The Best Suitcases For Every Traveller
A suitcase can be your most trusted travel sidekick or a wonky-wheeled headache that turns every journey into a schlep. So finding just the right luggage to fit your needs – be that an affordably functional bag for short-haul trips, a style statement that perfectly matches your weekend-away vibe, or a next-gen, tech-filled option that can handle some knocks – can transform the way you holiday. With this list of 16 top suitcases to suit every traveller, your next luggage purchase will be in the bag.
Arlo Skye The Polycarbonate
1/17This smart suitcase is equipped with a battery pack for charging devices, two shoe bags, a leather ID tag and super-quiet Silent Run Lisof wheels. Its stand-out feature, though, isn’t something it has, but rather something it lacks: zippers. Two TSA-approved combination locks do the job instead, clamping the sturdy yet lightweight shell together.
RRP from $767 (56cm)
July Carry On
2/17Succeeding where other suitcase-tech companies have failed, July suitcases are suitable for all Qantas flights. They’re equipped with an ejectable battery with USB-C and USB ports for charging phones and laptops, a water-proof laundry bag, Y-strap compression system and an integrated TSA lock.
RRP $325
American Tourister Curio 2
3/17Double wheels for easy movement, expandability (for the chronic overpackers) and an internal organiser fitted with mesh dividers and multiple pockets make this suitcase the ultimate travel companion. The clever Duosaf security zipper clicks into the inbuilt security lock, ensuring maximum safety, and the classic model has now become more sustainable, featuring an interior lining made from recycled materials.
RRP from $265 (55cm)
Antler Stamford
4/17Silently gliding wheels and 5cm worth of additional packing space are just the beginning when it comes to this suitcase’s functionality. The polycarbonate matte surface means less visible scratches and the packing divider is removable, leaving you with the flexibility to pack your own way. There is even a USB port built into the cabin size case to ensure devices are fully charged before boarding.
RRP from $329 (cabin, 55cm)
Away The Carry-On
5/17Designed to be your carry-on companion for life, Away suitcases are thoughtfully designed and resilient. An ejectable battery pack charges your phone on the go; the polycarbonate shell is durable; and the interior compression system makes it surprisingly spacious. Away comes in other sizes, but the Carry-On is a great place to start – it’s as useful on a business trip as it is a weekend away.
RRP $275
Delsey Brochant 2.0 Softside
6/17This suitcase has multidirectional lightweight wheels, security zips that make the case more resistant to intrusion as well as a lightweight design. The generous internal pockets, coupled with the expandable four centimetres of extra capacity, make packing a breeze. The handy front pocket is the ideal spot to store items you’ll need to pull out and stow away in a hurry.
RRP $339
Herschel Outfitter Wheelie Luggage
7/17This cool case does double duty: it’s a both duffel and wheelie suitcase. It has an exposed brass zipper, a reinforced bottom, a laundry bag and a special shoe compartment. Carry it using the shoulder strap or leather top handle over rough ground or up stairs; glide through airports and along city streets pulling it by the retractable handle.
RRP from $360 (50L)
July Checked
8/17With any-height handle, stain-proof lining and whisper-quiet Silent Move double spinner wheels, a July suitcase is well thought-through luggage. If you combine a July Carry On with the larger version of the case (an 80-litre capacity), you’ll have 120 litres of space to play with. On the road you’ll wonder what you did without them, and at home they stack one inside the other for easy storage.
RRP $375
Samsonite City Rhythm
9/17The City Rhythm is the base model range for Samsonite and boasts the classic luggage brand’s best design features for maximum functionality. The cabin size case features a TSA cable lock, USB charging port and an eco-friendly rPET Recyclex internal lining, which is both durable and environmentally responsible.
RRP From $329 (55cm)
Antler Prestwick
10/17This soft-shell suitcase is both water resistant and lightweight. The top is padded and the corners are fitted with a protective guard to protect it from damage. There are two front pockets, so your travel essentials can be easily accessed, and the interior includes a zipper lining to keep your clean clothes separate from the rest.
RRP From $279 (55cm)
Crumpler Zero Border Check-in
11/17Weighing in at 3.9 kilograms, this weatherproof luggage can expand to fit up to 85 litres. With three padded carry handles and eight storage zones, it’s the perfect fit for the traveller who likes to be super organised. The standout feature? A waterproof internal pocket that allows you to pack away damp clothes and keep the rest of your suitcase dry.
RRP $399
Rimowa Classic
12/17Rimowa is for the discerning traveller who intends to buy once and buy well. It has a sleek aluminium shell, leather handles and zero zips. People generally fork out the big bucks for these stylish cases because they’re super-durable. Your Rimowa may incur the odd ding or dent over the years, but it’ll only add to its charm.
RRP from $2,525 (33L)
Samsonite C-Lite
13/17This suitcase features double wheels and an elongated double pull handle as well as an award-winning design. The shell is Samsonite’s Curv, a woven polypropylene that’s reinforced with sharp ridges to give it extra strength and capacity for shock absorption. Bonus: even with such a sturdy design, it’s still light and compact to carry around.
RRP From $749 (55cm)
Samsonite Magnum Eco
14/17The Magnum Eco is the eco-friendly and ultra-chic suitcase you’ve been waiting for. It boasts side carry handles, a three-point locking system and double wheels made from Samsonite’s Recyclex rPet fabric. The suitcase’s exterior is made from recycled yoghurt cups and the interior lining is made from recycled bottles.
RRP From $499 (55cm)
Aidan The Signature Series
15/17The signature luggage set from Aidan comes in three different sizes, all with zipless TSA-approved locks and a push-and-release braking system. The polycarbonate shell is durable, with corner plates for added protection. Add a touch of personalisation and have your initials added to your complimentary luggage tag.
RRP from $595 (‘S’ Plus, 57cm)
Victorinox Werks Traveller 6.0 Hardside
16/17A hard case that’s expandable? Yep, the already spacious interior of the Werks Traveller 6.0 gets bigger. With pockets aplenty, a garment bag and a padded sleeve for your laptop, you’d think the suitcase’s list of attributes complete. Nope: there’s also combination lock, a multi-tool (Victorinox makes Swiss Army Knives, FYI) and a USB port for on-the-go charging.
RRP from $759 (55cm)