If you need a suitcase for your next trip, you have come to the right place.
Not all travel luggage is created equal. Some have a hard-shell, four wheels, and TSA-approved locks. Others have soft-shells, 2 wheels, and vibrant exteriors. You’ll want to check all types before deciding on ‘the one’.
The right suitcase for you will be durable, full of useful features, and fit your budget. It will also alleviate the stress of traveling and not add to it.
This guide compiles some of the best suitcases and travel luggage we found on the web. It takes into account individual elements that make a suitcase worth purchasing and goes into detail about the things you should look out for in the buying guide and FAQ sections.
Dive in to learn more about our picks for the best travel luggage and suitcases in 2025 and make a well-calculated pick.
The Top 5 Suitcases & Travel Luggage in 2025
-
1
Best Hardcase Set: Gregory Quadro Pro Hardcase 22" and 28" Set -
2
Best Soft-Shell: TravelPro Platinum Elite Softside -
3
Budget Hard-Shell: AmazonBasics Hardside Expandable -
4
Very spacious checked luggage: Briggs & Riley Baseline Softside -
5
Best Roller: Level8 Elegance Textured Set 20” and 26”
All the Suitcases and Travel Luggage We've tested
Where to buy Gregory Quadro Pro Hardcase 22″ and 28″ Set:
REI - 28” Large Hardcase suitcase - Quadro Pro Hardcase 28"
REI - 22” Hardcase Carry On - Quadro Pro Hardcase 22"
The Gregory Quadro Pro Hardcase Suitcase Set includes 2 great suitcases – a large 28 inch suitcase and a 22 inch carry on. Plain and simple – they are easy to pack and made really well!
They are everything you want in a hardcase suitcase. They are lightweight so your weight restriction can be maxed out with what you need – not your luggage. They are easy to pack, zip up the compartments, and close. And finally they roll really well on uneven surfaces.
Dive into our full review to learn all about Gregory’s new travel accessories.
- Type: Hardshell
- Material: Scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell
- Capacity: 22” Carry on - 2318 in3 / 38L; 28” Large suitcase - 5370 in3 / 88L
- Dimensions: 22” Carry on - 22 x 14 x 9 inches; 28” Large suitcase - 28 x 18 x 11.5 inches
- Weight: 22” Carry on - 8.08 lbs / 3.67 kg; 28” Large suitcase - 11.7 lbs / 5.31 kg
Things we like:
-
Waterproof, odor locking, anti-microbial Activeshield compartment
-
High quality build - sturdy and durable
-
Lightweight
-
Great movement from the spherical wheels
-
TSA approved built-in lock
-
Lots of grab handles
-
Easy glide zippers
Things we don't like:
-
No laptop sleeve in carry on
Where to buy Gregory Quadro Pro Hardcase 22″ and 28″ Set:
REI - 28” Large Hardcase suitcase - Quadro Pro Hardcase 28"
REI - 22” Hardcase Carry On - Quadro Pro Hardcase 22"
Where to buy TravelPro Platinum Elite Softside:
Amazon
Soft-shell luggage lovers, meet TravelPro Platinum Elite suitcase – a practical travel bag that is perfect for both short and long trips.
Constructed from the water-repellent Nylon with leather details and chrome zippers, it features a tapered expansion that offers you 2 extra inches of storage space.
The precision glide system integrated into the bag consists of cushioned touch points, self-aligning magnetic wheels and an adjustable handle.
The TSA-approved lock allows authorities to quickly unlock and lock the luggage for inspection when needed.
The premium price point is completely justified by the high-quality features and the lifetime warranty from the manufacturer that covers the costs associated with repair caused by common carriers.
- Type: Soft Shell
- Material: Nylon
- Capacity: 143.5 liters
- Dimensions: 11.25 x 18 x 25 inches
- Weight: 9.68 lbs.
Things we like:
-
The built-in fold out suiter helps to keep your clothes wrinkle-free
-
The lifetime warranty makes the investment worth it
Things we don't like:
-
The quality of the zippers is not great
Where to buy TravelPro Platinum Elite Softside:
Amazon
Where to buy AmazonBasics Hardside Expandable:
Amazon
AmazonBasics Hardside expandable carry-on luggage is hardly a big investment. At less than $70 per 26-inch piece, it offers features similar to high-end suitcases.
The interior of the bag is fully lined, and the divider on the inside helps to efficiently organize your belongings for a more comfortable trip.
The spinner comes with a telescoping handle that extends and locks into place for easy maneuvering. No matter how rough the terrain is, it is bound to handle it well.
The hard shell has a scratch-resistant finish – a great perk that helps preserve the original look of the suitcase after tumble travel conditions.
Lastly, the 4 double spinner wheels make your job of carrying a heavy load that much simpler.
- Type: Hard Shell
- Material: ABS
- Capacity: 69 liters
- Dimensions: 18.3 x 11.4 x 26.7 inches
- Weight: 9.38 lbs.
Things we like:
-
It’s expandable for up to 15% of extra storage
-
The interior is made from the durable 150-Denier Polyester
Things we don't like:
-
The quality of the suitcase reflects its price
Where to buy AmazonBasics Hardside Expandable:
Amazon
Where to buy Briggs & Riley Baseline Softside:
Amazon
You’ll have a hard time finding a more spacious checked luggage than the Baseline Softside model released by Briggs & Riley. Available in 5 sizes and 3 colors, it’s a great find for everyone looking to update their traveling gear.
The 1680-Denier Ballistic Nylon gives this suitcase an edge over others because, well, it incorporates the qualities that other pieces of luggage don’t have. We’re talking about wear-, tear- and water-resistance combined with dirt-repelling properties.
The fiberglass frame adds to the mix of durability and makes the suitcase that much more lightweight, flexible, and reliable.
The patented CX expansion-compression is the star element here – it helps to increase the capacity of the travel bag by 26% while keeping the content safe and sound. Now you know why this checked luggage is so highly priced.
- Type: Soft Shell
- Material: 1680-Denier Ballistic Nylon
- Capacity: ~90 liters
- Dimensions: 28 x 20 x 11 inches
- Weight: 11.9 lbs.
Things we like:
-
The aircraft-grade aluminum handle has 4 stop heights to fit everyone’s height
-
The YKK zippers have Nylon zipper teeth that are tamper-resistant
Things we don't like:
-
The most expensive suitcase on this list
Where to buy Briggs & Riley Baseline Softside:
Amazon
Where to buy Level8 Elegance Textured Set 20” and 26”:
Level8cases.com
We know how stressful it is to look for that hard shell luggage that best suits your needs. We tested the Level8 Elegance Textured Luggage Set 20″ and 26″, and these two might put an end to your search.
With massive 38-liter and 88-liter capacities, these hard shell luggage from Level8 can carry your entire life. Their solid construction can also keep them safe from impacts.
Both the 20″ and 26″ Level8 Elegance Textured Luggage are also waterproof.
It sounds like a steal, right?
Let’s unpack this 2-in1 hard shell luggage set and weigh every detail.
- Material: Germany Bayer Makrolon Polycarbonate Hard Shell, Polyester Lining, Mesh Divider, YKK zippers, TSA 3-Digit Code Lock, Rubber-Padded Double-Wheel, Aluminum Alloy Telescopic Handle with Plastic Grip
- 26” Luggage Dimension: 27.6” x 16.1” x 13.2” with 88-liter capacity, weighing 10.89 lbs.
- 20” Luggage Dimension: 14.6” x 9.3” x 21.5” with 38-liter capacity, weighing 7.7 lbs.
Things we like:
-
With a solid and durable build
-
Sleek look
-
Water- and scratch-proof
-
It’s easy to sort your things since there are dividers, pockets, and straps
-
Rubber-padded double-wheel with 360-degree rotations makes it easy and quiet to roll
-
Trolley handle has 4 height levels
-
Extra side and top grip helps when you need to conquer stairs
-
With lifetime warranty
Things we don't like:
-
Side bumper feet are only on the left side
-
It won't give you any packing allowance beyond capacity
Where to buy Level8 Elegance Textured Set 20” and 26”:
Level8cases.com
Where to buy COOLIFE Luggage 3-Piece Set:
Amazon
If you’re a family of three or four planning on taking an international trip soon, the COOLIFE Luggage 3-Piece Set might just be what you need. Available in 10+ colors, you’re guaranteed to find the option that’s right for you.
We like that although the luggage is lightweight, it’s still sturdy. The impact-resistant hard shell and the 100% ABS material make it almost bulletproof.
The interior compartment has a zipped part and the division with compression straps. This allows you to organize your stuff in a way that doesn’t cause wrinkles in your clothes or dents in your accessories.
You can easily operate the telescoping handle thanks to the integrated push button. Paired with sturdy wheels that can turn in any direction, you shouldn’t have any issues using this luggage set for years.
- Type: Hard Shell
- Material: 100% ABS
- Capacity: 16 inches: 30L (only in the family set), 20 inches: 38L, 24 inches: 60L, 28 inches: 93L
- Dimensions: 16 inches: 19" x 12.75" x 8.25"(only in the family set), 20 inches: 22.5" x 15.5" x 9.25", 24 inches: 26.5"x18.25" x 10.25", 28 inches: 30.25" x 20.75" x 11.75”
- Weight: 16 inches: 4.7lbs (only in the family set), 20 inches: 6.3lbs, 24 inches: 7.9lbs, 28 inches: 10lbs
Things we like:
-
The spinner wheels allow you to move your suitcase in any direction
-
The 2-year warranty provides additional protection
-
The telescopic handle is easy to operate
Things we don't like:
-
The light colors can get dirty fairly quickly with frequent use
Where to buy COOLIFE Luggage 3-Piece Set:
Amazon
American Tourister Fieldbrook luggage bundle is a real-time bargain for those who are on a budget and aren’t willing to splurge on a 3- or 4-piece set. This 600-Denier Polyester deal features a lightweight yet durable construction that enables effortless mobility.
The smooth wheels allow you to roll luggage without any obstacles, while the push-button locking handle makes the transportation process that much easier.
The set consists of a 25-inch upright bag, a 21-inch upright carry-on, a wheeled duffel, and a boarding bag. This combo should suffice lengthy family trips that come with multiple stuff requirements.
Backed by the 10-year limited warranty, you are guaranteed to get good use out of your luggage bundle.
- Type: Soft Shell
- Material: 600-Denier Polyester
- Quantity: 4
- Dimensions: 26 x 16.5 x 8 inches (checked bag)
- Weight: 16.71 lbs.
Things we like:
-
Reinforced corners protect luggage from harsh travel conditions
-
Has an affordable price tag
Things we don't like:
-
The duffel bag lacks an extendable handle
Where to buy Samsonite Upright Wheeled Carry-On:
Amazon
Meet your ultimate business trip companion designed by the travelers’ favorite brand Samsonite, upright carry-on luggage. This travel bag not only fits under the majority of the airplane seats but is also easily accessible from each of its four sides.
It combines Nylon and Polyester that give it strength and durability and inline skate wheels that help minimize frictional resistance.
The ergonomic handle with a push-button can be retracted and secured in place for easy maneuverability. The wetpak zippered compartment allows you to separate your damp or dirty clothes from the clean ones – an often overlooked feature that proves times and again to be useful.
With the smart sleeve back, you won’t have any issues placing the bag over the handle of your checked suitcase.
- Type: Soft Shell
- Material: Nylon, Polyester
- Capacity: ~38 liters
- Dimensions: 12.5 x 9 x 14 inches
- Weight: 5.07 lbs.
Things we like:
-
The quick stash exterior pocket gives you quick-access storage space for storing smaller items
-
The skate wheels feature Polyurethane and ball bearings that allow you to smoothly roll the luggage across airports and train stations
Things we don't like:
-
Not suitable for hefty loads
Where to buy Samsonite Upright Wheeled Carry-On:
Amazon
Bundles and sets are known for providing the best value, and Rockland Melbourne hardside luggage set is the proof. Built from the sturdy ABS, it is super lightweight and durable.
The right spinner wheels help the luggage rotate 360-degrees on every terrain, while the bulletproof exterior protects your essentials from getting damaged during traveling. The integrated telescopic handle can be conveniently stowed away when not in use and extended when needed to maneuver the suitcase.
The 2 extra inches in depth allow you to maximize the number of things you can bring on board with you.
If you are lucky enough to get your hands on this travel luggage set when it’s on sale, consider it the deal of all deals.
- Type: Hard Shell
- Material: ABS
- Wheels: 8
- Dimensions: 28 x 17 x 12 inches (the biggest)
- Weight: 10 lbs. (the biggest)
Things we like:
-
You can choose either a 3- or a 2-piece set depending on your needs
-
The quality of the wheels is great
Things we don't like:
-
The colors are off
Best Suitcases: BUYING GUIDE
For the majority of people, a suitcase is a one- or a two-time purchase that is meant to last a lifetime. Because of that, the stakes are high.
To make a good investment and not have to replace a travel luggage every couple of years, you have to choose it wisely. Scroll through the next focal points we consider to be the most important when deciding which suitcase or travel luggage to buy.
Type of Travel Luggage
The number one decision every traveler makes is whether they want to buy a hard-side or a soft-side travel luggage. While it seems like an easy choice to make, there are a few things to keep in mind about them both.
Hard Shell Travel Luggage
Travel Luggage with a hard shell has gradually become everyone’s favorite for a good reason – it’s the most protective suitcase of all. As a result, you can expect it to last you a lot longer (if it doesn’t easily get scuffed up) as the chances of theft are extremely low. It’s also super lightweight and often waterproof.
Soft Shell Travel Luggage
Travel Luggage with a soft shell, on the other hand, is an oldie but goldie. Having been around the longest, it’s a reliable piece of baggage that allows you to fit a lot more stuff than the hard-sided suitcase. It might not look as chic and stylish as a hard shell suitcase, but it’s trusted by many generations because of the ease of maneuverability and a multitude of exterior pockets.
Suitcase Wheels
The second decision you’ll have to make is the number of many wheels you want to roll your suitcase on – two or four. While the most sought-after luggage is the one with four wheels, there are plenty of advantages to suitcases with two wheels too.
Surely, the four wheels with 360-degree rotation are convenient – with them, you can push and pull your luggage in any direction. They are also easier to maneuver in tight spaces and tend to not exhaust you as much.
That being said, four-wheeled suitcases are prone to rolling away from you in the event of a minor ground incline. Besides, they are easier to break off because of their isolated-from-the-body-of-the-luggage construction.
Suitcases with two wheels don’t have the same issues – they are well equipped for every kind of terrain. Apart from that, they are easy to pull behind without making you worry about them getting stuck on bumpy sidewalks.
The biggest downside to the two-wheeled luggage, however, is that they can be unsteady and heavy to roll. This can be a big deal-breaker for those traveling with more than just one suitcase.
Suitcase Material
Both hard shell and soft shell suitcases are made to last, which is translated through the quality of the material they’re built from. The only difference you’ll notice is the type of material used for the making of each of them.
Hard-sided travel luggage are made from either Aluminum, Polycarbonate, Polypropylene, or ABS. These materials ensure the sturdiness of the luggage that plays a huge role in preventing them from getting scratches and dents.
In contrast, soft-sides suitcases are constructed from Polyester, Cordura Nylon, or Ballistic Nylon, all of which are durable enough to withstand harsh handling. To find out whether the suitcase you have your eyes on is made from a good-quality fabric, check the Denier number next to the material. The higher it is, the more durable.
Travel Luggage Dimensions
The size of your suitcase will largely depend on the type of trips you are planning to use it for. Normally, carry-on luggage will do for a short trip that doesn’t last more than a week, whereas checked luggage is best suited for longer trips that require you to bring many changes of clothes, shoes, and other knick-knacks.
Keep in mind that carry-on suitcases are the easiest to carry – both during your trips and in airports. In addition, you won’t have to worry about the baggage restrictions imposed by airlines as you are more than likely to meet them.
Learn more about Carry-on Luggage Size restrictions for these US Airlines.
Suitcase Details
All things being equal, there are a couple of more points to consider when deciding what luggage to pick. We’re talking handles, zips, and locks – the details that can’t be overlooked.
While none of them is more important than the other, you ought to pay particularly close attention to the handles of the suitcase. Handles that are both telescopic and ergonomic are a must – they ensure your hands don’t get tired too quickly and prevent them from developing sores.
Another detail to evaluate is the availability of TSA-friendly zips and lockers. It’s a safer route to choose a suitcase with zips and lockers that won’t raise any suspicion from TSA officials when your luggage is being scanned. Let’s face it – no one wants to have their suitcase opened when they are already in a hurry to that closing gate.
If you already started planning your travels you can let these Travel Quotes inspire your trip.
If you already have a suitcase or a travel luggage set or you just bought one, leave a comment in the comment section below and share your experience with it.
Frequently asked questions
Allegedly, the best travel luggage is the one that combines the highest-quality materials and hi-tech features. Besides, it also has to be sturdy enough to withstand harsh exploitation during loading and unloading.
While there are countless suitcases of this kind on the market, not all of them are equally good. Here are the ones that stand out from the crowd:
- Best Hard-Shell: AmazonBasics Hardside Expandable Carry-On Luggage
- Spacious Checked Luggage: Briggs & Riley Baseline Softside
- Very Solid and Durable: Level8 Elegance Textured Set 20” and 26”
- Best 3-Piece Set: COOLIFE Luggage 3-Piece Set
- Best Large Checked: American Tourister Fieldbrook Softside
- Best Soft-Shell: TravelPro Platinum Elite Softside
- Best Underseater: Samsonite Upright Wheeled Carry-On
- Best Rolling Duffel: Travelers Club Xpedition
- Customers’ Favorite: Kenneth Cole Reaction Travel Suitcase
Read full reviews of each travel luggage on Outoria.COM by clicking the links above.
Contrary to the belief of some newbie travelers, the question of whether you should opt for hard shell or soft shell luggage has nothing to do with airlines. But it does have everything to do with your personal preferences.
For the ultimate flexibility and the ease of squeezing a suitcase into tight spaces, soft-sided luggage is your best bet. For the highest level of protection and the weightless ease of transporting the items from A to B, hard-sided luggage is the best way to go.
Wheels tend to be an overlooked feature when researching travel luggage. This is a mistake, as they can make or break your trip depending on their quality and durability.
To not regret your choice of luggage, take a look at these suitcases with heavy-duty wheels that won’t break at the sign of a bumpy terrain:
- SwissGear Sion Carry-On Luggage
- Travelers Club Xpedition Rolling Duffel Suitcase
- American Tourister Fieldbrook Softside Luggage Set
- TravelPro Platinum Softside Checked Suitcase
- Briggs & Riley Baseline Softside Large Checked Luggage
Read full reviews of each suitcase on Outoria.COM by clicking the links above.
Whether you bring a duffel bag, a travel backpack, or a carry-on suitcase with you on board, it’s important to take into consideration the airline’s standards regarding the permitted size of the luggage.
For the majority of airlines, the standard size of a travel bag when traveling internationally is around 27 x 21 x 12 inches with a 50-pound weight limit.
To get more accurate dimensions, consult with the airline you’re planning on traveling with.
Just like with most of the high-end items, an expensive suitcase is considered to be an investment – particularly, in your future travel experiences.
It is a guarantee that even if your flight gets canceled, the hotel you booked turns out to be a disaster, and the weather forecast isn’t promising, you at least can rely on your four- or two-wheeled travel buddy.
This doesn’t mean, however, that more affordable suitcases are a bad investment (there are numerous cheap-ish travel bags that can compete with high-priced suitcases) – it’s simply a better assurance in your travel gear’s quality and durability.
Comments
very helpful, thanks for the share.