As you prepare for your next adventure, you’re likely thinking about what luggage will best suit your travel needs. You’ve probably asked yourself: what features matter most, and which brands can I trust? You’re not alone in your quest for the perfect luggage. After putting various options to the test, we’ve narrowed it down to three top-rated choices that cater to different travel styles. From softside checked luggage to expandable hardside spinners, each of these options has its unique strengths – and you’ll want to know which one is right for you.
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Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Checked Luggage
If you’re a frequent traveler who demands high-quality construction, premium design details, and exceptional mobility, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Checked Luggage is an ideal choice for you.
You’ll appreciate its premium design details, including scuff-resistant, stain-resistant fabric, leather accents, and chrome zippers.
The high-quality construction guarantees a sturdy and durable build that can withstand the rigors of frequent travel.
This soft-sided luggage is also surprisingly lightweight, making it easier to maneuver.
With its handbag-style design, comfortable grip, and soft, rubberized touch points, you’ll feel confident and stylish as you navigate through airports and hotels.
Best For: Frequent travelers who demand high-quality construction, premium design details, and exceptional mobility.
Pros:
- High-quality construction with a sturdy and durable build
- Premium design details, including scuff-resistant, stain-resistant fabric, leather accents, and chrome zippers
- Smooth rolling and effortless maneuverability with eight magnatrac self-aligning 360-degree spinner wheels
Cons:
- Some users have reported issues with the zipper pulls
- The product may be heavier than some other options on the market
- The warranty only covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carriers for 1 year
Briggs & Riley Sympatico Hardside Large Spinner Luggage
For globetrotters seeking a reliable companion for their adventures, the Briggs & Riley Sympatico Hardside Large Spinner Luggage stands out with its expandable design, offering 17% more packing space to accommodate all your travel essentials.
You’ll appreciate the aircraft-grade aluminum telescoping handle system with 3 stop heights and ergonomic grip, making it easy to maneuver.
The TSA-friendly lock and adjustable garment compression panels add to the luggage’s functionality.
With its high-quality and durable construction, backed by a lifetime guarantee, you can trust this luggage to withstand the rigors of frequent travel.
Frequent travelers rave about its performance, praising its effortless rolling and convenient compression feature.
While some minor issues have been reported with the lock design and scratching, overall satisfaction is high, making it a top choice for your next adventure.
Best For: Frequent travelers seeking a reliable and durable luggage with ample packing space and convenient features.
Pros:
- Expandable design with 17% more packing space and adjustable garment compression panels for efficient packing
- High-quality and durable construction with a lifetime guarantee for peace of mind
- Effortless rolling and convenient compression feature make it easy to maneuver and pack
Cons:
- Some users have reported minor issues with the lock design and scratching
- Higher price point compared to other luggage options
- No other major drawbacks reported by users
Briggs & Riley Baseline Expandable Large Suitcase
When you need a reliable companion for your adventures that can adapt to your ever-changing packing needs, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Expandable Large Suitcase stands out with its impressive 2.5 inches of extra packing space.
This expandable luggage offers a durable construction with ballistic nylon outer fabric, ensuring your belongings are safe and secure.
You’ll appreciate the cinch-down mesh garment panels that minimize wrinkling, and the outsider handle that provides greater interior capacity.
With a capacity of 59.5 liters, this suitcase has plenty of room for your gear.
Plus, the CX system allows for easy expansion and compression, making it perfect for trips of any length.
Best For: Travelers who need a reliable and adaptable luggage for trips of any length, with a focus on durability, functionality, and ease of use.
Pros:
- Durable construction with ballistic nylon outer fabric and a lifetime guarantee for unconditional repair or replacement
- Expandable design with 2.5 inches of extra packing space and a CX system for easy expansion and compression
- Smooth and effortless handling with 4 high-quality double swivel spinner wheels and a sturdy outsider handle
Cons:
- Some users have mentioned minor issues with the suiter area and wheel size
- The luggage may be heavier than some users prefer, weighing 5.3 kilograms
- The capacity of 59.5 liters may not be suitable for all travelers, especially those who pack lightly
Factors to Consider When Choosing Luggage
When you’re in the market for new luggage, you’ll want to verify several key factors to guarantee you find the perfect fit for your adventures.
You’ll need to ponder the material your luggage is made of, as well as its durability and build quality.
Additionally, you’ll want to weigh the size and capacity, mobility and handling, and security features to guarantee your gear arrives safely.
Luggage Material Choice
You face a pivotal decision when selecting luggage: choosing the right material, as it profoundly impacts the durability, maintenance, and overall travel experience.
When evaluating materials, you’ll likely come across two main options: soft-sided and hardside luggage.
Soft-sided luggage, made from scuff-resistant and stain-resistant fabric, is a great choice for durability and ease of maintenance.
On the other hand, hardside luggage provides better protection for fragile items and can be more durable in the long run with proper care.
Additionally, you may want to weigh the aesthetic appeal of leather accents and chrome zippers, which can add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your luggage, but may increase the overall cost.
The weight and flexibility of the material are also vital factors to ponder, as they can greatly impact your travel experience.
Lighter and more flexible materials make it easier to maneuver, making your journey more comfortable.
Ultimately, when choosing a material, think about the type of travel you’ll be doing, how often you’ll use the luggage, and your personal preferences to select the most suitable option for your next adventure.
Durability and Build
As you weigh the pros and cons of different luggage materials, it’s time to weigh the durability and build of your next adventure companion.
A durable luggage build can withstand abuse without scuffing, thanks to features like scuff-resistant fabric, leather accents, and chrome zippers that contribute to its overall quality. You want a luggage that can withstand the rigors of travel, and high-quality construction with a sturdy and durable build is essential for its longevity.
Soft-sided luggage is often a great option, as it’s lighter and more resistant to scratches than hard-sided luggage, making it ideal for frequent travelers.
When evaluating durability, consider how well a luggage holds its shape, maintains its structure, and protects its contents during transit, even when subjected to harsh handling.
A well-built luggage with a trusted warranty can provide you with added peace of mind, as you can rely on the manufacturer’s guarantee to repair or replace the product if it fails to meet expectations.
Size and Capacity
Your luggage’s size and capacity play a critical role in determining how much gear you can bring along on your adventure.
When choosing the right luggage for your trip, consider how many outfits you plan to pack. A general rule of thumb is to pack 5-7 outfits without using expanders.
To maximize space, consider using compression cubes, which can help you fit more into your luggage.
For longer trips, you may need a larger capacity luggage that can hold enough items for 7-10 days with creative packing.
If you need to pack bulky items, soft-sided luggage can be a good option as it can be compressed to fit more items.
Don’t forget to check the dimensions of your luggage to confirm it fits in the overhead compartment or will need to be checked, depending on your travel needs.
Mobility and Handling
When it comes to traversing airports, public transportation, and winding streets, your luggage’s mobility and handling can make all the difference between a stress-free adventure and a frustrating one.
You’ll want a luggage that glides effortlessly, making it easy to navigate through crowded spaces. Look for luggage with high-quality wheels that can withstand rough handling and abuse.
For instance, eight magnatrac self-aligning 360-degree spinner wheels with a precision glide system can provide smooth rolling and effortless maneuverability.
Adjustable PowerScope extension handles with patented Contour grip can also enable comfortable and secure handling of your luggage.
Additionally, four high-quality double swivel spinner wheels can provide effortless handling and 360-degree rotation, making it easy to navigate through crowded airports.
A sturdy and durable luggage design with soft, rubberized touch points and comfortable grip can also make it easy to lift and maneuver the luggage.
Security Features
Secure your travels by considering luggage with robust security features that protect your belongings from loss, theft, or damage.
You’ll want to look for TSA-friendly locks that allow airport security to inspect your luggage without damaging it, ensuring your belongings remain secure and protected during travel. Integrated locks with combination or key locks provide an additional layer of security, giving you peace of mind when checking your luggage.
Some luggage even features built-in ID tags or tracking devices, making it easy to identify your bag on the baggage carousel or track it in case of loss.
When choosing luggage, consider the durability of the materials and construction.
Look for reinforced seams, sturdy zippers, and durable materials to prevent accidental openings or tears that could compromise the security of your belongings.
If you plan to travel with valuable electronics, consider luggage with a built-in laptop or tablet sleeve, providing an extra layer of protection during travel.
Weight and Portability
As you prioritize security features, it’s equally important to weigh the weight and portability of your luggage, since a few pounds can make a substantial difference in your travel experience.
A lightweight luggage can be a game-changer, as a mere 1-2 pound difference can affect how easily you can maneuver through airports or transport your luggage.
If you’re a frequent traveler, consider opting for soft-sided luggage, which tends to be lighter and more portable than hard-sided options. However, don’t sacrifice durability and quality construction for the sake of a few pounds – you want your luggage to withstand the rigors of travel.
Look for luggage with high-quality wheels and maneuverability features, such as spinner wheels, which can greatly impact portability.
Remember, the weight and portability of your luggage can notably affect your travel experience, especially if you have mobility issues or travel frequently.
Warranty and Support
You want a luggage warranty that’s got your back, providing peace of mind and protection against unexpected damage or defects. A good warranty and support system can be a major selling point for luggage, especially when it comes to high-quality products.
For instance, Travelpro’s ‘built for a lifetime’ guarantee covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carriers for a year. Briggs & Riley takes it a step further with a lifetime guarantee, offering unconditional repair or replacement.
When evaluating warranty and support, consider the duration of coverage, the process for making claims, and the responsiveness of the manufacturer’s customer service.
An all-encompassing warranty and support system can add value to a luggage purchase, justifying a higher price point for high-quality products. You’ll want to look for manufacturers that stand behind their products and provide hassle-free support in case something goes wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Repair My Luggage if It Gets Damaged During Travel?
If your luggage gets damaged during travel, you can try repairing it yourself or take it to a professional; check your warranty, as some brands offer repair services or replacement options, saving you from buying new luggage.
How Do I Clean and Maintain My Luggage Effectively?
You’ll want to clean your luggage regularly to prevent dirt buildup. Start by wiping it down with a damp cloth, then use a mild soap and water solution for tough stains, and dry thoroughly to prevent water spots.
Are Luggage Warranties Transferable to New Owners?
You’re wondering if that sweet luggage warranty follows you or stays with the bag. Typically, warranties aren’t transferable to new owners, but it depends on the manufacturer’s policy, so you’ll need to check the fine print.
Can I Use My Luggage as a Gift for Someone Else?
“Oh, you want to pawn off your old luggage on some unsuspecting friend or family member? Go for it! Just don’t say I didn’t warn them about the broken zippers and mysterious stains.”
Do Airlines Have Specific Luggage Size and Weight Restrictions?
When you fly, you’ll find that airlines have specific size and weight limits for luggage, and you’ll need to check with your carrier for their exact restrictions to avoid any issues during check-in.
Conclusion
As you prep for your next adventure, remember, the right luggage can be your trusted sidekick.
With the Travelpro Platinum Elite, Briggs & Riley Sympatico, and Baseline Expandable Large Suitcase, you’ve got options that’ll keep up with your wanderlust.
From premium construction to expandable designs, these top-rated picks have got you covered.
So, pack up and take off – the world is waiting, and with the right luggage, you’ll be ready to roll!
