Best Luggage Sets Of 2025: By A Posh Nomad
- Or Shalom
- Jun 14
- 31 min read
Updated: Nov 11
These premium luggage sets combine luxury design with real-world functionality. Each one was tested for quality, space and ease of use.
Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing.
1. Samsonite [Omni PC] - Backed by a ten-year warranty
My last carry on was part of my life for what felt like ages. That suitcase came everywhere with me, through snow and puddles, dragged along cobblestones in Berlin, and always packed to the brim. Honestly, it saw more miles than I could ever count. I kept using it, even when it started looking tired, because I just couldn’t let go. It took my most recent trip for me to finally admit it was finished. The handle ripped clean off and the lining inside tore a small hole, almost like my suitcase was telling me to let it go.
THE SEARCH:
At first, I didn’t want to spend real money on a replacement. With student loans still hanging over my head, I figured I could make do with something cheap. I scrolled through a bunch of those thirty or forty dollar options and at first, some looked pretty decent. Then I started reading reviews and noticed a trend. People kept mentioning broken handles, stuck wheels, or the whole thing falling apart after one flight. That was enough to make me pause. I decided to check out a few models in person at a store. That was eye-opening. They felt so flimsy, I honestly doubted they would survive even one international flight. That made me rethink the idea of just going with the cheapest option, so I walked out empty handed.
Fast forward to Tuesday, my flight was Friday morning, and I still had not bought a new suitcase. I even pulled out my battered old carry on and actually considered using it for one last trip. I had a little moment standing there, suitcase in hand, but it was clear the poor thing was ready to retire. That night, I went back online. I found this new suitcase that seemed to hit the sweet spot. It was not exactly cheap, but not expensive either. The color was perfect, reviews were reassuring, and it looked strong in the photos. The clock was ticking, so I took a chance and placed the order.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS:
The suitcase arrived just in time for my flight. My roommate carried the box upstairs and pointed out how light it was. For a second, I wondered if that meant it would be flimsy, but as soon as I opened it, I felt relieved. It felt sturdy, not at all like the cheap ones I had seen in the store. The handle was long and slid out easily. Nothing rattled, which was a nice surprise. The wheels rolled smoothly around the living room and seemed high quality. The shell looked tough and scratch resistant. I checked the zipper and it seemed strong. I liked that there was even a lock included. Packing was easy and it fit more than I expected. The fact that it is expandable really helps for those times when you end up with a few too many souvenirs.
REAL WORLD TEST:
So here is how it held up. I took it on four flights during the holidays. Twice, the plane was full, so I had to check it. After all that, there were no scratches, no dents, nothing was loose, and the wheels still worked perfectly. The handle felt just as solid as when I first got it, and the whole suitcase made travel so much easier.
COUSIN’S EXPERIENCE:
My cousin in Nashville picked up the three piece set right before a big trip. She wanted something that looked good, would last, and wouldn’t blow the budget. These fit the bill for her. She told me she considered cheaper options, but realized that if you actually travel often, you need luggage that holds up. She also mentioned this brand came up a lot in travel recommendations and people online seemed to trust it for the long haul. She said she saw some people online talk about possible quality control issues, but her set arrived in great shape. She packed her checked bag really full, even a little over the weight limit, and it held up with no trouble. She admits she sometimes picked it up by the handle when she probably shouldn’t have, but it never felt like it would break. The wheels stayed smooth, even on hotel carpets, and the handle worked every time. There are a few extra pockets inside for smaller things like charging cables, AirTags, or other odds and ends. She told me she spent way too long comparing all the different models, but ended up happy with her choice. If you are the type who gets stuck deciding, sometimes it helps to just go for it and move on. She is glad she did. – Daniel Reyes
Buy it on Amazon today for: $269.00 with FREE returns
2. DELSEY Paris - Dual compartments fully lined to keep clothes wrinkle-free
I feel like I’ve been on a suitcase shopping marathon. Honestly, this is my third try in a row. I sent two others back to Amazon, and two more went back to Marshalls, and at that point I was starting to think maybe I’d just never find a suitcase that actually works. For a while I stuck with my two large soft-sided bags. That was a mistake. As soon as I loaded them up, they turned into these awkward, lopsided things that were almost impossible to push down a hotel hallway, especially with that thick carpet that seems to go on forever. Both were from Samsonite, and they did their job for a couple of years, but I think the airlines beat up the wheels pretty badly.
This time, I figured it was worth a shot to try something totally different. I went for a hard shell and picked a larger size. I had been happy with my twenty-one inch Delsey Chatelet, so I decided to go for a bigger one from the same line, even though I really hesitated about the price. Spending more on luggage felt a little wild, but honestly, if it means my suitcase actually glides through the airport and from the car to the hotel without giving me a workout, then maybe it’s worth it.
I had also never owned a trunk style suitcase before. The first time I unpacked it, I realized just how perfect that design is for travel. It’s a lot narrower than my other suitcases of this size. I finally understood why this matters. It’s usually the width that makes a bag hard to fit in the trunk of a rental or in the back seat. The narrow shape means I can squeeze it in without having to stand it up, which is always too tall, or block the rearview mirror. I can’t believe I didn’t think of that before. Another thing I love about this bag is how the zipper is set up. The bottom is about two thirds of the bag, the top is the other third, and that layout just works better for how I pack. Both sides zip closed, so when I open the suitcase, nothing goes flying. If you’re not too picky about colors, I noticed that some colors are way cheaper than others. I grabbed this one in brown, but the smaller one I got in ivory.
I really can’t say enough about how smooth the wheels are. It rolls forward, backward, turns easily, and just feels effortless. Every part of it seems well made. I’m excited to see how it does after my next trip, and I’ll come back to update this once I’ve put it through the real travel test.
A friend from my book club, Gina Cowan, spent ages debating between the traditional medium and the trunk medium. She finally went with the trunk, and the first thing she told me was how much bigger it looked in person, which turned out to be exactly what she wanted. One side is deep, about eighty percent of the storage space, while the other side is shallower. Both zip all the way closed, so you never open your bag and have things spilling everywhere. She was also impressed by the exterior zipper, which is strong and has a double zipper setup she had never seen before. That gave her a lot of peace of mind since she always worries about bag zippers busting open mid-trip. For size comparison, she set her trunk next to a Samsonite large and noticed this one is a little shorter and quite a bit narrower, but much thicker from front to back. So you end up with a bag that isn’t as wide, but is deeper, which is perfect for storage and moving around tight spaces. She really likes the old school, classic vibe of this suitcase. Her favorite part is finally being able to use the luggage stands in hotel rooms, which never fit her old bags. She got the matching backpack too, which nests on the handle, though she mentioned it doesn’t leave a lot of handle space, but it’s not a big deal for her. Plus, it’s super easy to spot on the baggage carousel.
Another friend from book club, Rebeca Ayers, took the twenty-eight inch version on a multi-city trip through Europe and checked it for the first time ever. She usually only travels with carry ons, mostly because she doesn’t love waiting at baggage claim or dealing with airline fees. Picking a light color probably sounded crazy, but she wanted something easy to spot and a bit stylish, and it definitely stood out from all the black and blue bags. It’s not just for looks, though. The suitcase held up perfectly through rough cobblestone streets, uneven sidewalks, and even unpaved spots. She packed for nearly a month, and with packing cubes, it held everything she needed. The laundry bag inside was a little small, so she used it for shoes instead, which kept the rest of her clothes clean. After all those flights and transfers, there were just a couple of little scuff marks and no real damage. She felt like it was totally worth the investment.
My cousin Tina tried out the twenty-six inch trunk and immediately noticed how deep and roomy it is. The trunk style made packing for her December trip a breeze. She loved the narrow, tall design, and the inside lining is really pretty but feels tough too. The suitcase came with two storage bags that match the coral lining, plus there’s a hidden pocket that fits an AirTag. Each compartment inside zips up so nothing shifts around, and there are large, flat pockets on both sides for extra storage. She was surprised by how gently it rolls and spins. It looks classy and stands out, and she’s even thinking about getting a cover for it, just to keep it extra nice during flights. For her next cruise, she’s planning to drive to the port and bring only this suitcase. She can’t wait to fill it up.
MOTHER IN LAW’S EXPERIENCE:
I had to include my mother in law’s opinion because if anyone is honest, it’s her. She told me this suitcase glides so smoothly, and she barely has to push it. The balance is perfect, and it feels solid and well made. She picked up the carry on to replace her old one, and she is usually the first to say she doesn’t like spending money on luggage. But after using this, she’s now ordering the larger checked version. The thing she noticed most was all the little design touches - great colors, a charging port, ergonomic trolley, easy pull handle, and the inside lining is made with this special coating to keep out odors and bacteria. For her, it made traveling less stressful and a lot more enjoyable. – Lucas Bennett
Buy it on Amazon today for: $382.87 with FREE returns
3. Travelpro - Effortless mobility
I always thought I’d be a Samsonite owner for life. This time, though, I decided to try something new and went with the Travelpro Elite twenty inch hard shell, the one with the built-in laptop slot. After using it on three plane trips and a couple of work conferences, I’ve got a pretty solid impression. The good stuff jumps out first. The body is sturdy, the four wheels make it easy to glide through airports and hotels, and the suitcase can expand a little if you need extra space. I found it fits perfectly in the overhead bin and never causes trouble at check-in, no matter the airline or the mood of the gate agent. For a few days away, or even a week if you can do a load of laundry, this one really does the trick. Pair it with a Travelpro duffel and you’re set.
But I have to be honest about the downside. After seven months, the zipper pull for the expansion section broke clean off when I tried to open it. That’s when I noticed it was made out of a fake leather material that just doesn’t cut it, especially for luggage at this price. My Samsonite bags always had strong metal pulls, which held up so much better. For a zipper that gets a lot of tugging and pulling, using something flimsy doesn’t make sense. I also realized that the inside compartment zippers used the same material. Those pulls are just waiting to break the more you pack. I actually had to order replacement metal pulls with carabiners. On a suitcase in this price range, that’s a letdown. Travelpro, you really could have done better here. That’s the main reason I knocked off two stars for durability. Besides that, it’s a sharp-looking bag and handles travel well, but I’m still pretty frustrated with the zipper pulls.
MY SISTER’S EXPERIENCE:
My sister decided to treat herself to this same suitcase. The first time she needed to travel, the handle came off right away. She unpacked the whole thing and looked under the liner, only to find out there were never any screws in the handle to begin with. Not even a loose one rolling around inside, just nothing at all. She tried calling the toll-free number, but it sent her straight to the website. The parts list link didn’t work and her form kept getting erased before she could submit it. The website promised great customer service, but actually reaching someone felt impossible, and with another trip coming up, she was not happy. To be fair, she liked the luggage overall, especially the way it rolled, but wanted a real person to help her with the quality control problem. After a few weeks of waiting, Travelpro finally got back to her. They ended up replacing the suitcase, so I have to give them credit for that. She’s happy now that everything works, and she actually likes the bag, so she’d buy from Travelpro again just because they did make it right in the end.
MY BEST FRIEND DANA’S EXPERIENCE:
Dana was excited about this bag the moment it showed up. She loved the color and immediately noticed how smooth it rolled, even just testing it out at home. The locks on it were a nice surprise, so she felt better knowing her stuff would be secure. The luggage has a slot for a power bank, so you can always charge your phone, which is super handy when you end up in an airport that still hasn’t installed outlets at every seat. She was a little skeptical about the packing space at first, but ended up fitting a week’s worth of clothes, toiletries, and three pairs of shoes with no trouble, and that was without even unzipping the expansion section. Once she got to the airport, the real test was how her hand felt by the time she got to the gate. Usually, her hand is sore from yanking her old suitcase along. This one rolled so smoothly, she joked she could have done it with one finger. Both she and her husband found the handle easy to adjust to a comfortable height, even though they’re a foot apart in height. She feels like this bag is worth every penny, and she’d buy it again.
LINDA’S REVIEW (FROM MY BOOK CLUB):
Linda picked up the large Travelpro after her last hard shell finally died. She already had a couple of carry-on Travelpros, both soft side and hard shell, and she’s used them a lot. The four-wheel carry-on made her a convert from the old two-wheel style. She wanted something with more space, hard sides, and easy maneuverability. The large one delivered on all of that. She said the suitcase is huge inside, and it still rolls with almost no effort, even when loaded up with motorcycle helmets and jackets, or all her ski and snowboard gear. She and her daughter even used it as a rolling cart for their ski bag during a long layover in Denver, stacking everything on top and pushing it all through the airport. So far, the suitcase has made it through about sixteen flights, and it’s holding up really well, still rolling smoothly and looking good. She’s really happy with it and calls it another Travelpro winner. – Emily Dawson
Buy it on Amazon today for: $735.98 with FREE returns
4. Coolife - Boxy design gives full use of space
I travel a lot for work and honestly, I’m a bit accident-prone. Somehow, I always end up in situations where my luggage gets put through the wringer. These Cool Life bags have seriously impressed me with how much they can take. The medium one survived a full-speed collision with a cyclist on the sidewalk. I think the cyclist got the worst of it because the suitcase barely had a scratch. Then there was the time it got tossed out of an airport shuttle’s side compartment when the driver took a corner way too fast and the suitcase slammed into a concrete barrier. The other passengers’ bags were in much worse shape.
United managed to lose these bags twice and when I finally got them back, they had paint marks and clear signs of rough handling. Even so, there was only a little cosmetic damage and nothing serious.
The smallest bag has probably had the wildest ride. It once tumbled down an open stairwell from the third floor after a distracted bellhop let go. Somehow, it also ended up rolling down a hill and right across four lanes of busy highway traffic, making it to the other side untouched. I have to give some credit to the wheels for that escape, they handled the asphalt like pros.
And then there was the coffee incident. I brought instant coffee in my checked bag and the package burst open. I thought I’d just clean it later, but the mix of coffee crystals and damp air turned everything into sticky coffee mud. I actually filled half the suitcase with hot water, scraped everything out, and poured the mess down the drain. Not a single leak. The liner kept all that coffee inside and there were no stains left behind.
Both the small and medium handles hold up just fine even at United’s fifty pound limit. I’ve stuffed them full of heavy books, bottles of wine, and whatever else I could fit, and nothing broke. The wheels never complained.
I have not used the biggest one much yet, but based on the others, I feel pretty confident it will handle whatever comes its way.
This luggage has faced a lot. Luggage handlers, conveyor belts, shuttles, even a forklift—these bags just keep going. The only small issue is that stickers do not stick very well to the finish. If you love decorating your bags, that is something to keep in mind, but honestly, it is not enough to complain about. These are easy to recommend.
CODY’S EXPERIENCE:
My brother Cody is just as hard on his luggage as I am. He packs up to the fifty pound mark every time and does not baby the bags at all. The handle gets dragged over sidewalks and sometimes he breaks wheels. When one wheel finally broke, he discovered he could remove the entire wheel housing easily. Even though Cool Life does not sell replacement wheels, they refunded him fifty-four dollars for the broken piece, and he was right at the end of the two year warranty. He ordered a new set of replacement wheels online for just fifteen bucks. Changing out the wheel was a breeze. He made a small cut in the liner to reach inside, pulled off the plastic cover over the screws, and then just unscrewed the housing. Super straightforward. He found Cool Life’s customer service really fast and easy to work with. He emailed them with a couple of photos and his Amazon order number, and they processed his refund within a day. That kind of service is rare and made a big impression. Cody now swears by this company.
A FRIEND FROM MY BOOK CLUB, SUSAN JOYCE:
We picked up the three-piece set before a Vegas trip since our old luggage was getting impossible to zip. All three pieces showed up packed inside each other, which made for a surprisingly light box. For the ten day trip, my husband and I used the large and medium sizes. I always overpack, and we ended up with about sixty pounds in the big case. Luckily, first class covered the extra weight. On the way home, our bags were stuffed so full that I had to sit on the big one just to get it zipped. My husband was convinced it would burst open somewhere between Vegas and home, especially with all the airport handling. Both pieces were flagged as heavy, but made it back with only some scuffs and nothing broke. The built-in TSA locks are easy to use, and it was simple to change the codes. The bags rolled through the airport with no issues, and those spinning wheels are a real upgrade over our old luggage. For the price, I am really impressed with how they held up.
COUSIN RICK’S FAMILY TRIP:
My cousin Rick just took all four pieces of this luggage set on a Christmas trip with his five kids. He was able to fit everything they needed in those four bags. One side of the suitcase has a zippered pouch, and the other has a strap you can pull tight to keep everything in place. With special needs in the family, it was great to have the extra pockets for medicines and medical machines. The orange color made their bags stand out at baggage claim. Rick’s kids had no trouble rolling the bags through the airport, and the wheels held up perfectly. The built-in lock is simple to use and comes with instructions right inside the bag. When the trip was over, they could nest all the bags together, so storage is easy. The smallest bag fits inside the next size up, and so on, so everything goes back in the large suitcase. – Marissa Klein
Buy it on Amazon today for: $179.99 with FREE returns
5. LEVEL8 - Upgraded spinner wheels
I spent what felt like forever researching the right carry-on for a big trip to Europe. The Level 8 kept popping up in my searches and ticked every single box for me. The price made sense, the measurements included the wheels and handles - so there were no surprises at the gate - and it looked sleek. I picked a color I actually liked for once, and the attention to detail inside was a huge plus. The big selling point was the promise that the wheels would handle cobblestones, which can be a dealbreaker if you have ever tried to roll a suitcase across ancient city streets. After two weeks traveling around Italy and Greece, plus a cruise, I can say those wheels lived up to the hype.
Packing for two weeks with only this suitcase was a puzzle, but with some creativity, I pulled it off. I wore everything I brought, sometimes twice, and managed to avoid laundry the entire trip. Nothing got smelly, though by the end I was definitely glad not to stay another week. The bag’s zippers felt smooth, and locking everything up was simple. When I weighed it fully packed, it was just a bit over twenty-three pounds. I did tuck a change of clothes and pajamas in my personal bag, but everything else fit in the Level 8.
The wheels really are fantastic. They rolled right over bumpy cobblestone streets with no issues. The handle felt sturdy and comfortable. There is a front flap pocket that is probably perfect for a laptop, but I only used it for paperwork. I figured if I packed anything bulky there, I would lose precious packing space inside, so I stuck to the basics.
Only one hiccup happened, and it was not the suitcase’s fault. On the last day, I loaded my personal bag on top and tried to get everything on the bus at once. The ride was so bumpy that the bags tipped over, and someone tried to lift them by the personal bag, which bent the suitcase handle. Luckily, it did not cause any serious damage, just made it tough to close the handle all the way. After some tinkering, I got it to go back down, just not that last little bit. I am currently reaching out to Level 8 to see what they can do, but I am still really happy with the bag and would buy another. If I could change one thing, I wish it were a little lighter, since it weighs in just under seven pounds empty, but honestly, most suitcases do these days.
FAVORITE FEATURES:
The main compartment has stretchy straps to keep everything from shifting around. There is a compression panel with its own zippered pocket and adjustable straps, which really helps squeeze in extra items. The suitcase locks securely with a TSA combination lock. There is a zipper that lets you expand the case for even more packing space. The laptop compartment is padded and has a velcro strap, with all sorts of extra pockets for a tablet, charger, a mouse, tissues, or whatever else you need. I managed to fit my laptop, tablet, charger, mouse, a tote bag, luggage scale, and a magazine without any trouble. The laptop compartment zips open and tilts out for easy access, and you can open it flat if you undo the velcro. There is even a separate TSA lock for this section. The spinner wheels are quiet and move smoothly in every direction. All the zippers are sturdy and work well. The telescoping handle adjusts to two different heights, so it was easy to roll the bag even with my cabin bag stacked over the handle.
CONS:
There is no built-in identification holder, so I had to add my own luggage tag. The handle, while functional, feels a bit less sturdy than my older Samsonite and Delsey bags. I have noticed a lot of brands cutting corners on handles lately, so this might just be how things are now. A flip-out drink holder would have been handy, as I have seen those on a few other carry-ons. It would also be nice to have a charging port for devices, which I have seen on other bags.
GARY’S TAKE:
My brother Gary got the Level 8 carry-on and was impressed from the start. It arrived quickly and was packed up with foam inserts for protection, plus a cloth bag for dust and scratches. He picked a blue-gray color, which looks classy but not flashy. The suitcase expands by about two inches, which he found really helpful on a seven-day cruise. Inside, one side has a zippered pocket, and the other has buckles and a mesh divider to keep everything in place. The outer pocket zips all the way off, so it is easy to get to whatever you need. There are a ton of pockets for chargers, pens, batteries, and everything else you collect while traveling. The zippers and velcro all feel sturdy. There is a TSA lock for the main compartment and an extra one for the front. The wheels are some of the best he has ever used, rolling as smoothly as his Travelpro. His only gripe was that the handle did not feel quite as solid as his other bags, and there was not a ton of space in the front pocket when the bag was fully expanded.
MY DAD’S TAKE:
My dad was looking for a bag that could fit in the overhead bin and carry a week’s worth of clothes, plus a spot for his MacBook Pro and iPad Pro. The Level 8 checked all the boxes. He liked the fold-down computer compartment and the extra pockets for USB cables. Even though it is a little heavier than other hard-sided bags, he figures the extra weight is worth it for all the added features. He worried the iPad sleeve would be too small for his new iPad Pro, but it fit perfectly, even with a case. The inside divider is soft and flexible, so he could use all the space. He got the version with the expansion zipper, which extends between the wheels so the bag stays stable. The only snag was with shipping. He needed the bag in a hurry after his old one broke, and the first order got delayed. He ended up having to reorder it at his next stop, but once it arrived, he was happy with the choice. – Rachel McKenna
Buy it on Amazon today for: $429.99 with FREE returns
6. Samsonite [Centric 2] - Anti-scratch technology
I have taken the Samsonite Centric 2 Hardside Expandable set on three different trips now, and the only thing that shows is a handful of scuffs on the outside. The set I got has a twenty-four inch suitcase and a twenty inch carry-on. The bigger bag has been through a couple of airport baggage checks and transports, which is where the marks came from. Even with those cosmetic scuffs, everything I packed made it through in perfect shape.
One thing I like is how the twenty inch fits neatly inside the twenty-four inch for storage when you are not traveling. That alone saves a ton of closet space. For my last trip, the smaller bag held four days’ worth of clothes and shoes with room to spare, especially if you use the expansion feature. The larger one handled seven days of clothes and shoes and could definitely have fit more if I needed it to. I was surprised to see that my size twelve shoes fit sideways in the carry-on with no problem.
FEATURES:
The TSA lock on the twenty-four inch comes in handy for peace of mind. The twenty inch carry-on has a USB-A port on the outside, which was actually more useful than I expected at the airport. I made sure to bring a battery pack with a USB-A output, since the suitcase does not come with one, and was able to top off my phone when the outlets were all taken. The storage sleeve for the battery pack is a tight fit for larger ones, but works fine with anything around six inches long and four inches wide or smaller. Both suitcases feel durable. They handled baggage checks, car rides, and overhead bin shoving without a hitch. My stuff was always protected. The only minor quirk is the retractable handles. They can slide out of their locked positions and close with enough force. It is not a big deal, but it did catch me off guard the first couple times. I would recommend pulling these bags, not pushing, to avoid that issue.
This two piece Samsonite set has worked out great for me. The fact that the carry-on has a charging port and still fits plenty, even with big shoes, is a real plus. Just make sure to get your own battery pack and that it has the right output. All in all, I have no trouble recommending this set to anyone who needs reliable luggage for travel.
MY SISTER’S TAKE:
My sister picked up the three piece set to replace a very old Samsonite soft side set that finally needed to retire. She had never tried hardside luggage before, so it was a bit of a leap. Her first thought was that the shells felt more flexible than expected, which made her worry about durability. After their first cross country trip, though, all three bags made it through just fine, with only some light scratches and scuffing on the outside. Nothing broke, the zippers and wheels worked perfectly, and the handles survived the roughest baggage handling. She liked the interior zippered compartments and the TSA friendly locks, which are tucked out of the way. The wheels are lighter than their old set but seem to roll more smoothly and stand up to travel. The bags are much lighter than their previous luggage, which was a nice bonus. She did notice that when they really stuffed the biggest case, the zipper was tight, but using the expandable feature relieved the strain. The only thing she did not love was how much the top flexed when the expandable section was open, so she kept it zipped most of the time. Her one tiny complaint is about scratches, anyone who has flown knows luggage will get banged up, and these are scratch resistant, not scratch proof. Not a big deal for her, just something to know. As a side note, the carry-on in their set has a built-in charger for devices, but you have to buy the battery separately. She and her husband do not care about that feature, but it is worth mentioning.
MY NEIGHBOR’S TAKE:
My neighbor, Chris, had never owned a good set of luggage before, but with an international cruise coming up, they wanted something dependable. After researching all the top brands, Samsonite seemed to show up everywhere. Prices can be high, so they were excited to find a deal on an emerald green two piece set in the right sizes. The color turned out to be beautiful, even though she usually prefers pink. They noticed the wheels rolled smoothly, though she felt the wheels were a little light and will be keeping an eye on them. As long as you know the carry-on is the only one without a lock, there are no surprises. So far, she is very happy with the choice and was glad to find a new set at a great price, straight from Amazon.
BOOK CLUB FRIEND:
Another friend from my book club grabbed a used three piece set for a steal and says the suitcases all looked brand new on arrival. She liked how all three pieces nest for easy storage, and appreciated how lightweight the cases are. Setting the TSA lock to a personal code took some fiddling, since the zipper handles needed to fit exactly in the lock slots, but she figured it out. The one thing she is watching for is how much give there is in the hard shell, she has read reviews about these cases caving in, and now understands why. She hopes that flexibility means the polycarbonate will bounce back instead of cracking. She is reserving her final opinion until after her big international trip, but likes the look and storage so far. For anyone wondering about setting the lock, she had to Google it, but all you do is press a pin into the little hole next to the dials, spin to your code, release, and you are set. – Sarah Klein
Buy it on Amazon today for: $182.94 with FREE returns
7. Kenneth Cole - Inside features a zippered pocket and dual-sided packing compartments
I am a middle-aged woman who mostly travels alone, usually to visit my grandkids or sometimes for academic events. I bought this Kenneth Cole suitcase about a year ago, and honestly, I had my doubts at first. I always thought Samsonite or one of those big name brands when it comes to luggage, not Kenneth Cole. I really wondered if this suitcase would be up to the task.
This review is inspired by my latest trip from Northern California to Portland and back, and the bag had to make it through planes, taxis, light rail, and a car ride. When I unpacked, I realized just how much I managed to fit inside. Here’s what made the trip: five tank tops, two t-shirts, two light cardigans, three pairs of yoga pants, two bras, four pairs of underwear, one pair of shorts, a bathing suit, a sheath dress, two pairs of socks, sneakers, flannel pajama pants, cropped jeans, a knit skirt, a fully loaded toiletries bag, barrel brush, mini hair dryer, curling iron, two magazines, two bags of candy, and two stuffed toys.
PROS:
This suitcase is lightweight, even when it’s stuffed full. It fits easily in the overhead bin, which is huge for commuter flights with tiny bins. The wheels spin easily and make it simple to get down narrow aisles. I had no trouble getting it in or out of a car trunk or hopping on Portland’s light rail. At home, it fits right in the corner of my closet, out of the way until my next trip.
CONS:
The handle does feel a little wobbly when fully extended. If anything is going to go first, it will probably be that handle. The zipper is not the most high-end either, but so far it has held up. I’ve taken this bag on eight flights and always used it as a carry-on, so I can’t say how it would hold up to constant rough handling or being tossed by baggage handlers. One thing I do miss is external pockets. This case is solid all around, so if you like to stuff magazines or your boarding pass in a quick-access pocket, you will notice their absence.
BOTTOM LINE:
All in all, I have been really happy with this suitcase. It fits a week’s worth of clothing and travel stuff and has been a real joy to use. I’ve grown pretty attached to my little travel buddy. If you catch a good sale and treat it with reasonable care, I think you will be satisfied. I sure am.
LISA’S EXPERIENCE:
My cousin Lisa in Orlando already owned two carry-ons from this line, so she knew what to expect. She finds this suitcase perfect for people who travel a few times a year and want something they can really cram full and still get home with everything intact. The hard exterior holds up well even though it seems thin at first glance. Once packed, the bag is sturdier than you’d expect. The zippers are strong and glide smoothly, even when the case is packed tight. The wheels handle everything from parking lot pavement to metal grates to airport carpet, and the handle is easy to adjust for height. Lisa mentioned she likes this line for vacation and light travel, not for constant business travel. With heavy use, she thinks the shell could eventually crack and the handles or zippers might have quality control issues. For her, the fun color options are a bonus, and she finds the price makes up for the risk of a future issue. Her advice is to match your suitcase to your travel habits and volume.
MY BROTHER-IN-LAW’S TAKE:
My brother-in-law needed to replace a suitcase that did not live up to its promises, so he took a chance on this Kenneth Cole bag. After three trips and eight flights, he has been impressed. The four-way spinner wheels make it so much easier to navigate security lines, and the outer shell is holding up well with hardly any scratches. The case is a little shorter than some, which actually makes it easier to slide into the overhead compartment. He has become a big fan of the fully zipped side compartment inside the suitcase, which lets him pack that section really tight without anything falling out. It is almost like having a suitcase within a suitcase. Now, when he has to open the bag to remove liquids or electronics, he no longer has to worry about everything spilling out. The lightness and slight flexibility of the hard shell also come in handy, especially when coming home with a few extra souvenirs. The zipper band has a little stretch, making it easier to zip up after shopping. He is now happy to recommend this suitcase to others. – Jenna Larson
Buy it on Amazon today for: $179.99 with FREE returns
8. Samsonite [Centric 3] - Large spinner wheels for multi-directional rolling
I will be honest, I was nervous about buying this luggage. I travel a lot, and international trips are pretty common for me. I kept worrying the bag was too big and would get flagged by a check-in agent somewhere, leaving me with a heap of stuff and nothing to haul it in. So far, knock on wood, that has never happened. The dimensions are a bit unusual, and I know it sometimes pushes the line on what counts as standard international luggage, but I have never had a single airline turn it away. I have always managed to check it with no trouble at all.
PROS:
The hard shell has done a great job keeping my belongings safe and feels like an extra layer of protection against theft. The built-in lock is super easy to use and gives me peace of mind. I also love that the bag expands to hold more, though I have not maxed it out yet. The handle is comfortable and pulls out easily. The spinner wheels glide along with no problem, even over rough cobblestone and brick. The absolute best part is the capacity. It really does hold a ton of stuff. And that orange color is as bright and bold as it gets. Nobody is going to grab this by mistake, and I spot it instantly at baggage claim.
TIPS:
Like most hardside bags, it opens down the middle, so you do have to lay it out flat to access anything. Not always ideal if you are living out of your suitcase in a small space. The interior is pretty basic, just one giant compartment, so if you are not careful your stuff can get a bit mixed up. Packing cubes are a big help here. The mesh divider keeps things contained, but it is still a single open space when you unzip it. If you travel like me and tend to rummage for things, be ready for a little chaos.
BOOK CLUB FRIEND’S TAKE:
A friend from my book club has been using this suitcase nonstop for five months and says it has handled being dropped and tossed by the airlines with barely a scratch. She loves how easy it is to push, even with small wheels. This is her first spinner suitcase and she cannot believe she waited this long to try one. The bag holds plenty and expands easily. She mentioned two negatives. First, the main handle feels a little flimsy when the bag is packed heavy, so she is careful not to pull too hard when it is over forty-five pounds. Second, both handles are on the same half of the suitcase, which can make it awkward to maneuver when fully loaded or expanded. She recommends it overall, especially for the price, and says it has kept her stuff dry even in airport rainstorms.
NEIGHBOR SHELLY’S TAKE:
Shelly raves about the unique orange color and how the bag has stayed looking new after more than twenty-five thousand miles of travel. The built-in TSA lock is a feature she uses all the time. She loves how much space there is inside, she has packed for three month work trips with everything from steel-toed boots to a chef’s knife and even a PS4 with controllers. There have been times when she has had to stuff the bag with extra packing material just to keep things from shifting because there was so much unused room. The mesh divider works well to keep items separate, and she appreciates the extra touches like the sturdy roller wheels and multiple handles. She says you get a lot of value for the money and has no trouble spotting her bag at the airport.
MY BROTHER’S TAKE:
My brother got this suitcase in 2019 for a trip to Cuba and was amazed by how smooth the wheels were and how lightweight it felt. He was able to fit in all his clothes, games, souvenirs, and even books for a friend in Havana. The bag handled the whole trip with ease. A year later, during the pandemic, he had to juggle flights, school, and quarantine, and this suitcase became his one reliable companion. It fit everything he needed for studying online and moving back to campus. He has taken it all over the place and it still looks brand new. – Suzzanne Foster
Buy it on Amazon today for: $235.14 with FREE returns
9. SHOWKOO - Bearings inside the wheels ensure silent rolling
I recently picked up a set of suitcases from Amazon for an upcoming work trip, and even though I haven’t had the chance to actually travel with them yet, I’m already impressed. Just opening the boxes, you can tell these were packed with care. Each suitcase was nested inside the other, well-protected against scratches, which already gave me a good feeling about the brand.
DESIGN:
The look of these bags really grabbed my attention right away. They have a professional, stylish vibe that works for both business and personal travel. The finish is attractive and the design just feels thoughtfully put together. I like that they’re sleek without being flashy.
HANDLING:
I tested the wheels around the house, and they’re about as smooth as it gets. The suitcases just glide along effortlessly, which is a big deal if you’ve ever tried to push a stubborn suitcase through a busy airport or a crowded hotel lobby. The handle extends and retracts without a hitch, and feels comfortable in your hand, even when you add weight.
ORGANIZATION:
Inside, these suitcases are surprisingly roomy. They open wide and there’s a ton of space, with a really smart interior layout: plenty of space for clothes, shoes, and all the extras. I was able to fit so much in my bag last time: a compression pillow, seven pairs of pants, seven shirts, all the undergarments, swim trunks, sandals, an electric toothbrush, trimmer, a book, aftershave, cologne, plus all the usual toiletries and a few random extras. The zipper flaps inside are a nice touch, perfect for separating dirty and clean clothes.
FEATURES:
There are practical details everywhere. Built-in locking mechanisms offer some peace of mind. The whole set is sturdy, but somehow lightweight, so I don’t feel like I’ll be penalized for bringing everything I need. The size is generous, but the bags never feel bulky.
VERDICT:
Overall, I’m feeling really confident about my choice. I can already see these being a regular part of my travels. Once I’ve put them through an actual trip, I’ll come back and update this review, but for now, it’s a solid five out of five. Highly recommend, especially if you want a great mix of style, function, and value.
MY COUSIN’S EXPERIENCE:
My cousin also got the Showkoo set, and she’s honestly really happy with it. The storage space is generous, the handle feels comfortable, and the bags just look sharp rolling through an airport. She did run into a hiccup - the retractable handle on the largest suitcase got stuck in the upright position during her last trip. She had to force it down, which was a pain, but besides that, the set left a great impression. The compartments inside keep things organized, and the material seems to hold up well under real travel conditions. She likes how easy the bags are to maneuver, even fully loaded, and the expandable feature is a game-changer when it comes to packing extra souvenirs. The only thing she’d change is the handle mechanism on the big bag, but that hasn’t stopped her from recommending the set.
MY BOYFRIEND’S EXPERIENCE:
My boyfriend just took his Showkoo suitcase to Japan and had it shipped between six different cities using their luggage transfer service. So, it got handled by all kinds of people, and he was really happy with how well it held up - barely a mark on it. He went with the wine red color, which stands out at baggage claim and doesn’t show dirt or scuffs like the lighter colors. This was his first hard shell suitcase, and he purposely chose an expandable one, though he was nervous about the zippers being a weak spot. To be safe, he started double-strapping the case every time it was transported, one strap vertical, one horizontal, with buckles carefully positioned to avoid breakage in the cargo hold. No zipper problems at all. If you’re worried about over-packing or broken zippers, he suggests this double-strap trick for peace of mind.
MY FRIENDS' EXPERIENCE:
My friends, the Shridans, got two Showkoo hard luggage sets for their month-long trip from Alaska to Scotland. They loved the huge capacity, which beat their old soft-side bags by a mile. The partitions inside made it easy to keep things organized, and the bags wheeled smoothly through airports and hotels. Even when packed just under fifty pounds each, there was almost no wear and tear except for a few scuffs that barely showed on the textured surface. Delta managed to crack one of the big cases on the return flight: a four-inch split from the wheel up. The support email bounced back, and it turns out Showkoo only sells full sets, not individual replacements. Still, they liked the bags so much they’re planning to buy another set and use the damaged one for spare parts. – Laura Bennett
Buy it on Amazon today for: $189.99 with FREE returns