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We traveled by plane, train, and automobile, with 15 checked luggage pieces, to find the best
Credit: Jason Wanlass
By Jason Wanlass ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated July 14, 2026
Finding the right piece of checked luggage for your needs can be quite the task. There are so many sizes, features, and construction details that it can make your head hurt, but finding the perfect combo can make your travels a breeze, and if you do it right, you only have to do it once.
For many years in a row now, the best piece of checked baggage is the Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In. It's durable, has great organizational features for extended travel, and boasts exceptionally smooth, self-aligning wheels. For a hardshell case, we love the Away The Large, which looks great and is built to last — for less than you might expect.
For those with a more modest budget, the Samsonite Freeform Large Spinner is a no-frills hardsided suitcase with a generous capacity.
If you prefer to skip baggage claim, our team has also tested a slew of great carry-on luggage pieces that might better suit your travel needs.
We happen to have a team that travels a lot, and we've been putting that experience to use since 2018, buying more than 50 large-sized pieces of luggage, packing them for business trips, beach vacations, and far-reaching adventures.
Editor's Note: Our luggage review was updated on July 14, 2026, after purchasing and testing three new models from Monos, July, and Traveler's Choice.
Quick Picks
Here's a quick list of our favorite Luggage recommendations.
Limited lifetime on defects or workmanship. 100-day trial with a full refund. Shipping covered if product was registered.
It's big, beautiful, and built to last, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In continues to be our team's favorite overall suitcase over the past several years. This bag is huge — we calculated the main compartment at 128L. This is enough space for one person to pack for over a month away from home, or for two people to share for a 2-3 week vacation. The Platinum Elite 29" has great packing and organization options for any type of traveler, including a removable fold-away garment compartment that packs up dresses, blouses, slacks, suits, or a combination of them all. “It's practically a closet on wheels. When I need maximum real estate — like if I'm traveling internationally for several weeks — this bag rules,” said one of our lead testers. It's big, but even when packed to the gills, the Platinum Elite glides like a speed skater. Its wheels self-align using magnets, and stay pointing forward as you roll along. It has smooth zippers, stylish accents, and a very rugged nylon shell.
Its extra-large size, which is a major pro for some, is also one of the main drawbacks of this suitcase. It's just big. Too big for shorter stays, and the large capacity is too tempting to overfill, pushing airline weight restrictions. The Briggs & Riley Baseline is another high-quality bag with similar organizational features that is a bit smaller, but is far more expensive. If both of these options feel out of budget, the SwissGear Sion Large Spinner is a more affordable softside case, but keep in mind that it doesn't compare to the Travelpro's quality. No other checked-size luggage we tested matches the price-to-performance ratio of this seriously impressive bag.
Alternate Sizes: The medium-sized Travelpro Platinum Elite 25" is a bit smaller than the 29", and less prone to overpacking. The Platinum Elite carry-on is a great case for 3-5 day trips. Both offer the same feature set as the 29" case. There is also a hardshell version, though it doesn't offer the same elaborate packing system.
The Platinum Elite is our favorite checked bag for many reasons: it has a huge capacity, durability, great internal features, and a super smooth roll. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Lifetime repair for a registration fee. Five-year free repairs for functional damage to your suitcase due to manufacturing defects or airline mishandling.
The Away The Large is an excellent hardsided bag that performs impressively well for the price. We were able to pack what we needed, then let the bag take a backseat in our travels, which is a feature we love in a suitcase. “The Away sits on four solid double-wheeled spinners that glide easily over smooth surfaces,” said one of our testers. “I also love its dense polycarbonate shell. It's well-suited to the rigors of baggage tossing.” The Away offers a sturdy trolley handle, tough zippers, and a great packing system. It looks smart enough for professional travel but is burly enough for chaotic global adventures. It measures 62 total linear inches — perfectly matching the majority of airline checked bag dimension restrictions, and the internal compression system is great. A full-sized panel cinches down tightly over clothing, saving space and keeping everything secure in transit. This is the same system used on higher-end models we've tested, like the Rimowa.
Empty, it weighs slightly above average at 11.6 pounds and has a lower-than-average capacity of 99.2 L. While not as roomy as other options, it is still enough for a 2-3 week trip, and keeps your packing in check so you don't go over the standard 50 lb weight limit for checked bags. However, if you have bulkier, but lighter items, like sweaters and winter jackets, you might wish you had a little more room. Like most other hardsided luggage, the Away does not have any external storage pockets, which we missed at times. It can be nice to keep some things easily accessible while living out of the bag at your hotel or vacation rental. The Away isn't crazy expensive, but if you don't travel that often, you can likely go for something more affordable; we recommend checking out the Samsonite Freeform, although it isn't quite as rugged. The July Checked Expandable is a direct competitor and priced similarly, but we liked the Away bag we tested better.
Alternate Sizes: If you need more room, the expandable version of this bag is the The Large Flex, which will give you an extra ~15L of space. It also comes in a 69-liter medium size and a carry-on size, with both expandable and non-expandable options. All sizes are available in an astonishing array of colors.
Limited warranty on manufacturing defects or faulty workmanship.
Sometimes you just need something to get you from point A to point B. We think the Samsonite Freeform Large Spinner does exactly this, and does it without draining your budget before you even book a flight. That's not to say it's a cheap bag, we think the Samsonite balances cost and quality very well. It also performs in the areas needed to make it a reliable travel companion for air, car, train, and bus travel. Its polypropylene shell is a little softer than polycarbonate, so it takes on deeper scratches and tends to be a little more pliable than some higher-end bags. However, it still held up against all the carnage we put it through. It has a generous 112 L of storage (enough for 3-4 weeks of travel) and it's expandable. It's also one of the lighter-weight checked bags we've traveled with, which makes it easier to stay under airline weight restrictions. However, at 66 linear inches, it technically larger than the 62 linear inch restriction that most airlines have.
This bag is pretty short on features, leaving you to fend for yourself in terms of organization. Additionally, the wheels on the Freeform roll and track well enough, but they just don't seem as tough as other spinners we've tested. The same goes for the trolley handle; it held up during our testing, but it's a bit wobbly. However, we can't fault this bag for not working, and it will serve you well for light to moderate travel. If you are willing to pay a little more, we really like the Away The Large. The Gregory Quadro Pro Hardcase 28" is another solid bag. Both of these cases offer a bit more durability and are more likely to last you through the years.
Alternate Sizes: Samsonite offers a medium-sized checked bag for those who prefer not to push the limits of airline restrictions. We also tested the carry-on version of the Freeform and found it to be just as great a value.
Ten-year limited warranty on manufacturing defects or faulty workmanship.
The SwissGear Sion embodies the spirit of your favorite soft-sided checked suitcases with its classic softshell design and “back to basics” approach. The Sion has a basic compression system with just two narrow straps and minimal internal pockets. “Despite its relative simplicity, I really like some of its features, like its two external pockets and the detachable toiletries bag,” said our lead testers. “You get what you pay for with the Sion — a good deal that does well enough for less frequent travel.” We don't recommend it for frequent, extensive travel, but it offers a solid balance of cost, quality, and functionality that makes it a great choice for intermittent use.
The features and amenities are definitely bare-bones, and its wheels aren't as tall as the top-performing spinners and have a tendency to rattle when rushing through the airport. Its fabric shell is thinner and noticeably less sinewy, but this bag is durable enough to get tossed around a bit by baggage claim. “This bag is made from polyester instead of ballistic nylon, but it still holds up better than I expected for basic travel,” said one tester. If you plan to travel more than once or twice per year, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In is softsided case that we consider well worth the investment. If you prefer a hardsided bag, consider the Samsonite Freeform Large Spinner, which is also reasonably priced.
While the soft polyester exterior of the Sion Softside is a bit thin, it proved to be durable and had no problems surviving a big fall. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Innovative compression system and smart storage features
Very rugged ballistic nylon exterior
CONS
Expensive
Heavy
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight
13.7 lbs
Exterior Dimensions
29.0" x 20.25" x 12.5"
Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
92.5 L
Expandable
Yes
Warranty
All functional aspects of the bag are covered for life. Repairs from airline-caused damage also possible.
The Briggs & Riley Baseline is a luxe soft-sided suitcase. High quality without looking flashy, it rolls smoothly alongside you and pivots on a dime across smooth surfaces. Three loading handles give it an edge when lugging it off the baggage claim carousel, but what really sets this bag apart is its spot-on organizational features. A tri-fold garment envelope accommodates delicate fabric and minimizes wrinkles. An ingenious expansion system in the main compartment allows you to stuff the bag and then compress it without having to fight with expansion zippers. We measured the unexpanded volume of the case to be 97 L, which is enough room for 2-3 weeks' worth of clothing. But the expansion/compression system allows you to pack far more than meets the eye without making the bag any bigger, and can be a lifesaver for habitual overpackers or anyone traveling in multi-week stints. Just be mindful of your bag's weight if you plan to check it.
The Baseline Large is smaller than some of the other luggage we tested, and it fits easily within dimensional checked bag restrictions; however, its base weight is above average, and this is where you might run into trouble. It is all too easy to exceed weight limits if you're not mindful of how you pack. Soft-sided bags also don't offer the same level of water and impact protection as hard-sided suitcases. If you are hauling precious cargo, the Tumi 19 Degree and Rimowa Check-In are excellent top-tier options in the hard-sided category. We can't find much to complain about, but the cost of the Briggs & Riley is likely to be the main deterrent for many people. And we'll say, yes, it's pricey, but it continues to be one of our favorites — we've tested multiple iterations, used them extensively, and it just never lets us down.
Alternate Sizes: For a slightly smaller and lighter bag, the Baseline Medium is a good choice that will fit about 10-14 days worth of clothing, and has the same compression system as the large size. We also tested and solidly recommend the carry-on size of this bag. You can get the Baseline as a hardshell suitcase, which has the same expansion system but doesn't include the tri-fold garment storage.
Limited lifetime on defects or workmanship. More extensive coverage available for a fee.
We admit the Monos Hybrid Trunk Large initially caught our eye with its good looks. That said, it really won us over after we took a few trips with it. This checked bag absolutely levels up on quality and function. When it comes to packing, this trunk offers a ton of wide-open space for you to place things anywhere you'd like. But, like we said, we absolutely adore this bag's fashion sense. Its thinner rectangular shape stands out the most, followed closely by its two large latches, metal hinges, riveted end caps, and great color options. We tested the silver trunk and loved how it looked like an all-metal case. A dense polycarbonate shell gives the Monos a strong, rigid feel, and the combination of a strong trolley and rubber-tread spinners makes it easy to roll this trunk through parking garages, airports, and sidewalks with ease (even when packed to the brim). “I was skeptical about how well the Monos would score during our ease of transport tests,” said one of our key testers. “Wow, was I wrong. This bag moves quite well.” It rolls straight and can handle being dropped or bumped.
The Hybrid Trunk Large offers a reasonable amount of packing volume; we calculated 83.5 liters. However, this is still below average for the group, and it doesn't expand. There's absolutely no “stretch” in this bag, and we didn't really like its compression straps or panel. Both are attached at the highest point of the main compartment, so the Monos needs to be fully filled in order for them to hold things in place (if you read our full review, you'll see what we're talking about). We think the construction quality of this bag partially justifies its higher price tag, but aside from that, you're paying for style — some buyers will say it's worth it, others won't. After considering the pros and cons, if you decide to lower costs and go with a more traditional case, the Away The Large is tops.
Alternate Sizes: Monos also offers more traditional checked luggage. Their Large has a 97 L capacity for up to 3-week trips, and their Check-In Medium is a bit smaller than the trunk at 70 L and is perfect for 1-2-week trips. We tested their carry-on size and loved using the external laptop pocket, which is unique for a hardsided case, and came in super handy when traveling with tech.
The Monos has the brawn to back up its good looks. It performed well in all of our metrics, and it held its own in the travel world. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Limited warranty on manufacturing defects or faulty workmanship.
Sometimes all you need is a price-friendly bag that will get the job done. The Traveler's Choice Pagosa Large fits this bill in more ways than one. It's large, has a good packing system, and is sturdy enough to safely carry your stuff to wherever you're headed. So, if you just booked that last minute cruise, you have a student headed for college, or you've already blown all of your cash on airfare and hotels — the Pagosa will give you enough quality and performance to load up and go. Keep in mind, this hardshell is by no means indestructible, so don't expect it to circle the globe with you five times per year. It's not made for that. “My favorite feature of this bag was its packing straps and panels. Most suitcases at this price point don't offer much in the way of packing systems,” said one of our travel experts.
This bag certainly has its limitations; we don't recommend it for frequent travel, and it's better suited to 1-2 trips per year. The Pagosa Large has a polypropylene shell, which is softer, less rugged, and more pliable than the standard industry material (polycarbonate). It's also more prone to scratches and gouges. Most of our testers felt the grab handles were too tight, making them more difficult to grasp and more uncomfortable to hold. The Pagosa is expandable, so it could easily be overpacked, which could cost you extra fees at check-in. We also aren't as confident in this bag's ability to maintain its integrity and protective abilities if loaded to the brim. But, for basic last-minute travel needs, this case will mostly give you what you need. The Samsonite Freeform Large Spinner also uses a polypropylene shell, but we feel it offers better overall construction and doesn't cost too much more.
Alternate Sizes: The Pagosa Medium is a smaller, even more affordable version of this case that is perfect for shorter 7-10 day trips.
We placed our Pagosa through the wringer and found it to be a fairly decent bag for the price. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Product Comparison Table
We used and abused these suitcases for months to find out which ones can survive the baggage system of your standard airport. Credit: Jason Wanlass
How We Tested
We purchased all of these bags and took them everywhere we went over the course of several months. We traveled across the US, explored Europe, Korea, Nepal, and even Tibet, bringing different bags along on each trip. We've spent more hours in airports and airplanes than we care to count. We rolled them along sidewalks, through the airport, over cobblestone pathways, and deep out onto rocky backcountry roads. We traveled with them in the back of trucks, SUVs, and tucked into vans. Closer to home, we hopped them over curbs, pushed them down stairwells, and onto concrete to push their durability limits. We even hosed them down with water to see which could repel light rain. In total, our bags saw thousands of miles of travel and hundreds of combined hours of testing. Read more in our complete how we test article.
Our comprehensive testing was divided into four testing metrics:
Ease of Transport (30% of overall scoring)
Design and Functionality (30% of score)
Construction Quality (25% of score)
Capacity (15% of score)
We rolled each bag down a concrete staircase to see how tough they were. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We tested all of our luggage side by side, directly comparing them to each other. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We doused each bag with hose water to test their water-resistance. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We hand measured the interiors of each bag to calculate its packing volume and compare it to what the manufacturer's specs. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We lugged all of our bags up and down stairs in other to determine how well their handles worked. Credit: Jason Wanlass
And, we packed our bags and traveled as often as we could. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Why Trust GearLab
Our luggage testing is led by GearLab Review Editor Jason Wanlass. Jason has been a full-time GearLab tester and reviewer for several years. He loves all things travel and is on the go whenever he can find the time. He hits the international travel scene multiple times a year and also loves to explore the good old USA. He's no stranger to long-haul flights, road trips, trains, trams, or buses. He's been in more airports than he can name and has flown hundreds of thousands of miles in his life. His packing style is simple, so he likes bags that allow him to place things wherever he likes; however, he realizes that not all travelers are alike, so he constantly has his eyes peeled for suitcases that his more-detail-oriented friends would appreciate.
Joining him is Myrha Colt. It is not uncommon for Myrha to be on the road for nearly half (or more) of any given year, with days spent traveling between mountain hideaways, remote beach villages, and city skyscrapers, stopping by all the trails, museums, waterfalls, and taco stands she can squeeze in between. Each member of our team tests gear for a living and knows a thing or two about packing their bags and what makes a good one.
We packed each bag with a variety of cargo to see well it kept everything in its place. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Analysis and Test Results
We compared our tested suitcases across four key metrics and evaluated them side by side in the field and at home. We packed the same set of clothes and gear in each to compare their storage and organizational capacity. We rolled them around, trip after trip, to see how easy they were to transport, carry, and load. Read on to learn more about how each performed. If you're new to the whole luggage thing, check out our advice on how to choose the best luggage to help inform your final purchase decision.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
We like to highlight bags that offer a respectable level of quality, features, and performance for a reasonable price. Some of the cases we feel meet this criteria are the Away The Large and the Samsonite Freeform Large. These two hard-sided cases, both caught our attention due first due to their approchable price tags, won us over with their durability after we took them on a few trips. Either of these will do a great job for most travelers, and in our experience, they have all held up well after multiple years of use. The SwissGear Sion Large Spinner is a very affordable piece of luggage that will do the trick if you only travel occasionally. Another cost-effective bag is the Traveler's Choice Pagosa Large. Like the SwissGear, we don't recommend it for extensive travel, but it definitely offers a fair amount of value if you're in a pinch.
For a less-expensive bag, the Traveler's Choice actually has a nice look. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Taking the traditional route to the second floor. Our Samsonite Freeform Large is well-balanced and fairly easy to lug up a flight of stairs, even when fully loaded. It's also a great value. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Ease of Transport
Any wheeled luggage should be able to navigate the polished floors of an airport. But, as we all know, one off-kilter wheel, or a front-heavy bag, can lead to a constant struggle as you walk through the airport trying to find your gate. Additionally, your luggage may also come across cracked sidewalks, steep curbs, cobblestone streets, and gravel-laden pavement, and this is where differences really become apparent. We looked at each case's tracking ability, wheel smoothness, handle extension, and ability to maintain balance when standing upright, fully loaded. The goal is to find a bag that handles so smoothly that you can forget it's by your side.
Transport Features Ratings
Product
Tracking Ability
Wheel Smoothness
Telescopic Handle Smoothness
Balance
Travelpro Platinum Elite 29\"
5
5
5
5
Briggs & Riley Baseline Large
4.5
5
5
5
Rimowa Essential Check-In L
4.5
5
4.5
5
July Checked Expandable
3.5
3.5
4.5
4
Gregory Quadro Pro Hardcase 28â€
4
3.5
3.5
4
Monos Hybrid Trunk Large
4
3.5
3.5
4
Away The Large
3.5
3.5
3
4
Samsonite Freeform Large
4
3
3
3.5
Traveler\'s Choice Pagosa Large
3.5
3.5
3
3.5
Delsey Paris Titanium 29\"
3
3
2.5
3
SwissGear Sion Expandable 29\"
2.5
2.5
3
3.5
Amazon Basics 30\"
3
2.5
2.5
3
Travelpro Maxlite 5 25\"
2.5
3
3
2.5
Samsonite Omni PC Expandable
2
2
3
3.5
Travelers Club Chicago 28\"
2
2
2.5
3
Top rollers include the Travelpro Platinum Elite, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Large, and the Rimowa Essential Check-In. Their superior wheels roll smoothly whether you're cruising through baggage claim, strolling down a city sidewalk, or heading for hotel check-in. Unsurprisingly, all of these bags are on the expensive side (some are on the very expensive side), but there is no denying their effortlessly smooth glide. The Travelpro has magnetic, self-aligning wheels that help it stay true to course, and we love the Briggs & Riley because it remains compact and well-balanced no matter how much you pack.
Magnetically aligning wheels keep the Travelpro rolling straight as an arrow. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Monos Hybrid Trunk Large is a surprising top performer here. We didn't know what to expect from this uniquely shaped case, but it turned out to be very well balanced, and rolled by our side without needing much correction.
A closer look at this bag's good looks. We liked rolling it through airports. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Hybrid Trunk's long slender body allows it to be easily tipped onto two wheels for a smoother passage over rougher terrain. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Luckily, models like the Away The Large and the Samsonite Freeform prove that you don't have to spend a fortune on your luggage to get a smooth ride. Both offer double-wheeled spinners that cruise very well, and trolley handles that extend and retract without getting stuck.
We absolutely love the Samsonite's upgraded, double-wheeled spinners. The Freeform runs fast and vibration-free, though it strays a bit if you don't keep an eye on it. Credit: Jason Wanlass
When strictly looking at grab handles, we really liked the multiple high-end handles on the Briggs & Riley Baseline and Travelpro Platinum Elite. They are sturdily attached to the case, and we could easily fit all four fingers underneath, even when the bag was on a moving carousel. And, for a bargain bag, the SwissGear Sion sports some surprisingly comfy handholds. We also loved the well-placed handles on the Away The Large, TravelPro Maxlite 5 25". Below you can see the different styles and locations of grab handles found on various bags.
The leather handles on the Travelpro Platinum Elite are slightly raised from the side of the case, making it much easier to grab a moving target. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Though nothing fancy, the grab handles on the SwissGear are there when you need them, and easy enough to slip a few fingers through while chasing your case down at baggage claim. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The grab handles on the Away suitcase are a bit tight to fit our fingers under, but we appreciate that the trolley handle extends high enough for our tallest tester. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We like the Travelpro Maxlite handles the best because they are super soft and comfortable to hold, though they don't feel as sturdy as the ones on the Travelpro Elite. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Briggs & Riley Baseline has one of the sturdiest telescoping handles we've used. So much so that we didn't mind using it to haul the case up some stair rather than swap to the smaller grab handles. Credit: Jason Wanlass
In the end, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In reigns king here, but the Away and Monos bags cut some close competition. Lower-end bags inevitably suffered due to lower-cost components and lower-quality construction. Though not horrible, bags like the Travelers Club Chicago 28" took a bit more effort to keep by our side while walking, and we sometimes ran into issues with the telescoping handle getting mildly jammed.
We loved how the Gregory Quadro Pro rolled, slid, lifted, and carried. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Internal Design and Functionality
Here, we considered the variety of places where the bags would both perform well and look at home, and tested the usability of every internal feature, gauging how much convenience it added to our travels. Since luggage can be a bigger investment, we recommend cases that have a more timeless look that won't look goofy or dated next year, and look for innovative features that make packing a little bit easier.
When you approach the airport baggage claim, you usually spy a sea of black roller bags, all with similar designs, duplicated across many brands. If you want it to be easier to find your bag, our first piece of advice is don't choose black. But there are some that we think look better and will certainly be easier to pick out at the airport.
Choosing a color other than classic black will help you find your bag at the carousel more easily. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Our highest scorers are all quite different from one another, but they share one thing in common: they offer unique features that make traveling and living with your suitcase that much easier. The Briggs & Riley Baseline Large Expandable Spinner and the Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In both offer special suitpackers, made to keep your dress clothes wrinkle-free. The Rimowa Essential Check-In L features a basic yet effective internal organization system that keeps belongings secure while allowing you more freedom in what and how you pack. Plus, it's just a good-looking bag.
In addition to a massive amount of storage space, the Travelpro has an ingenious way to carry dress clothes and keep them relatively wrinkle-free. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Testing out this bag's compression system. We packed out Rimowa with several different payloads, and feel these compression panels are some of the best. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Monos Hybrid Trunk Large was an instant fan favorite among our testing crew. Its trunk-style design is distinct, flashy, and fun. It's a pleasing new take on checked luggage that's very functional and easy to use. Unfortunately, the compression system doesn't work as well as the others we tested, holding clothes in place only when the bag is completely full.
We never got tired of looking at our Monos Hybrid Trunk Large. Credit: Jason Wanlass
When under packed, the case cannot hold everything in place. This was a disappointment. We feel it needs a compression system that will cinch down onto the payload regardless of its size. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Away The Large and the Samsonite Freeform also stand out as stylish, modern options that appeal to everyone who tested them. Specifically, the Away The Large's matte finish and choice of contemporary color palettes allow you to express yourself. It has a similar internal organization system to the Rimowa, which we love.
Both halves of the clamshell Away Large spinner suitcase, with one side offering a zip mesh enclosure panel and the other an innovative removable compression panel with inlaid mesh pocket. Credit: Myrha Colt
We think the Samsonite Freeform is one of the more stylish bags Samsonite has produced in the last few years. Credit: Jason Wanlass
It didn't take us long to fall in love with the style and function of the Gregory Quadro Pro Hardcase 28". It has distinct lines, an outdoorsy vibe, and is very versatile thanks to its internal packing features. One stand-out feature we love about the Gregory is its waterproof interior compartment that doubles as a compression panel. It's the ideal place for wet clothing or dirty shoes.
Our favorite function of the Gregory is the ActiveShield bag that lets you separately store wet clothes and muddy shoes. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Construction Quality
You need reliable luggage. You're going to pull it up and down flights of stairs, and toss it in and out of vehicles, and once you drop it off at the airport check-in counter, you have no control over how well it's handled. Construction quality is what determines whether you'll be replacing your suitcase every other year, or if you can use it for decades. Zippers, handles, and wheels are typically the most vulnerable points where suitcases may break down, and we paid special attention to these components, as well as the materials used in the body of the case.
A Note On Material
There are a few standard materials used in the bodies of most modern suitcases, and they offer varying levels of long-term durability. Softsided cases are often made with balistic nylon (strongest), standard nylon (average) or polyester (weakest). With a few exceptions, hardsided suitcases are made from polycarbonate (strongest) or polypropylene (average), or ABS (weakest). Of course, better materials often correlate to a higher price, so consider if you travel often enough to justify the extra spend.
Again, the best performers were the Briggs & Riley Baseline Large Expandable Spinner, Rimowa Essential Check-In L, and Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In. All three cases are made with precision and a close attention to detail. Just looking at them, you can tell they mean business. The Briggs & Riley is made with ballistic nylon, making it extremely resistant to tears and abrasion. The Monos Hybrid Trunk follows close behind these luxury cases, with a rigid polycarbonate body and a zipperless construction that reduces weak points.
The handles on the Rimowa Essential are thick and securely attached. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Rimowa has reinforced corners and sturdy wheels that have easily held up to every trip we've taken with this case. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Running in style with the Rimowa. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The most practical of this bunch is the Travelpro. The others are luxury bags, and while they are made well, they also come with borderline exorbitant price tags. The Travelpro also boasts solid construction quality and is built to last, but at a much lower price point. In addition to its durability, we were particularly impressed with the Travelpro's water-resistance.
This timelapse of our water testing shows how we showered our bags side by side. Among the best softshell performers was the Travelpro Platinum Elite. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Away The Large scored just a little lower than our best performers, but trust us, it's no slouch. This bag is solid. We've traveled extensively with it, both domestically and internationally, and have been consistently impressed by its dense shell and stellar wheels. We've used ours for multiple trips a year for 5 years and counting.
This video speaks for itself (it's even more fun at full volume). The Away can handle contact. In fact, its very resilient polycarbonate shell almost seems to enjoy it - we certainly did. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The July Checked Expandable, and Gregory Quadro Pro Hardcase 28" are well-built bags that we expect to last for years. Each has a thick polycarbonate shell and great all-round construction.
The Gregory is decently water-resistant, and its shell is tough (although it tends to show its battle scars.
When we consider the more affordable spinners on our list, we were quite pleased with the overall durability of the Samsonite Freeform Large Spinner and the SwissGear Sion Large Spinner. To be fair, these bags aren't really designed for the jetsetter who is off to a new destination every month. They are made of polypropylene and polyester, respectively, and they show wear more quickly than some higher-end options. But if you only travel once or twice a year, they will do the job and last you quite a while.
Pulling our SwissGear Sion on two wheels as we rush to check-in. Although a basic budget spinner, this bag still offers a solid amount of durability. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Capacity
The capacity of a bag should fit your travel style, and bigger isn't always better. However, you won't regret having the extra space when you want to squeeze in last-minute souvenir shopping before heading home. We compared each model's volume, as well as it's weight. We also put them to practical tests, packing and unpacking each bag to see how much we could realistically fit. Lighter bags also did better here, because keeping the weight of the bag low allows you to put more inside without going over airline limits.
One of our favorites for this metric is the Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In. We calculated its main compartment volume to be 128.8 liters, which is well above average for the group. It is also a bit heavier than average, but for it's size it's not too bad. It also has an extensive storage and organizational system, providing an effective way to utilize all that space. The Samsonite Freeform Large is also a standout in this metric, boasting a measured volume of 112.5 liters of packing room, standing tall as one of our most spacious hardshells, and one of the lightest as well, so you can really get the most use out of the cavernous interior.
Airline Weight Restrictions
Just because you can fit your entire wardrobe into some of these suitcases doesn't mean you should. Most airlines start charging fees once a bag weighs more than 50 pounds. We found it's very easy to overpack these bags far beyond that weight limit, so perhaps keep a scale handy while you pack.
The Away The Large has a middling capacity, but its internal organization and compression system work very well. We never had to leave anything behind for lack of space. And for habitual overpackers, a more moderate capacity can help you stay under the 50-lb weight limit.
Although it doesn't offer the same storage volume as our top performers, we were still impressed with the TravelPro Maxlite 5 25", particularly its weight-to-volume ratio. At just 6.7 pounds, it still provides 74 liters of packing space (enough for 10-14 days of travel). With these specs, you're almost guaranteed to stay below the airline's weight restriction.
The feather-weight TravelPro Maxlite in action. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Lastly, the Traveler's Choice Pagosa Large offers 100-liters of interior volume. It also has an above-average packing system for a bag in its price range. The interior has tons of zippered pockets and a decent compression system.
The interior of the Traveler's Choice Pagosa Large. Credit: Jason Wanlass
How to Pick the Best Luggage for You
The luggage you buy will (hopefully) be with you for quite a while. It's important to evaluate how you travel in order to choose the one that will make your life away from home that much easier. Here are four key considerations to help narrow down your next luggage selection based on size, organization, material type, and features.
Some bag's have a wide-open packing system, while others can be very compartmentalized. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Hardshell cases usually have a polycarbonate exterior. Generally they are more protective, but are also more rigid, so they don't accommodate oddly shaped cargo as well as softshell cases. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Softshell cases are usually made from polyester or nylon. They hide scuffs and scratches much better than hardshell luggage. Softshells are also more flexible, which makes packing much easier; however, they aren't as protective. Credit: Jason Wanlass
This bag's waterproof compartment makes packing wet clothes or muddy shoes a breeze. Special features like this make each piece of luggage unique and give it added value. Credit: Jason Wanlass
How Many Belongings Do You Travel With?
The first step in finding a suitable piece of checked luggage is to consider the typical length of your trips and how many clothes you wear in a day; this will dictate the size of bag you should get. In this review, we included bags in the 70L-130L range, or what you would consider a checked bag if you are flying. Bags of this size can be good for trips over one week, all the way up to a month if you're a savvy packer. How do you know how much you can fit in your bag? Everyone has a different packing style, so calculating what size luggage you need can be tricky, but here are our general recommendations:
70L: A 70-liter bag is on the smaller side and is ideal for about a week of travel; longer for light packers.
100L: Most checked bags land somewhere in the 100-liter range and are best for 2-3 weeks of travel, depending on your packing style and the climate you are traveling to (bikinis pack down a lot smaller than snow boots).
130L: A 130-liter option is quite large, and can generally support up to a month of travel.
There are endless options when it comes to size and packing ability. The key is to find the bag that will accommodate the greatest number of packing variations possible -- one that you can pack lighter or heavier when needed. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Keep in mind that bigger isn't always better. Buying the biggest bag you can find will ensure you never run out of space, but bringing an oversized bag can be a hassle on an otherwise great vacation or trip, especially if you're changing hotels often or taking public transportation after your flight. It's also important to consider weight restrictions, as the larger your bag, the more likely you are to exceed the allowable weight. We prefer to travel with the smallest bag that will hold all of our necessities, and if you're only going for a quick weekend trip, we highly recommend skipping baggage claim and traveling with just a carry-on.
IMPORTANT: Airlines each have their own limits on checked baggage dimensions and weight (generally, 50 pounds and 62 linear inches). To avoid paying oversized or overweight baggage fees, check your specific airline requirements.
The size difference between a 88-liter checked bag (left) and a 44-liter carry-on. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Do You Need Help With Organization?
Different pieces of luggage offer varying levels of organization to provide easy access and maximize space, ranging from barebones boxes to complex pocket configurations and compression systems. Luggage with well-placed pockets, both inside and out, can make a significant difference when you need to keep track of smaller items. Features such as internal dividers, removable toiletry bags, and suitpackers are all helpful built-in features that can make it easier to live out of a bag for a week or more.
Bags like this one offer a lot of packing features, including the ability to store formal wear like suits or dresses. While this level of organization may not be required for every traveler, it's still important to access your travel needs and packing styles before you buy. Credit: Jason Wanlass
How Often Do You Travel?
Do you have more travel points than you could ever use, or do you only fly every few years? This is a question every traveler should ask themselves before they purchase luggage. Chances are, if you rarely board a plane or cruise ship, you don't need to spend a fortune on a suitcase. There are many cost-effective options to choose from that still offer a decent level of durability. Conversely, if you're on a first-name basis with your local TSA crew, spending a little extra on quality luggage that can stand the test of time will save you from dealing with broken wheels and busted zippers.
Bags like this one can cost nearly $500; however, they are made to last and often offer a more comprehensive warranty. They're ideal for the frequent traveler who needs luggage that will hold up to the rigors of constant movement. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Bags like this one can cost less than $200 but still offers enough structural integrity and design features to well worth the purchase if you travel less and only need to pack your bags once or twice per year. Credit: Jason Wanlass
FAQs
When deciding on luggage, a hardshell will provide increased durability and resistance to impacts. If you plan on checking your bag, a hard shell will provide extra peace of mind when it's not in your possession. However, softshell bags are often lighter weight and have greater capacities on average, especially when you factor in the external pockets. If you go to any airport, hardshells are overwhelmingly more common, but ultimately, the items you travel with and the type of travel will dictate what style is best for your needs.
For travelers who plan on navigating high-traffic hubs such as airports and train stations, luggage with smooth-rolling wheels, telescoping handles, and ergonomic features will keep you moving fast and efficiently, and can provide a convenient place to rest a backpack or handbag if your shoulders need a break. That said, if you travel unconventionally, two-wheeled duffel rollers can be stuffed, tossed, and crammed into spaces where traditional luggage won't fit. They aren't as convenient for city breaks, but if your travels take you far off the beaten path, there's no comparison.
Generally speaking, yes. The old adage “you get what you pay for” holds true in the world of luggage. Premium bags are usually built with better materials, have better warranties, and offer better packing features or other extras that make travel a little more relaxing. That all said, the real question is: how much is too much for your budget? Yes, high-end luggage offers high-end performance and durability, but the market is chock-full of brands that offer exceptional features and construction quality at half the price — these are the bags we prefer.
Heading home from Poland. Testing multiple pieces of luggage on the same trip can be tiring. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Conclusion
There is seemingly no end to the luggage options available to you today. In this review, we take a critical look at some of the best available options. Remember to start by deciding if a roller or a spinner bag will be best for your travel purposes. Then, figure out your budget and think about if there are any “must-have” features you need. We hope this review helps you narrow down the details to find the luggage that best fits your travel plans.
