Best Checked Luggage in 2024

There’s nothing quite like getting your checked bag back, seeing it whirl around the belt to then notice that a wheel is missing or there’s a giant scratch. Checked bags go through a beating, despite slapping a few fragile stickers on it, so having some sturdy luggage is important, especially if you’re a frequent traveler. As a travel journalist, I’ve gone through a few checked bags in my day, and with the help of others’ suggestions and reviews, I’ve compiled a list of some of the best checked bags.

Our picks for the best checked luggage

How we selected the best checked luggage

When it comes to selecting the bags, a number of things were taken into consideration. I’m a travel journalist and have gone through a number of checked bags and carry-ons, so I feel like I can provide a certain level of input on a professional level. In addition to my personal opinion, I looked at positively reviewed items on Amazon and scoured the internet for good products with positive ratings.

What to consider when choosing checked luggage

Size

When you’re choosing luggage, bigger doesn’t always mean better. It’s important to think about what kind of trips you take, and that you’re going to be the one lugging this around. If you tend to hotel jump, use public transportation, or hop on buses, trains, etc., you might want something more manageable and not necessarily the biggest suitcase you can find. Choose a bag that gives you plenty of room, while still being manageable, comfortable to walk with, and easy to lift.

Flexibility and stretch

We’ve all been there when you buy one too many souvenirs. I traveled to a few of the European Christmas Markets during the holidays and came back with everything from bottles of wine and ornaments, to Christmas gifts for loved ones, so at times your bag will be a little overstuffed. Some flexibility, stretch, and expandable zippers are a really nice feature if your bag is a bit more full than expected and you don’t want to crush anything.

Wheels

There’s a huge difference between four wheels and two wheels. The 360-degree, four-wheel bags are easier to navigate through the airport, in my opinion.

Organization

This isn’t necessarily the most important feature. You can always get toiletry bags, makeup bags, packing cubes, and your own separate organization, but you’ll want some built-in pockets to be able to separate important items.

What is the difference between hard-sided and soft-sided luggage?

When choosing between hard-sided and soft-sided luggage, it’s really a matter of preference. I tend to lean more towards hard-sided luggage, but I do have a few bags that are soft-sided. Soft-side bags are generally lighter, so you can subtract that from the weight and fill your bag with more items that you need. Personally, I feel like the hard shell bags protect my items from breaking a little better than the soft bags.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the best type of suitcase for traveling?

This is a matter of personal preference. I would say as a brand, Samsonite has a really great reputation for a reason. Even if you don’t get the exact bag suggested, the brand is reliable in the travel industry. You can read more in our guides on luggage brands and places to buy luggage.

Is soft or hard luggage better?

Also a matter of personal preference. If you tend to overpack, or generally like to bring back things like bottles of wine or collect fragile souvenirs like ornaments, hardside luggage might be best for you just to add another layer of protection, and to avoid stretching and overpacking. If you’re looking to fit the most items in your bag and have the bag be a lower weight to begin with, soft bags are a great option.

What to avoid when buying luggage?

I have to admit, I’m guilty of this. I love the color black, so I tend to get fun luggage tags and choose black bags that have a little bit of a feature. My current Samsonite hardshell bag has two brown stripes, so it’s easier to pick out with my luggage tags, but generally, it’s a good rule of thumb to avoid black luggage. If you can choose a color that sparks your interest, that’s always best because it’s easier to spot on the luggage belt.

What is the best size suitcase for international travel?

It depends on the type of trip. For an expedition trip where you need a lot of equipment, boots, maybe even coats, you might need a bigger bag to fit everything. If you’re going on an international trip to country hop, using trains, buses, cars, etc., a smaller, more manageable bag might be worth it. It really depends on the trip.