Created by an airline pilot, Travelpro has long been known for its well-built and thoughtful luggage. Travelpro mostly makes soft-side luggage and rightfully earned its spot as our top pick for the best soft-sided carry-on. I personally love the clear attention to detail that comes with a Travelpro bag, from the whisper-quiet spinner wheels to the tear-resistant material and sturdy buckles.
For a slightly more cost-effective (though still pricey) option, I particularly love the Essential Lite collection, which I named the best high-end hard-side carry-on thanks to the fact that it's incredibly durable but weighs less than five pounds. Unfortunately, if you're a fan of soft-sided suitcases, Rimowa is not the brand for you, and there aren't as many accessories available as some other brands. But Rimowa does also make weekenders, totes, packing cubes, and luggage tags.
Bric's is probably best known for its high-end Bellagio collection of luggage, both recognizable and revered for its durable, but ultra-light polycarbonate exterior with leather trim that gives it a nostalgic trunk feel. It's the little details that set this Italian brand apart, including Hinomoto wheels, matching interior linings, and premium zippers. That's why you've likely seen a luxury travel guru wheeling this bag through the airport, or, if you're an eagle-eyed "Schitt's Creek" fan, may have caught Alexis Rose using this collection to pack up her belongings.
Like Rimowa, Tumi luggage pieces are an investment. But they're a worthy one since these suitcases will likely last you years, if not decades. Combining a refined aesthetic with functionality and durability, Tumi has rightfully earned its place as a favorite among luxury travelers. With numerous options of all sizes for both hard-sided and soft-sided suitcases, Tumi has bags to suit just about all tastes.
Monos is a newer start-up that doesn't have as many suitcase options as the other luggage brands on our list, but it's worth mentioning since it's one of the best suitcases on the market with a hard front pocket that gives you an easy place to safely store laptops and extras. Monos suitcases are durable, come in an array of colors, and are well-priced. Plus, all of the luggage comes with a 100-day trial period and a limited lifetime warranty. The same brand also makes some of our favorite durable packing cubes.
The short answer is YES, luxury brands are cheaper in Hawaii than in mainland US. It is sometimes described as the best place to go luxury shopping outside of Europe because of these cheaper prices.
If you've ever travelled with a temperamental suitcase, you'll know that choosing the right style, size and quality of luggage can make all the difference to your journey. The best suitcase is one that is reliable, easy to carry and looks good. It can store everything you need for your trip while also surviving the wear and tear of the journey, from baggage claim to bumpy cobbled city streets. Not every suitcase is up to the task, which is why we've narrowed down the best styles to invest in, based on the best luggage brands featured in our Reader's Choice Awards.
There's a lot to consider when buying a suitcase, particularly in regards to carry on luggage restrictions as they vary greatly between airlines. In addition to weight and dimensions, the best type of suitcase depends on the kind of travel you are planning. If you're looking for a suitcase to take on weekend breaks to Europe, look for styles with durable wheels that can withstand rolling over cobblestone streets. If you're travelling long haul or with multiple stopovers, a hard case style is best for enduring the journey and keeping your belongings safe and secure.
Based on Vetted team recommendations and extensive research, as well as insights from Amy Brueckner, COO of the travel planning company CIRE Travel, we compiled a list of the best carry-on luggage for any trip. While we primarily focus on wheeled luggage, we also included some of our favorite backpacks and duffels that are designed to meet your on-the-go needs. Bon voyage!
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