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We rigorously tested 100 pieces of checked luggage to determine the best options for all travelers.
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Of course, narrowing down to a single pick isn’t necessarily the easiest process.
We also weighed other characteristics, such as organization features, aesthetic appeal, and value.
These are our top picks for the best checked luggage.
Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim
We examined the bags' storage capacity, organization systems, and zipper functionality.
Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim
Next up was maneuverability.
We rated each piece of luggages wheels, handles, and overall balance.
Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim
Finally, we subjected each bag to harsh durability tests.
We shoved each one off a countertop multiple times and struck it with a baseball bat repeatedly.
We then checked each suitcase for scuffs, dents, tears, and other types of damage.
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We also retested maneuverability to see how wheels and handles fared in the beating.
This is the complete list of checked luggage we have tested over time, results included.
Some bags are essentially just empty shells, which is prime for packers who love to usepacking cubes.
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Others provide interior organization systems within the suitcase itself via pockets or zipped sections.
The shell scuffs pretty easily, though major damage is rare.
The suitcase also has smooth maneuverability over a variety of surfaces, including carpet and gravel.
Overall, the Samsonite Winfield hit all the marks for an exceptional checked suitcase for all kinds of travelers.
We wish there were more pockets inside for organization.
“I think because it is so flexible, it gives with any pressure instead of denting.”
The suitcase has a T-style handle that is more comfortable to roll than a traditional, curved suitcase handle.
The handle was a little wobbly and hard to close at times.
All of the zippers glided smoothly during testing, both when the bag was empty and fully packed.
The softside material stood up to our baseball bat tests well, with no damage or wear.
It scuffed easily during testing.
We love the unique weight indicator feature that will let you know if your bag is over 50 pounds.
Something we didn’t like, however, was how easily the bag scuffed.
This suitcase doesnt expand, so you’re free to’t overpack it.
This large bag has plenty of storage space inside with separate laundry and shoe bags.
If you need even more space, Away also makes this suitcase ina larger version.
The best thing overpackers can do is get a suitcase with an expander.
This hardside suitcase has azipper expansionthat adds an extra 1.75 inches of space when you need it.
There aren’t many internal organizational features.
Inside, the bag is cavernous.
One more bonus that anyone can appreciate is the affordable price tag.
It can be easy to overpack and lead you over your airline’s weight limit.
Theres really only one word to describe the Travelpro VersaPack+ Large Check-in suitcase, and thatsmassive.
We stuffed this suitcase with two weeks worth of clothing and still had enough room to spare.
We think the packing cubes are a must, but you have to pay extra for them.
We also think that given the trunks large size, it could be easy to overpack.
That’s where a bag like this comes in handy.
Fans ofBriggs & Riley luggagewill appreciate this spacious duffel, which has a capacity of 96 liters.
It includes convenient straps like anormal duffel bagbut also a wheeled mechanism for easy transport.
This bag is optimal for rugged terrain it even handles gravel well.
And the durability of the 800D ballistic nylon is incredibly impressive.
If youre into neutrals, this is not the suitcase for you.
It lacks aesthetic flair, and it can be easy to overpack due to its size.
This SwissTech roller is quite spacious, with plenty of room for trips longer than one week.
Plus, it has a number of pockets both inside and outside that make organization effortless.
The aluminum corner bumpers tend to scuff easily.
It only has two wheels, which might take some getting used to.
That makesunpacking a breeze, since all you have to do is hang up everything already in your suitcase!
We love that it has a number of pockets for accessories, too, from shoes to belts.
One thing we particularly loved about this suitcase is its solid maneuverability.
They all had positive attributes, but a few things held them back.
Tumi Extended Trip Expandable 4 Wheeled Packing Case (softside.
Not to mention too heavy at 17.9 pounds!
But the bag’s style leaves something to be desired.
The bag was pretty easy to roll, but we wish the handle had more than two heights.
Check with your specific airline for its specific policies.
Generally, however, warranties are pretty limited in practice.
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