In an era where every dollar saved is a step closer to your next adventure, the cost of travel essentials, like luggage, can quickly escalate. Whether you're a globe-trotter or a weekend wanderer, wise spending on luggage is key to ensuring that your hard-earned money goes toward unforgettable experiences rather than unnecessary expenses.
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In this article, we'll unveil the best time to buy luggage, shedding light on a facet of travel preparation that many overlook. It's astonishing how much money you can retain by simply being aware of when is the best time to buy luggage. We'll guide you through the art of timing your luggage acquisitions, and a cost-effective approach to gearing up for your journeys.
When it comes to securing unbeatable deals on luggage, having an overall understanding of the luggage buying cycle is essential. But what exactly does this term mean? Well, just like the changing seasons influence our wardrobe choices, every product experiences a distinct buying pattern, and luggage is no exception.
Imagine this: You're eyeing a heavy-duty suitcase. Buying it during the summer months might leave you with a hefty bill, as the demand for such items soars. On the flip side, opting to purchase it in the winter, even if you won't be jet-setting immediately, can translate to substantial savings – often up to a remarkable 70 percent off the regular price.
But this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to understanding the luggage buying cycle. In the world of luggage, this cycle comprises various intricate components, all of which significantly influence price points and demand trends. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve deep into the nuances of this buying cycle, shedding light on what drives luggage prices and when the demand for luggage typically peaks.
Unlocking the secrets of the luggage buying cycle can potentially lead to substantial financial savings and more informed purchasing decisions. Whether you're a frequent traveler or planning your dream vacation, this knowledge can be your ultimate ally in making the most cost-effective choices for your luggage needs.
When it comes to making the most of your savings, timing can be everything. Understanding how different seasons affect luggage prices can be your ticket to scoring fantastic deals.
High Price Seasons
Let's kick things off by exploring the seasons when luggage prices tend to soar. Avoiding purchases during these periods can save you a substantial amount of money.
Summer Season
While it's tempting to shop for luggage when you're gearing up for your summer escapades, be aware that prices often skyrocket due to high demand. Consider holding off on your purchase until prices cool down.
Holiday Rush
Holidays like Christmas, New Year's Eve, and Thanksgiving bring joy and togetherness, but they also bring higher luggage prices. As travelers gear up for holiday getaways, the demand for luggage surges, and so do the prices. Be patient and wait for the post-holiday lull to grab your luggage at a more wallet-friendly rate.
Trends or Events
Major events like the Olympics and FIFA World Cup can put a hefty premium on luggage. If you're planning to attend or travel during these events, it's a wise move to pre-purchase your luggage well in advance to avoid the peak price hike.
Low Price Seasons
Now, let's turn our attention to the seasons and scenarios that can substantially reduce luggage prices, allowing you to save big.
Off-Pick Traveling time
When the peak travel season winds down, luggage prices often follow suit. Keep an eye out for the post-summer and post-holiday periods to score remarkable deals on luggage. It's a tried-and-true strategy for savvy shoppers.
Back-to-School Promotions
As schools open their doors, many retailers roll out enticing discounts and promotions to attract students and teachers. If you're part of this demographic, consider taking advantage of these offers to invest in a quality bag without breaking the bank.
Shop School Bags and Teacher Bags.
Post-Holiday sale
After the holiday festivities wind down, stores and corporations seek to clear their shelves to make room for new inventory, especially for vintage bags. This is the perfect opportunity to snag a stylish, discounted piece of luggage.
What Month Is Best to Buy a Suitcase?
When it comes to travel, a trusty suitcase is a constant companion, but did you know that its price tag can fluctuate significantly throughout the year? Whether you're a business person, a dedicated office worker, or a sports enthusiast, suitcases are an integral part of our lives, and making savvy purchasing decisions can translate into substantial savings.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday Bonanzas
If you're eyeing a new suitcase, November is your month to shine. The retail world comes alive with Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, offering outstanding discounts on luggage of all shapes and sizes.
These shopping extravaganzas are renowned for their unbeatable bargains, making it the perfect time to score a top-quality suitcase without breaking the bank.
Online Retailers: Your Wallet's Best Friend
In today's digital age, shopping for suitcases has never been easier. Online platforms and dedicated websites often roll out fantastic suitcase deals that combine affordability with exceptional quality. Keep an eagle eye on these platforms, and you might stumble upon a suitcase gem at an incredibly wallet-friendly price.
By strategically timing your suitcase purchases, you can maximize your savings without compromising on the luggage's durability and style.
In today's digital age, the world of shopping has transformed, offering consumers the convenience of making purchases either within the confines of a physical store or from the comfort of their own homes.
With both options presenting a range of advantages and disadvantages, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons to determine which suits your budget and preferences best.
Online Shopping
Online shopping has revolutionized the way we procure goods, and luggage is no exception. Here are some compelling reasons why you might consider the online route:
Pros
Cons
In-store Shopping
Turning our attention to in-store luggage shopping, it offers a more tangible experience with immediate gratification, but it's not without its drawbacks.
Pros
Cons
Ultimately, the preference between online and in-store shopping hinges on your unique circumstances and priorities. It's worth noting that, in general, online shopping tends to be more budget-friendly.
As you embark on your shopping journey, consider your needs, preferences, and the trade-offs each avenue presents, and remember that your choice can impact both your savings and your shopping satisfaction.
In the ever-evolving world of fashion and functionality, keeping pace with the latest luggage releases is a savvy move for both the style-conscious traveler and the budget-savvy explorer.
But when exactly do those fresh, eye-catching luggage collections make their debut? Is it a seasonal affair, an all-year extravaganza, or a special event bonanza? We're here to break it all down for you, in terms that are as accessible as your favorite suitcase handle.
Summer
Ah, summer – the season of sun-soaked adventures and wanderlust-fueled escapades. This is the time when luggage brands are keenly aware that travelers are itching to explore.
Consequently, they unleash a flurry of new luggage collections, showcasing updated designs and innovative features. If you're one to chase the hottest trends while jet-setting, keep an eye out for summer releases – your perfect travel companion might just be waiting.
Shop Cute Travel Bags and Luxury Travel Bags.
Fall
As summer recedes, fall ushers in a different kind of frenzy. Students flock back to school, and luggage becomes a hot commodity. Brands, recognizing this surge in demand, often introduce unique baggies tailored to the back-to-school crowd.
It's not just students, though; fall also marks a time when some specific travelers gear up for upcoming journeys. For many college students, it's the exciting start of a new chapter with a fresh set of luggage or college bags.
All-Year Release
While some brands adhere to seasonal rhythms, others take a different route, opting for a year-round release strategy.
These collections may not always boast the same level of uniqueness as their seasonal counterparts, but they are perfect for those seeking budget-friendly options. If you're more inclined to invest in your travels than your luggage, these all-year-round releases could be your go-to choice.
Events and Collabs
If you're the type who craves unique styles and enjoys the charisma of celebrity or sports collaborations, keep an eagle eye on special events and brand partnerships. Luggage launches tied to events like the World Cup or MMA finals are not uncommon.
Additionally, major brands often team up with renowned celebrities and athletes to create one-of-a-kind luggage pieces. If you want luggage that not only carries your belongings but also carries a touch of star power, these are the releases you'll want to watch out for.
When it comes to investing in luggage, understanding the lifespan of your suitcase is paramount. No one wants their travel plans derailed by a luggage malfunction mid-journey.
Suitcase longevity isn't just about luck; it's influenced by several key factors that savvy travelers should consider. From the quality of the suitcase to your travel frequency and maintenance habits, let's dive into the secrets of maximizing the life of your travel companion.
Quality
The cornerstone of suitcase longevity is its quality. Robust, well-crafted suitcases are constructed from sturdy materials and are built to withstand the rigors of travel. Investing in a high-quality suitcase can save you from the hassle of frequent replacements.
On the flip side, mass-produced, budget-friendly luggage may be tempting for limited use, but it won't hold up to the demands of regular travel.
Frequency of usage
The more you travel, the more wear and tear your suitcase will endure. Frequent flyers should prioritize durable luggage that can withstand the hustle and bustle of airports, train stations, and various modes of transport. If you're an occasional traveler, a less expensive suitcase may suffice for your needs.
Travel Condition
Consider the environments you'll be navigating. Rough terrains and harsh conditions can take a toll on your suitcase's lifespan. When heading into challenging environments, opt for a suitcase that's up to the task, with reinforced construction and materials designed to endure the elements.
Maintenance
Properly caring for your suitcase can significantly extend its life. Regularly clean and dust your luggage, and store it in a secure place when not in use. This simple maintenance routine can keep even regular quality luggage in pristine condition for years.
In the pursuit of preserving your hard-earned money, your choice of luggage can make a substantial difference. In this article, I've detailed the best time of year to buy luggage and shared strategies for securing a great deal.
By making savvy luggage choices, you can allocate your funds where they truly matter – on accommodations and culinary experiences during your travels. So, plan your journey wisely and ensure your money is spent on unforgettable moments, not on your luggage.
Key Takeaways
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This carry-on offers amazing durability and maneuverability at an unbeatable price point.
There are no external pockets, and the handle is a bit wobbly.
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Since the Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner exceeded our expectations at every turn when we first tested it two years ago, we recently tested another to make sure the suitcase still meets our standards — and it does. Designed to meet the carry-on restrictions of most major airlines, it’s constructed of extra-thick ABS plastic with a textured, scratch-resistant finish. We were amazed that it survived our durability tests unscathed in a show of function and form that suggests excellent value for money. "Even after whacking it pretty aggressively with a baseball bat, this bag stood up to scuffs and scratches beautifully," says T+L senior editor Jasmine Grant. "The few imperfections that I did notice after the bat test were easily buffed out by rubbing them gently with my finger."
The suitcase’s fully lined interior features cross-straps on one side and a divider panel on the other. This panel includes three zippered pockets perfect for stashing smaller items. We were able to fit everything on our packing list inside with ease, even without employing the expansion feature, but you can also expand it for 25 percent more space, providing plenty of room for any souvenirs you might pick up on your trip.
We were also impressed by the carry-on’s maneuverability. With four double spinner wheels and a telescoping handle, it was easy to push and pull over rough and smooth surfaces, turned nicely through our obstacle course, and handled bumps well — though the handle was wobbly at times. Color choices are fairly limited, but include navy blue, light blue, black, and orange.
The Details: Carry-on | 21.7 x 14.8 x 10 inches | 6.83 pounds | 41-liter capacity | Expandable | ABS, polyester
Why We Love ItThis suitcase is cavernous yet easy to maneuver despite its large size.
As is to be expected in a suitcase of this size, it handled better on smooth surfaces than when hauled over gravel.
If you’re looking for a sturdy hardside option for your next family trip or extended international vacation, we love the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds 28-inch Checked Spinner. It’s made of durable yet lightweight ABS plastic, with molded corner guards for extra impact resistance. We found that it stood up well to our durability tests, despite sustaining a few scuffs around the edges. The interior is fully lined, with cross-straps on one side and a zippered divider that essentially creates two separate packing spaces.
We found it deceptively spacious and could easily have fit enough clothes and extras for a month-long trip. Organization was good thanks to a hanging accessory pocket, and the multidirectional spinner wheels and retractable handle made for easy, 360-degree mobility even around tight corners. The lightweight trolley system also gives you a little extra leeway before exceeding airline weight restrictions. We loved the suitcase’s modern, sleek look. Choose from a range of colors including black and rose gold.
The Details: Checked suitcase | 29.5 x 20.5 x 11.8 inches | 9.6 pounds | ABS, PC, polyester
Why We Love ItIts four dual spinner wheels glided like butter on both two and four wheels and on all surfaces, such as carpet and concrete.
The suitcase isn't expandable and lacks internal organizational features.
Crafted from eco-friendly recycled polycarbonate, this hardside carry-on impressed us with its sleek look and incredible maneuverability. Its four dual spinner wheels glided like butter, even when fully packed, on both two and four wheels and on all kinds of surfaces including concrete and carpet. Even its handle, which has three different height settings, locked smoothly. While its exterior feels incredibly sturdy, surviving a couple of rounds with our baseball bat virtually unscathed, the carry-on still manages to be lightweight, clocking in at just over 6 pounds.
The interior features two roomy zippered compartments, although we wish there were a few additional pockets to better organize our essentials. The zippers overall ran smooth, and we appreciated the extra details like TSA-approved locks and ergonomic lift handles.
The Details: Carry-on | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 6.48 pounds | 45.43-liter capacity | Recycled polycarbonate
Why We Love ItIt's so much more spacious than it looks and is the most lightweight suitcase on this list.
The handle wobbles slightly when in use.
Don't let this Delsey carry-on's small stature fool you — it's built to haul plenty of items from points A to B. We were able to fit everything on our packing list (including multiple outfits, toiletries, and shoes) with ease. While this bag doesn't have an expander, it does have quite a bit of give, which allows for a few extra items. It's also equipped with compression straps and an internal pocket for added space and organization.
Weighing 5.7 pounds, this bag is the most lightweight suitcase on this list, which is ideal for overpackers whose luggage tends to exceed weight limits at the airport. And despite its weight, it actually performed beautifully through all our lab tests — from rolling seamlessly over multiple surfaces to getting tossed around and whacked with a baseball bat without a scratch or dent. While the handle seemed to wobble a bit as we wheeled the bag around, it remained intact through our tests and fully supported the weight of the bag.
The Details: Carry-on | 21.75 x 13.5 x 9 inches | 5.7 pounds | 43.3-liter capacity | ABS/polycarbonate blend
This underseater stood out for its exceptional organization features, quality construction, and flawless maneuverability.
It was a tight squeeze to fit the suitcase into our simulated underseat area, so it could be too large for smaller planes.
Designed to fit under most airline seats and small enough to qualify as a personal item, the Samsonite Spinner Underseater impressed us with its good looks and quality materials. We liked the smart color choices, too, which range from jet black to ocean or purple. Organization is a highlight, with front and side pockets for storing items you want to keep within easy reach and a spacious main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve that holds devices up to 13.3 inches. We were able to fit everything on our list for a two-day trip, even without compression straps.
The front pocket includes an organizer panel with slots for your credit cards and pens. And there’s a USB port for on-the-go charging (although you’ll need to purchase a power bank separately). We found the underseater amazingly easy to maneuver through our obstacle course thanks to its multidirectional spinner wheels and retractable, locking handle. It rolled smoothly and was light enough to pick up by the top handle for seamless transitions between stairs, escalators, and rougher terrains.
The Details: Carry-on | 16.5 x 13.8 x 9 inches | 5.6 pounds | USB charging port | Polyester
Why We Love ItThis garment bag is easy to operate and comfortable to carry using the heavy-duty handles.
The length is a little too short for longer dresses, and we would have liked a few more pockets.
The Misslo Gusseted Travel Garment Bag is made from a breathable, nonwoven fabric that feels somewhat flimsy but is actually thicker than similar budget options we’ve seen. It’s best suited to light travel and is not water resistant. We loved the bag’s straightforwardness, though. It took less than a minute to pack, folds in half easily, and boasts sturdy carry handles that are comfortable even after an extended period of time. You can also pack the folded garment bag into your checked luggage.
There’s a hole in the top for up to five clothes hangers for easy storage at your destination. We were able to fit two dresses, a dress shirt, dress pants, a suit jacket, and a belt with space leftover, although we had to fold long dresses awkwardly to fit them in (but there are longer versions available). There is a single clear plastic, zippered accessory pocket; ideally, we’d add a few more. We liked the clear window for viewing contents, though.
The Details: 43 x 22.6 x 3.5 inches | 7.8 ounces
Why We Love ItThis backpack is lightweight, impressively water resistant, and offers pockets for every purpose.
You will need to purchase a separate power bank if you want to use the integrated USB port.
The Tzowla Travel Laptop Backpack is made from durable 300-denier nylon, which held up impressively in the pouring rain. It’s much more spacious than similar backpacks we own yet lighter and less bulky when fully loaded. We loved its many pockets, including a padded section for laptops of up to 15.6 inches and double-sided pockets for your water bottle and umbrella. There’s even an organizer in the zippered front pocket with slots for your pens and a dedicated key fob.
Our favorite features include the integrated USB and headphone ports, and the combination zipper lock. We felt the lock was a particularly thoughtful touch considering the backpack is designed for carrying valuable tech. There’s even a small zippered compartment on the back of the bag for keeping valuables safely against your body when you’re in an area prone to pickpocketing. Finally, we found the backpack extremely comfortable thanks to wide, padded shoulder straps with a breathable mesh lining.
The Details: Carry-on | 20 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | 1.8 pounds | USB and headphone ports | Polyester
Why We Love ItThis backpack folds up into a tiny square so you can easily pack it into a larger suitcase if you need an extra bag.
There is no padding or structure to this backpack because of how lightweight it is.
You never know when you may need an extra bag on your travels, and this Osprey backpack folds into a compact square that you can pack inside a suitcase or weekender. "This backpack takes up no room at all inside another bag, and you'd be able to pack this anywhere — even in your pocket," says T+L testing editor Jackie Cucco, who tested this bag during a packable backpack test.
It's on the smaller size for a backpack, though it did hold most of our packing list, including a pair of shoes and a fleece pullover. Though it's not padded or structured at all, it is outfitted with several pockets, including a small interior slip pocket with a key leash and two stretchy exterior slip pockets. Other features include adjustable shoulder straps and smooth zippers. We think it's a great choice for a foldable bag from a trusted outdoor gear brand.
The Details: 7.48 x 8.66 x 16.54 inches | 5.3 ounces | 18-liter capacity | Nylon
Why We Love ItThis duffel offers two comfortable carrying methods and ample pockets for easy organization.
The main compartment is a little small, and we found the relatively narrow opening made packing somewhat tricky.
Made from high-density cotton canvas with plastic feet to keep it off the ground, the Gonex Canvas Duffel Bag impressed us during our durability tests. We felt the material was likely to last and easy to keep clean. The interior has one small, zippered pocket. We found the main compartment a little tight and had to use the exterior pockets to fit everything in. However, we loved the lengthways expansion feature and the fact that the side pockets are spacious enough to accommodate a pair of low profile shoes.
The duffel also stands out for its easy portability, offering two comfortable carrying methods. We liked that you can fasten the top grab handles with a Velcro strap for added security and cushioning. And the adjustable, removable shoulder strap is padded enough to make lengthy cross-terminal walks a breeze. We found that the bag’s overall aesthetic does not look particularly high-quality, but we like that it comes in classic shades of gray, army green, and blue.
The Details: Carry-on | 20.8 x 11.8 x 9.8 inches | 2.9 pounds | 50-liter capacity | Expandable | Cotton canvas, nylon
Why We Love ItThis rolling duffel offers space for days and enough pockets to satisfy even the most strategic packer.
Some effort is required to maneuver the duffel over rough or uneven surfaces.
The Travelers Club Xpedition 30-inch Upright Rolling Duffel is made from adventure-ready, 600-denier polyester, which stood up to our durability tests without a single dent or tear. Two in-line blade wheels make it easy to transport heavy loads, although we felt that the retractable handle could benefit from a smoother, longer extension. The duffel rolled smoothly over concrete and paver gaps but was a little trickier to maneuver over carpet and gravel.
We loved the deceptive spaciousness of the main compartment, which easily accommodated 10 to 14 days’ worth of winter clothing with room leftover. It’s completely unstructured to suit the “chuck it all in” packer but complemented by a slew of external zippered pockets for the more organized traveler. Other perks include two hard plastic feet so that the duffel can stand upright on its own and a trifold bottom board for compact storage. Choose yours in plain black or with colored accents ranging from burnt orange to forest green.
The Details: Checked suitcase | 30 x 13 x 12 inches | 6.7 pounds | 77-liter capacity | 600D polyester
Why We Love ItThis weekender offers great style and durability for a very reasonable price.
Don’t expect to be able to fit enough for more than a couple of nights away.
Constructed of high-density, water-resistant nylon, the HYC00 Travel Duffel Bag survived our durability tests without a mark. This weekender is designed to adhere to airline carry-on restrictions and offers multiple carrying methods. We found the top handles and the removable, adjustable shoulder strap soft and comfortable. We also appreciated the integrated trolley sleeve, which allows you to attach the bag seamlessly to your other luggage.
The bag offers abundant organization with six internal pockets and two external ones. We liked the open pocket on the outside of the bag for keeping quick-grab items handy. On the inside, our favorite feature was the waterproof pocket for separating toiletries or damp clothes. We were able to fit everything on our packing list; however, there wasn’t much space leftover (don’t expect to pack for longer than a weekend away). The bag comes in colors to suit all tastes, from coral red to olive green.
The Details: Carry-on | 21.7 x 10.6 x 7.1 inches | 1.3 pounds | 30-liter capacity | Nylon | Water resistant
Why We Love ItThe quantity and sizing of the various interior pockets make this an organizer's dream.
The bag looks a bit clunky.
For any professional looking for a well-organized personal item or commuter bag, this strong and durable briefcase is the perfect choice. While it may not be the most lightweight option, nearing 3 pounds when empty, this bag features so many organizational components that even the less neat travelers will be able to keep all of their items in place. The well-sized bag fit every item on our packing list without becoming too cumbersome to carry for long periods of time thanks to padded, wide straps that grip the shoulder and help distribute weight. We also love the amount of padding along the lining of the bag itself, so items — including laptops and tablets — will stay protected even after dropping the bag. The exterior is also resistant to water for an added layer of durability against rain or spills.
The Details: 18 x 12.8 x 7.5 inches | 2.88 pounds | Canvas polyester | Water-resistant
Here are some other luggage pieces worth mentioning. Though we found some minor issues during testing, they could still be a fit for certain travelers.
Coolife Carry-on With Pocket: We loved this bag’s attractive aesthetic, roomy interior, and butter-smooth zippers. It survived our durability tests without a mark but lost points for a lack of maneuverability and interior compartments that were a little too tight.
Seyfocnia Convertible Carry-on Travel Garment Bag: We loved this bag’s intuitive design, which includes convenient straps, spacious pockets, and sturdy zippers. It was comfortable to carry, and if we had to change anything, we'd addwe wish it had a padded laptop sleeve.
Traveler’s Choice Lares Carry-on Spinner: We love that this expandable carry-on is easy to pack and is large enough to hold all of the essentials, but we thought the wheels felt flimsy, and we wish they were more durable.
We are constantly testing luggage in our New York City lab, and for this article we put together a list of the more affordable pieces that also performed well. First, we weighed each bag, then examined it to determine the quality of its materials and hardware. Next, we packed each bag with a prescribed list of items designed to imitate a real-life trip, taking note of capacity and organization features.
If the suitcase had wheels, we rolled it around on concrete, carpet, and gravel to see how smooth they felt. We also took each suitcase through an obstacle course meant to mimic a busy station or airport to check how well it handled tight turns. If the bag had straps, we carried it around for at least five minutes to see if they were comfortable. We placed carry-ons and underseaters into overhead bins and underneath airplane seats on our mock airplane set.
Finally, all bags were subjected to a durability test. We pushed each fully packed bag off a counter or from the top of a stepladder multiple times, then beat them repeatedly with a baseball bat to see how well the exterior, interior, and contents withstood rough handling. We took notes on the capacity, design, durability, maneuverability, and value of each bag, choosing the lowest cost bags with the highest results for this article. We will continue testing each bag on our travels over the course of six months, and we are constantly testing new bags to update our articles with the latest results.
Luggage falls into two main categories: hardside and softside. There are pros and cons to each, and you must decide which best suits your needs. Hardside luggage is made from strong, lightweight materials such as polycarbonate or ABS plastic. The rigidity affords an extra level of protection for fragile items, while these materials’ natural water-resistance is great in inclement weather. They are easier to wipe clean and may look new for longer, although some styles are prone to scuffs, scratches, and dents. Hardside luggage is also not particularly flexible, making it harder to close when you stuff it full.
Softside luggage is typically made from durable nylon, polyester, or canvas. It’s often lower in cost, making it a good bet for those on a budget (although this is obviously brand dependent). The added flexibility is a pro for overpackers or those who need to fit irregularly shaped objects into their backpack or duffel bag. Adventure travelers often prefer softside luggage, because it’s easier to throw into small spaces (like the back of a safari jeep or the hold of a cross-country bus), and it's usually more lightweight than hardside bags. These are less prone to scratches; however, the fabric may stain or fade and is harder to clean.
When it comes to affordability, it’s important to consider cost per use and not just the initial layout. Sure, you can find a suitcase for $20, but if it only lasts for two trips before the wheels and zipper break, it could be more expensive in the long run than a pricier option that lasts for several years. Quality is key if you’re looking for good value. We recommend choosing luggage that prioritizes durable materials (including sturdy hardware), while keeping costs down by forgoing luxury extras.
No matter where you're going or how long you're staying, you don't want to be lugging around some poorly made suitcase that falls apart on the first leg of your journey. A good way to make sure you’re buying a reliable product is to stick with a trusted midrange brand like Travelpro or Samsonite and to diligently check industry and customer reviews. Just remember: you don't have to spend a ton of cash to get something that's sturdy and reliable. The key is knowing what you want and doing your homework beforehand.
Although you wouldn't want to pay more for unnecessary frills, it may help you decide between two suitcases if they're around the same price point and one has some extra features, like an expandable zipper to add extra space or USB ports to charge your on the go. It's helpful to explore the features ahead of time so that you're aware of what you're buying because some bags have more to offer than others. Smart features can mean many different things — even if the bag has a charging port, the power bank might not be included. If you're looking at suitcases, look at photos or descriptions of the interior to see what types of pockets there are (or if there are no pockets at all). For weekenders and duffel bags, see how many different handles there are — some have removable straps so you can carry them multiple ways. Read the descriptions thoroughly to avoid surprises.
If you really only need a single suitcase, then of course you’ll spend less buying it separately. But if you’re in the market for a whole new set (whether that’s for different types of trips, for that coordinated look at the luggage carousel, or to divide between family members), then buying luggage as a set is typically — but not always — a lower cost than buying each piece individually. Sets most commonly come with two or three pieces: a carry-on and one or two checked bags of varying sizes. You can also find affordable sets with many more pieces, from underseaters to totes. Make sure to buy only what you’ll actually use if you’re trying to stick to a budget.
Often, buying luggage online is significantly cheaper than buying in-store. This is especially true if you use a retailer like Amazon, Target, or Walmart that offers many reliable luggage brands and the option to filter results by price for a side-by-side comparison on what’s available at your chosen price point. The ability to view unbiased customer reviews also helps ensure what you see is what you get and that the luggage is of the kind of quality you can live with. Don’t forget “own-brand” luggage from Amazon Basics and Walmart’s Protégé line — they may not have many bells and whistles, but they offer reliable products at a very reasonable rate. If you're not in a rush to buy, you can wait for big shopping events to find some suitcases on sale.
The best way to find out if your luggage is covered by a warranty is to check the company's website prior to purchasing. Just keep in mind that every luggage company has a different warranty, so it's usually best practice to read your brand's policy ahead of traveling to address any defects or concerns before it's too late. Sometimes the warranties are only valid if you purchase directly through the luggage company instead of through third-party sellers like a discount department store, and you will likely need to show proof of purchase, so keep your receipt.
While warranties usually cover manufacturing defects, most companies won't cover cosmetic damage or wear and tear from regular use, such as scratches, dents, or stains. Most warranties will also exclude defects caused by airlines or hotel workers handling the bag — we'd recommend purchasing travel insurance for that.
After purchasing a new suitcase, you should lightly test out the wheels, zippers, and other special features at home prior to traveling with it to ensure that they're functional and suit your needs. That way, you can address any issues upfront and return it in a timely manner if there is a return policy.
T+L contributor Jessica Macdonald has been writing about the travel industry, with a particular focus on luggage, for more than a decade. For this article, she drew inspiration from her own research and the results of laboratory tests carried out on more than 650 different luggage pieces by T+L’s team of travel experts.
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