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We've circled the globe with all kinds of luggage, from rolling carry-ons and organized travel backpacks to oversized duffel bags and checked suitcases, to compile this list of our favorites
That's a wrap: heading home after a long day of side by side testing. We put each bag through the same gauntlet of tests to see how they performed and which ones are the best. And somehow airport security didn't kick us out.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
By Jason Wanlass ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated July 14, 2026
Vacation is fun, lugging around a bag with wobbly wheels or an uncomfortable strap is not. Your luggage should complement your travel experience by fading into the background so you can focus on where you are rather than what you brought.
The best rolling luggage for air travel is the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21" carry-on and the 29" checked bag. This line from Travelpro has smart packing systems and exceptional durability. Pair them with the Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe as your under-seat personal item for a truly smooth travel experience.
For more alternative travel styles, the Cotopaxi Allpa is our recommendation for one-bag travelers (it's still carry-on friendly). Its internal organization makes it highly livable, even for weeks at a time. If you prefer the flexibility of a duffel, the Patagonia Black Hole is impressively stuffable and durable, and has been one of our absolute favorites over the years.
Our team has several decades of experience bouncing around the globe, testing nearly 500 bags in the process, carting our belongings via plane, train, bus, and pack animal to find the best options for every kind of traveler.
Editor's Note: We updated this review on July 14, 2026, to include new models from July, Monos, Osprey and The North Face, and update our buying tips.
Base Weight: 8.1 lbs carry-on, 12.2 lbs checked | Packing Volume: 40.0 L carry-on, 117.0 L checked
Who it is best for: The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On paired with the larger 29" version is the perfect set for nearly any traveler, and we mean it. The impressive construction quality and packing system in both bags make them ideal for business, leisure, and everything in between. We've tested and traveled with several generations of these bags, and we're most impressed by their consistent quality and durability through the years. The carry-on has a 40-liter main compartment that is chock full of pockets, and the checked piece has a generous 117-liter compartment that can fit clothes for 2+ weeks of travel. Both include a roll-away garment bag to carry dress clothes wrinkle-free. What's more, these Travelpros are made to last. Jet-setters who are constantly on the go will find that these bags can keep up.
Why we love it: The Platinum Elite bags have some of the best double-wheeled spinners on the market. They glide like a bowling ball, but what we love most is Travelpro's MagnaTrac® system, which uses embedded magnets to keep each wheel self-aligned. We also loved the dense ballistic nylon shell and angled expansion pocket found on both sizes, which help keep your luggage balanced when standing or rolling. These features make the Travelpro one of the easiest bags to deal with while in transit, which can often be the most stressful part of travel. The carry-on size sports a pre-wired, external USB port that easily connects to any power bank, giving you on-the-go charging for your devices, and the larger 29" checked version has an even better packing system to keep you organized during longer-term stays.
Should you buy it? A higher price tag may be intimidating for some; however, if you travel more than once a year, you'll get your money's worth over time with Travelpro — saving you cash in the long run. “I've used mine for nearly 8 years, and it performs just as well today as when I bought it.” Although no piece of luggage is indestructible, novice and experienced travelers alike will appreciate how these bags can handle the rigors of airports, train stations, car trunks, buses, and more. If you want to maximize your dollar by focusing on quality, this bag is one of your best options.
Base Weight: 7.4 lbs carry-on, 11.6 lbs checked | Packing Volume: 35.3 L carry-on, 99.2 L checked
Who is it best for: The Away the Carry On and the Away the Large make a pair of suitcases that disappear by your side, whether you're heading out on a city break or flying to your in-laws for the holidays. The polycarbonate exterior has a smooth, matte finish, no pockets, and handles that lie nearly flat against the sides of the case, which reduces the chances of damage from air travel. In fact, on one international flight, we checked both a duffel and the Away Large, and the duffel took a beating on the carry straps and external snaps. The Large came away nearly unscathed. While not necessarily budget bags, Away luggage is priced more reasonably than most options with this level of durability and functionality, making it a good choice for those who want to maximize their value/cost ratio. Any more affordable, and you'll start to see lower-quality materials and fewer features.
Why we love it: Like most hard-sided luggage, these bags open up clamshell style, and despite having a minimalist exterior, the inside reveals a simple but highly effective compression panel on one side and a zipper closure on the other. This ensures that all your clothes don't come spilling out when you open the bag, and can help you fit more stuff inside. These bags have smaller capacities than average for their respective categories, so we appreciate the efficient compression system. However, the smaller size means they are more likely to fit within international travel size restrictions, which are often smaller (and held to more strictly) than those of domestic U.S. flights.
Should you buy it? If you travel often and want a bag that can keep up, but don't have the cash to invest in a “travel-set-for-life” right now, Away luggage is a good in-between stop. The features, durability, and simple functionality of the suitcases will keep most people happy. The main complaint we have is about the grab handles. They stay pretty tight to the side of the bag, which can make it difficult to fit your fingers underneath, especially when chasing the bag down a moving luggage carousel. However, our team uses their bags for multiple trips a year, and aside from a few cosmetic dings from the cargo hold, these bags have held up exceptionally well.
Base Weight: 6.6 lbs carry-on, 9.4 lbs checked | Packing Volume: 41.2 L carry-on, 112.5 L checked
Who it is best for: Looking for reasonable quality and function at a fair price? We've tested and used the Samsonite Freeform Spinner and it's big brother the Freeform Large Spinner for about two years, and we know that each one fits the bill when it comes to affordable luggage. These bags will appeal to a broad spectrum of casual vacationers who are looking to walk the fine line of spending just enough to get the quality they need to travel a few times per year. “I really love mine. I tend to travel three to four times per year to see family, and I've really enjoyed how the Freeform Spinner performs in airports and taxi cabs.” We don't recommend this bag for frequent international travel, but that said, we do feel it offers a ton of quality for the price.
Why we love it: The Freeform Spinner rolls well, is stylish, has a great color selection, and it boasts a pliable hardshell case made from polypropylene. It's not as hard as polycarbonate cases, but it's still quite durable. We also liked this bag's large main compartment, comfortable handles, TSA-combo lock, and slide-out name tag. “The carry-on bag can pack just about anything I need for everything from a weekender to a three or four day trip.” Overall, these Samsonite bags are fairly basic, but instead of focusing on tons of fancy features, the manufacturer dialed in on lowering the cost while still delivering solid function. And, we think this trade-off makes it a great balance of affordability and durability for the average traveler looking for a good deal.
Should you buy it? Price-conscious buyers who desire a reasonable amount of quality for a lower price will be drawn to both sizes of the Freeform Spinner. These aren't the cheapest of them all; instead, we honed in on them as a set that brings affordability to the table, but that won't fall apart during their first trip through the cargo hold of a long-haul flight. So, if you like having a balance of a fair price and functional quality, you'll appreciate the Samsonite Freeform bags for their overall value, not just a cheaper price.
Who it is best for: The Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe is ideal for travelers needing a reliable laptop backpack as a personal item during airline travel, particularly for work trips involving electronics. It's perfect for those who prioritize organized storage for tech essentials like laptops, chargers, and documents, while retaining a compact design that fits under plane seats. This backpack suits professionals or tech-savvy travelers who don't need extensive overnight packing capacity or plan to use it in addition to a larger checked bag.
Why we love it: The Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe excels with its padded, dedicated laptop pocket and a secondary sleeve for documents or another device, complemented by auxiliary pockets for pens, keys, chargers, or a wireless mouse. Its thick fabric beads water well, and a waterproof bottom protects against wet surfaces. Additional features include a luggage loop, exterior accessory straps, and a water bottle sleeve, making it highly travel-ready. A tester praised, “I like this pack's extra features. It has a luggage loop across the back, dual electronics sleeves, exterior accessory straps, and a water bottle sleeve. This bag is travel-ready.”
Should you buy it? This is for tech-focused travelers seeking a compact, organized laptop backpack with useful features for airline travel. However, its small dimensions limit its capacity for folders, notebooks, or overnight gear, and the water bottle pocket is designed for skinny bottles only. Choose this if tech organization and compactness are your priorities.
The Timbuk2 is a little light on storage, but its thinner design gives it a nice professional look, and makes it easy to travel with and stow. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Who it is best for: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is perfect for travelers who stay on the go and need to live out of their luggage while maintaining easy access to essentials without unpacking. It's ideal for those embarking on trips with impractical rolling bags, such as multi-week adventures or urban travel through crowded spaces. This backpack suits individuals who value a semi-structured packing system and prefer a comfortable, carry-on-friendly bag over suitcases or duffels.
Why we love it: It stands out for its integrated, yet versatile organizational system, mimicking the benefits of packing cubes with mesh pockets that divide the main compartment to secure socks, essentials, and larger clothes. The main compartment fully unzips without gear spilling out, and the bag is comfortable for extended wear due to its supportive shoulder and waist straps and back panel. The removable waist strap adds versatility for navigating crowds. One tester raved, “I took this on my multi-week trip through Europe, where a rolling bag would slow me down. Its ingenious organizational system made living out and staying organized easy.”
Should you buy it? This is for travelers who don't want to unpack while they travel: accessing items without disrupting careful packing is easy. However, its laptop sleeve is weak, with less padding than we'd like for a full bag and a small, 15-inch sleeve. While excellent for organization, the mesh pocket system and clamshell design limit shoving bulky items in a hurry. But if you prioritize structured packing that you can live out of for weeks — and can overlook the laptop sleeve's shortcomings — this bag is our top recommendation for a carry-on travel backpack.
Keeping Your Essentials Close
Often, when traveling with a carry-on backpack like this one, we find it useful to pair it with a small fanny pack to keep the items we want with us close at hand and not have to rifle through a bulky backpack on the airplane or train.
Weight: 2.6 lb (55 L size) | Sizes Available: 40, 55, 70, 100 L
Who it is best for: The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel is built for travelers who want a tough, versatile bag that's happy in a variety of settings. Duffel Bags go far beyond travel—they double as gym companions, sports gear haulers, or durable weekender bags for spontaneous trips. The Black Hole duffel comes in a wide range of sizes, so you can find the right balance between packability and capacity. Made from weather-resistant, recycled materials, its sleek yet rugged finish protects your gear from scrapes and storms alike. The padded backpack straps attach via D rings, letting you swap between carry styles for added comfort on the go. While the roomy interior favors open space over dividers, this design caters to travelers who value simplicity, toughness, and eco‑conscious materials over heavy internal organization.
Why we love it: The Black Hole Duffel delivers a technical, adventure-ready design built with rugged, weather- and abrasion-resistant fabric and a reinforced base to safeguard gear during transit. Available in multiple capacities, it includes practical touches like removable backpack-style straps for seamless carry options, exterior daisy chains for attaching gear, and on larger versions like the 100-liter, extra zippered pockets and internal compression straps for smarter packing. One tester praised the updates, noting, “The latest model's shoulder straps detach in seconds, making travel transitions smoother than ever.” With its balance of toughness, thoughtful design, and all-condition reliability, it remains a go-to favorite among frequent travelers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Should you buy it? The Black Hole Duffel stands out for its impressive blend of durability and versatility, staying consistently reliable across all sizes and trip types—from weekend escapes to extended adventures. Its flexible design makes it equally at home in airports, truck beds, or gear closets, though its unstructured interior can feel limiting for those who like tidy compartments. Some users may also wish for extra pockets or even wheels for easier transport on long hauls. Still, for travelers who prize resilience, adaptability, and weather resistance above hyper-organization, this duffel delivers standout performance and long-term dependability.
Decent storage capacity despite its lightweight design
Comfy handles and shoulder straps
REASONS TO AVOID
Tends to slightly taco when worn as a backpack
Not as protective as others
Weight: 1.6 lb | Capacity: 60 L
Who it is best for: The Osprey Daylite 60 is ideal for travelers seeking a lightweight, affordable, and versatile bag for weekend getaways, road trips, or gym sessions. Its generous capacity and simple organization suit those who like to keep it simple and just want to toss everything in and get out of town. Perfect for light packers and on‑the‑go adventurers, it balances comfort, durability, and value in a single, do‑it‑all duffel, as one of our testers concluded, “I was so glad to find a trustworthy budget duffel in the Daylite 60, especially knowing that it won't cost me an arm and a leg.”
Why we love it: We love the Osprey Daylite 60 for its balance of practicality and performance. It's light enough that it doesn't feel like lugging a ton of bricks over your shoulder, durable enough to drag through busy terminals, and surprisingly comfortable thanks to its well‑padded straps. “The simple pocket layout keeps essentials accessible without overcomplicating things, and it even packs away inside its own pocket when not in use,” one of our bag experts commented. After testing countless duffels, we appreciate how the Daylite 60 delivers reliable quality and smart design at a price that's much more palatable.
Should you buy it? If you're after a no‑nonsense duffel that balances price, durability, and comfort, the Osprey Daylite 60 is a smart pick. It's not built for hauling extremely heavy loads or offering rigid protection, but it excels as an all‑around travel companion for those who value affordability and simplicity. Whether you're packing for an international adventure, heading to the gym, or road‑tripping across the state, this duffel handles it all with ease. For the price and performance, it's hard to find another bag that adapts as well to so many uses.
Tough, long‑lasting wheels built for frequent travel
Simple and convenient to pack
Offers excellent protection for your gear
REASONS TO AVOID
Slightly heavier than average
May exceed carry‑on size limits on certain airlines
Weight: 8.2 lb | Capacity: 40 L
Who it is best for:The North Face Base Camp Rolling Thunder 22 is best for travelers who want a carry-on roller bag that offers more ease and protection than a duffle, but more flexibility than a hard-sided roller. Its 40-liter capacity and smart internal layout make it ideal for frequent flyers, business travelers, and commuters who prioritize organization and protection for items like laptops and electronics, with an included laptop sleeve at the front of the bag. “Those who don't mind a bit of extra weight in exchange for serious durability and structure will get the most out of this bag,” one of our bag experts concluded.
Why we love it: We love the Rolling Thunder 22 because it combines the toughness of an expedition duffel with the convenience of a modern carry-on. The 1000-denier recycled polyester, hard-shell chassis, and comfy handle inspire confidence, and the oversized wheels tackle uneven surfaces, like gravel or grass, better than traditional luggage. Thoughtful touches like multiple compartments, internal compression, and a padded laptop sleeve make it easy to stay organized without overthinking your packing. We've come to trust it as one of the most protective and hard-wearing small roller duffels in our kit.
Should you buy it? You should buy the Rolling Thunder 22 if you like the rugged duffel vibe, but want a carry-on-friendly roller that prioritizes easy transport, greater durability, and thoughtful organization. Its weight and structure won't appeal to minimalists, but if you travel with fragile gear or just like your belongings well shielded, it's a standout choice. Just be sure to double-check your primary airlines' carry-on dimensions, as size rules vary and this bag will work with many, but not all, airlines. As one of our top gear reviewers shared, “If you're comfortable with its heavier weight and the premium price tag, this is the kind of bag you can confidently roll through years of trips without having to baby it.”
Want a carry-on that works as well for flying as it does for a sports trip? This shell-style roller bag is a great choice. Credit: Zach Lovell
How We Tested
Over the past decade, our team has journeyed far and wide—from weekend escapes, long-haul business trips, and months-long outdoors adventures that redefined what “travel” means to us. Since 2013, we've tested and reviewed nearly 500 travel bags, backpacks, and suitcases, taking them through airports, train stations, and mountain trails across the globe. We've carried them through packed city streets and quiet campgrounds, tested zippers under full load, rolled wheels over cobblestone and sand, and even left them out in downpours to gauge real-world resilience. We've seen materials fray, bag joints snap, and seams give way—but also witnessed innovations that've improved the travel experience. Every “aha” moment and every finding has been carefully noted by our team along the way.
We hauled The North Face Base Camp Rolling Thunder all over Tibet, China, to discover how it would hold up as an elite adventure bag. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Why Trust GearLab
We assembled a team of bag geeks and travel experts to test everything from daypacks to duffel bags to roller suitcases. Jason Wanlass heads our rolling suitcase reviews, testing carry-on and checked sizes. Jason has spent decades wandering the globe searching for adventure with his family. He's traversed continents, taken more airplane trips than he cares to count, and needs great luggage to get him there.
We've tested hundreds of travel bags over the years, heading to far corners of the globe and the office up the road.
Leading the team on the hunt for the best duffel bags and travel backpacks for your journey is Hale Milano and Zach Lovell. Hale has traversed the globe several times, living out of everything from Army-issued duffel bags to rolling suitcases for business trips and ultra-light backpacks for adventure. Whether it's for work or play, Hale never lets his gear hold him back from enjoying his trip. Zach is a full-time year-round IFMGA Mountain Guide who's traveled all over the world with travel bags and duffels of all shapes and sizes. His mountainous pursuits have required him to drag duffels and packs across glaciers, lengthy Himalayan treks, and countless airports.
Many duffel bags we tested have a backpack carry option, which we appreciate when we have to lug our belongings through the airport or down the street. Credit: Hale Milano
How to Pick the Best Travel Bag for You
Travel means something different to everyone—some chase distant horizons, others seek quick weekend escapes, and many simply commute to work. Because travel takes so many forms, travel bags come in an equally wide range of shapes and sizes. From ultralight carry-ons built for efficiency to rugged duffels ready for backcountry adventures, each design serves a unique series of demands. The best bag isn't just about volume or features—it's the one that matches how, why, and where you choose to explore.
We test our travel bags side by side, but we also take them with us to see how they hold up against real-life travel. We examined our REI Co-op Big Haul Rolling Duffel 30" from head to toe on a recent adventure trip to Maine. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Check Your Airline's Carry-On Allowance
While plenty of luggage is advertised as “carry-on size”, some of these bags are actually larger than airlines allow. While US airlines often let things go that aren't overstuffed, certain international carriers have weight limitations instead.
Types of Travel Bags: What are My Options?
There are a lot of bags out there, and most of them can help you get from point A to point B, but depending on your travel style, you will appreciate certain features more than others. Here's the breakdown.
Our pair of Gregorys both proved themselves to be reliable cases while remaining within the realm of affordability. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Rolling Luggage
REASONS TO BUY
Wheels do the heavy lifting
Structured packing space
Better protection for belongings
Professional
REASONS TO AVOID
Not great on stairs/uneven surfaces
Heavier base weight
Take up more space when not in use
This is your traditional suitcase, instantly recognizable as a big rectangular box that you tow along behind you on either two or four wheels, and what most people are looking for when purchasing their first piece of luggage. They can be hard-sided or soft-sided, though both options have highly structured sidewalls that keep their shape even when empty. Carry-on sizes are usually around 30-40L (enough for a 3-5 day trip), while checked sizes are anything larger than that, up to 100L+.
Rolling luggage is a must. Generally, checked luggage is heavy and carry-ons need to make it all the way to your gate. Having smooth rollers makes getting around airports, parking garages, and shuttle buses a whole lot easier. Credit: Jason Wanlass
These bags are easy, convenient, and good for those who don't want to carry the weight of their wardrobe on their shoulders for the whole trip. However, if you need to take a lot of public transportation, navigate stairs, or plan to spend a considerable amount of time walking over gravel or dirt paths, a roller bag can be cumbersome. They work best if you know you'll be staying on the pavement for your entire trip, sticking to rolling over airport floors, concrete sidewalks, and tiled hotel lobbies. This is the preferred bag for most air travel, and while manufacturers keep the bags roughly compatible with airline bag size requirements, it is important to cross-check the bag size against the specific requirements of the airline you most often fly with, as there are slight variations across airlines.
Wheels can make your life much easier on the road. Credit: Zach Lovell
Travel Backpacks
REASONS TO BUY
Can go anywhere
Great interior organization
Can be used for more than just travel
Usually laptop compatible
REASONS TO AVOID
Can get heavy on the shoulders
Limited capacity
Less protective
This isn't your standard school backpack. First, dedicated travel backpacks are much larger, typically ranging from 35L–40L and feature smart, travel‑specific configurations tailored to life on the road. Designed for minimalist or one‑bag travelers, these packs will appeal to those who want freedom and agility above all else. They shine in multi‑leg adventures—perfect for hopping between destinations by plane, train, and bus, then walking the final stretch to your stay without missing a beat. Even if your travel is less exotic, there is still a time and a place for a dedicated travel backpack. Many include ergonomic harness systems, weather‑resistant materials, and dedicated tech sleeves for laptops or chargers, making them a popular carry-on item for digital nomads to use alongside a larger checked bag.
Water repellency test for our travel backpacks. Credit: Hale Milano
Duffel Bags
REASONS TO BUY
Endlessly versatile
Compressible
Can fold up for storage
Great for bulky and oddly shaped items
REASONS TO AVOID
Minimal structure and organization
Less protective
Not comfortable with heavy loads
Fewer features
A classic duffel bag sports a time-tested design that hasn't changed much since its inception, because it simply doesn't need to. At their best, duffel bags bring value in their simplicity. Most have just a single, wide open compartment that is great for packing a lot of clothes, oversized items, or oddly shaped, bulky gear. By some wizardry, their soft-sided, flexible construction allows you to fit more stuff, and they can also be stuffed more easily into oddly shaped spaces, like the trunk of a car or the luggage hold of an overnight bus. The down side is that they are far less protective than traditional luggage, and we would not recommend packing delicate items or electronics in these unless you can keep a close eye on your bag.
Simple yet effective, the everlasting duffel is one of the most versatile bags out there, if you're ok with shouldering all the weight of your belongings. Credit: Zach Lovell
With a bit of care, the Daylite keeps its shape while being backpacked. Credit: Zach Lovell
Using a duffel bag to pack up sports equipment is one of the most common uses, even if your travels are just taking you across town to the local crag. Credit: Zach Lovell
We also appreciate duffels for their everyday versatility. You're not going to tow your hard-sided luggage to the gym or soccer practice, but packing up a duffel with a change of clothes, energy bars, and some water is a no-brainer. This makes duffels a good value option, even if you get a higher-quality one, because they last forever and can be used for just about everything. While the base elements have remained the same over the years, some manufacturers have made improvements in the convenience department, adding removable backpack straps, small grab handles, and even wheels; sometimes all of the above. Rolling duffels in particular are solid choices for journeys that take you straight from the airport to a cabin in the woods.
Duffel bags come in a variety of designs, from wheeled models that also can be backpacked (pictured here) to more minimalist models that keep things light and easy. Credit: Zach Lovell
What's Your Travel Style?
There are many different reasons people are called to travel, and everyone has their own travel style. Sometimes it's more fun (hello beach vacation), other times less fun (last-minute work trip). Sometimes it's for a weekend, sometimes it's for a month. All this comes into play when deciding which type of bag will work best for you.
Reason for Travel
Consider the reasons you most often travel. Do you hop on a plane for frequent business trips? You'll want a low-key yet functional roller bag with an insert to keep your work clothes as wrinkle-free as possible, small enough to fit in the overhead compartment, and durable enough to withstand multiple flights a year. Do you make a lifestyle out of adventure travel where you never know where you're staying or how you're getting there? Either a duffel bag or a travel backpack can get you through pretty much any travel scenario and stay in one piece while doing it. Maybe you live for that yearly beach vacation or multi-state road trip with the family. In this case, you probably don't need the burliest or fanciest bag, just a solid, affordable piece that can fit everything for you and the kids. Wheels are preferred if you're flying, and duffels are great when you need to pack it all into the trunk of the car.
We're always on the lookout for our next travel opportunity. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Methods of Transportation
Roller bags are great for air travel; in fact, these bags are designed with this use in mind, and many airport amenities are designed to accommodate these structured, rectangular pieces of luggage. Most pieces of rolling luggage are made to fit within airline restrictions (but always double-check for yourself) and withstand the rigors of the cargo hold so you can travel with greater confidence. If you'll mainly be walking through airports or along paved sidewalks, a wheeled bag will make your journey much more convenient.
Overhead bins are designed with roller bags like these in mind.
If a plane is not your primary method of transportation, other bags might be better. If you need to make a lot of transfers from train to bus to ferry, with a 15-minute walk in between each one, and then carry your bag up four flights of stairs to get to your accommodation, all of a sudden wheels are more of a heavyweight hindrance than a help. In these cases, a bag that you can carry on your back becomes super valuable. Either a duffel or a travel backpack will work best here, as frequent changes from plane to train to city bus to walking over uneven stones require more agility.
Duffel bags are usually lighter, but not all are as light as the Dakine EQ 750L - if you're traveling with a heavier bag or a bigger load, air travel might get a bit more expensive. Credit: Zach Lovell
Packing Style
Your packing style will determine the amount of organization you should look for in a bag, as well as the overall size. We have some friends who can pack for a week in a 20L personal item. We have other friends who check a bag every time they fly. If you know you are an overpacker, you'll probably want a bigger bag, but try to get one with good internal compression straps, and that isn't too big so you don't go overboard. If your preference is fast and light, one-bag travel might be your thing, and there is a travel backpack out there calling your name. Organizational nerds can look for models with lots of pockets, compartments, and straps so that everything has its place. Dump-and-go packers can find duffels, backpacks, and rollers that are simply open caverns waiting to be filled. It's worth noting that single-compartment bags are also more compatible with packing cubes, allowing you to customize your organization system for each trip.
Do you tend to be an organized packer? Credit: Jason Wanlass
Or do you like to just throw things in willy-nilly? Credit: Jason Wanlass
Do tend to come home with wet clothes and muddy shoes? Credit: Jason Wanlass
Or do you mostly travel for work? Credit: Jason Wanlass
How Big of a Bag Should I Get?
Getting the right size bag will allow you to pack everything you need, without lugging around a bunch of unused space, or paying extra fees at the airport check-in counter. There is no universally “right size”, it mostly depends on your trip length. For quick weekend trips, you can get away with 20L-30L. To fit a week's worth of clothing, you'll want to size up to ~40L. For longer-term travel and trips over 2 weeks, you'll want something between 60L-90L depending on the weather at your destination. Bikinis and shorts take up a lot less room than sweaters and winter coats.
Travel Bag Capacity
Category
Volume
Trip Length
What Fits Inside?
Personal Item
20L-32L
1-3 days
Laptop/tablet and chargers, a small toiletry bag, 1-2 outfits, travel docs
Carry-On
35L-45L
5-7 days
5-7 shirts, 2-3 pairs of pants, 1 light jacket/sweater, 1 extra pair of shoes, and a medium toiletry bag
Checked Bag
50L-90L
10-14+ days
10+ summer outfits, OR multiple bulky layers (winter coats, thick knits), 2-3 extra pairs of shoes, full-sized toiletries, and room for souvenirs
Oversized Luggage
100L+
1+ months, expeditions, and moves (often subject to additional fees)
Skis, snowboards, golf clubs, surfboards, heavy camping gear, or large musical instruments
Note that if you are flying, many luggage manufacturers make their bags to fit within airline size restrictions for both checked and carry-on luggage. However, it is easier to exceed the weight limit (usually around 50lbs) than the linear dimensions with most checked bags, especially if you're an efficient packer. So be sure to weigh bags at home to avoid paying extra fees at the airport.
One of our larger pieces of luggage we've tested (more than 100 liters) next to one of the smallest models we've tested (80 liters). Credit: Jason Wanlass
The largest checked bag we've used (143.5 total liters). Credit: Jason Wanlass
How to Put Together a Great Luggage Travel System
The most seasoned travelers we know usually leave home with a tried-and-true system. Owning 2-3 versatile bags will allow you to adapt your setup to any trip length and to any destination, ultimately getting the most out of your luggage.
Your main bag should be able to hold the meat of your belongings, acting as a portable wardrobe while away from home. This can be either a carry-on, checked bag, or weekender duffel, depending on how long you'll be gone. Using packing cubes to organize clothing and toiletries can make it more livable when you arrive.
Your bag will hold the bulk of your clothing and toiletries. However, the biggest bag isn't always the best. Sizing your luggage according to your trip length and packing habits will ensure you're not hauling around empty space. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Your secondary bag, or personal item, can be a small tote or backpack that you can keep by your side, whether flying, road tripping, or taking the bus. This is a perfect place to stash essentials like your travel docs, phone, earbuds, a water bottle, medications, some snacks, and maybe a book; anything you might want easy, immediate access to during your travels. If you bring your computer, a laptop backpack offers protection and organization for your tech. If you plan to hike or adventure at your destination, you may substitute a daypack. As long as it fits under the seat in front of you, most US airlines will allow it.
A great personal item (like the Wandrd Nimbus 18 shown here) fits seamlessly into your travels, keeping your essentials close without weighing you down. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Your personal item can double as a daypack if you plan to do any hiking at your destination. Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Bottom Line: If you typically travel for a week or less, an expandable carry-on paired with a decent-sized backpack as your personal item is an elite combo that offers flexibility in packing capacity and saves you from checked baggage fees. If your trips usually last 2 weeks or more, you'll want to replace the carry-on with a larger checked bag.
If you like to keep things simple, you might be interested in one bag travel. Specialized travel backpacks eliminate the need for 2-3 different bags, and work great for minimalist travelers who are always on the move.
While many US carriers are fairly relaxed about the size and weight of your bags, international airlines can sometimes be a little more picky. It's good to have an idea of your bag's dimensions before you buy. A simple online search will tell you what most airlines expect. Credit: Jason Wanlass
FAQs
TLDR; yes, but you really only need a few.
The long answer is that most modern suitcases come with some level of internal organization, and for some people, it's enough. However, some may find it helpful to have more compartments to stash things, especially in larger checked bags. Packing cubes can help you stay organized on longer trips and help keep your suitcase from turning into a dumping ground. Depending on who you are, using packing cubes for everything in your case can feel like more work than it's worth, but at the very least, we find it helpful to use one for toiletries, and one to keep dirty items, like shoes or worn clothes, away from the clean.
Luggage sets are often sold in a bundle of three suitcases of different sizes - carry-on, medium checked, and large checked. Together they usually cost less than if you were to buy each bag individually, but is it really worth it? If you are buying for yourself, we think no. In our experience, most travelers use only one or two bags at a time, and they settle into their favorite capacity and stick with it, leaving the third bag to gather dust in the closet. Additionally, since the bags are sold as a set, you can't mix and match features (maybe you want an expandable soft-sided carry-on for flexibility but a large hard-sided checked bag for security).
The exception is if you plan to share the set with your family or partner. In this case, it might be more worth it. Between two people, all pieces of the set will see more use, and it will save you from buying two of the same bag.
Each style has its pros and cons. Soft-sided bags have some give and are more flexible if you want to squeeze in that last souvenir, and the material hides scratches and dings much better. The other pro of soft-sided bags is that they usually open with a top lid rather than a clamshell and take up much less space in cramped hotel rooms. However, the fabric, while usually water resistant, will not hold up as well to a downpour as the solid polycarbonate plastic used in hardsided bags. Hardsided luggage is also easier to clean, and offers more robust protection for electronics or other delicate items in your bag. Soft-sided bags used to have the edge when it came to external organization, but hard-sided cases are catching up, as many manufacturers are adding outer pockets large enough to fit everything from your passport to your laptop.
Either style will get your belongings from A to B, so it really comes down to how you travel. For air travel, hardsided roller bags dominate the airport crowd. Go to any airport these days, and you'll see a sea of sleek hardsided roller bags. However, since soft-sided rollers and duffel bags can be mushed into unusual spaces, such as the trunk of a car, they work very well for land travel, such as on buses, trains, or in a car.
If you are carrying valuables, or you just don't want anyone snooping around in your bag after you drop it off at the check-in counter, you've likely considered getting a lock for your luggage. However, if you use a standard padlock, TSA agents will use bolt cutters to remove it if they need to inspect the bag. A TSA-approved lock can be opened by airport security with a universal master key. Most modern suitcases come with these built in, but if yours doesn't, you can always buy one separately.
If you don't carry valuables, or only travel with a carry-on, you can probably skip this feature. And keep in mind that you should always keep true valuables by your side throughout travel. Never put expensive jewelry, electronics, or cash in your checked bag.
Hardshells can be more protective and handle travel's common bumps and bruises. However, their shells are less flexible. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Softshells have more exterior pockets and they're more flexible, so they can accommodate different shapes and sizes. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Other Notable Travel Bags to Consider
The bags listed above are the ones we consider best for most people; however, there are a lot of other great bags out there that fit more of a niche travel style. If this sounds like you, they might be worth checking out.
July Carry-on Max: Do you find yourself coming home with more stuff than planned? If you tend to over collect souvenirs or if you just tend to over pack, we think the July Carry-on Max is the right option for you. It's the largest carry-on we've tested (50 liters). And, if that isn't enough space, the July can expand and it also has a pack-along tote bag that can become an instant personal item.
Monos Hybrid Trunk Large: This beautiful trunk-style checked bag is all about the retro vibe. Built to last and ready for world travel, we think the best feature about the Monos is its dashing good looks. We've never tested luggage like this, and we fell in love with its unique steamer trunk dimensions, large buckle-style closer, and flashy rivets and hardware. It also has a very smooth roll.
Osprey Farpoint Fairview Wheeled 36L: If you're stuck deciding between the convenience of a roller bag and the mobility of a backpack, the Farpoint Fairview pack is a good blend of the two. It has stowable shoulder and hip straps that you can use when traversing stairs or gravel paths. Dual-roller wheels and a trolley handle allow you to pull it along behind to give your shoulders a break when walking on pavement.
Monos Carry-On Pro: If you frequently travel with a laptop, but don't want to carry it in a backpack or tote on your shoulder, this carry-on from Monos has a dedicated exterior laptop compartment that provides easy access to your tech without having to open the entire case. Protection from the hardsided exterior left us confident when traveling with our laptop inside, although if you have to gate check your bag last minute, we still recommend removing all valuables and tech.
Happy travels. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Conclusion
From weekend getaways to months‑long adventures abroad, the right travel bag can completely change how you move through the world. Our testing and comparisons reveal that performance goes beyond storage—it's about comfort, adaptability, and reliability when the journey surprises you. Whether you're hauling gear through a mountain pass or weaving through crowded terminals, these top‑rated packs and duffels are built to make travel smoother, lighter, and more intuitive. Wherever you head next, may your bag be as ready for adventure as you are.
