The Best Luggage for International Travel

When you’re hopping between continents, navigating airport terminals, and hauling bags through cobblestone streets, your luggage isn’t just storage—it’s your trusted travel companion. After visiting over 40 countries and testing numerous bags along the way, I’ve finally narrowed down what truly counts as the best luggage for international travel—durability, practicality, and a touch of style.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the types of luggage that work best abroad, what features really matter, and my personal picks from trusted brands that have survived the chaos of global travel.

What Makes Luggage Ideal for International Travel?

 Durability Matters — Built to Withstand Airports and Adventures

Whether you’re island-hopping in Greece or hustling through Tokyo’s subway system, flimsy luggage won’t cut it. I’ve learned that polycarbonate and aluminum shells resist dents best, while quality zippers and 360° spinner wheels save your arms and sanity.

 Size & Weight Regulations for Global Airlines

International airlines can be stricter with carry-on limits. For example, European carriers often allow smaller bags than U.S. ones. Always check before flying, but I recommend a carry-on no larger than 21” and checked luggage under 50 lbs (23 kg).

 Security Features You Can’t Skip

Choose luggage with TSA-approved locks and tamper-proof zippers. Pickpockets aren’t just in movies, and it’s smart to add your own luggage tracker if it’s not built in.

Maneuverability: Why Spinner Wheels Rule Airports

A good four-wheel spinner glides effortlessly through terminals, even when packed full. Opt for rubberized wheels for durability and silent rolling.

Types of Luggage for International Travel

 Best Carry-On for International Travel

Lightweight yet spacious, the perfect carry-on fits airline rules and holds essentials for short trips or layovers. Look for compression panels and USB charging ports.

 Best Checked Luggage for Long-Term Travel

For longer stays, you’ll want expandable compartments and a robust shell. Internal dividers and garment sections help keep things tidy.

 Best Travel Backpacks for International Trips

Backpacks like the Nomatic Navigator are ideal for digital nomads or adventure seekers. Choose one with anti-theft features, water resistance, and a laptop sleeve.

 Best Hardside vs. Softside Luggage: Which is Better?

• Hardside: Better for protection and security; resists impacts.

• Softside: Often lighter and expandable; ideal if you pack last-minute.

Tried & Tested: Top 10 Best Luggage Brands for International Travel

After years of living out of a suitcase, here are the brands that earned my trust:

 1. Away—The Modern Globetrotter’s Choice

Why I love it: Sleek, minimalist, and thoughtfully designed for the modern traveler. The Away Bigger Carry-On has a durable polycarbonate shell and a removable battery for charging phones on the go. It glides smoothly and fits international overhead bins.

•  Built-in USB charger

•  Minimalist design with excellent build

• Best for: weekend getaways, digital nomads, and stylish travelers.

 2. Samsonite—Trustworthy & Globally Available

Why I love it: Samsonite is a household name for a reason—it offers durable, affordable luggage with practical features like expandable compartments and multi-directional wheels. I’ve used the Winfield 3 DLX across Europe and Asia, and it never let me down

•  Great value for money

•  Available worldwide—easy for replacements or repairs

• Best for: Travelers seeking reliable performance without breaking the bank.

 3. Briggs & Riley—The Business Traveler’s Favorite

Why I love it: It’s not cheap, but Briggs & Riley luggage is an investment. Their Baseline Expandable Spinner is built with ballistic nylon and features a patented CX™ compression-expansion system. Plus, their “no questions asked” lifetime warranty is unbeatable.

•  Lifetime guarantee (even for airline damage!)

•  Premium materials and quiet wheels

•  Best for professionals and luxury travelers

 4. Travelpro—Airline Crew Recommended

Why I love it: Developed by a pilot, Travelpro’s luggage is optimized for flight crews. The Maxlite 5 series is incredibly light, water-resistant, and surprisingly spacious. I’ve used mine on over 50 flights—it still rolls like new.

•  Trusted by flight crews

•  Expandable compartments and durable wheels

•  Best for efficiency and durability

 5. TUMI—Luxury Meets Utility

Why I love it: Known for premium craftsmanship, TUMI bags are sleek, smart, and loaded with features—like GPS tracking and leather accents. The Alpha 3 Expandable Carry-On is a powerhouse of style and security.

• Elegant finish, tech-savvy extras

•  High price but unmatched quality

•  Best for premium business travel

 6. Monos—Sleek & Sustainable

Why I love it: A newer contender, Monos has won me over with its Zen-like aesthetics and sustainable materials. The Monos Carry-On Pro includes a built-in front laptop sleeve and TSA lock, making it ideal for airport efficiency.

•  Polycarbonate shell, eco-friendly fabric

•  Compression straps and laundry bags

•  Best for minimalists and eco-conscious travelers

 7. Delsey Paris—Elegant European Engineering

Why I love it: Delsey combines French flair with functional design. The Chatelet Air collection is not only beautiful but also offers quiet wheels, a brake system, and anti-theft zippers. It turns heads in every airport.
Best for: Stylish travelers heading to Europe or urban destinations.

•  TSA lock, smooth spinner wheels

•  Lightweight and expandable

• Best for urban and European trips

 8. Nomatic—For Digital Nomads

Why I love it: Designed by digital nomads, for digital nomads. The Nomatic Navigator backpack transforms from daily use to carry-on mode with expandable compartments, RFID-safe pockets, and laptop protection.

•  Backpack/luggage hybrid

•  Water-resistant, sleek, well-compartmentalized

• Best for: Remote workers, creatives, and gear-conscious travelers.

9. Osprey—Adventure Ready

Why I love it: When you’re hiking across Patagonia or boarding sleeper trains in India, Osprey’s Farpoint and Fairview series are lifesavers. They’re incredibly comfortable with adjustable harnesses and hip belts, and they can handle rugged terrain

•  Comfortable for hiking and transit

•  Reinforced zippers, rugged frames

•  Best for off-the-grid or backpacking trips

 10. LEVEL8 – Subtle Luxury

Why I love it: LEVEL8 delivers premium luggage without the luxury price tag. The Road Runner Carry-On has a built-in front compartment for laptops and smooth, aircraft-grade spinner wheels. Understated yet very premium-feeling.

• Scratch-resistant shell, smooth wheels

• USB charging port

• Best for stylish, low-profile travelers

Luggage Features to Look for (What I Learned the Hard Way)

 Expandability & Internal Organization

Look for luggage with removable laundry bags, zippered compartments, and compression panels to fit more without chaos.

Built-in Chargers & Smart Tech

Smart luggage is no gimmick. Built-in USB ports and tracking tags are incredibly useful when stuck at foreign airports.

 Warranty & Customer Service

After a wheel broke in Vietnam, I found out how valuable a lifetime warranty really is. Brands like Briggs & Riley excel here.

Where to Buy the Best Luggage for International Travel

• Brand websites often offer custom colors and bundles

• Amazon for deals and fast delivery

• Retailers like Nordstrom or Macy’s for in-person inspection

• 🕐 Best time to buy: Black Friday, New Year, and Back-to-School season

Comparison Table: Best Luggage for International Travel

• What is the best size luggage for international travel?
  A 21” carry-on and a 25–28” checked bag are ideal for most trips.

• Is hardside or softside better for international flights?
  Hardside is better for protection; softside offers more flexibility.

• What luggage do airline crews use?
  Most cabin crew use Travelpro or Briggs & Riley.

• Can I bring a carry-on and backpack internationally?
  Yes, but ensure both fit the airline’s size restrictions.

Final Thoughts—My Go-To Luggage After 40+ Countries

After years of testing, my top pick is the Away Bigger Carry-On for short trips and the Briggs & Riley Baseline Large Expandable Spinner for long hauls. They’ve survived everything from airport abuse to rainy hikes in the Alps.

The right luggage depends on your travel style—choose durability, comfort, and practicality over trendy looks alone.