In decades of travel that ranged from quick weekend jaunts to days-long journeys halfway around the world, I've learned a few things about travel, like how you'll appreciate springing for a flight that doesn't land at rush hour. And how there's no need to bring a book when you're traveling with children. And most of all, how you're really doing yourself a disservice if you jet off carrying inferior luggage. Yes, you're all excited about your next vacation or wowing the sales team with your PowerPoint, but unless you've shopped for the luggage that's good-looking, durable and full of the features you prefer, you're self-sabotaging the whole experience. That's why I've spent the last week sorting through the best luggage brands on the market today, including checked luggage, carry-ons, hardside and softside collections, and in a wide range of prices.
No need to thank me—just remember that, as a survivor of broken suitcase handles, torn tote bag straps and lost passports (I swear it fell out of my zipped carryon), I want better for you. In selecting these brands, I considered a wide range of attributes that matter most in luggage, including range of styles, durability, value and warranties. (Our best overall brand, Away, is an industry innovator that offers an extra-sturdy build and lifetime limited warranty, and we were impressed with some other legacy brands and stylish newcomers, too.)
