Best Luggage for Every Trip: Your 2025 Guide
April 29, 2025

Choosing luggage isn't as simple as picking the prettiest suitcase off the shelf anymore. A weekend city break, a long-haul international flight, a cross-country road trip. Each type of travel demands something different from your luggage. Lightweight maneuverability, extra durability, smart tech features, or simply more room. What you need can change with every trip you take.
✈️ Quick Tip: Airlines are getting stricter with size and weight limits. Always double-check your carrier’s rules before buying new luggage.
Find the Best Luggage for Your Trip
- Best Lightweight Luggage: Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner
- Best Carry-On Luggage: Away The Carry-On
- Best Checked Luggage: Briggs & Riley Baseline Expandable Spinner
- Best Budget Luggage: Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner
- Best Smart Luggage: July Carry-On
- Best Luggage for Business Travel: TUMI Alpha 4 Expandable International Carry-On
- Best Luggage for Family Trips: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner
- How to Choose the Best Luggage for Your Trip
- Find Your Perfect Travel Companion
Best Lightweight Luggage: Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner

- 🧳 Ultra-light yet highly impact-resistant polycarbonate shell
- 🛞 Double spinner wheels for smooth 360° rolling
- 🔒 Built-in TSA-approved combination lock
- ✈️ Expandable design for extra packing space
- 🎨 Available in multiple colors to suit different styles
BUY 🛒
What makes it different ?Unlike many hardshell suitcases that add unnecessary weight, the Samsonite Freeform manages to stay feather-light without feeling flimsy. The smooth-rolling wheels and expandable zipper give it a huge edge for travelers who often find themselves darting between gates or squeezing into packed overhead bins.
Potential Downsides:- The glossy finish can scratch with heavy handling (normal for polycarbonate)
- Slightly less roomy than some heavier competitors
If you're hunting for the best luggage that offers durability, style, and weight-saving all in one package, the Samsonite Freeform is an easy top pick.
Best Carry-On Luggage: Away The Carry-On

- 🧳 Unbreakable polycarbonate shell
- 🔋 Built-in ejectable USB charger (TSA-compliant)
- 🛞 360° spinner wheels for ultra-smooth movement
- 🧼 Interior compression system and hidden laundry bag
- 🌎 Minimalist design available in multiple finishes and limited editions
BUY 🛒
What makes it different ?The Away Carry-On isn’t just about looks — it’s packed with practical details that frequent travelers actually use. The interior compression system helps maximize space, and the removable battery keeps your phone charged during long travel days. Plus, the brand’s lifetime warranty shows real confidence in durability.
Potential Downsides:- Premium price tag compared to similar-size carry-ons
- Some airlines with stricter carry-on size limits may require gate-checking
If you’re looking for the best luggage option for efficient, stylish short trips, Away’s signature Carry-On is still the gold standard going into 2025.
Best Checked Luggage: Briggs & Riley Baseline Expandable Spinner

- 🧳 Ballistic nylon exterior that's resistant to water, dirt, and abrasion
- ✈️ CX™ Expansion-Compression System adds 25% more packing space, then compresses back down
- 🛞 Smooth-rolling spinner wheels and sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum handle
- 🧼 Built-in garment holder to keep clothes wrinkle-free
- 🛠️ Lifetime repair guarantee even for airline damage
BUY 🛒
What makes it different ?Briggs & Riley doesn’t just build suitcases. They engineer them for serious travelers. The unique CX expansion system actually lets you overpack, then compress back down to a manageable size. Plus, their lifetime guarantee (no fine print, even for airline damage) is nearly unmatched in the luggage industry.
Potential Downsides:- Higher price tag, definitely an investment piece
- More traditional styling may not appeal to those who prefer a sleek modern look
For travelers who need their checked luggage to be as tough as the trips they take, the Baseline Expandable Spinner easily ranks among the best luggage choices available today.
Best Budget Luggage: Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner

- 🧳 Durable ABS hardshell exterior
- 🛞 Smooth-rolling double spinner wheels
- ✈️ Fully lined interior with divider and compression straps
- 📏 Available in 21", 24", and 28" sizes
- 🎨 Simple design with multiple color options
BUY 🛒
What makes it different ?The Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner proves you don't have to sacrifice functionality for affordability. While it doesn't have the fancy features of higher-end models, it covers all the essentials. Durability, easy maneuverability, and smart interior organization at a price that's hard to beat.
Potential Downsides:- Material quality isn’t as high as premium brands
- Zippers and handles can feel less sturdy under heavy use
If you need a reliable, no-frills option among the best luggage picks for 2025, Amazon Basics offers serious value for the money.
Best Smart Luggage: July Carry-On

- 🔋 Removable and airline-approved battery pack for device charging
- 🛞 Silent 360° spinner wheels with shock absorption
- 🎒 Snap-on detachable laptop sleeve for quick airport access
- 🧳 Aerospace-grade German polycarbonate shell
- 🧼 Hidden laundry bag and interior compression system
BUY 🛒
What makes it different ?The July Carry-On Pro goes beyond basic travel needs with genuinely useful tech features. The external laptop sleeve is a game changer for business travelers, making airport security checks faster and more convenient. Combined with a power bank and a lightweight yet ultra-durable shell, it’s one of the smartest investments for modern travelers.
Potential Downsides:- Slightly heavier than some other carry-ons due to added features
- Premium pricing for a carry-on size
For travelers who demand more than just wheels and zippers from their suitcase, the July Carry-On easily earns its place among the best luggage options for 2025.
Best Luggage for Business Travel: TUMI Alpha 4 Expandable International Carry-On

- 🛡️ Ultra-tough ballistic nylon construction
- 🛞 Four dual-spinner wheels for smooth, controlled movement
- 🖇️ Integrated USB port (power bank sold separately)
- ✈️ Expandable main compartment for extra packing space
- 🧳 Removable garment sleeve for suits or dresses
BUY 🛒
What makes it different ?The TUMI Alpha 3 isn't just about luxury branding — it’s built to survive years of frequent business trips. Its thoughtful design includes a USB port, multiple interior compartments for tech gear and documents, and a removable suit sleeve to keep formalwear wrinkle-free. Plus, the professional aesthetic means it looks perfectly at home from boardroom to hotel lobby.
Potential Downsides:- Expensive compared to other carry-ons
- Some users may prefer a lighter shell over nylon for style reasons
If you're looking for the best luggage to elevate your business travel game in 2025, the TUMI Alpha 4 delivers professionalism, practicality, and durability in one smart package.
Best Luggage for Family Trips: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner

- 🧳 Lightweight polyester fabric with water- and stain-resistant coating
- 🛞 Smooth, durable spinner wheels for easy maneuverability
- ✈️ Expandable capacity up to 2 inches for extra packing flexibility
- 🔒 Strong zipper system and ergonomic, high-tensile-strength handle
- 🧼 Multiple interior compartments for organized packing
BUY 🛒
What makes it different ?The Travelpro Maxlite 5 strikes the perfect balance between price, durability, and function. It’s lighter than most similarly sized suitcases, making it easier for families juggling multiple bags. The expandable feature also comes in handy when returning home with souvenirs or extra shopping. Travelpro’s reputation for long-lasting luggage makes it a favorite among airline crews and families alike.
Potential Downsides:- Fabric shell may not be as protective as a hard case against rough handling
- Limited 'flashy' style options. It’s more about practicality than looks
If you're traveling with kids or simply packing heavy for long trips, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 easily ranks among the best luggage choices for a worry-free travel experience.
How to Choose the Best Luggage for Your Trip
Finding the right luggage is about matching the suitcase to your travel style and needs. Here are a few important things to keep in mind when picking the best luggage for your next adventure:
🔵 Trip Length Matters: For short weekend trips, a compact carry-on is usually enough. Longer vacations or family trips often need larger checked bags.
🔵 Material Choice: Hardshell suitcases offer better protection for fragile items, while softshell options are lighter and usually more flexible for squeezing into tight spaces.
🔵 Weight and Maneuverability: Lightweight materials and smooth spinner wheels make a big difference, especially if you have long airport walks or tight layovers.
🔵 Expandability: Expandable luggage can save you when you buy more souvenirs or need extra room for unexpected items
🔵 Warranty and Durability: Trusted brands with strong warranty programs can save you money in the long run, especially if you travel frequently.
✈️ Quick Tip: Always check your airline’s size and weight restrictions before buying new luggage. Some international flights have stricter rules than domestic ones.
Find Your Perfect Travel Companion
The right suitcase should make your travels easier, not harder. Whether you need the sleek efficiency of a smart carry-on, the rugged durability of a checked bag, or a lightweight spinner for family trips, there’s a perfect option out there for you.
By focusing on quality, functionality, and your personal travel habits, you'll be able to choose the best luggage that fits your life and your next destination.