As the leaves turn and the travel rush begins, packing for those trips over the holidays means maximizing your luggage space. As a writer and frequent flyer who regularly tests suitcases, I set out to round up the best checked luggage with the help of our travel team and a testing panel. After evaluating highly rated bags from top brands, we chose Away’s The Medium as our overall favorite thanks to its size, smooth-rolling wheels and efficient compression features. If you prefer softside luggage, we recommend the Samsonite Elevation Plus, which is also expandable by up to 2 inches.

Based on our rigorous testing process, we determined the best checked luggage from brands including Monos and Away.

Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailers

With help from our panel of testers and input from a luggage designer, we evaluated a variety of selections across different size options, price points and more. Here’s what made our final list.

Along with our top picks for the best checked luggage to travel with in 2025, we’ve gathered tips on how to select the suitcase that’s best for your specific needs. For shorter trips, we’ve also rounded up recommendations for the best carry-on luggage, and if you’re traveling overseas, make sure to read our guide to the best luggage for international travel.

Between its sturdy polycarbonate outer shell and smooth 360-degree wheels, the Away The Medium pulls out all the stops in terms of quality. It earned the highest marks during our testing thanks to its firm, underside handle that our testers found easy to grip, as well as its easily maneuverable zippers that didn’t snag after some seriously firm pulling. It also received praise for its manageable size; at 26 inches high, it’s a great fit for travelers of all heights.

“I traveled through four different airports with this suitcase, stuffing more items into it at each stop, and it held up spectacularly well,” says one of our testers. “The compression system allowed me to squeeze everything into it with plenty of space to spare.” This suitcase also fits neatly into its next size up, The Large, which comes with increased packing space (104 liters) for longer trips.

As far as hardside suitcases go, Monos’ Check-In Medium offers a variety of unique features to keep your belongings safe. Earning the second-highest marks for a hardside suitcase after our top pick, the Away The Medium, our testers appreciated this bag’s ergonomic wheels and comfortable handle. It’s one of the lightest suitcases on our list and has dual compression straps plus a divider to keep things organized.

Our testers specifically called out the Monos Check-In Medium’s add-ons: “I loved the silver ion-coated laundry bag, two shoe bags and vegan leather luggage tag,” says one. Another appreciated its stylish exterior, reporting that they get compliments on it every time they go to the airport. For medium-length trips where you’d rather skip the hassle of checking a bag, opt for the Carry-On Pro instead.

Weighing just over 8 pounds, the July Checked is the lightest checked bag on our list, yet offers an incredibly spacious 80-liter capacity. Our testers were impressed by its numerous features, such as an aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell and odor-proof laundry bag. Other highlights include its anodized aluminum bumpers for more durability, and its water- and stain-proof interiors that can withstand any accidental spills.

The suitcase’s bumpers particularly stood out during our testing. “I liked the classic-meets-modern look of the reinforced corners, as corners often get banged up easily, ” says one panelist. And despite its weight, our testers say it didn’t feel flimsy: “It’s not too heavy but feels very sturdy. I was pleasantly surprised at how little it was scuffed through our travels.” Over-packers can also appreciate the bag’s handy Y-strap compression system.

The Samsonite Elevation Plus is our top pick for softside luggage devotees. Our tester praised its roomy pockets, quick-access storage and great organization, including a PEVA wet pocket to separate toiletries. Inside, a wire-framed divider compresses items to create space, but the suitcase is also expandable by 2 inches should you need even more.

Another prominent detail? Its dual spinner wheels, which one of our testers raved about: “The wheels were super smooth—they weirdly rolled better with more weight than less,” she says. The bag additionally comes with an internal luggage tag holder—the perfect size to fit an Apple AirTag—for those who want to track their belongings.

With a whopping 100L capacity, the Calpak Ambeur Large is our top pick for those who need maximum packing space. The Medium version of this bag—which has all the same components, just in a slightly smaller size—earned high marks from our panel. One tester says, “I was impressed by how much I could squeeze into it without even using the 2-inch expansion system."

The suitcase’s side handlebar also earned praise: “I particularly loved how grippy it was considering how much I was lifting it,” she says. Because the bag’s shell isn’t fully made from polycarbonate, we did notice some surface-level scratching after long trips. If that’s a dealbreaker for you, check out some of the other polycarbonate luggage on this list.

Looking to pack more efficiently? Briggs & Riley’s Baseline Spinner’s one-touch expansion system was a favorite among our testers, who said it was very easy to use. After loading in your belongings, simply press a button to have the bag expand by 34 percent; after you’re all done, press it again to compress everything back down. If you’re traveling with evening wear, there’s also a wrinkle-reducing garment folder at the top to keep your clothes nice and crisp.

“This bag’s organization is top-notch,” says one tester. “I keep my nice dresses in the garment panels, then things like food items in other zippered pockets. The expandability is really nice because I’m usually traveling with a lot of gifts, too.” For a lower priced alternative, look into Briggs & Riley’s ZDX Expandable Spinner. While it doesn’t compress like the Baseline does, it still expands enough to create extra room for your belongings.

Our panel enjoyed the effortless expandability of the Béis Large Check-In Roller, which won high marks for its built-in weight indicator. Ideal for over-packers, its indicator alerts you if your suitcase is over weight limits (around 50 pounds for most standard airlines). Its 360-degree wheels easily glide across any airport floor, while its gradient 3D stripe exterior is sure to turn heads between terminals.

Testers praised this bag’s construction, with one saying, “The zippers were hassle-free and easy to use, and the inside pockets allowed me to compress my items without worrying if they would spill out when I reopened it.” Bonus: The bag has a detachable compression flap, plus plenty of pouches for all the little souvenirs you pick up during your trip.

If it’s scuff you’re worried about, the Samsonite Winfield 2’s polycarbonate exterior was specifically engineered to absorb impact. When your bag comes in contact with a surface, its material flexes before settling back into its original shape—thereby avoiding most dents. For any scratches that do occur, the bag’s brushed coloration pattern conceals any marks that would otherwise stick out like a sore thumb.

Our testers praised this bag’s protective exterior, with one saying, “Its sturdy hardside exterior made me feel like my items were protected, not to mention its built-in lock." Even though this suitcase’s shell reduces the appearance of marks, “its material isn’t completely scratch resistant,” says the tester. If potential scuff is a no-go for you, consider a softside option—like the brand’s Elevation Plus—instead.

While the Away The Trunk’s large size isn’t ideal for every trip, it’s great for long-haul adventures. Our tester was able to pack over 21 outfits inside—plenty for three weeks or more. Its quick-release trolley handle made it easy to carry without strain, and its underside grab handle made lifting it off the carousel a breeze.

Despite its larger size, our panel had no issues rolling this bag between gates. “It was very maneuverable, the wheels spin beautifully and I was able to juggle it and a toddler with ease at the airport," says one tester. It also earned high marks for its construction: “The zippers are sturdy, and it’s overall very lightweight for a trunk.”

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Other Checked Luggage We Tested

Delsey Clavel Hardside Spinner Luggage($200):While incredibly lightweight and maneuverable, our tester reported having trouble closing and opening the zipper on this suitcase. Scuffing was also notable on its exterior after trips.

TravelPro Maxlite 5 25-inch Medium Spinner ($191):Our tester described the zippers as being on the flimsier side: “They feel like they might break over time, especially if you overstuff this bag,” she says. She also wished it was more stylish.

Travelpro Versapack + Large Check-In Spinner($408):Similarly to the Maxlite 5, we found this bag’s simple design—while efficient—to be aesthetically lacking. If style isn’t a priority for you, however, the large capacity and smooth-rolling wheels are definitely a plus.

Away The Large Flex($425):With numerous compartments for organization, testers described this luggage as almost having too much room for her belongings (despite being an over-packer). The quality of its construction was high, but it ultimately lost points due to its shallow handle.

How We Tested The Best Checked Luggage

We considered expert advice, personal testimonials and product awards when evaluating contenders for this list. Styles from well-reputed brands were prioritized when testing.

• We selected 13 suitcases from top-rated luggage brands like Away and Monos, then asked our panel of 14 editors and staffers to evaluate them for their durability, materials and ease of maneuverability. Luggage was used on domestic and international trips ranging from four days to two weeks. Testers gave detailed feedback on each contender that we used to rank each bag on a scale of 1 to 5. Final selections scored a 4 or higher.

• Our testers packed according to individual brand guidelines. They took notes on their bags’ overall design during use (including ease of movement, accessibility of pockets, weight, etc.), in addition to assessing how well they held up by the end of their trips. Since spinner wheels can damage easily depending on the textures they’re rolled over, we also made sure to test each suitcase over a variety of different surfaces.
• Our final list includes checked bags that cater to a broad range of travel needs and preferences, from lightweight and affordable options to heavy-duty luxury picks and trunks for long-haul trips.

What To Consider In Checked Luggage

Make sure to take into account the length of your trip, how much you plan to pack and where you’ll be staying before making your shopping decision. Here’s what else to consider as you shop for checked luggage.

Size

Long-haul trips require a lot of packing space. If you’re jet-setting for two weeks or more, consider an expandable option like the Briggs & Riley Baseline Expandable Spinner or the Béis Large Check-In Roller. For shorter trips, medium checked bags like the Away The Medium and the Monos Check-In Medium will do just as well.

Durability

Checked luggage has a tendency to get scratched and marked during its journey to the carousel, which is why sturdy pieces are essential. “Look for a shell that can withstand the rigors of travel,” says Away’s luggage design director Raquel Tirado. Polycarbonate exteriors are industry standard due to their lightweight durability.

Organization

If you’re lugging a checked bag, you’re probably expecting to bring back some souvenirs with you. “Smart interior features—like compression systems or dedicated compartments—can help you stay organized on the go,” says Tirado, who recommends ensuring you have plenty of pockets for all the bits and bobs you’ll pick up along the away. “Thoughtfully placed pockets help travelers maximize space and pack with confidence,” she says.

Additional Features

Ask yourself: What tends to give you the most grief while traveling? Many suitcases include extra elements to make your adventures easier. Anti-theft locks, for example, are built into many of our top checked luggage picks, like the Samsonite Winfield 2. Lightweight bags like the July Checked, on the other hand, are specifically crafted to make lifting and lugging things around a lot easier if you often struggle to carry your luggage.

A favorite feature of Tirado’s are “smooth-gliding, 360-degree spinner wheels. They transition effortlessly from cobblestone streets to chaotic airport sprints, making navigation a breeze.” All of the suitcases on our list have them, but we especially like how durable they are on Away’s The Medium and Béis’ Large Check-In Roller.

Warranty

When you buy suitcases directly from brands, some will offer a limited trial period during which you can receive a refund, while others have longer—and sometimes even lifetime—warranties. Frequent fliers should consider investing in a pricier and more durable option with long-term warranties should any issues occur.

Expert Tips For Packing Your Checked Luggage

So you’ve picked out your suitcase and want to optimize your packing strategy. Here’s what to know.

Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes can make the difference between an overstuffed bag and a well-organized suitcase—designed to compress your items to maximize space. “They’re game changers for keeping things neat,” says Tirado, who particularly recommends them for overpackers. Away’s Insider Packing Cubes are a travel essential for her, and we additionally featured them in our own roundup of the best packing cubes.

Roll Your Clothes

Sometimes called the “ranger method,” this technique for packing involves rolling each of your clothing items before placing them in your suitcase. Doing this can help maximize space, as rolled clothes fit more easily into gaps and corners, and can stack conveniently on top of each other. Pro tip: With tops, fold in the sleeves before rolling for efficiency.

Wear Your Bulkiest Clothing

Anything larger can be worn on travel days to save luggage space. During the colder seasons, plan to layer on your heaviest coats and sweaters to avoid having an over-filled bag.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

We consider ourselves suitcase enthusiasts here at Forbes Vetted, and our travel vertical consists of many luggage roundups.

• As experts on the topic, we’ve also researched, tested and reported on the best carry-on luggage to the best luggage for international travel, the best personal item bags and many others.
• Whitney Bruno, the author of this piece, is a lifestyle editorial assistant who regularly covers top-rated travel products, including the best travel tech organizers and best travel pants for women.
• This story was edited by deputy editor Jane Sung who oversees the travel, fashion and beauty verticals. She has reported on travel gear and destinations for over a decade and uses many of the suitcases on this list.
• We consulted with Raquel Tirado, luggage design director at Away, for key insights on what to consider when purchasing checked luggage and best packing practices.
• We regularly refresh this story to ensure all of our picks continue to be relevant. In our October 2025 update, Bruno added a section on packing tips, plus additional insights from a luggage expert.