The best luggage for 2025, according to frequent fliers

Dimensions: 26.5” x 17.75” x 11.75” | Weight: 8.34 lbs | Colors: 10 options

Peter Hamdy, owner and director of a travel tour company, named this crowd-pleasing hardshell as one of his fave pieces, owing to its sleek design and spacious interior. And he’s not its only fan — more than 20,000 Amazon shoppers have given five-star raves. 

It sports 360-degree spinner wheels and side-mounted TSA locks, and comes in a variety of snazzy colors (Burnt Orange! Caribbean Blue!) that'll make it stand out on the luggage carousel ... which will save you time. And don't fret about your gorgeous new suitcase getting dinged up — shoppers confirm that it'll endure even the most rough-and-tumble international treks. 

“It holds a lot and rolls very well. I’ve taken it on six flights so far (filled it up to 48 lbs!) and it has held up great … no damage, no issues,” wrote one five-star reviewer.

Dimensions: 29.5” x 19.25” x 12” | Weight: 9.23 lbs | Colors: 6 options

Sometimes, simple is better, and that’s the case with this U.S. Traveler checked suitcase. Despite being fairly basic, it’s one of travel blogger Serenity Lesley’s go-to suitcases because it’s so spacious that it’s able to house the majority of her belongings. 

Along with two roomy main compartments and four spinner wheels, the bag features a retractable handle system, plus a top and side handle that allow for maximum maneuverability. Bonus: The durable hardshell exterior is waterproof. And at less than $100, well, it's hard to go wrong with this one. 

Dimensions: 27” x 18.5 x 11.5” | Weight: 7.3 lbs | Colors: 5 options

Another one of Hamdy’s top picks was this no-nonsense number. The contour grip handle has been ergonomically designed to be super comfortable when schlepping through crowded airports and train stations. 

It also boasts 360-degree wheels that shoppers say roll like a dream and a water and stain-resistant coating to keep your suitcase looking sharp even after it’s been tossed around in a storage hold. Even better, it has an expansion zipper that will give you two more inches of room, so you can do some serious damage souvenir shopping without worrying about having space to carry home your new goodies.

Dimensions: 31” x 20.6” x 13” | Weight: 13.1 lbs | Colors: 4 options

If you’re looking for a suitcase that will keep everything in its proper place, travel influencer Catarina Mello recommends this sleek Samsonite option. “It's super spacious and comes with integrated pockets and a packing cube that doubles as a compression system. It also has an expansion zipper that has more capacity if you need it, which usually comes in handy on the trip back after buying lots of souvenirs. 

Plus, the hardshell is tough and scratch-resistant, and the wheels are very high quality — the bag rolls smoothly even when packed to the brim,” she told us. It also comes with a removable wetpak and laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate and a zipper repair kit in case you have any issues.

Dimensions: 28.5" x 18" x 12" | Weight: 11.5 lbs | Colors: 1 option

After years of product testing Yahoo Lifestyle Senior Commerce Writer Kristin Granero, says Calpak remains her top travel brand. “The Evry, in particular, boasts a hard polycarbonate case for added durability, internal departments for easy organization and an expandable center zipper — complete with TSA-approved locks — for additional wiggle room,” she said. You can buy this large spinner on its own or shop the brand’s starter pack. Each bundle comes with a large checked bag, a carry-on, a five-piece packing cube set and a luggage tag.

Dimensions: 27" x 17.75" x 13.75" | Weight: 13.5 lbs | Colors: 3 options

If you're planning a trip to wine country and want to bring home a few bottles of your favorite vintage, this clever suitcase is an excellent choice. Designed specifically for wine lovers, this TSA-compliant hardshell suitcase features removable foam inserts that can securely transport up to 12 bottles of wine or spirits.

Our Managing Editor, Scott Simone, has used the VinGardeValise for over two years and highly recommends it. “What's not to love?” he says. “It’s built to fit a dozen bottles of wine, and when you remove the foam inserts, you can pack more than two weeks’ worth of clothes.”

Despite its heavy-duty construction — which includes a durable polycarbonate exterior and reinforced corner guards for impact resistance — Simone finds the suitcase surprisingly lightweight. “I've never gone overweight, even when I packed it with two weeks of clothes and six bottles of alcohol. I did a comparison with my Away suitcase packed with the same stuff, and it was overweight.”

Another bonus? The color options make it easy to spot. “I have it in burgundy, and it's a breeze to pick out at baggage claim,” he notes. The only drawback he mentioned is the telescoping handle, which he feels is on the short side even when extended and can make maneuvering a bit awkward for taller travelers.

Dimensions: 19.5” x 12.5” x 29” | Weight: 11.5 lbs | Colors: 13 options

Hamdy’s final recommendation for checked bags is this large Delsey option because it “offers a combination of durability, functionality, and style.” The 3-dial TSA-approved combination lock gives you peace of mind that your belongings will stay safe and secure, while the expansion zipper will give you two more inches of packing room. Shoppers say the polycarbonate hardshell is both lightweight and durable and they love how much stuff the suitcase can hold. One reviewer called it “massive” before adding, “I'm a one-bag kind of person and have never had a bag this big before. It swallows up 3-4 weeks of travel needs, including multiple pairs of shoes for all kinds of adventures and big fluffy snow clothes.”

Dimensions: 21.7" x 14.4" x 9" | Weight: 7.5 lbs | Colors: 10 options

Away is a standout brand for all the right reasons, and this super safe wheeled bag is no exception. When we polled our team of experts for their favorite carry-on bag, this option was by far the most popular. 

Editorial Director Jeanine Edwards has traveled with this small suitcase for over five years now and raved about the wheels. “They turn in all directions like a dream and work just as well on carpet as they do on hard floors,” she said. Meanwhile, Deals Writer Carrie McCabe loved that it included a built-in combination lock and is the ideal size for most airline overhead storage, so there are “no worries about last-minute bag checks.” 

Brand Partnership Editor Rory Halperin is a particular fan of its interior compression system. “It's incredible how much you can pack in,” she said. In addition to a variety of cool colors, you can also get it personalized with your initials for an extra fee, so you’ll never get your bag mixed up on the luggage belt. While the brand was best known for having built-in chargers, they unfortunately no longer offer that in this piece.

Dimensions: 21.5" H x 15" W x 8.5" D | Weight: 8.6 lbs | Colors: 9 options

If you’re a business traveler who reaches for your laptop a lot while on the go, Trending Writer Ellie Conley recommends this July carry-on suitcase. The front pocket has a polycarbonate shell that protects your laptop and gives you easy access to the device. She also loves that “the inside has a strap compression system, so I can overpack a little and still shut the suitcase. It also has a water-resistant and stain-proof nylon lining. The outside shell also doesn't scratch easily, which is nice because these days a lot of smaller planes make you check rolling carry-ons.” Bonus: It also comes with a lifetime warranty. She did note that the suitcase is heavier than others she’s tried, likely due to the built-in charger.

Dimensions: 21” x 15” x 9” | Weight: 9.9 lbs | Colors: 5 options

Known for its quality and expandable feature, this Briggs and Riley carry-on topped the "best carry-on" lists of both Content Manager Petya Kiskinova and Jack and Sharon Benoff, owners of boutique travel agency Vacationeeze. Its 21-inch height should meet the size requirements of most international airlines' overhead bins (but you should always double-check when booking). 

It also features impact-resistant corner guards for extra protection, self-repairing zippers and omnidirectional wheels. Shoppers are smitten despite its high price point. “Absolutely the best luggage I’ve ever had! It rolls easily, is high-quality and has great features, especially the expandable option that allows it to fit in the overhead compartment on smaller planes. The 21” carry-on accommodates what used to take a much larger piece of luggage,” raved one.

Dimensions: 22” x 15.8” x 8.7” | Weight: 7.8 lbs | Colors: 1 option

Travel expert Nate Axvig is a fan of this ultra-smooth spinner, as it’s a great size for weekend getaways. The bag features the brand’s patented Aero-trac suspension wheels that absorb shocks for a smooth rolling experience. In addition to two spacious main compartments, this carry-on has several pockets for extra storage and organization. And it’s eco-friendly: The durable polycarbonate shell is made from recycled PET bottles. “I love it — it rolls more smoothly than any other luggage I have ever owned. Just keep in mind that it does not expand, but it holds a good amount. The locking mechanism is really smooth as well,” wrote one reviewer.

Dimensions: 22" × 14" × 9" | Weight: 8.81 lbs | Colors: 6 options

Instead of using zippers, this brilliant carry-on snaps shut using two TSA-approved combination locks, so you never have to worry about your zipper busting because you’ve overstuffed the bag. Trending Writer Moriba Cummings says the zipperless design gives him “peace of mind for security if I have to check it (only when overhead bin storage is full on flights).” He added, “Its polycarbonate and aluminum shell also makes it completely durable, so scratches barely show up and it's not dented at all, despite being tossed around a bit from repeatedly placing it in overhead compartments over and over again.” It’s definitely on the pricier side for a carry-on piece, but Cummings says it’s well worth the price, especially since it looks super luxe.

Dimensions: 22.0" X 14.0" X 9.0" | Weight: 10.9 lbs | Colors: 1 option

Meg Jerrard, a writer at Solo Female Travelers Club, has used her Tumi suitcase on over 400 flights and says the nylon is so abrasion-proof that there still isn’t a single scratch on her bag. “The handle, one of the weakest points of any bag, is made of aluminum and extremely sturdy. The wheels on mine have no damage.” It has a built-in USB port that makes charging your devices a breeze and boasts impact-resistant side panels and bumper rails for extra protection. While the bag only comes in black, you can add colorful accent pieces and a monogram for a fee. Perhaps best of all, Jerrard said, “If anything breaks, you can take the bag to any Tumi store worldwide and they'll fix it, for free, on the spot. I've tried it, and it's true.”

Dimensions: 21.5" x 15" x 8.5" | Weight: 7.4 lbs | Colors: 9 options

If you love travel gear that comes in a lot of different colors, this is for you. Not only does it come in nine hues, Senior Deals Writer Britt Ross says it is super easy to steer and fits a ton of stuff. “I was able to pack enough clothes for a two-week trip to Europe and still had room for souvenirs.” It even comes with an ejectable battery with USB-C port and a hidden stain-proof laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate. Ross noted that “It did get a little scuffed the first time I traveled with it, but Magic Erasers work wonders at removing the spots.” Good to know: If you do run into problems with the bag, the brand offers a lifetime warranty and a 100-day return policy.

Dimensions: 21.7” x 15.8” x 9.1” | Weight: 9.5 lbs | Colors: 4 options

Rimowa is recognized for its innovative use of materials, having created the first aluminum trunk on the market way back in 1937. Recognizable by its distinctive parallel grooves, premium-class Rimowa luggage is stylish and practical, albeit super expensive. Luckily, that high cost does translate into durability and longevity. Sunmer Hull, director of content at The Points Guy, has used her Rimowa bag for over a decade, flying almost half a million miles with it, and she says it “still does the job.” In fact, each suitcase should last you forever, thanks to the brand’s lifetime warranty. Because it’s made from a tough aluminum material, the carry-on is slightly heavier than other options. 

Dimensions: 23" × 15" × 9.5" | Weight: 7.38 lbs | Colors: 13 colors

“This carry-on from Monos is about as sleek (almost futuristic) as they come, complete with a stylish hardshell, water-resistant case and interior pockets (fit up to a 16-inch laptop) for extra organization,” raved Granero. “The built-in front compartment makes it easy to access essentials (such as tech or quick toiletries for freshening up without having to open your entire suitcase). It also features 360-wheels and a zipper locking system for added security and mobility.” Each suitcase comes with an antimicrobial, silver ion-coated laundry bag, two shoe bags and a vegan leather luggage tag. While the Plus version offers more space than the brand’s standard carry-on, its size might not meet the requirements for all airlines' overhead bins, so be sure to do your research when booking.

Dimensions: 20.0" x 14.25" x 9.5" | Weight: 6.97 lbs | Colors: 8 options

This 20-inch carry-on features TSA-approved combination locks for added security, a telescopic handle and multidirectional spinner wheels. Kiskinova loves it because of how stylish it is and how the hardshell frame offers excellent protection. Amazon customers agree, one calling it a “great piece of luggage.” They added: “Excellent value. Very durable and easy to lift and place in overhead compartments. It also holds a lot for the size. Perfect for short trips.”

Dimensions: 21.75 in x 15.75 in x 7.75 in | Weight: 7.7 lbs | Colors: 9 options

Jeannie Mak, managing editor at Travel Fashion Girl, recommends Travelpro bags because of their "Lifetime Limited Worry-Free Warranty" that “covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for the life of the bag after registration.” This specific model features a USB port, a contoured grip handle and 360-degree wheels that make you look like a, um, travel pro as you navigate through busy airports and train stations. Its softshell design also expands two extra inches to allow for more packing room. Plus, it boasts a deluxe tie-down system with compression straps and accessory pockets for organizational purposes.

Dimensions: 15.7” x 22.8” x 9.8” | Weight: 8.36 lbs | Colors: 7 options

“This roller bag has so many smart features that — when used with compression cubes — it can fit a full two weeks' worth of clothes,” raved our Commerce Editor Janelle Randazza. “We're talking sweaters, long pants, bulky sweats — it all fits.” She also loves that the ultra-functional suitcase has tons of smart features. “Incorporated into the design are butter-smooth rolling 360-degree spinner wheels, a TSA lock, a compression panel and my two favorite features: a padded trolly handle and an integrated weight scale.” That’s right, the side handle of the carry-on has a weight indicator to alert you if you’re bag is over 50 pounds (there’s a clear window built-in to the handle that will turn red if you’re over the limit.)

Dimensions: 22" x 12" x 12" | Weight: 2.3 lbs | Colors: 9 options

When fully opened, this innovative weekender looks like a regular hanging garment bag with a roomy interior that stores your suits and dresses wrinkle-free. But what sets this bag apart is the addition of two fold-out compartments that are attached to both sides. When you fold them up and zip them together, it instantly transforms into the shape of a duffel bag. Cool, huh? 

Simone has owned one for over two years and can’t get over how much stuff it holds. “It offers enough room as a duffel (even with the suit in the garment section) to fit a week's worth of clothes.” Made from a durable and weather-resistant polyester material, it also comes with a shoulder strap, top handles and a trolley sleeve on the back that makes it easy to piggy-back onto your spinner. Plus, it folds flat when not in use for easy storage.

Dimensions: 13.75” x 16.5” x 6.75” | Weight: 2.6 lbs | Colors: 10 options

Katy Nastro, a travel expert at Going, told us she reaches for this stylish Lo and Sons carryall for weekend or overnight trips. “I mostly love it for the separate shoe compartment on the bottom that keeps your shoes separate from everything else," she said. "It's for the chic and cleanliness factor.” In addition to the different compartments that keep everything organized, she also loves its retro canvas look and the fact that it comes in ten different styles. The bag has a padded laptop compartment, making it great for business travel, and a slot for your water bottle, so you can stay hydrated on the go without worrying about it falling over and spilling.

Dimensions: 19.25" × 10.25" × 14.75" | Weight: 5.18 lbs | Colors: 7 options

If staying organized on the go is important to you, Mello recommends this Monos Weekender Bag. “It's about the size of a small carry-on, ideal for when a rolling suitcase is not ideal, or as your personal item on planes. It's spacious with interior pockets for organization, a separate laptop sleeve, and a special water-resistant compartment for shoes or wet items. The best feature? A built-in sleeve that fits over a suitcase handle, doubling as an extra pocket.” The sleek travel bag comes in nylon and vegan leather options; both versions are super durable and sustainably made.

Dimensions: 17” x 8” x 10” | Weight: 2.76 lbs | Colors: 3 options

Mak says this smart little number “Ticks off many boxes for an avid traveler and entrepreneur. It has many organizational pockets for the business traveler, can fit a weekend's worth of clothes and has a laptop and trolley sleeve. It's terrific for work trips, a weekend jaunt or short road trips!” Made from a weather-resistant lightweight ballistic nylon, the compact bag opens down the middle like a suitcase, making it easy to find your stuff quickly. Plus it has a front compartment with several different pockets to store everything you need easy access to, like your phone, passport, charger, etc.

Dimensions: 16½" x 11" x 9" | Weight: 3.6 lbs | Colors: 8 options

If you’re in need of a great carry-on personal item, Nastro suggests checking out this Dagne Dover option. “It definitely fits more than a few things and fits under most seats,” she said. “Cleans fairly easily, and comes with a ton of pockets for organizing. There's a small pocket on the outside to keep your phone handy, and an interior pocket with a clip for keeping money and other valuables safe.” It includes a trolley sleeve, and its expandable sides can be unbuttoned to give you extra packing room.

Dimensions: 19in x 9.8in x 15.7 | Weight: 3.86 lbs | Colors: 5 options

I’ve owned this Beis Weekender for over two years now and am shocked anew by how much it holds every time I use it. It has a separate bottom zippered compartment for heavy items like shoes or books and a super spacious main compartment that I’ve been able to stuff 4-5 days' worth of clothes into. I love that it has side pockets for stuff I need to grab often because, in truth, it can be hard to find stuff once inside the capacious main compartment. I haven’t brought it on a plane, so I’m not sure it if it would comfortably fit overheard or under my seat, but it is my go-to bag for weekend getaways via train or car.

Dimensions: 12" x 16" x 7" | Weight: 2.1 lbs | Colors: 6 options

E-commerce Editor Julia Webb raved about this cute adorable Calpak piece. “This duffel has been my go-to bag to bring on any length trip for years because of how thoughtfully designed it is. Not only does it have a convenient trolley slip, it has various pockets to hold everything from my laptop to my lip gloss. It also has an exterior shoe compartment so germ-conscious packers (me!) don't have to worry about dirty kicks touching any clean clothes or accessories.” The duffel comes in a bunch of different colors, so it shouldn’t be hard to find one that suits your style, and it weighs just over two pounds, so it won’t weigh you down as you dash through crowded travel hubs.

Dimensions: 24” x 13” x 4” | Weight: 3.09 lbs | Colors: 4 options

Lindsay Stevens, travel content creator at Lindzoutside, called this Osprey backpack her favorite bag she’s ever owned. With a 55-liter capacity, it's likely all you'll need for a long weekend, and it opens like a suitcase so you can see exactly what’s inside without digging through everything from the top. The back is padded to make it comfortable to wear for long periods of time and it has a hip belt and harness that help distribute the weight evenly across your back. Stevens’ favorite part? “This bag has a detachable day pack that I use as a makeshift camera/laptop bag!”

Dimensions: 19” x 11” x 8” | Weight: .875 lbs | Colors: 2 options

Lesley loves to use this compact backpack as her personal bag when traveling and it’s easy to see why. It’s super lightweight — weighing less than one pound — so it won’t weigh you down as you walk around with it. Along with a padded back and sternum strap, the adventure pack also has trekking pole attachments, making it a great option to use when hiking or camping. Another cool feature? The back panel pad can be removed for use as a sit pad for when you need to take a break. One shopper raved, “This is a great little day bag that holds a shocking amount of items — two 32-ounce Hydroflasks in each exterior pocket; two mid layers; room for a water bladder; and so much more. Pleasantly surprised by how comfortable this bag was without anything of structure inside, and the top pouch is extremely useful.”

Dimensions: 18.5” x 12.6” x 9.25” | Weight: 7.8 lbs | Colors: 1 option

Lesley’s other favorite backpack is this sleek option — ideal for shutterbugs, thanks to its interior partitions that keep all the camera parts safe from damage. “It stores my laptop, professional camera and most valuable essentials,” she said. Also part of the package? Anti-theft zippers, a secret AirTag pocket for added security ... and a matching shoulder bag to hold even more stuff! 

“The bag is very big (25 liters) and quite stylish. Pgytech crammed so many features into the OneMo 2, going through the bag was like a treasure hunt,” wrote one five-star reviewer. “The configurations seem endless and you can tell they spent a lot of time being thoughtful about the design. The side pockets make camera access a breeze, the padded straps are quite comfortable (I walked around NYC for seven hours with no fatigue), and I was able to carry the camera, multiple lenses, batteries, camera straps, a light, memory cards and a tripod without issue.”

Dimensions: 7.5” x 20” x 12” | Weight: 3.3 lbs | Colors: 4 options

This uber-functional backpack has a removable (and compressible) wardrobe compartment that increases space optimization by up to 20% and helps keep your clothes organized, so it’s no wonder that Jerrard loves it.

 “This is a carry-on backpack that has a 3-in-1 adaptable design to take it from a compact 22- or 30-liter backpack that is approved for carry-on baggage all the way up to a spacious 40-liter pack. There are additional bags for tech and toiletries which can be snapped on and off the front via a magnetic Fidlock, and this frees up space in the actual bag,” she told us. Customers can’t get over how well-made it is. “The perfect backpack for traveling; not only it's a perfect size and super versatile, but it's made with very high-quality materials. I just love it,” wrote one.

Dimensions: 22” x 12” x 10” | Weight: 3.2 lbs | Colors: 5 primary options

This carry-on has not met an overhead bin it can't fit in, even when I am the last to board a plane,” said our Senior Operations Analyst Amanda Rickert about this colorful backpack. “I found it incredibly comfortable to carry on trains and long walks with the chest strap, and while it has a hip strap I usually choose to leave it off just to stay more streamlined. It also has handles on all four sides, so it is easy to grab from wherever.” What’s more, the travel bag has a lot of thoughtful safety features like zipper locks and a built-in laptop sleeve that’s against the back section to make it hard for pickpockets access. It even comes with a rain cover to keep the bag protected from the elements, though Rickert noted it can be difficult to put the cover on, and it does take up space in the bag itself.

Dimensions: 21” x 12” x 6” | Weight: 1.13 lbs | Colors: 5 primary options

Randazza is also a Cotopaxi fan, in particular she prefers this Torre backpack. “I love the high capacity of this bag that includes a padded laptop sleeve, an ergonomic carry design and a highly weatherproof exterior. This is the perfect bag to take with you in inclement weather — it can withstand anything, she told us. The backpack can hold up to 35 liters of stuff and comes in tons of different color combinations. Along with a padded laptop sleeve, it also features anti-theft zippers and carabiner lash loops that let you clip on extra gear.