Suitcase Buying Guide
Expert hacks, features and advice on how to pick the best luggage.
Picking the right luggage can make all the difference when traveling. Whether you're packing light for a weekend getaway or need extra space for a long-haul trip, finding the perfect suitcase is key. Wondering how to get the best luggage for you? Our guide breaks down suitcase sizes, styles and features. We'll also discuss the pros and cons of hard shell vs soft shell designs and essential security features to help make your trip seamless.
What suitcase size do I need?
Picking the right suitcase size depends on the length of your trip and airline restrictions. Read our guide on suitcase sizes to find the right fit for you.
What type of luggage should I buy?
Now you know the different suitcase sizes, it's time to figure out what types of suitcases/luggage you should buy. Should you go for soft or hard-shell? Let's break it down.
Small and cabin suitcases
Ideal for short trips or airlines with strict cabin size policies. Look for lightweight, compact picks with plenty of interior organization.
Medium suitcases
Great multipurpose cases for weekend breaks or business trips where you need checked luggage. A medium suitcase has more space without being too bulky. Four-wheel cases provide additional convenience.
Large suitcases
Perfect for longer vacations (one to two weeks.) Have expandable sections and multiple compartments to help keep everything organized.
it suitcases
it Luggage is best known for lightweight, durable designs with spacious interiors. Great for any type of traveler.
Soft suitcases
Soft shell suitcases are great for flexibility and versatility. They're usually made of lightweight materials so they're easy to carry and pack, while multiple pockets and compartments help with organization. From small soft picks to large colorful ones, check out our collection of suitcases to find your perfect soft shell luggage.
Hard shell suitcases
Hard shell suitcases, on the other hand are tough: they can protect your stuff from rough handling. Typically, hard shell suitcases are easier to maintain and tend to be more water-resistant. Plus, they look super sleek and come in lots of colors, making them a trending pick.
Four-wheel suitcases
Four-wheel suitcases, AKA "spinner suitcases", are the ultimate travel companions. Glide through the airport with ease with a four-wheeled cabin suitcase — you choose the direction; we’ll bring the case.
Backpacks
Travel backpacks are a convenient luggage option when you want to go hands-free. From compact daypacks to large backpacks for longer trips, they're practical picks for outdoor activities, city exploration and even carry-on luggage. Our awesome collection has various backpack sizes and styles you'll love.
Weekender bags
Weekenders are perfect if you like to pack lightly and efficiently for short trips. These cool compact bags come in various shapes and sizes, and are designed to fit everything you need for a weekend getaway. They're lightweight, easy to carry and can fit in most overhead compartments.
Kids’ suitcases
For mini travelers, make their travel experience more fun with an adorable suitcase designed just for them. Kids' suitcases come in various sizes and styles for all ages, from toddler-sized to pre-teen.
Let 'em take their pick: we have characters like Mickey Mouse and Friends, and colorful cases that make them easy to spot on the baggage carousel. Our best-loved character backpacks have plenty of room to fit all the kids’ vacation clothes, from girls’ bikini sets to boys’ swim shorts. The best part? After summer vacation, they double up as the perfect school backpacks.
Should I buy hard or soft luggage?
When deciding between hard shell and soft shell luggage, it depends on your travel style, packing needs and durability preferences. Both types have advantages and drawbacks, so here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide.
Hard shell suitcase
Hard shell luggage is made from materials like polycarbonate, ABS plastic or aluminum, with a sturdy outer shell that resists impacts and protects fragile items.
Pros:
Additional protection: Great for carrying breakables like electronics, glass bottles or souvenirs.
Water-resistant: Keeps contents dry in rain.
Sleek and stylish: Available in modern, glossy finishes with bold colors.
Stackable: Easy to store, since they keep their shape.
Scratch-resistant options: Some models feature a textured surface to minimize scuffs.
Considerations:
Less flexible: They can’t expand or squeeze into tight spaces like overhead compartments.
Heavier than soft shells: Some hard shell suitcases weigh more, reducing how much you can pack.
Best for: Long-haul flights, business trips, luxury travel or carrying delicate items.
Soft shell suitcase
Soft shell luggage is usually made from polyester or nylon for more flexibility and external storage options.
Pros:
Lighter and more flexible: Perfect for squeezing into tight spaces, like overhead compartments or car trunks.
More expandable: Many models have zipped expansion sections for extra packing room.
External pockets: Handy for storing essentials like passports, chargers or last-minute additions.
More durable against rough handling: Soft shell materials are less likely to crack when transported.
Considerations:
Less protective: Provides less defense against unexpected impact, particularly if carrying fragile items.
Absorbs water: Not fully waterproof.
Best for: Short and long trips, carry-on luggage, road trips or when you need easy-access storage.
Luggage features
It’s time to unpack all the luggage features to look out for:
Suitcases with locks
Traveling with valuable items? Just want some extra security for your stuff? A suitcase with a lock is the way to go. These suitcases have built-in number locks to protect your valuables wherever you are.
Suitcases with compartments
Whether you’re a smart packer or a total over packer, suitcases with compartments are your best friends. Designed with various pockets, dividers and sections that make it easy to pack, you can even find suitcases with laptop compartments.
Expandable suitcases
Sometimes you need a little extra room when traveling. That’s where expandable suitcases come in. These suitcases have an extra zipper which increases the capacity of your luggage, giving you more room for those last-minute adds.
Suitcase colors
Who said suitcases have to be boring? You can find a wide range of suitcase colors to go with your personal style. From classic black to bright pink and marble print, there's a suitcase color for everyone.
Suitcase wheels
One of the most important features of a suitcase is its wheels. Four-wheel suitcases make it easy to navigate through the airport and city streets, while two-wheel suitcases, also called roller bags, are more traditional and easier to pull behind you. Pick the wheels that work best for your travel style.
Suitcase handles
Handles may seem like a minor feature, but they can make a big difference when you’re traveling. Look for suitcases with comfortable, sturdy handles that are easy to grip, including a retractable handle for pulling the suitcase and a side handle for lifting.
Protected zippers and closures
Protected zippers give extra security by reinforcing the closure mechanism. TSA-approved locks are a must for international travel. These locks let security staff inspect your luggage without damaging it.
FAQs
What is hold luggage?
Hold luggage, also known as checked luggage, is any suitcase or bag that is stored in the aircraft’s cargo hold during a flight. Unlike hand luggage (carry-on), passengers do not have direct access to hold luggage during the trip. Airlines typically apply weight and size restrictions, and additional fees may apply depending on the fare type.
What is the difference between hold luggage and hand luggage?
The main difference is where the luggage is stored during the flight.
Checked-in hold luggage is stored in the hold during your flight. Hand or cabin bags are luggage you can take with you on the flight and store in the overhead lockers or under your seat. Airlines will specify weight and size dimensions for both items, so make sure you check before flying to avoid additional charges.
Which items can’t I pack in hand luggage?
Most airlines follow strict security guidelines for carry-on luggage. Prohibited items include:
Liquids over 100ml/3.3 ounces: Must be in containers of 100ml or less and fit in a transparent 1L bag.
Sharp objects: Scissors (over 6cm), knives and razor blades are banned.
Aerosols and gels: Only small amounts of deodorant, perfume, or toothpaste are allowed.
Weapons and explosives: Firearms, fireworks and self-defense sprays are prohibited.
Sporting and work tools: Items like baseball bats, hammers and drills are not allowed in carry-on luggage.
For full details, check your airline’s hand luggage policy before traveling.