The Best Checked Luggage That Makes Travel Easier (2024)

“I bought this Tumi Alpha suitcase in Paris after an inexpensive suitcase broke on my way to Paris Fashion Week,” Shirley tells Bazaar. “Getting the tax rebate made it more affordable!” Although an investment, it has been put to the test and remains a favorite of this expert. “I’ve had it for over a decade and have put it through every test imaginable: long trips, short trips, planes, trains, buses, yachts, subways, and cars,” she says. “It can handle anything, and it makes long travel journeys with lots of connections easier to navigate, thanks to the four spinning wheels and sturdy handle.”

The 30-inch height and expansive capabilities make a long journey (or even an editor’s Fashion Week, where major looks are a must!) completely possible with one case. No more extra baggage fees in your future. And don’t worry, there are still all the classic Tumi features customers love—including a TSA-approved lock and compartments galore.

What reviewers are saying: “Just as the description says ‘Don't think twice what to pack’. Take it all. Whether you’re driving, flying, or going on a cruise, you will not regret having this case. Everything about it says quality. I honestly haven’t found anything I don’t like about it. Would you really expect anything less from Tumi. Absolutely not.”

Exterior dimensions: 12.99" x 22.05" x 30.91"

Weight: 17.9 pounds

Colors: Black, anthracite

“I have the Away Carry-On bag, which is great for short trips, and my family uses the Large checked bag, so I’ve seen it in action,” Shirley says. “It’s a great, affordable choice for people who prefer hard-sided bags.” Although simple in design, the durable shell has been tested for high impact, while the compressive interior packs it all in. The 36o-degree wheels and a removable laundry bag are additional noteworthy details that, while simple, make this suitcase so great. “Away also offers a limited lifetime warranty, should you have any problems with it, which is unique,” Shirley notes. “Most companies offer a five-year warranty.”

She also recommends using a unique luggage tag, given the brand’s immense popularity, so it won’t get lost in the sea of matching cases on the carousel. Or try one of the limited-edition standout colors that Away sporadically introduces. (Get ’em while they’re hot, though—they go fast.)

What reviewers are saying: “Very nice case, the blue color distinguishes it from all others. The sturdiness is great along with the room. This is our second large case. The first one is holding up perfectly. This size case isn’t that much more than others but the lifetime warranty makes up for the price.”

Exterior dimensions: 29" x 20.5" x 12.5"

Weight: 12.1 pounds

Colors: Navy blue, coast blue, olive green, sorbet orange, jet black, salt white

“Paravel’s Aviator Grand is the first-ever carbon-neutral checked luggage,” Shirley tells us. “It’s constructed from many recycled materials that are sustainably sourced, and all production and shipping emissions are offset by the company. It even estimates the emissions that your first trip will generate and offsets those too!” This eco-friendly option doesn’t sacrifice on style, either.

“The Aviator design is elegant and unique, with two contrasting stripes of vegan leather that wrap around the bag, and it is sure to stand out on the baggage carousel,” Shirley says. “The unique textured finish isn’t just for show—it helps hides the inevitable scuffs that any bag will get once it’s checked.” She also loves the included laundry bag to help keep you organized when traveling.

What reviewers are saying: “The aviator luggage is the best. I have the carry-on and the matching checked luggage. The checked luggage is the perfect size for longer-term trips, and the color selection is great.”

Exterior Dimensions: 18.25" x 28" x 11"

Weight: 11.8 pounds

Colors: Safari green, scuba navy, derby black, scout tan, domino black

“Rimowa is the ultimate cool-girl luggage, and has been on my wish list for years,” Shirley says. “The Rimowa Essential Check-in L comes in a lot of fun, fashionable colors.” She suggests this matte blue, noting it won’t get dinged up too badly in the airport during travel. Although an investment, Shirley notes that Rimowa created the world’s first polycarbonate suitcase, and that the brand has been responsible for a lot of advances in luggage design, making the price tag worth it. She recommends this suitcase for trips lasting a week to 10 days. A favorite feature? “It has a telescoping handle that you can stop at any height, not just a couple predetermined ones, which is very convenient.”

What reviewers are saying: “I came for a different piece of luggage and loved that too, but the sheer beauty of the Rimowa stole my heart. As beautiful as it is, it is equally functional. It has super smooth wheels and makes a statement on any flight or hotel check-in.”

Exterior dimensions: 30.6" x 20.5" x 11.1"

Weight: 10.6 pounds

Colors: Matte blue, matte black, black gloss, sea blue gloss, slate gloss, green gloss, petal pink gloss

Minimalist-inspired luggage that is crafted with high-quality parts and materials, without the designer markup, is the founding concept behind the brand Monos. Its clean, durable luggage has become a favorite due to its lasting appeal and thoughtful designs. The Hybrid Check-In Large was made with longer treks in mind, or for those who are notorious over-packers. Notable features include an aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shell made from partially recycled materials, aluminum frame and corner guards for protection from damage in transit, reinforced wheel housing that supports extra weight, and two TSA-approved locks. With countless customer reviews, this one is a no-brainer, especially given the price point.

What reviewers are saying: “My first piece of ‘expensive’ luggage has been great for my first 8 day trip. It’s sturdy… I sat on new luggage after finally getting it packed and the sides didn’t fold in or flex holding 140+ pounds! Wheels rolled well through the journey and the locking system is great. Only disappointed in how the luggage crew scuffled up my new hauler. Worth the money and excited to buy the smaller sizes soon.”

Exterior dimensions: 30" x 21" x 11"

Weight: 13 pounds

Colors: Obsidian, silver, champagne

If you ever lusted after the old-fashioned travel trunks of the Hollywood golden era, SteamLine Luggage offers the same authentic look, updated for modern use. This spinner suitcase is surprisingly lightweight, given the unique, structured shape, weighing in at only 9.3 pounds. The outside is covered with a luxe, linen fabric and leather straps for chic styling. This is one suitcase that you won’t want sitting in your closet after travel. Modern features include TSA-approved locks, silent glide wheels, and a three-tier telescopic handle. Extras include a hanging travel kit and organization zippers and pockets to keep contents secure. There is also a ripstop cover included, which will keep this beautiful case clean and protected while in transit, so you won’t have to worry about damage.

What reviewers are saying: “My SteamLine Luggage editor case is one of the most beautiful items that I own. It has a vintage look and very high quality. I hope to pass on one day, as they are pieces I use for much of my travels, especially to places like Paris and New York. I love that when traveling with this luggage I am always stopped and asked about it, is it vintage? There is SO much detail in these crafted luggage pieces, from the leather straps and brass hardware to the gorgeous liners that are full of character. Every time I open up one of my cases to pack I am excited, these luggage pieces come on all of my special trips with my stylish pals, they make for the best bags!”

Exterior dimensions: 25" x 17" x 10"

Weight: 9.3 pounds

Colors: Black, brown, navy

When July was created, the brand’s founders looked at over 4,000 reviews of competitors’ products to determine what consumers wanted. After extensive research, the brand created its signature eggshell shape, which houses wheels in a new way and protects corners from damage on long journeys. The wheels are also custom to the brand, to create a silent-yet-functional system that can withstand anything from European cobblestones to a gravel sidewalk. The aerospace-grade German polycarbonate shell is a match for wear and tear, as well. And the included nylon, stain-proof laundry bag is just the icing on the cake. Take yours for a spin with July’s 100-day return policy to truly experience the quality.

What reviewers are saying: “When I go on holiday for the long term, I use this Checked Plus. It’s big and so much stuff you can put in it. I like the design and the size. I’m glad I have it.”

Exterior dimensions: 30.25" x 19.75" x 12.5"

Weight: 10.5 pounds

Colors: Navy, sand, moss, forest, shadow lavender, charcoal, monochrome, and clay, plus seven limited-edition shades

“The Tumi Alpha Worldwide is a monster suitcase, but it’s great for really long trips, when having two bags would be difficult,” Shirley says. “It’s definitely too large to be your only bag, though, so I only recommend it to frequent travelers.” Trust the expert when she says it’s a monster. This bag has a whopping 34-inch height and 22-inch depth, for monthlong vacations or an excessive packer. Of course, there are zippers aplenty for organization, zipper-to-zipper expansion capabilities, dual spinner wheels, a TSA-friendly lock, and even bumper rails and impact-resistant side panels for all the bumps, falls, and throws it might see along the way.

Shirley likes to use this one when hitting the slopes. “I use this bag when I go skiing, so I can bring all of my thick sweaters and ski clothes,” she says. “It has all the same features I love about my smaller checked bag.”

What reviewers are saying: “My wife tends to pack a lot of things, and our previous bag was a bit challenging for her to get everything in that she wanted to pack for trips. I decided to get this bag, since it was the largest Tumi bag I could find. Home run! She loves the bag, and she can pack away to her heart’s desire and still have room left over. She particularly likes the four-wheel design, which makes moving the bag through the airport easier. She also likes the locking zippers of this bag.”

Exterior dimensions: 13" x 22" x 34"

Weight: 18.6 pounds

Colors: Black

If you are looking for an under-$200 option, this Samsonite case is highly recommended by reviewers. This large, 30-inch bag sits atop four dual spinner wheels for easy maneuvering through airports, train stations, and taxi lines. Inside are two pockets (one zipped and one with compression straps) to organize all your personal belongs for a longer trek. A scratch-resistant, hard outer shell made from polycarbonate will keep this bag from looking worn from wear over time. A built-in lock along the zippered side will keep all your stuff secure, as well.

What reviewers are saying: “I used this for a 5 day / 4 night trip for two and it fit everything we needed. It’s the perfect sized checked bag. It’s sturdy and light. The bag is zippered on one side and has straps on the other. The wheels are easily maneuverable, the handle works as designed. The only con about this luggage is that I got black and it looks like every other bag on the conveyor belt but that’s not much to complain about. Great price too.”

Exterior dimensions: 30.4” x 20.9”x 12.4”

Weight: 10.8 pounds

Colors: Midnight black, arctic silver, Caribbean blue, lagoon blue, nova teal, rose gold, solid charcoal, purple

If you favor the look and convenience of a trunk-style suitcase, this one from Briggs & Riley checks all the boxes. Its large, 80/20 interior makes packing for long journeys a breeze. The three-layer, hard-side shell is scratch-resistant, and will withstand plenty of spins on conveyer belts and any sort of careless tosses at baggage claim. Free-spinning, metal ball-bearing, 360-degree wheels were designed to make long walks, either within your terminal or upon arrival at your destination, all the easier. Organization is easy with internal compression straps and a mesh divider. And finally, a built-in TSA lock will keep everything safe and secure. The best part? The brand offers a lifetime warranty and will repair the case free of charge.

What reviewers are saying: “3 years and counting. We have had this style luggage in the 22" and 26" too. This has taken 50-60 airport trips and is in excellent condition. At one point my husband used it for work supplies. It wiped out easily. I’m buying another size!”

Exterior dimensions: 30" x 16" x 15"

Weight: 10.4 pounds

Colors: Hunter, stealth

Instagram-friendly luggage brand Béis makes chic, travel options without a huge markup, but did you also know that actress Shay Mitchell is the founder? The celeb-approved brand has many of the amazing features you might be looking for—including a durable, hard-sided polycarbonate exterior shell, 360-degree wheels, a cushioned handle, and TSA locks—and one smart tech feature that sets it apart from the rest. A built-in weight-limit indicator ensures you never go over your airline’s restrictions, as a little red light will bring it to your attention when you’ve packed more than 50 pounds. Fidgeting with your at-home scale or having to unpack an overweight bag at the airport will never be a problem again.

What reviewers are saying: “This is all you need with this suitcase! This will fit everything plus some! The expanding zipper is VERY nice for you buy things on your trip and need that little bit of additional room. The locking zippers give that extra feeling of security while still allowing TSA to access anything if needed. I recommend this bag and the carry on size for the perfect set.”

Exterior dimensions: 31" x 18" x 11.5"

Weight: 12 pounds

Colors: Black, beige, teal

Getting the most out of your checked luggage includes considering the weight of the piece. Since we all know how cumbersome large suitcases can be and how many extra pounds they add to the scale, when it comes time to check it, consider this soft-shell option from Antler. Made from strong and durable polyester, this suitcase has four 360-degree spinner wheels, an expander zip, a zip-front pocket for grab-and-go, and two internal pockets for organizing all your belongings. A TSA-approved combination lock keeps things secure, while a lifetime warranty on every item makes it worth the investment.

What reviewers are saying: “Good large suitcase that expands. Very stable when packed and easy to maneuver. Also very light for size of case. Would definitely recommend.”

Exterior dimensions: 31.88" x 18.31" x 12.2"

Weight: 5.95 pounds

Colors: Navy, black, canopy green