Top 10 Suitcases
Luggage Travelpro Platinum Elite
The Luggage Travelpro Platinum Elite stands out with its PrecisionGlide System, which offers precise control and an effortless roll thanks to its eight MagnaTrac self-aligning spinner wheels. The height-adjustable PowerScope handle with a comfortable Contour Grip makes maneuvering this suitcase a breeze.
When it comes to keeping your clothes wrinkle-free, the drop-in, fold-out suiter is a game-changer. The interior tie-down system, complete with built-in accessory pockets and a TSA-compliant, removable quart-sized wet pocket, adds to the convenience. The leather top and side carry handles, along with the bottom cup, provide multiple carrying options.
Security is not compromised with the integrated lock that allows TSA authorities to safely inspect the suitcase when needed. The Supra zipper heads are designed to resist damage from frequent use, ensuring durability.
This large suitcase also features a tapered expansion design that keeps the center of gravity low, reducing the risk of tipping while offering up to 2 inches of additional packing capacity. The high-density nylon fabric with DuraGuard coating resists stains and abrasions, making it a durable choice for frequent travelers.
With dimensions of 25 in x 18 in x 11.25 in and an overall size of 28 in x 18.5 in x 11.75 in, this suitcase weighs 9.8 lbs and has a volume of 97 L. It comes with a Limited Lifetime Coverage plus a trusted companion promise, covering the cost of repair for damage from airlines or other common carriers for the period the product is owned by the original purchaser or gift recipient.
Compared to other products, the Travelpro Platinum Elite offers superior maneuverability and durability, making it a top choice for travelers.
Pros
Superior maneuverability Durable high-density nylon fabric Integrated TSA-compliant lock
Cons
Heavier than some other models
Tip #1
Consider the size and weight restrictions of airlines before purchasing.
Luggage Samsonite Freeform
Ranked at number 2, the Samsonite Freeform luggage set stands out for its exceptional durability and lightweight design. This set includes a 21" Carry On and a 28" Spinner, making it versatile for both short and long trips.
The ultra-light and ultra-strong shells are designed to withstand the rigors of modern travel, ensuring your belongings remain safe and secure. The recessed TSA combination lock provides added security, while the four multi-directional double spinner wheels allow for 360-degree upright rolling, so there's no weight on your arm or shoulder.
Samsonite’s 10-year limited warranty attests to the product's high quality and durability. The cases also expand for added packing capacity, making them perfect for travelers who tend to bring back more than they left with.
In comparison to other products, the Samsonite Freeform offers:
- Superior durability with its ultra-strong shell
- Enhanced mobility with 360-degree spinner wheels
- Added security with a recessed TSA combination lock
However, it does come at a higher price point compared to other options like the Kenneth Cole REACTION Out of Bounds or the American Tourister Stratum 2.0, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious travelers.
Pros
Superior durability with its ultra-strong shell Enhanced mobility with 360-degree spinner wheels Added security with a recessed TSA combination lock
Cons
Higher price point compared to other options
Tip #2
Look for suitcases with durable materials like polycarbonate or ABS.
Luggage LEVEL8 Trunk
The Luggage LEVEL8 Trunk ranks 3rd on our list of top suitcases. This carry-on suitcase is made of a 3-layer polycarbonate hardshell, which is not only lightweight but also provides excellent elasticity and resiliency. The micro-diamond textured design minimizes unwanted marks during checking, ensuring that your suitcase looks as good as new even after multiple trips.
Security is a top priority with the LEVEL8 Trunk, featuring a built-in TSA code lock and smooth zippers for easy access. The suitcase meets most domestic and international airline regulations, making it a versatile choice for frequent travelers. Maneuverability is another strong point, thanks to the 8 silent universal spinner wheels and an aluminum telescoping ergonomic handle with four levels of adjustment.
Inside, the suitcase is designed for spacious packing. It features a split case design with two roomy, fully lined compartments and a zipper mesh pocket to keep items neatly organized. The overall dimensions are 29.1" x 16.6" x 13.3", including wheels and handles, and it weighs 11.44 lbs with a packing capacity of 99 liters.
While the LEVEL8 Trunk offers a 2-year warranty and has been rigorously tested to meet stringent standards, it is on the heavier side compared to some other models. However, its durability and organizational features make it a reliable choice for long-term use.
In comparison to other products like the Samsonite Winfield 2 and the Travelpro Maxlite 5, the LEVEL8 Trunk stands out for its robust build and excellent packing capacity, although it may not be as lightweight as the Travelpro Maxlite 5.
Pros
Robust build quality Excellent packing capacity
Cons
Heavier compared to other models
Tip #3
Check if the suitcase has a TSA-approved lock for added security.
Luggage Samsonite Winfield 2
The Luggage Samsonite Winfield 2 ranks fourth on our list. This set includes a 20" Carry On, 24" Spinner, and 28" Spinner, offering a comprehensive solution for travelers looking to maximize their packing power. The multi-directional spinner wheels provide effortless mobility, making it easy to navigate through crowded airports.
One of the standout features is the side-mounted TSA locks, which ensure that only you or a TSA agent can access your belongings. The 1.5" expansion capability allows you to pack more items, while the compression keeps your clothing neatly pressed. The unified brushed pattern on the front and back shells helps hide potential scratches and scuffs, maintaining the suitcase's sleek appearance.
The luggage is made of 100% polycarbonate, which is both tough and scratch-resistant, ensuring durability over time. The lightweight telescopic handle locks in place for easy maneuvering, and the handsome slider design features an oversized #10 zipper and interior divider with organizational pockets for better packing efficiency.
Compared to other products, the Samsonite Winfield 2 offers a balance of durability, style, and functionality. However, it is priced higher than some other options on the market.
Pros
Durable 100% polycarbonate material Effortless mobility with multi-directional spinner wheels Side-mounted TSA locks for added security
Cons
Higher price point compared to other options
Tip #4
Spinner wheels offer better maneuverability compared to fixed wheels.
Luggage SHOWKOO Expandable
The Luggage SHOWKOO Expandable stands out with its top-quality materials and excellent durability. Made from brand new extra-thick PC+ABS materials, this hardshell suitcase is not only durable but also lighter and impact-resistant. The textured finish helps prevent scratches, keeping the luggage looking pristine trip after trip.
One of the standout features is its silent and smooth multi-directional spinner wheels. These wheels, made with soft TPU and lubricating balls, ensure that the luggage moves very quietly and smoothly, even with a full load. The luggage has also passed rigorous tests, including a perfect drop test and a walking test, making it a reliable choice for long-term travels and business trips.
The adjustable and sturdy ergonomic aluminum 3-step telescoping handle allows for easy maneuvering in tight spaces. Additionally, the suitcase includes two reinforcement brackets on the flip side of the top and side carry handles to avoid hardshell cracking, and soft rubbers to protect your fingers when lifting heavy items.
Security is well-addressed with the side-mounted TSA lock, which allows only TSA agents to inspect your bags without damaging the lock. The zippers are designed to resist penetration by sharp objects, adding an extra layer of security for your belongings.
Inside, the luggage features a full-zip interior divider and cross straps for increased packing organization. The handsome slider in square, full-capacity design, along with organizational pockets, makes packing and accessing your items a breeze.
While the SHOWKOO Expandable offers excellent features, it does face stiff competition from other brands like Samsonite and Travelpro, which offer similar durability and functionality. However, its competitive price point makes it a strong contender in the market.
Pros
Durable and impact-resistant materials Silent and smooth spinner wheels Competitive price point
Cons
Heavier than some competitors
Tip #5
Opt for expandable luggage if you often find yourself needing extra space.
Luggage SwissGear Sion
The SwissGear Sion ranks 6th on our list of top suitcases. This rolling suitcase is perfect for those who frequently navigate crowded airports. It features 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels and a locking retractable push/pull handle, making it easy to maneuver.
With multiple front panel pockets, including a built-in ID tag, this expandable luggage measures 30 x 18.5 x 12.5 inches, offering ample packing space. The packing dimensions are 28.5 x 17.25 x 12.5 inches. Made from durable, scuff-resistant polyester fabric, the suitcase also features a fully lined interior with adjustable tie-down straps to secure garments in place.
For effortless organization, the luggage bag includes a removable zippered wet bag, a large mesh lid pocket, and a packing pocket for holding small items and accessories. The reinforced padded top handle, along with integrated side and bottom handles, makes lifting and carrying the luggage a breeze.
Compared to other products, the SwissGear Sion offers excellent organizational features and durability. However, it lacks some advanced features like built-in TSA locks and high-density nylon fabric found in higher-ranked suitcases.
Pros
Excellent organizational features Durable and scuff-resistant polyester fabric
Cons
Lacks built-in TSA locks No high-density nylon fabric
Luggage Travelpro Maxlite 5
Ranked at number 7, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 offers a lightweight and durable option for travelers. Weighing just 5.4 lbs, this 21-inch carry-on is a half-pound lighter than its predecessor, the Maxlite 4. It meets carry-on size restrictions for most domestic airlines, making it a convenient choice for frequent flyers.
The Maxlite 5 features 4-wheel spinners that rotate 360 degrees for a smooth roll, and a PowerScope handle with rubberized touch points for easy maneuvering. The unique bottom tray design increases durability, ensuring the suitcase withstands the rigors of travel.
This carry-on expands up to 2 inches, maximizing packing capacity, and includes multiple compartments for efficient organization. The interior features a full-length lid pocket, side accessory pocket, and adjustable hold-down straps.
In terms of dimensions, it measures 21 in x 14 in x 9 in for the case alone, and 23 in x 14.5 in x 9 in overall, including wheels and handles. With a volume of 46 liters, it provides ample space for a short trip.
Compared to other options like the Samsonite Winfield 2 or the LEVEL8 Trunk, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 stands out for its lightweight design but may lack some of the advanced features and durability found in higher-end models.
Pros
Lightweight design Meets most domestic airline carry-on size restrictions Multiple compartments for organization
Cons
May lack advanced features found in higher-end models Durability may not match more premium options
Luggage American Tourister Stratum 2.0
Ranked at number 8, the American Tourister Stratum 2.0 Carry On Spinner is designed for short trips, typically lasting 1-3 days. The suitcase features a sturdy ergonomic carbon fiber texture trolley grip that adjusts to your size, ensuring comfortable handling.
One of its standout features is the wear and tear tested ball wheel, which provides maximum stability and comfort. The large zipper pulls are designed for smooth operation, making it easy for hands of all kinds to use. The suitcase also boasts a max-capacity interior, including a modesty pocket, mesh door pocket, and elastic tie tapes to keep your items organized.
The textured shiny ABS shell not only adds a touch of elegance but also expands by 1 inch, offering additional packing space when needed. While this luggage performs well for short trips, it might not offer the same level of durability and capacity as some higher-ranked models like the Samsonite Freeform or the Travelpro Platinum Elite.
Pros
Ergonomic carbon fiber texture trolley grip Wear and tear tested ball wheel
Cons
Limited capacity for longer trips May not be as durable as higher-ranked models
Luggage U.S. Traveler Boren
Ranked at number 9, the Luggage U.S. Traveler Boren stands out with its hardshell exterior, designed to be waterproof for all your rainy travels. The hardshell construction is built to absorb impact, ensuring durability over time.
The retractable handle system allows you to maneuver your bag with ease, and the top and side grab handles are designed to make lifting easy and convenient. The 360-degree spinner wheels provide smooth and effortless mobility, making it a breeze to navigate through crowded airports.
Inside, the luggage features an imprinted fully-lined interior with a zippered center divider. Tie-down straps help secure your belongings, and the clam shell opening provides easy organization.
However, when compared to other products, the U.S. Traveler Boren lacks some advanced features such as TSA locks and expandable capacity. Additionally, while its design is functional, it may not be as aesthetically pleasing as some of the higher-ranked options.
Overall, the U.S. Traveler Boren is a reliable choice for those seeking durability and ease of use, but it falls short in terms of additional features and visual appeal when compared to other suitcases in the top 10 list.
Compared to the Luggage Travelpro Platinum Elite, which offers a more sophisticated design and additional security features, the U.S. Traveler Boren is more basic but still functional.
Pros
Waterproof hardshell exterior Durable impact-absorbing construction
Cons
Lacks advanced features like TSA locks No expandable capacity Less aesthetically pleasing design
Luggage Kenneth Cole REACTION Out of Bounds
Ranked at number 10, the Kenneth Cole REACTION Out of Bounds luggage offers a mix of durability and functionality. The hardshell exterior is designed to be waterproof, making it ideal for rainy travels. Additionally, the construction is built to absorb impact, providing extra protection for your belongings.
The retractable handle system allows for easy maneuverability, and the top and side grab handles ensure convenient lifting. The 360-degree spinner wheels enable smooth and effortless mobility, meeting FFA size requirements while maximizing carrying capacity.
Inside, the luggage features an imprinted fully-lined interior with a zippered center divider. The tie-down straps help secure your belongings, and the clam shell opening provides easy organization. The 30” spinner's dimensions are 29.5”H x 19.25”W x 12”D, with a weight of 9.23 lbs.
While the Kenneth Cole REACTION Out of Bounds luggage is durable and lightweight, it lacks some of the advanced features found in higher-ranked suitcases. For example, the Travelpro Platinum Elite offers a more sophisticated precision glide system and integrated lock, and the Samsonite Winfield 2 comes with a 10-year limited warranty and advanced spinner wheels.
Pros
Waterproof hardshell exterior Lightweight and durable
Cons
Lacks advanced features found in higher-ranked suitcases No integrated lock
What is the best type of Suitcase to buy?
When considering the best type of suitcase to buy, several key factors should be taken into account. These factors will help you make an informed decision based on your specific travel needs and preferences.
- Material: Choose between hard-shell and soft-shell suitcases. Hard-shell suitcases offer better protection for fragile items, while soft-shell suitcases are more flexible and can fit into tighter spaces.
- Size: Consider the duration of your trips. For short trips, a carry-on suitcase is sufficient. For longer trips, you may need a medium or large suitcase.
- Weight: Lightweight suitcases are easier to handle and can help you avoid excess baggage fees. Look for materials like polycarbonate or aluminum.
- Wheels: Opt for suitcases with four wheels (spinner wheels) for better maneuverability. Two-wheeled suitcases are more stable on uneven surfaces.
- Security: Look for suitcases with built-in TSA-approved locks to ensure your belongings are secure.
- Compartments: Multiple compartments can help you organize your belongings better. Look for suitcases with interior dividers, pockets, and compression straps.
- Brand: Consider reputable brands known for durability and quality, such as Samsonite, Tumi, and Rimowa.
How to find the right Suitcase?
When selecting a suitcase, consider the following factors:
- Size: Determine the appropriate size based on the length of your trip and airline regulations.
- Material: Choose between hard-shell and soft-shell materials depending on your preference for durability and flexibility.
- Weight: Opt for a lightweight suitcase to avoid extra baggage fees and ease of mobility.
- Wheels: Look for suitcases with four wheels for better maneuverability and stability.
- Compartments: Ensure the suitcase has multiple compartments for organized packing.
- Security: Check for built-in locks and other security features to protect your belongings.
- Brand and Warranty: Consider reputable brands that offer warranties for added peace of mind.
- Price: Balance your budget with the features you need.