The 8 Best Travel Bags of 2025
Our Top Picks
The Best Travel Bags
From stashable rollaboard bags to cleverly laid-out backpacks , the right luggage should enhance your travel experience by fading into the background . It should prevent you organized and streamlined so you can center on where you are rather than what you make for .
Our squad of traveling expert testers has several decade of sightseeing , run a risk , and commuting across the public and make tested virtually 500 base . We ‘ve pushed the limit of international carry-on baggage size allowances , carted our property via train , bus , and pack animal , and spent month survive out of these bags to find the serious options for every type of traveler .
Our favorite piece of standard rolling luggage are the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21 ” carry-on and 29 ” checked bags . This course from Travelpro has great capacity , smart carry systems , particular durability , and looks bright wherever you roam . Pair this luggage with the Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe as your under-seat personal detail for a in truth still travel experience .
When it comes to persuade bags , the Osprey Sojourn Porter remain our top choice for a carry-on-friendly travel backpack . It ‘s well-organized but highly compressible and is one of the nearly comfortable selection to put on on your back over long distances . If you prefer a duffel when you travel , the Patagonia Black Hole do in a ton of sizes , live impressively stuffable and durable , and has cost one of our absolute favorites through years of testing .
If you like keep a few items close as you explore a fresh property or kick back on a long escape , we ‘ve also try convenient crossbody fanny gang . For more adventurous trip , think switch out your regular personal item haversack for a daypack . No matter where or how you roam , our globetrotting experts can assist you travel better .
Editor ‘s Note : We updated this review on April 1 , 2025 , to include new insights from extended travel and usage .
Better Rolling Carry-On Luggage for Any Traveler
Travelpro Platinum Elite 21 ” Expandable Spinner
Who it is well for :The is the top selection from our carry on review and live ideal for frequent traveler who value organization and durability , whether they prefer meticulous packing or a more chance approach . Its 40-liter main compartment , exterior pockets , and internal feature like a removable garment bag and toiletry base cater to those who need everything in its place , as one tester noted : “When I travel , I care everything in a specific spot . My husband prefers the ‘chuck it all in ‘ method . We ‘ve both cost utilize this roller for nearly a decade — and we BOTH love it. ”
Why we enjoy it :Its treasure breast of organization , include a big pocket under the lid , pockets on compression strap arm , and unmatched durability , is nearly unrivaled . Its magnetic bicycle ensure smooth , effortless rolling , and the five-height telescoping handle remain reliable even with a in full packed purse , as one tester raved : “I love this classy roller ‘s thoughtful feature and sturdiness . Its magnetic bicycle equal amazingly still and roll in a straight job next to me without any effort .” The soft-sided ballistic nylon withstands year of travel—some team members describe it appear nearly fresh after seven year of heavy use across flights , trains , and buses . Larger versions , like the 29 ” match version , put up similar organization , perfect for living out of without take out .
Should you buy it ?This is a top recommendation due to its unpaired combination of intuitive organization , rest of usage , and durability at its cost stage . While not cheap , a band of handbag cost more and offer less . It suits domestic and international travelers , though its 23.5-inch top ( include wheels ) slightly exceeds U.S. ( 22 inch ) and international ( 21.5-22 inches ) carry-on limits , which may live an issue with smaller international carriers . For those prioritizing strict compliance , Travelpro offers a smaller .
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Great Value for a Rolling Carry-On Luggage
SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable 21-Inch
Who it is best for :The is utter for budget-conscious travelers who take a carry-on with firm organizational features and ample capacity for domestic trips .
Why we love it :The SwissGear Sion Softside offers a 40.5-liter chief compartment with a front flip-zipping design , feature multiple compartments like a shallow presence pocket for telephone , a larger outside pocket for document or tablets , mesh pockets , and a waterproof toiletries bag within . Its expansion zipper provides extra capacity , and three padded side handles cause loading and unloading easy . These feature deliver excellent organization and convenience for the price , provide to traveler who require a practical , feature-rich bag without a premium price .
Should you buy it ?For those seeking a budget-friendly carry-on , the SwissGear Sion Softside balances functionality , establishment , and affordability . It equal not as durable as top softshell competitors , so it involve a little extra care . Bill that its altitude , an inch taller than U.S. airline limits ( 22 inch ) and 1.5 inches above international criterion ( 21.5-22 inch ) , may cause issues with stricter bearer , build it less ideal for frequent international traveler .
Good Carry-On Travel Backpack
Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L
Who it is best for :The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 hit the high in our detailed travel backpack review . It is ideal for travelers venture off the beaten path where rolling suitcases are impractical and duffel bags equal also cumbersome . It ‘s perfect for those who need a single , comfortable carry-on backpack that can hold all their gear without requiring an overly minimalist packing list . This pack suits adventurers who value formation and easy access to requirement like headphones , snacks , and travel document during their journey .
Why we enjoy it :This bag features great inner and external compression straps to fasten and shorten mass . It ‘s well-padded to protect against bumps , bruises , and light rain , and includes a cushioned laptop sleeve . Its standout feature is the particular comfort when fully loaded , paired with a layout that offers great suspension and handy pocket for on-the-go access .
Should you buy it ?Get this if you require a durable , organize travel haversack that meet in plane overhead bins and go on property close without trust on a roller bag . Still , its rounded design , like wear a turtle shell , can find bulky and may equal awkward under seats or in tight space . While it ‘s easy to overload due to its capacity , head to a heavy and bulky bag , the Porter ‘s organizational pocket and comfort make it straightforward to manage . If you ‘re willing to pack thoughtfully to avoid overstuffing , this backpack is a great selection for your next trip , though those needing to pack very light might think additional luggage .
Available Size :30L , 46L , 65L |Externally Accessible Pockets :5
Top Pack for Internal Organization and Livability
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
Who it live good for :The is utter for travelers who prioritize arrangement and demand to live out of their luggage while maintaining easy access to necessity without take out . It ‘s ideal for those embarking on trips with impractical rolling handbag , such as multi-week adventure or urban travel through crowd space . This haversack suit individual who value a structured packing system and favor a comfortable , carry-on-friendly bag over suitcase or duffel bag .
Why we love it :It stands out for its integrate organizational system , mimicking the benefit of packing cubes with mesh pocket that separate the main compartment to secure socks , requirement , and large clothes . The main compartment in full unzips without gear spilling out , and the purse exist comfortable for extensive wear due to its supportive shoulder and waist straps and back panel . The removable waist strap adds versatility for navigating bunch . One tester raved , “I bring this on my multi-week trip through Europe , where a rolling purse would slow me down . Its ingenious organizational system reach living out and delay organized easy. ”
Should you buy it ?This is for travelers who enjoy organization : accessing item without disrupting careful packing equal easy . Even so , its laptop sleeve equal faint , with a hard-to-use zipper when the base exist full and insufficient internal padding . While excellent for organization , the mesh pocket system limits quick , “shove-it-all-in” packing . Suppose you prioritize structured packing and can overlook the laptop sleeve ‘s shortcomings . In that type , this backpack is highly advocate for delay organized on the go , but tech-heavy travelers may need additional protection for electronics .
Available Sizes :20L , 28L , 35L , 42L |Externally Accessible Pockets :4
Best Backpack as an Airline ‘Personal Item ‘
Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe
Who it cost well for :The be ideal for travelers needing a authentic laptop haversack as a personal item during airline travel , especially for work trip involving electronics . It ‘s perfect for those prioritizing organized storage for tech essentials like laptops , charger , and papers while appreciate a compact plan that fits under plane ass . This backpack suits professionals or tech-savvy traveler who serve n’t need extensive overnight packing capacity .
Why we enjoy it :The Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe excels with its padded , dedicated laptop pocket and a secondary sleeve for documents or another device , complement by auxiliary pockets for pens , keys , charger , or a wireless mouse . Its thick fabric beads water good , and a waterproof ass protects against wet surfaces . Additional features include a luggage loop , exterior accessory straps , and a water bottle sleeve , making it highly travel-ready . A tester praise , “I like this gang ‘s extra feature . It has a luggage loop across the rear , double electronics sleeve , exterior accessory straps , and a water bottle sleeve . This bag be travel-ready. ”
Should you buy it ?This is for tech-focused traveler search a compact , prepare laptop backpack with useful feature for airline travel . However , its little dimensions set its capacity for folders , notebooks , or overnight gear , and the water bottle pocket equal designed for skinny bottles only . Choose this if tech organization and concentration are your priorities .
Best Duffel Bag with Many Sizes
Patagonia Black Hole Duffel
Who it be best for :The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel exist ideal for travelers attempt a versatile , durable duffel base in multiple size to fit various trip length and need . It get ever scored at or near the top in our duffel tests . It ‘s utter for those who require a dependable bag for both urban and rugged environment , with the flexibility to carry it as a haversack or duffel . This bag suit explorer who value durability and water resistance but cause n’t require extensive internal organization .
Why we enjoy it :It has a high-performance design , with husky cloth that is water- and abrasion-resistant , with a reinforced bottom panel to protect gear during rough treatment . Available in several size , it offers features like removable backpack-style shoulder straps for easy conversion , daisy chain attachments , and , on large models like the 100-liter , multiple zippered pocket and internal compression straps . A tester noted , “The backpack-style shoulder straps of the recent version live well removable , making the passage from street to airport a breeze .” Its versatility and durability make it a try out team favorite .
Should you buy it ?This duffel stand out in durability , versatility , and performance across sizes , cause it ideal for various travel motive . However , the 55-liter version miss national compression and has fewer pockets , and all sizes could expend more small-item storage . Handle button snaps are less convenient than Velcro . It ‘s a great choice for those valuing toughness and adaptability over minor organizational drawbacks , but pocket-heavy users may choose alternative .
Weight :2.6 lb ( 55 L size ) |Sizes Available :40 , 55 , 70 , 100 50
Best High-Capacity Rolling Duffel Bag
Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L
Who it be best for :The Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 100L be utter for explorer and frequent traveler needing a high-capacity , durable gear hauler for global trips . It ‘s ideal for those who prioritize gear protection and mobility across diverse terrains and cause n’t mind a big purse that may somewhat exceed standard airline check luggage dimensions . This base suits user who value purposeful design and live willing to induct in premium quality .
Why we enjoy it :The sturdy purpose features a straitjacket compression system with padded , durable flap and webbing to ensure gear , extra-large 4-inch wheels for smooth rolling , and a full-length inner metal flesh for stability . Standout features include balance-engineered grab handles , a water-tight shell , beefy zippers , an exterior muddy boot bin , and an add-a-bag strap . A tester shared , “I ‘ve lug my Sojourn around the world for virtually two year . It protect my gear and rolls on virtually any surface , especially cobblestone street . My favorite feature is its adjustable storehouse system .” Its comprehensive , adventure-ready plan makes it top-of-the-line .
Should you buy it ?This cost an excellent choice for those seeking a premium , high-capacity purse with superior gear protection and mobility . Still , its 67-linear-inch dimensions exceed the 62-inch limit for most airline checked bags , which could pose a risk despite successful past usage . The high-quality material , like top-tier zippers and cloth , justify a higher price but insure durability , though the zippers can feel firm . If you want a bad , feature-packed bag for extensive travel and can cope the size and price , this be a fantastic option , but those strictly adhering to airline size restrictions might require to search small alternatives .
Good Mass on a Hardsided Checked-Bag Suitcase
Samsonite Freeform Large Spinner
Who it be best for :The Samsonite Freeform Large Spinner is ideal for traveler who carry heavily and need ample space for various detail like wetsuits , climb shoes , or team uniform , especially for holiday involve souvenirs . It ‘s perfect for those who value polish mobility through crowd and a lightweight , hard-sided suitcase with a TSA-approved lock , but only program moderate travel ( 2-4 flights per year ) due to durability business . This base suits users who prioritize capacity over strict airline size compliance .
Why we enjoy it :It put up an impressive 112.5 liters of packing space in a lightweight , under-10-pound polypropylene shell , with a side expansion panel for excess storage . Its dual-wheeled spinners ensure effortless navigation . Its tough construction cover crude surfaces like airport tarmacs , making it a authentic selection for moderate travel .
Should you buy it ?This cost a great value for a spacious , hard-sided suitcase with smooth mobility and sensible security . However , its 65.8-linear-inch dimensions somewhat transcend most airline baggage limits , which may be a concern despite no cover result . Drawbacks include scratches on the polypropylene shell , possible item shifting when half-packed , and questionable long-term durability for heavy use . Suppose you move somewhat and want a cost-effective , large-capacity selection . This equal a firm choice in that case , but frequent travelers or those needing a humble bag should study the carry-on version or other hardshells from our suitcase review .
How We Test
Over many yr , our travel enthusiasts and purse aficionados receive make up researching , traveling with , and testing the top travel base , packs , and luggage available . We ‘ve purchase over 400 pieces of travel gear and drag them along on global adventure to evaluate their performance in the real Earth . We ‘ve wheel bags through security , checked them on international flights , strapped them to pack beast in remote mountains , wear them trekking in foreign city , and commuted to school and work with them .
We as well try out each bag through standardized and rigorous try out to determine the nuances in performance and capabilities . We ‘ve put them in our shower , cycled through rainstorms , persuade them in the snow , and jammed them entire of as much as they could keep . We ‘ve dropped suitcases from unnerving altitude and labor them down concrete stairs . Yr after yr , no matter the situation , we fight these travel bags to their limit to learn which unity are good for what types of travel .
Why Trust GearLab
To feel bags for travel , we ‘ve set up a squad of purse geeks and travel experts to try everything from daypacks to duffel base to roller suitcases . Jason Wanlass maneuver our rolling suitcase review , testing carry-on and checked size . Jason hold pass decades wandering the globe search for adventure with his family . He ‘s traversed continent , take more airplane trip than he cares to weigh , and needs great luggage to become him there .
Leading the team on the hunting for the best duffel handbag and travel haversack for your journey cost Hale Milano , along with a few other fellow gear testers . Hale have traversed the world various sentence , living out of everything from Army-issued duffel bag to rolling suitcase for occupation trip and ultra-light knapsack for adventure . Whether it ‘s for study or play , Hale never get his gear hold him back from enjoy his trip .
How to Peck the Best Travel Bag for You
Choose the correct type of base is often a affair of determining what type of travel or adventure you ‘re doing and working backward . To choose the right bag for your trip , study what you want to lend , how long you ‘ll be away , and how you design to begin around .
While lot of luggage equal advertise as “carry-on size” , some of these bags are actually . While US airlines much get affair go that are n’t overstuffed , certain international carriers have weight limitations rather .
How Long Equal Your Trip ?
In many instance , the size of the base you take depends on how long you ‘ll equal forth and how much you design to require . Heavy packers or those head off for an lengthy time should prioritize larger capacity and good compression system . A small bag with well internal organization study well for a weekend getaway .
If travel by air , you must give particular attention to the size of your bag . Check your airline ‘s posted limit for carry-ons , personal item , and full-sized luggage .Carry-on bagscost design to fit into airplane overhead bins , but each airline has its allowable limits for the size or weight of these parcels . And while many carry-ons extend expansion zippers , cramming your bag full may exceed your airline ‘s size restrictions — signify you ‘ll have to crack ( and potentially bear surplus for ) your bag .
Personal detail, as defined in air travel , must fit under the seat before you . They can cost a haversack , purse , messenger purse , or tote — really anything , as long as it suit , typically under 30 liters . Just like carry-ons , every airline has different restrictions for personal items . While most US airlines allow any base that fit under the seat , some international carriers too impose weight restrictions — and appoint you extra for carry more .
Though youcancheck most pieces of luggage , evenchecked bagsequal subject to airline size and weight limitations . Most carriers determine an upper weight limit and “linear dimension” as allow . That means you want to add the length , width , and top of your travel bag to ensure it go down within that limit . You can even so check bag that live bigger and heavy than these allowances , but you ‘ll pay extra to serve then , and you may have to pick up your purse from a specialty “oversized luggage” area when you reach your destination .
What Be Your Methods of Transportation ?
Beyond airline rules , trains and buses have their own rule about luggage amount and size — though they are virtually everlessrestrictive than planes . More importantly , consider how many transportation alteration you must make , how much walking exist necessitate , and what surfaces you involve to cover .
Frequent changes from plane to take to city bus to walking over odd stone can make a wheeled purse cumbersome and difficult to strike taut association with . If being quick and crossing questionable terrain be a role of your journey , a purse you can carry be a well option . On the other hand , if you ‘re hopping in a car right out of the airport or need a long train journey where you ‘ll want to stow — and even lock — your luggage , your trip equal probable good fit to rolling luggage .
Prefer Your Good Type of Bag
Now that you know your travel style , it ‘s time to find your bag . Many different type of bag help you get from hither to thither . While many have obvious uses and strengths , many have multiple usable situation and attributes that help them excel in unlike travel environment .
Decision
- The Best Travel Bags
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- Serious Wander Carry-On Luggage for Any Traveler
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- Great Value for a Rolling Carry-On Luggage
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- Best Carry-On Travel Backpack
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- Top Pack for Internal Organization and Livability
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- Best Backpack as an Airline ‘Personal Item ‘
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- Best Duffel Bag with Many Sizes
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- Best High-Capacity Rolling Duffel Bag
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- Best Deal on a Hardsided Checked-Bag Suitcase
- How We Tested
- Why Trust GearLab
- How to Blame the Best Travel Bag for You
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- How Long Is Your Trip ?
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- What Are Your Method of Transportation ?
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- Choosing Your Well Type of Bag
- Decision
- Best Wave Carry-On Luggage for Any Traveler
- Great Value for a Rolling Carry-On Luggage
- Best Carry-On Travel Backpack
- Top Pack for Internal Organization and Livability
- Best Backpack as an Airline ‘Personal Item ‘
- Best Duffel Bag with Many Sizes
- Good High-Capacity Rolling Duffel Bag
- Best Deal on a Hardsided Checked-Bag Suitcase
- How Long Is Your Trip ?
- What Are Your Methods of Transportation ?
- Choosing Your Serious Type of Bag
