Which Is The Best Suitcase? 5 Top Picks Reviewed

Delsey Paris Chatelet Hard + Hardside Luggage

BOTTOM LINE
This perfect travel companion offers leather-like accents, a deluxe interior, and all the features you need to make packing a breeze.

PROS
This stylish and functional suitcase is designed with a unique brake system that allows you to easily stop it from rolling away and comes with a deluxe interior featuring a removable hanger and laundry and shoe bags. The four spinner wheels make it easy to maneuver through busy airports, and the lightweight and durable 100% polycarbonate shell ensure your belongings are safe and sound.

CONS
Needs improvement to become more scratch-resistant.

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Travel Select Amsterdam Expandable Rolling Upright Suitcase

BOTTOM LINE
This is an excellent choice for those who are looking for an expandable, lightweight, and durable suitcase.

PROS
The polyester fabric is resistant to tearing and abrasion, and the expanding feature allows you to pack more items without increasing the weight of your suitcase. The push-button handle system makes it a breeze to transport.

CONS
Needs improvement for durability.

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Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds Hardshell Spinner

BOTTOM LINE
A sturdy, small suitcase that is budget-friendly.

PROS
Made of durable, lightweight ABS and features four multi-directional wheels for easy maneuvering. The push-button retractable trolley handle system is user-friendly, and the top and side grab handles make it easy to lift. With reinforced protective molded corner guards, this spinner is built to last.

CONS
Zipper quality needs improvement.

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Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage

BOTTOM LINE
The rugged design can withstand the rigors of travel while still providing the style and function that Samsonite is known for.

PROS
This wheeled luggage has a compact, lightweight design that makes it easy to move around while still being able to endure the stresses of travel. The TSA locks act as theft deterrents, and the expandable structure allows you to pack more inside without sacrificing room. The four spinner wheels make maneuvering through busy airports a breeze.

CONS
Several users have complained about the shell's susceptibility to scratches.

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Delsey Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage

BOTTOM LINE
Constructed from durable polycarbonate, this suitcase is ready to take on whatever you throw at it.

PROS
Made of 100% polycarbonate, it is lightweight yet durable, and superior maneuverability makes it a breeze to navigate through even the busiest airports. Comfortable handle system. Multiple pockets make it easy to access and organize all of your items.

CONS
Expect to pay a premium. It can easily carry more than 50 pounds, which may result in an additional baggage fee.

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HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SUITCASES

The best luggage is not always easy to figure out. With so many styles, sizes, and prices to choose from, it can be overwhelming to shop for luggage. However, it is important to select luggage that is both practical and affordable. Ideally, your luggage should be easy to pack and roll and withstand travel's wear and tear. With so many options available, it is important to compare several brands and products before making a purchase.

In this guide, we'll cover key considerations, features, prices, and tips for using or buying suitcases. By the end, you'll know exactly what to look for in a suitcase that meets all your needs.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A SUITCASE

When buying a suitcase, there are many factors to consider to choose the right one for your needs. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:

Size and weight

Make sure to choose a size that is appropriate for the type of travel you'll be doing. If you're going on a long trip, you'll need a larger suitcase. For shorter trips, a smaller one will suffice. Also, keep in mind the weight of the suitcase when empty – you don't want it to be too heavy to lift!

Material

The material of the suitcase is also important to consider. If you're doing a lot of traveling, you'll want something durable and can withstand being thrown around. For less frequent travelers, a lighter material will do just fine.

Pockets and compartments

Other things to look for in a suitcase are pockets and compartments. This can come in handy for organizing your belongings and keeping things separate. Different pockets and compartments can make finding what you are looking for easier and save your clothes from getting wrinkled. If you like to have everything neat, this is an important feature to look for.

Number of wheels

The number of wheels on a suitcase is important because it affects how easy it is to move the suitcase. A suitcase with four wheels is much easier to move around than a suitcase with two wheels. If you will be traveling a lot, then a four-wheeled suitcase is a good choice. If you use the suitcase occasionally, then a two-wheeled suitcase may be fine.

Warranty

If you're spending a lot of money on a suitcase, it's worth getting one with a good warranty. This way, if anything goes wrong, you'll be covered.

Handle

A handle can make it much easier to carry a suitcase, especially when it is heavy. There are two main types of handles: telescoping and non-telescoping. Telescoping handles can be extended and retracted, which can be helpful when trying to maneuver a heavy suitcase. Non-telescoping handles cannot be extended, but they may be more comfortable to hold.

TYPES OF LUGGAGE

Now that you know what to look for in a suitcase, it's time to start shopping! There are many different types of luggage available on the market. Here is a brief overview of some of the most popular types:

Carry-on luggage

Carry-on luggage is an excellent option for those who want to avoid paying baggage fees. It is also convenient because you can take it on the plane. Many types of carry-on luggage are available, from backpacks to suitcases. When choosing carry-on luggage, make sure to choose something that is easy to carry and meets the size requirements of the airline you are flying with.

Pros of Carry-on Luggage

• Lightweight and easy to carry
• Usually have more compartments which help with organization
• You don't have to check them in, so there's no risk of lost luggage

Cons of Carry-on Luggage

• Limited space – can be challenging to pack for long trips
• May need to be stored in overhead bin, which can be difficult to reach

Checked luggage

When traveling, most people prefer to use carry-on luggage, so they don't have to worry about paying baggage fees. However, there are occasions when checked luggage is necessary. For example, if you are going on a long trip and need to pack a lot of belongings, or if you are traveling with many expensive items.

When choosing checked luggage, make sure to choose something durable with a good warranty.

Pros of Checked Luggage

• More space – can pack for longer trips
• Can be stored in a lower compartment on the plane, which is easier to access

Cons of Checked Luggage

• Heavier and more difficult to carry
• Risk of lost luggage – airlines are responsible for lost luggage, but it can still be a hassle

HARD-SIDED VS. SOFT-SIDED LUGGAGE

Soft-sided luggage

Soft-sided luggage is typically made from fabric such as nylon. Cordura is a type of nylon that is prized for its durability. Other natural fibers used in soft-sided luggage include cotton and canvas.

Soft-sided luggage often has an outer pocket for easy access to items such as boarding passes or travel documents.

In terms of protection, soft-sided luggage does not do as good a job as hard-sided luggage. But for many travelers, the added pliability of soft-sided luggage outweighs any protective advantage of its harder counterpart.

Hard-sided luggage

Hard-sided luggage is typically made from molded plastic or composites such as fiberglass. The material used will affect the weight and durability of the suitcase.

Hard-sided luggage generally offers better protection for your belongings than soft-sided luggage. If you are traveling with fragile items or electronics, hard-sided luggage is a good choice.

Some hard-sided luggage has an outer pocket, but not all do. Although hard-sided luggage is heavier than soft-sided luggage, its added protection is worth the weight for many travelers.

SUITCASE PRICES

Budget-friendly

For under $50, you can find some good suitcases. They usually aren't made of perfect fabric, but they will last a few years. They might get a few rips or tears, but that's okay. Most of them have expandability and telescoping handles. Just be aware that most only have two wheels.

Mid-priced

For $50 to $150, you can find some perfect suitcases. They're usually made of high-quality materials and will last for years.

In this price range, you can find hard-sided and soft-sided suitcases made with premium materials and TSA-approved locks.

They will have four spinner wheels for easy maneuverability.

High-end

For $150 and up, you can find the best of the best. These suitcases are made with top-of-the-line materials and built to last.  They often have features you won't find on cheaper suitcases, like built-in scales and global tracking systems.

TIPS FOR BUYING A SUITCASE

• Know the difference between hard-sided and soft-sided luggage. Hard-sided luggage generally offers better protection than soft-sided luggage, making it a good choice for travelers who are carrying fragile items or electronics. However, soft-sided luggage often has an outer pocket or two that provides easy access to items such as a boarding pass or travel documents. For many travelers, the added pliability of soft-sided luggage outweighs any protective advantage of its harder counterpart.
• Consider your needs and travel habits. If you like to pack many items, you'll need a larger suitcase with more storage space. If you're a frequent traveler, you'll want a suitcase that is easy to maneuver and has TSA-approved locks for added security.
• Choose a size that complies with carry-on restrictions. Depending on the airline, the maximum size for a carry-on bag is between 22 and 24 inches. If you're planning on bringing a carry-on bag, choose a suitcase that falls within these dimensions.
• Compare prices to find the best deal. You can find good suitcases at all price points. Just be sure to compare prices to find the best deal on the type of suitcase you're looking for.
• Buy from a reputable retailer or manufacturer. When buying a suitcase, it's important to buy from a reputable retailer or manufacturer. This will ensure you get a high-quality product that will last for years.
• Make sure the suitcase has a warranty in case of damage or defects. Most reputable retailers and manufacturers offer a warranty on their products. This will give you peace of mind if your suitcase is damaged or defective.

FAQS

Q. What are the dimensions of a carry-on bag?

A. The maximum size for a carry-on bag depends on the airline you are flying. Most airlines have a maximum size of 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches. However, some airlines have a larger maximum size of 24 inches x 16 inches x 10 inches. Check with your airline before you travel to find out their specific requirements.

Q. How do I choose the right suitcase?

A. The type of suitcase you need depends on your travel needs. If you are taking a long trip or traveling with fragile items, a hard-sided suitcase is a good option. For shorter trips or if you need to pack light, a soft-sided suitcase might be a better choice. If you are traveling with a lot of gear, such as for a camping or skiing trip, a duffel bag might be the best option.

Q. How do I pack my suitcase?

A. There are many different ways to pack a suitcase. One method is to roll your clothes up tightly and place them in the bottom of the suitcase. This will help to prevent wrinkles. Another method is putting your clothes in small bundles, each rolled up tightly. You can then place the bundles in the suitcase on top of each other. Whichever method you choose, be sure to pack heavier items at the bottom of the suitcase and lighter items on top.

Q. What should I do if my luggage is lost or stolen?

A. If your luggage is lost or stolen, you should first file a report with the airline. You will also want to contact your travel insurance provider to see if they can help with the cost of replacing your belongings. Keep all receipts and documentation of your belongings, as this will help file a claim.

Delsey Paris Chatelet Hard + Hardside Luggage

BOTTOM LINE
This perfect travel companion offers leather-like accents, a deluxe interior, and all the features you need to make packing a breeze.

Shop Now

Travel Select Amsterdam Expandable Rolling Upright Suitcase

BOTTOM LINE
This is an excellent choice for those who are looking for an expandable, lightweight, and durable suitcase.

Shop Now

Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds Hardshell Spinner

BOTTOM LINE
A sturdy, small suitcase that is budget-friendly.

Shop Now