The 9 Best Checked Luggage of 2025, Tested by Real People

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleHardside LuggageSoftside LuggageOther Checked Luggage We TriedWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

View All

In This Article

Hardside Luggage

Softside Luggage

Other Checked Luggage We Tried

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People

People

Most of us have at least one airport snafu story, and while it may be a fun moment to rehash after the fact, it’s certainly not enjoyable when it’s playing out in real time. Checked bags bring their own set of challenges since they leave your sight for most of your journey — which is why it’s essential to have durable, maneuverable, and well-designed checked luggage, whether you choose a hardside or softside option.

We tested nearly 40 hardside and softside bags in scenarios that mirror real life, from filling them with a week’s worth of clothing to dragging them across area rugs and gravel. We considered each bag’s capacity, overall design, maneuverability, and durability to determine the best checked luggage of 2025.

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage With Spinner WheelsPHOTO: Amazon$200 at Amazon$320 at Zola

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage With Spinner Wheels

PHOTO: Amazon

$200 at Amazon$320 at Zola

Star QualitiesLarge capacity and keeps its shape when stuffed to the brimEffortless maneuverability across different floor typesIncurred no scratches or dents in durability testRed FlagsWe couldn’t find any!

Star QualitiesLarge capacity and keeps its shape when stuffed to the brimEffortless maneuverability across different floor typesIncurred no scratches or dents in durability test

Large capacity and keeps its shape when stuffed to the brim

Effortless maneuverability across different floor types

Incurred no scratches or dents in durability test

Red FlagsWe couldn’t find any!

We couldn’t find any!

This Samsonite suitcase — our top-performing option on this list — could handle it all, full stop. Even when we stuffed this bag to its maximum capacity, it maintained its shape and size. Also, its compression feature keeps everything as compact as possible, and its divider separates clean clothes from used items.

To test this suitcase’s durability, we hit it with a baseball bat (really!) and shoved it off a counter for good measure. It stayed intact without a single scratch or dent. FYI, most polycarbonate luggage scuffs a little when roughly handled, but these marks are easy to buff away.

Also, when we tested how this suitcase moved across different surfaces, including carpet and simulated gravel, it rolled seamlessly every time. Plus, we loved how its sturdy handles made it even easier to maneuver. While not the priciest option on this list, this suitcase is a bit more expensive, but the price reflects its high-quality construction.

Dimensions:31.0 x 20.0 x 12.75 inches |Weight:11.5 pounds |Material:100% polycarbonate construction |Colors:14 |Expandable:Yes|Features:Side-mounted TSA locks, compression feature, divider for organization, expansion feature

PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: TripSavvyPHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People

Béis The 29-inch Large Check-in RollerPHOTO: Beis$328 at NordstromView on Beistravel.com

Béis The 29-inch Large Check-in Roller

PHOTO: Beis

$328 at NordstromView on Beistravel.com

Star QualitiesComes with a weight indicatorSpacious with many pockets and compartments for easy organizationWheels easily glided across hard floors and carpetRed FlagsShowed scuff marks during our durability test, though this may not be an issue with darker shades

Star QualitiesComes with a weight indicatorSpacious with many pockets and compartments for easy organizationWheels easily glided across hard floors and carpet

Comes with a weight indicator

Spacious with many pockets and compartments for easy organization

Wheels easily glided across hard floors and carpet

Red FlagsShowed scuff marks during our durability test, though this may not be an issue with darker shades

Showed scuff marks during our durability test, though this may not be an issue with darker shades

Béis, the brainchild of actress Shay Mitchell, is a widely popular travel brand, and this suitcase is a true classic — one of our top two performers on this list. Its large size fit everything on our packing list with space left over, and it has interior pockets for easy organization. It also comes with two drawstring bags (for laundry or other accessories). It expands for extra room, and its zippers have a super smooth closure.

In our durability tests, this Béis suitcase did get slightly scuffed, but it protected everything inside. Testing its set of four spinner wheels, we noted that the bag glided easily across a carpet and hard floors, but it needed a little help on gravel.

This suitcase also has a passcode lock for added security (TSA-approved!) and a strap on the front for attaching a carry-on (which securely held our purse). Plus, there’s a weight indicator, so you can know if your bag will exceed your airline’s weight limit ahead of time.

How It’s Held UpWe’ve been traveling with this Béis bag for six months, and it remains a favorite. Its hard case has protected our belongings without fail, and its roomy capacity and interior pockets make it easy to stay organized.

How It’s Held Up

We’ve been traveling with this Béis bag for six months, and it remains a favorite. Its hard case has protected our belongings without fail, and its roomy capacity and interior pockets make it easy to stay organized.

Dimensions:31.3 x 19.7 x 12.5 inches |Weight:11.84 pounds |Material:Polycarbonate PVC polyester |Colors:6 |Expandable:Yes |Features:TSA-compatible lock, weight limit indicator

PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People

Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-in Expandable Hardside SpinnerPHOTO: Amazon$470$400 at Amazon$470$376 at Travelpro.com$376 at Bloomingdales

Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-in Expandable Hardside Spinner

$470$400 at Amazon$470$376 at Travelpro.com$376 at Bloomingdales

Star QualitiesSuper maneuverable on rugs, gravel, and all bumpsAced our durability testTop-notch internal organization with a water-resistant pocket and zippered panelsExpandableRed FlagsPricey, though it’s super high-quality

Star QualitiesSuper maneuverable on rugs, gravel, and all bumpsAced our durability testTop-notch internal organization with a water-resistant pocket and zippered panelsExpandable

Super maneuverable on rugs, gravel, and all bumps

Aced our durability test

Top-notch internal organization with a water-resistant pocket and zippered panels

Expandable

Red FlagsPricey, though it’s super high-quality

Pricey, though it’s super high-quality

Hardside luggage is often the most durable type of suitcase and this Travelpro bag is proof. Case in point: We shoved it off a countertop and took multiple swings at it with a baseball bat, and there were only a few scuff marks after (no dents or dings). Its spinner wheels also allowed for easy maneuverability, and it rolled over bumps, rugs, and gravel smoothly.

This bag is also quite spacious; it includes an expansion zipper for even more room if needed.  Despite the bag’s lack of external pockets, we found there was plenty of space for our travelclothes, shoes, andtoiletry bags. It also has straps and zippered panels on either side of the case to prevent things from shifting in transit, as well as a water-resistant pocket for dirty or wet clothing. Lastly, it’s quite sleek, making it a functional and stylish hardside luggage option.

How It’s Held UpThe Travelpro Platinum has held up well on several trips during the past six months. We took it on an eight-day trip that included train travel, weddings, and sightseeing, and we found it to be durable, stylish, and spacious. Plus, it still looks as good as new, with only minor signs of wear and tear. One thing to note is that it weighs around 12 pounds, which is heavier than some of its similar-sized counterparts.

The Travelpro Platinum has held up well on several trips during the past six months. We took it on an eight-day trip that included train travel, weddings, and sightseeing, and we found it to be durable, stylish, and spacious. Plus, it still looks as good as new, with only minor signs of wear and tear. One thing to note is that it weighs around 12 pounds, which is heavier than some of its similar-sized counterparts.

Dimensions:30 x 18 x 13.5 inches |Weight:12.3 pounds |Material:Polycarbonate shell |Colors:5 |Expandable:Yes |Features:TSA-compatible lock, water-resistant pocket

PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People

July 26-inch Checked BagPHOTO: JulyView on July.com

July 26-inch Checked Bag

PHOTO: July

View on July.com

Star QualitiesWeighs less than 10 pounds when emptyComes with a dust bag and a instructions pamphletDespite its medium size, it’s spacious and features several compartments for added organizationRed FlagsGot some marks and dings during our durability testsWheels caught a bit on carpet and gravel flooring

Star QualitiesWeighs less than 10 pounds when emptyComes with a dust bag and a instructions pamphletDespite its medium size, it’s spacious and features several compartments for added organization

Weighs less than 10 pounds when empty

Comes with a dust bag and a instructions pamphlet

Despite its medium size, it’s spacious and features several compartments for added organization

Red FlagsGot some marks and dings during our durability testsWheels caught a bit on carpet and gravel flooring

Got some marks and dings during our durability tests

Wheels caught a bit on carpet and gravel flooring

When it comes to checked bags, the lighter, the better. This July bag weighs less than 10 pounds when empty, but despite its small size, it has many compartments for added organization, as well as a compression pad to help you store a decent amount of clothing. We also liked that it arrived with a dust bag to store it in when not in use.

How It’s Held UpIn three months with this bag, we traveled throughout the U.S., as well as to South America and Antarctica. While it’s on the smaller side for a checked bag, its size made it easier to stay under the 50-pound weight limit. Although it showed signs of wear (scratches on the metallic corners and scuffs on the case), this was expected due to its light color and matte finish.

In three months with this bag, we traveled throughout the U.S., as well as to South America and Antarctica. While it’s on the smaller side for a checked bag, its size made it easier to stay under the 50-pound weight limit. Although it showed signs of wear (scratches on the metallic corners and scuffs on the case), this was expected due to its light color and matte finish.

Dimensions:26 x 18.75 x 11 inches |Weight:8.3 pounds |Material:Polycarbonate shell |Colors:16 |Expandable:No |Features:Personalization, TSA-compatible lock

PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People

Paravel Aviator Grand Checked LuggagePHOTO: Amazon$545 at AmazonView on Tourparavel.com$545 at Bloomingdales

Paravel Aviator Grand Checked Luggage

$545 at AmazonView on Tourparavel.com$545 at Bloomingdales

Star QualitiesComprised of entirely recycled materialsFit everything we packed with ample leftover spaceRed FlagsIncurred minor dings and scuffs after our durability tests, despite the brand’s scuff-free material claimWe think it might be a bit overpriced

Star QualitiesComprised of entirely recycled materialsFit everything we packed with ample leftover space

Comprised of entirely recycled materials

Fit everything we packed with ample leftover space

Red FlagsIncurred minor dings and scuffs after our durability tests, despite the brand’s scuff-free material claimWe think it might be a bit overpriced

Incurred minor dings and scuffs after our durability tests, despite the brand’s scuff-free material claim

We think it might be a bit overpriced

We’ll call it like it is: This bag is downright Instagrammable. We especially love its faux leather details and the fact it’s made with recycled materials, as well as the brand’s promise of carbon-neutral production. In terms of capacity, this suitcase fits everything we packed with plenty of extra space; its sides are deep and include zippered sections for added organization.

This suitcase boasts a textured finish to prevent scuffs, but we saw a few tiny marks after both of our durability tests, though it protected its contents every time. It feels sturdy on the go, too — its wheels rolled beautifully around our “airport” setup, navigating various cones, bumps, and across different floor types (though it did catch slightly on gravel). While this bag is stunning, it doesn’t stand out from others on our list in terms of features, so its price could be a dealbreaker for some.

How It’s Held UpAfter one month of use (including a 12-day trip to Peru), we found this bag helpful for a long trip where we needed to pack several bulky items. While its overall capacity was smaller than we expected, we were able to pack everything into its two large compartments, and its large zippered pocket was useful for storing dirty laundry. Although it sustained a few scratches and scuffs, it still looked good after being checked six times.

After one month of use (including a 12-day trip to Peru), we found this bag helpful for a long trip where we needed to pack several bulky items. While its overall capacity was smaller than we expected, we were able to pack everything into its two large compartments, and its large zippered pocket was useful for storing dirty laundry. Although it sustained a few scratches and scuffs, it still looked good after being checked six times.

Dimensions:18.25 x 28 x 11 inches |Weight:11.8 pounds |Material:Recycled polycarbonate, recycled aluminum, recycled zippers, vegan leather, and nylon lining made from plastic bottles |Colors:5 |Expandable:No |Features:Removable laundry bag, TSA-compatible lock

Roam Check-InPHOTO: RoamView on Roamluggage.com

Roam Check-In

PHOTO: Roam

View on Roamluggage.com

Complete customization on every inch of the bag

Incurred no signs of impact during durability tests

Red FlagsNot as spacious as other bags, though it comes with compression boardsPricier than others on our list

Not as spacious as other bags, though it comes with compression boards

Pricier than others on our list

For those who appreciate the art of customization, this suitcase lets you choose every color on every part of the bag, including the lining, wheels, and zipper, as well as a monogram patch. While we appreciate its compact design, we do wish it had a slightly larger capacity. That said, it comes with compression boards to pack as compactly as possible.

In our durability tests, this bag proved to be super sturdy with no scuffs or destruction. Plus, it was extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver on smooth surfaces and gravel, and its waterproof zipper added protection on rainy travel days. Although this bag has a higher price tag, we vote that it’s worth it for its performance and unparalleled customization options.

How It’s Held UpDuring the past three months, we’ve taken this bag on flights and road trips, and its performance impressed us. (We think it’s a good size for a week-long trip or even a bit longer.) Even though it wasn’t scratch-proof, we recommend it for those looking to invest in a customizable piece of luggage that holds up well and is easy to maneuver.

During the past three months, we’ve taken this bag on flights and road trips, and its performance impressed us. (We think it’s a good size for a week-long trip or even a bit longer.) Even though it wasn’t scratch-proof, we recommend it for those looking to invest in a customizable piece of luggage that holds up well and is easy to maneuver.

Dimensions:26 x 17.5 x 10.5 inches |Weight:9.3 pounds |Material:Polycarbonate shell |Colors:9 |Expandable:Yes |Features:TSA-compatible lock, compression boards, customization

PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People

Nex Hawaii Edition NavigatorPHOTO: NexView on Meetnex.com

Nex Hawaii Edition Navigator

PHOTO: Nex

View on Meetnex.com

Star QualitiesStylish design is sure to make a statement throughout your travelsErgonomic handle and spinner wheels make pulling this suitcase a breezePasscode lock offers added securitySpacious interior offers tons of space for long tripsRed FlagsWe couldn’t find any!

Star QualitiesStylish design is sure to make a statement throughout your travelsErgonomic handle and spinner wheels make pulling this suitcase a breezePasscode lock offers added securitySpacious interior offers tons of space for long trips

Stylish design is sure to make a statement throughout your travels

Ergonomic handle and spinner wheels make pulling this suitcase a breeze

Passcode lock offers added security

Spacious interior offers tons of space for long trips

If you’re looking for a suitcase for long trips, this colorful Nex suitcase will store everything you need for extended travel. It’s designed to hold up to two weeks' worth of clothing and its modest weight means you won’t exceed any weight limits. Best of all, this suitcase is an accessory in and of itself. Dare we say, you’ll even be excited to pack!

As far as durability goes, its polycarbonate exterior is extra tough and performed well in our tests. While polycarbonate tends to scuff, these marks shouldn’t be too difficult to buff away, and we haven’t noticed any prominent wear and tear.

Overall, this suitcase’s thoughtful design and special features — from its passcode lock to its statement-making style — give it a luxurious feel that sets it apart from others on the market

“I’ve tested a lot of luggage, and nowadays, I don’t see a ton of variation, but this checked option from Nex is gorgeous. Also, its handle is the most ergonomic I’ve ever encountered, and it’s also very lightweight. Even hotel staff members have complimented me on this checked bag!"—Erin Johnson, associate editorial director

Dimensions:30 x 21 x 11 inches |Weight:10 pounds |Material:Polycarbonate |Colors:4 |Expandable:No |Features:TSA-compatible lock, storage package, spinner wheels

Briggs & Riley ZDX Medium Upright Duffel BagPHOTO: Bloomingdales$499 at Amazon$499 at Nordstrom$499 at Briggs-riley.com

Briggs & Riley ZDX Medium Upright Duffel Bag

PHOTO: Bloomingdales

$499 at Amazon$499 at Nordstrom$499 at Briggs-riley.com

Star QualitiesExtremely durable fabric that aced our durability testsVery lightweightWheels can navigate gravel, hard surfaces, and carpets with easeRed FlagsPricey

Star QualitiesExtremely durable fabric that aced our durability testsVery lightweightWheels can navigate gravel, hard surfaces, and carpets with ease

Extremely durable fabric that aced our durability tests

Very lightweight

Wheels can navigate gravel, hard surfaces, and carpets with ease

Red FlagsPricey

Pricey

Made of ballistic nylon that’s extremely difficult to damage, this duffel bag-style checked luggage is without a doubt the most durable of any we tested. In fact, even when we vigorously pushed this duffel off a countertop and hit it with a baseball bat, it showed absolutely zero wear and tear. Additionally, its wheels maneuvered easily across hard surfaces, carpet, and gravel, and it felt super lightweight on the go.

This bag’s design also lends itself to durability, available in two dark colors that don’t easily show dirt or scuffs. It also comes with three different-sized compartments to help you organize your clothes, shoes, and toiletries, and its interior is really spacious, with straps to help keep everything in place. It’s definitely expensive, but we vote that its quality makes it worth the investment for longer trips.

Dimensions:25.75 x 15 x 14 inches |Weight:8.6 pounds |Material:Ballistic nylon |Colors:2 |Expandable:No |Features:Monogramming

Tumi Alpha Short Trip Expandable Packing CasePHOTO: Tumi$1,195 at Amazon$1,195 at NordstromView on Tumi.com

Tumi Alpha Short Trip Expandable Packing Case

PHOTO: Tumi

$1,195 at Amazon$1,195 at NordstromView on Tumi.com

Star QualitiesTSA-compliant zippered security feature for extra protectionExtensive capacity and storage with varying-sized pockets for organization, including a removable garment sleeveIncludes a unique tracer number for easy locatingRed FlagsBy far the most expensive bag on our listHeavy (15.4 pounds)

Star QualitiesTSA-compliant zippered security feature for extra protectionExtensive capacity and storage with varying-sized pockets for organization, including a removable garment sleeveIncludes a unique tracer number for easy locating

TSA-compliant zippered security feature for extra protection

Extensive capacity and storage with varying-sized pockets for organization, including a removable garment sleeve

Includes a unique tracer number for easy locating

Red FlagsBy far the most expensive bag on our listHeavy (15.4 pounds)

By far the most expensive bag on our list

Heavy (15.4 pounds)

First off, we appreciated its capacity — which fit many items of varying sizes during our tests — as well as the fact that its zippers worked seamlessly. It also comes well-equipped with special features, including a TSA-compliant security zipper for added protection, extensive pockets, a removable garment sleeve, and an expandable exterior with bumper rails. Plus, each bag comes with a unique tracer number for easy recovery.

During our durability assessment, this bag only sustained minor injuries: some dirty marks but no dents or scuffs. We noticed it was rather heavy when empty, which could get you to the 50-pound weight limit faster than preferred, but it was easy to maneuver, though its wheels did stick a little when we ran it over gravel.

Overall, we think this Tumi option is a highly functional (and fashionable) bag that would work for long or short trips. While it is expensive, if it’s within your budget, we think it’s a worthwhile investment for a seasoned traveler.

How It’s Held UpAfter six months of regular use, we are beyond impressed with this Tumi bag. We traveled with it on a 10-day trip to Australia and were able to pack four pairs of shoes on its smaller side and all of our clothing and toiletries on its larger side, with room to spare. Its exterior still looks nearly new with just a few scuff marks on the rubber accent pieces. Our only issue with the bag is the wheels, which seem to favor one side.

After six months of regular use, we are beyond impressed with this Tumi bag. We traveled with it on a 10-day trip to Australia and were able to pack four pairs of shoes on its smaller side and all of our clothing and toiletries on its larger side, with room to spare. Its exterior still looks nearly new with just a few scuff marks on the rubber accent pieces. Our only issue with the bag is the wheels, which seem to favor one side.

Dimensions:26 x 19 x 13 inches |Weight:15.4 pounds |Material:Ballistic nylon |Colors:3 |Expandable:Yes |Features:TSA-compatible lock, customization, Tumi tracer, security zipper

Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 28-inch Large Checked Spinner: There are lots of reasons to love the Chatelet Air 2.0, including its elegant exterior, lightweight shell, smooth-rolling wheels, and zippered compression flaps on both halves of its clamshell. However, over six months of use, it incurred several scratches and scuff marks, and we felt that its higher price point may not be worth the investment.

What to Know About Checked Luggage

Durability

Checked luggage sees a lot of manhandling; therefore, it needs to have a thick skin. The material, size, and type of suitcase will all contribute to its overall durability and will ultimately determine how many trips it will take in its lifetime.

Transportation Security Administration regional spokesperson Lisa Farbstein tells PEOPLE that the TSA is “able to screen all checked baggage,” so that means most materials are fair game. In terms of size and material, if you travel more frequently, you might prefer a smaller hard-shelled suitcase for easy mobility and long-term durability, but infrequent fliers might prioritize design and capacity.

A hardshell suitcase made with hard plastic like polycarbonate might scratch, but it won’t have the same long-term damage that a soft suitcase will — such as tears, rips, and material wearing down over time. Hard-sided luggage is also more water-resistant, so you can relax if it happens to be pouring rain when they’re unloading your suitcase from the plane. Some highly durable picks on our list include theBriggs & Riley Medium Wheeled Duffeland theRoam Check-In.

Design

The design of a suitcase is important because it will determine storage and capacity, ease of maneuvering around an airport, and overall use. Spinner wheels are one design element intended to make it easier to pull your luggage around and usually come in a set of four. This distributes the weight of your luggage better, so you’re not straining to move it around. Most luggage also has various compartments and zippered pockets to help you keep your belongings organized during travel, like theBéis Large Check-In Rollerand theParavel Aviator Grand Checked.

Price

Luggage can have price tags that will make your eyes widen, but you don’t have to overspend to find quality suitcases. We do have some pricier options on our list, but we’ve also included many more affordable options, such as our best overall pick, theSamsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage.

We set out to test checked luggage in scenarios that mirror real life.

Considering all of that, we looked at what each bag offers and at what price and determined the overall value. Using these insights, we chose our favorite checked luggage for this list.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re someone who re-wears, rotates, and remixes your clothing pieces throughout a trip, you can probably get away with a smaller to medium-sized suitcase. However, if you like to bring a shoe option for every day of the week, then a large or even extra-large suitcase will give you the storage space you need.

In terms of durability, a hardshell suitcase like theTravelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In Expandable Hardside Spinneris a safer bet to ensure your belongings get to your destination in one piece, but durability is not the only consideration when traveling. If you’re an overpacker, an expandable suitcase might be the better choice, in which case soft-sided luggage would be best, like theSwissTech Executive 8-Wheel Softside Luggage. As Farbstein says, TSA doesn’t have a preference for either type of bag, so this is up to your personal preference.

Meet Our ExpertLisa Farbsteinis the regional spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration.

Meet Our Expert

Lisa Farbsteinis the regional spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com