The best luggage brands of 2025, tried and tested by our editors
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There are literally thousands of suitcases, trunks and carry-on bags to choose from these days, but which are the best luggage brands of 2025? Kitting yourself out with a suitcase that really performs is a travel game-changer. This claim might seem like overkill, but until you’ve experienced the difference between your bog-standard wheel-along and something really best-in-class, it’s hard to comprehend the difference it can make. Gone are the days when your case flips over as you’re trundling along a bumpy street; no more nights before travel desperately trying to force the lid of your bag closed; chaotic packing? A thing of the past.
Our editors are the epitome of seasoned travellers, traversing the globe with a need for speed, simplicity and organisation. So, when a piece of luggage impresses us, you know it’s one you’ll love. In our minds, the best suitcase is one that looks great without compromising on robustness, that never lets us down and is easy to use.
We’ve learned the hard way that not all suitcases are made equal, so now you don’t have to. Instead, you can take your pick from this tried and tested selection of the best luggage brands of 2025.
The best luggage brands at a glance
- Best value luggage brands: Nere, Antler, Away and July
- Most stylish luggage brands: Horizn Studios, Carl Friedrik, Paravel
- Best luxury luggage brands: Rimowa, Tumi, Victorinox
How we tested the best luggage brands
Our editors Charley Ward and Lauren Burvill, have personally trialled a huge number of bags from a variety of luggage brands, and thoughtfully selected their favourites, based on function, innovation and style. Every piece of luggage we try gets a test-run through the office, before being passed on to other members of our team to take on their travels and test in a real-world scenario.
We don’t just test suitcases when considering the best luggage brands of 2025, we’ve had a go of everything, from kids scooter cases to enormous trunks, to underseat cabin bags and weekender duffels. We test multiple bags from every brand to get a feel for function and quality across the board, taking into account value for money, creative storage solutions, aesthetics and whether they can take the hit at baggage reclaim.
How do I choose a suitcase?
When choosing the perfect suitcase, it all comes down to your unique needs – and the restrictions of your chosen airline. If you struggle to carry heavy bags, wheels are a must. Going to carry-on only? Your suitcase will have to be the right weight and dimensions. Tend to overpack? Maybe what you need is a trunk, not a suitcase, that offers more space. There's a lot to consider, and you might need more than one style for different types of travel, too.
In general, we recommend looking for:
- Durable spinner wheels – especially for travel in the UK and Europe where there are cobblestone streets
- Internal storage pockets and compression features
- External pockets – for easy access to laptops and documents
- Expandable zips – for flexible storage
- TSA approved lock
- Texture of casing – whether it's prone to scuffs, dents and scratches
- Whether there’s a lifetime warranty, especially on pricier high-end cases
The winners of the Reader's Choice Awards 2024: best luggage brands
These are the best airlines in the world, according to the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards. The scores below are percentages representing overall average levels of satisfaction.
15. Horizn Studios. Score 85.56
14. Carl Friedrik. Score 86.26
13. Monos. Score 86.30
12. July. Score 87.22
11. Eastpak. Score 88.67
10. Bric’s. Score 89.17
9. Victorinox. Score 90.67
8. Globetrotter. Score 90.77
7. Delsey. Score 90.89
6. Briggs and Riley. Score 91.07
5. Away. Score 91.11
4. Tumi. Score 92.50
3. Antler. Score 93.33
2. Rimowa. Score 95.56
1. Samsonite. Score 98.33
For more luggage advice and recommendations, the following guides feature more top picks:
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The best luggage brands to know in 2025
Nere
We’re so grateful that Nere has moved out of Australia and made it all the way to the UK, because their luggage is on another level. With a huge range of vibrant colours and styles to choose from, this one is certainly fashion-forward and perfect for anyone who likes to stand out from the crowd (kind of handy on the carousel). Unsurprisingly, this brand has become a firm favourite with influencers, but there’s more to these suitcases than looks alone. The whisper-quiet dual spinner wheels make these a total breeze to pull along over any surface, while the scratch-resistant hard shell and TSA-approved locks make it (and your precious cargo) completely secure. Every bag comes with a 10-year warranty, and is available for what we feel is a very reasonable price.
Price range: from £119 for the cabin suitcases to £119 for the large check-in cases.
Our pick: the Stori 75cm suitcase
According to our editors: “Our Nere Bondi carry-on case didn’t feel as sturdy upon opening as some of the polycarbonate luggage we’ve tried, but the larger checked case didn’t feel like a compromise at all. As such, given the low price and 10-year warranty, this is a small gripe – they’ve impressed on several long trips, including a schlep to the Maldives and back. These cases have wheeled with good maneuverability every time we’ve travelled with them and the cheery look makes them easy to spot on the carousel. I also like that there’s matching accessories available and most cases come with an included wash bag – another boon given the low cost.” Charley Ward, commerce writer
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Horizn Studios
You’ll have seen this reliable German brand mentioned in many of our best bag roundups, and that’s because they really know how to make a great suitcase. Horizn Studios provides all-vegan material bags that come with a lifetime warranty. They’re eco-conscious, ensuring even their shipping is carbon neutral. We’ve been impressed by so many of their suitcases, including their new plant-based hard-shell product line, Circle One. If we had to choose one bag from their range, it would have to be the M5 – a partly recycled hardshell suitcase that just excels on every level. There’s enough space in this for you to pack for a week, it’s got a front laptop pocket, TSA locks and multiple zippered mesh compartments. Horizn luggage is built to last, so the price point offers great value for money, too.
Price range: from £360 for the cabin suitcases to £490 for the large check-in cases.
Our pick: their classic H5 cabin luggage and the H6 check-in.
According to our editors: “There’s nothing like battling through torrential rain and gale force winds to really test a suitcase, and that’s what I had to face with the Horizn Studios H6 on a recent work trip to Edinburgh. Impressively, this German-engineered suitcase took on Storm Éowyn like a champ, with the polycarbonate shell handling any knocks and bangs with ease, while the Japanese 360° spinner wheels made gliding through the station and hotel lobbies totally effortless. Edinburgh’s cobblestones were slightly more of a challenge to move across, but it stood up to the task nonetheless. Inside, the design is nothing short of masterful, with recycled mesh screens, water-resistant lining, and space for everything. I love how the case looks, too (the Glossy Purple Night colour is striking) and, despite being seriously tough, it’s lightweight and sustainably crafted with 99 per cent waste-free production. If you’re looking for the perfect balance of style, function and eco-conscious design, the H6 does this beautifully. And the lifetime warranty? Proof that not all good things come to an end." Preshita Saha, Director of Content, CNT Global Video
Carl Friedrik
Despite being fairly new on the luxury luggage scene compared to other heritage brands, Carl Friedrik is no doubt here to stay. Since the launch in 2012, this brand has skyrocketed to the top to sit alongside companies that have been producing trustworthy travel goods for generations. Best known for exceptional quality leather travel accessories and bags, their hardshell suitcase range is something a little bit different, but still in keeping with the outstanding design and function we’re used to.
Its polycarbonate luggage range is beautiful to look at, with a design that is a contemporary take on a classic style and featuring their signature leather trim. But there’s substance too! These cases are zip-free, instead closing with an incredibly sturdy aluminium lock frame. Although streamlined on the outside, there are numerous organisational pockets inside and 360 spinner wheels for an easy-glide action, whether running to your gate or searching for your hotel on cobbled back streets. Prefer a regular zip? Look to the brand's Core line instead. Each case comes with a lifetime guarantee and a 100-day trial period.
Price range: from £385 for the cabin suitcases to £565 for the large check-in cases.
Our pick: the Carry-on X is one of our favourite tried and tested carry-on suitcases.
According to our editors: “I travel regularly with the carry-on pro style, and love the way it looks and navigates. The organisational pockets are really well thought out and designed. What really sets the brand apart is the aluminium lock frame, which feels incredibly safe and secure – although it can be a little tricky to lock in place if the case is really full." Sophie Knight, visuals editor
“These are some of the most elegant cases on the market, and the build quality of the range feels just as lovely as the aesthetic. I have the new Core carry-on, which switches the brand’s usual clasp-style lock for a zip, which I prefer personally – it makes it much easier to close when it’s really full. The suitcase is easy to handle and the soft suede-like brushed finish inside is lovely too – I’ve never seen anything like it in any other piece of luggage. I have the cream option, which is lovely but prone to scuffs – go for a darker colour if you want to fully preserve the chicness for as long as possible.” Charley Ward, commerce writer.
Antler
Antler is nothing short of a British establishment – still based in London today and a household name since it was originally established in Lancashire by John Boultbee Brooks, in 1914. With fans around the world, and a fantastic selection of superior quality luggage, this one was always going to have a place on our best luggage of 2025 list. When testing, the bags didn’t let us down. As expected, each suitcase was of solid construction, elegantly designed and full of handy pockets and compartments. Our top pick is the best-selling, hard shell Icon Stripe suitcases, available in a range of colours and sizes. If you want to get even more out of the roomy interior, stock up on some Antler packing cubes, too.
According to our editors: “I have the Clifton luggage set in mineral and absolutely love it. The cute cabin case is the perfect bag to take on any weekend getaway. All of them are lightweight while still being sturdy and are a dream to whip around busy airports. Each case within the set sits neatly within the other, too, so it's very easy to store. ” Lauren Burvill, commerce editor
Price range: from £170 for the cabin bags, £240 for the large checked bags, sets of three start at £527.
Our pick: the Cabin with pocket is one of our top-rated carry-on luggage options. The useful exterior pocket for a laptop makes it a great choice for business travel. We've also reviewed the Antler overnight bag and think it makes a great under-seat carry-on bag when flying on easyJet.
July
There’s something really special about the luggage from July. Rather than sticking to the usual design, the core team pored over 4,000 reviews of other bags to find out where suitcases are failing and what people really want, before bringing their hard shell range into the world. As you might expect, this attention to detail and consumer needs has ended up in the creation of a suitcase line that ticks all the boxes, from reinforced construction to silent spinner wheels. Despite being extremely impact-resistant, these cases are lightweight and full of internal compartments. If you love personalising your luggage, this one has an unusual add-on – you can have a picture of your pet printed on the side!
Price range: From £195 for the smallest cabin suitcase to £295 for the largest check-in rolling case.
According to our editors: “My July carry-on is by far the lightest suitcase I’ve ever tried. Struggling to wrangle my case in and out of the aeroplane’s overhead compartments is now a thing of the past – much appreciated for long haul international travel and you’re running to catch your connection after minimal sleep. If you’re looking for a new lightweight carry-on, you won’t get better than this. But my favourite aspect is how quiet the wheels are in use, even over bumpy cobblestones. The good quality telescopic handle makes life easier when manoeuvring around busy airports, too.” Charley Ward, commerce writer.
According to our editors: “I have the Checked Plus case in shadow lavender, which makes it super easy to spot on the luggage carousel. The July Checked is very light and easy to travel with and the wheels are impressively smooth. As a bonus, this case unzips to provide a precious extra few litres of capacity, so overall you could probably squeeze in enough items for a three-week trip if you’re savvy. I used the internal pockets for toiletries and fragile items, and the compression system works well to keep everything securely in place, even without packing cubes.” Louis Delbarre, production assistant
Our pick: Their zippy Carry On Light, the world's lightest carry-on suitcase and our recommendation for best lightweight suitcase.
Monos
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If you love minimalist design, Monos is the luggage brand for you. Hailing from Vancouver, fashionistas have been raving about this range of premium luggage since its inception in 2019, and we’re joining them. We love the timeless design and high-quality manufacturing that produces suitcases to last. If you’re keen to keep your valuables intact on a long haul trip, the aerospace-grade polycarbonate shells from the Monos range will see you through, and the recycled materials used in its construction mean you’re doing your bit for the planet, too. Monos is also the first luggage brand to earn climate-neutral certification, meaning it’s achieved net zero carbon emissions as a company – clever stuff.
Price range: From £260 for the smallest carry-on case to £460 for a rolling trunk.
According to our editors: “I’ve had a couple of Monos suitcases, and I’ve always been impressed with the number of internal pockets – something I'm grateful for as a consummate over-packer. The brand’s large check-in case is no different, boasting more inner compartments than any other suitcase I’ve owned, giving me space for my laundry bag, wash bag, electricals and all the just-in-case bits and bobs I please. The compression system and dividers help squeeze everything in neatly. The textured casing is lovely, but it does get marked rather easily. However, it’s nothing a brief wipe down with a damp cloth can’t sort.” Charley Ward, commerce writer.
Our pick: The Check In Large.
American Tourister
You may already be familiar with Samsonite, but did you know that this brand also owns American Tourister? If you’re looking for a piece of luggage that’s lightweight, budget-friendly and works as a carry-on, the Holiday Heat Spinner is one well worth considering. Not only is this bag equipped with 360 spinner wheels and a TSA-approved lock, but it also comes in a wide variety of bright colours, and even has some Marvel designs available for the kids. You can buy this range on Amazon, for quick delivery, and many of its popular styles fit within budget airline allocations.
Price range: from £139 for the cabin suitcases to £185 for the large check-in cases.
Our pick: the holiday heat spinner hand luggage.
Samsonite
Samsonite have released a new eco range that we really rate. As the name (S’cure) suggests, these bags are hardy and lockable, so you won’t have to worry about any knocks and bags as you travel the world. But this robustness doesn’t come at the expense of our planet, as these models are made out of recycled post-industrial and post-consumer waste. We particularly love the unique design touch that comes from the use of recycled wood waste, which gives a one-of-a-kind look to the handle and logo badge on the front. There are seven colours to choose from as well, including bright shades of red, yellow and blue, so they're very easy to spot in a crowded airport.
Price range: from £97 for the cabin suitcases to £425 for the large check-in cases.
Our pick: the Samsonite S'Cure Eco.
Away
Go bold or go home! The iconic Away luggage range is famed for its gorgeous colour selection, showcasing everything from Sorbet Orange to Splash Blue, and we are very much here for it. In 2015, founders Jen Rubio and Stephanie Korey launched this start-up in New York with a view to change the travel game, with stand-out luggage that has taken everything you need into account. All of the hardshell polycarbonate cases (available in a range of sizes) are lightweight and durable, with quick-release trolley handles, 360 spinner wheels and an interior compression system. Some even come with in-built chargers. No matter whether you choose their carry-on, check-in, or weekender bag, you’ll love this luggage brand as much as we do.
According to our editors: “It was easy to pack, with plenty of storage options, compression straps and an expandable zip. It was a dream to navigate through a busy airport thanks to its spinner wheels and sturdy frame. I’m such a convert that I’m considering investing in the matching carry-on size and packing cubes for my next trip home." Abigail Malbon, who moved to another country using the Away Large Flex suitcase
“I’ve used Away suitcases for years and despite the fact I was initially drawn to the design and the colour options, it’s actually the hard shell, light weight and genuinely smooth-sailing wheelie functionality that I love the most. The medium is plenty big enough for a long haul trip, in my opinion (anything bigger and I’d end up over-packing), but the larger carry-on is the perfect weekend option, especially if travelling by train or Eurostar. Two equally sized interior compartments make arranging packing cubes easy, and the optional full-sized middle sleeve works well for valuables or anything you want to be able to grab easily, like an adaptor, or spare sunglasses.” Sarah Bannerman, acting commerce editor
Price range: from £245 for the cabin bags, £665 for the large aluminium checked luggage, the cabin and the medium set together is £510.
Our pick: The Medium Flex.
Aer
Sling bags, duffel bags, laptop bags, backpacks… this San Francisco luggage brand has it all. Since its conception in 2014, following a successful crowdfunding campaign for its combination gym/office bag, Aer has transformed into a luggage brand that really deserves recognition. For flights, we recommend the new carry-on suitcase, which wowed everyone in the Traveller office with its innovative tech. As well as whisper-quiet Hinotomo wheels and a compression system (complete with magnetic fasteners) designed to help you fit as much as possible into the restricted space allowed for cabin bags, this suitcase comes with a hidden smart tracker pocket, too. The lifetime warranty is just the cherry on the cake.
Price range: From £99 for a backpack to £319 for the carry-on case
Our pick: The carry-on suitcase
According to our editors: Anyone who knows me will tell you that I'm not a 'dainty' traveller; I've been known to throw my long-suffering suitcase around like a ball on a string. In fact, I've had more suitcase breakups and breakages than boyfriends, but thanks to the Aer carry-on, I'm settling down for good. The wheels are some of the smoothest I've ever had the pleasure of wheeling, the handle has four stopping points, making it easy and comfortable to move around, and I love the minimalist, smoothed-out shell. Though it's not immune to scratches (none of us are), it's certainly able to carry on regardless. Anya Meyerowitz, contributor
Paravel
If eco-credentials are high on your list when choosing which brand to buy from, Paravel needs to be on your radar. Their Aviator Grand is the world's first carbon-neutral suitcase, an accolade achieved not only by making the case from recycled materials (primarily sourced from discarded water tanks), but also by offsetting all carbon emissions generated during sourcing, production, assembly, shipping and even your first trip with the bag. The suitcase itself is strong, built to a very high standard, and is so roomy you can pack enough for a 10-day trip. As well as having a spacious main compartment, there are also internal organisation pouches made from recycled plastic bottles, a compression board and 360 carbon steel bearing spinner wheels for an easy ride. In our opinion, this is one of the most stylish check-in cases at this price point, available in five different colours and featuring smart recycled vegan leather accents. See our full Paravel luggage review.
Price range: from £435 for the cabin suitcases to £525 for the large check-in cases.
According to our editors: “I took the Aviator Grand case travelling with me for a two-week trip around Asia on four different flights, so it’s been really put through its paces. As it was being passed around a lot, I appreciated the lock on top of the case, and it was the perfect size for a 14-day trip. I used the built-in pockets for items such as underwear and swimwear, so the main compartment was free for bulkier items. But the main thing I love about this case is how it looks – it’s gorgeous with its cream and tan leather finis,h and the interiors are a lovely contrasting blue, which I wasn’t initially expecting upon opening.” Sophie Knight, senior visuals editor
Our pick: The Carry-on Plus vegan leather trimmed hardshell suitcase and the Aviator Grand.
Rimowa
Rimowa is a German designer brand that is offering a new era of suitcase design, with high functionality at its core. Their range consists of some of the slickest suitcases on the market, and we particularly love their Essential Cabin Bag – a hardshell case, made out of high-performance polycarbonate, with a patented compression system unlike anything we’ve seen elsewhere. Other cases are available in aluminium, if that’s your preference, but for us, the Essential Cabin Bag is perfect for frequent flyers who like to travel light. The dual organisation interior allows as much space as could possibly be mustered for a carry-on, while the ball bearing wheels and cushioned axis make it a dream to travel with.
Price range: from £465 for the cabin suitcases to £1,340 for the large check-in cases.
Our pick: the Essential cabin bag.
Victorinox
Makers of the iconic Swiss Army Knife have taken all that ingenuity and put it into suitcase form! The Victorinox cases are full of secret gadgets and fold-out compartments, including a removable multitool (cabin-friendly!) and USB charger (battery pack sold separately). To give you the most packing room possible, the Lexicon case boasts ‘super recessed spinner wheels’ and a neatly tucked away handle, so you won’t have any bits sticking out, making it tricky to place in the overhead locker. As well as the standard compression fittings and zipped pockets inside, the Lexicon also has a waterproof compartment and a fold-out shirt hanger that can be removed and hung up when you arrive at your destination. All Victorinox luggage is covered by a warranty that lasts up to eleven years. If you travel often and don't pack light, this one is worth the investment.
Our pick: the Lexicon hardside.
Tumi
Not all high-end suitcases are hard shell, as demonstrated by American luggage brand, Tumi. Since their launch in 1975, Tumi has gained global notoriety for its collection of soft ballistic nylon travel bags that we think are some of the best pieces of soft-sided luggage on the market today. They look simple, but are actually steaming ahead in innovative and sustainable design. The lightweight, Slim Super Leger is on bag we really rate – this one has a USB port for your handheld devices, multiple internal and external pockets and a free monogramming service. Every piece of luggage they make goes through a thorough testing process (sometimes up to 30 unique tests), to ensure they meet extremely high standards. For those all-important eco-credentials, this brand uses recycled materials to make their cases, and offers a global repair network programme. Although we love the soft case, Tumi is best known for its signature aluminium cases, as well as its limited-edition collaborations, including with supercar maker McLaren.
Price range: from £540 for the cabin suitcases to £1,580 for the largest aluminium rolling case.
Our pick: International Slim Super Léger Carry-On.
Bric's
Think Lake Como, think luxury. It’s a beautiful part of the world, and as it just so happens, Bric’s produces luggage out there that radiates that same elegance. Crafting bags since the 1950s, decades of dedication to creating products that elevate your lifestyle and travel experience has paid off. Now the Italian brand has brought out a vintage-style travel trunk we couldn’t be more impressed by the result. The Bellagio case is in a league of its very own, with a frankly stunning retro design and all the mod cons you could wish for. It’s got a USB port, a front compartment, zipped interior pockets and four 360-degree spinner wheels for a really stable pull-along action. We can’t fault it!
Price range: from £465.
Our pick: the four-wheel cabin suitcase.
BÉIS
Ever worry that your luggage might exceed the weight limit, even if you’re within size restrictions? Well, if you don’t make a purchase from our list of best luggage scales, you’ll be delighted to read that this is just one example of attention to detail that cult label, BÉIS, has put into their designs. A built-in weight limit indicator in the 26” check-in suitcase will keep you right, but if you do go over, you’ve only your overpacking to blame because we’re also awarding this the prestigious title of best lightweight luggage. Weighing in at just 4.2kg for a full-sized case is something we think is worth celebrating. Aside from their check in cases, we also love this brand’s Weekender bag (which you can colour match with the check in suitcase to be super chic), which looks like a very stylish oversized handbag, but has some fancy extras like a hidden shoe compartment at the bottom and a back pocket that can be transformed into a trolley sleeve. Smart!
Price range: from £223 for the cabin suitcases to £335 for the large check-in cases.
Our pick: the carry-on roller with the matching weekender bag.
According to our editors: “I’ve used my BÉIS weekender bag on multiple trips away and I’m continually surprised by just how much I can squeeze in every time. The zipped compartment at the bottom is a game-changer for storing shoes or makeup bags away from your clothes, to prevent any mishaps in transit. I took three pairs of shoes, plus three outfits and a spare handbag, along with all other bits and pieces, on a recent trip to Paris, all inside this one bag. I love how chic it is too, and appreciate that there are plenty of matching items in the range.” Charley Ward, commerce writer
Louis Vuitton
Can you ever really beat Louis Vuitton for ultimate luxury and timeless style? No, not really. So, we had to put them on our list of best luggage brands of 2025. There’s no way around it, these suitcases come with wheels, ultra-light canvas, leather trims and eye-watering price tags, but that’s to be expected. In return, you’ll receive an exquisitely crafted heirloom case, be it a super-sized travel trunk, a rolling suitcase or a holdall bag. This is an investment for life – and probably lives beyond your life. Buy it today, and your great-grandchild will thank you.
Price range: from £2,200.
Our pick: the classic Horizon 50 MY LV Heritage case.
Briggs & Riley
When you buy luggage from Briggs & Riley you may balk at the price, but you’re buying for life. Literally - this brand offers an extremely generous lifetime guarantee, with a promise to not only replace but to repair damaged bags free of charge, for any reason, at any time. And don’t worry if you haven’t kept your receipt for a decade, no proof of purchase is required. We love that level of care, and as an extra bit of kindness being put out into the world, NHS staff can save 15% on buys in the UK, too.
Price range: From £179 for duffel bags to £869 for its formalwear case
Our pick: The large expandable spinner
According to our editors: "I’ve been using a rickety hand-me-down suitcase from my parents for my whole life and, as a travel journalist who is nearly 30, it’s not the chicest look. This Briggs & Riley suitcase ticks all of the right boxes. It has a durable, water-resistant hard shell and looks sleek and contained in spite of the undoubtedly overloaded contents. I like the in-built expansion and compression system, which increases packing capacity by a very handy 17 per cent, and the three inner compartments are perfect for splitting up clothing – a must for a packing cube obsessive like me. The TSA-approved lock reassures me that my belongings are secure in the hold, as well," Olivia Morelli, senior writer
Steamline
There’s a place for futuristic-style luggage, and standard designs are fine too. Let’s face it, a lot of great luggage looks pretty similar. But not Steamline luggage. If you’re into vintage classic style (who isn’t?) you will swoon at the sight of these luggage sets, particularly our favourites, the Editor Carry-on in brown and the Entrepreneur Spinner case. We’re not going to mince our words here: Steamline produces the luggage of dreams. We've even spotted Margot Robbie using these cases, not least during a Vogue cover shoot. These cases are glorious, from their natural linen finish and bold, brushed gold buckles, to the artist-made illustrative linings and leather trim. You could be fooled into thinking this was a perfectly preserved trunk from the 1920s, until you see the TSA locks, silent glide wheels and the clever, detachable organiser compartments.
Price range: From around £200 for a crossbody (great for use as your personal item) to around £500 for a check-in case
Our pick: The Editor Carry-on in brown and the Entrepreneur Spinner case
According to our editors: “The biggest selling point is definitely the way this case looks – it’s really cute and I’ve not seen any other luggage like it. It’s not the biggest carry-on I’ve used, however. I’d say it’s best for two-night trips maximum. I tend to prefer four-wheelers, whereas this only has two wheels. Nonetheless, the leather straps are strong and it does look great – earning compliments from my fellow travellers when I took it away. If you’re looking for a bigger carry-on that’ll replace a checked bag, this isn’t the one – but if you want the most stylish case in the airport, this is the one to beat.” Abigail Malbon, global audience development manager
"This is lovely inside and out. From the shiny gold clasps that snap open to the white leather trims to the striped inner that’s unveiled inside, this case is unlike any other I’ve used. It has a trunk-style opening, which you may or may not like, but I find that it makes it easier to pack in as many clothes as possible. Plus, when the case is not in use, it can be used as a blanket box in my living room. On the plus side, this case has four spinner wheels, unlike the brand’s carry-ons, which makes it easier to manoeuvre although it’s still a little heavier than its polycarbonate competitors. The extras are thoughtful and considered, comprising a hanging organiser with a door hook, a cool striped cover to protect the outer from scuffs in the hold (most brands make you pay additionally for this) and a little jewellery pouch. If you’re looking for a stylish case that’ll stand out on the carousel, this is the one to buy. Charley Ward, commerce writer, on the Steamline Entrepreneur spinner
Are hard or soft suitcases better?
If you’re treating yourself to new luggage in 2025, the best choice always comes down to your unique needs. But of course, the first thing to consider is whether it is for checked-in luggage or carry-on.
For check-in suitcases: If you’re checking your bag in, it’s a good idea to choose a hard shell suitcase or trunk. Although we do recognise these are usually the more expensive option, it’s the best way to ensure your bag and belongings aren’t damaged during travel. As an added bonus, they’re often easier to clean than soft-sided luggage.
For carry-on suitcases: For maximum packing space, choose a soft-sided suitcase. While rigid hard shell luggage options can be very roomy, if you’re trying to stick within size restrictions, you tend to be able to fit more into soft carry-on bags. Equally, if you're travelling with just an under-seat cabin bag, a soft weekender or backpack is a better option. A hard side case designed to be a cabin bag can work if you’re planning on placing it in the overhead locker once on board your flight. If you’re making an investment, hard-shell carry-on cases are the better choice as they are more robust and hardwearing. We love hard shell cases that come with an external pocket, like the best-selling Icon Stripe cabin case with pocket, so you can use it as your sole travel bag if needed.
What size suitcase do I need for my trip?
Again, the size of the bag you need depends on a multitude of personal factors – how long are you travelling for? What sort of clothes are you packing? How many pairs of shoes will you need? And so on. Fortunately, if you’ve found a bag you love on this list, most luggage brands offer suitcases in carry-on, medium and large sizes. So, you can take your pick (or buy one of each!). If you’re checking your luggage in and know you need as much packing room as possible, trunk-style and extra-large suitcases are the best way to go.
For most travellers, unless you’re in the habit of setting off on month-long jaunts, a set of three – carry-on, medium and large – should be all you need for the majority of trips. Most brands’ offerings slot inside each other for neat storage. Remember you have an under-seat bag allowance, too, for all your in-flight necessities.
For trips of up to three days, you shouldn’t need more than a carry-on suitcase, especially if you’ve chosen one with nifty storage solutions. See our full guide to the best carry-on luggage for more recommendations.
For holidays of up to a week, look for a medium suitcase with a capacity of 50 to 120 litres. This size will strike a balance between being large enough to house all you need without being unnecessarily unwieldy or heavy. The exception would be if you’re bringing a lot of specialist kit, such as diving or ski gear or bulky cameras, for example. In those instances, switch out your regular checked bag for a larger suitcase.
Two week-plus getaways will require a large check-in case, especially if you’re partial to bringing back souvenirs. Large suitcases and trunks can have a capacity of around 55 to 140 litres, which should give you plenty of room., Packing cubes, or even vacuum bags, are game-changers for maximising the space you have. Our editor, Charley Ward, travelled to Iceland for three months during winter, calling for lots of bulky jumpers and coats, but using vacuum bags meant she only needed one bag! Use smart packing hacks like this, and you’ll be surprised at what you can get packed into just one suitcase.
Is it a good idea to lock your checked luggage?
Once you let your bag go, you’re putting all your faith into hoping nothing will happen to it. So, having your belongings secured in a case fastened with a TSA-approved lock will give you that extra peace of mind. Every single one of our top picks in our best luggage guide has TSA-approved locks, which ensure that security can open your case without damaging it should it be necessary. Choosing a case with a built-in TSA lock means you don't need an additional bulky padlock either, so your suitcase remains looking chic and as lightweight as possible.
How much should I spend on check-in luggage?
This will depend entirely on your own budget and tastes. However, we’ve found that the best luggage brands’ prices tend to start from around £200 for cabin cases, £300 for medium and £400 upwards for large suitcases. You can make savings by buying a luggage set – Antler offers a 15 per cent discount on sets, and you can save up to £80 in July and £150 in Monos when you buy three, for example. We’ve also found some brands that offer great-value luggage options – Nere has medium check-in cases for under £150, as does American Tourister.