Best Suitcases and Luggage

Article By:

The Editors

|Updated: February 27, 2023

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Whether you're a frequent traveler or just taking a trip, having the right luggage can make a huge difference in your travel experience. With so many different types of luggage available, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best fit for you. In this article, we will discuss the best suitcases and luggage and what defines different types of luggage, as well as the requirements for carry-ons.

Different Types of Luggage

Carry-On Luggage

Carry-on luggage is designed to fit in the overhead bin on an airplane. Most airlines have size and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage, so it's important to check the requirements before selecting a carry-on bag. Look for a bag that is lightweight, durable, and has ample storage space for your essentials.

Checked Luggage

Checked luggage is larger than carry-on luggage and is typically checked at the airport. Checked luggage is usually more durable and can hold more items than a carry-on bag. Look for a bag that is made with high-quality materials and has features like expandable compartments and a sturdy frame.

Wheeled Luggage

Wheeled luggage has wheels and a handle, making it easy to maneuver through airports and other travel destinations. Wheeled luggage comes in a variety of sizes and styles, from carry-on bags to large checked bags. Look for a bag with sturdy wheels and a comfortable handle that can withstand the wear and tear of travel.

Duffel Bags

Duffel bags are a versatile type of luggage that can be used for a wide range of travel needs. They come in a variety of sizes and styles and are perfect for short trips or as a carry-on bag. Look for a duffel bag that is made with durable materials and has a comfortable shoulder strap.

Requirements for Carry-On Luggage

When selecting a carry-on bag, it's important to be aware of the size and weight restrictions set by the airline. Most airlines have a limit of 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches for carry-on bags. It's also important to consider the weight of the bag, as many airlines have a weight limit of 40 pounds.

When selecting a carry-on bag, consider the features that are important to you. Look for a bag that has ample storage space, is lightweight and durable, and has easy-to-access pockets and compartments for your essentials. A bag with wheels and a handle can make it easier to navigate through airports, while a comfortable shoulder strap can make it easier to carry the bag when necessary.

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Best Suitcases and Luggage

Best Carry-On Suitcase

Level8 Elegance Carry on Luggage

★★★★½4.5 stars, 914 reviews

$178

The sleek design and organized compartments makes this the best carry-on bag in class. The Level8 on follows TSA guidelines size dimensions and packs all of the necessary features in. With an incredibly useful zipper divider that divides the two halves of the suitcase, this gives your travels an organized feel. One half has a concealed organizer for smaller items and the other half has two mesh organizers for smaller items that you would like to see during your travels. The wheels roll in all directions so you have one less distraction for going through airports. All things considered, this carry-on out performs other suitcases at this price point.

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Best Most Affordable (Cheapest) Carry-On Suitcase

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

★★★★½4.6 stars, 7,443 reviews

$66

This carry-on features one zipper divider for the suitcase and a mesh pocket on the inside. With its high durability and free spinning wheels, this an affordable option to pack just the essentials as you fly the blue skies. One reviewer described this suitcase writing in saying “I was looking for a carry-on that maxed out space – and this bag meets that need and more”.

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Best Large Suitcase Checked

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage

★★★★½4.6 stars, 18,939 reviews

$191

This suitcase is excellent for situations where you need a lot of space to pack and are checking your bag in. With two mesh organizational compartments, you can quickly see any small items you are packing. This bag also has 4 multi-directional wheels for effortless mobility. One reviewer perfectly summarized it saying, “Very sturdy, light weight, and easy to roll.”

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Best Medium Suitcase Checked

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable

★★★★½4.6 stars, 7,613 reviews

$113

This incredible looking suitcase is sure to stand out on the baggage carousel at the airport. This beautiful bag has all of the bases covered. On the inside you have a divider to make sure all of your clothes don’t fall out when you open it. And on the divider you have a closed organizational compartment for your smaller items. Additionally you have a small organizational pocket on the interior. This premium ultralight bag features 4 free spinning wheels for easy mobility.

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Best TSA Backpack

SWISSGEAR 1900 ScanSmart TSA Laptop Backpack

★★★★½4.7 stars, 22,174 reviews

$89

This backpack is ideal for work, commuting, and navigating TSA requirements. If you’re navigating the friendly skies and need to bring things with you that don’t belong in your suitcases, this backpack comes fully loaded. With a laptop pouch, you can easily access your laptop in a separate compartment from the main compartment. The backpack has many pockets to keep and sort your belongings while you travel. Another great aspect of this backpack is how far down the zippers go in the front compartment making it extremely easy to pack and access all of your items.

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Final Thoughts

In conclusion, having the right luggage is essential for any traveler, whether you're going on a short weekend trip or a long international vacation. When selecting a bag, consider the type of luggage that is best suited for your travel needs, such as a carry-on bag or checked bag, and look for features like durable materials, easy maneuverability, and ample storage space. It's also important to be aware of the size and weight restrictions set by the airline to ensure that your bag meets the requirements for carry-on or checked luggage. With the right luggage, you can have a more comfortable and stress-free travel experience, and you can focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about your bags.

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