The best checked luggage

While breezing past the baggage carousel with a carry-on seems like a no-brainer, you actually find more freedom with a checked bag. The best checked luggage stands out for its durability, smooth-gliding wheels, and smart use of space, making packing easier and travel far less stressful.

To narrow the field, our team tested a dozen checked bags to find those that are durable, spacious, portable, and thoughtfully designed. For more luggage recommendations, check out our best carry-on and best luggage guides.

Learn more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and researches products.

Our picks for the best checked luggage

Best overall: Away the Medium Flex - See at Away

Best budget: Samsonite Freeform Checked Medium Spinner - See at Samsonite

Best hard-shell: Samsonite Paralux Large Spinner - See at Samsonite

Best soft-side: Away the Softside Large - See at Away

Best lightweight: Antler Icon Stripe Large - See at Antler

Best trunk: Carl Friedrik Trunk - See at Carl Friedrik

Best for extra space: Bagsmart Getaway 24" Check-in: Side-Opening - See at Bagsmart

Best luxury: Briggs & Riley Medium Expandable Spinner - See at Briggs & Riley

Best overall

I've been using this bag for years. I got my Away Medium Flex years ago, and it's remained my personal go-to ever since. It's flown cross-country and internationally, and in each instance, my belongings arrive as intact as when I packed them. Even more impressive, almost half a decade later and the durable polycarbonate shell still looks like it did on day one. After throwing it directly onto concrete no less than five times, as directed by our tests, I noticed only a few scuffs, and most came out with a magic eraser or a damp cloth.

It's the perfect size for week-long trips. When participating in tests for this guide, I packed it according to a set list — as did every suitcase we considered for this guide. That list includes a specific number of items designed to cover everything you might need on a week-long trip, from casual outfits to formalwear. I can use it for five to seven day trips — I personally need a larger size for anything longer than a week, or if I am traveling somewhere where I'll need lots of bulkier clothes. If you frequently go on long trips or overpack, Away makes a large version, too.

The interior design is simple but effective. There are two clamshell halves: one has a fully zippered section, while the other is topped with a compressive panel with a built-in mesh pocket. The compression panel does help push things down a touch, but don't expect it to allow you to sneak in double the items. The pocket on the panel is also the only one inside, aside from an included laundry bag, which can be folded and rolled inside an interior pouch. If you overpack, an expandable zipper adds 1.75 extra inches of space. While I tend to avoid expansion zippers on carry-ons — they rarely fit into an overhead bin when in use — I don't shy away with a checked bag, and this one works well.

It's easy to maneuver and use. After years of use, all the zippers open and close smoothly. I also love how well this bag moves. The 360-degree wheels breeze over most surfaces, and even when fully packed and with a personal item perched on top, it's not prone to tipping. The medium size is also quite manageable, whether hoisting it off a baggage carousel belt or lifting it into a car trunk, and the price is reasonable.

Best budget

This bag is affordable and roomy. Made from durable yet lightweight polypropylene, the Samsonite Freeform Checked Medium Spinner has many design elements and features that are comparable to suitcases that easily cost double the price. Despite its medium size (it's also available in large), we were able to fit an impressive amount during testing while using our prescribed list, with plenty of room left over — and that's without using the expansion zipper, which provides an additional 1.5 inches of space.

It features details like side handles and compression straps. The suitcase also features thoughtful details like a TSA-approved combination lock, top and side handles, and an easy-to-adjust telescopic handle. Inside, cross-ribbon straps keep loose items secured on one side, while the other side features a fully zipped panel divider with a built-in pocket for added organization. The cross-ribbon straps don't provide much compression, but they're handy for keeping belongings organized.

We noticed minor scuffing during testing. During testing, our tester noticed that it scuffed easily when tossed on concrete. Thankfully the scratches and scuffs were minor, and most marks were removed easily with a magic eraser. Despite the wear and tear, it still outperformed all of the other affordable suitcases we tested, so it's a good choice for anyone looking for a checked bag under $200.

Best hard-shell

Our tester swears by this suitcase. According to deputy executive editor Bronwyn Barnes, checking a bag is something she's always avoided at all costs. But after a highly successful shopping trip in Seoul, where she did the unimaginable: She walked into a luggage store to buy a checked suitcase for the first time. She landed on Samsonite's Paralux Large Spinner because of its combination of a massive, souvenir-friendly size and lightweight feel. Her purchase paid off, and she's remained so impressed that it's become a staple for traveling, venturing to Paris, Hawaii, and Asia. It comes in a medium size, too.

We like the versatile design. Barnes appreciates the suitcase's two entry points: a traditional clamshell body and a front door flap. The unique front-door opening provides quick access to interior items without opening the whole suitcase. But when you're ready to fully unpack, it may also be opened traditionally, clamshell style. "I use the front door section to pack the things I'll need soon after I grab my bag at the airport, like a jacket, toiletries, and a change of clothes. It's so convenient to be able to pack and unpack the bag from the top, when space in a hotel room is limited," Barnes said.

It has handy features and shows minimal damage. The Paralux also has a compression panel, a TSA-approved dual lock, an AirTag holder, and a hook for carrying an additional bag. In our tests, the wheels worked just as well on carpet as on linoleum or tiled floors, and they remained steady on grass and uneven sidewalks. Plus, it comes with three packing cubes — which could easily cost you another $50 if you bought them separately.Durability-wise, Barnes did not note any marks or scuffs following at-home tests, though it has shown some light wear and tear after a few real-world flights. They did not come off completely when wiped down with a wet cloth, but they're not very noticeable, either.

It's expensive. It's a pricey bag that currently comes in limited colors, but Barnes still thinks it's worth it. "It's shown me that I have a better flying experience when I don't have to drag a carry-on with me through the airport and hoist it up into the overhead bin," Barnes said. "It turned out to be the best checked bag I've ever owned."

Best soft-side

This soft-side bag from Away is impressively durable. In our experience, soft-side luggage tends to be more resistant to scuffs and scratches than its hard-shell counterparts. Made from high-strength, water-repellent nylon, the Away Softside impressed us with its minimal, contemporary look. It also performed just as well, if not better, than hard-shell suitcases in tests on durability, capacity, and ease of use. It still looked good after flinging it across concrete, with no scratches, scuffs, rips, hardware damage. Lisa Sabatini, senior pets editor, reported that the hardware all worked smoothly and she was impressed with the durable design: "The nylon exterior feels especially durable, and the padded carry handles are made from the same material. The interior components feel just as well constructed as the exterior," she said.

Its one interior compartment is spacious. The capacity is spacious, with room for everything needed on our one-week packing list. There's one main compartment for clothes and larger items, as well as a top mesh panel pocket designed for smaller, slimmer items like socks and underwear. Each compartment opened and closed easily, and smaller items fit neatly inside without shifting. Should you require more space, an expansion zipper adds 1.75 inches, and a compression panel can help, too. While large, it didn't wobble or tip, and maneuvered well on all surfaces (including gravel — a rarity for any suitcase we test). It's also available in medium.

Our tester appreciated the exterior pockets. This suitcase also benefits from additional features that hardshell bags typically don't have, such as exterior padded pockets, which offer quick access to electronics or other travel necessities. There was just one hiccup: the TSA lock didn't work properly. However, with good customer service, this could likely be resolved, and we'd gladly recommend this bag to anyone who wants a soft-sided suitcase that's both functional and stylish.

Best lightweight

Antler prides itself on crafting lightweight, durable luggage. After extensively testing the Antler Icon Stripe Large was one of the largest and lightest bags we tested. Made from water-resistant recycled polycarbonate, it weighs just 10.8 pounds. "It is remarkably lightweight," confirmed Gabrielle Chase, senior associate style editor. "When it arrived, I was able to carry it up three flights of stairs effortlessly. It's larger than any other suitcase I've used, but it doesn't feel like it when you lift it. The shell is thin but doesn't warp."

It features smooth wheels and a spacious interior. With a maximum volume of 135 liters when expanded, the interior capacity is exceptionally generous. Our one-week list fit without problem, but we recommend using packing cubes to stay organized on longer trips since it only has three small interior zip pockets for items like socks and underwear. For shorter trips, we also recommend the medium size. It also has spinner wheels that rolled silently and smoothly over linoleum, cement, train aisle carpet, and icy concrete, as well as an adjustable comfort-grip handle, compression straps, a TSA-approved combination lock, and top and side carry handles. "The zippers, wheels and handle all function perfectly. I like that it has pegs on one side. You can place it on the ground horizontally without it tipping," added Chase.

It scuffed during testing. Nothing broke, but there were some noticeable scratches from where the shell impacted the concrete. Nevertheless, it's still be a top option for anyone who need a spacious suitcase that doesn't weigh a ton.

Best trunk

If you're going on a long trip, check out a trunk. Trunks are huge, roomy pieces of luggage for long trips that have a stylish, retro look. We tested multiple options, and the Carl Friedrik Trunk was the clear winner — and not just because it made us feel like we were about to board a fashionable ocean liner.

This premium bag features handy organizational features. Right away, everything about it appeared premium. The static handles are made out of leather, with additional leather trim around the top. Inside, the space seemed thoughtful and intentional. Made from German-engineered Makrolon polycarbonate, the shell resisted damage well. It has an 80/20 split design, which means the majority of items go in the bottom half, with smaller, slimmer items placed inside the portion up top. Unlike other trunks that inevitably become an indistinguishable pile, this trunk comes with three packing cubes and a collapsible insert to divide the main interior into three sections. A set of compression straps also helps keep everything in place, and smaller compartments zip shut, too.

It closes with three sturdy latches. Interestingly, the bag foregoes a zipper in favor of latches to lock the aluminum frame, which our tester preferred. "The main section is so, so roomy, and I had no problem fitting everything," said associate editor, Kinsley Searles. "The large interior has a set of compression straps without an annoying compression panel, and the smaller compartment zippers shut," Searles said. "But the most magical part was the lack of exterior zippers. I really hate the charade of sitting atop a suitcase and forcing a zipper closed, especially as an overpacker. Once this bag is packed, you just shut the top closed and latch the lid. That's it! I was initially skeptical that the latches would pop open during durability testing, but spoiler alert, they did not."

It get very heavy. Additionally, the 360-degree Hinomoto silent spinner wheels held up the trunk's weight without issue. Just keep in mind that trunks are meant to store your belongings for long trips and extended stays, so they get very heavy very quickly. It could be difficult for smaller people to maneuver and lift this bag, especially in tight spaces.

Best for extra space

This bag is designed to give you the most space. Many suitcases employ a wide variety of features to offer extra space, typically by way of an expandable zipper or compression panels. This Bagsmart Getaway suitcase provides both, but takes it a step further. Instead of the traditional clamshell design like most hard suitcases, this one has a side opening where one half pops open like a trunk, held in place by suspension straps with a bridge lid design. Inside, in place of equally sized suitcase halves, there's a 70/30 split, which means one is a deep well for clothes and large items, while the other has a reinforced zipper compartment to hold anything else.

It makes packing a breeze. I've owned this suitcase for the past six months and have been impressed by the capacity it offers, thanks to its unconventional design. The large main compartment holds all of my clothes without a tight squeeze, and I tuck my shoes and toiletry bags inside the smaller top portion. What's extra helpful are the multiple interior pockets. There are both mesh and PVC pockets intended to separate wet and dry items and store individual toiletries and small essentials. To maximize these pouches, I suggest foregoing a toiletry bag and placing individual bottles here, as the PVC protects against leaks. Doing so also removes the need to pack bulky toiletry bags. There's also a compression pane that has a built-in mesh pocket. If you need it, an expansion zipper provides an extra 1.58 inches of space, too.

It's a pleasure to use and sustained minimal damage during testing. Other thoughtful features include a handle with a built-in scale that flashes red when overweight, or a warning if you're close to that threshold. The adjustable telescopic handle also has four height settings, and I really like how the GlideTech 360-degree double spinner wheels are super smooth, and the shell has proven resistant to major dents and damage. It did initially mark-up easily when I threw it across concrete, but most everything wiped clean with a damp cloth or magic eraser aside from a few small scratches that I can live with. I think the 24-inch size is great for a five to seven day trip, though I'd upgrade to the larger 26-inch size for anything longer.

Best luxury

This suitcase is luxurious inside and out. Made from premium ultra-durable ballistic nylon, there's nothing malleable about this "soft" suitcase. I threw the Briggs & Riley Medium Expandable Spinner across my concrete driveway repeatedly, and not only did everything inside remain unbothered, most of the scuffs and dirt my experiment yielded were wiped away instantly with a damp towel.

It has a built-in garment sleeve. Inside, this suitcase instead has closer to an 80/20 split, including one main deep compartment on the bottom, while the top hides one of the most clever features I've ever seen inside a checked suitcase. At first glance, it appears to be a few zippered pockets, but if you unzip this portion, it unravels to reveal a built-in garment sleeve with a tri-fold design. I used it to pack a silk dress by securing my hanger to a loop, and running the dress under both a strap and a foam roll bar to keep it in place and prevent wrinkling. Longer items like suits and formal wear would fit well here too, and I estimate I could have packed a few dresses this way.

It expands with one touch. Another wow-worthy element is the expansion feature. Instead of forcing a zipper around the outside of the suitcase, a simple button pops open or closed to add space and then compress it back down. According to Briggs & Riley, it provides 22% more space. When I packed our weeklong list, I had ample room to spare. I was so impressed, I double checked that this was really the medium size and not the large. I could easily use this on a one to two week trip and gladly would, considering how wonderfully it packs. The 360-degree spinner wheels also make it a dream to maneuver. Really, the only consideration is the price. But if a splurge is in order, I'm not sure you'll do better.

What to look for in the best checked luggage

Not all checked bags are created equal. No matter what size or style you're shopping for, it's important to keep a few key considerations in mind to ensure your suitcase is a long-lasting investment.

Type: One of the first decisions you're likely to make when selecting checked luggage is whether you want a hard-shell or a soft-sided bag. Both have their benefits. For example, a soft-sided suitcase often has exterior pockets and features, while hard-shell bags lack them but tend to be more water resistant. Hard-shell bags also typically appear streamlined and contemporary, while soft shells can look a bit dated.

Wheels: It's important to consider the number of wheels, too. Some suitcases have just two, while others have four. A two-wheeled suitcase must be pulled, while a four-wheeled suitcase can be pushed or pulled in any direction. For that reason, a four-wheeled suitcase is our recommendation, as they glide easily, stand fully upright, and can navigate tight corners and many surfaces. At the same time, two-wheeled bags are less likely to roll away on an incline or slippery flooring. Sometimes, they have more packing room.

Capacity: Checked luggage usually comes in a medium or large size, both of which are ideal for a weeklong trip. Large checked bags are best for longer vacations or those who are prone to overpacking. Some suitcases split their capacity equally with two clamshells, while others, like the Bagsmart Getaway Check-in: Side-Opening, Carl Friedrik Trunk, or Briggs & Riley Medium Expandable Spinner, utilize a 70/30 or an 80/20 split that instead has one large deep compartment and another smaller portion.

One isn't better than the other — it really comes down to preference and the types of items you plan to pack. If I'm traveling for five to seven days, I'm more likely to choose a medium bag over a large one, and I might go with a traditional clamshell because I won't have as much stuff. For longer stints, I like deeper wells for better stacking, which I can then compress down with panels or straps, or open an expansion zipper. At the same time, all those space-saving features can leave you vulnerable to overweight fees if you cram in too much. If that's a concern, go with a medium size checked bag, as opposed to a larger, heavier one.

Organization: I swear by packing cubes for staying organized on long trips, but sometimes, my suitcase still becomes a jumbled mess. Even when my clothes are organized, there are still loose items to consider such as shoes, toiletries, or small accessories. That's why I recommend a checked suitcase with built-in organization elements like pockets, pouches, or sleeves.

Dimensions: While dimensions for checked suitcases may not be as heavily scrutinized as a carry-on, they're still important. If it's too large, you can be subject to oversized or overweight fees, and if it's too small, you might as well skip the baggage carousel and just take a carry-on. Each airline has their own rules when it comes to limits, but generally, most airlines cap checked luggage at 62 linear inches. That means the total length, width, and depth must equal 62 inches or less. Weight is also a consideration, as most airlines will charge a fee for any bag over 50 pounds. And, the larger the bag, the heavier it's likely to be when fully packed.

Warranty policies: While we always hope a new suitcase will last for years, that's not always the case, either due to user error or a design malfunction. For this reason, it's important to not only consider a generous return policy but also a good warranty. A warranty will cover unintended damage to zippers or wheels, faulty locks, or a cracked shell. Just keep in mind that even with brands offering a lifetime warranty, some situations, such as normal wear and tear or misuse may be excluded from the policy.

How we test the best checked luggage

Our testing methodology

Every single suitcase on this list was tested by a real traveler who filled their suitcase with an identical packing list and followed the same testing criteria. All picks listed here were selected based on their performance, and we will continue to test them in the future via our own travels. We tried a dozen suitcases during this round of testing, and we'll continually update this guide with new insights as we find new contenders. All suitcases followed our standard testing methodology, which considers packability, maneuverability, durability, price point, style, quality of materials, and added features.

• Packing list: Each suitcase was packed with the same exact packing list of items, down to an exact number of shirts or underwear. The list was designed specifically to hold everything you might need on a weeklong vacation, including different types of clothes, toiletries, and shoes to represent a range of items, shapes, and weights.
• Durability: To test the efficacy of each suitcase, every tester threw it repeatedly — at least five times to be exact — across a concrete surface to measure how it withstood or resisted damage and whether it resulted in scuffs, dents, or dings on the body or hardware.
• Maneuverability: Once fully-packed, each bag was pushed and pulled across a variety of surfaces including carpet, wood or vinyl floors, pavement, concrete, and even grass to see how the wheels and handle would hold up.
• Design features: We used and fully tested all design features, including organization pockets, TSA-approved locks, expansion zippers, and the like.

Meet the expert behind the guide

Emily Hochberg, freelance contributor: I'm the former Business Insider senior travel editor who specializes in covering all things travel. As a professional travel writer, I've tested dozens of suitcases in real-life settings ranging from carry-ons to duffels, backpacks, and checked bags of multiple sizes and designs. I tested multiple suitcases for this guide and designed the methodology based on my deep knowledge of product testing. I also combined my first-hand experience with BI's in-house testing team and their insights to round up the very best checked luggage choices for all types of travelers.

Best checked luggage FAQs

Should I travel with a checked bag or a carry-on?

TSA guidelines often dictate the best answer here. For example, even the lightest packers will have to check a bag if they want to pack large liquids over 3.4 ounces. Similarly, if your bag of choice exceeds carry-on approved measurements, it will need to be checked. Beyond that, for a weekend getaway or a trip under four days, a carry-on will suffice, while anything longer will usually warrant a checked bag.

Is it hard-shell or soft-side luggage better?

It one comes down to personal preference. Hard suitcases are the lightest, and are most often made from virtually indestructible polycarbonate, while soft ones are typically heavier and constructed from ultra-durable nylon. In our experience, while hard shells provide adequate protection, they're more likely to experience physical wear and tear, even after just a few trips. Soft-side bags, on the other hand, can be more durable, don't scuff as easily, and protect contents just as well. Either one from a reputable brand will do the job, but if you care deeply about physical appearance and keeping your suitcase looking as pristine as possible, we recommend a soft-sided suitcase. If you like a trendier look but don't mind a few scuffs, a hard shell is the way to go.

What is the most durable luggage for air travel?

With hard-shell bags, the most durable material is polycarbonate or aluminum. With soft-side luggage, look for high-strength nylon. In our experience, we've found these to be the most durable luggage materials for air travel, and they provide the same level of protection.

What should I avoid when buying luggage?

When selecting checked luggage, pay close attention to the suitcase's weight when empty. If it's extra large or weighed down by features, you're more likely to get stuck paying overweight fees. Also avoid materials that might damage easily, and check details like zippers and wheels to ensure they can hold up to heavy use.

What is the best way to clean checked luggage?

The best way to clean checked luggage on the outside is with either a magic eraser or a washcloth that can be dipped into mild soap and water. Both are effective at removing scuffs, dirt, and dust. For soft-sided luggage, you can also try spot cleaning with a fabric cleaner. To clean the inside, use a handheld vacuum to remove dirt and debris, spot treat any stains, try baking soda to remove odors, and always air dry completely.

What is the maximum weight of checked luggage?

While all airlines enforce their own rules, most limit each piece of checked luggage to 50 pounds or less.

What items are not allowed in checked luggage?

Certain dangerous items are never allowed within checked luggage, such as flammable items like lithium batteries, explosives, and some firearms. To be sure, check the full list of what is permitted and forbidden according to TSA.

What's the difference between a checked bag and a trunk?

The difference between a checked bag and a trunk relates to its shape, depth, and the way it opens. Standard checked suitcases usually open clamshell-style down the middle with two equally sized compartments, while trunks open with a hinged lid and usually have one main space for packing instead of two. Trunks may also be larger, and therefore heavier.

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