There are so many choices on the market today, so deciding between the best luggage brands can definitely be a challenge. There are some considerations in recommending the best luggage brands, such as design, warranty, and quality of materials ( like the zippers, wheels, and handles). The best luggage brands should optimize interior space and offer sizes that meet the needs of the traveler and airline requirements. Price should also be a consideration. No matter what your budget, you can find a good set of luggage. I have taken into consideration brands based on the value, as well as quality and design. Here are my top 10 best luggage brands (and then some :), base on value as well as quality and design ($-Low Price Range, $$-Mid Price Range, $$$ High Price Range):
$ – $$ American Tourister
For good quality at lower- to mid-range prices, American Tourister is considered the best luggage brand for travelers who do not travel frequently enough to need extremely durable or luxurious luggage. Owned by Samsonite, this brand includes soft-side and hard-side luggage in a variety of bold colors and finishes, including bags for kids (and adults!) featuring favorite Disney and Star Wars characters.
$ – $$ Samsonite
One of the best-known luggage brands, Samsonite started over 100 years ago as a trunk manufacturer. They have a wide range of products to include hard-side and soft-side bags, garment bags, backpacks, and travel accessories. Four-wheeled spinners and gliders are also included in their product line. Prices are in the low-to-middle price range, and offer durability, style, and value.
$$ Travelpro
This is a favorite of flight crews, and offers excellent quality, value, and durability. These were invented by an airline pilot who recognized the need for wheeled luggage. The popular Maxlite series includes soft-side and hard-side styles in a range of colors, two-wheel roll-aboard or the four-wheel spinner. The just-launched Platinum Elite line, their high-end option comes with premium fabrics, leather trim, and a “Worry-Free” lifetime warranty. You’ll find Travelpro to be a mid-priced luggage brand.
$$ Delsey
Delsey was founded in Paris in 1946 as a producer of leather camera cases. They expanded into the luggage business in 1970 with their hard-case line. They still specialize in hard-side bags, creating the first style with one main compartment similar to soft-side luggage . They also offer stylish and colorful soft-side bags, garment bags, and duffels. They offer excellent durability and value in the middle price range.
$$ – $$$ Eagle Creek
This rugged luggage line has a casual, outdoorsy feel with an emphasis on durability and functionality. Tough, weather-resistant coated polyester fabrics, heavy-duty wheels, and puncture-proof lockable zippers make it ready for rough treatment on long trips, and the company backs it up with its “No Matter What” lifetime warranty. Above mid-range in price, practical additions include a key fob with bottle opener and add-a-bag straps.
$$$ Briggs & Riley
They are known for their lifetime guarantee, and have introduced several innovations that make packing easier and more efficient. Briggs & Riley bags outside-mounted hardware provides more interior area and a flat packing surface, so fewer wrinkles. The brand’s exclusive CX expansion and compression technology gives you more packing space, and then returns the bag to its original size. Founded in 1993, prices are a bit higher than mid-range, but the quality and warranty (which applies even in the case of airline wear-and-tear) offers a great value.
$$$$ Tumi
Tumi is a distinctive luxury brand that focuses on quality, durability, style, innovation, and customer service. Their prices are above mid-range and includes complimentary monogramming, onsite repairs, lost luggage tracking, and options such as the “add-a-bag” system, which makes it convenient to carry extra items. Tumi’s fashionable luggage and accessories are available in hard-side, fine leather, and abrasion-proof ballistic nylon.
$$$ Victorinox
The company that makes the Swiss Army Knife, Victorinox, strives for the same versatility and functionality in its luggage. They offer a variety of styles in hard-side and soft-side luggage. Prices are higher than mid-range. They are known for quality and durability, and is a popular and respected brand.
$$$ Hartmann
The company’s new tagline, “Since 1877,” is a reminder of its history, dating back to the days of brass-trimmed steamship trunks and glamorous railroad travel. Today, Hartmann remains committed to style and quality, along with the latest technology in its Glider line of rolling bags. The Hartmann look is classic and luxe. After all, James Bond carried the Skymate suitcase in 1954’s “Live and Let Die.” Who could be classier than 007?
$$$ Rimowa
Founded in 1898, Rimowa is recognized for innovation in materials, having created the first aluminum trunk on the market in 1937. The company was also a leader in its use of lightweight and durable polycarbonate materials. Recognizable by its distinctive parallel grooves, premium-class Rimowa luggage is stylish and practical. “Handmade meets high-tech” is the brand’s motto and mission.
