Choosing the perfect suitcase for your travels can feel overwhelming: big or small? Black or pink? Soft shell or hard shell? Do you need a cabin suitcase or a large suitcase? The list of questions is endless.
With more suitcase styles and trends taking the travel market by storm, it can be daunting — especially if you are up against a deadline for an upcoming holiday.
That is where I come in. As a travel writer, I am constantly jetting around the globe, from overnight stays in the UK to longer trips overseas. I have needed pretty much every size and shape of suitcase there is, so I know a thing or two about which one you should buy. Here, we advise you on how to find the very best suitcases with a range of features to suit any and all tastes.
What Type of Suitcase Do I Need?
The first question you will want to ask yourself is this: what size suitcase do you need? If you are mainly travelling long-haul or for prolonged periods, you will probably need to head straight for hold luggage. On the flip side, if you enjoy a city break, weekend away, or business trip, cabin luggage is for you.
Secondly, you will want to consider your budget. Finally, you will need to take into account any extra features that matter to you — security, style, colour, and compartments.
The main types I cover in this guide include:
- Hold luggage
- Cabin baggage
- Budget versions
- High-end prestige options
- Business suitcases
Your choice will depend on whether you need a big or small case for your upcoming travels.
Five Things to Consider When Buying a Suitcase
When comparing different types of luggage, a few key factors will help you find the right one. These are the five areas where people make mistakes most commonly, so make sure you get it right.
- Ease of use: Some models glide more seamlessly through the airport than others.
- Size and design: You will want to ensure it fits the requirements of your airline.
- Cost: Budget is an important factor.
- Features: Consider features you might want, such as a lock or laptop compartment.
- Material: Do you want a soft or hard shell?
Hold Luggage
Large suitcases, even at the best of times, are annoying. They are heavy, difficult to lug around an airport, and in many cases often bigger than the humans trying desperately to get them through the check-in desk before a long flight. But the travel experience can range from 'Margot Robbie gliding through the corridors of Heathrow' all the way to 'stressed family sprinting to make their flight'. Choosing good hold luggage is about combining space and practicality with design. Popular choices include the Horizn H7 RE Check-In Luggage.
Cabin Baggage
If you want something you can take on board with you and keep in sight, you will want cabin baggage. It is always worth noting with cabin baggage that different airlines have different recommendations — and not all cases will fit within requirements. Make sure you check before flying. EasyJet, for example, says: 'If you would also like to bring a large cabin bag on board (max. 56 x 45 x 25 cm, including any handles and wheels), you have the option to book a large cabin bag for your flight.' Ryanair, meanwhile, limits cabin baggage to a maximum of 10kg and a size of 55 x 40 x 20 cm. Great examples include the Kapten & Son Heathrow Cabin.
Budget Suitcases
You might also be after a more budget-friendly option. The good news is there are plenty on the market. The best large budget suitcase overall is the American Tourister Fast Forward suitcase. Meanwhile, if you want a smaller option, we would opt for the Rock Tulum Small Suitcase. It is worth noting, however, that there might be downsides to buying cheap. Firstly, you may not get the longevity of more premium models — some of which may come with a lifetime guarantee — meaning you may end up having to spend more later on to replace it. Plus, cheaper models might also take more of a battering while travelling.
High-End Prestige Suitcases
While Rimowa has dominated the market in recent years, Sterling Pacific is a real contender when it comes to luxury luggage. Check out their options if you want a real prestige purchase.
Business Suitcases
Business travellers — and anyone who travels regularly with a laptop or iPad — will certainly want to take a look at suitcases with a special laptop pocket. Antler’s Cabin with Pocket has all the standard requirements any traveller would require — but for me, it is the external laptop compartment that really sets this apart. Meanwhile, Carl Friedrik's Carry-On X includes a sleek, hard-shell front pocket designed for quick access to travel essentials such as laptops, passports, and chargers, ideal for business travellers or those who like to stay organised mid-journey.
Is It Better to Have Hard or Soft Shell Luggage?
Soft-shell cases can rip easily — hard-shell cases tend to be more durable. However, soft-shell cases can also be more flexible, so it depends what matters most to you.
How Much Should I Spend on a Suitcase?
Suitcases can vary wildly in price depending on the type and brand. They start at under £100 but can go into the thousands.
- Under £200: Budget-friendly options — that might not last quite as long.
- £200–£500: Reliable options that are good for most kinds of trips.
- £500–£750: Premium suitcases designed for those with luxury, business, or long-haul trips in mind.
- £1,000+: Top-of-the-range models that will only appeal to a select few.
What Is the Best Hold Luggage?
We love suitcases from Horizn, Victorinox, and American Tourister. But it depends what your priorities are. For instance, if you are looking for a durable case, perhaps for active holidays, Ogio's offerings might be better suited to your needs.
What Is the Difference Between a Cabin Bag and Hold Luggage?
The difference between these cases is the size. Cabin bags can, as the name suggests, be taken on board with you and placed in the cabin, provided they fit airline restrictions. Meanwhile, hold luggage must be checked in before a flight and stored in the hold during the journey.
