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The Best Aluminum Suitcases for Every Trip

What we’ve tested, researched, and recommend to suit various budgets and travel needs.

aluminum suitcases

By Evan Malachosky , Justin Fenner , and Ben Bowers

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

Aluminum suitcases are a travel conundrum. In some ways, they offer what every hard-sided suitcase buyer cares about – i.e., the ultimate amount of protection for their personal items. Many are also very repairable, allowing them to last for decades. 

But these unique bags are also tremendously impractical and expensive compared to  other luggage options . The truth is, most aluminum suitcases ding easily, aren’t expandable, and weigh a hefty 9 to 12 pounds.

Still, denying their  aesthetic appeal  and sense of substance in a world increasingly drowning in plastics is difficult. 

If you’re interested in traveling with an aluminum suitcase on your next adventure, here are the carry-on options we’ve tested, researched, and recommend to suit various budgets and use cases.

Aluminum Suitcases We Recommend

Best Overall

The Most Iconic Aluminum Suitcase

Best Affordable Option with an Aluminum Look

A Truly All-Aluminum Option

Best for Charging Modern Devices

Affordable Option Made from Aluminum

Most Distinctive

A More Durable Option

How We Tested Our Aluminum Suitcase Recommendations

sterling pacific

Our tester took several suitcases all over the continental US — from Austin, Texas to New York City. They assessed how easy the suitcases were to pack, but also roll through security, lift into the overhead bin, lock, load back into the car and unload, too. They also surveyed how the suitcases faired after a fall down a luggage carousel or after being pushed into the rear of a luggage hold.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here .

The Best Overall Aluminum Suitcase

away the carry on aluminum edition

Away The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition

  • Excellent value and price, plus free shipping and returns
  • Has hidden pockets and comes with a laundry bag
  • Simple and stylish design
  • Divider easily becomes misshapen through use
  • Wheels aren’t as solid as other options on this list
  • $645 at Away

If you’re a serial over-packer, turn to the roomy interior of Away’s The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition , a heavy-duty option that’ll earn its fair share of dents and dings. Because Away sells directly to consumers, they can drop costs by cutting out the middlemen. That makes Away an excellent value.

Our tester found the hidden pockets and included laundry bag helpful, and the bag comes case comes with a complimentary leather name tag, too. Plus, these wheels are some of the best of the bunch, but not quite as sturdy as Sterling Pacific’s.

away suitcase

As for packing it, it’s easy to do, but it’d be easier if both sides were identical, our tester says. The mesh, tube-formed divider eventually becomes misshapen, especially if you overpack it a few times. The other side, on the other hand, stays true to form, and helps keep the contents packed tightly down.

For a deeper look at the larger version, read our full review of the Away Large Carry-On .

tech

Rimowa Classic Cabin Carry-On

  • Built to last, thanks to its grooved aluminum body and ball-bearing mounted wheels
  • Interior dividers help compress excess cargo
  • Network includes warranty service from in-hotel concierges
  • Spacious and roomy for packing however you’d like
  • Telescopic handle doesn't feel on par with the rest of the suitcase
  • Despite its price, it’s still prone to dings and scratches
  • $1,430 at Rimowa

This is the status suitcase. Recognizable by its ridged aluminum exterior, Rimowa’s Original Cabin Carry-On is a go-to for first-class, full-time and famous travelers. (You’ve probably seen plenty of touring musicians with theirs covered in stickers. It’s the cool thing to do.) The German brand dates back the late 19th century and production still takes place in Cologne, where the company is headquartered. It is now, however, owned by luxury conglomerate LVMH.

What does that mean? Well, the quality hasn’t changed, but the conversations around the suitcases have. LVMH elevated the brand, making it as much a cultural touchpoint as it is a celebrated titan of consumer product design. You’ll appreciate its all-aluminum exterior, but the handles, which are hard plastic, feel lackluster in comparison.

rimowa

But Rimowa’s aluminum suitcases are well-regarded for good reason. The shiny silver cases can take a beating, but they show their bruises boldly. This look’s not for everyone, especially if they bought the $1,400 suitcase for how it looks mint , fresh out of the box upon delivery.

The dents and dings, though, are a good thing, a constant reminder your case is actually working. These dents could’ve been cracks if you were rolling a polycarbonate option. As such, think of aluminum, despite its connotations, as the ultimate choice: a material meant to be put to the test, because it’ll pass with flying colors.

Read our full review of the Rimowa Original Cabin Carry-On .

An Affordable Option with Aluminum-Aesthetics

Monos Carry-On Hybrid Aluminum suitcase standing on ground with white background

Monos Hybrid Carry-On

  • Boasts plenty of scuff protection and corner bumpers
  • Solid styling and available in multiple colors
  • Telescopic handle has four height settings, including one appropriate for children
  • Easily acquires scuffs
  • Not actually made from Aluminum
  • $325.00 at Monos

(Shhhhh… this bag is actually polycarbonate. How else could it be this affordable?) OK, the secret’s out. This option isn’t aluminum and as such, we debated whether it should be even included in this list. However, it has an aluminum frame. The front and back plates are cut from aerospace-grade polycarbonate, which Monos says proves just as indestructible. Everything’s tonal here, too, meaning all aluminum-colored everything.

Our tester says it’s nearly indistinguishable, though, and despite only taking it on a few trips so far, they haven’t run into any issues, even when they were forced to check it at the gate. It arrived with fewer literal dents, but it did show signs of damage nonetheless: a few dark-colored scuffs.

A Truly All-Aluminum Suitcase

cabin travel case

Sterling Pacific 35L Cabin Travel Case

  • Made from 100% Aluminum
  • Minimal two-wheel design reduces the number of possible failure points
  • Rectangular design makes it easy to pack
  • Attractive, eye-catching design and leather handles
  • Quickly attracts scuffs
  • Very expensive
  • Two-wheel design can be more of a hassle to roll vs. four-wheel options
  • $1,950 at sterlingpacific.com
  • $1,950 at Amazon

Unlike many options on this list which liberally integrate plastic into their designs, Sterling Pacific’s 35L Cabin Travel Case is made from 100 percent aluminum: an aerospace-grade aluminum body, reinforced aluminum corners, aluminum wheel housings and an aluminum trolley. It also stands out for its two wheel design and unusual shape: a slender lid offsets a deep trunk, where you can stow quite a lot. But its deviations from the norm, if you will, aren’t without reason. The two-wheel design reduces the number of possible failure points, and the rectangular shape makes it easier to pack.

Sure, it’s a little wonky-looking, but it was easy to adjust to after a few rolls, our tester says, plus the suitcase is less likely to snag on a cracked sidewalk or tile floor, like four-wheeled designs do.

sterling pacific

The $1,950 suitcase is extremely expensive and may not come with the luxury recognition of a brand like Rimowa , for example, but that’s also part of its appeal. Sterling Pacific is carving its own lane, catering to elite travelers with high standards — and staying with them through the life of their suitcase, offering a lifetime warranty and endless complimentary repairs.

Read our full review of the Sterling Pacific 35L Cabin Travel Case .

A Great Aluminum Suitcase for Charging Modern Devices

aluminum suitcase

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On Max: Aluminum Edition

  • The shell, wraparound frame, corner caps and hinges are all made from aluminum alloys
  • Full grain leather handles
  • Very smooth, quiet wheels
  • Antimicrobial odor-fighting lining
  • Has built-in USB-C and USB-A charging ports
  • Thinner aluminum shell
  • Battery must be removed before each flight
  • $695.00 at arloskye.com

Founded by former execs from luggage specialists Tumi and Louis Vuitton, Arlo Skye brings luxurious touches to its approach-ably priced bags. Its aluminum carry-on features an antimicrobial lining, sports a built-in USB-C and -A charging port and some of the quietest wheels of all the bags on the market, reviewers say. It also boasts the largest capacity of any bag on this list, is available in champagne and all-black aluminum color ways too, and features more parts made from aluminum as well as premium-feeling full grain leather handles. One of our testers wished the aluminum shell was slightly thicker, though, which would help deter dents. They were upset that the suitcase returned from its first journey with a sizable wound, even though that’s a part of the art of aluminum suitcases.

An Affordable Option Actually Made from Aluminum

level8 aluminum carry on

Level8 Gibralter Aluminum Carry-On

  • Mesh interior pocket divider
  • Handles made of metal alloy, not plastic
  • Noiseless handles with slow release to prevent pinching
  • Line-free exterior that looks different
  • Some users say internal straps broke after a few uses
  • Several users say its frame and depth is not large enough
  • $430 at level8cases.com
  • $429 at Amazon

Aerospace-grade aluminum magnesium alloy is a material known for its lightweight and its ability to resist corrosion and other damage. As such, it makes for an ideal frame for any suitcase. Level8 applies it to its zipper-less lock closure suitcase, which has super-quiet wheels and an alloy handle, too.

The interior dividers were identical, too, which made packing easy, but they can be removed as well if you prefer to pack without them. Our tester found despite the slight frame of this suitcase, it still packed quite a bit. This bag is also the most affordable option on our list that’s actually made from an aluminum magnesium alloy, instead of using plastic to merely mimic aluminum’s metallic look. To some degree, you’ll get what you pay for quality-wise, but we appreciate that Level8 includes a 4-piece packing cube set and suitcase cover protector with the purchase price.

The Most Distinctive Aluminum Suitcase

aluminum suitcase

Tumi 19 Degree Continental Carry-On

  • Smooth, 360-degree wheels
  • Unique style makes it stand out from others on this list
  • Option for Monogramming
  • Can be too small for longer trips
  • Heavy for its size
  • $1,295 at Tumi
  • $1,295 at Nordstrom

There’s a kinetic beauty to the fluid lines of Tumi’s aluminum luggage — it looks like it’s moving even when it’s standing still. With a 35L capacity, it can comfortably hold everything you need for a few days away, but not much longer, and that’s the primary complaint from reviewers. That and this suitcase’s weight.

It’s fairly heavy for a small-sized suitcase, but that helps it roll smoother, a perk plenty praised online. If you want the lightest suitcase, this isn’t it. This suitcase does also technically have the shortest listed warranty of the options on this list (along with Zero Haliburton), but then again, it’s hard to know how some of the newer luggage brands will follow through on their promises, and Tumi has been in business since 1975. The bottom line is if you want something different from a brand that’s made luggage longer than any other company on this list save Rimowa, Tumi’s the right fit for you.

A More Durable Aluminum Suitcase Option

aluminum suitcases

Zero Haliburton Pursuit Aluminum International Carry-On

  • Solid, heavy-duty construction
  • Comes with plenty of internal dividers and pockets
  • Heftier dividers would better support packing
  • Distracting blue-hued handles
  • $1,045 at Zero Haliburton
  • $1,045 at Amazon

Zero Halliburton is one of a handful of American-made brands whose wares have been to space. Its latest edition features the same hard-sided protection as the bags it started making in 1938 and carries a 5-year warranty.

Reviewers like that the suitcase has handles on all sides, making lifting it into an overhead bin or up off of a luggage carousel easy. But some cited the coated handles as, well, a little too distracting from the silver suitcase. Many say it’d fare better if the handles were leather or even silver plastic, not the distracting, shiny blue hue. As for packing it, heftier, more helpful dividers would’ve been nice, they say, to keep everything in its correct place.

One Bag to Be Wary Of

Anyone researching aluminum luggage will likely come across the  MVST. Select Trek Aluminum Suitcase . The luggage looks quite similar to the iconic Rimowa Classic Cabin carry-on included in this guide but costs a mere $395, making it immediately appealing to many. 

While we have yet to test the bag directly, there is  enough online chatter from previous customers  to indicate the bag may be too good to be true. 

Previous buyers complain of not being notified about long shipping delays and more concerning quality control issues such as broken wheels and hinges after only a few trips. 

The Main Benefits of Traveling with Aluminum Suitcases

rimowa luggage hard shell

  • Aluminum suitcases tend to protect packed contents better and won’t crack like polycarbonate suitcases or tear like soft-sided options.
  • Aluminum suitcases are repairable, meaning they can have a much longer usable lifespan if they are maintained well. Many polycarbonate suitcases aren’t repairable at all and will wind up in the trash sooner.
  • Aluminum suitcases will patina overtime as you take on adventures, creating a unique look that’s all your own.

The Main Downsides of Using Aluminum Suitcases

rimowa luggage hard shell

  • Aluminum suitcases are usually more expensive than similarly-sized hard-sided plastic luggage.
  • Aluminum suitcases will show dings and dents over time.
  • Aluminum suitcases are often heavier than plastic hard-sided suitcases.
  • Aluminum suitcases cannot be overpacked, even more so than other hard-sided bags made of plastic.
  • Aluminum suitcases tend to be more flashy and may draw unwanted attention to your belongings while traveling.

A Quick Word on What Aluminum Luggage Warranties Actually Cover

Many luggage companies proudly tout lifetime warranties, but in most cases, these lifetime warranties apply only to defects that may result in critical components breaking.

They do not cover the dings, dents, and scratches a piece of aluminum luggage will invariably pick up over time, which may look alarming but are just cosmetic issues.

A Handy List of Approved Carry-On Sizes for Major U.S. Domestic Airlines

Approved Carry-on sizing reference table last updated 4/9/2024

To learn more about how big (or heavy) your carry-on can be, refer to our broader guide to the best carry-on suitcases for every trip .

man using check in airport counter

Related Topics

Watch CBS News

The best aluminum luggage in 2024 is built to last, no matter your destination

By Brittany Vincent , Leah Groth , Kaylyn McKenna

Updated on: April 23, 2024 / 3:04 PM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

Woman pulling aluminum luggage

With Memorial Day travel around the corner, it's time to upgrade your luggage to something built to last. You might want to think about splurging on aluminum bags over polycarbonate or softsided options. Though it's more expensive to do so upfront, investing in one of these sleek, durable, and stylish metal suitcases will keep your belongings protected trip after trip.

This Memorial Day, treat yourself to a high-quality aluminum suitcase that will withstand years of travel ahead. Like buying home goods that last for generations, the splurge is worth it to keep your belongings safe in sleek style trip after trip.

The 5 best aluminum luggage options you can buy in 2024

  • Best aluminum luggage in 2024 : Rimowa Classic aluminum luggage
  • Best midrange aluminum luggage: Away The Aluminum collection

Best aluminum luggage for organized packing: Tumi 19 Degree aluminum check-in

Best large aluminum carry-on: zero halliburton continental aluminum carry-on, best zipperless aluminum suitcase: level8 gibraltar aluminum carry-on, best luxury aluminum luggage: sterling pacific 35l cabin travel case, best smart aluminum luggage: arlo skye the frame carry-on max: aluminum edition, the most popular aluminum luggage for 2024: rimowa classic aluminum luggage.

rimowa-check-in-l.jpg

Rimowa pioneered the aluminum luggage trend , introducing the bag style to the market in the 1930s. The high-end, celeb-favorite Rimowa Classic Cabin S suitcase features TSA-approved locks, a height-adjustable flex divider and a telescopic handle. And like all of Rimowa's designs, it has grooves inspired by the first all-metal airplane.

Aside from its quality materials and construction, one of the greatest benefits of buying a piece of Rimowa luggage is peace of mind. The brand includes a lifetime guarantee on all new suitcases, covering all functional aspects (but excluding wear and tear). Rimowa also offers in-store repairs and even in-hotel repairs at participating international locations, if you need a fix while traveling.

You'll want to snag this bag thanks to its sturdy aluminum construction protects your belongings much better than soft-sided or polycarbonate luggage. This suitcase comes with a lifetime warranty.

Rimowa suitcases come in a lot of shapes and sizes, materials and colors. Size and color combinations vary per collection, but most come in a few cabin (carry-on) and checked luggage options. There's also a trunk, an extra large piece of luggage designed for trips of two weeks or more. 

Some of our favorite aluminum pieces from the brand include: 

  • Rimowa Original, $1,375 and up
  • Rimowa Classic, $1,450 and up
  • Rimowa Hybrid, $1,075 and up
  • Rimowa Essential, $900 and up

The best midrange aluminum luggage: Away The Aluminum collection

away-aluminum.jpg

Away Travel offers sleek, functional suitcases at a reasonable price point. Jet setters will appreciate the easy-to-set TSA-approved lock and smooth-rolling spinner wheels.  Away's upgraded aluminum edition  offers a more wallet-friendly alternative to Rimowa with the same features as the durable polycarbonate bags that put the brand on the map. 

Away also offers a warranty that covers damage to the shell, wheels, handles, zippers and other functional elements of the suitcases. This provides added peace of mind when splurging on pricier suitcases.

The aluminum version of Away luggage comes in four sizes: two carry-ons and two check-ins. It's available in three metal tones: silver, onyx black and rose gold. The smaller carry-on weighs 10.1 pounds, the medium-sized  one weighs 10.6 pounds, the smaller check-in  is 13.3 pounds and the  larger version  is 16 pounds.

Away's 360-degree spinner wheels make these bags easy to roll through the airport. The suitcases feature a dual-lock for added security. The carry-on fits in most airlines' overhead bins.

tumi-aluminum.jpg

Tumi crafted this sleek suitcase out of lightweight aluminum. Features include TSA-approved locks, smooth swivel wheels and an impact-resistant telescoping handle for all-around easy maneuverability. Interior highlights include compression straps, a removable garment sleeve and lots of zipper compartments for organization. 

Worried about losing your luggage? As part of the Tumi Tracer program, the bag includes a 20-digit number for easy identification. Plus its two TSA-integrated combination locks will keep your belongings safe and secure.

It also features a durable aluminum exterior and sturdy extension handles, plus retractable side and top carry handles for easy loading and carrying. Available in four colors: silver, matte back, dark denim and textured blush.

zero-94224-05-silver-dragon2-wb.jpg

The luxurious 22-inch, 12.5-pound Zero Halliburton Continental suitcase fits overhead on most domestic flights. It boasts a smooth-moving wheel system trademarked by the brand. A three-stage telescopic handle, TSA-compliant lock system, leather accents and a roomy interior round out the features that make the brushed metal suitcase a keeper. Its smaller size also makes it a great choice for road trips. 

The suitcase also offers plenty of storage and internal compartments to keep all of your belongings organized. The Zero Halliburton Continental aluminum carry-on features a   zip separator, wide-panel-tie down straps with a mesh separator to hold clothes in place and a closure compression panel with an extra mesh pocket to hold smaller items. Available in silver, black and bronze.

One of the reasons we love this suitcase is that it features rubber-lined 360-degree wheels for improved ease of use, traction and shock absorption. A built-in TSA-approved combination lock keeps your belongings secure. Also comes with a magnetic leather ID tag and free monogramming.

level8.jpg

Crafted out of aerospace-grade aluminum magnesium alloy, the Gibraltar aluminum carry-on, available in silver and gray, weighs 10 pounds and fits neatly in the overhead bin of an airplane or the trunk of a car. 

Keyless and zipper-less, the sleek suitcase boasts TSA-approved locks and 360-degree durable spinner wheels. It comes with a four-piece organizer bag set.

You'll love this suitcase as it's made with scratch-resistant material and reinforced with metal corner protectors for long-lasting durability. It also includes removable dividers for flexible packing. 

You can breathe a sigh of relief when buying from Level8 as well, as this bag comes with a lifetime warranty. It's also relatively inexpensive for aluminum luggage, so you can get a high-quality piece for less.

Sterling Pacific 35L Cabin Travel Case

Do you want aluminum luggage? Then you want Sterling Pacific. The entirety of this bag is crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum, and you'll pay a premium for it. It also has aluminum wheel housings, an aluminum frame and corners, and an aluminum handle. 

This luxurious bag is quite expensive, but you know exactly what you're getting - and you can see in its design that it's roomy, high-quality, and easy to wheel around with you.

It has two wheels instead of four (a curious design) and a slender yet spacious silhouette along with reinforced leather handles so you can carry it if need be. It's surprisingly lightweight at just 11.5 pounds, and it's super eye-catching. 

The trunk is deep enough to stow just about everything you need for time away from home, and you know your belongings will be in good hands when you put them in this striking piece of luggage. You might be spending a lot to bring this suitcase home, but Sterling Pacific does offer a lifetime warranty and free repairs should anything happen to this pricey piece. 

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On Max: Aluminum Edition

If you're often caught out with a low smartphone battery when you travel, this aluminum alloy carry-on is a great option for you. Arlo Skye brings modern convenience to reliable construction with this piece.

This aluminum bag comes with built-in USB-C and USB-A charging ports so you can juice up your smartphone and other devices with a portable charger. It also has an antimicrobial lining inside tucked away from its aluminum shell.

With leather handles, super smooth wheels, and a massive capacity of 45 L, this bag can charge your phone in under 30 minutes, pack a full week's worth of clothes and other goodies or more, and get you to your destination in style. It also won't break the bank. 

This is one aluminum hardside bag that you'll want to keep at the top of your list if convenience is important to you.  

Why choose aluminum luggage?

One of the biggest allures to aluminum luggage is its luxurious look, but there are more benefits to ownership. Aluminum is less likely to crack over time compared to polycarbonate, making it a better long-term choice.

Aluminum luggage comes at a higher price than polycarbonate and softsided luggage. But because aluminum luggage is a luxury purchase, many brands offer a luxury level of service. Rimowa (and some  Rimowa alternatives ) offers in-store repairs and even in-hotel repairs at participating international locations, plus warranty coverage for any parts that may break.

What are some drawbacks to aluminum luggage?

One main drawback (aside from price) is that aluminum bags often weigh more – expect  carry-ons  to weigh around 10 pounds and  checked suitcases  to weigh up to 16.

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Brittany Vincent has been covering gaming, tech, and all things entertainment for 16 years for a variety of online and print publications. She's been covering the commerce space for nearly a decade. Follow her on Twitter at @MolotovCupcake.

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Shop by collection, shop by category, shop by feature, city guides, the carry-on: aluminum edition.

Angled product view of The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition suitcase in Onyx Black

Model is 6'1"

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No more baggage claim mix-ups. Personalize your suitcase by adding up to three letters to make it uniquely yours.

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Free shipping・Free returns

Our Aluminum Carry-On suitcase is our classic Carry-On, leveled up. Sized to fit in the overhead bin of most major airlines and compact enough for train and car trips alike, this suitcase makes a statement wherever it goes.

With a striking aluminum hard shell, 360° spinner wheels that ensure a smooth ride, and our signature interior compression system for effortless packing, this suitcase is built to last.

360° wheels

  • Durable aluminum hard shell
  • Leather details, including a leather luggage tag
  • Dual TSA-approved combination locks for extra safety
  • 360° spinner wheels that ensure a smooth ride
  • Slow-release handles for easy carrying
  • Interior compression system and clip-in pocketed panel to help pack more in
  • Hidden laundry bag to keep dirty clothing separate
  • Meets the airline requirements for most major airlines as carry-on luggage

Exterior measurements  21.5" x 13.5" x 9" Interior measurements  19" x 12.5" Weight  10.1 lbs Capacity  35L Measurements include wheels.

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TSA-approved combination lock

We want you to love everything about getting Away—which is why we offer free returns and exchanges on unused items for the first 100 days. We can only accept returns on unused items, so please gently test them out at home before traveling with them. Learn more about our return policy .

Our suitcases are guaranteed by a limited warranty that covers any damage to the shell, wheels, handles, zippers, and many other functional elements of our luggage. Learn more about our warranty .

Keep in mind that while personalized items cannot be returned or exchanged, they are still covered by our warranties. For shipping info, see our FAQ .

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The Best Carry-On Luggage

Alt Text: Three of our top picks for carry-on luggage, shown side by side, an Away The Carry-On, a Travelpro Platinum Elite, and a Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential.

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

Traveling well is not always easy. Keeping your suitcase with you when you fly not only protects your belongings from loss or damage but may help you avoid extra fees as well.

If you decide to do so, you need a good carry-on bag.

Over the past 10 years, we’ve handled, tested, and traveled with 67 bags from more than 35 brands, and we remain convinced that the Travelpro Platinum Elite offers the best balance of value and quality for most travelers.

It packs five days’ worth of clothes into standard US carry-on dimensions 1 and has premium touches you might expect from a $600 bag at about half the price.

It’s a bag that you can rely on for life, even if it’s damaged by airlines —a rarity at any price.

Everything we recommend

metal travel luggage

Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner

The best soft-sided carry-on.

This spinner carry-on offers the best balance of size, value, reliability, and durability, plus high-end details. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

Buying Options

metal travel luggage

Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard

A bit more capacity and extra wheel durability.

This two-wheeled carry-on bag isn’t as maneuverable, but it offers slightly more space, a garment folder, and larger, more durable wheels.

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Away The Carry-On

The best hard-sided carry-on.

This great-looking and relatively resilient piece of hard-sided luggage has top-of-the-line components—including wheels as smooth-rolling as any we’ve tested.

metal travel luggage

Away The Bigger Carry-On

Slightly more room, but you might get checked.

With more capacity than Away’s standard carry-on, this suitcase is sized appropriately for most flights. On smaller planes, though, you may get gate-checked.

Budget pick

metal travel luggage

Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Lightweight and appealingly inexpensive.

Remarkably well priced for a reputable brand, this is an ideal lightweight pick and provides many features of luggage costing nearly twice as much.

Upgrade pick

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Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

A soft-sided carry-on that fits more in less.

This carry-on bag offers superlative build quality, plenty of expandable room, and a uniquely effective compression system. It’s a buy-it-for-life suitcase.

metal travel luggage

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ 2-Wheel Expandable Carry-On

More room, bigger wheels, less maneuverability.

If you’re willing to give up maneuverability for more space and bigger wheels, this is also a great option.

metal travel luggage

Carl Friedrik The Carry-On

A more luxe hard-sided carry-on.

Luxury touches and a strong polycarbonate and aluminum design give this bag a standout look with exceptional feel and performance. It does cost nearly $200 more than the comparably sized Away bag, though.

metal travel luggage

Yeti Crossroads 22″/35L Wheeled Luggage

A bag built for tough conditions.

A polycarbonate back and rugged wheels make this design suited for rougher travel over difficult surfaces. However, it has a limited warranty, and it’s somewhat unwieldy to handle.

What to consider

Four-wheel bags, aka spinners, are easier to maneuver down tight airplane aisles, but two-wheel bags will always be more durable .

Hard-sided looks better to most people, but soft-sided luggage withstands the bumps and knocks of travel for longer .

Plenty of reputable brands offer lifetime warranties; it’s generally worth paying a little extra for the peace of mind .

Depending on where you travel, you might need to look for specialty luggage sizes .

We’ve also included picks that stood out for their form and individual functionality: an upgrade with best-in-class compression, a pick made of polycarbonate , an upgraded hard-sided case with latch closures and an aluminum frame, a rolling soft-top hybrid , and a budget pick that’s also the best ultra-light suitcase we can find.

Travelpro’s Platinum Elite line of luggage is still our top pick after 10 years of testing. It addresses the concerns of most travelers for an affordable price while offering the best warranty against potential airline damage in the industry (as long as you register the luggage within 120 days of purchase, which you can do in minutes).

The Platinum Elite features smooth-rolling, replaceable wheels, as well as solid and comfortable telescoping handles and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid internal chassis. Travelpro also provides a full catalog of other replaceable parts . Instead of chasing the smart-bag moment, Travelpro added an exterior pocket with a USB pass-through extension that lets you insert your own battery pack for charging your phone. And weighing less than 8 pounds when empty, the Platinum Elite is dead in the center of average weight for bags this size.

In our view, soft-sided luggage lasts longer and shows less wear, but if you prefer the look of a hard-sided bag, Away’s The Carry-On is our choice. Like our other picks, this bag stands out for its high-end components: YKK zippers, smooth-running wheels, and a well-braced handle. Its strong but flexible polycarbonate shell shows scratches—however, after seven years of using the Away Carry-On, our testers have found that it is capable of enduring most of the trials of travel with fewer knocks than other similar models we’ve tested.

Away also makes a slightly larger version of the same model: The Bigger Carry-On . It conforms to carry-on size for most major airliners, but you might be asked to gate-check it on smaller planes.

Similar to our soft-sided picks, this Away bag is backed by a limited lifetime warranty. And though the coverage doesn’t explicitly protect against airline damage, it does apply to any damage that an airline could possibly dish out—specifically, but not limited to, the shell cracking or wheels breaking off.

Some companies have tried to shave off a few pounds from their standard luggage designs to make so-called ultra-light luggage. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner is the best of these bags we’ve seen, and it comes with the pedigree of our top pick but not quite as strong a warranty.

The Maxlite 5 is just over 2 pounds lighter than our top pick—that’s the weight of two or three pairs of jeans. It’s not a huge difference, but if you have trouble lifting luggage over your head and prefer an easier-to-manage suitcase, the Maxlite 5 may be your choice. This bag is also the best one we’ve found under $200, with almost all the benefits of luggage nearly twice the price.

For the more frequent flyer who is willing to invest in a higher-quality bag, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On . Every detail of this bag, from the zippers to the wheels to the wrinkle-resistant suit compartment, is made to the highest standards, and it has a higher proportion of usable space than any other spinner bag we tested.

Briggs & Riley boosts this extra capacity with a ratcheting compression system that easily presses an entire extra outfit (if not more) into the same external dimensions as most other carry-ons. It’s simple, impressive, and unmatched by any other brand’s compression system.

The Expandable Spinner version is also the only spinner luggage model we tested with a built-in garment folder, which helps shirts and pants stay wrinkle-free if you pack them well. If things go awry, Briggs & Riley has a catalog of replaceable parts and a global network of repair centers , as well as a reliable lifetime warranty covering repairs for airline damage.

For some people, Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On may be worth the extra cost. Behind the maturity of Italian leather accents and polish of higher-end Hinomoto wheels, the Carl Friedrik Carry-On bypasses the biggest compromise in most polycarbonate designs: the stitched-in zipper. Incorporating an aluminum frame around the center of the case and two latch locks, it feels comfortingly secure and well structured where other luggage tends to sag or bend away.

There’s a potential catch, however: The flex in a polycarbonate design (and most luggage, incidentally) is its strength. The more robust a piece of luggage becomes—by replacing, for instance, a zipper with an aluminum frame—the greater the chance that if something hits the case hard enough, the frame can bend or break. That said, you need to hit a frame like this with an extreme amount of focused force for that to happen. And Carl Friedrik provides a lifetime warranty that appears to cover airline damage in the event that an airline doesn’t compensate you within 14 days.

The Yeti Crossroads 22”/35L Wheeled Luggage represents the best of a relatively niche type of luggage design. Call it a hybrid model—a blend of a soft-sided luggage on top and hard-sided luggage on the back—that lends itself to fairly specific circumstances. It’s ideal for tough roads, broken streets, and slamming your luggage into uneven curbs with abandon. Do most people need this kind of luggage for their day-to-day travel? Absolutely not, and it can feel heavier than it really is. But if you do, this is the best there is—at least for the moment.

The Yeti Crossroads has everything you might expect from a brand that has built its reputation for over-the-top toughness and durability. The two heavy-duty wheels are among the largest and broadest that we’ve seen. Externally, Yeti blends a polycarbonate shell back with a water-resistant 700-denier nylon front and waterproof zippers. However, Yeti backs its luggage with only a three-year warranty and no mention of airline damage. That’s very limited protection, especially for the conditions this bag was designed for and definitely in comparison with the standards that our other picks set.

The research

Why you should trust us, how we picked and tested, our pick for the best carry-on luggage: travelpro platinum elite, our pick for the best hard-sided carry-on luggage: away the carry-on, budget pick: travelpro maxlite 5 carry-on spinner, upgrade pick for the best carry-on: briggs & riley baseline essential, upgrade pick for the best hard-sided carry-on: carl friedrik the carry-on, also great for tough conditions: yeti crossroads 35l wheeled luggage, other good carry-on luggage, what to look forward to, the competition.

I’ve been covering luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade and have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. Over the years we’ve also spoken with plenty of experts: flight attendants for major airlines, product designers and creative directors for luggage and gear companies, and travel and gear writers. My conversations with these people have helped shape our coverage, and we owe much to their collective knowledge.

Six of the carry-on suitcases we tested, shown lined up.

In the 10 years we’ve been covering this category, luggage has evolved, and so has our thinking about what makes the best carry-on for most people. After spending well over 200 hours doing research and interviews and easily twice that time conducting hands-on testing, we’ve seen a few truths become clear. First, at a certain threshold—roughly over $200—most luggage is fine. It will more than likely get you from point A to point B without incident many times a year for many years. What distinguishes great luggage from everything else is mostly an attention to detail—the quality of a bag’s handle, its wheels, the frame, and stitching—and a company’s guarantee that it will stand behind its product.

Every year we try to refine our testing and find new ways to consider what it means to be the best luggage. We’ve weighed and measured suitcases, comparing our results with company claims. We’ve calculated true internal capacity with hundreds of Ping-Pong balls 2 and some decently complex math for a writer to scratch out. We’ve packed and unpacked more bags than I care to remember. We’ve studied and compared wheel bearings, wheel sizes, pocket counts, pocket quality, the curious subtleties of garment bags that will (or more often won’t) keep your clothes wrinkle-free, the strength of warranties, and repairability.

A person pouring white plastic balls into the Travelpro Platinum Elite Spinner.

We believe that any maximally sized carry-on should be capable of holding enough clothes to last you five days with room to spare for miscellaneous necessities. Most years we aim to have two testers, one male and one female, pack two bags individually as if headed to the same wedding. 3 What we included isn’t representative of a family traveling or a couple splitting a bag, but we erred on the side of bulky, and we hope it gives you a clear idea of how much of your own stuff these bags will hold.

Women's clothes, shoes, and accessories packed for a five-day trip and a fancy gathering.

We looked at how each bag loaded. Was there an easy way to keep smaller items (such as socks and underwear) organized? Did it have compression straps to keep things in place? Were the straps thick enough to avoid creasing the clothes? Just how much would the bag compress? How much room was left over? Once packed, was the bag prone to tipping over?

An obstacle course and mock fuselage in Virgin America’s old training facility.

Over the years I’ve torn bags apart to see how the frames were put together, taken apart wheels, dismantled handles, and more or less treated luggage as poorly as one person could. I’ve wheeled loaded bags around many neighborhoods, looking at how well each bag rolled and how well it handled broken sidewalks, uneven pavement, grass, bricks, dirt, and curbs. I’ve dragged bags up and down two flights of concrete stairs, noting how easy this task was and how much damage the bags sustained. For our finalists, I’ve repeated the torture test along a second, even rougher route because I like the sound that polycarbonate luggage makes when it bounces down cavernous stairwells.

The twenty carry-on suitcases we tested lined up against a fence.

In fall 2023, we asked a panel of paid testers with a wide range of body types, dexterities, and mobilities to examine our picks and share their perspectives. We’ve incorporated their feedback in this review.

Our top picks for the best carry-on luggage, The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21-inch Carry-On Spinner and the Travelpro Platinum Elite 22-inch Carry-On Rollaboard.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner is our pick for a soft-sided carry-on; if you need a little more room, we also recommend the Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard .

It has a history of great performance. Travelpro’s Platinum Elite line has been our top pick for almost every iteration of this guide because it addresses the concerns of most travelers for an affordable price: In addition to smooth-rolling, replaceable wheels, it features solid and comfortable telescoping handles and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid 7.8-pound internal chassis. Travelpro backs it all with a lifetime warranty that covers airline damage and shipping to the repair facility (as long as you register the luggage within 120 days of purchase). Additionally, Travelpro supplies a full catalog of other replaceable parts .

It moves well across most surfaces and through most situations. The spinner bag’s configuration stands out in particular because of its MagnaTrac wheels, which magnetically snap into a forward position when the bag is moving. The small tracking assistance makes a large difference when you’re navigating the Platinum Elite through a crowded airport or down a busy street. It also has an easy-to-use, removable garment bag. After years of testing, we think the superior maneuverability of spinner luggage, along with improvements in manufacturing processes, makes four-wheel bags a better choice for most people. However, if you prefer slightly more packing capacity (the equivalent of squeezing in two more sweatshirts), larger wheels that run more smoothly over rough terrain, and a more protective built-in garment folder, 4 you may appreciate the two-wheeled 22-inch version of the Platinum Elite. One of our paid testers, who’s 6-foot-6, told us that although he could see the appeal of a spinner, “I would still choose the two-wheeler. It has a little more space, and when you’re my size, packing is just so horrible.”

Our pick for best carry-on luggage sitting in front of an American Airlines carry-on size diagram to show that it will fit in the overhead bin.

It’s sized to maximize your space, but you have options. Measuring 23 by 13.5 by 9 inches, the Platinum Elite carry-on bag (in either wheel configuration) hits the upper margins of actual carry-on size limits and could get you gate-checked by an overzealous agent. However, it fits into most standard-size baggage caddies at check-in, including that of American Airlines and United Airlines. I’ve personally traveled with Travelpro carry-ons this size for more than 45,000 miles spread across 50 flights, from regional to long-haul to international routes, and I’ve never had an issue fitting within gate-side luggage sizers. If you’re nervous about getting caught at the gate or often fly in very small regional planes, Travelpro makes a 20-inch Platinum Elite as well as a slimmer international size, but they hold less (naturally) and lack a suiter insert.

An opened Platinum Elite Carry-On Spinner next to its removable garment bag.

It keeps clothes compacted but not creased. Inside, the Platinum Elite has a pair of tie-down straps and two broad panels with pockets that cinch down, similar in design and function to what you’d find in much more expensive Briggs & Riley luggage . Compared with the simple tie-down straps you often find in cheaper luggage, the panels do a great job of keeping things compacted without creasing clothes—a problem we’ve encountered in numerous other bags we’ve tested. Beyond that, the Platinum Elite’s internal organization system is about average. It will be familiar to anyone who has used a suitcase before, which means there’s no learning curve for optimizing the storage capacity. One long mesh pocket sits on one of the bag’s sides, and a smaller removable transparent plastic bag sits on the other side for easy TSA inspection of toiletries.

It’s tough yet flexible. The exterior is made of a hard-wearing nylon fabric, a key feature of all the bags we’ve tested. It hides scuffs and scratches, and it’s much more versatile than hard-sided bags. An expansion zipper lets you increase storage by about 30% in a pinch—although the bag is no longer carry-on compliant at that point. We prefer to use the expansion zipper as something of an ad-hoc compression system: We unzip the expansion zipper while packing the bag and then zip it at the end, tamping everything down tight. The Platinum Elite carry-on also has a variety of convenient exterior pockets, including two in the front, suitable for a sleep mask and other small miscellaneous items, and one on the side for a battery, though it can fit a bit more if necessary. It also has an accordion pocket on the front for magazines and electronic tablets.

It’s well balanced and spacious. This luggage has an 1,856-cubic-inch interior, which we measured using hundreds of Ping-Pong balls . In real-world terms (the needs of Ping-Pong champions notwithstanding), the Platinum Elite swallowed up five days’ worth of clothes with no problem and had a good deal of room to spare—and that’s without our resorting to the expansion zipper.

It has an excellent warranty. Should anything go wrong, you can take advantage of Travelpro’s generous lifetime warranty, which covers airline damage . The sole other company we’ve seen offering this extensive a warranty is Briggs & Riley, whose carry-on suitcases start at about $500. Travelpro bags have owner-serviceable parts and multiple repair centers . To get repair service, you can either drop the bag off at a repair center or ship the bag to Travelpro, the cost of which the company will cover. Keep in mind that the warranty doesn’t cover cosmetic wear.

Travelpro has a history of fixing production errors remarkably quickly. In 2019, we noticed a small uptick in Wirecutter reader complaints about zipper tabs breaking. We reached out to Travelpro, and a representative told us that a production error expanded the capacity of the front pocket of the Platinum Elite; this allowed travelers to overpack the pocket, which put excessive strain on the zipper. Travelpro identified and fixed the issue before it had reached the threshold of more than a few comments online.

Dimensions: 23.5 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 7.8 pounds Volume: 46 liters

How the Platinum Elite has held up

After nearly a decade of testing the Platinum Elite line of bags from Travelpro, we have yet to encounter a single serious issue. The fabric exterior brushes off scrapes and is easy enough to clean. Simply, it is a remarkably built bag that continues to travel well, year after year.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The back of a Travelpro Platinum Elite carry-on suitcase.

  • Though the Platinum Elite rolled well in general, we are still concerned when dragging the bag up stairs. Some of the other bags we tested had long plastic bumper strips running most of the way up the length of the bag; this Travelpro model’s skid plate isn’t as big or as protective. I haven’t had an issue, but if you’re particularly rough on your luggage or uncomfortable lifting the bag over curbs or up stairs, it’s something to be aware of.

Close-up of the battery pocket on the side of the Travelpro Platinum Elite.

  • In 2018, Travelpro added a USB-A pass-through cable to the Platinum Elite as a way to compete with so-called smart bags. We like the battery pocket, but the built-in cable itself, which routes from the pocket to a USB port less than 6 inches away, is an unnecessary item, which at best adds a potential point of failure to the bag—USB cables do not last forever. Does it ruin the bag? No. Is it a feature? Not really.

Our picks for the best hard-sided carry-on luggage, an Away The Carry-On and the Away The Bigger Carry-On.

If you prefer the look of hard-sided luggage or the security of knowing that you can’t overpack your suitcase, Away’s The Carry-On is the carry-on we recommend. If you want to maximize your available carry-on space, it also comes in a slightly larger size: The Bigger Carry-On .

It can take wear and tear. Most travelers are still better off with one of our soft-sided picks than a hard-sided carry-on; soft-sided luggage shows less wear and typically lasts longer than hard-sided luggage. But the Away Carry-On’s wheels and zipper are as well made as those of our soft-sided picks, and its polycarbonate showed fewer scratches than that of hard-sided competitors.

We’ve tested the Away Carry-On for six years, traveling with it ourselves across the country and lending several units to testers and frequent travelers to see how they enjoyed using the bag. Its polycarbonate feels similar to that used on more high-end (and significantly pricier) suitcases such as the Rimowa Essential Cabin , which is more than three times as expensive.

An opened Away The Carry-On suitcase.

You have options if you need extra space. Away makes a similar model of suitcase with an expandable zipper, The Carry-On Flex . The Flex is the same bag as the standard Carry-On except for the expanding center zipper and the price (it’s about $50 more). Personally, I’m not a fan of expanding zippers on suitcases. It feels like just one more thing to break. But some people may prefer having the extra flexibility.

It feels great to use. The bag itself feels good in the hands, and the wheels are noticeably better than those on any of the hard-sided competitors we tried. Away also uses YKK zippers, outclassing our top pick in that regard (Travelpro moved to Supra zippers in 2015). At this point, we’re pretty comfortable saying that years of debate over the best zipper are largely redundant, but YKK still sets the standard.

Imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Away has sparked more imitators and outright duplicates than any other brand in the past decade, in part due to its appeal with younger travelers. I’ve thought about why, and as best as I can guess, a simple polycarbonate cube dripped in limited-edition soft hues does exude a certain calm; the fact that some of those same colors also coat the exteriors of pills ending in suffixes -ax and -il is not, one assumes, accidental.

It has a great warranty. The Away Carry-On is backed by a limited lifetime warranty that protects against defects and parts breaking. Though the warranty doesn’t specifically mention airline damage, the damages it does list—cracks or breaks in the shell, wheels or handles becoming unusable, zippers that don’t work, fabric tears that render any pocket unusable—basically outline anything an airline could possibly dish out.

Dimensions (for The Carry-On): 21.7 by 14.4 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 7.5 pounds Volume: 40 liters

  • The Carry-On’s sleek style comes at a cost: Its polycarbonate shell is ultimately more likely to break than the nylon fabric of our other picks.
  • It lacks certain amenities, such as external pockets and a suiter, that our top picks have.
  • The clamshell design, which splits down the middle and opens into two parts, can make the bag frustrating to pack and unpack. Packing cubes help, but after years of packing and unpacking soft-sided luggage with a single lid, I personally find a clamshell design to be more finicky when packing.

Our budget pick for best carry-on luggage, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 21-inch Carry-On Spinner.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner is one of the lightest pieces of luggage we’ve tested, at a great price.

It’s lightweight. We have a hard time imagining how anyone could make a suitcase much lighter than this without breaking certain laws of physics. A few years ago, I took apart a Maxlite suitcase to see how the internal frame was built. What I found beneath the fabric was a clever lattice of plastic supporting the frame, which offered the best balance between weight-saving and structure.

For some people, especially those with limited upper-body strength, a lighter bag—even by just a few pounds—may be easier to lift or manage. That said, most people don’t need extremely light luggage, but just to pack less. For all the innovative design, the Maxlite 5 shaves only 2.4 pounds off the weight of our top pick. That’s the equivalent of a couple of pairs of jeans.

It’s inexpensive. My general advice to friends is to spend more than $200 but less than $500 to get good, if not great, luggage. The Maxlite 5 is the one piece of luggage I’ve found that breaks that rule. You can usually find it for about $150 or less, which is a remarkable price considering the bag’s quality.

Top view of an opened Travelpro Maxlite 5 21-inch Carry-On Spinner.

Simple is good. This model doesn’t have any real bells or whistles—no battery pass-throughs or magnetically tracked wheels, as with our other Travelpro picks. Instead you’ll find two simple front pockets, a few well-placed handles, and a cavernous main compartment with a couple of pockets and two light straps to hold your stuff in place.

It comes from a trusted brand. We haven’t covered, examined, and interrogated a single luggage brand at Wirecutter for as long as we have Travelpro. For a decade, Travelpro has done a premier job of maintaining trust with its customers and with us—we’ve watched the company make small changes in design, catch flaws quickly, and address warranty concerns promptly. This is not something we say lightly: Travelpro is a name you can trust.

Dimensions: 23 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 5.4 pounds Volume: 46 liters

  • The Maxlite 5’s warranty isn’t as robust as that of our top pick: Manufacturing defects in the wheels, zippers, and handles are covered for as long as you own the bag, but airline damage and shipping to a Travelpro repair center are covered only for the first year. (And you do need to register the bag.) Considering that this bag costs half the price of the Platinum Elite, this makes sense, but it’s something to be aware of.

Two Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22-inch Carry-On Expandable Spinners, the four- and two-wheeled versions, shown side by side.

If you’re a frequent flyer and willing to invest in higher-quality gear, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner (also available in a two-wheeled version with more capacity).

It’s the best of the best. Every detail of this top-rated bag, from the zippers to the wheels to the wrinkle-resistant suit compartment, is made to the highest standards, and we found that it had a higher proportion of usable space than any other spinner bag we tested. Briggs & Riley keeps its design consistent, adding, at most, small improvements such as this year’s upgraded lifting handle. Our 6-foot-6 paid tester pointed out that the Baseline Essential’s handle extended an inch and a half farther than that of the Travelpro Platinum Elite, which made it less likely to hit his heels as he pulled it.

Although the wheels don’t snap into alignment, they are exceptionally smooth-rolling and easy to maneuver. If you fly more than 25,000 miles per year, it’s worthwhile to invest in luggage that goes beyond merely being sturdy and actually improves your overall travel experience. That’s why we’ve been recommending it since we first covered this topic in 2014. The Baseline Essential is one of the best carry-on luggage options available today.

Close-up of the plastic handle of the Briggs & Riley’s CX expansion and compression system.

Its compression system is truly a marvel. The most ingenious part of the Baseline Essential bag is its CX expansion and compression system. Pull upward on two plastic handles inside the bag, and you can extend its depth a full 2.5 inches. Load the bag as full as you need to, and zip it closed. Then you push down on the bag, which compresses it as a clip mechanism secures it in place. Unlike other expansion systems, which are either open or closed, this one locks into incremental positions. It’s a unique design and very satisfying to use.

The inside of a Briggs & Riley and a Travelpro Platinum Elite spinners.

It’s the easiest to pack. Briggs & Riley placed the tracks for the Baseline Essential handles on the outside of the bag, which allows for a flat surface in the interior of the bag, with no small crevices to work around for simple packing. And in our tests, after packing 10 bags and trying to figure out strategies for each nook and cranny, packing on a broad flat surface felt like a luxury. According to our measurements, the bag, unexpanded, offers 1,905 cubic inches of storage room (and that accounts for the space occupied by the wheel wells and such). Expanded, it can stow 2,110 cubic inches. That’s remarkably efficient for a bag that does so much. All of these features add up to a carry-on that is easier to pack than any other bag we tested.

The Baseline Essential spinner is also the only spinner luggage model we tested with a built-in garment folder. It’s similar to the folder in Travelpro’s two-wheeled Platinum Elite bag, and that’s a good thing. It’s easy to pack and has an anchor point for hangers. Each of the three folds has a bit of padding that helps to keep a suit from pinching onto itself and creasing, though much of that depends on how well you pack. You can fit a week’s worth of clothes in the Baseline Essential, including some puffy gear for colder weather. A wide, wrinkle-free tie-down system completes the package.

It’s understated. On the outside, the Baseline Essential is pretty unremarkable. There’s nothing eye-grabbing about the bag, which is good if you’re trying to avoid being gate-checked (or having it stolen). Its outer, nylon fabric seems to be of a tighter weave than that used on the other bags we’ve tested. We also noticed a robust feel to the zippers, which are a self-repairing type made by YKK.

Similar to our top pick, the Baseline Essential includes a charging pocket. However, Briggs & Riley skipped the internal USB wiring, instead opting for a simple pocket arrangement (video) on the back of the bag for discreetly storing a charge pack and your phone. It’s an elegant solution.

It comes with an excellent warranty. All Briggs & Riley bags come with a lifetime warranty that covers any damage to the “functional aspects” of the bag, even if caused by an airline (like Travelpro, Briggs & Riley does not cover cosmetic wear or cleaning). Although Briggs & Riley handles warranty-covered repairs at no extra cost, you do have to pay to ship the bag to the company to carry out any repairs; it will ship your bag back to you for free. Or you can drop off the bag at one of the many repair centers . Briggs & Riley emphasizes that returning your bag to you in its original condition, even after repairs, is not always possible. The bags are easy to service and repair, so you can also order the parts you need and replace them yourself at home.

We’ve put in the miles, and the Baseline Essential is in a separate league. Over a five-year period before the pandemic, Wirecutter founder Brian Lam carried a two-wheeled Baseline Essential carry-on while traveling 150,000 miles and farther. After considering all the bags in our test and logging an additional 40,000 miles with a similarly priced bag by Tumi, he was convinced that this model is the best for anyone who’s always on the move. “I love this bag. It carries so much,” Brian said. “Sometimes I check it. Sometimes I carry it. It always fits.”

Dimensions: 22 by 14 by 9 (expands to 11.5) inches (HWD) Weight: 10 pounds Volume: 37 liters (expands to 48 liters)

  • Despite the plastic shielding, the exposed rails on the exterior could use more protection. While dragging the bag up stairs (which we don’t advise doing), we felt more scraping than we’d like.
  • At first glance, the handle feels too loose for a roughly $700 bag. We spoke to Briggs & Riley representatives, and they explained that this is a deliberate choice: The looser tolerances allow for the handle to retract by itself when you click its button, without your having to force it down. In practice, this is very helpful for scaling stairs and could save you some hassle in tight quarters, such as in the aisle of an airplane.
  • At 10 pounds, the Baseline Essential is the heaviest bag we recommend. In this price range, weight often equals durability, which equals quality. But if you’re uncomfortable with a heavier bag, this isn’t the best pick for you.

A Carl Friedrik The Carry-On, our upgrade pick for the best hard-sided carry-on.

Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On is an impressive polycarbonate case that improves in areas where most other companies tend to cut corners.

It’s robust and durable. It improves the usual hard-case design primarily by replacing the zipper with an aluminum frame sealed with two metal latches incorporating TSA locks. This trim makes the case feel far more robust, which is a very satisfying feeling when you’re wheeling luggage around an airport.

An opened Carl Friedrik The Carry-On suitcase showing its removable compression pad.

Clasping shut an aluminum frame with a metal lock is pleasing—it feels like closing a safe and locking it tight. The polycarbonate shell has an equally rigid feeling but exhibits plenty of flexibility under strain. Although it’s difficult to compare polycarbonates between brands, higher-end polycarbonate feels dense to the touch even as the material flexes; in this piece of luggage, Carl Friedrik offers impressive quality.

Additionally, the Carl Friedrik Carry-On has YKK zippers internally and Hinomoto spinner wheels from Japan—both considered the top of their class.

It’s thoughtfully styled. The soft leather accents and bolted frame all have a certain maturity that’s often lacking in other, competing cases. This look carries to the inside of the luggage as well. A simple gray polyester lining accompanies two sets of compression straps and a removable compression pad, which has a zippered pocket.

It has an excellent warranty. As you might expect for the price, Carl Friedrik backs up its luggage with a lifetime warranty that protects against airline damage (assuming the airline hasn’t responded to your request for compensation within 14 days).

Dimensions: 21.6 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 8.6 pounds Volume: 40 liters

  • This is a brand-new pick—so far we haven’t found any flaws, but we’re keeping an eye on the latches. Luggage latches are small, complicated mechanical devices that have a myriad of ways to fail.
  • The handle feels just a touch loose, which, as with our upgrade pick from Briggs & Riley , can be a benefit. It can also sometimes be a hazard. Again, we’ll continue testing it.

A Yeti Crossroads 22-inch/35-liter Wheeled Luggage.

Hybrid designs like the Yeti Crossroads 22″/35L Wheeled Luggage aren’t for everyone, but if you like the flexibility of a soft-sided luggage with the hard-hitting ruggedness of a polycarbonate back and two large fixed wheels, then this bag is just right.

It’s made from tough materials and easy-to-repair parts. Yeti has a reputation for using tough, sometimes cutting-edge, materials in all its gear. The Crossroads is no exception. The 700-denier nylon is one of the better nylons we’ve tested—tightly woven and exceptionally durable. (Denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric.)

View of the inside of a Yeti Crossroads 22-inch/35-liter Wheeled Luggage.

The Crossroads comes in only a two-wheeled design, which is usually able to withstand more damage than a four-wheeled design. The wheels are also easier to service on the road and often replaceable. 5

It’s well organized. It includes a front panel organizer, similar to that of modern laptop backpacks, with two slots for your laptop and tablet plus a mesh pocket for spare gear. Fully packed, it still has room for a few magazines as well, if you like. Internally, the soft top has a zippered main compartment with a decent amount of packing space, as well as two mesh organizing pockets.

It’s a pleasure to pack. As the Crossroads is built around a molded polycarbonate base, the entire suitcase becomes, in essence, a large tray to pack and then zip shut. It’s a very satisfying design—easier to manage than many of the clamshell designs that are currently popular. Yeti’s packing cubes are designed to fit snugly in the Crossroads’s main compartment, and the bag does come with one small cube. But if you choose these, you’re spending a premium for additional packing cubes when almost any packing cube will work.

Dimensions: 22 by 14 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 8 pounds Volume: 40 liters

  • We’d love to see a better warranty. Three years is very limited when compared with other luggage brands selling similarly priced suitcases—especially for a bag that claims to be as tough as the brand’s reputation.
  • Occasionally, Yeti’s tough-gear reputation veers almost into absurdity, as with the inclusion here of self-sealing zippers on a bag that isn’t actually waterproof—merely weather resistant. They’re top-of-the-line zippers. But self-sealing zippers can be hard to operate and require regular lubrication, which most people aren’t used to providing.
  • The front-facing laptop organizer is woefully unshielded. If you’re traveling with a laptop, place it deep within the bag if you want it properly protected.
  • The bag feels heavy—by our measurements, it weighs about a half pound more than Yeti’s 7.5-pound estimation. It’s not the heaviest of our picks, but something about the weight distribution and shape of the bag makes it feel heavier when you’re swinging it around.

If you need a hard-sided budget bag: Look at the Gregory Quadro Hardcase 22″ , an unexpectedly high-quality suitcase from an outdoor-gear company. Gregory offers a lifetime warranty with service and repair. Although the warranty doesn’t explicitly mention airline damage, Gregory’s good reputation speaks for itself in this matter. However, the Quadro Hardcase is a pound heavier (at 6.5 pounds) and about $60 more than our budget pick.

If the Away Carry-On is sold out: Consider the Monos Carry-On Plus . Picking between these two models came down to splitting some very fine hairs. Both use YKK zippers. Both have lifetime warranties. The handles and interiors are almost identical. Monos even hides the stitching that attaches the zipper to the polycarbonate frame, which is a nice aesthetic touch. The difference came down to the Away Carry-On’s wheels, which spun just that much more freely in our testing, and the underside handle, which made it easier to pull out of overhead bins. And we’ve tested the Away Carry-On for longer. However, if it’s unavailable, the Monos model is a good, nearly identical substitute.

If you want a bag made of recycled materials: We suggest the Paravel Aviator Carry-On . Paravel is attempting to design luggage with recycled materials and some environmentally minded transparency to the company’s production methods. However, you pay a premium for the effort. Quality-wise, the bag is similar to our other hard-sided picks, for about a hundred more dollars. And much of the Paravel branding is built on carbon offsets, which we are deeply skeptical of (though we wish they worked).

If you’re an infrequent adventurer: Try the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller , which could almost be an also-great pick under our hybrid pick . It’s cheaper, has a better warranty (but no explicit coverage for airline damage), and is made from recycled materials. However, the overall build quality is wanting. For example, the polycarbonate shell doesn’t fully cover the tubes for the extendable handle as it does with our hybrid pick. It seems an oversight for bags that are built to knock around.

If the best possible suit-packing experience is all you want, and money is no object: The Vocier C38 Carry-On Luggage is worth a look, despite a few flaws and an $800 price tag. The C38 takes a unique, fold-free approach to packing clothes. Rather than folding garments in on themselves to fit in the bag, it bends the suit around the outside of the luggage frame in a U shape. This packing method creates no creases and therefore no wrinkles. The case is protected by a limited lifetime warranty that doesn’t cover airline damage.

We hope to take a look at the European brand Floyd , which is currently popular on Instagram. At first glance, it’s another piece of luggage looking to appeal to a younger mass audience. But the easy-to-replace polyurethane wheels and bearings—similar to skateboard wheels—do have “user-serviceable parts inside” curb appeal.

We’re currently testing Level8’s Voyageur series of luggage, which features an extra-wide handle. It’s a design trend we’re starting to track with a few lesser-known brands (and, incidentally, a Louis Vuitton case costing several thousand dollars). A wide handle should do two things: It should free up a little more space inside the luggage, and it should improve handling.

Lastly, we’re considering expanding our coverage to include equipment cases like those made by Pelican . Though their appropriate use is very specific, when you need to travel with high-end gear or fragile valuables, Pelican cases more or less set the standard.

Soft-sided carry-on luggage

Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Roller Bag : We’re generally fans of Cotopaxi’s Allpa line, but this two-wheeled bag falls short. Specifically, the bottom of the bag is split by the zipper, which gives the bag an unstable feeling when it’s standing upright.

Eagle Creek Tarmac XE 4-Wheel 22″ Carry On Luggage : If this bag were about $150 cheaper, it would be a good price for the quality. We like the recycled materials, but the bag lacks framing.

Solo Re:Treat Carry-On Spinner : I appreciate any bag made entirely out of recycled materials, but this model (from a brand owned by the same company that manages Briggs & Riley) felt awfully flimsy. Even with its five-year warranty, I just don’t trust that this bag can go the distance.

Thule Subterra : The clamshell design—similar to the ones you find on hard-sided bags—makes this bag difficult to close if you’re trying to fill it to its full capacity. It just isn’t as easy to use as our soft-sided picks.

Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller : The balance on this bag was decent, and it stood up well unloaded or loaded. Its wheels had a cheap ball-bearing rhythmic chatter, though, and the abundance of zippers and internal compartments made it tedious to pack.

Tumi Aerotour International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On : At about half the price, this would be a great bag. But paying nearly $700 for a five-year warranty and a bag that doesn’t do nearly as much as a Briggs & Riley suitcase seems a bit silly.

Hard-sided carry-on luggage

Amazon Basics 24-Inch Hardside Spinner : This bag is a surprisingly good carry-on for about $90. However, its ABS plastic shell is not as tough as a polycarbonate shell. It’s worth investing more in your luggage—the bag you choose will last longer and work better.

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On : The Arlo Skye carry-on is a decent piece of luggage, but it’s hard to square the bag with its cost: $200 more than our pick from Away .

Away The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition : 10 pounds! At this weight, you’ve lost a quarter of your allowable luggage weight to the suitcase alone, unpacked. And it’s nearly as expensive as our upgrade pick, with a much less satisfying compression system.

Briggs & Riley Torq and Sympatico : Though these collections seek to solve a different problem, neither is as impressive as the Baseline series.

Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Luggage : We preferred sturdier polycarbonate shells over Calpak’s blended ABS polycarbonate shell. Also, the bag’s handling felt jittery against normal airport floor surfaces.

Delsey Rempart Expandable Spinner Carry-On : At just around $200, the Rempart is a decent budget option. However, the external styling (like layers of pressed sheet pans) is an odd choice. It has some practicality, but only if you’re stacking identical Delsey cases one on top of another, which might happen, I suppose, at some point … maybe.

July Carry On : In the lineup between July, Monos, and Away, July falls just short. We appreciate the lifetime warranty, YKK zippers, and flexible but dense-feeling polycarbonate. But the overall design doesn’t do much to improve on the category (as the Monos bag subtly does).

Level8 Road Runner Pro Carry-On 20″ : This is potentially a decent budget pick at just around $200. But the one-year warranty and the somewhat fiddly TSA lock and front latching panel give us pause.

Lojel Cubo Medium : Although we liked the uncommon top-loading design, the internal organization of the lid made packing this carry-on difficult. We also weren’t impressed by the zippered expansion system, which made the suitcase feel bulkier than our picks.

Lojel Voja Medium : An odd suitcase, this would be a great children’s suitcase or a budget pick—especially if it were under $200. But its current price is steep for a polypropylene blend with a couple of latches.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Chris Ryan.

Airline policies vary, but a general rule is that the bag must be under 45 linear inches—the total sum of the bag’s length, width, and depth. Here’s the current sizing breakdown among the major US airlines:

  • Alaska Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
  • Allegiant Air: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
  • American Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches (the dimensions of soft-sided garment bags are allowed to add up to 51 inches)
  • Delta Air Lines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
  • Frontier Airlines: 24 by 16 by 10 inches (and less than 35 pounds)
  • Hawaiian Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
  • JetBlue Airways: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
  • Southwest Airlines: 24 by 16 by 10 inches
  • Spirit Airlines: 22 by 18 by 10 inches
  • Sun Country Airlines: 24 by 16 by 11 inches
  • United Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches

We double-checked the measurable packable space of our top picks against the manufacturers’ listed volumes by filling each piece of luggage with hundreds of Ping-Pong balls: 144 Ping-Pong balls weigh exactly 0.5 pound, and each Ping-Pong ball represents approximately 2 cubic inches (PDF) . After weighing each piece of luggage three times to establish an average empty weight, we filled the bags as full as we could with Ping-Pong balls and measured the change in weight. For every half-pound increase in weight we estimated 288 cubic inches of packable space.

His five-day travel kit included the following:

  • 1 two-piece linen suit on a hanger
  • 1 dress shirt on a hanger
  • 1 pair of jeans
  • 1 pair of khakis
  • 5 medium-weight to lightweight shirts
  • 1 heavy sweater
  • 2 flannel shirts
  • 5 pairs of boxer briefs
  • 5 pairs of sport socks

Her five-day travel kit included the following:

  • 1 dress on a hanger
  • 1 blazer on a hanger
  • 1 blouse on a hanger
  • 1 pair of heels
  • 2 pairs of jeans
  • 1 pair of light sneakers
  • 5 pairs of underwear and 3 bras
  • 1 pair of yoga pants
  • 1 flannel shirt
  • 1 hair dryer
  • 1 curling iron
  • 1 jewelry/makeup kit
  • 3 pairs of sport socks
  • 4 lightweight shirts

You use a garment folder by laying a suit or dress across the panels, folding them into themselves, and zipping up the inner compartment. A folder should be wide enough that a suit isn’t cramped, and it should include hanger straps (which should fit around everything, even larger plastic hangers) to keep things from shifting around too much. Some folding boards have 0.75-inch-diameter foam rolls in them to help prevent creases along the packed clothes’ fold lines. When you aren’t traveling with fancy clothes, you can take the whole apparatus apart and use it as luggage dividers in the main bag itself, or leave it at home, converting the suit/dress compartment into an extra packing cube.

Yeti doesn’t seem to have an easy way to order replaceable wheels. But the 3.5-by-1-inch wheels are fairly common, and we’re looking at the best possible alternatives.

Meet your guide

metal travel luggage

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

An illustration reading "our 100 most popular September picks."

Wirecutter’s 100 Most Popular Picks in September 2022

by Wirecutter Staff

These 100 useful things were the most-purchased Wirecutter picks in September 2022.

Our six choices for best luggage tags displayed on a wooden surface

The Best Luggage Tags

by Geoffrey Morrison

We chose five luggage tags that will help you identify your belongings in a sea of similar suitcases.

A person standing outside in a light blue short sleeve shirt wears the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L backpack, in black with a gray llama-head logo and aqua accents.

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

by Kit Dillon

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is our backpack pick for most travelers. We also have picks for other travelers, including those who want to carry a bit more.

A Travelpro rolling suitcase, next to clothes and a purse.

We’ve Loved Luggage From Travelpro’s Platinum Elite Line for Nearly a Decade. Here’s Why.

Travelpro Platinum Elite is our most loyal travel companion.

Our editors carefully select every product we recommend. We may earn a commission from these links. Learn more

The 8 Best Aluminum Suitcases For Travel

Best Aluminum Suitcases 00 Hero

By: Johnny Brayson Published: May 22, 2023

By: Johnny Brayson and Ethan Brehm Published: May 22, 2023

Contributors

metal travel luggage

Summer is in sight, which means we can’t wait to set out on all those vacations we’ve had planned for months. And with travel being the premier activity du jour, there is no better time to buy a new suitcase. And if you’re looking for the absolute best in luggage , then an aluminum suitcase should be at the top of your list. To help you navigate purchasing one of these enduring (and expensive) symbols of luxury and good taste, we’ve put together a guide to the best aluminum suitcases that will make your next trip your best ever.

Best Aluminum Suitcases

metal travel luggage

Best Budget Suitcase

LEVEL8 Gibraltar

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Most Rugged

MVST Select TREK Carry-On

metal travel luggage

Best for Commuters

Away The Bigger Carry-On: Aluminum Edition

metal travel luggage

Best Overall

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On Max: Aluminum Edition

metal travel luggage

Easiest to Roll

Zero Halliburton Pursuit Aluminum Continental Carry-On Case

metal travel luggage

Best Upgrade

Rimowa Original Cabin

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Most Expressive

Tumi 19 Degree Aluminum Continental Carry-On

metal travel luggage

FPM Milano Bank Spinner 53

Is hard-sided luggage really worth it.

Pros And Cons

Although it’s heavier, bigger, and more expensive than its soft-sided counterpart, hard-sided luggage has some important benefits too. It goes without saying that the material has more rigidity, hardness, and durability, even if that comes at a cost. Likewise, it can take more of a beating than other bags when it comes to drops, punctures, and other various impacts.

In terms of an aluminum suitcase, there’s a lot to love. It has a better strength-to-weight ratio than other hard-sided options, and the zipperless locking-latch designs of the best aluminum suitcases provide better security than their zippered counterparts. They also have a clean and classic design that exudes a sense of luxury without being precious. After all, there’s nothing better than adding a few dents to your aluminum suitcase to help you recall your past adventures.

metal travel luggage

  • Clean minimalist design
  • Great ergonomic handle setup
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Surface gets scratched easily

Best Budget Suitcase: Our budget pick doesn’t skimp on quality, as it’s made with aluminum from U.S.-based Alcoa. An aluminum frame provides a sturdy base, while an aluminum-magnesium alloy makes for a strong shell and a clean minimalist design. An ergonomic grip on the telescoping aluminum alloy handle and a slow-releasing side rubber handle both ensure the suitcase stays secure in your hand, and the TSA-approved locks keep your belongings safe. Plus, it’s all backed by a lifetime warranty.

Capacity: 36L Weight: 10.14lbs Lock Type: Combo

metal travel luggage

  • Lightweight
  • “Unbreakable” aluminum-magnesium alloy shell
  • Reinforced corners
  • Intuitive interior organization
  • Weather-sealed
  • N/A; it’s the best option under $400

Most Rugged: A more rugged and industrial design helps this affordable option stand out on a luggage carousel, and thankfully, it has the specs to back up its looks. Rubber seals and TSA-approved locks keep anything nefarious from getting inside your luggage , while a smartly designed pocketed and divided interior makes packing a breeze. MVST Select describes the TREK’s aluminum-magnesium alloy shell as “unbreakable,” and the reinforced corners and aluminum telescoping handle add further sturdiness to its incredibly solid build.

Capacity: 34L Weight: 9.6lbs Lock Type: Combo

metal travel luggage

  • Lots of interior space for a carry-on
  • Best interior compression system
  • Powerful built-in phone charger
  • 360-degree wheels
  • Went up a lot in price recently
  • Latch can get finicky

Best for Commuters: Away is arguably the internet’s favorite luggage brand, and it isn’t hard to see why. Sure, their marketing is pretty slick, but they also make one seriously nice product. The Bigger Carry-On boasts a beautiful aluminum design with smooth-riding 360° spinner wheels and a trademark built-in interior compression system that almost transforms packing into a joyful experience. There are also tons of extras that show superior attention to detail, such as a genuine leather luggage tag and an available built-in phone charger that’s TSA-approved and can charge your phone up to 4 times.

Capacity: 40.9L Weight: 10.6lbs Lock Type: Combo

metal travel luggage

  • Beautiful exteriort
  • Full-grain leather handles
  • Built-in super-fast phone charger
  • Very spacious
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum

Best Overall: Another popular online-only brand, Arlo Skye trends a bit more upmarket with a more luxurious feel and a stronger focus on design — two things that make a lot of sense once you learn that the brand was founded by alums from Tumi and Louis Vuitton. The aluminum used in the shell is aircraft-grade. The specially designed anti-microbial interior lining inhibits germ growth. The spinner wheels are 15% quieter than the industry standard. The handles are made of full-grain leather. And the super-fast included phone charger will top up your phone in just 30 minutes. What more do you need?

Capacity: 45L Weight: 10.5lbs Lock Type: Combo

metal travel luggage

  • Patented wheels are incredibly smooth
  • Wider profile helps it fit in most overhead compartments
  • Concave edges make it stronger
  • Can get damaged cosmetically

Easiest to Roll: ZERO Halliburton has been in the aluminum business for a long time. Known mainly for their iconic aluminum attaché cases — like the one that houses the president’s “nuclear football” — the brand also makes some of the highest-quality luggage in the world from their trademark material. Their latest carry-on features their usual quality construction, with a brushed aluminum exterior reinforced by patented ZH Concave Edging for added strength. Other highlights include performance-enhancing ball-bearing wheels, the patented ZH Chassis that allows for easy transport, and elegant new design language that recalls the brand’s mid-century offerings.

Capacity: 39L Weight: 12.5lbs Lock Type: Combo

metal travel luggage

  • Classic & iconic aesthetic
  • Quality hasn’t ever gone down, as evident by heavier robust build
  • Stepless handle adjustment
  • Maneuvers really well
  • Price has increase significantly

Best Upgrade: If you want a true original, then the only choice for you is RIMOWA. The German brand invented the aluminum suitcase and debuted their trademark parallel groove design way back in 1950, and it’s been an icon ever since. These days, RIMOWA is a globally-renowned luxury brand as well, and arguably no suitcase carries as much cachet. The Original Cabin is their most classic offering, with its timeless and unmistakable form, its high-end anodized aluminum construction, and its near-perfect engineering.

metal travel luggage

  • Unique design on the side
  • Comes with vintage-style destination stickers
  • Great interior organization
  • Poor weight-to-capacity ratio

Most Expressive: One of the main competitors to RIMOWA is Tumi, a name that is synonymous with luxury travel. While mainly known for their ballistic nylon luggage, the nearly half-century-old American brand debuted its first collection of aluminum luggage in 2016 with the 19 Degree line — and it was well worth the wait. Displaying a gorgeous fluid-like flowing design, everything from the handles to the wheels to the packing dividers has been plotted with the utmost care, and the included extras, like a hanger bracket and vintage-style destination stickers, help make this carry-on even more special.

Capacity: 35L Weight: 11.8lbs Lock Type: Combo

metal travel luggage

  • Inspired by vintage trunks
  • Aluminum shell is thick
  • Interior straps and handle made of Italian leather
  • Unique Maxi butterfly closures
  • Silent wheels
  • You won’t want to check this in (if you have to)

Most Luxe: If even RIMOWA and Tumi are too gauche for you and you demand the ultimate luxury experience from your aluminum suitcase, then Italian leather goods brand FPM Milano has what you’re looking for. Their Bank line was designed by renowned furniture designer Marc Sadler, who was inspired by vintage trunks. But there’s more to the Italian-made Bank than head-turning looks. It boasts a 10-micron-thick 100% aluminum shell, a handle and interior organizing straps made from supple leather, a non-slip rubber service handle, silent sliding wheels , and two special Maxi butterfly closures with TSA-approved locks.

Capacity: 36.6L Weight: 11lbs Lock Type: Combo

The Best GMT Travel Watches For Men

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A good suitcase is far from the only accessory you’ll need when traveling, and one of the handiest purchases you can make is a solid GMT travel watch. Check out our guide to discover the best GMT watches you can buy today.

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Aluminum Luggage: All You Need to Know + My Top Picks

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Whenever I embark on a new journey, whether it’s a leisurely vacation or a business trip, my aluminum suitcase is a constant companion. And there’s a reason for that! If you’ve ever found yourself in the luggage aisle pondering whether to make the leap to aluminum luggage, let me share my insights on why aluminum suitcases have become such a valuable addition to my travel gear.

As a seasoned traveler, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with various types of luggage . From the soft fabric bags that wear out too soon to the hard polycarbonate ones that never quite seemed sturdy enough, I’ve tried them all. But there’s one type that has consistently stood out and become my reliable travel companion: the aluminum suitcase. Elegant yet resilient, this modern marvel of travel gear beautifully blends functionality with style.

Why has this specific type of luggage become my favorite? It’s simple. Beyond its shining exterior lies a world of benefits that few other materials can offer. Every trip I’ve taken with my aluminum suitcase has been a testimony to its reliability and style.

Here’s everything there is to know about aluminum luggage and why I, and countless travelers like me, have made it their go-to travel companion.

But First: What is Aluminum Luggage?

Aluminum Luggage

Let’s start with the basics. Aluminum luggage is essentially a suitcase crafted from sheets of aluminum alloy, renowned for its toughness and durability.

Aluminum is a lightweight metal that’s been a favorite among travelers for decades. But in recent years, with the influx of cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, aluminum suitcases have taken the world by storm. Its anti-corrosive properties mean your suitcase won’t rust over time, ensuring longevity. Moreover, the malleability of aluminum allows for precision in design and an impeccable finish, making each suitcase a piece of art in itself.

Why You Should Buy an Aluminum Suitcase

Years ago, before joining the aluminum luggage bandwagon, I too, was skeptical. However, once I delved deeper, I discovered several compelling reasons to make the switch.

The charm of aluminum suitcases is twofold. First, there’s the unbeatable durability. Made from high-quality metal, these suitcases can withstand impacts, ensuring your belongings stay protected. I remember the first time I purchased an aluminum suitcase – it felt like an upgrade to first class. The rigidity and resilience of the material gave me a sense of security that few other luggage materials could match. No more worrying about the suitcase caving in or the fear of my belongings getting damaged.

Secondly, there’s the aesthetics. Let’s face it: they look chic! Aluminum luggage has a sleek, modern, and sophisticated look, with the added benefit of being nearly indestructible. With a modern design and gleaming surface, aluminum luggage is a stylish choice for the fashion-forward traveler. It truly stands out in a crowd and makes a statement wherever you go.

Beyond the aesthetics and practical advantages like durability and security, there’s a prestige associated with aluminum suitcases. It speaks to a traveler’s desire for quality, durability, and style. In a sea of fabric and plastic suitcases, an aluminum suitcase stands out, representing a blend of function and fashion.

For me, it’s about the confidence I feel when wheeling my aluminum suitcase through the airport. Knowing my belongings are safe and I’m traveling in style is worth every penny.

My Picks for the Best Aluminum Luggage Brands

In the expansive, and dare I say expensive, world of aluminum luggage, there are countless brands vying for attention. But over the years, and after much trial and error, I’ve narrowed down my favorites to three standout brands that have consistently impressed me with their design, durability, and overall quality.

Let’s delve into each of them, exploring why they’ve earned a place on my coveted list.

MVST Select

MVST Luggage

While I’ve had the pleasure of testing lots of aluminum luggage brands over the years, MVST Select shines brightest for me. Topping my list, it offers a seamless blend of innovative design, unmatched durability, aesthetic appeal, and value for money. The details, from the intricate locking mechanisms to the chic external finish, have made my travels both secure and stylish.

Its uniqueness lies in the perfect harmony of design and durability. Every journey with my MVST suitcase feels like a statement, a testament to impeccable taste and quality. But it’s not just the external allure that has me hooked. The interior of an MVST suitcase is thoughtfully designed, with more compartments and pockets than its pricier counterparts, catering to both the meticulous packer and the last-minute stuffer.

If you’re in the market for the best aluminum luggage that won’t break the bank or compromise on style and strength, MVST Select should undoubtedly be your first pick. I have recently tested and published my complete MVST TREK review , so I can personally vouch for its unparalleled quality and unmatched design.

  • My favorite aluminum carry-on luggage from MVST: TREK Aluminum Suitcase Silver
  • My favorite aluminum checked luggage from MVST: SPACE Aluminum Suitcase Black

Rimowa

When it comes to a legacy of luxury in the realm of luggage, RIMOWA easily secures its spot. Originating from Germany, this brand has been in the game for over a century, and this wealth of experience is palpable in each of their suitcases. RIMOWA’s unwavering dedication to excellence has always left a lasting impression on me. Each suitcase is a legacy, a perfect blend of time-honored craftsmanship and cutting-edge innovation.

Their iconic grooved design has become something of a status symbol in airports worldwide. And it’s not just aesthetics; the precision engineering that goes into each piece ensures longevity and reliability. They use a combination of materials, with aluminum taking center stage, offering a diverse range that caters to varied travel preferences.

Check out my favorite RIMOWA carry-on luggage pieces selection , and let me know which one is your favorite; I’m curious! I love the sleek design of the Original Cabin Twist, but the vibrant colors of the Essential Cabin are so fun!

While their price point might be on the higher side, with RIMOWA, you’re not just buying a suitcase. You’re investing in a legacy of travel, in a brand that’s seen the evolution of voyages from steamships to the jet age. It’s a brand that understands the nuanced needs of travelers and consistently delivers on its promise of excellence.

  • My favorite aluminum carry-on luggage from RIMOWA: Original Cabin Twist
  • My favorite aluminum checked luggage from RIMOWA: Original Trunk XL

MVST Select vs. RIMOWA: The Breakdown

MVST Select vs. RIMOWA

When comparing MVST Select and RIMOWA, two prominent names in the realm of aluminum luggage, the differences are subtle yet impactful.

Style & Design: I find MVST Select to be edgier and more contemporary in its design language. It exudes a certain youthful dynamism which, for many, is its signature appeal. RIMOWA, on the other hand, offers a classic and timeless design, echoing its long-standing heritage in the luggage industry.

Materials & Durability : Diving into the construction and resilience of these suitcases, both MVST Select and RIMOWA have chosen high-grade aluminum as their base. MVST, however, spices up the mix by integrating innovative materials that not only add to the suitcase’s robustness but also reduce weight. Their aluminum-magnesium alloy offers a better strength-to-weight ratio and can withstand greater loads and stresses.

RIMOWA, rooted in tradition, places its trust in time-tested materials that have weathered countless travel stories over decades. The brand uses adonized aluminum, a pure aluminum that has undergone an electrolytic oxidation process, resulting in a lighter, more corrosion-resistant piece of luggage.

When it comes to durability, MVST’s modern blend exhibits a slight advantage, offering resistance to a variety of travel-induced wear and tear. RIMOWA, with its longstanding reputation, remains resilient, serving as a dependable travel ally that stands the test of time.

Guarantee: RIMOWA’s long-standing reputation allows them to offer impressive warranty periods, which gives many travelers peace of mind. MVST Select, though newer to the scene, counters with competitive warranty terms, making sure customers feel the brand’s confidence in its products.

Sizes & Colors: RIMOWA generally offers a broader range of sizes, catering to various travel needs, from lengthy vacations to short business trips to walks around town. Standout designs include the Sling Clutch, the Cross-Body Bag, and the massive Trunk. In terms of colors, they usually rely on silver, but select pieces also come in Black or Titanium, as well as seasonal limited-edition colorways like their latest, eye-catching Arctic Blue.

MVST Select, while offering multiple options, tends to focus on core sizes that have been perennial favorites among their clientele, such as Carry On, Medium, and Large. However, they have adopted a broader color palette, with aluminum cases available in Gunmetal, Champagne, Red, Navy, Black, and even Army Green alongside the most common Silver.

Features: Both RIMOWA and MVST have equipped their aluminum pieces with premium features like ultra-smooth 360° spinner wheels, latches with integrated TSA-approved locks for added security, ergonomic telescoping handles, compression systems that allow you to pack more, and complimentary leather luggage tags. Surprisingly though, some thoughtful details make MVST aluminum luggage stand out. Their suitcases are lined with antimicrobial fabric, have more interior pockets for better organization, and the wheels on some models are removable.

Price: Another significant point of contention when comparing MVST Select to RIMOWA is the price. RIMOWA, with its storied history and luxury branding, comes with a heftier price tag, reflecting its longstanding reputation and commitment to high-end craftsmanship. MVST Select, although not cheap by any means, offers a more competitive price point (more than a third less than RIMOWA). This is particularly appealing for those who want a blend of quality and style without stretching their budget too thin. The value proposition from MVST is strong, making it an attractive option for discerning travelers conscious of both quality and cost.

The Alternative: Sterling Pacific

Sterling Pacific Aluminum Case

Sterling Pacific emerges as a commendable alternative to brands like RIMOWA and MVST Select. While it might not have the same storied history as RIMOWA or the edgy modernity of MVST, Sterling Pacific showcases an undying commitment to quality and design that’s hard to overlook.

The brand has an uncanny ability to capture the best of both worlds. On one hand, its design aesthetics resonate with the luxury of classic travel, reminiscent of the golden age of voyages. On the other, it brings forth a robustness that assures the modern traveler of its durability and longevity. The brand has meticulously curated its product range, focusing on essentials without overwhelming choices. Basically, there’s only one suitcase available in two different sizes: the 35 L Cabin Travel Case and an 80 L Check-In Travel Case .

Unlike RIMOWA and MVST, Sterling Pacific luggage is crafted exclusively from aerospace-grade aluminum and Italian full-grain leather – from the body down to the wheel housings and reinforced corners; there’s no sign of plastic in sight. Moreover, the cases feature a unique rectangular shape for easy packing and a two-wheel design, which the brand says is “built to withstand excessive wear and tear”. I found these details a little bit odd at the beginning, but now I’m completely in love with my Sterling Pacific carry-on’s big, smooth wheels and trunk-style packing layout (there’s one deep main compartment).

For those torn between the allure of RIMOWA and the innovation of MVST Select, Sterling Pacific offers a compelling middle ground, combining the best of both in a package that’s both elegant and enduring. Add a lifetime warranty, complimentary repair services, and a unique Batch Identification Number on each case, and you have a spectacular piece of luggage for those seeking unparalleled quality with a touch of exclusivity.

If you’re on the hunt for a stylish aluminum carry-on suitcase, dive into my article, where I’ve meticulously selected and showcased the best aluminum carry-on luggage for discerning travelers like you.

Advantages of Having an Aluminum Suitcase

From my personal experiences, here are the distinct advantages:

  • Durability: Aluminum is known for its strength. These suitcases can withstand a considerable amount of rough handling – a huge perk for frequent travelers.
  • Aesthetically Pleasing: With their shiny and sleek finish, aluminum suitcases are a true style statement.
  • Weather Resistance: Rain, sleet, or snow, aluminum luggage can weather it all. Your belongings remain dry and safe no matter the conditions outside.
  • Temperature Regulation: Aluminum has a unique ability to reflect heat, ensuring that the contents of your suitcase stay cool, even when left in the sun.
  • Easy Maintenance: Aluminum suitcases are a breeze to clean. A simple wipe-down is all it takes to keep it looking brand new.

The Flip Side: Disadvantages to Consider

While I am a staunch advocate for aluminum luggage, it’s only fair to present some disadvantages:

  • Weight: Aluminum suitcases tend to be heavier than their fabric and polycarbonate counterparts. If weight restrictions are a concern, you may need to pack lighter.
  • Dents and Scratches: Though they’re robust, aluminum suitcases are not immune to dents and scratches. However, some wear and tear often adds character to the suitcase.

Aluminum vs. Polycarbonate Luggage

Aluminum vs. Polycarbonate Luggage

Material Composition : At the heart of the debate between aluminum and polycarbonate luggage lies their material composition. Polycarbonate, a type of thermoplastic, is known for its lightweight nature and flexibility. It can absorb impacts, making it resistant to cracking under stress. On the other hand, aluminum, being a metal, offers a rigid structure, exuding strength and a sleek, modern aesthetic that’s hard to match.

Durability & Protection : While polycarbonate suitcases are durable in their own right and offer some level of flexibility, they can be prone to scratches. Aluminum suitcases, with their robust build, tend to withstand harsher conditions better, offering superior protection for your belongings. However, they might be susceptible to dents upon severe impacts.

Aesthetic & Feel : Aesthetically, polycarbonate can offer a glossy or matte finish and is available in a plethora of colors. Aluminum, with its metallic sheen, often exudes a more premium, sophisticated vibe. Your choice between the two will likely hinge on personal preferences, travel needs, and the statement you wish to make on your journeys.

Still undecided? Consider a suitcase that combines the best of both worlds, namely a light polycarbonate case and a strong aluminum frame, like those in the Monos Hybrid collection .

How durable is aluminum luggage? – Aluminum luggage is among the most durable luggage options available. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, it’s designed to withstand rough handling, harsh weather conditions, and the usual wear and tear from travel. However, like any other material, it isn’t invincible and can show signs of use over time.

How to remove dents from aluminum luggage? – Dents can sometimes occur, despite the toughness of aluminum. To remove them:

  • Use a hairdryer to heat the dented area for about two minutes.
  • Place a piece of dry ice on the dent or spray the area with compressed air (typically used for cleaning computer keyboards)
  • As the aluminum contracts from the cold, the dent should pop back out.
  • Always wear protective gloves when handling dry ice.

What is aluminum luggage made out of? – Aluminum suitcases are predominantly made from aircraft-grade aluminum. This type of aluminum is mixed with other metals to produce an alloy that’s both strong and lightweight. The end result is a material that is perfect for crafting luggage that can stand the test of time and the rigors of travel.

In conclusion, while no suitcase can claim to be perfect for every traveler, aluminum luggage comes pretty close in my book. It’s an investment in peace of mind, ensuring that my journeys, whether for leisure or work, are always hassle-free. The next time you’re in the market for a new suitcase, give aluminum luggage a whirl – I promise you won’t be disappointed.

If you have any further questions or queries about aluminum luggage suitcases, please don’t hesitate to drop a comment below. I’m here to help and will respond as promptly as possible.

Recently made the switch to the MVST TREK Carry-On and wow, what a difference it has made! I can’t get over how tough this thing is, it’s been on quite a few flights now and still doesn’t have a single scratch.

I can only say that I agree. I’m currently using it for testing purposes, and I’m pretty impressed so far. A full review will be published on the website soon.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⢀⣠⣾⣷⣄⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⢠⣤⣤⣤⣤⣾⣿⣿⣿⣿⣦⣤⣤⣤⣤⡄⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣷⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⣀⣤⣴⣾⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣆⡀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠈⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣶⠀ ⠀⠀⢹⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⠋⠘⢿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⡇⠀ ⠀⢀⣾⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⠟⠁⠀⣠⣾⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⡄⠀ ⢀⣾⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⠟⠉⠻⣿⡿⠋⠀⢀⣴⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣷⡀ ⠈⠙⢿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣶⣄⠀⠀⠁⠀⣠⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⠟ ⠀⠀⠀⢹⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣦⣀⣾⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⠟⠁⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⢸⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠸⠿⠿⠿⢿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⣿⡿⠿⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠹⣿⣿⣿⣿⠿⢿⣿⣿⣿⡟⠉⠁⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠙⠟⠋⠉⠀⠈⠙⠻⠟⠁⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

My Sterling Pacific just arrived, and it is a stunning piece of art, for luggage. It is deep and seems have the roominess as advertised.

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Best Carry-On for Most People Travelpro Maxlite 5 Read more

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Best Soft-Shell Carry-On Yeti Crossroads 35L Read more

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Whew! You've made it all the way across the globe. But have your toothbrush, pajamas, and running shoes made it, too? If you're a frequent traveler, it's easy to obsess over the logistics of getting your stuff clean, organized, and in good working condition upon arrival. Paying for a decent travel bag and a few useful accessories means buying a little peace of mind, especially when a few yards of zippers and some nylon are the only barriers between your precious belongings and the belly of an airliner.

Whether you're slinging a duffel into a car trunk for a weekend trip or packing for a whirlwind jaunt across Asia, we've got you covered. Need a bag for your passport or groceries? Don't forget to check out our other guides, like the Best Laptop Backpacks and the Best Recycled Bags , for more picks.

Updated April 2024: We reorganized this guide and added new picks, such as the Yeti Crossroads, Tom Bihn Aeronaut and Trinity, the Frame Carry-On Max, the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, the Camelbak A.T.P. 20, the Calpak Luka Duffel, and the Rux 70. We also updated the information on sizing and checked links and prices.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED. com. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Best Carry-On for Most People

Look around any airport—if you see flight attendants or pilots, they will probably be rolling around a Travelpro suitcase. We like Travelpros because you get a lot of bang for your buck. They're durable, light, and not too expensive.

For only a little over $100, the Maxlite 5 is one of the more affordable Travelpro suitcases, and at 5.4 pounds, it's very light! The exterior toiletry pocket is a nice touch for when you go through security and need to take out your liquids, and the zippers are also quite strong and don't tend to get stuck. The wheels also rolled nicely on both the spinner and roll-aboard versions. Reviewer Matt Jancer did note that the aluminum handle extensions did sometimes stick and the main grab handle on the bag is only single-stitched, which may cause durability issues farther down the line. However, he has seen no issues yet. This probably the best bag you can get in the $100 to $150 price range.

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On

Away's business practices may have raised some eyebrows , but there's no denying that this company changed the travel market entirely. It has increased in price since we first tested it, but multiple WIRED staffers still use the classic Away hard-shell carry-on ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) as their travel suitcase.

Hard-shell suitcases tend to be heavier. There's also not as much give in the case, so you may find it hard to squeeze in more items than in a soft-shell bag, bu they look a lot sleeker than their soft-shell counterparts and protect fragile items better. The Away weighs 7.5 pounds, which is pretty standard for a hard-shell carry-on. When I tested it, I liked that it had multiple height settings and that the polycarbonate shell wiped clean and stayed mostly scuff-free (it helped that my tester was in the darker navy color). Away's suitcases also come with a built-in TSA-approved combination lock, four spinner wheels capable of rotating 360 degrees, and an included laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate from the rest of your stuff. The handle did feel a bit wobbly, though.

★ Alternatives: So many companies now offer a direct-to-consumer, stylish, hard-shell carry-on similar to the Away's. We've tried ones by Monos ($255) and July ($295) . Besides price, the differences are mostly negligible. I like July's aluminum bumpers, but they do add weight. The Monos's handle rolls out more smoothly, but the July's pebbled surface doesn't show scuffs as badly. Both have survived multiple cross-country trips, being checked as baggage, and being ridden on by two small children with no damage.

Paravel also offers an Aviator carry-on ($395) that touts itself as the world's first carbon-neutral carry-on; it has an interior lining made of recycled plastic bottles, a telescoping handle made of recycled aluminum, and vegan leather trim to help it stand out from all the plain black bags at the airport. Product reviewer Jaina Grey fell in love with its roomy interior and durable, anti-scuff hard-shell exterior.

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On

Yeti's coolers and cups are famous for being bomb-proof. The company recently launched a luggage line that's similarly overbuilt. The Yeti Crossroads 35L is a 22-inch roller bag that's carry-on size for most major airlines. It weighs 7.7 pounds, on par with soft-sided competitors of the same size.

I recently spent a week dragging the Crossroads up and down grimy subway station escalators, thumping it across cobblestones, and scrunching it into overfull overhead bins during a trip to London, Paris, and Brussels. The blue 700D nylon on the front and sides looks just as fresh as it did out of the box while the molded polycarbonate shell on the back has a few well-earned battle scratches. The two extra-large fixed wheels are rolling as smoothly as ever and hopped up curbs so well that I grew to favor them over smaller spinner wheels. The Crossroads has a half-dozen well-placed pockets and sturdy zippers that didn't give me any anxiety even as I tugged them hard while smooshing down to fit souvenirs into a carry-on with 8 days of clothing. —Martin Cizmar

Best Bag for a Lifetime

Do you only want to buy one suitcase and never think about it, ever again? Briggs & Riley is one of the few companies with a lifetime unlimited warranty. I bought a Briggs & Riley carry-on as my first and only post-college purchase. Right now, it has lasted over 20 years. Periodically, I bring it into the one Briggs & Riley-approved dealership in my town to get a zipper pull put back on, and it's fixed for free in a few days. Its components are top-of-the-line. The face fabric is a heavy-duty ballistic nylon that’s water-repellent and abrasion-resistant. After having been dragged all over the globe, from the Philippines to Turkey to Iceland, the gleaming red is just as bright.

The low-profile wheels nor handles have never broken. The grab handles are also luxuriously smooth and padded, and there's an interior folding garment bag for my husband's suits. The only downside is that at 9.3 pounds, it’s pretty heavy.

★ Alternatives: If you need an absolutely bomber-tough rolling suitcase and don't mind its 9.6-pound weight, the Pro Front-Access Carry ($799) will stand up to more abuse than most rolling bags, with its aluminum frame and 70-percent-recycled polycarbonate body. WIRED reviewer Chris Haslam says it's his favorite rolling bag in years. Jancer also likes Travelpro's Platinum Elite carry-on ($315) , which he calls one of the most high-end polycarbonate bags on the market.

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metal travel luggage

Best Backpack

When I reviewed the Cotopaxi Allpa in 2018 ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ), it had only recently launched. Now, a half-dozen years later, it is one of the most popular travel backpacks that I see online and in airports all over the world. It's a combination of a camping backpack, a suitcase, and a soft, frameless duffel. You can splay it open like a sandwich to pack it easily; access items through a side zip; put it on your backpack and secure its weight with a sternum strap; or squash or stomp it into any overhead compartment or corner of your car trunk. The use case for this bag is extremely specific—the same people who are bopping around Thailand for several weeks in one backpack are not the same people trying to look professional at a work conference. But it is sturdy and comfortable.

★ Alternative: I took the Ekster Packable Duffel ($250) on several weekend trips this spring, and found that it more than upheld its claims of being built for “smoother journeys, on and off the grid.” This travel bag converts from a backpack to a duffel, with two separate compartments that also splay open for easier packing. The 600-denier exterior and water-resistant zippers are so sturdy that when we ran out of space in the car, we lashed it to the roof rack with surf straps and drove for hours in the rain. It, and its contents, remained pristine.

Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 bag

Best Convertible Bag

Every serious traveler knows the name of Seattle-based Tom Bihn, manufacturer of bomber bags that will last you a lifetime. The Aeronaut 45 is the classic Tom Bihn convertible carry-on, which the size of the maximum allowable carryon bag on a plane.

You get everything from a Tom Bihn bag that you pay for. It’s made of incredibly sturdy 1050 denier ballistic nylon, with bombproof YKK zippers. It has both hidden backpack straps and an extremely comfortable cross-body strap. This is commerce director Martin Cizmar's bag, and he's tossed it around and lugged it down rough streets and through crowds where roller bags are a liability. He owns two and the first lasted for more than a decade. This is the bag that both he and I would use, if we didn't have to constantly test other bags.

Small bag with several zippers 2 handles and 1 strap

Best Personal Item

Some airlines are not content with charging you extra for checking a bag and now charge you for overhead bin space . The Tom Bihn Trinity ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) addresses that problem by providing a space for you to pack everything you need while still fitting underneath the seat in front of you. As the name suggests, it has three main compartments and three ways to carry—either as a briefcase with padded grab handles, a backpack, or as a shoulder bag with two attachment points.

It has three main compartments which can be arranged to your liking; for example, on one of the side compartments, you can zip a water bottle holder into place or unzip it for more room. It wasn't quite as versatile as I expected; I found that I prefer a small duffel with one main compartment that I can organize as I like. However, it does fit under the seat in front of me, even with clothes, laptop, and four (four!) hardcover books that I somehow stuffed inside it.

Lo  Sons OG bag

Best Work Bag

I've been traveling a lot for work and for family reasons in the past few months, and the bag I prefer for my personal item is the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, which is the larger version of the brand's Nouvelle purse ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). It comes in a medium and a large version; the medium is adequate as an everyday bag, but the large turns it into a versatile work/travel bag. It’s low-profile and has both smooth leather grab handles as well as a shoulder strap. I have kicked it under plane seats and around airports, and the nylon doesn't show any damage. There's a hidden separate compartment if you spill water on yourself, and it has sturdy feet so you can put it on an airplane bathroom counter and dig for your makeup without it falling over or getting the bottom of the bag too disgusting. The toothed zippers do tend to crinkle and snatch at your knuckles when the bag gets overstuffed, but I suppose you could always, uh, avoid overstuffing your bag.

★ Alternatives: We have plenty of recommendations in our guide to the Best Laptop Totes , but we love Lo & Sons. The Catalina Supreme Tote ($338) is also great for weekend trips. Again, there's also a bottom compartment for a pair of shoes, or anything else you need to keep separate.

Camelbak A.T.P. 2.0 Backpack

The Best Hiking Daypack

The Camelbak A.T.P. is so useful that I’m always startled to realize it only has a 20-liter capacity. I have it in the 100 percent recycled white color, which saves water and only emits half the greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating the dying process. It’s a panel loader, which means you can unzip the top and see exactly where everything goes, like a duffel. This is convenient when packing for trips—I was able to fit clothes, a Dopp kit, and electronics for an overnight trip. (I know these types of zippers fail more often than top loaders, but it does make it easier to arrange and sort items near the bottom of the pack.)

I particularly like how narrow it is. It fits my back and goes under airplane seats that even my children’s backpacks can’t. The bottle pocket has a zipper that makes it expandable so it can fit a little coffee thermos or my giant Yeti water bottle . Exterior compression straps also help squeeze my clothes even smaller. This is a great backpack if you want something that looks sleek enough for a work bag but is durable enough to take on a weekend trip to Yosemite.

★ Alternative: I also love the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack ($149) . This 25-liter bag is the perfect combination work/adventure bag. The suspended 15-inch laptop pocket clips shut, and the rest of the pockets are thoughtfully placed. It’s extremely light (a little over a pound) and is made from 100 percent recycled ripstop fabric.

REI CoOp Big Haul 40L duffel bag

Best Duffel Bag

The Big Haul ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is our favorite duffel because it hits the right balance of robust build materials and pockets without being too heavy to lug around all day. The standout feature of the Big Haul series, which comes in 28-liter to 120-liter options, is the ability to easily reposition the carrying straps, which feature plastic fishhook-style ends that slip into fabric loops. You can connect one strap end-to-end or double up on two straps in an H pattern for more stability with heavy loads. Adding and removing the straps isn't super fast, but it's not difficult, either, and six low-profile loops seems less intrusive than six rattling plastic buckles.

Two small interior pockets and an exterior pocket keep small things organized, and its water-resistant fabric is thick and tough without being stiff. All the sewing around the grab handles feels very robust too. Padded backpack straps hide away under a padded pocket on the top of the bag. This means that when you sling the Big Haul over your shoulders to give your arms a rest, your back is against the relatively clean top of the duffel, rather than a wet, dirty bottom side that's been set down on the ground. The current iteration of the Big Haul is also made with recycled nylon. What's not to love? —Matt Jancer

★ Alternative: For slightly more money, the classic duffel in this category is the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel ($159) , which also comes in a variety of colorways and sizes. You can either carry it by the grab handles or with the shoulder straps, and it's made from 100 percent recycled polyester with a TPU-film laminate. I (Adrienne) have had the 40-liter version for almost 15 years now and the laminate has yet to peel. It also fits as a carry-on on flights.

Red Oxx travel bag

The Best Expedition Bag

If you like outdoor sports, you probably need a good expedition bag—that is, a huge, burly duffel that you can just throw all your pointy ice axes, trekking poles, or camp chairs into that you can take anywhere and everywhere. Reviewer Matt Jancer's expedition bag of choice is the Red Oxx PR5. He's used it for whitewater paddling trips and to lug mountain climbing equipment from coast to coast without a single frayed thread. Everything about Red Oxx is overbuilt. The zippers are huge, its thick pieces of nylon webbing are robustly sewn, and chunky metal rings hang the detachable carrying strap. All that said, it's not abominably heavy. At 3.4 pounds it's still lighter than many wheeled bags.

★ Alternative: If you've ever gone to a popular outdoor destination, like Yosemite or Everest, you've probably seen stacks of North Face Base Camp duffels . This is the quintessential expedition bag. My own personal bag is the OnSight Tarmac EPO , but the company no longer exists; I also have a Mountain Hardware duffel ($180) and after 20 years, the coating has finally started to peel.

Rux 70L storage box

Best for Camping

We love everything from Rux; I'm currently testing the waterproof adventure tote ($150) and I use it for everything from my climbing gear, to picnic gear, to bringing my kids' roller skates and soccer balls to the park. I have also leaked an entire water bottle in it and it stayed contained and out of the bottom of my car.

But for camping (or any outdoor pursuit, really), what you need is a Rux storage system , which, as the artist and filmmaker Van Neistat puts it, will help you kit your shit . It holds its frame shape, which means you can stack and organize inside of it just like a box, but it folds down like a bag for easy storage once you're at your destination. It's also light and waterproof and comes with a wide array of accessories . This is an upgrade for everyone who currently sorts their camping, climbing, or snowboarding gear in a series of $5 plastic totes and stacks them in their trunk.

The Frame CarryOn Max Aluminum Edition

The Best Aluminum Suitcase

Perhaps you've seen those Instagram-friendly, shiny aluminum suitcases and wonder whether it's worth the investment. Aluminum is extremely durable and can be machined with precision. That means it will protect your belongings better, and you can close them with latches instead of zippers. Your suitcase will last longer and be more secure— zippers are pretty easy to break into —and generally have fewer points of failure.

In my opinion, the cost-benefit analysis generally weighs against them. Aluminum suitcases are usually heavier and won't flex as much if you have overpacking tendencies, and I find them painfully conspicuous. Any suitcase with a decent warranty policy will painlessly cover any repairs. If you must have one, we like Arlo Skye's the Frame. Arlo Skye was founded by alumni from Louis Vuitton and Tumi, and reviewer Matt Jancer says that everything about the Frame screams robust quality, from the leather grab handles to the combination-lock latches. It also comes with a removable battery bank and has a few more liters of carrying capacity than the similarly-sized Away. The main disadvantage is that the interior organization is a bit lacking.

★ Alternative: Do you want the benefits of an aluminum suitcase without the drawbacks? You might want to consider Monos's Hybrid Carry-On ($325) . You won't fool anyone into thinking you've shelled out for a 100 percent aluminum suitcase, but Jancer notes that it's only a pound or so heavier than the competition and the aluminum frame offered better protection than any 100 percent polycarbonate suitcase that he tried.

Luka Duffel Bag

A Good Emergency Go Bag

To be clear, any bag here could be considered a go-bag—even a grocery bag works when you have to leave the house imminently. But reviewer Nena Farrell used Calpak's duffel for an emergency surgery, and she is kicking herself for not getting it sooner. It was big enough for everything from makeup bags and extra outfits to a massive book and Nintendo Switch, and was comfortable to carry thanks to the large straps.

The shoe compartment was big enough for sandals and slides, but not big enough for shoes with an ankle. It was also a great place to stash haphazard Ziplocs of emergency toiletries and medications. There are some side pockets inside too, plus an exterior side pocket and a pass-through panel to place it on top of your luggage. It was a great hospital companion, but Farrell can't wait to take the Luka somewhere a little more fun.

Solgaard CarryOn Closet Plus luggage

Other Bags We Like

Not every good product can snag a best-in-category title, but there are several more bags we've tested that get our thumbs-up.

Osprey Ozone 40L for $280 : At 4.47 pounds, Osprey claims this bag is the lightest carry-on suitcase. It's also made from 400D recycled bluesign-approved nylon and is treated with DWR. This bag is light enough to easily hoist above my head and has also been checked multiple times.

Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel for $140 : This duffel weighs a scant 2.7 pounds, but the water-resistant fabric and extraordinarily beefy (though plastic) buckles make it a solid bag for adventuring. There's an exterior pocket for storing shoes or dirty clothes. The backpack straps don't tuck away for storage—you have to unclip them—but might be the most well-padded, comfortable straps I've encountered on a duffel. Exterior daisy chains and an interior zippered pocket round out the impressive features list.

Land's End Waxed Canvas Duffel for $180 : Most duffel bags these days are made of nylon, and while it's tough to call a material that's been popular since the 1940s “modern,” nylon bags don't have the old-school charm that this waxed canvas bag does.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L for $149 : This bag weighs 1 pound, 13 ounces, which is only slightly heavier than air. It also has backpack straps that stow away in a front pocket.

Skyway Epic Carry-On for $160 : At 7.1 pounds, the Epic is an average weight. The handle is a wee bit more finicky than our top pick, and the Travelpro's wheels glide a little more nicely. Still, the Epic is a solid choice.

Target Signature Weekender Bag for $81 : Looking like a cross between a duffel and a handbag, the Weekender has a structure that product reviewer Louryn Strampe says can become overfilled, so keep that in mind if you plan to bring it onto a plane as a carry-on. She appreciates its durability and the many internal pockets for organization, though, and its rather long five-year warranty.

Solgaard Carry-On Closet Plus for $345 : It's a tiny bit over what most airlines list as the maximum dimensions, but the difference is so small that it's accepted 95 percent of the time. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe praises its optional clip-in closet clothing organizer, which makes for efficient packing. The built-in TSA lock is easy to use, and there's an internal power-bank pocket. This suitcase is included in our Favorite Recycled Products guide.

Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On for $200 : This is a hard-side, four-wheeled spinner carry-on made from an outer shell of durable polypropylene. Standout features include an interior fabric made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles and a “WetPak” storage pocket for keeping damp items separated from the rest of your luggage.

Adidas Defender Duffel for $40 : If you're looking for an inexpensive duffel that'll handle some light-duty traveling, this is a good way to save $100. The fabric is significantly thinner and less sturdy than that of other duffels in this guide, and it lacks backpack straps. But for taking on the train or tossing into a car trunk, it'll do the trick.

Eagle Creek Caldera Convertible Backpack

Bags We Don’t Like

Some bags just aren't worth the asking price, especially with so many good alternatives at all price points.

Peugeot Voyages Carry-On Spinner for $595 : What a price tag for a plastic-case suitcase. You can see where Peugeot tried to imbue the Voyages with some luxury, such as the metal riveting and built-in travel locks, but the case felt no more solid than a budget hard-sided bag, and the USB charging port felt cheap, like an outlet you'd find built into a seat in an airport terminal.

Eagle Creek Caldera Convertible International Carry-On for $469 : At 6 pounds, 2 ounces, this bag is a bit heavy. There's a zip-off 19-liter backpack that you can separate from the rest of the 37-liter bag, but when they're zipped together, the combined size doesn't meet carry-on restrictions.

Ebags CTS Carry-On Spinner for $200 : This one wasn't awful, but there are much better options for the money. Its hard plastic sides felt more brittle than the hard-sided plastic Away suitcases. The handle rattles a lot and it didn't roll quite as smoothly as other bags.

portable UrPower Clothes Steamer

A Few Travel Accessories

Once you've got your bag, you'll want to pack it with a few more useful items:

Apple AirTag for $24 : If you have an iPhone, it's one of the best ways to keep a digital eye on your bags. Drop an AirTag into an interior pocket to make sure you and your luggage are reunited at your destination. Don't have an iPhone? We suggest the Chipolo in our guide to the Best Bluetooth Trackers .

Eagle Creek Specter Pack-It Cubes Three-Pack for $35 keep everything inside your bags organized by allowing you to separate it into different cubes, so you won't ever have to hunt through seven pairs of socks to find your bathing suit again.

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case for $75 : Calpak’s viral clear cases come in three sizes and a ton of colors for the edge trims. Reviewer Nena Farrell loved the small size for my gym bag and traveling with a smaller carry-on bag, while the medium was a great size for my daily makeup or larger suitcases.

Troubadour Buddy 2.0 Tech Case for $75 : You probably need a case to organize your spare charging cables and power banks. I've been testing this compact, waterproof, and recycled bag that fits neatly into my personal item.

UrPower Portable Steamer for $24 beats a travel iron because it's far lighter and you don't need to hunt down an ironing board at your hotel. WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano and I both have been using UrPowers for years. For a tiny thing, it's powerful and effective at steaming practically anything. You just need to refill it often.

Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale for $15 is handy when you're packing a heavy bag for an upcoming trip. Use it to weigh your luggage and make sure it's within the weight limits. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even American airlines will be unforgiving about weight for checked bags.

InCase MacBook Sleeves for $50 will keep your laptop from bearing the damage caused by airport security lines. Travel through an airport without a case and it's only a matter of time before a bare laptop or tablet picks up nasty scratches and dents. Check our guide to the Best MacBook Accessories for more.

Carryon luggage in stowaway overhead container on airplane

How to Pick the Right Size Bag

Every airline sets its own dimensional requirements for carry-on baggage, so if you want to be safe, you should check your airline's requirements before packing. But broadly, they're split into two categories: domestic and international.

Domestic flights by US airlines (and a few others) have standardized on 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

International carry-on bag sizes tend to be about 21 inches tall and a bit narrower, but they're all over the place. It's tough, because many international airlines will measure your bags at the airport and reject anything even slightly bigger than the allowed size. If you fly outside the US a lot, you may as well buy a bag sized for international flights.

You'll also want to check each airline's weight limits. They vary wildly, but some international airlines restrict you to 15 or 20 pounds, including the weight of the bag itself. For example, there are some East Asian airlines that limit carry-on bags to 11 pounds. Once you subtract 6 or more pounds for the bag, you're not left with much wiggle room to put stuff inside.

USB cable plugged into removable battery bank on luggage

When to Remove Battery Banks

Battery banks, also known as power banks, are a travel must-have. Whether you're using a tablet to watch movies on your flight or relying on your phone to coordinate rideshares, hotel check-in, and handle your boarding passes, you've got to keep those devices charged and topped up. Many bags offer a removable battery bank that slides into a special pocket or notch of the suitcase.

For carry-on luggage on a flight in the US, you're allowed to bring a lithium-ion battery of 100 watt-hours or less. You don't need to remove it from the suitcase's pocket if you're storing your bag in the overhead bin.

Lithium-ion battery banks are not allowed in checked luggage. If you check your bag or have to gate-check it, make sure to remove the battery bank before you give your suitcase to the gate agent. Slip the battery bank into your purse, backpack, or pocket for the duration of the flight.

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The 11 Best Luggage Brands of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

No matter what size or style you want, these are the best luggage brands to fit your needs.

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In This Article

  • Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

  • Our Decision Process
  • Tips For Buying
  • Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

No matter where you're going or how often you travel, luggage can make or break your trip. It helps with planning, packing, and staying organized while away — and sometimes determines whether you can bring back souvenirs. There's a wide range of checked suitcases, carry-on bags, duffels, weekenders, underseat bags, and backpacks on the market. Beyond that, you've got hardside and softside options with various organizational features. Amid what you might call the Golden Age of luggage, it can be hard to sift through your offerings.

To figure out what brands stand out from the rest, our Travel + Leisure team has tested more than 450 pieces of luggage ranging from carry-ons and checked suitcases to duffels, weekenders, garment bags, and other types of travel bags — assessing capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design through a series of tests and simulations. We've rolled suitcases through obstacle courses, threw them off tables, and hit them with baseball bats to see how well they'd perform in different travel scenarios like rough baggage handlers. We even recreated an airplane set in our New York City lab to lift bags into real overhead bins and underneath seats. We continue testing each bag in our real-life travels for a minimum of six months to make sure it stands up to planes, trains, automobiles, and anything else life may throw at it.

Our team has tested bags from many different brands, and below you'll find our current favorites. We will continue to update this article as we test even more luggage brands and new bags.

Best Overall

Backed by a 10-year warranty, Samsonite luggage is compact yet spacious, easy to maneuver, and exceptionally durable.

Because Samsonite has such a wide variety of designs and price points, some bags perform better than others.

After our most recent set of luggage tests, Samsonite has risen to the top as our favorite overall luggage brand. Samsonite luggage is generally lightweight and compact on the outside, with spacious interiors to maximize packing and a variety of styles to choose from. We especially love the brand for its versatility, with an impressive variety of bags at different price points so you can find whatever suits you whether you're looking for something affordable or luxurious.

The Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-on holds the spot as the best overall carry-on we've ever tested, while the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside takes the cake as our favorite checked suitcase . The Samsonite Bartlett Carry-on Softside Spinner earned perfect scores during our tests, impressing us as a solid softside suitcase for under $100. We also loved the organizational features — including multiple tech sleeves and included packing cubes — of the Samsonite Just Right Carry-on Spinner .

Almost all of the suitcases sustained hardly any damage after we hit them with a baseball bat and shoved them off a table. Samsonite luggage also maneuvers without a fuss, even on carpeted floors and gravel. Prices are more than reasonable, and while you'll have to make any returns within 30 days, the brand backs its products with a 10-year warranty.

The Details: 30 day return policy | 10-year warranty

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Best Overall, Runner-up

The suitcases are durable, smooth-rolling, and spacious, and the brand has a generous 100-day return policy.

Some are harder to pull on two wheels, and the checked models are a bit heavy. 

All Travelpro luggage we tested earned high scores for maneuverability, durability, capacity, and overall design. The brand's hardside and softside models were a hit in the T+L lab, and there are both carry-on and checked options with spacious interiors and expandable capacities. We also appreciated the various organizational features, like zipper panels, cross straps, and pockets.

With self-aligning spinner wheels and sturdy telescoping handles, Travelpro luggage is also easy to maneuver on hard floors, carpet, and even gravel (though some suitcases are slightly harder to roll on two wheels than four, especially when packed full). We particularly love the Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Expandable Hardside Spinner with its sleek wheels and a textured handle that helps maintain a comfortable grip, and we think the Travelpro x Travel + Leisure Large Check-In Trunk Spinner makes a stylish investment piece if you're looking for something large, durable, and built to last. Even Travelpro's rolling garment bag impressed with its high capacity for the size. And, while the carry-ons are generally lightweight, one thing to note is that the larger checked models weigh almost twice as much when empty.

After shoving the suitcases off a table and whacking them with a baseball bat, we were pleasantly surprised by their durability. We only noticed a couple superficial marks — no scratches or dents, and nothing that wouldn't wipe clean. Travelpro offers a generous 100-day return policy and backs its luggage with warranties ranging from 10 years to a lifetime, though it can be difficult to connect with their customer service department to initiate returns or repair requests at times.

The Details: 100 day return policy | 10-year to lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best for Staying Organized

Away Travel

Beyond aesthetic appeal, Away flaunts plenty of pockets and compartments that keep all of your items in place.

The hardside suitcases might scratch under heavy use.

Away luggage has a minimalist-modern aesthetic and a sophisticated yet practical appeal. We're huge fans of the brand's suitcases and weekenders and particularly love The Everywhere Bag that's perfect for overnight trips, quick weekend adventures, and use as a personal item on longer trips. The checked baggage and hardside carry-on luggage pieces are light yet durable and easy to wipe clean. They didn't sustain any dents from our baseball bat tests, but there were a few scratches after we shoved them off a table. There are so many sizes to choose from, including one of our favorite trunks we've ever tested. We liked the dual main compartments, compression systems, expanders, and dirty laundry satchels of the roller bags.

The suitcases were a breeze to maneuver on their 360-degree spinner wheels, and carrying The Everywhere and The Garment Bag was comfortable with the padded shoulder straps. The Garment Bag also has interior padding that keeps all of your longer clothing items protected and helps to minimize wrinkles. Away is certainly not the cheapest luggage brand out there, but it's also far from the most expensive. Considering the 100-day return window, lifetime warranty, and stylish designs, we wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to pretty much any traveler.

The Details: 100 day return policy | Lifetime warranty

A perfect choice for organized travelers, Paravel luggage has lots of added features and a sophisticated appeal.

The suitcases don't expand, and the lighter colors are prone to scuffing.

Perfect for organized travelers , Paravel takes the cake for additional features. We loved the dual compartments, many pockets, dividers, and removable laundry bags. While the suitcases don't expand, the compression pads make fitting everything a cinch. The Paravel Aviator Carry-on Plus was one of our top carry-on bags thanks to its sleek design, roomy interior that makes packing a breeze, and slick wheels that were great on every surface. We also love the super cute Paravel Mini Fold-up Backpack that earned perfect scores in every category, as well as our pick as best overall mini backpack . Not only does the bag fold up small so you can pack it in larger bags, but it also has a high capacity that can even fit a tablet, making it the perfect eye-catching style to wear on any vacation.

Most Paravel luggage pieces held up well during our durability tests, though the lighter-colored hardside models are prone to scuffing. The suitcases are also easy to pull, push, and roll over various flooring materials. What's more, Paravel luggage is undeniably stylish with a sophisticated appeal and a cool mid-century flair. Prices are somewhat steep, but in the end, we think it's worth the investment.

People / Jhett Thompson

Most Spacious

Delsey Paris

The brand's large-capacity suitcases are impressively spacious yet lightweight, with built-in expanders and smooth-rolling wheels.

The hardside models are prone to scuffing.

Delsey is a go-to for large-capacity luggage . This brand carries both hardside and softside suitcases, including surprisingly spacious carry-ons and checked baggage in multiple sizes so you can find the best design for your needs. We were thrilled by how much they fit, noting that they could easily pack all items on our packing list with room to spare, even without expansion functions.

The suitcases maneuver well on their four spinner wheels, even over carpet, cracks, and bumps. Most models are also lightweight, so lifting them into an overhead bin is no problem. We checked the Chatelet Air 2.0 Carry-on and matching Chatelet Air 2.0 Medium Checked bag on four different long-haul international flights and each time they made it to the luggage carousel with only minor scuffs that were easily wiped away. We appreciate Delsey's accessible price points, plus the brand backs its luggage with warranties ranging from five to 10 years.

The Details: 30 day return policy | 5-to-10-year warranty

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Colors

They come in both neutrals and so many colorful designs, including limited-edition options.

Some of the carry-ons are on the smaller size.

You’ll feel like a kid in a candy store with all of the colorful suitcase options from July — and if you tend to gravitate toward neutrals, July has those, too. After we tested over a dozen bags in our lab on on our airplane set, some of our favorites included the July Carry On (includes a portable charger), the July Checked Plus (the largest suitcase in July’s range), the July Checked Plus Light (a great lightweight option), and the July Trunk Set (a stylish, zipperless two-piece set). 

We found the bags to be very durable against our baseball bat tests, although we noticed that the bags with aluminum corner bumpers tended to scuff more easily specifically on the corners. One of our favorite features was that some bags, including the Carry On Pro SnapSleeve , feature a multi-stop telescopic handle that you can adjust to 20 different heights, when many suitcase handles only stop at three heights.

Different bag styles are available in different colorways, and you can choose from delightful shades of blues, greens, pinks, reds, shadow lavender, plum, yellow, sand, and more, most of which will easily stand out on any baggage carousel. We did notice that some of the carry-ons tend to be much more spacious than others, so be sure to check the dimensions to find a size that will fit everything you need.

The Details: 100 day return policy | Limited lifetime warranty on luggage; 5-year warranty on soft bags and accessories; 2-year warranty on small leather goods

Best for Smaller Bags

Calpak luggage is compact yet still spacious enough to hold the essentials, and maneuvering it is a piece of cake.

The two-year warranty is substantially shorter than most other brands.

If you're looking for something you can stash in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you, Calpak might be your best bet. We loved the duffles, backpacks, and suitcases with a particular appreciation for the Hue Mini Carry-on Luggage , our best overall underseat bag . We love that it glides smoothly, has a sturdy exterior, and can even fit a laptop, making it perfect for weekend getaways or even business trips.

Even when packed full, we found each Calpak suitcase to roll beautifully on both two wheels and four. We also like the Compakt Small Garment Bag , which is perfect to transport of one or two formal pieces inside a carry-on suitcase. The Stevyn Duffel Bag was very comfortable to tote with its shoulder strap and features a separate shoe compartment to keep your items clean if you're in the market for something smaller. Though the two-year warranty is shorter than most other brands, we think Calpak's prices are more than fair.

The Details: 30 day return policy | 2-year warranty

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Budget

Amazon basics.

Amazon's luggage is not just budget-friendly but also lightweight and sturdy with unexpectedly large capacities.

Color options are limited, and the suitcases don't have USB ports or other smart features.

We can confidently tell you there's much more to love about Amazon Basics luggage than a budget-friendly price tag. The Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner also landed on our list of the best lightweight luggage after earning a perfect score in all categories. We especially love that even though it is a light suitcase, it's sturdy with wheels that easily maneuver over gravel and carpeting. More pockets would have been appreciated, but both the carry-on and checked models easily fit everything on our packing list without the expanders, which adds another 15 percent to the capacity.

The hardside suitcases have extra-thick thermoplastic shells that passed our durability tests with flying colors — no scratches or dents in sight. They were generally easy to maneuver, too, albeit a little more difficult on gravel. Color options are limited, and while most Amazon Basics carriers don't have TSA locks or smart features, the designs exceeded our expectations.

The Details: 30 day return policy | 3-year warranty

Best Splurge

This splurge-worthy luggage brand boasts expandable main compartments, ample pockets, impact-resistant exteriors, and smooth spinner wheels.

The price might be hard to justify, and the checked bags are somewhat heavy when empty.

If you want the crème de la crème of luggage, Tumi is where it's at . The suitcases and underseat bags fared better than the duffel we tested, but all in all, we were impressed. Our favorite by far is the Alpha International Expandable 4-wheeled Carry-on that looks compact but includes plenty of organizational compartments and even comes with its own removable garment bag. There was plenty of space to pack everything on our list in every Tumi bag, even without the expanders. This brand also stands out for its organizational, smart, and security features. We're talking ample pockets, removable garment bags, laptop sleeves, USB ports, lockable zippers, and TSA-approved locks.

Whether you go softside or hardside, you can count on reliable durability — we even jumped on the bags and rode on top of them and not one feature broke or dented. We observed virtually no scuffs or scratches after whacking the bags with a baseball bat. Tumi luggage is easy to maneuver, thanks to the spinner wheels, but bear in mind the checked sizes are pretty heavy when empty. If you can swing the steep price, we think the brand is an excellent choice for long trips, frequent fliers , and those who like to stay organized.

The Details: 30 day return policy | 5-year warranty

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Most Durable

Briggs & riley.

Briggs & Riley

With ballistic nylon or shock-absorbing polycarbonate exteriors, Briggs & Riley suitcases can really take a beating.

This is one of the more expensive brands, and the checked models are slightly heavy when empty.

The most durable luggage we tested comes from Briggs & Riley . The brand carries softside suitcases with ballistic nylon exteriors that resist premature wear and tear, as well as hardside models like the Sympatico Domestic Carry-on Expandable Spinner with shock-absorbing polycarbonate shells that promise to protect your cargo from getting crushed. We were impressed by how well they stood up to our shoves and bat swings — no dents or scratches to speak of.

Durability aside, Briggs & Riley suitcases roll effortlessly on hard floors and carpet, over bumps, and around tight corners. They also have decent capacities, many with built-in expanders. This is one of the more expensive luggage brands, but it's backed by a lifetime guarantee. We wouldn't be surprised if the suitcases last 10 or more years. Not only that, but there are a few options for remedying potential damage, including self-repair kits, authorized repair centers, or shipping back to Briggs & Riley for a tune-up.

The Details: 30 day return policy | Lifetime warranty

People / Tamara Staples

Best Design

Thoughtfully designed, each Béis bag we tried comes with extra, often removable, features so you can customize your packing.

These are large bags and we had a hard time fitting some weekenders under airplane seats.

Shay Mitchell's luggage brand quickly won our hearts with each bag's thoughtful design, customizable inserts, and removable compartments. The bags are certainly large and can fit everything you need for a long vacation or quick weekend getaway — just be mindful that not all of the duffel-style bags will work as personal items. The Weekender is one of our favorites: like Mary Poppins' bag of wonders, this tote seems to expand as you pack it, fitting every item on our list.

When it comes to rolling bags, the 29-inch Large Check-in Roller is our best checked bag for organization . Similar to its weekenders, carry-on bags, and backpacks, Béis' check-in bag is huge and can fit everything you need and more. All of the Béis suitcases we tested also sported durable wheels that smoothly navigated different types of surfaces without gettings tuck, as well as easy-to-use handles that make running through the airport a breeze.

The Details: 45 day return policy | Limited lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure/

Other Luggage Brands We Liked

Even though these brands did not make our main list, they still have some worthwhile suitcases and bags to consider.

Monos :  Monos items have a nice, sleek look that are generally easy to maneuver. However, when we tested its large check-in suitcase, we found that it carried less items than some of its competitors.

Arlo Skye :  We love this brand's smooth design and stand-out colors, but considering the higher price-point, these bags don't roll quite as smoothly as some other brands.

Roam : We're big fans of Roam's The Check-in hardside suitcase as well as the designs of other Roam bags; however, after one-month of real-world travels, we found these luggage pieces to be more prone to scratching than other brands we tried.

The T+L team has tested more than 450 pieces of luggage, including carry-ons, checked suitcases, duffels, weekenders, garment bags, backpacks, and more in our New York City testing facility. We've tried at least six models from many top-rated brands, performing a range of assessments to evaluate the capacity, maneuverability, durability, design, and overall value. We weighed each bag, then packed it with enough clothes and personal items to get through a four-day trip (more for the larger checked bags).

To see how the luggage would perform in a real-life environment, we rolled them on different flooring materials, across gravel and carpets, over bumps, and around corners. We also threw each piece off a table and whacked it a few times with a metal baseball bat to test for potential wear and tear and how prone it was to scratching or denting. In addition, we recreated an airplane set in our lab, where we hoisted the carry-on suitcases into real overhead bins and stuffed them underneath seats to see how easy they were to lift and how portable they felt.

After lab testing, each suitcase and bag was sent out for real-world testing, and our T+L editors brought the bags on vacations, weekend trips, and overnighters. To test each bag's true durability, convenience, and longevity, we tested each bag on planes, trains, buses, and even cruise ships, checking in after one month, three months, and six months to give our feedback. Considering standout features, size, and price, we created categorized ranked lists of every luggage piece we tested. The luggage brands with the highest average ratings were ultimately chosen for this list of our favorites, which we will continue to update as we test eve more luggage.

How We Chose These Brands

The T+L team tested at least six bags per brand on our winners list to ensure a broad sample size. We tested underseat luggage , checked luggage, and carry-on luggage as well as duffel bags, garment bags, and backpacks, and gave each individual bag a score based on its capacity, design, durability, maneuverability, and overall value.

Next, we created rankings based on the total average scores of all the bags we tested for that brand. We also thoroughly read through all of the tester insights on each luggage item from these three tests to evaluate each bag's details and features. Finally, we determined whether or not we would recommend a bag and its overall brand.

Tips for Buying Luggage

Get to know the brand.

When it comes to researching a new luggage brand, you're already well on your way. For more information on a specific brand, you can check out its website, read customer reviews on products you like, or even take a peek at the items in person. Buying new luggage (whether a singular piece or luggage set ) can be a pricey investment, so be sure you like a brand's style, warranty options, and overall quality before you make that purchase. This is especially important when it comes to splurging on luxury luggage pieces .

Know your organizational preferences

Material and size are important, but some of the best luggage brands stand out for their organizational features. This may include dual main compartments, various pockets, a shoe separator, zippered sections, a toiletry bag , a removable laundry bag, a garment bag, a laptop sleeve, and maybe even a USB port with a power bank pouch — some Arlo Skye luggage includes the power bank itself. While it's not a top priority for all travelers, this can make packing and accessing your belongings much easier.

Look for durability

The best luggage stands up to wear and tear for several years to come. Both softside and hardside luggage options can be very durable. It's really a matter of whether you want to safeguard your packed items from getting crushed or protect the exterior of the suitcase from superficial blemishes (though many softside and hardside models we tested check all the boxes).

Think about mobility

You should also think about maneuverability. When you're running into the airport to check your bags before heading to security, you'll want a suitcase that doesn't hold you back. Four-wheel spinner suitcases tend to be easier to pull and push over different surfaces compared to suitcases with just two wheels, and they're even better if they have a sturdy telescoping handle. Grab handles and padded straps are ideal for other types of luggage, and a lightweight design will make your travel experience much easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

You'll see a range of hardside and softside models when browsing luggage, and many of the best brands offer both. What you purchase really comes down to personal preference. Some people appreciate how crush-resistant hardside suitcases protect their belongings. They're also easy to wipe clean and have a sleek, modern appearance.

On the other hand, softside suitcases are typically (but not always) lighter in weight and more flexible, so you can often pack more in them. After testing both types, we can tell you they're often just as durable as hardside options, and they won't dent like hardside bags do. Although a textile exterior might be trickier to clean, it can be better at concealing scuffs and dirt. Regardless of the type of luggage, you can find several effective products to clean suitcases available.

Size limits for carry-on luggage vary among airlines . That said, most allow suitcases no larger than 24 inches tall, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. Some are a little more strict, with limits set around 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Keep this in mind if your suitcase has an expander, as the additional inch or two could put it over the allowed size limit. We recommend checking the airline's website if you're not sure whether your luggage will pass as a carry-on.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, commerce writer Theresa Holland pored over our in-house testing insights, checked return policies, read the fine print for warranties, and evaluated price ranges to create a comprehensive roundup of the best luggage brands out there today.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

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The 24 Best Travel Tote Bags for Your Next Big Trip

Whether it's your only bag or a carry-on supplement, a travel tote will take your packing game to the next level.

travel tote bags

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Medium Metro Tote Deluxe

T&C Tried and True

Medium metro tote deluxe.

Catalina Deluxe Tote

Separate Compartment for Organization

Lo & sons catalina deluxe tote.

Easy Travel Tote

Luxurious Essential

Cuyana easy travel tote.

Packable Tote Bag

Folds Small for Easy Packing

Lululemon packable tote bag.

Large Le Pliage Tote

Classic Tote

Longchamp large le pliage tote.

Travel Duffel Bag with USB Charging Port

Everyday to Travel Tote

Etronik travel duffel bag with usb charging port.

The ReNew Transit Weekender

Minimalist and Functional

The renew transit weekender.

Travel Tote Bag

Bargain Bag

Bluboon travel tote bag.

The Shopper Tote

Madewell The Shopper Tote

Boat and Tote

Heavy Lifter

Boat and tote.

Whatever your travel needs for the season ahead, odds are that a good tote can make your packing life more organized, and less stressful—honestly, what more could you hope for? With that in mind, we've scoured the internet for the more durable, functional travel totes for every type of traveler, from the serial overpacker to the organization fiend. Here, our favorite finds for all of your journeys.

Perpetually trying to find space in your carry-on for one last thing? Meet what one T&C editor calls, "the personal item of every overpacker's dream." Featuring five exterior pockets, plus six on the interior and an detachably pouch, it will keep all of your travel essentials organized while it's sturdy-yet-lightweight construction makes it easy to tuck in "just in case" items to your hearts desire without overwhelming your arms.

The cushy, reinforced straps are easy on the shoulders, but it also has a detachable crossbody strap and a built-in sleeve to slip over the handle of your luggage if you don't feel like toting. It also comes in four sizes (we're fond of the medium for it's ability to hold oodles of stuff while still slipping neatly beneath the seat in front of you on a plane) and a seasonally-refreshed roster of more than a dozen shades, making it as stylish as it is functional.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

For the "a place for everything and everything in its place" traveler, this tote has you covered with a zippered bottom pocket that's perfect for separating out toiletries or dirty shoes from the rest of your haul (an interior panel also allows you to open the bottom compartment fully, if you're craving a deeper bag.)

Available in recycled poly or sturdy canvas, at 15" x 14" x 7", it qualifies as a personal item for most airlines and has a handy luggage sleeve to pair with your suitcase. For those looking for larger options, it comes in four additional sizes as well.

Cuyana bags are a favorite of T&C editors and royals alike ( Meghan Markle is a big fan ) for their timelessly stylish silhouettes, buttery soft leather, and effortless functionality. This, their latest launch, is made specifically with travel in mind.

Crafted with lightweight, durable pebbled leather (currently available in four colorways) it offers ample interior space (a 37L volume, to be precise) plus two large pockets, a phone slip, and a key clip, as well as snaps for Cuyana devotees who want to mix in their System Flap Bag or System Zipper Pouch .

If you're more of a "shop when you get there" traveler, this bag brings the souvenir space without taking up lots of room in your primary bag. Water-repellant and roomy (it holds 32L by volume) it features rugged shoulder straps, plus an extra strap that lets it slip over the handle of roller luggage, and can fold into its own exterior pouch when not in use to make a tidy, handheld bundle.

Some things are classic for a reason. Case in point: this timeless Longchamp tote; just ask T&C 's associate shopping editor, Sophie Dweck, who's been carrying hers for over a decade . Made from sleek, easy-to-clean nylon that comes in a cornucopia of colors, it features a simple, spacious interior and strong leather straps that ensure it can stand up to anything your travels throw at it, and look good doing it.

Looking for a tote that's as useful in your day-to-day as it is when you're far away? This multi-use tote has racked up thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon for its versatility. A separate, vented shoe compartment makes it as friendly to gym sessions as beach trips, while its multiple pockets keep essentials organized. It also includes a luggage strap and a USB charging port so you can plug in your tech without rummaging through your bag for your battery pack, and comes in two sizes and almost 30 shades so it will match your travel style.

One reviewer writes: "I must say, it exceeded my expectations in every way! This bag is the perfect blend of style and functionality, making it a must-have for any woman on the go."

Type-A packers, take note: this 100% recycled polyester is all about options. Its four colorways can be worn crossbody, carried in hand, or over the shoulder, and include a zippered exterior pocket, a luggage sleeve, two water bottle holders, and a padded laptop sleeve—all with Everlane's signature modern minimalist vibe.

Available in 20 colorways and textures, this canvas tote features a luggage sleeve that also doubles as a tech pouch so your gadgets will always be at the ready. The sturdy construction and bargain price tag have made it a hit with reviewers, who site its roomy 16.5" x 9" x 14" size and comfort.

One reviewer writes: "I am so happy with this purchase! Reasonable price, large main compartment, and a few zip compartments to organize smaller items. Bag fits perfectly under airline seat, even when stuffed FULL. It stayed in place when I had it on top of my roller bag, and I noticed the shape of it kept it from making everything tip forward (which happened with my previous bag)."

For a travel bag that you can use as a purse all trip, this simple Madewell leather tote brings a perfect mix of style and space (12.75" x 12.75" x 7.5".) It even comes with an interior strap that allows you to change the shape, and doubles as a keyring.

True L.L. Bean lovers know that the brand's classic Boat and Tote bag is hard to beat—after all, it's been one of their signature styles since 1944. Crafted from rugged cotton canvas, it's tested to hold up to 500 pounds, so no matter how much you manage to overpack, this bag is guaranteed to take it on. And with four sizes and two interior lengths to choose from, as well as a dozen colors, there's a perfect one for all your needs.

Caraa Studio Tote

Studio Tote

Whether you prefer a classic tote style or a backpack, this Italian leather bag gives you the best of both worlds. Along with the usual amenities (a slew of pockets, adjustable straps) it also has a collapsible waterproof shoe pocket for those days your travel plans call for a quick change.

More: The 18 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

Béis The Convertible Weekend Bag

The Convertible Weekend Bag

This tote brings two-for-one power with a removable bottom compartment that can be used as is, or as a separate packing cube. Easy to clean polyester and polyurethane make it a cinch to keep looking like new, with a built-in luggage sleeve and removable laptop sleeve give it plenty of function for that rush through TSA.

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Tote

Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Tote

Some people pack an extra suitcase when traveling abroad. We propose this packable Tumi tote instead. It folds out to an impressive 8" x 14" x 8 size when fully opened and weighs less than a pound, so you can shop to your heart's content while getting those passport stamps.

More: The 13 Best Luggage Brands for Every Type of Traveler

Carhartt Legacy Tote East/West

Carhartt Legacy Tote East/West

Built to work hard, this water-repelling polyester Carhartt bag is tough enough to handle all of your travel adventures. It includes two exterior pockets as well as an interior divider and pockets, so it's and functional on the inside as it is on the outside.

One reviewer writes: "Even better than expected! I used it as my personal item for a trip to Mexico…placed my purse, tablet, magazines, etc inside…lots of pockets! Hides dirt, wipes off easily, very well made."

Revive Nylon Large Tote

Revive Nylon Large Tote

Available in five-shades, this nylon tote (made with fabric crafted from 27 recycled water bottles with recycled leather trim) has jumbo exterior slip pockets (plus three interior pockets and a keyring) and a built-in padded laptop sleeve to match its roomy interior with organization.

One reviewer writes: "Great color, roomy, lots of pockets to keep things organized and easy to locate. Perfect for work and travel. Very happy with it."

Dagne Dover Jemi Tote

Jemi Tote

Want a travel tote that makes a style statement? Bring your puffer coat style to your bag with this versatile, vegan tote made from recycled plastic water bottles. At less than a pound and half (it holds 16.2 L volume), it's super lightweight, and has two sets of comfy handles—one for hand-held use and one for shoulder use—plus a luggage sleeve, so it's great no matter your travel style.

Naghedi Jet Setter Small Tote

Naghedi Jet Setter Small Tote

Fully lined, basket-woven neoprene brings beautiful texture to this travel tote, making it ideal for those situations when you have to go straight from the plane to an event. It also has a zip closure and zippered interior pocket to ensure that your stuff stays in place even on the wildest travel days.

Scout Travel Bag Large

Travel Bag Large

You want all of the weight in your travel bag to be from your must-haves, not from the bag itself. This colorful version from Scout (it comes in half a dozen colors and patterns) is a featherlight 1 pound, yet can hold up to 65 pounds of your gear, and can fold flat when not in use. It also comes with a zipper pocket and reinforced bottom so everything you pack stays comfortable where you want it.

Barbour Medium Travel Explorer Leather Tote Bag

Medium Travel Explorer Leather Tote Bag

The biggest name in waxed cotton jackets brings their British heritage sensibility to travel with this luxe 100% leather tote. Measuring 17.72'' x 14.96'', it comes with sturdy top handles and an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.

More: The 13 Best Luxury Luggage for Traveling in Style

WONHOX Large Travel Tote Bag

Large Travel Tote Bag

This waterproof travel tote features a luggage sleeve, three interior pockets, including a special compartment to separate wet and dry items (looking at you, still-damp swimsuit) and four external pockets, as well as a zip-open expansion on the bottom so your bag can be as big, or small, as you need.

One reviewer writes : "Schlepped this bag all over Europe and it holds a surprising amount of stuff! The little expander area on the bottom really helped me squeeze in a few extra souvenirs. The trolley sleeve is a MUST from now on. It hooks on to your roller suitcase so easily and is sturdy! I was throwing my baggage up on the train, in and out of taxis and through many airports easy peasy."

Headshot of Lauren Hubbard

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

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The trains and stations of the Moscow Metro

2 Comments · Posted by Alex Smirnov in Cities , Travel , Video

The Moscow Metro is the third most intensive subway system in the world after Tokyo and Seoul subways. The first line was opened on May 15, 1935. Since 1955, the metro has the name of V.I. Lenin.

The system consists of 12 lines with a total length of 305.7 km. Forty four stations are recognized cultural heritage. The largest passenger traffic is in rush hours from 8:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 19:00.

Cellular communication is available on most of the stations of the Moscow Metro. In March 2012, a free Wi-Fi appeared in the Circle Line train. The Moscow Metro is open to passengers from 5:20 to 01:00. The average interval between trains is 2.5 minutes.

The fare is paid by using contactless tickets and contactless smart cards, the passes to the stations are controlled by automatic turnstiles. Ticket offices and ticket vending machines can be found in station vestibules.

metal travel luggage

Tags:  Moscow city

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Yaroslavsky railway station, Moscow stowing away

The bridge over Zolotoy Rog Bay in Vladivostok

The views of St. Petersburg from the TV tower >>

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Tomás · August 27, 2012 at 11:34 pm

The Moscow metro stations are the best That I know, cars do not.

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Alberto Calvo · September 25, 2016 at 8:57 pm

Great videos! Moscow Metro is just spectacular. I actually visited Moscow myself quite recently and wrote a post about my top 7 stations, please check it out and let me know what you think! :)

http://www.arwtravels.com/blog/moscow-metro-top-7-stations-you-cant-miss

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LUGGEX 28 Inch Luggage with Aluminum Frame, 95L Polycarbonate Zipperless Checked Large Luggage, Hard Shell Suitcase 4 Metal Corner

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LUGGEX 28 Inch Luggage with Aluminum Frame, 95L Polycarbonate Zipperless Checked Large Luggage, Hard Shell Suitcase 4 Metal Corner

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Dark Blue

2-Piece Set (20/26)

Carry-On 20-Inch

Checked-Medium 26-Inch

Checked-Medium 24-Inch

Checked-Large 28-Inch

Purchase options and add-ons

About this item.

  • Size: 29.9x21.1x12.2 IN, Weight: 13.6 LB, Capacity: 95L
  • Seamless Closure: Our no zipper luggage offers a unique closure mechanism, distinct from traditional zipper styles. With a simple push, the lock effortlessly unlocks, streamlining your travel experience and eliminating the risk of zipper snags.
  • Robust Carrying Capacity: Crafted from thickened polycarbonate and reinforced with an aluminum alloy frame, our hard sided luggage with spinner wheels boasts exceptional strength and toughness. It withstands damage and deformation even amidst the rigors of travel..
  • Intelligent Interior Design: Featuring a thoughtful interior layout and multiple pockets catering to diverse storage needs, our suitcases with wheels 28 inch facilitates effortless organization of your travel essentials. Enjoy a hassle-free packing experience with ease.
  • Convenient Hook Design: This travel suitcase protruding side hook allows for hanging personal belongings, freeing up your hands for a hassle-free travel experience.
  • Smooth and Silent Wheels: Equipped with 8 smooth-rolling, noiseless wheels, this travel suitcase with wheels ensures stability and effortless gliding, adding an unmatched elegance to your journey through airports and streets.

Additional Information

metal travel luggage

There is a newer style of this item:

LUGGEX 28 Inch Luggage with Spinner Wheels - 83L Polycarbonate Expandable Hard Shell Suitcases Large Checked Luggage (Black Suitcase)

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Buy new: #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-whole { font-size: 28px !important; } #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-fraction, #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-symbol { top: -0.75em; font-size: 13px; } $229.99 $ 229 . 99 FREE delivery Thursday, May 16 Ships from: Amazon Sold by: Smart Luggage

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3 Year Luggage Protection Plan

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  • Easy Claims Process: File a claim anytime online or by phone. Most claims approved within minutes. If we can’t repair it, we’ll send you an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your covered product or replace it.
  • Product Eligibility: Plan must be purchased with a product or within 30 days of the product purchase. Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
  • Terms & Details: More information about this protection plan is available within the “Product guides and documents” section. Simply click “User Guide” for more info. Terms & Conditions will be available in Your Orders on Amazon. Asurion will also email your plan confirmation with Terms & Conditions to the address associated with your Amazon account within 24 hours of purchase.

4 Year Luggage Protection Plan

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  • Past and future purchases covered. 30 days after you are enrolled, all eligible past purchases (up to 1 year prior to enrollment) and future eligible purchases made on Amazon will be covered by your plan as long as you are enrolled.
  • Fast, easy claims. Frustration-free claims, with most filed in minutes. We will fix it, replace it, or reimburse you with an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your product (excluding tax). File at Asurion.com/amazon.
  • No hidden fees. For just $16.99 a month + tax you’re covered for up to $5,000 in claims per 12-month period. *THIS PROGRAM IS MONTH-TO-MONTH AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL CANCELED* Coverage for all products ends 30 days after the plan is canceled. Cancel any time.

Save with Used - Like New #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-whole { font-size: 28px !important; } #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-fraction, #buybox .a-accordion .a-accordion-active .a-price[data-a-size=l].reinventPriceAccordionT2 .a-price-symbol { top: -0.75em; font-size: 13px; } $211.14 $ 211 . 14 FREE delivery Wednesday, May 15 Ships from: Amazon Sold by: Amazon Warehouse

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metal travel luggage

Frequently bought together

LUGGEX 28 Inch Luggage with Aluminum Frame, 95L Polycarbonate Zipperless Checked Large Luggage, Hard Shell Suitcase 4 Metal C

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Honest User Review of luggex checked bag

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How to set your own unique password

Smart Luggage

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Spacious design for well-organized items.

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Travel confidently with the robust box.

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TSA lock combines ease of operation with safety &reliability

Looking for specific info, from the brand.

LUGGEX hard shell luggage hardside luggage hard shell suitcase hardside suitcase white luggage set

More Style in LUGGEX

Product description.

luggage aluminum 28 inch luggage with spinner wheels zipperless luggage 28 inch checked luggage

How do I set the code when I first get it?

1. The original combination is 0-0-0. Switch the Reset Button in the latch from "OFF" to "SET";

2. Turn the Dials to your desired combination (e.g.:8-8-8);

3. Switch the Reset Button to "OFF", and now you can open the lock with the new combination.

Why would the handle of the luggage feel a bit shaky?

After extensive testing, a slight degree of handle movement is to ensure long-term usage.

Due to the principles of thermal expansion and contraction and the lateral forces,

if the handle is too tight, it may become unusable and even cause damage.

What should I do if there is an issue with the luggage received?

For any issues in product & servicing, LUGGEX claims to will keep the luggage in repair for 3 years.

Please let us know via the Amazon email of your order and the related team will respond within 12H.

Is there supposed to be some sort of key included?

The key is not included in the package, it is designed for the customs exam only, it's a standard TSA lock, only the customs have the key to open.

Continuous updated designs to meet different travel styles

Product details.

  • Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 29.5 x 12 x 21 inches; 13.5 Pounds
  • Item model number ‏ : ‎ 8010-GBK28
  • Department ‏ : ‎ Unisex Adult
  • Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ LUGGEX Luggage
  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0B77VC12Y
  • Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ China
  • #192 in Carry-On Luggage

Compare with similar items

Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the size, weight and appearance of the carry-on. For example, they mention it's roomy, has plenty of pockets and the wheels are smooth riding. That said, opinions are mixed on the lock and quality.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the suitcase. They mention it's good looking, nice, and durable. Some appreciate the great color and design.

"...The rivet is missing. Such a shame as it’s beautiful luggage . Both pieces of set are damaged after one use.*..." Read more

" Good looking and durable! Even toddler could help roll (smaller one!)Easy to change code! Will buy more sizes soon!" Read more

"...Only used once, jury still out. Looks very nice though." Read more

" Great color , very sturdy. Wheels turn freely. Aluminum frame greatly enhances item strength." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the size of the suitcase. They mention that it has roomy interior space and plenty of pockets.

"...The 20' is a great size and seems perfect for carry on.- Cant rate Durability or Sturdiness yet, but will up date later after trip.-..." Read more

" Great size . Perfect for a week or so. Well made. Seems sturdy enough." Read more

"...The locks engage securely. There are plenty of pockets and lots of space.Only two criticisms. It is a little heavy at about 8 lbs empty...." Read more

"...They are comfortable to move around. Regarding space, I was able to fit all my clothes for a month's travel without a problem...." Read more

Customers like the wheels of the suitcase. They mention that they are very smooth riding, light, and make it easy to maneuver. They also say that the wheels turn freely.

"Love the look and rolls wonderfully but one trip and a metal corner bumper is coming off. The rivet is missing...." Read more

"Great color, very sturdy. Wheels turn freely . Aluminum frame greatly enhances item strength." Read more

"...Really happy with the way they are and how smooth they are to drag . Definitely worth it!!!" Read more

"...Also the wheels are very smooth riding and they’re very light given the well construction of them." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the weight of the suitcase. For example, they mention it's very light for the size and durability. Some say the 20' is a great size and perfect for carry on.

"...The 20' is a great size and seems perfect for carry on .- Cant rate Durability or Sturdiness yet, but will up date later after trip.-..." Read more

"...The bags feel light and are easy to maneuver. They are comfortable to move around...." Read more

"...Very sturdy and endure some abuse but they are light for the size and durability " Read more

Customers are mixed about the quality of the suitcase. Some mention it's well built, sturdy, and has a beautiful aluminum frame that enhances item strength. However, others say that the wheels came off and the durability of these bags is not that good. The latches are plastic and not feels very reliable.

"- So far it seems like a great set of luggage ...." Read more

"Great size. Perfect for a week or so. Well made . Seems sturdy enough." Read more

"...The wheel came off / broken while I was at the airport. I like how it looks and thought they’re durable. 😩..." Read more

"...worked out very well for she really liked it Wheels roll nice looks good solid " Read more

Customers are mixed about the lock. Some mention that it rolls easy, locks securely, and has outstanding features. However, others say that the clasp locks failed, the locks are flimsy, and wouldn't reset the combination. Some say that both locks came with broken.

"...This bag however, came with both locks broken . The locks are flimsy and wouldn't reset the combination...." Read more

"...The locks engage securely . There are plenty of pockets and lots of space.Only two criticisms. It is a little heavy at about 8 lbs empty...." Read more

"...The third time I used it the latches would not stay latched . Unfortunate as I really like this suitcase...." Read more

"A great suit case with a weak latch. The latch was broken during the first trip on the return flight!=..." Read more

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metal travel luggage

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COMMENTS

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    Luggage & Travel Gear › Luggage › Carry-Ons Add to your order . Coverage for accidental damage including drops, spills, and broken parts, as well as breakdowns (plans vary) ... 95L Polycarbonate Zipperless Checked Large Luggage, Hard Shell Suitcase 4 Metal Corner . Visit the LUGGEX Store. 4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 147 ratings | Search this page .