The Best Checked Luggage for Your Trip

Traveling can be a lot of fun, but it can also be stressful if you don't have the right luggage. Whether you're going on a short weekend getaway or a long international adventure, you want a suitcase that can fit all your essentials, protect them from damage, and be easy to maneuver. That's why choosing the best checked luggage is important for your travel experience.

Checked luggage is any suitcase that exceeds the size or weight limits for carry-on luggage and has to be checked in at the airport. The advantage of checked luggage is that it offers more space and flexibility for packing, especially if you're traveling for a longer period of time or need to bring bulky items like coats, shoes, or sports equipment. The downside is that you have to pay extra fees for checking your bag, wait for it at baggage claim, and risk losing it or having it damaged by mishandling.

Our Top Picks

So how do you choose the best checked luggage for your trip? There are many factors to consider, such as size, weight, material, design, features, durability, and price. To help you narrow down your options, we have compiled a list of our top picks for the best checked luggage based on customer reviews and expert recommendations. Here are our favorites:

1. Best Overall: Travelpro Maxlite 5

This soft-sided suitcase is lightweight, spacious, and sturdy, with smooth-rolling wheels and a telescoping handle. It has a roomy main compartment that expands up to 2 inches for extra packing capacity, as well as multiple exterior and interior pockets for organization. It also comes with a built-in TSA lock and a limited lifetime warranty.

2. Best Hard Case: Delsey Helium Aero

This hard-shell suitcase is sleek, stylish, and durable, with a polycarbonate exterior that resists scratches and impacts. It has four spinner wheels that glide effortlessly in any direction and a comfortable handle that adjusts to different heights. It has a spacious interior with two compartments separated by a zippered divider and compression straps to keep your clothes neat. It also has an integrated TSA lock and a 10-year warranty.

3. Best Splurge: Briggs & Riley Baseline Large

This premium suitcase is expensive but worth it if you want quality and convenience. It has a patented CX expansion-compression system that allows you to increase the packing space by up to 25% and then compress it back down to its original size.

It has four spinner wheels that rotate 360 degrees and a durable handle that locks into three positions. It has a large interior with garment panels and mesh pockets, as well as an exterior pocket that can fit a laptop or tablet. It also has a built-in TSA lock and a lifetime guarantee that covers any damage.

4. Best Duffel with Wheels: Eagle Creek Gear Warrior

This versatile bag can be used as a duffel or a wheeled suitcase, depending on your preference. It has a large main compartment with compression straps and internal pockets, as well as an expandable secondary compartment that can fit shoes or dirty clothes.

It has two oversized wheels that roll smoothly over any terrain and a sturdy handle that retracts into a protective housing. It also has multiple grab handles, lash points, and reflective accents for easy handling and visibility. It also comes with a lifetime warranty.

5. Best for Versatility: Timbuk2 Quest

This hybrid bag combines the best features of a duffel and a backpack, giving you more options for carrying your luggage. It has a spacious main compartment with internal mesh dividers and external compression straps, as well as two zippered end pockets for quick access items. It has two smooth-rolling wheels and a retractable handle for easy mobility.

Things to Consider

If you are looking for the best checked luggage for your next trip, you might be overwhelmed by the number of options available. How do you choose the right one for your needs and preferences? In this blog post, we will give you some tips and factors to consider when shopping for checked luggage.

• One of the most important things to consider is the size and weight of your luggage. You want to make sure that your luggage meets the airline's requirements and does not exceed the limit. Otherwise, you might have to pay extra fees or even leave some items behind. The standard size for checked luggage is 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and the weight limit is usually 50 pounds. However, some airlines may have different rules, so always check before you fly.

• Another thing to consider is the durability and quality of your luggage. You want to choose a luggage that can withstand the rough handling and possible damages during transit. Look for a luggage that has a sturdy frame, strong zippers, smooth wheels, and a reliable handle. You might also want to opt for a hard-sided luggage if you have fragile or valuable items in your suitcase.
• The third thing to consider is the style and design of your luggage. This is a matter of personal preference and taste, but you might want to choose a luggage that reflects your personality and matches your travel style. You can also look for a luggage that has some unique features, such as expandability, compartments, locks, or tags. These can help you organize your belongings better and keep them secure.

FAQs

Q: How do I clean my checked luggage?

A: You can use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the exterior of your luggage. For stains or dirt, you can use a mild soap or detergent and gently scrub the affected area. For the interior, you can vacuum or shake out any dust or debris. You can also use a disinfectant spray or wipes to sanitize your luggage.

Q: How do I protect my checked luggage from theft or loss?

A: You can use a TSA-approved lock to secure your zipper and prevent anyone from opening your luggage without your permission. You can also use a luggage tag or label to identify your luggage and provide your contact information in case it gets lost or misplaced. You can also track your luggage with a GPS device or app that you can attach to your suitcase.

Q: How do I pack my checked luggage efficiently?

A: You can use packing cubes or bags to separate and organize your clothes and accessories. You can also roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and prevent wrinkles. You can also pack heavier items at the bottom and lighter items at the top of your suitcase. You can also leave some space for souvenirs or items that you might buy during your trip.

Conclusion

Choosing the best checked luggage for your trip can be easy if you follow these tips and factors. You want to consider the size and weight, the durability and quality, and the style and design of your luggage. You also want to check the airline's requirements and regulations before you fly. By doing so, you can enjoy a hassle-free and comfortable travel experience with your checked luggage.