The best suitcases offer more than just practicality – they’re style statements in their own right. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or you’re gearing up for that one big holiday of the year, the luggage you wheel through the airport says as much about you as the outfits you’ve neatly packed inside. Indeed, no one wants their carefully planned city-break wardrobe overshadowed by a tired, scuffed-up case that’s seen better days. Your suitcase needs to pull its weight – both literally and figuratively.
Beyond aesthetics, a great suitcase is all about functionality. It should glide smoothly through crowded terminals, be lightweight enough to hoist onto that overhead rack, and durable enough to handle the not-so-gentle embrace of baggage handlers. (Ahem!) Extra points if it has clever features like expandable compartments or a built-in weight indicator to save you from dreaded excess charges. Because, we’ll be honest, packing light isn’t in our vocabulary, especially when holiday shopping is on the agenda.
And then there’s the sheer joy of owning a piece of luggage that just feels right. Whether it’s a glossy hard shell that screams chic minimalism or a soft-sided case with endless pockets to keep you organised, the best suitcases make travelling less of a hassle and more of an experience. Current luggage trends focus on sustainable materials, customisation, and quiet luxury – this one’s all about eschewing flashy labels and opting instead for refined style.
Investing in one of the best travel suitcases is undeniably wise – as long as you’ve got a luggage tracker in tow. Spend a little more on some top-quality luggage and your holiday companion will last you a lifetime, no matter how many trips along the trusty baggage carousel it takes (and scuffs it picks up along the way). So, we’ve rounded up the best suitcases from the best luxury luggage brands on the market to buy for your upcoming getaways – as loved by GLAMOUR editors, influencers and travel experts alike.
The best luggage brands 2025:
Based on overall quality, cost, aesthetics, durability and customer feedback, these are the luggage brands to know this year:
What should you look for in a suitcase?
When it comes to choosing a high-quality suitcase, it’s all about balancing practicality and style – after all, your luggage is like your travel sidekick. Whether you’re jetting off on a dreamy getaway or a whirlwind business trip, here’s what to keep in mind when picking the perfect case.
Size matters: Think about the kind of trips you usually take. If you’re a weekend warrior, a compact cabin bag might be enough, but longer holidays call for something with a bit more room. Always double-check airline size restrictions, especially for carry-on luggage, as they can vary wildly. No one wants that awkward gate-side repacking moment.
Lightweight but durable: A suitcase needs to be sturdy enough to survive being chucked onto a conveyor belt but light enough that you’re not sweating bullets before you’ve even started your trip. (The dreaded weight limit looms large). Materials like polycarbonate are great for hard-shell cases — they’re tough but won’t weigh you down. Fabric options are often lighter, but you’ll need to be mindful of scuffs and stains.
Compartments and Organisation: If you’re the kind of person who lives for neat packing cubes, look for a suitcase with built-in compartments. Interior dividers, zippered sections, and even a separate space for shoes can be lifesavers when you’re trying to stay organised on the go.
Security features: A built-in TSA-approved lock is a big plus – especially if your travel takes you through the States. It keeps your belongings safe but won’t cause a fuss with security. Bonus points if it comes with anti-theft zippers or hidden compartments.
What luggage is best, hard or soft?
It’s a matter of personal preference, though there’s definitely a preference for hard-shell luggage among the frequent travellers who reviewed the brands below.