The Best Checked Luggage of 2024, Tested by Experts
Smooth and durable spinners, hard-shell bags and softside suitcases for epic trips.
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If you're headed on a long trip or you identify as an over-packer like me, a larger piece of checked luggage is the key to bringing everything you'll need and more to your next vacation destination. Plus, you won't have to lug it through security, worry about gate-checking it on a packed flight or hoist it into an overhead bin. If you're concerned about losing your bag once it's out of your hands, try one of our expert-approved luggage trackers to pinpoint its location.
With so many luggage brands to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which suitcases are worth it, especially since bigger bags can cost bigger bucks. That's why, at the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we test luggage for all types of travel. In recent years, we've evaluated more than 100 suitcases, testing them in our Lab and sending them to consumer testers who take them on real trips to test for durability, appearance and performance properties.
Our top picks:
- Best Overall: Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Spinner
- Best Value: Amazon Basics 30-Inch Hardside Spinner
- Most Popular: Away The Large
- Best for Minimalists: Monos Check-In Large
- Best for Business Travel: Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Spinner
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Spinner
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Spinner
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Smooth rolling wheels
- Sturdy telescopic handle
Cons
- Some testers said carrying handles felt tight
After more than fifteen years of evaluating Samsonite luggage, its bags continue to stand out in our Textiles Lab tests. This style in particular is one of our favorite models, thanks to its lightweight design and easy-to-use features. At 9.6 pounds, it's one of the lightest suitcases we tested, but it's still durable. In our drop tests, the hardside polypropylene material performed well without major dents or damages.
It's a favorite of our consumer testers who say the suitcase has smooth rolling wheels that make it easy to maneuver around corners and turns. When I evaluated the suitcase in the Lab, I was impressed by the sturdy telescopic handle that locks into place at different heights for comfortable pushing and pulling. Our testers said the carrying handles felt a little tight, but they still thought the bag was easy to pick up.
The suitcase has a butterfly opening and unzips into two primary packing compartments: one with a stretch compression strap for flexible security and one with a zippered panel to keep all of your belongings in place. You'll also find a smaller zippered pocket for additional storage. We were able to fit our entire packing load in the suitcase with room to spare. For even more room to bring home souvenirs on your vacation, the checked bag can be expanded by almost another inch.
Weight: 9.6 lbs | Listed dimensions: 13.78" x 20.95" x 31.1" | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused
Amazon Basics 30-Inch Hardside Spinner
Pros
- No major dents in drop tests
- Roomy interior for packing
- Solid maneuverability scores
Cons
- Telescopic handle felt flimsier than others
With more than 46,000 reviews on Amazon and an average rating of 4.5 stars, this hardside spinner suitcase from Amazon Basics is solid evidence that you don't need to break the bank to buy a quality piece of luggage.
In addition to impressing tens of thousands of online reviewers, this collection of bags also wowed us and our consumer testers. The suitcase is made with ABS plastic, which isn't as durable as polycarbonate material, but it helps keep the cost low (and it's usually on sale). Plus, it performed well in our durability assessments, showing some marks in our scratch test but resisting major dents and damage in our drop test.
When our testers rolled the carry-on model through our obstacle course setup, they loved the smooth-rolling wheels, and one tester said the bag was "very easy to move." However, they shared that the telescopic handle felt notably less sturdy than other suitcases they tested. Packing it was a breeze, thanks to its spacious interior with a large zippered compartment, smaller pockets to help with organization and a compression strap to secure your things. You can even expand the bag for extra packing space.
Weight: 12.2 lbs | Listed dimensions: 30.7" x 12" x 20.47" | Material: Hardside ABS | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused
Pros
- Aced our drop tests
- 100-day trial period
- Laundry bag and luggage tag included
Cons
- Testers said the telescopic handle could be sturdier
After conducting tests for our Away luggage review, we have to say that the trendy bags are worth investing in.
Its hard-shell polycarbonate material proved to be durable in our tests, but it's still lighter than even some of the soft fabric suitcases we reviewed. When we repeatedly dropped the carry-on model from our drop tester, there was no noticeable damage. It even aced our scratch tests with minimal scuffs. The bag unzips into two roomy compartments. One side closes with a zipper, and the other features compression straps that made the packing process simple in our evaluations. Our consumer testers said the telescopic handles could feel sturdier, but they gave the handle high scores for comfort, and they loved the smooth wheels.
The bag comes with a genuine leather luggage tag to help you identify your suitcase and a removable laundry bag to stash your dirty clothes. It's currently available in six on-trend colors including the featured red, navy, cloud gray and sea green. There's even an option to customize your bag with your initials for an added fee. Away offers a generous 100-day trial period, so you can gently test it out at home and return or exchange it if you decide it's not for you.
Weight: 12.1 lbs | Listed dimensions: 29" x 20.5" x 12.5" | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused
Monos Check-In Large
Pros
- Durable outer shell
- Smooth, easy-to-roll wheels
- Aced our packing tests
Cons
- Material showed signs of wear in scratch tests
Ideal for someone who prefers a sleeker, more minimalist aesthetic, this checked bag from popular luggage brand Monos wowed both GH analysts and our consumer testers during our evaluations.
The durable polycarbonate luggage follows the brand's "less is more" design philosophy, but it isn't lacking in space or organization. We rated it highly for being easy to pack, with a roomy interior that's divided into two compartments: One is zipper-enclosed and the other has an adjustable compression panel to keep contents secure. Plus, there are three spacious mesh zippered pockets for additional organization, and you'll also receive a laundry bag and two shoe bags.
When testers rolled the suitcase through our obstacle course, they were wowed by how easy it was to maneuver and how smoothly the spinner wheels rolled. "I was pleasantly surprised by how easy this bag was to travel with," shared one tester who took the bag on a trip. "I didn't have to roll it behind me; I could roll it next to me." In our durability assessments, the suitcase managed to hold up to repeated drops without suffering major dents, but the shell did show some marks and scuffs in our scratch test. The brand sends an "eco-friendly eraser sponge" to clean more stubborn marks.
Monos also offers a 100-day trial period, which means you can test the bag at home for up to 100 days before committing.
Weight: 10.6 lbs | Listed dimensions: 30" x 21" x 11" | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused
Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Spinner
Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Spinner
Pros
- Removable garment bag and toiletry bag included
- Self-aligning wheels
- Durable material stood out in abrasion tests
Cons
- Traditional style looks a bit old-fashioned, according to some testers
Travelpro was founded by a pilot who wanted to create luggage for frequent fliers who are rough on their bags, so the brand's suitcases are perfect for regular business travel.
This luxe softside bag comes in six traditional colors like rich espresso brown and Bordeaux red, and although some of our testers said the style was a bit old-fashioned, I appreciate the bag's sophisticated design elements, like chrome zippers and genuine leather carrying handles and trim. Other impressive features include a removable garment bag that's ideal for storing a work suit or dress, a TSA-compliant toiletry bag and plenty of internal and external pockets for organization, as well as a 2-inch zippered expansion that's tapered to help prevent your bag from becoming top-heavy and tipping over.
When we evaluated the carry-on model, the nylon fabric proved durable in our abrasion tests, resisting wear. In other tests, it showed no major signs of damage after being dropped repeatedly, and the zippers were water-resistant, keeping the contents inside the bag nice and dry. During our packing test, we could fit our standard load and had plenty of room to spare. Our testers said the cushioned telescopic handle had great grip. Even better, the bag's double spinner wheels are self-aligning to help you roll smoothly through the airport.
Weight: 11.5 lbs | Listed dimensions: 32.5" x 21" x 13.25" | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused
Delsey Paris Helium DLX Softside Expandable Checked Large
Delsey Paris Helium DLX Softside Expandable Checked Large
Pros
- Removable, machine washable lining
- Durable material
- Easily accessible outer pockets
Cons
- Lower maneuverability scores
Weighing in at just 10.2 pounds, this checked bag from Delsey is one of our lightest picks, but just because the bag is light doesn't mean it isn't durable or spacious.
In our durability tests, the carry-on model held up well to repeated dropping without major dents or damages, and the polyester-and-nylon-blend material withstood rubbing from our abrasion machine. During consumer evaluations, our testers said the bag wasn't as easy to maneuver as others they tried, but they gave it good scores overall during use and rated the handle highly for feeling comfortable and sturdy.
The suitcase we evaluated aced our packing tests, receiving perfect scores for being easy to fill and for holding our standard load of belongings for a long trip. We did have some difficulty opening and closing the zippers while packing the carry-on-size bag, and I personally find Delsey's zippers to be stubborn, but our testers appreciated all of the zippered compartments for organization, with one sharing, "I love the pockets." The suitcase unzips into one large opening, complete with compression straps to secure your belongings, a large mesh zippered pocket and a removable bifold toiletry bag.
Plus, there are two outer pockets, and the suitcase can be expanded by up to 2 inches for more room. The inner lining is fully removable, which makes it simple to clean, since you can just take it out and throw it in the washing machine.
Weight: 10.2 lbs | Listed dimensions: 32.75" x 20" x 13.5" | Material: Softside polyester-and-nylon blend | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused
Briggs & Riley Baseline Extra Large Expandable Spinner
Briggs & Riley Baseline Extra Large Expandable Spinner
Pros
- Received high maneuverability scores
- Unique push-button expansion
- Material resisted wear in abrasion tests
Cons
- Heavier than other picks
What sets this bag from Briggs & Riley apart is its innovative design that simplifies packing for longer trips.
When you unzip the bag, it exposes one large, lined compartment to store your belongings and two mesh zippered pockets for smaller items and accessories. Hidden inside the lid of the suitcase is a built-in trifold garment folder with a hook for hangers that's perfect for storing formal attire. Our testers who tried a smaller model of this bag were impressed by how much they could fit inside, sharing that there was way more space than they expected. Plus, a unique push-button expansion system allows you to easily expand the bag for extra packing space and then compress it down to its standard size once it's been filled.
For a softside bag, it's on the heavier side, weighing 15.6 pounds, but it's made with high-quality materials and is reinforced at the corners to protect your valuables. When I put the nylon material to the test with our abrasion machine, I was impressed that it showed no major signs of wear or scratches. It was the top performer in our most recent round of drop testing; I found no major dents or damage after loading it into our drop tester and releasing it repeatedly. Our testers said the bag was easy to maneuver through our obstacle course and rated the telescopic handle as sturdy too.
Weight: 15.6 lbs | Listed dimensions: 31" x 22" x 13.8" | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused
Calpak Ambeur Large Luggage
Pros
- Material held up well in drop tests
- Spacious and easy to pack
- Sturdy telescopic handle
Cons
- Some visible marks in scratch test
A favorite of our testers, Calpak's Ambeur collection of luggage is the ideal combination of fashion and function. It's available in four trendy metallics: silver, gold, black and rose gold, along with a limited copper color. This high-quality checked bag is made of polycarbonate and ABS composite material that's lightweight and held up well to repeated drops in our tests. It did show some signs of wear in our scratch test, but that's common with ABS composites.
When our testers rolled the carry-on model through our obstacle course, they were happy with its easy-to-use telescopic handle, with one describing it as "the smoothest handle by far," compared to other luggage being tested. Other testers said the padded handles were comfy to hold and easy to steer and lift with.
The interior of the bag is also impressive, and I find it easy to pack full of everything I need for a two-week trip. Inside, there are two large areas for storing larger belongings, complete with a compression strap and a zippered panel, as well as two additional zippered pockets and a handy removable toiletries bag. You can even expand the spacious bag by 2 inches to bring souvenirs back with you on your trip home, but there's so much packing space already that you may not even need the extra room.
Weight: 11.75 lbs | Listed dimensions: 30" x 19" x 12" | Material: Hardside polycarbonate and ABS composite | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused
How we test checked luggage
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we regularly test all kinds of luggage — including larger checked luggage — with our specialized Lab equipment and by setting up obstacle courses for testers to navigate. We also share our luggage with consumer testers who try the bags on their own trips. Here's how we evaluate checked bags and other luggage:
✔️ Size and weight: We've found that listed specs for luggage aren't always accurate, so we weigh each piece of luggage while it's empty. Then we measure the luggage to see if it complies with dimension restrictions put in place by most U.S. airlines.
✔️ Ease of use: We rate how easy it is to zip and unzip (pictured) and consider the accessibility of the packing compartments.
We also evaluate important features like the telescopic handle and the wheels. After packing the bag, we practice rolling it over different surfaces, such as tile, carpet and hardwood, and lift it onto countertops to try out the handles.
✔️ Packing capabilities: We pack each suitcase with a standard load of items for a week-long trip, including shoes, clothes and toiletries (pictured). We score the suitcase based on how much it can hold and how easily we can fill it.
✔️ Abrasion resistance: We cut swatches of fabric from softside luggage and load them into our abrasion machine (pictured) which rubs the material against an abrasive surface 15,000 times to simulate extended use. We then assess the material and grade it for signs of wear.
✔️ Scratch resistance: To determine scratch resistance, we drag a wire over hardside luggage material and then visually assess any scratches, ridges, scuffs or markings left behind.
✔️ Drop durability: We fill each suitcase with a standard weight and load it into our drop tester (pictured). The drop tester releases each piece of luggage from a set height of three feet. We repeat the test in various directions, noting and scoring any damages, dents or imperfections that result.
✔️ Consumer tests: To simulate actual use, we set up a standard course that features a variety of surfaces and obstacles that testers must navigate, such as pulling the suitcase through sharp turns, lifting the bag over curbs, transitioning to different types of flooring (pictured) and more. To mimic a real travel load, each suitcase is filled with weight before being put to the test. Testers also rate factors like ease of use, comfort and sturdiness of the handles, as well as the performance and smoothness of the wheels and overall maneuverability.
We also share suitcases with testers, editors and analysts who take them on their own trips and provide us with real-user feedback about their experiences. Plus, we take the luggage on our own trips, and I have personally used several of the bags featured on my vacations and trips abroad.
What to look for when shopping for the best checked luggage
Here are some things to keep in mind while searching for the best checked luggage for your needs:
✔️ Wheels: In our evaluations, 360-degree wheels — called spinner wheels — have consistently received the best scores for maneuverability. Larger checked luggage should have four wheels, making it easier to roll, push and pull in all directions.
✔️ Telescopic handle: It may not seem like a huge deal, but a solid, sturdy handle can have a big impact on the performance of your luggage, especially when you're lugging around a heavy checked bag. If you get to examine the luggage in person, we recommend testing how easy it is to raise and lower the handle and checking to see if it can be adjusted to different heights for comfortable toting. Consider the feel of the handle as well, and note if it has a good grip or extra padding. Be sure to use the handle with care because jerking or rough use can lead to damage over time.
✔️ Top and side handles: Look for luggage that has easy-to-grip top and side handles, which can be helpful when lifting and lowering bags from higher surfaces. You may not be placing your checked bag into an overhead bin, but you'll still need to carry it down stairs, lift it into trunks or place it on a scale at the airport.
✔️ Compartments: Most larger hardside checked bags unzip and open into two sections, but softside bags tend to have one large open space for packing your belongings. For more organization, opt for a bag with plenty of compartments, whether they're larger mesh storage spaces, small zippered pockets or exterior pockets for easy access while traveling. Many checked bags will also include a built-in garment bag, toiletry bag and/or laundry bag for even more organization.
✔️ Zippers: Try out the zipper by opening and closing the bag a few times to determine if it's easy to use or if you find it to be finicky and difficult to grip. If possible, also try assessing water resistance by placing a small drop of water on the zipper to see if the water seeps through or beads on the surface.
✔️ Weight: Checked luggage can be pretty heavy, even when empty. Most checked bags, hard and soft, weigh between 10 and 13 pounds, but some weigh upwards of 15 pounds. Most airlines have a 50-pound weight limit for checked luggage with belongings inside, so a heavier suitcase can eat up valuable weight you'd normally use for your packing load.
✔️ Returns and warranties: Warranties tend to only cover manufacturer defects, which can be difficult to prove. If you're worried about committing to a piece of luggage, instead of focusing on the warranty, check to see if the brand offers an extended trial period and/or an any-reason return policy. This can be especially helpful if you're buying your suitcase online and can't try it out in person first.
Which is better: Hardside or softside luggage?
Choosing either hardside or softside luggage is really up to your personal preference. Both types of checked luggage have advantages and disadvantages, so keep these things in mind while you're making a decision:
✔️ Hardside luggage: Hardside suitcases tend to be durable, stylish and lightweight. Not all hard suitcases are the same, though. These are the most popular types of hard material:
- Polycarbonate: This is the most common material for hardside luggage because it's typically lighter than aluminum but also more durable than ABS plastic. It's able to resist high-impact drops but is more susceptible to scratches and scuffs, so manufacturers will sometimes add a special coating to prevent scratching.
- ABS plastic: It's a more affordable material to use, so most lower-cost hardside luggage is made with ABS. The material is super lightweight but not as durable as polycarbonate or metals.
- Polycarbonate/ABS composites: Some suitcases combine polycarbonate and ABS, so you can reap the benefits of both. Typically with composites, there will be a layer of ABS plastic under a coating of polycarbonate. It's not quite as strong as a suitcase made of only polycarbonate, but it's typically more affordable than solid polycarbonate.
- Aluminum: Metal suitcases made of aluminum are more durable than other materials, but they're heavy and can be pretty pricey, so it's not as commonly used.
✔️ Softside luggage: Fabric-based suitcases are more malleable than hardside bags, so they can be easier to store in tight spaces or stuff completely full while you're packing. The material is also less susceptible to scratches and dents, but it's subject to abrasion over time. These materials are often used for softside luggage:
- Nylon: Most softside suitcases are made of nylon, which is a synthetic fiber that's durable and resists wear, and it's fairly water-resistant. It's a great option for frequent fliers who might be rough on their luggage.
- Polyester: Another synthetic fiber, polyester tends to be less expensive than nylon and more lightweight. It's not usually as durable, but we have tested many polyester bags that are abrasion-resistant.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Since joining the GH Institute in 2022 as an analyst, Amanda Constantine has tested and written about luggage of all kinds including carry-ons, duffels, travel backpacks and hardside luggage. Amanda also conducted some of the luggage testing for Good Housekeeping's Family Travel Awards program. For this article, she reviewed former testing data and used her related expertise and personal experience to make recommendations for the best checked luggage.
Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.
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