Choosing the right luggage for international travel goes beyond just finding something stylish and comfortable to carry. International flights often come with strict cabin size restrictions, making your luggage choice a crucial part of your travel planning. While the generally accepted international carry-on size is around 22 x 15 x 10 inches, it’s always best to confirm the specific dimensions with your airline to avoid any last-minute gate check surprises.
To simplify your search, we’ve rigorously tested 15 different suitcases across various international airlines to identify the best luggage for international travel. After months of real-world testing across continents, our editors have compiled a list of top performers. These recommendations include standout models like the Away Carry-On Flex, the July Checked, and the Samsonite Elevation Plus Softside Large Spinner, ensuring you find the perfect travel companion for your next global adventure.
After extensive testing of numerous carry-on, checked, and lightweight luggage options, we focused on two key criteria to refine our selections for international travel. For carry-on luggage, we prioritized suitcases 22 inches or shorter to comply with international cabin restrictions. For checked luggage, durability was paramount, ensuring suitcases could withstand the rigors of international baggage handling. Below are our top recommendations for the best luggage for international travel, categorized to help you find exactly what you need.
Best Hardside Carry-On Luggage
Away: Durable and Versatile Hardside Carry-On
Away The Carry-On Flex
Forbes Vetted Rating: 5.0/5
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.7 x 9 inches
- Weight: 7.9 pounds
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Capacity: 39.8 liters
- Colors: 10 options
- Warranty: 100-day return, limited lifetime warranty
Pros:
- Ideal size for international carry-on standards
- Expands an extra 2.5 inches for added packing space
- Lightweight construction
Cons:
- None significant
The Away Carry-On Flex excels as a top choice for international travelers seeking a hardside carry-on. It’s not only stylish and lightweight but also constructed from a robust polycarbonate material, ensuring your belongings remain protected throughout your journey. A standout feature is its expandability; offering an extra 2.5 inches of space, it’s exceptionally generous compared to other expandable carry-ons. When unexpanded, its 21.7-inch height fits comfortably within most international cabin size limits. Away luggage is renowned for its smooth-rolling wheels, providing effortless maneuverability, and it offers excellent value within the hardside luggage market.
Tester’s Verdict: “The organizational features are fantastic; unpacking and repacking was a breeze,” notes Forbes Vetted deputy editor Kari Molvar after testing the Away Carry-On Flex on a trip to Stockholm. “The expandable feature and compression system made it surprisingly spacious for a 5-6 day trip. Its durability is also noteworthy – it handled being tossed around and wheeled over various surfaces without any issues.”
Best Softside Carry-On Luggage
Briggs & Riley: Premium Softside for Frequent International Flyers
Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22-Inch Carry-On Spinner
Forbes Vetted Rating: 5.0/5
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
- Weight: 10 pounds
- Material: Ballistic nylon
- Capacity: 48 liters
- Colors: 4 options
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Pros:
- Extremely durable exterior and smooth wheels
- Compression system for maximizing packing space
- Exceptional lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Higher price point
For those seeking a long-term investment in luggage, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22-inch Carry-On Spinner stands out. Though pricier than other options, this luxury suitcase justifies its cost with premium features. It boasts ultra-durable ballistic nylon, designed to withstand even the most demanding travel conditions. The external handle design maximizes interior packing space, and a unique compression system expands upwards rather than outwards, further increasing capacity. For formal wear, it includes a tri-fold garment holder, ideal for suits and dresses.
Tester’s Verdict: “The storage capacity and ease of movement were outstanding,” reports Forbes Vetted editor Luke Fater, after testing the suitcase on a five-day trip. “The ballistic nylon feels incredibly resistant to wear and tear, and the telescoping handle is exceptionally comfortable with multiple height settings. The spinner wheels are incredibly smooth, and despite rigorous use, it shows no signs of scuffing or scratches.”
Best Value Carry-On Luggage
Amazon Basics: Affordable and Functional Carry-On for Occasional Travelers
Amazon Basics 21-Inch Expandable Spinner
Forbes Vetted Rating: 4.0/5
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: 20.9 x 13.6 x 9.5 inches
- Weight: 7.7 pounds
- Material: ABS plastic
- Capacity: 40 liters
- Colors: 4 options
- Warranty: One-year warranty
Pros:
- International cabin-compliant size
- Very affordable
- Lightweight design
Cons:
- ABS plastic less durable than other hardside materials
For budget-conscious travelers who only fly occasionally, the Amazon Basics 21-Inch Expandable Spinner is a practical choice. Priced under $100, it’s constructed from thick ABS plastic that offers adequate protection for carry-on use. While not the lightest in our selection, at under 8 pounds, it remains easy to handle and maneuver. Its compact 20.9-inch height ensures compliance with nearly all international airline carry-on restrictions.
Tester’s Verdict: “This suitcase was perfect for our recent international family trip and has held up remarkably well,” shares Forbes Vetted deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala. “Its lightweight design is manageable even for my 6-year-old, and the telescoping handle adjusts to comfortable heights for both of us.”
Best Medium Checked Luggage
July: Stylish and Reliable Checked Luggage
July Checked
Forbes Vetted Rating: 4.5/5
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: 26 x 18.75 x 11 inches
- Weight: 8.3 pounds
- Capacity: 80 liters
- Colors: 11 options
- Warranty: 100-day returns, lifetime warranty (manufacturing defects)
Pros:
- Durable hardshell protection
- Stylish design with diverse color options
- Interior pockets and laundry bag included
Cons:
- Aluminum corners prone to scratches
The July Checked is an excellent medium-sized hardside checked bag that balances durability and style. Constructed from aerospace-grade German polycarbonate with reinforced aluminum corners, it’s built to endure international travel. Its exceptionally quiet 360-degree spinner wheels navigate various surfaces, including cobblestones, with ease. Features include a Y-strap compression system and a hidden laundry bag. Remarkably lightweight for a checked bag, it weighs just over 8 pounds.
Tester’s Verdict: “Having used Away luggage previously, I found the July Checked very comparable in quality,” says Forbes Vetted deputy editor Jane Sung, who tested it on a trip to Paris. “The reinforced corners add a layer of durability where it’s most needed. After a two-week trip involving planes, trains, and cars, it returned with minimal scratches. The dark Forest color likely helps conceal scuffs, but I was impressed with its scratch resistance.”
Best Medium Softside Checked Luggage
Travelpro: Pilot-Preferred Durable Softside Option
Travelpro Maxlite 5 25-Inch Medium Expandable Spinner
Forbes Vetted Rating: 4.5/5
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: 27 x 18.5 x 11.5 inches
- Weight: 6.8 pounds
- Material: Polyester with DuraGuard coating
- Capacity: 95 liters
- Colors: 11 options
- Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
Pros:
- Durable, weather and tear-resistant polyester
- Ergonomic, comfortable handle
- Extremely lightweight
Cons:
- Single interior compartment
Travelpro luggage is a long-standing favorite among flight crews globally, valued for its durability, comfortable handling, and smooth wheels. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 25-Inch Medium Expandable Spinner is exceptionally lightweight, under 7 pounds, making it effortless to manage. Its defining feature is the weather-resistant and tear-resistant polyester exterior with DuraGuard coating, ensuring your luggage withstands international travel rigors.
Tester’s Verdict: “I was amazed at how light this suitcase is, especially given its generous size,” remarks Forbes Vetted executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers. “The fabric and zippers feel robust and well-stitched, indicating long-term durability. Even after multiple flights, it showed no visible marks or scuffs, and the wheels rolled smoothly throughout.”
Best Large Checked Luggage
Béis: Spacious and Well-Designed Large Checked Option
Béis The Large Check-In Roller
Forbes Vetted Rating: 4.5/5
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: 31.3 x 19.6 x 12.6 inches
- Weight: 11.84 pounds
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Capacity: 112 liters
- Colors: 15 options
- Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
Pros:
- Integrated weight indicator to avoid overweight fees
- Expansive capacity with 2-inch expandability
- Comfortable, cushioned handle
Cons:
- Heavier than some alternatives
The Béis The Large Check-In Roller is a top-rated large hardside checked bag, especially useful for international airlines with strict weight limits. It features a built-in weight indicator, alerting you when your bag exceeds 50 pounds. An expander zipper adds 2 inches of extra packing space. Despite its large size, smooth-rolling wheels and a cushioned handle ensure easy handling. The durable hardshell exterior is available in a variety of stylish colors.
Tester’s Verdict: “The weight indicator is a fantastic feature, providing reassurance against overweight baggage fees,” notes former Forbes Vetted contributor Noorie Deolall-Antoine, who tested it on a Caribbean trip. “The zippers are smooth and reliable, and the interior organization and pockets are excellent, allowing for efficient compression and organization of items.”
Best Large Softside Checked Luggage
Samsonite: Robust and Well-Built Softside for Heavy Packers
Samsonite Elevation Plus Softside Large Spinner
Forbes Vetted Rating: 4.5/5
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: 29.8 x 20 x 11.5 inches
- Weight: 10 pounds
- Material: Recycled polyester
- Capacity: Not listed
- Colors: 3 options
- Warranty: Limited 10-year warranty
Pros:
- Smooth wheels, unaffected by weight
- Reinforced, sturdy handles
- Ample interior storage and AirTag pocket
Cons:
- Limited color choices
The Samsonite Elevation Plus Softside Large Spinner is a robust and spacious softside suitcase ideal for travelers needing significant packing capacity. Weighing just 10 pounds, it’s surprisingly lightweight for its size. It features exceptionally smooth-rolling wheels that perform well even when fully packed, and reinforced handles ensure durability. The interior offers generous storage, including a dedicated AirTag pocket. More affordable than many hardside options, its durable polyester exterior is designed to resist rips and tears.
Tester’s Verdict: Forbes Vetted director Madeline Kaufman, who tested this suitcase on a 10-day trip, highlights its wheels and thoughtful features. “The wheels are incredibly smooth – they actually seemed to roll better with more weight. Overall, it feels very sturdy and well-constructed. The abundant storage, especially the large dirty laundry bag, was a standout feature for me.”
Best Trunk Luggage
Away: Spacious Trunk for Extended International Trips
Away The Trunk
Forbes Vetted Rating: 4.5/5
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: 31.3 x 17 x 13.7 inches
- Weight: 12.3 pounds
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Capacity: 107 liters
- Colors: 14 options
- Warranty: 100-day return, limited lifetime warranty
Pros:
- Smooth-rolling wheels, even when heavily loaded
- Durable hardshell construction
- Ideal shape for bulky or oddly shaped items
Cons:
- Maneuverability may be challenging for shorter individuals
For extended international trips, the Away The Trunk offers substantial packing space. Its elongated trunk design with a 30/70 split provides deep storage, accommodating large quantities of clothing, shoes, and unconventional items. The durable polycarbonate shell ensures your belongings are well-protected.
Tester’s Verdict: Home and kitchen editor Sholeen Damarwala used the Away The Trunk on multiple long trips this year. “Its shape didn’t pose any issues, and it was surprisingly easy to maneuver around airports. The wheels are excellent, and the zippers are robust. Despite its size, it’s relatively lightweight, allowing me to manage both the suitcase and a toddler with ease.”
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Why Trust Forbes Vetted for Luggage Recommendations
Forbes Vetted has a long-standing commitment to providing travelers with well-researched and reliable luggage advice. We have published numerous luggage guides, covering everything from suitcases to weekender bags, duffel bags, and carry-on backpacks.
This guide was authored by Forbes Vetted senior travel editor Astrid Taran, a seasoned travel expert with eight years of industry experience and visits to over 40 countries. Astrid has written extensively on luggage for Forbes Vetted, including guides to the best luggage overall and the best carry-on luggage. Traveling at least twice a month, often with different suitcases, she has firsthand experience with many of the models recommended here.
Our luggage recommendations are regularly updated to ensure they remain current and accurate, reflecting the best options available. We consistently review product pricing and specifications.
How We Selected the Best Luggage for International Travel
Our recommendations for the best international travel luggage are based on a combination of expert insights, independent research, user reviews, and extensive personal testing.
For this guide, Forbes Vetted editors and staff tested 15 suitcases from leading brands like Away, Samsonite, and Travelpro. These suitcases were tested on international trips throughout the summer and fall of 2024. Upon their return, testers provided detailed feedback on each suitcase’s performance and standout qualities.
We considered various size categories, focusing on carry-on suitcases under 22 inches and checked bags built for maximum durability. Our testing process included packing suitcases to full capacity to assess storage, rigorously testing zippers and handles, weighing each suitcase, and evaluating maneuverability across different terrains. Testers also assessed weather resistance and overall durability in diverse climates.
We prioritized brands with strong reputations, including established names like Samsonite and Travelpro alongside newer, popular brands such as July and Béis.
Key Considerations When Choosing Luggage for International Travel
When purchasing luggage for international travel, several factors are crucial, from size and weight restrictions to durability and warranty.
Size Restrictions for International Flights
Carry-on luggage for international flights must adhere to specific size limits. The international standard is approximately 22 x 15 x 10 inches, but always verify with your specific airline. For example, Qatar Airways has stricter guidelines of 20 x 15 x 10 inches. Staying within a 22-inch height limit generally ensures compliance with most international airlines.
Weight Limits for Checked Baggage
International airlines also impose weight restrictions on checked baggage, typically around 50 pounds. Confirm the exact limit with your airline before traveling. Opting for lightweight luggage, like the Travelpro Maxlite 5 25-Inch Expandable Spinner, can help you maximize your packing weight allowance. Our guide to the best lightweight luggage offers further recommendations.
Durability for International Travel
International travel puts luggage through considerable handling. Durability is essential, particularly for checked bags. Hardside polycarbonate suitcases, such as the July Checked and Béis The Large Check-In Roller, and softside suitcases made from robust materials like polyester (Travelpro Maxlite 5) or ballistic nylon (Briggs & Riley Baseline) offer superior protection.
Warranty and Brand Reputation
Choosing luggage from brands with strong warranties provides peace of mind. The Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On, for example, offers a lifetime guarantee, adding significant value to your investment. Consider brands known for quality and customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Standard Luggage Size for International Travel?
The standard international carry-on size is approximately 22 inches tall, 15 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, including handles and wheels. Checked bag size limits typically involve a maximum weight of 50-70 pounds and a linear dimension limit (length + width + height) of 62 inches.
Hardside vs. Softside Luggage: Which is Better for International Travel?
Hardside luggage generally offers superior durability and weather resistance, making it ideal for protecting fragile items. Softside luggage provides more flexibility and external pockets for easy access. The best choice depends on your travel style and priorities. Refer to our detailed comparison of hardside vs. softside luggage for more information.
What is the Best Material for International Travel Luggage?
Polycarbonate is often considered the best material for hardside international travel luggage due to its lightweight durability. Ballistic nylon is an excellent choice for softside luggage, offering strength, water resistance, and flexibility.
