Choosing the right suitcase is paramount for stress-free travel. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or an occasional vacationer, your luggage is your steadfast companion, safeguarding your belongings through bustling airports and across diverse terrains. In the quest to identify the Best Suitcase For Travel in 2025, Forbes Vetted assembled a panel of experienced travelers, including seasoned travel editors, to rigorously test 20 top-rated contenders over nine months. This extensive evaluation process considered crucial factors such as size, weight, construction quality, thoughtful features, and warranty. The result? A curated list of suitcases that excel in various travel scenarios, ensuring you find the perfect match for your needs. From durable carry-ons for quick getaways to spacious checked bags for extended adventures, this guide dives into the top performers, highlighting their strengths and ideal use cases, helping you make an informed decision for your next journey.
Top Pick: Best Overall Suitcase
Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On: The Gold Standard in Travel Luggage
The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Spinner in Shadow Black, renowned for its durability and maneuverability, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers.
Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 7.8 pounds | Capacity: 46L | Colors: 9 | Warranty: 5-year limited
Pros:
- Exceptionally durable and weather-resistant construction
- Smooth and effortless maneuverability
- Generous packing capacity within a compact carry-on size
- Thoughtful features like compression straps and accessory pockets
Cons:
- Traditional aesthetic might not appeal to all
The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Spinner emerged as the best overall suitcase after rigorous testing, consistently earning top marks from testers. Its robust, weather-resistant material ensures your belongings stay protected, while its well-designed interior offers a generous 46L capacity, ideal for trips lasting 5 to 7 days. Testers lauded its smooth-rolling wheels, highlighting its effortless maneuverability even on uneven surfaces like concrete. The suitcase’s softside construction includes practical features such as compression straps, a convenient USB port, and dedicated accessory pockets, enhancing packing efficiency and on-the-go charging. While its design leans towards a classic, functional style rather than a cutting-edge modern look, the Platinum Elite excels as a reliable, all-around best suitcase choice for travelers who prioritize durability and performance. For those seeking even greater resilience, a hardside version is also available. Travelpro also offers medium and large checked sizes in the Platinum Elite line, accommodating longer trips and varied travel needs.
Best Carry-On Suitcase
Away The Bigger Carry-On: Sleek Design Meets Smart Functionality
The Away Bigger Carry-On suitcase in Coast Blue, showcasing its sleek hardside design and ease of mobility in a travel setting.
Dimensions: 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 7.4 pounds | Capacity: 47.9L | Colors: 11 | Warranty: Limited lifetime
Pros:
- Impact-resistant polycarbonate shell for superior durability
- Impressive packing space for a carry-on
- Thoughtful additions like a laundry bag and compression system
- Smooth and quiet wheels
Cons:
- Highly popular design might lack distinctiveness
The Away The Bigger Carry-On stands out as the best carry-on suitcase, blending a sleek aesthetic with exceptional functionality. Its durable polycarbonate shell is designed to withstand the rigors of travel, protecting your belongings from bumps and impacts. Despite its carry-on size, it offers a generous 47.9L capacity, making it suitable for trips lasting nearly a week. Away’s signature compression system, complete with adjustable straps, maximizes packing space, allowing you to fit more than you might expect. Practical features like a discreet laundry bag for separating dirty clothes and smooth, quiet wheels enhance the overall travel experience. Available in a wide array of colors, from understated neutrals to vibrant hues, the Away Bigger Carry-On caters to diverse personal styles. For travelers needing even more flexibility, the Carry-On Flex model expands to provide additional packing room. While its popularity means it’s a common sight in airports, the Away Bigger Carry-On remains a top choice for its blend of style, durability, and smart design, making it a truly best suitcase option in the carry-on category.
Best Checked Suitcase
Calpak Ambeur Large: Spacious and Stylish for Longer Journeys
The Calpak Ambeur Large checked suitcase in Rose Gold, highlighting its spacious design and stylish aesthetic suitable for extended trips.
Dimensions: 30 x 19 x 12 inches | Weight: 11.7 pounds | Capacity: 102.7L | Colors: 2 | Warranty: 5-year limited
Pros:
- Expansive packing capacity for longer trips
- Comfortable and easy-grip handles
- Smooth dual spinner wheels
- Relatively affordable price point
Cons:
- Limited color options
- Darker colors prone to scuffing
The Calpak Ambeur Large is the best suitcase for checked baggage, offering an impressive 102.7L of packing space, ideal for extended trips exceeding a week. Despite its generous size, it remains surprisingly lightweight and easy to maneuver, thanks to its smooth dual spinner wheels. Testers praised its roominess, noting that even chronic over-packers would find ample space. The suitcase expands an additional two inches, providing extra capacity when needed. Interior organization is well-considered with four zippered compartments and compression straps to secure belongings. The Ambeur Large also features exceptionally comfortable grip handles with a rubber lining, making it easier to manage heavy loads. While it lacks exterior pockets, its interior organization and vast packing space compensate for this. Available in stylish Gold and Rose Gold, the Ambeur Large offers a touch of elegance to checked luggage. However, testers noted that darker colors are susceptible to scuffing, suggesting lighter shades might maintain their appearance better over time. Overall, the Calpak Ambeur Large is a top-performing checked suitcase, balancing capacity, maneuverability, and style at a competitive price, making it a best suitcase contender for longer travels.
Best Suitcase for International Travel
Samsonite Freeform Carry-On: Global Traveler’s Reliable Companion
The Samsonite Freeform Carry-On suitcase in Navy Blue, demonstrating its lightweight design and suitability for international airline carry-on size restrictions.
Dimensions: 23 x 15 x 10 inches | Weight: 6.5 pounds | Capacity: 34L | Colors: 15 | Warranty: 10-year global limited
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver, ideal for navigating international airports
- Compliant with most international carry-on size restrictions
- Expandable for added packing space
- Wide variety of fun and modern colors
Cons:
- Polypropylene shell less impact-resistant than polycarbonate
The Samsonite Freeform Carry-On is the best suitcase for international travel, specifically designed to meet the size restrictions of most international airlines. Its lightweight construction, at just 6.5 pounds, and smooth-rolling wheels make navigating busy international airports a breeze. Despite its compact size, it offers a practical 34L capacity, expandable by an inch for those extra souvenirs. Samsonite, a trusted brand with over a century of luggage expertise, ensures the Freeform Carry-On is both functional and reliable. Testers appreciated its expandable panel, providing valuable extra space when needed. The Freeform Carry-On is available in an impressive 15 colors, offering a wide range of stylish choices. While its polypropylene shell contributes to its lightweight nature, it’s not as impact-resistant as polycarbonate. For travelers primarily focused on carry-on travel and seeking a lightweight, maneuverable, and internationally compliant suitcase, the Samsonite Freeform Carry-On is an excellent and best suitcase choice. It’s also available in medium and large checked sizes for those requiring more capacity.
Best Hardside Suitcase
Monos Carry-On Pro Plus: Premium Protection with Smart Features
The Monos Carry-On Pro Plus hardside suitcase in Olive Green, showcasing its durable polycarbonate shell and stylish, modern design.
Dimensions: 23 x 15 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8.4 pounds | Capacity: 46L | Colors: 13 | Warranty: Limited lifetime
Pros:
- Highly durable and virtually unbreakable polycarbonate shell
- Convenient exterior laptop pocket for easy access
- Smooth and quiet wheels
- TSA-approved locks for enhanced security
Cons:
- Telescoping handle can stick if overpacked
- Not ideal for extended trips due to capacity
The Monos Carry-On Pro Plus is the best hardside suitcase, renowned for its exceptional durability and thoughtful design. Its robust, unbreakable polycarbonate shell provides superior protection for your belongings, making it ideal for frequent travelers or those carrying fragile items. A standout feature is the built-in front compartment, perfectly sized to hold a 16-inch laptop, offering convenient access for security checks and on-the-go work. Testers were impressed by its overall durability and well-considered design details, including TSA-approved locks, quiet wheels, and vegan leather accents. Available in 13 stylish colors, the Monos Carry-On Pro Plus caters to discerning travelers seeking both protection and aesthetics. However, it’s worth noting that overpacking can cause the telescoping handle to stick. For longer trips, the Monos Check-In Medium offers a larger capacity while maintaining the same premium features. For those prioritizing hardside protection, smart design, and a sleek look in a carry-on size, the Monos Carry-On Pro Plus is undoubtedly a best suitcase choice in its category.
Best Softside Suitcase
Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On: Uncompromising Quality and Lifetime Guarantee
The Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On softside suitcase in Black, emphasizing its durable ballistic nylon construction and premium features.
Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 10 pounds | Capacity: 37-48L | Colors: 4 | Warranty: Lifetime
Pros:
- Exceptionally durable ballistic nylon exterior
- Unique built-in compression system maximizes packing space
- Unconditional lifetime warranty covering all damage
- Smooth and shock-absorbing wheels
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Limited color selection
The Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On is the best softside suitcase, distinguished by its unparalleled durability, innovative features, and industry-leading lifetime warranty. Constructed from robust ballistic nylon, it resists wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance. Briggs & Riley is renowned for its commitment to quality, and the Baseline Essential Carry-On exemplifies this. A key feature is the built-in compression system, which significantly increases packing capacity, allowing you to fit more items without exceeding carry-on size limits. Testers praised its smooth-rolling wheels and overall robust construction. The unconditional lifetime warranty is a major selling point, covering repairs for any damage, for the life of the bag, regardless of the cause. While it comes at a premium price, the Baseline Essential Carry-On represents a long-term investment in reliable travel gear. Available in classic colors, it prioritizes functionality and durability over trendy aesthetics. For travelers seeking the best in softside luggage, with a focus on quality, durability, and peace of mind, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On is the definitive best suitcase choice.
Best Lightweight Suitcase
Travelpro Maxlite 5: Featherlight and Functional for Effortless Travel
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 lightweight suitcase in Orchid Pink, showcasing its featherlight design and easy maneuverability.
Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 5.4 pounds | Capacity: 46L | Colors: 5 | Warranty: 5-year limited
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight, making lifting and maneuvering effortless
- Durable and stain-resistant polyester exterior
- Smooth-rolling wheels and comfortable telescoping handle
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Fewer interior pockets compared to other models
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 is the best lightweight suitcase, weighing in at just 5.4 pounds, making it exceptionally easy to lift and maneuver. Its lightweight design is particularly beneficial for travelers concerned about weight restrictions or those who prefer to avoid heavy luggage. Despite its light weight, it doesn’t compromise on durability, featuring a flexible yet structured polyester exterior treated with water and stain-resistant DuraGuard coating. Testers were amazed by its lightness and ease of maneuverability, praising its smooth-rolling wheels and comfortable ergonomic handle. The Maxlite 5 offers a generous 46L capacity, comparable to heavier suitcases, proving that lightweight doesn’t mean sacrificing packing space. It’s also one of the more affordable options in the Travelpro lineup, offering excellent value. While it has fewer interior pockets than some other suitcases, its lightweight design and functional features make it a top choice for travelers prioritizing ease of use and portability. For those seeking the best suitcase in terms of weight without compromising essential features, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 is an outstanding option. It is also available in medium and large checked sizes.
Best Aluminum Suitcase
Rimowa Original Cabin: Luxury and Legacy in Aluminum
The Rimowa Original Cabin aluminum suitcase in Silver, exemplifying its iconic design, durability, and luxurious appeal.
Dimensions: 21.7 x 15.8 x 9.1 inches | Weight: 9.5 pounds | Capacity: 34L | Colors: 5 | Warranty: Lifetime
Pros:
- Iconic and stylish anodized aluminum exterior
- Exceptionally durable and long-lasting construction
- Smooth and quiet wheels
- Lifetime warranty covering all damage
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Aluminum shell prone to denting
The Rimowa Original Cabin is the best aluminum suitcase, representing the epitome of luxury luggage. German-engineered and globally recognized for its craftsmanship and innovation, Rimowa suitcases are a statement of sophisticated travel. The Original Cabin features a distinctive anodized aluminum exterior, renowned for its durability and timeless style. While aluminum is more prone to denting than polycarbonate, it offers exceptional longevity and a unique aesthetic that develops character over time. Testers were particularly impressed by its smooth wheels, effortlessly gliding across various surfaces. Rimowa offers a lifetime guarantee, underscoring its commitment to quality and durability. The Original Cabin utilizes TSA-approved combination locks instead of zippers, adding to its security and distinctive design. While it comes with a premium price tag, the Rimowa Original Cabin is an investment in a suitcase that will last a lifetime, both in durability and style. For travelers seeking the best suitcase in luxury, durability, and iconic design, the Rimowa Original Cabin is unparalleled. For a lighter and more affordable Rimowa option, consider the Essential Lite Cabin with a polycarbonate shell.
Best Compact Suitcase
Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner: Chic and Compact for Short Trips
The Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner compact suitcase in Rosewood, highlighting its lightweight and space-saving design for weekend travel.
Dimensions: 21.6 x 13.8 x 8.3 inches | Weight: 4.8 pounds | Capacity: Not listed | Colors: 4 | Warranty: 2-year limited global
Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight and compact design
- Stylish and sophisticated French design
- Weather-resistant nylon exterior
- Padded handles for comfortable lifting
Cons:
- Limited packing capacity, best for short trips
- Not ideal for over-packers
The Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner is the best compact suitcase, perfect for short weekend getaways and travelers who prioritize minimalist packing. French brand Lipault is known for its chic and lightweight designs, and the Plume Cabin Size Spinner exemplifies this. Slightly smaller than a standard carry-on, it’s incredibly easy to lift and stow in overhead bins, making airport navigation seamless. Its sophisticated nylon shell is weather-resistant and available in tasteful, eye-catching colors like Rosewood and Smashed Pumpkin. Testers appreciated its compact size and stylish aesthetic, noting it’s ideal for those who prefer sleek, minimalist luggage. While its smaller size means strategic packing is necessary, it’s a perfect choice for 2-3 day trips where space is a premium. If you tend to overpack or need to bring bulky items, this might not be the best suitcase for you. However, for travelers seeking the best suitcase in terms of compact size, lightweight design, and stylish aesthetics for short trips, the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner is an excellent choice.
Best Stylish Suitcase
Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus: Sustainable Style for the Conscious Traveler
The Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus stylish suitcase in Safari Green, showcasing its sophisticated design and eco-conscious materials in a travel setting.
Dimensions: 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 8.5 pounds | Capacity: 46.6L | Colors: 7 | Warranty: 10-year limited
Pros:
- Stylish and sophisticated design with a timeless aesthetic
- Eco-friendly construction using recycled materials
- Smooth wheels and comfortable handle grip
- Durable and sturdy build
Cons:
- Fewer built-in interior pockets compared to some
The Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus is the best stylish suitcase, appealing to travelers who value both aesthetics and sustainability. Paravel has quickly gained popularity for its commitment to creating carbon-neutral luggage using recycled materials, like Negative Nylon made from recycled plastic bottles and aluminum. The Aviator Carry-On Plus embodies this eco-conscious approach without sacrificing style or functionality. Its timeless design is both sophisticated and durable, with a textured finish that conceals scuffs and markings. Testers praised its smooth wheels and comfortable vegan leather-wrapped handle. While some design-forward suitcases can feel flimsy, the Aviator Carry-On Plus is notably sturdy and well-built. It includes practical features like a compression board and laundry bag. While it may have fewer built-in interior pockets compared to some, its stylish design, durable construction, and commitment to sustainability make it a standout choice. For travelers seeking the best suitcase that combines style, eco-consciousness, and reliable performance, the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus is an exceptional option. A larger, checked size is also available for longer trips.
Best Luggage Set
July Classic Family Luggage Set: Coordinated Convenience for Families and Frequent Flyers
The July Classic Family Luggage Set in Navy and Clay, demonstrating the nested design and coordinated style of this versatile luggage collection.
Dimensions: (Carry-On) 21.5 x 15 x 8.5 in, (Checked) 26 x 18.75 x 11 in, (Checked Plus) 30.25 x 19.75 x 12.5 in | Capacity: 232L (combined) | Colors: 11 | Warranty: Lifetime
Pros:
- Comprehensive set of three sizes for all trip lengths
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Smooth-rolling wheels and retractable handles
- Space-saving nested storage design
Cons:
- Lighter build might not be ideal for extremely rugged travel
The July Classic Family Luggage Set is the best luggage set, offering a coordinated and convenient solution for families or frequent travelers who need luggage for various trip lengths. Australian brand July excels in creating lightweight and functional luggage, and this set includes a Carry-On, Checked, and Checked Plus suitcase. The variety of sizes accommodates everything from weekend getaways to extended vacations. Purchasing a set is often more economical than buying individual pieces, making it a smart choice for those needing multiple suitcases. Testers found the July Carry-On slim, lightweight, and easy to maneuver. The entire set features smooth-rolling wheels, retractable handles, laundry bags, and TSA locks. Available in a range of unique colors, the July Classic Family Set offers both style and practicality. A significant advantage is their nested design, allowing all three suitcases to be stored within each other, saving valuable storage space. For families or frequent travelers seeking the best suitcase set that provides versatility, convenience, and coordinated style, the July Classic Family Luggage Set is an excellent investment.
Best Duffel Bag (as a Suitcase Alternative)
Calpak Luka Duffel: Versatile and Organized for On-the-Go Travel
The Calpak Luka Duffel bag in Chocolate, highlighting its lightweight design, multiple pockets, and comfortable carry handles.
Dimensions: 12 x 16 x 8 inches | Weight: 2 pounds | Capacity: 22L | Colors: 7 | Warranty: 5-year limited
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and easy to carry
- Weather-resistant nylon exterior
- Numerous pockets, including a dedicated shoe compartment
- Comfortable and soft carry handles
Cons:
- Lacks wheels, not ideal for those who prefer rolling luggage
The Calpak Luka Duffel is the best duffel bag for travel, offering a lightweight and highly organized alternative to traditional suitcases. For travelers who prefer duffel bags or need a versatile carry-on option, the Luka Duffel excels. It’s incredibly lightweight at just 2 pounds and constructed from weather-resistant polyester to protect your belongings. A standout feature is its nine pockets, providing exceptional organization, including a dedicated shoe compartment. Testers praised its numerous pockets for keeping items organized and easily accessible during airport travel. The soft and cushioned handles are exceptionally comfortable, even when the bag is fully packed. Available in a variety of stylish colors, the Luka Duffel is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. While it lacks wheels, its lightweight design and comfortable carry handles make it easy to transport. For travelers seeking the best suitcase alternative in a duffel bag format, with a focus on lightweight design, organization, and comfortable carry, the Calpak Luka Duffel is an outstanding choice.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Travel Companion
Selecting the best suitcase for travel is a personal decision, dependent on your individual needs and travel style. This comprehensive guide, based on rigorous testing and expert evaluation, offers a range of top-performing suitcases across various categories. Whether you prioritize durability, style, capacity, weight, or specific features like hardside protection or softside flexibility, there’s a best suitcase on this list to match your requirements. Investing in quality luggage is an investment in smoother, more enjoyable travel experiences. Consider your typical trip length, packing habits, and travel preferences to determine which suitcase from this curated selection will be your ideal travel companion in 2025 and beyond. By choosing wisely, you can ensure your luggage enhances, rather than hinders, your adventures.
