The 19 best luggage brands worth your hard-earned £££
If you've ever experienced the struggle of bringing sub-par luggage through the airport, up several flights of Airbnb stairs, or across cobblestone streets, let me first just say that I see you. I've been there, and it's rough. Not all luggage is made equally — as much as our wallets might not want to believe it — and good pieces can make traveling sooo much more enjoyable. (Just think of the last time you had a busted suitcase wheel, and I think you'll agree.)
Alas, a life with crappy luggage is no life I want you to live, which is why we put together this list of the 19 best luggage brands, below. You'll find companies that make large suitcases, chic carry-ons, spacious weekender travel bags, and more that’ll fulfil all your holiday needs and actually hold up against not-so-gentle airport agents. *Insert upside-down smiley face emoji.*
So, how did we decide what made the list? We carefully combed through (what felt like) millions of suitcases, carry-ons, backpacks, duffle bags, and luggage sets on the internet, and chose the brands that meet Cosmo's high standards in several different categories. We're talking design (we like pretty things), interior space (we don't travel light), organisational features, warranty and durability, and the overall quality of things like zippers, wheels, handles, and pockets. Team Cosmo and the Reviewers of the Internet are obsessed with the 15 brands below, and I'm pretty confident you will be too!
Read on for the best luggage brands for every kind of traveler and every kind of budget. Then get bookin', babes!
SoundBox Cabin luggage
This cabin case is 55 x 40 x 20/23 cm in size and can be taken on board 38 different airlines. It's also available in 16 (!) different colours which means you never have to worry about getting your hand luggage mixed up with other people, and it's also super durable. With a three year warranty and a hard case, you'll likely never have to buy another hand luggage suitcase again.
THE REVIEWS: "American Tourister is my absolute go-to for luggage, thanks to the brand's hard-wearing designs and durability. Each suitcase has four spinner wheels (which is not always the case for hand-luggage) and a hard top, while the design of the suitcase also maximises how much you can pack. Plus, who wouldn't want their suitcase to come in pastel colours?"
£145.00 at americantourister.co.uk
Tripp Dove Grey Large Escape Suitcase
A 77cm x 51cm x 32cm, four-wheel spinner suitcase for £75? That really is a bargain. This suitcase is made from tough and durable polypropylene and is exceptionally lightweight, meaning you can use your weight allowance for all your holiday goodies (it has a capacity of 102 litres.)
Cabin and carry-on suitcases start at around £30, while the brand is also UK-based and has over 20 years experience in the luggage industry.
Lightest Large Suitcase in Antler Green - Soft Stripe
Overpacker? Prepare to meet your new best friend (in luggage-brand form): Antler. This cult-favourite company knows how to get you the most bang for your buck when it comes to space, promising to house clothes for a three-week trip with their large suitcases. Plus, each bag is fitted with a comfort-grip handle and 360 spinner wheels, to make the airport a doddle, as well as double-zip pockets and compression straps, which help you to fit absolutely everything you could want for your holiday. Winner!
THE REVIEWS: "This suitcase rolls on smooth and rough terrain without a problem (absolutely no flipping over here!) and really is big enough to fit everything in. We're talking: hats, tennis rackets (yes really), multiple outfit options and toiletry bags for two people. The suitcase is also super light, so you don't have to worry about maxing out your weight allowance, and also comes in loads of colours to make it easy to spot on the conveyor belt. Plus, there are matching small and medium luggage options too, so you can complete the full set."
Cabin Max Black Anode 40L Carry On Cabin Case
This cabin case truly does it all: it complies by the majority of airline size restrictions (this particular one is 55x40x20cm), has a 3-digit lock and combination zipper, as well as high-quality full 360 degrees, easy glide spinner wheels. It's also a hard shell, keeping all your belongings safe, and has a 35 litre capacity.
The suitcase is also available in 11 colours, if you want to mix and match and ensure your suitcases stand out from the rest. Plus, there's a built-in USB port, so you can keep all your tech charged as you go.
TRANVERZ S
This cabin size 2-wheel travel trolley has two main compartments, made from water-resistant polyester. The luggage straps and super lightweight design mean you have loads of room for your stuff, while the smooth-wheeling system means you're always ready to be on the go. It also fits the cabin-size for most airlines at 51 x 32.5 x 23 cm. Choose from three different colours - Peacock Green, Midnight Blue and Whale Gray.
Vienna Spinner Suitcase Luggage
Working with a tight budget, but not trying to sacrifice your taste? Got you, friend. Two words: Amazon Basics. The brand, which you can find on the Amazon website, obv, has loads of sleek, neutral options that won't break the bank. Peep this gorge leather-trimmed pick (that def looks designer), that is more affordable than other options.
THE REVIEWS: "I was not disappointed with this purchase. I was able to fit a week's worth of clothes, a towel, two swimsuits, and five pairs of footwear in it! (Yes, two sets were sandals.) I love the look of it and its durability. It came in perfect condition! Can't wait to go on my next holiday and use this!"
TUMI 4-Wheel Expandable Medium Suitcase, Hunter Green
If luggage royalty existed, Tumi would definitely be a part of that dynasty. Known for its luxe travel bags, the brand offers various types of luggage made from different types of sturdy materials, like aluminium, recycled polycarbonate (like this carry-on here), Tegris, and titanium, all of which you can trust to keep your belongings safe.
THE REVIEWS: "This is excellent quality! It's a perfect size and it's clearly made of very durable material. It looks more defined in person than in the photos!"
Aviator Carry-On hardshell suitcase
Looking for an eco-friendly bag? Paravel is where you should be shopping. Recycled bottles are used in many of its designs, and this suitcase — which is so chic and luxe looking! — is the world's first carbon-neutral carry-on.
THE REVIEWS: "Lightweight, easy to manoeuvre, and fits more clothes than expected. I couldn’t be happier with my choice and will travel more just as an excuse to use it."
£395.00 at net-a-porter.com.uk
Swissgear Sion Softside Luggage with Spinning Wheels
Swissgear has been at the forefront of the luggage game for a hot minute now (the company was founded in 1893, fyi!) and it continues to provide top-quality stuff. Its products are sturdy, yet lightweight, like this expandable carry-on, which costs under £100.
THE REVIEWS: "We needed new luggage for an upcoming trip to Greece and bought two of these as they complied with the size restrictions. We were able to pack 10 days of clothes and toiletries in these bags to avoid checking luggage for this trip. The wheels are great and the light-weight nature of the luggage made it easier to stow in the overhead compartment of the airplane."
Rigid Cabin Suitcase
Delsey is a classic French brand beloved by stylish travellers, who love that its suitcases include built-in chargers, three-dial TSA-approved combination locks, and lots of zippered compartments. The best part? Some of their check-in bags and carry-ons includes a shoe bag, laundry bag, and a removable hanger, so you know your travel outfits will be treated correctly.
THE REVIEWS: "Easy to manoeuvre and durable so far. Colour, style, and lock are just as pictured. I love the interior of this luggage! A mesh area on one side and two sections with zippers on the other. Mine came with two drawstring bags, cross straps on both sides, and a hanger. As an organised person, these little perks made my day as all my items stayed in place."
Carry On Essential polycarbonate cabin suitcase
If you're looking for luggage with a scratch-proof shell that won't get all dinged up in baggage claim, then let me introduce you to July. The Australia-based start-up turned mega suitcase brand has won over the hearts of travellers everywhere thanks to its chic, lightweight, and, of course, ultra-durable designs. The set you see here (because yes, you'll want a matching pair), comes in 12 different colours you'll struggle to choose between, if you're anything like me.
THE REVIEWS: "I was able to fit almost everything in [the carry-on] for a five-day trip, and I didn’t even try to pack well! There was even room to spare. It was silent even when rolling on a wooden walkway. So far, I'm in love. Glad I researched and got my bag from July."
Bondi Medium Suitcase
We struggle to describe suitcases as "pretty" but that's exactly the word that came to mind when we cast our eyes on the gorgeous pastel colourways of Nere Travel's new Bondi collection. Top of our wishlist is this gorgeous – not to mention trending – butter yellow hue. From a technical POV, dual spinner wheels mean wheeling this bad boy along is a breeze, no matter what size from the small, medium and large offering you plumped for. Each suitcase also comes with a recessed lock to keep your valuables safe as well as a detachable mesh wash bag.
THE REVIEWS: "I was super surprised at how lightweight these cases actually are, without compromising on valuable packing space. Spotting it on the baggage carousel is no biggie thanks to the cute colour options. I want them all! How many suitcases is too many suitcases? Asking for a friend..."
Hybrid Carry-On
Monos has quickly made a name for itself in the travel industry, and frankly, I get it. My carry-on has become the most-used suitcase in my closet (and as an editor, I've tried a lot). You can count on the pieces to last thanks to sturdy aluminium handles and a German Makrolon polycarbonate case. The pieces are also downright gorgeous??? (If you don't need a suitcase rn, def check out their other bags and accessories, too.)
THE REVIEWS: "The product looks as good as the photos and campaign film. I’ve inspected every inch of the product and can confidently say that the Hybrid is very well-engineered and constructed. The polycarbonate shell feels substantial enough to protect contents with a slight flex to absorb impact, and the handles feel very strong."
Essential Check-In Large Suitcase
"Oh, you fancy, huh?" —Everyone at the airport when they see you with a Rimowa bag. These babies are as expensive-looking and -feeling as they are, well, actually expensive. And most people think they're worth the price. For example, one Cosmo editor brought her Rimowa bag on a trip to Paris and has been obsessed with the super smooth wheels, "weirdly spacious flex-divider system," and priceless knowledge that she looked like a baller ever since.
THE REVIEWS: "Absolutely the best luggage! Light and durable. Couldn’t ask for more. Some old-schoolers may be afraid of zippers but they don’t know new materials. This is awesome luggage. Ours has survived planes, trains, automobiles, and ferries. Lots of space, easy to use, and gorgeous!"
Spinner XL Expandable Suitcase
Ahhh, a classic that even your mama knows and loves. Samsonite sells hard- and soft-shell spinners that are sure to go the distance, each with so many compartments, pockets, and compression systems that even the most type-A traveler will be left giddy with glee. And if you're looking for something sleek but still colourful, you've officially found your match — while this one is a classic black colour, they do loads of gorgeous more 'out there' options.
THE REVIEWS: "Took this on holiday a month ago. This thing has cavernous storage! I thought I’d have to squeeze everything for a two-week trip, but to my surprise, I had plenty of room. Held up perfectly. The wheels work great and spin freely. Zippers were smooth and never had an issue. I was worried about how it would do on the cobblestone streets in Rome, but it performed like a champ. Really happy with this purchase!"
The Large Check-In Roller in Atlas Pink
BÉIS luggage, founded by TV and fashion icon Shay Mitchell, is a triple threat: durable, practical, and chic. It offers smaller bags and accessories, but the suitcases are really where it's at. The waterproof zippered pockets ensure your oozing conditioner won't get on your clothes, and the interiors are huge, making both the carry-on and checked bag great picks for your next long trip.
THE REVIEWS: "Flawless! I am obsessed with this luggage. The zipper slot to slip the bag over the luggage handle makes loading and trekking through the airport so much easier. The interiors of all pieces are of great quality, and I love the small touches (pockets, laundry bags, etc.). Zippers are all sturdy and the locks are very easy to use. Plus, they're stylish and sleek! A++! "
Rains Hilo Weekend Bag, Green
If you're after something super durable (aka, waterproof, because our weather is so unpredictable), look no further than Rains. The brand offer everything from backpacks to weekend bags that can easily fit three days worth of stuff, and all come with secure fastenings so you don't have to worry about the conditions. Great for festivals, too!
THE REVIEWS: "OK, so you probably can't fit everything and the kitchen sink in one of these, but they are great for having on hand for any weekends away. We know the UK weather can be unreliable - and anything that involves camping means wheels are a no-no - this is a great choice."
Herschel Supply Co. Novel Duffle Bag, Black
This hip backpack company (you know, the one you always begged your mum to buy you at the end of summer?) makes more than just schoolbags, y'all! Herschel also offers cute but durable duffel bags and solid suitcases at not-too-shabby price points. The Novel Recycled Nylon duffel is a fan-favourite for quick trips thanks to the side shoe compartment, which keeps dirty kicks away from clean clothes, and its multiple sturdy straps, including a padded one for your shoulder.
THE REVIEWS: "My first Herschel purchase was a backpack that I still use…and I bought it 10 years ago. So when I got the itch to do some more shopping in anticipation of some car travel, I immediately looked to Herschel for something that would work well for my small weekend jaunts. I was hoping to find something portable but roomy, and I certainly was not disappointed. I love the shoe space, which is spacious enough for two pairs of shoes!"
3-Piece Set Suitcase
If you travel for lots of different reasons (work, weekends away, longer holidays...whatever), then you should consider getting a luggage set from Coolife. The fact that you can buy the brand on Amazon is so convenient, and the value for what you're getting is just unbeatable. Take this three-piece set, for example. You get three suitcases in three different sizes (perfect for lots of different excursions!), all for under £100.
THE REVIEWS: "My family travels internationally often, which means lots of airplane transfers, rail travel, and ferry loading and unloading. Each member has their own set of these, and only one cosmetic scuff has appeared....Very pleased with the manoeuvring and durability of the wheels on various rough surfaces. The retractable handle also makes for easy storage on ferries and railways."
You Might Also Like
