17 best suitcases 2024, according to frequent travellers

Antler Clifton large in blush

Specifications:

• Size: Large check-in suitcase, 34 x 51 x 80cm.
• Capacity: 121l.
• Weight: 5kg.
• Materials: Polycarbonate
• Spinner wheels? Yes, 4 360 degree rotating double wheels.
• Telescopic handle? Yes.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell.
• Waterproof? Includes waterproof interior pocket.
• Lock type: TSA fixed combination.
• Expandable? Yes.

Pros: If you're lucky enough to be going on a long-haul trip this year and need something a little larger than Away's carry-on case, look towards the super stylish Antler Clifton suitcase. Available in eleven chic hues (including pink, black and powder blue). It's a super lightweight suitcase to roll around, has four, 360° double-spinner wheels which make wheeling it through the airport a dream plus a twist-grip handle that's compatible with the best laptop backpacks. This suitcase doesn't just roll – it glides. Oh, and Antler has ensured this case is as safe and secure as it can be. It has security zips, a super strong expander zip and a TSA-combination lock on the outside. Oh, and compression packing straps and four pockets on the inside.

Cons: None of note!

GLAMOUR tested review: Georgia Trodd, GLAMOUR's Senior Commerce Writer says, “There's not a long-haul trip or holiday where my Clifton suitcase isn't in tow with me. It's SO easy to travel with, from the four multi-directional wheels and sturdy handle to its helpful interior pockets and Mary Poppins capacity, it has never let me down. You know those put-together people you see at the airport and admire? Guarantee they own a Clifton."

Antler Brixham cabin in navy

Specifications:

• Size: Cabin suitcase, 55 x 35 x 20cm.
• Capacity: 32l.
• Weight: 1.9kg.
• Materials: Polyester.
• Spinner wheels? Yes, 360 degree rotating wheels.
• Telescopic handle? Yes.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Lid zipper.
• Waterproof? N/A.
• Lock type: TSA fixed combination.
• Expandable? No.

Pros: The most lightweight of the Antler models, the Brixham really does feel feather light compared to its Clifton and Stamford family members. In a cabin case, we find the lid zipper design to be more practical, allowing you to see more clearly while packing how close you are to reaching capacity. What's more, the fabric versus hard-shell suitcase design allows for a fuller use of those cabin-compatible measurements.

Cons: None, it's a top pick in the cabin case category.

Sympatico Large Expandable Spinner

Specifications:

• Size: Large check-in suitcase, 76.2 x 51 x 30.5cm.
• Capacity: 110.1l.
• Weight: 6.1kg.
• Materials: Makrolon® polycarbonate.
• Spinner wheels? Yes, lightweight, ball bearing double spinner wheels.
• Telescopic handle? Yes and it's recessed to minimise wrinkles in clothing, too.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell with a 70/30 split.
• Waterproof? Yes, waterproof seal.
• Lock type: TSA-friendly combination lock.
• Expandable? Yes, by up to 25%.

Pros: Designed to be ergonomic and stand the test of time, Briggs & Riley luggage is available in every style imaginable. Not only can you pack everything on your travel wishlist and still have room for souvenirs, but you can also rely on the supreme durability of the Makrolon® polycarbonate case to protect all your contents and stay scratch-and-scuff-free. Need even more room? The Briggs & Riley CX® system expands for 25% more space, then compresses to original size. Not to mention they offer buyers a lifetime functional guarantee, which means they'll repair anything so long as it isn't cosmetic.

Cons: No complaints. Not one.

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Samsonite C-Lite 4-Wheel 55cm Expandable Cabin Case

Specifications:

• Size: Cabin case, 55 x 40 x 20cm.
• Capacity: 36l.
• Weight: 2kg.
• Materials: Woven polypropylene.
• Spinner wheels? Yes, 4 shock-absorbing suspension wheels.
• Telescopic handle? Yes.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell.
• Waterproof? Yes, according to John Lewis.
• Lock type: TSA system lock.
• Expandable? Yes.

Pros: One of the best carry-on luggage options if you're after something super lightweight, this 2kg pick from Samsonite is not only sleek and chic, but it's really practical, too. With a hard case exterior for protection, one large zipped wallet, one small and USB charging functionality, you'll have everything you could possibly need right in the palm of your hand luggage. Checked bags, who?

Cons: The price tag is a little high if you don't have heaps of disposable income.

GLAMOUR tested review: Shei Mamona, GLAMOUR's Beauty Writer says, “It is expensive, but comes with a generous 10-year guarantee. It's super lightweight and if you, like me, struggle to put anything heavy in the overhead locker then you'll get along with this model. The clamshell separation is great for organisation and the different height positions on the handle come in useful when on the go. Plus, that glossy navy? Love.”

Vienna 4 Wheel Hard Shell Large Suitcase

Specifications:

• Size: Large check-in suitcase, 77.5 x 52 x 31.5cm.
• Capacity: 109l.
• Weight: 4kg.
• Materials: 100% plastics plus 100% polyester lining.
• Spinner wheels? Yes, 4.
• Telescopic handle? Yes.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell.
• Waterproof? N/A.
• Lock type: Padlock compatible zip fastening.
• Expandable? No.

Pros: For the price, weight and size of this suitcase, it's really no surprise that buyers have completely sold out the black colourway. You'll have to grab the navy model quick, as it's been sold more than once an hour over the past few days. Whew. The five year guarantee, the packing straps, the adjustable height on the small suitcase in the Vienna trio's handle. Kiss, kiss, kiss – parfait.

Cons: If we're being picky, we'd love if it was expandable.

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Away The Carry-On Flex

Specifications:

• Size: Cabin case, 55.1 x 34.8 x 22.9cm.
• Capacity: 39.8l.
• Weight: 3.7kg.
• Materials: Durable polycarbonate hard shell.
• Spinner wheels? Yes, 360°.
• Telescopic handle? Yes.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell.
• Waterproof? Water-resistant but not 100% waterproof.
• Lock type: TSA fixed combination.
• Expandable? Yes.

Pros: A direct competitor for the ever-popular Antler range, the Away Flex carry-on can be personalised, has an interior compression system and you'll have 100 days to test if it's a good fit for you. If it doesn't hold up on your New York getaway, simply return it. Easy.

Cons: For a cabin size case this is really quite heavy, a whole kg more than the Antler.

Monos Carry-On Pro Plus

Specifications:

• Size: Large carry-on suitcase, 58 × 38 × 24cm
• Capacity: 46l.
• Weight: 3.8kg.
• Materials: Polycarbonate
• Spinner wheels? Yes. High performance 360° spinner wheels
• Telescopic handle? Yes. 4 height settings
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell front pocket, YKK reverse coil zippers
• Waterproof? Includes waterproof interior pocket that can fit 16" laptop, tablets, or magazines
• Lock type: TSA fixed combination.
• Expandable? No

Pros: I don't think luggage has ever looked so cute. Monos partnered with New York City-based Magnolia Bakery to whip up these 5 bright and adorable limited edition colours with glossy hard shells but it's not all about the way it looks. They have ultra-sturdy telescopic handles with 360° spinner wheels who move as quietly as a whisper. The interiors look as pretty and lux as the outside. The lining is soft and anti-microbial, made of 100% recycled polyester, with ultra-microfibre vegan leather details and built-in, removable compression pad with zippered pocket for flat items. The suitcase looks cute, but still smart inside and out and it's perfect for business travel or trips that involve long transfers.

Cons: Do these colourways need to be limited edition?

GLAMOUR tested review: Shei Mamona, GLAMOUR's Beauty Writer says, “I felt like a kid at Christmas morning when opening this suitcase. I couldn't get over how lightweight and easy to move around it was, while still being sturdy and stylish. I rarely travel without my laptop, and I really appreciate a clamshell front pocket for my docs, so having that large side pocket, that opens with so much ease is a giant bonus. The interiors are gorgeous and have all the travel essentials that we tend to forget about, like a dirty laundry bag and a shoe bag. Being at airports might not be the most joyous experience, but this suitcase someway, somehow, almost makes up for it.”

Maxlite® Air Medium Check-In Expandable Hardside Spinner

Specifications:

• Size: Medium check-in suitcase, 70 x 44 x 28cm.
• Capacity: 89l.
• Weight: 3.85kg.
• Materials: 100% polycarbonate hard shell + an interior lining made of 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles.
• Spinner wheels? Yes, 8 smooth-gliding spinner wheels that rotate 360°.
• Telescopic handle? Yes, PowerScope Lite handle that locks in two positions.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell.
• Waterproof? Water-resistant with an H₂O guard.
• Lock type: TSA built-in lock.
• Expandable? Yes, up to 5cm extra.

Pros: A top pick for buyers on a budget that don't want to compromise on quality, be it a backpack or larger, more full-on types of long-haul suitcases, TravelPro is a brand you need on your radar. Stock everything from laundry bags to both soft and hard-shell cases, as well as four and two wheel luggage systems to suit your preference. This – the Maxlite® Air Medium – is expandable, available in five colours and made from post-consumer waste.

Cons: None here!

Victorinox Lexicon Framed Series medium four-wheel shell suitcase

Specifications:

• Size: Medium check-in suitcase, 28 x 46 x 68cm.
• Capacity: 72l.
• Weight: 5.5kg.
• Materials: Aluminium frame.
• Spinner wheels? Yes, 4 dual caster.
• Telescopic handle? Yes, dual tube.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell.
• Waterproof? N/A.
• Lock type: Two TSA locks.
• Expandable? No.

Pros: A brand that's well over 100 years old, Victorinox is a Swiss brand that puts its customers' needs at the heart of its designs. Whether it's a stylish look or functional usage, Victorinox's products will have you covered, and its wide range of luggage is testament to that. Seriously, they even sell packing cubes to make your life easier, as well as softside and hardside cases and, of course, all manner of large suitcases for long trips, like the above Lexicon model. We might also add that, while premium, for the heritage and quality of the brand, it's not quite so premium price-wise as its counterpart, Tumi.

Cons: None, the brand will even offer you a unique 1+10 year warranty, which covers you for practically everything in the first 12 months and then a revised list of faults thereafter. It even includes normal wear and tear in years 2-11, which is rare.

Horizn H7 Check-In Luggage

Specifications:

• Size: Large check-in suitcase, 52 x 77 x 28cm.
• Capacity: 90l.
• Weight: 4.9kg.
• Materials: Premium polycarbonate hard shell (partially recycled) with a recycled polyester lining.
• Spinner wheels? Yes, 4 360° Japanese spinner wheels.
• Telescopic handle? Yes.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell.
• Waterproof? No.
• Lock type: TSA approved lock.
• Expandable? No.

Pros: Horizn Studios cases do an impeccable job at protecting your luggage. Seriously – these cases last a lifetime and are great for serial travellers. The increasingly popular (and for good reason) German smart-luggage brand constructs its cases from aerospace-grade polycarbonate for seriously durability. They're also built on 360 degree Japanese spinner wheels to help you breeze through the airport. This suitcase is the brand's largest model and boasts smart features like a compression pad to help you pack, a removable charger (yup!) and a TSA-approved combination lock.

Cons: In terms of the practicality of placing an order, there isn't really time to hang about, the different colours fly in and out of stock, so grab your fave while it's still available.

July Checked Luggage polycarbonate suitcase

Specifications:

• Size: H66cm x W47cm x D29cm.
• Capacity: 80L.
• Weight: 3.8kg.
• Materials: 100% polycarbonate.
• Spinner wheels? Yes.
• Telescopic handle? Yes.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell.
• Waterproof? Yes.
• Lock type: TSA lock.
• Expandable? No.

Pros: Based in Australia, July has made waves in the luggage industry, gaining a reputation for crafting some of the lightest luggage in the world. Its moss suitcase features clever compartments, including a concealed laundry bag for tidy organisation and easy access, alongside whisper quiet wheels for effortless manoeuvring through busy airports.

Cons: It's definitely not a major issue, but it would be great if it were expandable.

GLAMOUR tested review: GLAMOUR's Commerce Writer, Mayola Fernandes, has tested this exact model in the Black colourway and relies on it solely for long haul trips. “It's become my go-to suitcase for long haul trips, thanks to being the lightest checked luggage I've ever tried. The wheels glide silently across various surfaces, whether it's cobblestones or concrete floors. In terms of capacity, there's ample room for a full two-week trip, but I would always suggest investing in packing cubes to optimise space," she says.

The Large Check-In Roller in Atlas Pink

Specifications:

• Size: W50cm x H 9.5cm x D32cm.
• Capacity: 111-132L.
• Weight: 5.4kg.
• Materials: Polycarbonate.
• Spinner wheels? Yes, 360° wheels.
• Telescopic handle? No.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell.
• Waterproof? N/A.
• Lock type: TSA lock.
• Expandable? Yes.

Pros: American based luggage label BÉIS is a time-earned brand thanks to its thoughtfully crafted luggage. Its Large Check-In Roller, available in an impressive 10 colour options, features compression straps, dividers with pockets, and a built-in laundry bag for separating worn clothes. Plus, the expandable design provides extra room for additional items you may pick up on your travels.

Cons: Despite being stain-resistant, it's not waterproof which is a drawback.

Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Hardshell 50cm 4-Wheel Cabin Bag

Specifications:

• Size: carry-on suitcase, 50 × 33 × 23cm
• Capacity: 35l.
• Weight: 2.8kg.
• Materials: 70% recycled polycarbonate
• Spinner wheels? Yes. 360° Hinomoto wheels
• Telescopic handle? Yes.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): clamshell
• Waterproof? Yes.
• Lock type: TSA fixed combination.
• Expandable? No

Pros: The split layout in this Herschel cabin luggage makes packing a breeze and since it's compartmentalised and has more room than meets the eye. Thanks to the silent performance of the Hinomoto 360° wheels, it also means that gliding through the airport is just that much easier, even when the suitcase is heavy. No annoying clattering or stumbling which some bad wheels give you after a couple of uses. It's also designed with a tonal stripe EcoSystem liner which is made from 100% recycled post-consumer water bottles, so it's like travelling with a conscious touch.

Cons: Would love to see a bigger colour selection.

GLAMOUR tested review: Shei Mamona, GLAMOUR's Beauty Writer says, “I got this suitcase in a neon orange shade and I love gliding it around small commutes and big travels. As far as durability goes. This thing is built for adventure. It's got reinforced corners for extra protection, and considering how it has had its fair share of bumps and knocks, its still holding up strong.”

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Rimowa Original Check-In M

Specifications:

• Size: Medium suitcase, 67 x 45.2 x 24.1cm.
• Capacity: 70l.
• Weight: 5.4kg.
• Materials: Aluminium, polyester, plastic and hard plastic.
• Spinner wheels? Yes, 4 ball-bearing mounted wheels with cushioned axels.
• Telescopic handle? Yes, with stage-free adjustment.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell.
• Waterproof? Yes.
• Lock type: 2 TSA-approved locks.
• Expandable? No.

Pros: One of the most luxe luggage brands in the business is Rimowa, always at the forefront of cutting-edge materials. In fact, it's Rimowa that crafted the first polycarbonate suitcase back in the year 2000. We loved the Original Check-In-M with its distinctive groove design, sleek and recognisable silver sheen and, tech-wise, the level of security it offers your valuables in unmatched.

Cons: Soft-shell duffle and suitcase lovers avert your eyes, all of Rimowa's luggage is hard-shell, though they have multiple different collections to choose from – from Classic to the pictured Original and, lastly, Essential Lite. Our other qualm? Much like the Tumi Alpha 3, the price point is somewhat of a deterrent. If you're browsing for luxury, however, this will be just the trick.

Tripp Pewter Absolute Lite Cabin 4 Wheel Suitcase

Specifications:

• Size: Cabin suitcase, 20 x 39 x 55cm.
• Capacity: 33l.
• Weight: 2.8kg.
• Materials: ABS including 50% recycled ABS.
• Spinner wheels? Yes.
• Telescopic handle? Yes.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell.
• Waterproof? N/A.
• Lock type: Secure integrated combination TSA lock.
• Expandable? No, but medium and large models are.

Pros: Affordable and available on Amazon Prime, Tripp suitcases get top marks from us if you don't want to spend a bomb. They've got over 20 years' experience designing and selling luggage, after all. Available in a plethora of colours (and often reduced in price for various seasonal sales) the Tripp Absolute Lite Cabin suitcase is one of the best lightweight picks and is tough and durable with a retractable trolley handle, top grab handle, packing straps and a zip-around divider. This case fits within most major airlines overhead allowances including BA, EasyJet Up Front & Ryanair Priority.

Cons: None of note!

GLAMOUR tested review: "I've had mine for years," GLAMOUR's Senior European Commerce Editor Sophie Cockett said. “It's still just as good as new and doesn't look subject to wear and tear.”

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Amazon Basics ABS Luggage

Specifications:

• Size: Small check-in suitcase, 38.1 x 26.4 x 56cm.
• Capacity: 41l.
• Weight: 3.04kg.
• Materials: ABS protective hard shell with scratch-resistant finish + 150D-polyester interior.
• Spinner wheels? Yes, 4 double spinner wheels.
• Telescopic handle? Yes.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell.
• Waterproof? N/A.
• Lock type: N/A.
• Expandable? Yes, up to 1& extra.

Pros: Increasingly hard to get hold of due to their popularity, Amazon Basics suitcases are reliable, low-cost and, the beauty of Amazon Prime, come with free delivery. This pick comes with a fully-lined interior, it can expand by 15% and, for organisational nuts, it comes with one open side compartment, as well as three zipped compartments for all your tablets and USB cables on the reverse side. We love.

Cons: Not the most lightweight for those pushing their luck with airline weight limits.

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Away The Bigger Carry-On

Specifications:

• Size: Cabin suitcase, 57.7 x 37.3 x 24.3cm.
• Capacity: 47.9l.
• Weight: 3.4kg.
• Materials: Durable polycarbonate hard shell.
• Spinner wheels? Yes, 360° spinner wheels.
• Telescopic handle? Yes.
• Opening (clamshell, lid zipper): Clamshell.
• Waterproof? No, but includes a waterproof laundry bag.
• Lock type: TSA-approved combination lock.
• Expandable? No.

Pros: Away reigns supreme as one of the most coveted and influencer-adored suitcase brands of the moment. Their suitcases are available in endless colours – including this epic limited edition ombre shade – and can be personalised. Plus, in the permanent colourways, you'll also have the option of built-in battery packs so you can charge your phone as you travel. They're made from a durable polycarbonate hard shell and have 360° spinner wheels that ensure a smooth ride. Away also stocks weekend bags, rucksacks, toiletry bags and packing cubes.

Cons: Some of the more popular colours – e.g. the crisp white – go in and out of stock frequently, so grab the ones you've got your eye on quickly!