When you're planning to jet off into the sunset, what you need is the best suitcase for travel to make your journey smooth sailing. Bonus points if your suitcase looks stylish enough that everyone in the airport has suitcase envy while you're picking up your luggage from the conveyor belt.
Along with that though, the best suitcase for travel needs to be hardy so it can withstand its fair share of bumps along the way; lightweight, so it's easy enough to carry up loads of stairs; and, easy to manoeuvre through crowded streets while you're trying to find the way to a hotel you've never stayed in before.
It also helps if the suitcase in question is budget-friendly because we imagine you don't want to spend loads on a case when you've already spent a small fortune on your holiday, right?
Closer's best suitcase for travel at a glance:
Best highly rated suitcase for travel
Best budget suitcase for travel
Ideally, it'll also fit all of your essentials and be easy to pack your travel hairdryer and travel pillow. And, another unavoidable point to mention is, it'll have to meet the requirements of the airline you're travelling with. In which case, you might need to go for an under-seat luggage bag instead.
With that being said, we at Closer have put the best suitcase for travel to the test to help you make your decision. Yep, we've put together an edit of some of our recommendations, as well as answers to some frequently asked questions when it comes to suitcases for travelling.
So, ready to check out the best suitcase for travel? Buckle yourself in and let's get started.
SHOP: 10 best suitcase for travel 2024
Editor's choice
![Aerolite Vintage Style Hard Shell Carry On Cabin Suitcase](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/08/best-suitcase-for-travel.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
We've selected the Aerolite Vintage Style Hard Shell Carry-On Cabin Suitcase as our Editor's choice. This is the suitcase that we use frequently to travel on train trips. It's a neat enough size to fit into baggage areas and one of the most lightweight options on our list. It's smooth and easy to manoeuvre around, and can get most of the essentials in, so, in our eyes it's perfect for a short trip away. We love its vintage style and the fact that it comes in different size options, too. We've had this durable case for a few years now, and despite being cream, it's still in pretty good nick.
Pros
- Looks more expensive than it is
- Comes in a number of different size options
- A lightweight, manoeuvrable option
Cons
- Cream colourway may show marks more easily - but can also be wiped clean
Dimensions: | 55 x 35 x 20cm |
Weight: | 2.7 kg |
Capacity: | 33L |
Best suitcase for travel overall
![Away Travel The Medium Flex](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/08/best-suitcase-for-travel-7.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.awaytravel.com
Away is a company that has been making waves in recent years, with a few of our testers recommending Away's travel cases. Carly Honeyfield, the Lifestyle Section Editor at Closer's mag, reveals that "This case is probably one of the most stylish looking cases and although it’s a medium-sized case, you can really pack lots in as it’s expandable too." With good organising, our tester thinks you would be able to take this case on a two-week trip. It’s smooth to manoeuvre and if you struggle with a larger case this would be a better choice as it’s easier to handle.
Pros
- Looks stylish and sophisticated
- Is expandable to fit a 77.3L capacity
- Feels extremely sturdy to handle
Cons
- Slightly heavier than other suitcases according to our tester
Dimensions: | 66.1 cm x 47 cm x 28 cm |
Weight: | 4.9 kg |
Capacity: | 77.3L (expanded) |
Best highly rated suitcase for travel
![SHOWKOO 28-Inch Expandable Hard Shell Suitcase](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/08/best-suitcase-for-travel-2.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
With 23,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating on Amazon, it's safe to say the Showkoo Expandable Hard Shell Suitcase is worthy of a mention. The formidable suitcase comes with an impressive 93L capacity and a durable polycarbonate case, ideal for taking on long-haul journeys. One tried and tested review says, 'I have been looking for the perfect suitcase and I think I found it. I travel a lot and want a larger, expandable, tougher and more visible case. This ticks all the boxes'.
Pros
- Large 93L capacity suitable for long journeys
- Comes in a number of different size and colour options
- Made from durable, scratch-resistant polycarbonate
Cons
- The zipper may be stiff to work at times
Dimensions: | 50 x 31 x 77cm |
Weight: | 4.58 kg |
Capacity: | 93L |
Best budget suitcase for travel
![Von Haus ABS Pink Cabin Bag](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/08/best-suitcase-for-travel-3.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.vonhaus.com
This compact cabin bag packs a punch, and this suitcase comes highly rated by our testers and customers alike. A fab budget option, Closer mag's Lifestyle Writer, Lucy Brown, says that the hard shell feels sturdy but lightweight and the size makes it perfect for the cabin requirements of airlines including easyJet and Jet 2. Overall, our tester was really impressed with this budget-friendly case as it looks sleek, feels hard-wearing and is the perfect size for short getaways.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Stylish, sturdy and hard-wearing exterior
- Compact size, perfect for short trips away
Cons
- Zips have to be lined up to lock which can take some trial and error
Dimensions: | 55cm x 35cm x 20cm |
Weight: | 2.5kg |
Capacity: | 35L |
Best popular suitcase for travel
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/08/best-suitcase-for-travel-1-1.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.argos.co.uk
One that Hayley Merrick, the Closer magazine's Cookery Editor can recommend is the It Luggage Large Expandable 8-Wheel Hard Suitcase. Possibly the biggest on our list, with a whopping 147L capacity, it's ideal for long-haul trips. Our tester believed that the selling point for this case is the design, as it looks very stylish. Argos customers are also raving about this suitcase, with a customer revealing, 'This is a very nice, big spacious suitcase great for long holidays as it holds so much'.
Pros
- Hundreds of reviews and in demand at Argos
- Is expandable to fit a massive 147L capacity
- Looks expensive, stylish and classy
Cons
- Tricky to store when not in use due to size
Dimensions: | 77.5 x 55 x 40.6cm (expanded) |
Weight: | 5.3kg |
Capacity: | 147L (expanded) |
Best luxury suitcase for travel
![Carl Friedrik The Carry On Suitcase](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/08/best-suitcase-for-travel-5.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.carlfriedrik.com
For real jet-setters, Carl Friedrik's The Carry On Suitcase is definitely a more premium option. It looks the part, but does it work like a charm too? According to tester, Lucy, it does. She could immediately tell that this was high quality by both the look and feel. The aluminium frame makes it feel extremely strong while also being lightweight. The inside of the case has compression straps and a compression pad, which comes in handy when packing bulkier items. And, the locks on the side feel secure but easy to use, and the 360º wheels are quiet and smooth.
Pros
- Looks and feels high-quality
- Has a strong exterior aluminium frame for durability
- Comes in a number of different colours
Cons
- On the larger side for a carry-on case, double-check airline guidelines beforehand
Dimensions: | 37.6 x 56.6 x 24 cm |
Weight: | 3.9 kg |
Capacity: | 40L |
Best stylish suitcase for travel
![JD Williams Rock Jewel Large Case](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/08/best-suitcase-for-travel-4.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.jdwilliams.co.uk
Product Writer, Rosie Floyd, is a fan of the JD Williams Rock Jewel Case. She revealed, "I'm a self-confessed over-packer but I feel like even if I packed double the amount of clothes I needed, it still wouldn't be full to the brim. It feels super lightweight, even when I have all my clothes inside, and it glides with zero effort so it would be a great holiday suitcase. I also love the stylish design and rose gold hardware." All in all, a super stylish suitcase you'll be proud to claim from baggage.
Pros
- Looks more expensive than it is
- Fairly lightweight despite being large
- Easy to manoeuvre with little effort
Cons
- Soft-shell polyester exterior may not be as durable
Dimensions: | 80 x 48 x 32.5cm |
Weight: | 3.4 kg |
Capacity: | 97L |
Best expandable suitcase for travel
![Antler Expandable Cabin Suitcase In Moorland Pink Icon Stripe](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/08/best-suitcase-for-travel-3-1.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.antler.co.uk
Antler is a brand that we're paying attention to, and is one that our tester, Stephanie, can swear by. She says, 'Antler are well known as a reputable suitcase brand for quality'. We can't agree more, with reviewers praising the Antler Expandable Cabin Suitcase's design, quality, storage space and manoeuvrability. One customer took to the comments to write, 'Love this case, such good quality and never had a case that glides so well! The expander on it makes packing a dream, allowing me to fit so much more in. And the pink is the perfect shade so chic!'
Pros
- Looks and feels high-quality
- Comes in a number of different colour and size options
- A lightweight, manoeuvrable option
Cons
- Lighter colours may show marks more easily - but can also be wiped clean
Dimensions: | 36 x 55 x 23 cm |
Weight: | 2.8 kg |
Capacity: | 46L |
Best weekender suitcase for travel
![Helly Hansen Sport Expedition Trolley Carry On](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/08/best-suitcase-for-travel-2-1.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.hellyhansen.com
Another one we can recommend is Helly Hansen's Sport Expedition Trolley Carry-On. Junior Lifestyle Writer at the Closer mag, Helena Holdworth, told all. Despite being extremely compact and lightweight in size, this carry-on trolley bag provides ample storage. Once on the go, our tester found it easy to manoeuvre, with the wheels moving smoothly and quietly even on bumpy terrains. The internal mesh dividers make packing effortless, and the optional lockable zipper on the main compartment means all your belongings are protected. Other reviews agree, stating 'The size is perfect, small but fits enough and it's both light and durable'.
Pros
- A lightweight, manoeuvrable option
- Wheels move smoothly and quietly, even over bumpy terrain
- Compact size, perfect for short trips away
Cons
- Not as waterproof as other options on the list
Dimensions: | 56 x 36 x 23 cm |
Weight: | 3g |
Capacity: | 40L |
Best lightweight suitcase for travel
![OHS 4 Wheel Hard Shell Suitcase](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/08/best-suitcase-for-travel-6.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.onlinehomeshop.com
Lifestyle Editor at the Closer magazine, Annabelle Lee put the OHS 4 Wheel Hard Shell Suitcase to the test. Our tester’s first impression of this case was just how lightweight it was, despite being large. It is really spacious inside, which means there is no need to cram in all of your clothes. The size of this case makes it perfect for long-haul holidays as it can store a couple of weeks’ clothes with ease. The wheels are 360º rotation, making it easy to pull along and the handles are really cushioned and comfortable. The dark colour of the case looks smart and means that it hopefully won’t show knocks and marks.
Pros
- Fairly lightweight despite being large
- Comes in a number of different size options
- Easy to manoeuvre with 360º wheel rotation
Cons
- Is still one of the heavier options on the list
Dimensions: | 75 x 49 x 29 cm |
Weight: | 4.1kg |
Capacity: | 95L |
Closer's verdict: What is the best suitcase for travel?
The best suitcase for travel totally depends on your individual needs. However, at Closer, our top choices are the Away Travel The Medium Flex due to Away being a highly-rated, bestselling and award-winning site with an endless amount of options.
Another honourable mention goes to the SHOWKOO 28-Inch Expandable Hard Shell Suitcase on Amazon having amassed thousands of positive reviews, has different size options to choose from, and next-day delivery is available with Amazon Prime.
How we selected the best suitcase for travel:
We selected some of the best suitcases for travel from ones that we were able to try, test and genuinely recommend. We also included the best suitcases that were highly reviewed and rated by customers, along with a variety of options in terms of budget, style and design.
How we tested the best suitcase for travel:
We evaluated the best suitcase for travel on our list based on real testing over a length of time, where we took into consideration the budget, size, weight and overall manoeuvrability of each suitcase while on our travels. Other factors such as design, style and capacity also informed us on these decisions.
FAQs
Which is the best suitcase for international travel?
When looking at the best suitcases for international travel on our list, we'd recommend looking at the ones with the largest capacity. Personally, we'd recommend the SHOWKOO 28-Inch Expandable Hard Shell Suitcase, the Argos it Luggage Large Expandable Suitcase and the OHS Hard Shell Suitcase for international travel.
Which suitcase material is best for international travel?
Polycarbonate seems to be the most highly recommended material for suitcases when it comes to international travel. This sturdy material can withstand impact and changes in temperature pretty well, perfect for transporting all of your stuff from place to place.
How much luggage can I take on a plane?
How much luggage you can take on your plane journey will all depend on what you select at the time of booking. Not all airlines include checked baggage in their fares so'll probably have to add this on separately unless you've booked a package holiday.
The standard is you can usually have one checked suitcase that goes into the hold of the plane, but the maximum weight will depend on your chosen airline. We've rounded up the common maximum weights for some of the UK's most popular airlines. However, we'd always recommend checking with them directly before you fly.
Ryanair: Hold luggage - 20kg
EasyJet: Standard hold luggage - 23kg
Jet2: Hold luggage - 22kg
TUI Airways: Standard hold luggage - 20kg
British Airways: Hold luggage - 23kg
Virgin Atlantic: Hold luggage - 23kg
Most airlines may also offer you the option of buying additional KGs for your luggage, but no single suitcase can weigh more than 32kg across all airlines for the safety of baggage handlers.
Samantha Price is a Senior Commercial Content Writer for Closer. During her time at Bauer, she has worked on several projects, from championing the Closer newsletters to writing expertly crafted buying guides on beauty, fashion and lifestyle.