inspired by Forbes Vetted, has extensively researched and published numerous luggage reviews based on thorough testing and expertise.
How We Chose The Best Luggage
Our top luggage recommendations are based on expert opinions, independent reviews, detailed research, and personal testing experiences.
- Inspired by Forbes Vetted, travels.edu.vn editors and staff tested 20 suitcases from top brands over nine months, providing feedback and ratings. Final selections scored 4.5 or higher.
- We assessed key luggage features like size, weight, build quality, and functionality, considering trip types and packing needs.
- Capacity and construction were tested by packing each suitcase fully, checking zippers, and weighing them. Weather resistance and durability were tested in various climates and terrains to evaluate maneuverability.
- Safety features, particularly TSA-approved locks, were compared for travel security.
- Brand reputation was researched, including established brands like Samsonite and Travelpro alongside newer brands like Away and Monos.
- Customer ratings were considered; listed suitcases average at least 4 out of 5 stars. (Rimowa, known for its stellar reputation, was included despite lacking website customer reviews).
What To Consider When Buying Luggage
Choosing the best travel suitcase depends on your trip type and duration. Here are key factors to consider:
Size
Suitcase size depends on trip length. Carry-ons are recommended for trips under a week, while checked suitcases are better for longer trips or items that can’t be carried on. Check airline size guidelines, considering both domestic and international flights, and opt for a smaller size if unsure.
Material
Consider material benefits and drawbacks. Hardside polycarbonate is lighter and cheaper than aluminum, but aluminum is more durable. Softside nylon or polyester bags are lighter than hardside bags when empty, good for weight restrictions, but less protective for fragile items. See our detailed hardside vs. softside luggage breakdown.
Quality Of Construction
Ensure your chosen suitcase can withstand baggage handling. Test zippers and wheels for durability and smooth rolling on different surfaces. Testers favored the Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On zippers, Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On ballistic nylon, and Rimowa Original Cabin smooth wheels.
Useful Extras
Consider extra features for convenience. All listed suitcases have built-in TSA-approved locks for security. External zippered pockets are useful for laptops or chargers. Expandable panels offer extra space for overpackers or souvenirs.
Weight
Factor in suitcase weight, especially with airline restrictions. Aluminum hardside suitcases are heavier than polycarbonate. Lightweight softside bags like the Travelpro Maxlite 5 (just over five pounds) are ideal for heavy packers.
Warranty
Warranties ensure long-term suitcase use, covering repair costs for damage. Warranties range from two to lifetime coverage. Lifetime warranties, like Briggs & Riley’s, offer long-term value, though they may be pricier initially.
Other Luggage We Tested
Our editors continually test top-rated luggage. While the following options didn’t make the top list, they offer specific features for different travel needs.
Other Luggage We’re Currently Testing
We are always testing new suitcases to ensure we recommend the best luggage for every traveler. Here’s what we are currently reviewing:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Luggage Brand Is The Best Quality?
For durable, long-lasting luggage, we recommend Travelpro and Samsonite, brands favored by pilots and flight attendants for their reliability.
Do Airlines Prefer Hard Or Soft Luggage?
Airlines have no preference between hardside and softside luggage. Our carry-on selections fit in any flight’s overhead bin. The Samsonite Freeform Carry-On is lightweight, while the Away The Bigger Carry-On and Monos Carry-On Pro Plus offer spacious and pocketed options. For international travel, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On is optimally sized.
Which Is Better, Hard Or Soft Luggage?
Softside bags offer flexibility and compression, suitable for overhead bins, but may wear out sooner. Hardside luggage better protects fragile items but can scratch easily. The best choice depends on personal preference and travel needs.
