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The best tried and tested luggage brands to take on your 2026 holiday
Putting the rest of baggage claim to shame
Tested by Reshma Akhter, Albert Orech-Achato and Tilly Hartshorn
When planning your next holiday, it’s easy to focus on flights and hotels, but shopping from one of the best luggage brands can make a big difference to how smoothly your trip goes.
A good suitcase should be easy to manoeuvre, spacious enough for your belongings, lightweight to carry and durable enough to withstand being thrown about on the luggage rack or in the hold. After all, poorly made luggage can quickly ruin a trip – from broken wheels to your case busting open on the baggage carousel to reveal your dirty laundry.
Whether you’re after a compact cabin bag for long weekend trips or a large check-in suitcase for longer getaways, investing in one of the best luggage brands means your case is far more likely to last for years. These are the ones that excelled in our rigorous testing.
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How we chose the best luggage brands
We've tested hundreds of suitcases in the Good Housekeeping Institute lab across a wide range of luggage brands to find the best for every type of traveller.
We drop every case 52 times from a height of one metre to ensure they're durable enough to be placed in the hold. We pop them in the shower to check any water-resistance claims and we pack them full of clothes and toiletries before wheeling them over different surfaces to check manoeuvrability. We also assess design before awarding a final score.
We’ve tested a wide range of Away luggage in our lab, and it never disappoints. From chic hard-shell cabin bags in fun colours to expandable softside suitcases for squishing ALL your holiday shopping in, Away luggage is both durable and cleverly designed. We love its handy compression systems, smooth wheels and tough polycarbonate shells – and the stylish colours are easy to spot at baggage reclaim.
Our tested pick:
The Carry-On (score: 89/100) is our best-in-test cabin case, and for good reason. It’s designed with a clever compression divider – the overpacker’s secret weapon – and even comes with a dirty laundry bag. We love the handle in the base too, which makes it easier to lift into overhead compartments. Plus, the outer shell is waterproof and extremely durable. It’s no wonder the brand offers a lifetime warranty...
Heritage British brand Antler has been creating stylish luggage made to last since 1914. The elegant, high-quality designs and lifetime warranty mean you can have total peace of mind when travelling.
Our tested pick:
Its rotating wheels make manoeuvring Antler's Single Stripe Large Suitcase (score: 83/100) a breeze.
It's as generous as its name suggests, reaching up to our tester’s hip, which means there's plenty of room for your essentials – and then some. Inside, there are two large main compartments, one of which is zipped – perfect for stashing dirty laundry while you're away. The stylish range of colours is a real treat, too.
American Tourister
American Tourister
American Tourister luggage always performs well in testing, combining spacious, lightweight designs with surprising durability – and all at a very reasonable, mid-range price tag. If you’re looking for something a little more premium than the budget brands, but don’t quite need all the luxury extras, you won't go far wrong with one of these cases.
Our tested pick:
The Bon Air Cabin Case (score: 89/100) is a favourite among our team.
Despite the relatively affordable price tag, we found the hard shell incredibly durable, withstanding repeated drop tests and rough handling from our experts. It's lightweight too, with smooth, sturdy wheels – and there’s a fun array of vibrant colours to choose from.
British luggage brand Tripp is well-known for its colourful hard-shell cases at purse-friendly prices. We've tested plenty of Tripp luggage over the years, and its cases always impress us with their durability, while being a fraction of the cost of premium brands.
Our tested pick:
Despite costing just £50, the Tripp Retro III Cabin Case (score: 86/100) impressed us with its smooth handling and hardy build. While it’s on the small side, at 34 litres, the dimensions are within even the strictest airlines’ cabin case restrictions, so there’s no need to stress over extra charges at the gate.
M&S might not be the first name that springs to mind for luggage, but our testing proves the high-street brand is well worth considering. The Amalfi range combines lightweight designs with impressive durability and smooth handling, making these cases a great-value choice for your next getaway. Each suitcase has a TSA-approved lock and 10-year guarantee for extra peace of mind, too.
Our tested pick:
The Amalfi 4 Wheel Hard Shell Medium Suitcase (score: 88/100) impressed our experts with its excellent manoeuvrability and durable hard shell. It glided smoothly across tarmac, concrete and carpet, coped well with kerbs and stayed watertight during our shower test, even around the zips – something many suitcases lose marks on. At just 1.23 kilos, the lightweight build also leaves you with baggage allowance to spare for all your holiday outfits. Inside, you’ll find packing straps, a zipped divider and two mesh pockets to keep everything organised. A fantastic suitcase for the price.
Melbourne-based brand July offers a host of pretty colourways to turn heads at baggage reclaim – but it’s the tough shells and excellent manoeuvrability that we love. These cases are packed with features, such as super-adjustable handles, aluminium bumpers on the corners and world-first integrated tracking. Plus, even the most affordable cases come with a lifetime guarantee.
Our tested pick:
The Checked Suitcase with Casesafe Tracking (score: 85/100) contains a built-in tracker that connects to your phone, which means no more lost luggage on holiday! It’s a pleasure to use, thanks to exceptionally quiet and stable wheels, while the handle has an impressive 20 height positions.
It’s also lightweight, well-organised and comes with a combination lock. Plus, the tough shell weathered our drop tests well, with minimal damage. A stylish and robust case that won’t go missing.
Carl Friedrik
Carl Friedrik
If you want quality luggage that looks the part, look no further than Carl Friedrik. You'll find stylish sets in a range of classic retro colourways, with a mid-century aesthetic that will turn heads on the carousel. They're an investment, but the price reflects the premium quality of the cases, which will be at your side for many adventures to come.
Our tested pick:
You'll be gliding through the airport with The Check-In case (score: 84/100), thanks to its silent 360 spinner wheels. The shell face proved extremely durable and hard to scratch on test too, and it scored full marks for its waterproof capabilities – the only case we've tested to let no water through the zips. It's on the heavy side due to its aluminium frame, but this is further testament to the quality of this case.
It’s in the name with this brand – Aerolite luggage is light on both the scale and the wallet. Despite the affordable price tags, we've always found this brand’s luggage spacious and durable. A great-value pick that leaves plenty of weight allowance left over for souvenirs, plus an extra outfit or two.
Our tested pick:
The Aerolite Expandable Ocean Recycled Plastic Cabin Suitcase (score: 81/100) is a great value option that weighs just 2.65 kilos – ideal for making the most of your luggage allowance. The hard shell, which is made of 60% recycled ocean plastic, proved durable in our drop tests while the wheels are strong and manoeuvre well. The expandable design gives you extra room when you need it, while the packing straps, zipped divider and two mesh pockets keep your belongings organised. The zips aren’t very water resistant, but it has a waterproof compartment for your electricals.
Affordable, durable, and available next day for those very last-minute trips, Amazon Basics is here to save your holiday. With everything from rolling duffle bags to under seat travel luggage to choose from, there’s a reasonably priced set for every trip.
Our tested pick:
The Hardside Case (score: 81/100) is a sturdy bit of luggage that's large enough for two on a short getaway. It excelled on our durability test, only suffering a few scuffs after 52 drops. Just note, it doesn't come with a lock.
When you’re climbing four flights of stairs to your city-break apartment, a wheelie bag with backpack straps can be surprisingly useful for switching to hands-free. Cult backpack brand Stubble & Co makes some excellent rolling rucksacks, taking all the best qualities from its regular bags and putting it all on wheels.
Our tested pick:
The 40L Wheeled Duffel (score: 81/100) is the most versatile cabin bag out there. With removable straps and a soft waterproof shell made from recycled PET, the convertible design impressed our experts with its excellent manoeuvrability and durability. Just check your airline’s restrictions before you fly, as this bag might be a little large for some cabin bag limits.
French luggage brand Delsey has been crafting luggage since 1946, and its cases have always been consistent high scorers in our tests. These suitcases are super-secure with multiple locks – great if you regularly travel with valuables. If you have the budget and want to keep your belongings safe, a Delsey case is a worthy investment.
Our tested pick:
The pod-like Moncey Trolley Case (score: 87/100) features three TSA-approved combination locks on the top, bottom and side for total peace of mind. It’s roomy, durable and manoeuvres smoothly even across bumpy surfaces, earning it an impressive score in the test lab.
Founded in the US in 1910, Samsonite has built a global reputation for making sturdy, practical and lightweight cases for frequent flyers. We’ve found their cases combine strong protection for your belongings with smooth manoeuvrability, gliding quietly over rough terrain with ease.
Our tested pick:
The Large Base Boost Spinner Expandable Suitcase (score: 81/100) is an impressively lightweight and spacious case. It easily fits everything you need for a two-week holiday inside, and you can expand the 105-litre capacity to 112.5 litres when needed. The soft-shell material isn’t very water-resistant, but it’s tough and light – and allows you to squeeze more clothes in than a hard-shell. A great pick for overpackers.
Combining style and affordability, British brand IT Luggage makes suitcases in all kinds of eye-catching designs – most of which carry a 10-year warranty. From elegant olive to colourful marble effect finishes, these sturdy, stylish cases will go the distance without breaking the bank.
Our tested pick:
Despite the affordable price tag, the IT Hard Large Suitcase (score: 78/100) is both spacious and tough. It has a durable polypropylene shell, which only suffered minimal damage when we dropped it from a height and wheeled it over kerbs. Inside, the roomy interior has several compartments to help you stay organised, and it expands to help you bring extra goodies home.
Berlin-based luggage brand Horizn Studios stands out for its premium features – such as super-quiet, Japanese-engineered spinner wheels – which sit alongside generous warranties. The range includes the super-light Air cases, the recycled polycarbonate RE series and the super-premium Pro series.
Our tested pick:
The Horizn Studios H5 Air Cabin Luggage (score: 76/100) weighs just 2.1 kilos, making it the lightest cabin bag we’ve tested – a huge plus for overpackers or people who just like to travel light. The thinner, lighter shell isn’t as durable as some others we’ve tested (so keep it out of the hold), but the wheels are exceptionally smooth and hard-wearing.
Budget luggage brand Coolife covers the essentials without making you pay extra for all the bells and whistles. The brand’s hard-shell cases are spacious and easy to manoeuvre, with TSA-approved locks, durable wheels and a small range of classic and bright colourways. If you’re not looking to overspend, these are reliable suitcases at a good price point.
Our tested pick:
The Coolife 28-Inch Large Hard Shell Suitcase (score: 72/100) is a breeze to wheel around, moving smoothly across all kinds of terrain, even cobblestones. The wheels are durable, too, with zero damage after being pulled up five flights of stairs. The simple interior has a zipped compartment on one side and adjustable elastic straps on the other, as well as one zipped pocket. Note that this case isn’t very water resistant, and in our durability tests, it suffered a fair bit of cosmetic damage, though it remained fully functional. If you don’t want it to get scuffed in the hold, keep it for staycations and train journeys.
What is the best material for luggage?
✔️ Hardshell luggage: These cases have become increasingly popular because they're often more durable, but also lightweight. However, not all hardshell cases are the same. Here's a breakdown of the benefits of each material.
- Polycarbonate: It's lighter than metal (like aluminium) yet more durable than plastic, making it the most common hardside material on the market. Polycarbonate is known for its high impact resistance – i.e. it protects against drops – but it has lower scratch resistance. Sometimes, a special coating is applied to prevent scuff marks.
- ABS plastic: Most low-cost hardside luggage is made of this material. It's more affordable and more lightweight than polycarbonate but not as durable, and it can be prone to scratches.
- Polycarbonate/ABS composites: You can find luggage that combines these materials, typically using ABS plastic underneath with a polycarbonate coating on top. The hybrid gives you the benefits of both, but it still isn't as strong as 100% polycarbonate.
- Aluminium: The metal is more durable, but it's heavier and more expensive than both polycarbonate and ABS, making it a less popular choice.
✔️ Softshell luggage: Because it's fabric-based, this luggage can be easier to fit into tight spaces and fill up with more items. The material also doesn't show scratches or dents, though certain fabrics can abrade more easily over time so you still need to shop with care.
- Nylon: This is the most common material used in soft fabric luggage. A synthetic fibre, it's highly durable and can withstand abrasion, making it ideal for frequent travellers who are rough on their bags. Nylon is also fairly water-resistant.
- Polyester: This one's also synthetic, but it's typically less expensive and more lightweight than nylon. The downside is that it's also less durable.
Is it better to have hard or soft shell luggage?
Hard and soft shell luggage both have their advantages. Hard shell cases offer superior impact resistance, making them better for protecting fragile items such as electronics or delicate souvenirs. They’re also more water-resistant and easier to wipe clean, though they can scuff easily or even crack under heavy abuse.
Soft shell luggage is typically lighter and more flexible. The fabric shell is better for squeezing into tight spaces or stuffing with a few extra items – but it will generally provide less protection from impact and rain. It can also be more prone to staining or tearing, though it may absorb the shock of a heavy fall better than a hard shell.
In general, hard shells work well for checked luggage or wet climates, while soft shells are a good choice for carry-on bags and overpackers.
What features should I be looking for in luggage?
Aside from the material, factor in your type of travel, length of trip and other individual needs before you buy.
✔️ Size: Do you need a carry-on that can come onto an airplane with you or a checked case that holds more holiday outfits? While a larger suitcase can fit more inside, it will also weigh more and take up more storage space, so it's worth weighing up all the pros and cons.
✔️ Weight: Hardshell luggage isn't always heavier than softshell, but added components like wheels and handles can certainly add weight. Besides airline weight limits, a heavier suitcase can also be a burden to carry while travelling.
✔️ Wheels: Your options are no wheels, two wheels or four wheels. Four-wheel luggage is the easiest to manoeuvre because it can be pushed, pulled and moved in all directions, plus you can tip it back and use it like a two-wheeler. Two-wheelers only roll when you tilt the luggage, and you can only pull it back and forth instead of side to side.
✔️ Handles: A telescopic handle should be easy to lift and lower and should be comfortable to hold, especially for larger luggage with a heavy load. Also, consider side handles — especially for carry-on luggage — if you're going to be lifting and lowering the case throughout your trip.
✔️ Compartments: Consider whether you prefer a large open space that can hold a big load or smaller compartments to help you organise your wardrobe. Some luggage also has exterior pockets for easy access, but this may take away from packing space on the inside.
What to avoid when buying luggage
When choosing luggage, there are a few red flags to watch out for, particularly when shopping online. A suitcase may look stylish in photos, but it’s important to check the details to make sure it will actually stand up to travel. Here’s what to look out for.
- Poor structure or materials: This is particularly crucial for checked bags. Flimsy soft-sided bags may offer little protection, while very cheap hard-shell cases can crack under pressure. If a listing doesn’t clearly state the materials used (such as polycarbonate, ABS or ballistic nylon) or the suitcase’s weight, it may indicate low-quality construction.
- Weak wheels and handles: Avoid single wheels or short, wobbly telescopic handles, as these can make a suitcase harder to manoeuvre and more likely to break. Double spinner wheels are usually more durable.
- Low-quality zips: These are one of the key weak points in a suitcase. If reviews mention them sticking or splitting, it’s best to avoid.
- The wrong size: Always check the dimensions carefully before buying, as airline carry-on limits vary.
- Style over function: Don’t choose luggage purely for its appearance – sturdy construction and practical features are far more important for frequent travel.
More Tried & Tested luggage
- The best cabin bags for maximising carry-on space
- The best suitcases for longer trips
- The best carry-on backpacks for squashing under the seat
- The best weekend bags for short trips in style
Final verdict: which is the best luggage brand?
Away is our favourite luggage brand overall, thanks to its consistently strong performance in our tests. The cases are durable, well designed and easy to manoeuvre, with thoughtful features that make packing and travelling simpler.
If Away is a little out of budget, Tripp, M&S and Aerolite are all excellent affordable alternatives. We’ve found these brands to offer straightforward, practical suitcases that hold up well for the price, making them a solid choice for occasional travellers.
Our favourite mid-range pick is American Tourister. These reliable suitcases combine lightweight designs with impressive durability, making them great value for money.
Testing suitcases at the GHI
Jasmine is the Good Housekeeping Institute’s homes writer. With a background in design, she is committed to sorting the good products from the great –and helping Good Housekeeping readers do the same.
Throughout her career, Jasmine has written extensively about product quality, craftsmanship and sustainability, and is passionate about consumer rights. She previously worked as a writer and researcher at the product longevity platform Buy Me Once.
If she isn’t reviewing the latest gadgets for your home, you can probably find Jasmine cooking elaborate meals or crafting something weird and wonderful!
Madeleine is our Lifestyle Writer, specialising in expert-tested reviews and round-ups on the latest beauty Beauty and Health & Wellness products. From skincare to protein powders, Maddie is committed to providing honest and helpful reviews to help guide readers to the best product for them. Maddie has a BA in English Literature and Language, which stemmed from her lifelong interest in reading and writing. She started her post graduate life at Hearst UK within a marketing capacity, which quickly turned into a desire to fulfil a writing career.
When she is not writing about the latest expert reviewed products, you can find her rifling through vintage shops or car boots, reading a print magazine, or capturing portraits on her film camera.
Reshma is the Junior Commercial Testing Manager at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she leads the commercial testing team, working with partners across a wide range of categories, including household cleaning products, home appliances, sports apparel, skincare, and travel experiences. With a master’s degree in chemistry from UCL, Reshma has a sharp eye for detail and product research, ensuring her market knowledge remains up to date.
Reshma has also appeared on the BBC’s ‘Inside the Factory’ feature representing the Good Housekeeping Institute on their Carpet Stain Removal Segment. While she enjoys dealing with numbers and the more technical aspects of testing, Reshma is also an enthusiastic foodie – and loves to explore London’s newest hot spot cafes and restaurants. She is also a whiz in the kitchen, keeping her team’s collective sweet tooth consistently at bay!
Albert Orech-Achato is a Homes Product Tester at the Good Housekeeping Institute, bringing a technology-led background that includes experience at Apple. He applies a critical, evidence-based approach to product testing, with a particular focus on performance, usability and value for money. Albert especially enjoys assessing kitchen appliances, while also testing a wide range of products for the home. His work helps consumers make confident, informed purchasing decisions based on rigorous, real-world evaluation.
Tilly brings a unique blend of skills to the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Homes Testing team. She has hands-on experience testing equipment across both editorial and television, working on live and pre-recorded productions. Alongside this, she is an experienced food stylist and producer, having collaborated with celebrity chefs and leading brands, including representing companies as a demo chef. Her work also spans advertising campaigns and branded content across the UK and internationally.
Originally trained as a cookery journalist, Tilly specialises in equipment testing and recipe development. She is passionate about making life easier for consumers, with a particular focus on simplifying instructions and improving usability.
When she’s not testing products, Tilly can usually be found singing in a choir or cooking up a feast for friends and family.
