This article contains affiliate links where I make a small amount of money if you purchase through it. Find out how we research the best products for our lists.
The best checked luggage on the market
Every time I go to the baggage carousel to pick up my luggage, I pray it’s in one piece. Imagine it was open and the contents were spilled onto the carousel for all fellow travellers to see! We’ve all seen the viral videos of baggage handlers throwing suitcases around without a care, so it’s worth investing in a well made, quality suitcase (and a TSA approved lock).
I scoured Amazon to find the best checked in luggage for international travel so you don’t have to. Here’s my research and what I found.
Criteria I look for in checked luggage
Size – if you checking in luggage, it must mean you’ll be away for longer than a city break. The minimum packing capacity of the suitcases on this list is 100L (you can increase internal luggage capacity with packing cubes).
Number of wheels – Your checked luggage is likely going to be heavy, so four wheels are need vs two. This will be less straining on your arm while travelling for sure.
Cost – I’ve tried to cater for all budgets in my selection of suitcases, but I believe the minimum amount you need to spend is £70 for checked luggage that is going to last more than one trip away.
Retailer – Why buy your checked luggage from Amazon? You’ll often receive fast and free delivery. Perfect when you find out you need a new suitcase last minute! And you can find out of season luggage from the best luggage brands in the world like Samsonite and Antler, meaning grabbing an absolute bargain is possible. Clicking on any Amazon link should take you to your regional Amazon site with local curency.
Review stars – A minimum of four stars and 100+ reviews on Amazon. I’ve also double checked and read the customer reviews to look for red flags like pictures of dented exteriors and broken zips and handle (and there were a lot).
And check out our guide if you’re looking for lightweight luggage specifically.
Here are the best checked luggage on the market
Amazon Basics Hardside Luggage
You still get four wheels and a scratch resistant finish. It features an ABS hardside meaning durable, extra thick material. That durability does add weight however at 5.54kg, making it the heaviest of checked luggage on the list.
Inside you’ll find one large zipped divider and two smaller pockets. They also claim it has an expandable design which provides up to 15% extra packing capacity.
I really like this bright orange colour (also available in an equally bright, brilliant blue.
| Shell Material | ABS |
| Size | 53.49 x 32.49 x 78 cm |
| Weight | 5kg |
| TSA Approved Lock | Yes |
| Packing Capacity | 105L |
| Warranty | No |
TRIPP Holiday 7 Banana Large Suitcase
Tripp make quality luggage at affordable prices (see my list of best lightweight suitcases for more).
Their Holiday series features a polypropylene shell and looks you’d expect to cost more than £100. The bright, sunshine yellow Holiday suitcase will only set you back £85. It’s also Good Housekeeping Approved in 2022.
| Outer Shell Material | Polypropylene |
| Size | 32 x 50 x 76 cm |
| Weight | 3.9kg |
| TSA Approved Lock | Yes |
| Packing Capacity | 102L |
| Warranty | 5 years |
Samsonite S’Cure
−£76.87
£178.13
| Outer Shell Material | Polypropylene |
| Size | 32 x 50 x 76 cm |
| Weight | 3.9kg |
| TSA Approved Lock | Yes |
| Packing Capacity | 102L |
| Warranty | 5 years |
American Tourister Soundbox Spinner Suitcase
| Shell Material | Polypropylene |
| Size | 51.5 x 29.5 x 77cm |
| Weight | 4.2kg |
| TSA Approved Lock | Yes |
| Packing Capacity | 110L |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Antler Clifton Suitcase
Their best-selling suitcase, the Clifton, is a perfect example of this which features ridges along the front and sides in muted pastel colours. If scratched, it’s colour-fast which means any inevitable scratches will stay true to the colour of the shell
Inside the 121L capacity Antler Clifton you’ll find four interior pockets and compressions straps.
However, weighing 5kg, it the Clifton is one of the heavier suitcases on the list.
| Shell Material | Polycarbonate |
| Size | 51.5 x 37.5 x 80 cm |
| Weight | 5kg |
| TSA Approved Lock | Yes |
| Packing Capacity | 121L |
| Warranty | 10 years |
Hauptstadtkoffer Mitte
The Mitte has a 100% ABS hardshell exterior, with 3 tear-resistant polyester inside. All parts a replaceable if something does break, meaning you might not have to buy a brand new suitcase again.
If you’re looking for a large capacity (which further exapnds) for under £100, this is a great option.
| Shell Material | ABS |
| Size | 77 x 50 x 30 |
| Weight | 4.4kg |
| TSA Approved Lock | Yes |
| Packing Capacity | 130L |
| Warranty | 5 years |
Kono Hard Shell Suitcase
Four rubber lined silent spinner wheels, a TSA Approved lock and YKK zips are just some of the reasons Kono is a strong contender for best value checked luggage on the list.
−£14.70
£83.29
| Shell Material | Polypropylene |
| Size | 76x49x30cm |
| Weight | 4.12kg |
| TSA Approved Lock | Yes |
| Packing Capacity | 130L |
| Warranty | 5 years |
What are the pros and cons of each luggage material?
There are various types of materials used to make luggage, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a detailed description of some of the most commonly used materials:
- Hardshell Luggage: This type of luggage is made of hard plastic or polycarbonate material. Hardshell luggage is durable, water-resistant, and can withstand heavy impacts without getting damaged. Additionally, the hard exterior provides better protection for fragile items inside. However, hardshell luggage can be heavier than other types of luggage, and the rigid shape doesn’t allow for easy packing.
- Softside Luggage: Softside luggage is made of fabric such as nylon or polyester. It is lightweight and easy to pack, as it can expand to accommodate more items. Softside luggage is also usually more affordable than hardshell luggage. However, softside luggage may not provide as much protection for items inside, and it may be more prone to tears or punctures.
- Leather Luggage: Leather luggage is a stylish option that can be very durable if cared for properly. It is also water-resistant and can withstand scratches and scuffs. However, leather luggage is usually more expensive than other types of luggage, and it requires regular maintenance to keep it in good condition.
- Canvas Luggage: Canvas luggage is made of cotton or a cotton blend. It is durable and lightweight, making it a good option for casual travel. Additionally, canvas luggage is usually more affordable than leather or hardshell luggage. However, canvas luggage may not be as water-resistant as other types of luggage, and it may stain or fade over time.
- Hybrid Luggage: Hybrid luggage combines elements of both hardshell and softside luggage. For example, a suitcase may have a hard exterior shell but a soft interior lining. Hybrid luggage provides the benefits of both types of luggage, such as durability and protection for items inside, as well as ease of packing and lightweight design.
- Aluminum Luggage: Aluminum luggage is lightweight and extremely durable. It is also resistant to scratches and dents. However, aluminum luggage is usually more expensive than other types of luggage, and it may not be as water-resistant as other materials.
In conclusion, the choice of luggage material depends on personal preference and travel needs. Hardshell luggage is great for protecting fragile items, while softside luggage is lightweight and easy to pack. Leather luggage is stylish and durable but requires regular maintenance. Canvas luggage is affordable and durable, but not as water-resistant as other materials. Hybrid luggage combines the best features of both hardshell and softside luggage, while aluminum luggage is extremely lightweight and durable but more expensive
Last update on 2023-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
