A blurred out passenger trying to get through the divider for the conveyor belt at Manchester Airport.Dispatches / Channel 4
Angry passengers crawled through a conveyor belt after waiting for luggage, per Channel 4.
Passengers at Manchester Airport were filmed offering to come in and look for bags after hour wait.
Agents Swissport laid off thousands of workers during Covid, and now don't have enough staff.
Angry passengers at one of the UK's busiest airports crawled through a luggage conveyer belt after waiting for their bags for 90 minutes, footage from Dispatches shows.
The video, filmed by an undercover reporter working as a baggage handler, shows angry passengers at Manchester Airport pushing their way through the conveyor belt to question staff about the delay.
One passenger who crawled through said: "I will just grab it and help you unload it if you want," complaining that they had been waiting for an hour and 20 minutes for their bags.
Although passengers were told that the conveyor belt would deliver the luggage, another agent told them it was unlikely given several cancellations and delays.
Workers told Dispatches, an investigative program that airs on UK Channel 4, shows that people crawling through the entrance "happens all the time," and that passengers sometimes try to fight staff out of frustration over missing luggage.
One worker told the channel he was regularly left to do a "two-man job" on his own, describing it as "daunting."
The investigation by Dispatches provided insight into the shortage of baggage handlers sweeping airports in the US and Europe, after luggage handling agency Swissport laid off thousands of workers during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"To be honest, I just don't know how people do these shifts and these kinds of hours starting at 3 a.m. It's absolutely brutal," the undercover reporter working on the investigation said. "No one gives them much credit. But without them, no one's flights will be taking off. No one will be going on holiday."
In a statement, Swissport said: "We are sorry for our part in the disruption some people have experienced at Manchester Airport. We are doing everything we can to mitigate delays for passengers, including hiring more than 4,100 people since January."
My family's summer vacation at the Mandarin Oriental tucked away on the secret Caribbean island of Canouan was positively dreamy. The journey back? Not so much. But thanks to one $28 product, my saga of dealing with lost luggage was thankfully far easier than it could have been, and you're about to read why.
Our return trip to Los Angeles involved three planes (with a seatmate who coughed nonstop), sweating behind N95 face masks in humidity approaching 100 percent, and a flight delay — a total of 18-plus hours in transit with two young children. When our final checked bag failed to emerge from the carousel, I would have been ready to bail on it even if it was filled with gold bars; I was just done.
Fortunately, I didn't have to spend a single unnecessary late-night moment wondering if or when it might emerge. Rather, I pulled up the Find My app on my iPhone and there was my bag: 2,342 miles away in Miami, where we'd last connected. I was able to locate my bag so easily because I had outfitted each piece of our checked luggage with an Apple AirTag. These personal GPS devices are tiny and almost weightless — about the size of a small watch face. They set up effortlessly: Just hold it next to your iPhone or iPad to link to your account.
I already had these devices on all of my critical material things: my keys, my kids' backpacks, and my cat's collar, for example. But with the mess that is commercial air travel these days, I bought an additional 4-pack so I could add one to each of my family member's checked bags this summer.
Typically, these tags are about $29 each, or close to $100 for a four-pack, which is what I paid. Right now, the set of four tags is on sale for 10 percent off, bringing its price down to $89, which is an excellent bargain for technology that would have seemed like sci-fi fantasy not so long ago. (We previously owned devices called Tile, but Apple's version is far superior and works well with all of our existing tech.)
Amazon
To buy: amazon.com, $89 for a 4-pack (originally $99)
To locate a missing device, you can play a sound on the built-in speaker; this works well for items likely to be in the house, like keys. But for my luggage, I pulled up the Find My app and saw not only that it was in Miami, but precisely where it was in the terminal. (All communication with the Find My network is anonymous and encrypted for privacy, and the data is never stored.)
After getting a bit of sleep back at home, I called American Airlines to officially register a claim for my delayed bag. Using my bag tag ID, the agent tracked my bag to LAX, where it had eventually arrived on a later flight from Miami. Of course, I already knew its updated whereabouts thanks to the AirTag.
For how frustrated I was about the delay (it took days for the bag to finally arrive back home), I was reassured by knowing exactly where the bag was at all times — and I was prepared to go to the warehouse in person to retrieve it if need be. Eventually, it showed up at our house — 99 hours after we did (but who's counting?) and with only hours to spare before we were leaving town again.
Did the AirTag magically make my delayed luggage reappear? No. But it definitely informed my efforts to locate it in a meaningful way, and it reassured me that I could eventually reunite with my MIA luggage. And I did.
All of this intel is valuable at any cost. But at $28 a pop for an Apple AirTag right now, there's no bigger bargain when it comes to the chaotic, expensive world of air travel.
After a traveler reads the fine print on the United Airlines website, Tripped Up makes some calls, sends some emails — and gets the traveler $3,000. Our columnist can’t quite believe it.
Dear Tripped Up,
I regularly travel between Houston and Atyrau, Kazakhstan (via Newark and Amsterdam) for work, taking United for the first two legs and Air Astana for the third. The trip is long but the routine is always the same: check your luggage in Texas and pick it up upon arrival. But this past January, United didn’t follow the routine: When I boarded in Newark, I saw on the United app that at least one of my bags had stayed behind. I alerted the flight attendant, who alerted the gate staff, who in turn suggested I get off the plane, get my luggage and fly the next day. But there are limited connections, I had to get to work and I had no idea where my second bag was. (Also lost, it turns out.) Thirteen days and countless calls and letters later, Astana delivered my luggage in Kazakhstan. United eventually offered me $150 in compensation. I believe this is not nearly enough, especially considering their policy on “delayed bags” says I may be eligible for $1,500 per bag if they can’t find my luggage in five days. Can you help? — Laura, Missouri City, Texas
Dear Laura,
You know all those apocalyptic reports of lost luggage we’ve been reading recently? It turns out the problem actually picked up steam this winter, when Omicron hit, and just in time for your flight in January. That month, according to Transportation Department numbers, U.S. airlines “mishandled” 8.1 per 1,000 bags checked, compared to fewer than 6 per 1,000 that was the average in 2021.
Still, I’m guessing “you’re not alone” doesn’t make you feel much better about what must have been a maddening 13-day delay. So how about the $3,000 they have now offered in compensation?
Yes, it took some back-and-forth with United spokespeople, but I managed to convince them that your interpretation of United’s policy — that if your bags are not found for five days, you are owed $1,500 per bag — was right. Only problem is, I’m not sure I believe it myself.
But more on that later. First, let’s go over what happened. When we spoke on the phone, you told me of one telling incident from your trip, that when you checked in at the Houston airport, you noticed you had not received a boarding pass for your final leg. But after speaking to several agents, you were assured that both you and your luggage were checked through to Atyrau.
Nevertheless, when it seemed like one bag was being left behind in Newark, you did just what you should have done, reporting to staff that United’s app showed one of your bags was now in baggage claim. The next day, exhausted in Atyrau, you filed a lost luggage report for both bags and kept all the printed evidence. (Readers, you should see the documentation I got along with this complaint — when you’re writing in, please do the same!)
Pointing me to the delayed luggage page on United’s website, you argued United owes you $1,500 per bag even though the airlines eventually found and delivered your luggage. Let’s look carefully at the wording:
“If we’re unable to find your bag after five days, you may be eligible for $1,500 for the value of your baggage and its contents without requiring any documentation.”
I certainly see what you mean, although you don’t have to be an attorney to see the textual hemming and hawing here. You “may be eligible” is far from a promise, and United might have argued that they were able to “find” your bags in five days, even if it took another eight to get them to you.
So I was not surprised when I originally contacted United and a spokeswoman promptly passed the buck. “On code-share and connecting flights, the operating carrier to the final destination is responsible for the delivery of the bag(s),” she wrote in an email. She suggested I reach out to Air Astana directly.
I wasn’t born yesterday. Elvira Nurbayeva, the Kazakh carrier’s manager for corporate communications, had already passed along documentation from WorldTracer, an international service that works with airlines to track lost luggage, saying that your bags were left in Newark. The reason: That you “DID NOT CLAIM AND CHECK IN FOR INTL FLT.” This “obviously means that the passenger should have received luggage on arrival in Newark,” wrote Ms. Nurbayeva. So you blamed United, United blamed Astana and Astana blamed you.
But when I went back to United with the additional details, things changed. In a statement, the spokeswoman admitted the bags had actually been tagged through to Atyrau but were not transferred correctly. And then:
“When this happens, we work hard with our interline partners to connect customers with their bags as quickly as possible, including compensation for the delayed bag. We sincerely apologize for the frustration this caused.”
Just days ago, you let me know what happened next: United and Astana agreed to compensate you $3,000, or $1,500 for each mishandled bag.
I’m happy for you, and I think your argument about United’s stated policy is reasonable, but I’m unpersuaded and left uneasy by this decision, because I fear it does not portend the dawn of an era in which airlines make generous payments to everyone suffering over lost luggage.
George Hobica, founder of the bargain travel site Airfarewatchdog, agreed. He was shocked to hear that United agreed to pay the full amount. He suspects the scrutiny of a certain major newspaper may have played a role. Airlines are required to pay you back a reasonable amount for items you had to purchase, he noted, but you had told me that amount of items was under $75.
“She is entitled to be compensated for her $75, but not for pain and suffering,” he said. “We all go through pain and suffering these days.” Legally, Mr. Hobica appears to be on strong ground. The 1999 Montreal Convention, covering international travel and signed by all three countries on your route, states that restitution is due “if the carrier admits the loss of the checked baggage, or if the checked baggage has not arrived at the expiration of 21 days.” (For domestic flights, the Department of Transportation has similar rules, offering leeway for the airlines to decide when to declare luggage “lost.”)
Eventually, Mr. Hobica softened a bit — remembering his outrage and lack of restitution when a furniture company once fumbled a sofa delivery — and relented that you might deserve something. But, he said, it would be a disservice to other passengers to think they were going to get $1,500 per bag that was, eventually, found.
Instead, he noted that fliers are entitled to purchase reasonably priced replacements when their luggage is delayed, and the airlines must pay. Again, both international and domestic policies are largely aligned that airlines are “liable for damage occasioned by delay” of luggage — that’s the convention — and should pay for reasonable, verifiable and actual incidental expenses that they may incur while their bags are delayed.
Passengers should insist on those payments and never give up, researching if the credit card they bought their ticket with also offers coverage, filing an online complaint with the Transportation Department and, in a worst-case scenario, going to small claims court. “The airline won’t show up and you’ll win by default,” Mr. Hobica said. “But it shouldn’t come to that.”
Paul Bland, executive director of the nonprofit consumer advocacy group Public Justice, agrees that small claims court is a viable option, and not just those outraged at airlines but also other situations where travelers feel a contract has been breached. He noted that even when it seems we sign away our rights to sue through small-print arbitration clauses, an exception is usually carved out for amounts eligible for small claims suits. (In New York City, that means anything under $10,000; in Texas, where small claims courts are called justice of the peace courts, the amount is now $20,000.)
You can take companies to court in any jurisdiction where they have a business address, and fees to file are usually under $50. You do not need a lawyer.
Do note that in less straightforward cases like yours, Laura, you will need to make a good case, even if the defendant does not show up.
“The truth is that small claims judges do what they think is fair,” Mr. Bland said. “They decide the cases quickly and with a certain element of rough justice, a sense of what’s right.”
In other words, Laura, there’s a chance you would have gotten your $3,000 in small claims court as well — especially if you don’t call on Mr. Hobica or me as expert witnesses.
It's been a rough summer for the airlines industry with record flight delays and cancellations. Now, we're also hearing from fliers not getting their luggage when they arrive at their final destination.
It happened to Raleigh resident Jacqueline Hodge when she flew from RDU to the Dominican Republic on American Airlines for a week-long vacation.
"I'm looking for my other bag and it was nowhere to be found," she said. This was her first time out of the country, and she was forced to scramble to get necessities. "I was staying at a resort; I bought a can of deodorant. It was $10.00."
Without her bag, Hodge said she had to spend a lot of money out of pocket to enjoy her trip. She said she was never notified the bag arrived while she was in the Dominican Republic, so when she flew back home she tried to find her missing luggage.
"When I got back to RDU, I went in American baggage claim and asked about my bag. My bag made it to the DR the next day," she said.
Hodge filed a lost luggage claim with American Airlines but she said all she got back was an automated email that the airline received her message and will get back in touch with her.
She waited nearly a month but still, no one with American Airlines got back to her in regards to her missing bag.
Hodge got in touch with Troubleshooter Diane Wilson for help. Hodge said to Wilson, "American Airlines contacted me the next day, saying that my bag was in a warehouse in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, and they will send it to me, but it's been a whole month!"
It's key to know your rights. If it's lost or delayed, report it to the airlines right away. If you buy anything while you're without your luggage keep receipts. According to the US Department of Transportation, airlines are required to compensate you.
The maximum liability allowed by regulation is $3,800 for domestic flights and $1,800 for international flights. Airlines can pay more but aren't required to do so.
When it comes to Hodge's case a representative provided this statement: "American strives to return delayed luggage to customers as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, weather and operational issues may slow down the process in some instances. Our team has reached out to the affected customer and they have since received their baggage. We understand it can be frustrating when travel doesn't go as planned, and we apologize to those customers whose plans have been impacted by delayed baggage."
Just days after Troubleshooter Diane Wilson got involved, Hodge was mailed her bag that's been missing for a month and she says she's happy to have it back in her possession. Besides finding her bag, she also received compensation for the items she had to buy since she didn't have it for the trip.
"I just wanted to thank you for helping me get my luggage back. I really appreciate you. Just thank you so much because I don't think I would have got it without your help," she told Wilson
With all that's going on with air travel right now, it's a good idea to pack as light as possible. Try and fit everything in a carry-on, at least enough to get you through a couple of days. Besides insurance, also consider paying for the flight with a credit card that offers protections for lost or delayed luggage.
Upgrading your polycarbonate or softsided luggage to aluminum might seem like an unnecessary indulgence. But investing in one of these sleek, durable and stylish suitcases will keep your cargo well protected in the long haul.
Here are our top aluminum luggage picks in 2022, based on user reviews.
Why invest in aluminum luggage? In addition to the sleek and luxurious look of metal, aluminum is less likely to crack compared to polycarbonate, making it a more long-term option.
The biggest downside? Aluminum luggage often weighs more than plastic or fabric suitcases. Carry-on suitcases generally weigh in the 10-pound range, while check-in bags may get up to 16 pounds.
In terms of price, expect to pay more for aluminum, as the cost of materials and production is higher. Keep in mind that brands like Rimowa offer complimentary maintenance and warranty specific parts that might break over the years.
We rounded up some of the best check-in and carry-on luggage from brands like Rimowa, Away, Tumi, Zero Halliburton and Level8. Check out the top rated picks below, perfect for your next flight or road trip.
Rimowa recently added the Pilot Case to their lineup, perfectly sized and shaped for the traveling professional or commuter at 16.5 inches and 10.8 pounds. You can add your name to the wait list to be notified when the Pilot Case is available.
Away Travel offers sleek, functional suitcases at a reasonable price point. Jet setters will appreciate the removable, rechargeable battery for on-the-go phone charging, the easy-to-set TSA-approved lock and smooth rolling spinner wheels.
Away's upgraded aluminum edition offers a more wallet-friendly alternative to Rimowa with the same features as the durable polycarbonate bags that put the brand on the map. The aluminum version comes in four sizes: two carry-ons and two check-in. It's available in three metal tones: silver, onyx black and rose gold. The smaller carry-on weighs 10.1 pounds, the medium-sized 10.6, the smaller check-in 13.3 pounds and larger version, 16 pounds.
Tumi crafted this sleek, 16-pound suitcase out of lightweight aluminum. Features including TSA-approved locks, smooth swivel wheels and an impact-resistant telescoping handle for all-around easy maneuverability. Interior highlights include compression straps, a removable garment sleeve and lots of zipper compartments for organization.
Worried about losing your luggage? As part of the Tumi Tracer program, the bag includes a 20-digit number for easy identification.
The luxurious 22-inch, 12.5-pound Zero Halliburton Continental suitcase fits overhead on most domestic flights and boasts a smooth moving wheel system trademarked by the brand. A three-stage telescopic handle, TSA-compliant lock system, leather accents and a roomy interior with lots of organizational features make the brushed metal suitcase a keeper. Its smaller size also makes it a great choice for road trips. Available in silver, black and bronze.
Crafted out of Aerospace-grade aluminum magnesium alloy, the Gibraltar, available in silver and gray, weighs 10 pounds and fits neatly in the overhead bin of an airplane or the trunk of a car. Keyless and zipperless, the sleek suitcase also boasts TSA-approved locks, 360-degree durable spinner wheels and comes with a four-piece organizer bag set.
Whether you jet off every other weekend or take one holiday a year, having the right luggage is vital to a good trip. You want luggage suited to your travel style, good quality, and durable. After all, who wants a luggage bag that will break before you even leave the airport? Or a wheeled suitcase on an Amazon jungle trek? Your luggage bag is important travel gear.
Top Luggage Brands for Every Budget
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Outside of the realms of common sense, though, comparing luggage brands is still an exhausting process. There are lots of factors that you need to take into consideration, and this guide will highlight the most important ones that you should look at. Let’s dive straight into it. These are the best luggage brands for every traveler and every budget.
1. Best lightweight luggage brand: Level 8
Level 8 pioneered ‘traveling efficiently’ and lightweight bags are a huge part of efficient travel. After all, dragging a back-breaking luggage bag down a busy airport hall will never be an efficient way to travel.
Because of Level 8’s intelligent designs, most of the brand’s products are already lighter than competitor products. Level 8 luggage bags are sleek, unfussy, and reliable. You’ll find bags created from extremely durable materials and of all different shapes and sizes.
Of course, for extra lightweight bags, Level 8 also offers products specifically designed to be as light as possible. The Pro Carry-On with Laptop Pocket is a prime example of specialized, lightweight luggage by Level 8. The bag is made with aerospace-grade material to maximize protection yet minimize unnecessary weight.
Level 8 is one of the best luggage brands for lightweight products, whether you want less weight to carry or just extra packing room.
2. Best luggage brand for frequent flyers: TravelPro
TravelPro is known to be a favorite amongst airlines and airline staff (And Dave and Deb too!). If TravelPro is good enough for flight attendants and pilots, you can bet it is good enough for your average frequent flyer.
TravelPro was masterminded by a pilot named Bob Plath in 1987. As a frequent flyer himself, Bob recognized a huge gap in the luggage market – spinner wheels. Bob’s design caught on, and now you rarely (if ever) see a large suitcase without spinner wheels. Not only was the idea revolutionary, but it also demonstrated TravelPro’s unique understanding of its target audience. TravelPro luggage is designed by frequent flyers, for frequent flyers.
Like Samsonite, TravelPro luggage ticks a lot of boxes. It is a great all-rounder known for excellent product quality and durability. TravelPro also offers a lifetime warranty, so if you want to purchase your next long-term travel sidekick, this is the right luggage brand.
3. Best budget luggage Brand: AmazonBasics
There is no denying that luggage brands can be expensive, and not everyone wants to splash out hundreds of dollars on luggage. Those wanting a budget luggage brand should choose AmazonBasics. AmazonBasics has created a good quality, low-cost balance that revolutionized the luggage game. You can pick up cheap suitcases, carry-on bags, and heavy-duty backpacks.
The variety of luggage options is excellent for those on a budget, as you can purchase reasonably priced bags no matter your travel style or upcoming holiday type. If you want a hardside checked bag to withstand a long-haul flight, AmazonBasics will have an affordable selection of options. If you want an easy-access, lightweight carry-on bag, AmazonBasics will also have a mixture of budget options available. There is no sense of sacrifice necessary.
Amazon is also known for its good customer service and speedy delivery system – a definite bonus when purchasing products from a low-cost luggage brand.
4. Most durable luggage brand: Tumi
Tumi is one of the most frequently mentioned luxury brands when shopping for luggage. Has it got somewhat of a label status and following? Yes. However, Tumi luggage is also our top recommendation for durable suitcases and travel bags.
Tumi luggage is built from the best materials on the market. A special material that Tumi uses is Tegris, which is 100% Polypropylene and renowned for its high impact resistance – meaning fewer dents and a highly protective layer for all your valuables. Tumi is unique in using Tegris and is the only brand to use the material as it holds an exclusive material license. Think of it as Tumi’s secret ingredient.
Tumi sells both hard side and soft side luggage. Hardside luggage is typically made from aluminum and Tegris, with heavy-duty wheels. Softside luggage is usually made from abrasion-proof ballistic nylon. This heavy-duty fabric is perfect for long-lasting products.
Overall, Tumi luggage is extremely durable and an excellent investment. The brand is our top recommendation for anyone prioritizing durability in their search for a new luggage bag.
5. Best luxury luggage brand: Bric’s
Everybody loves a little luxury in life, and Bric’s luggage is a luxury brand worth your dime. The Italian brand oozes class and style and produces durable and reliable products.
Bric’s has shown an ongoing dedication to quality and keeping production local. The luggage company was founded in 1952 and is still family-owned and run. All the products are still created in Italy, at family-owned factories in Como.
If you love the luxury look, choose one of Bric’s fine leather luggage bags. Leather is Bric’s trademark feature and is even used on its hard side suitcases, where Bric’s includes leather trim. Bric’s specifically uses Italian Tuscan leather, which gives the bags an extra prized cultural quality.
For luxurious luggage, Bric’s is one of the best luggage brands you can choose. We especially love the use of local trademark products.
6. Best hard-side luggage brands: Samsonite
When looking for the best luggage brands for hard-side luggage, you want a solid allrounder with many product options. Samsonite ticks a lot of boxes and is a great choice when shopping for hard-side luggage.
Durable? Yes. High-quality? Yes. Samsonite had a wide range of luggage types, all of which would be a great purchase. Samsonite is a bit like a sweet shop for potential luggage buyers. However, the American brand is really popular for its hard-side luggage.
Samsonite hard-side luggage is made from 100% polypropylene and is ideal for protecting your valuables against knocks. The material is both durable and easy to shape – meaning you can choose from many designs and styles. We especially liked the diverse designs, colors, and personalization options. Even the spinner wheels come in different styles and sizes.
Samsonite is one of the best luggage brands if you want hard-side luggage but don’t know where to start. You’ll have plenty of high-quality choices, like the Samsonite Omni PC.
7. Best carry-on luggage brand: Monos
Monos is a firm favorite and easily one of the best luggage brands in the industry. The brand has a range of luggage choices, from garment bags to hard-side suitcases. However, we particularly recommend the Monos carry-on range.
We love how well thought out the carry-on designs are at Monos. Monos has various carry-on sizes, depending on your packing style, preferences, and airline regulations. The Canadian-based brand focuses on simplicity, functionality, and durability – perfect factors for the ultimate carry-on bag.
Carry-On is one of Monos’ best options. The case is hard-shelled and water-resistant. It also features vegan leather details in a fashionable but ethical statement. Four-wheeled carry-ons like this are very easy to maneuver and balance much easier than a two-wheel suitcase. Not only is this great news for navigating airports, but it also means less risk of the case taking a topple and damaging your valuables.
Of course, when choosing a carry-on size, make sure to consider which airlines you typically fly with and their individual sizing regulations. But Monos carry-on luggage is designed to comply with most airline flight regulations, so picking the right purchase should be nice and easy.
8. Best sustainable luggage brand: Paravel
Sustainable carryon
Want to make a sustainable purchase? Then Paravel is one of the best luggage brands to support. It might sound too good to be true to use recycled plastic water bottles to create beautiful, high-quality bags and cases. But that is exactly what Paravel does.
As of 2022, Paravel has upcycled over five million plastic water bottles from the ocean and has created millions of luggage products with recycled materials. Nylon, polycarbonate, vegan leather, and even upcycled cotton all go into carefully designed, sustainable products. This Aviator Carry-On case has a lining made from fifteen plastic water bottles, which is pretty cool if you ask us.
Paravel has even perfected a carbon-neutral packaging and shipping system, so you can receive your order with a clear conscience. Paravel’s message is inspiring: explore the world while minimizing your impact on it.
9. Best checked luggage brand: Antler
Sometimes checking your bags is the better way to travel. If you are staying abroad for months at a time, you’ll probably have a lot of valuables to bring with you.
Antler is our recommendation for checked bags. The brand has an ideal range of options in different sizes and styles. It also passes all the essential quality checks with flying colors, so you can relax knowing you have a reliable case for your travels.
Our favorite quality about Antler check-in bags is that they are color-fast. This means that if your case gets scratched, the color underneath is the same as the rest of the case. When you are handing your case over to other people, you inevitably risk it being scratched when roughly handled. With the color-fast feature, you guarantee a more long-lasting aesthetic and minimize the appearance of wear and tear.
Even in the medium-sized hold bags, Antler still ensures plenty of packing space. The Clifton Medium has an impressive packing capacity of 75 liters. What more could you ask for?
10. Most secure luggage brands: Delsey
Perhaps it is to be expected that a company that initially sold camera cases would take luggage security seriously. Delsey started selling leather camera cases in 1946 and luggage in 1970.
Delsey luggage features a TSA-approved lock on every bag. Some bags have a particularly sneaky feature that includes a coded lock with a hidden open button should you forget your combination. Delsey also has a patented anti-theft zip, which is three times more difficult for would-be thieves to break into than a standard zip.
For a secure luggage brand, Delsey is our top recommendation. The Parisian luggage brand also has some trendy designs – so keep your eyes peeled for any upcoming Delsey bargains.
11. Best wheeled luggage brand: Hartmann
The best wheeled luggage brand is quite a claim. For Hartmann, though, we think this bold claim is well-deserved.
The brand has recently reinvented its wheel design to maximize maneuverability and provide travelers with a bag that ‘glides’. The new design has a much harder steel bar bearing, creating a higher quality steering mechanism. Some of the bags have multidirectional wheels with 360-degree rotation, which is an additional quality you may wish to consider.
The 7R Master Spinner is a bag you should definitely look at. This bag is part of Hartmann’s new 2022 collection and has multidirectional wheels and an updated wheel system.
12. Best outdoor luggage brands: The North Face
The North Face is probably known more for its outdoor jackets than as a luggage brand. But the qualities of waterproof, windproof jackets are definitely transferable to bags. Who wouldn’t want waterproof luggage? And what better way to protect the necessities you bring with you outdoors?
The North Face has sporty-looking luggage that is suitable for the outdoors but is still fashion-conscious. Heading on a city break in a rainy destination? A waterproof and outdoor-friendly bag is a good idea; it doesn’t need to clash with your outfit. The North Face specializes in urban fashion, and its products have a cool but functional quality.
This Base Camp Duffel is a bold statement bag for anyone that likes the athletic street style. It has a 75-liter capacity, easy access to zipped pockets, and it is water repellant. Worth a try, we think.
13. Best luggage brand for storage: BEIS
Packing space is important. Everyone knows it or at least realizes it when it comes to packing for a trip. By choosing a BEIS bag, you can get ahead of the game.
When it comes to storage, BEIS rules supreme. The brand prioritizes functionality, which means every bag has good packing capacity and thoughtful adaptations to make organization just that little bit easier.
You won’t be stuck for space with any BEIS luggage options. However, consider the Large Check-in Roller if you want extra room for storage. With a maximum storage capacity of 112 liters, this check-in bag is a great choice. The bag has compression flaps and extensions to adjust the sizing as necessary. And, for over-packers, the built-in weight limit indicator will tell you immediately if you’ve gone overboard.
Fancy some accessories? BEIS sells smaller specialized bags, like a water bottle sling and cosmetic case. The brand also sells organizational accessories like packing cubes – guaranteed to make storage just that bit simpler.
14. Best luggage brand for business travelers: Horizn
Business travel is demanding, rewarding, exciting, and innovative all at once. You could be flying off to help with training for an international company, meeting potential clients to score a huge deal, or perhaps attending a conference. The point is, whatever you are doing, you are in full ‘go’ mode.
Horizn is designed for modern travelers, and its luggage products are full of innovative features. Our favorite is the charging port, which allows you to charge your mobile on the move. In the days of Slack and Zoom calls, keeping electronics charged is a necessity in the business world and something business travelers will appreciate. The charging feature works via a removable power bank which is cabin approved, unlike charging ports in many other bags.
Horizn luggage is sleek and professional looking. You can also purchase luggage sets and personalized bags so that you can quickly identify your bag at the luggage carousel.
15. Best luggage brand for customer service: Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton luggage suitcase set. Berlin, Germany
Louis Vuitton is a massive name in the designer world. In fact, for many, Louis Vuitton bags are a household name.
It goes without saying that quality and status come at a high price when buying Louis Vuitton luggage. You can expect to pay upwards of $2,000 for a carry-on case like the Horizon 55 Monogram Canvas. However, Louis Vuitton does not provide a lifetime warranty for luggage, so you may wonder what customer post-purchase support is like.
In a word, it is brilliant. Louis Vuitton customers receive access to an expert care service. Through this service, you can send your item for expert repairs at fixed rates per area of damage. The brand has a customer service helpline that is open seven days a week. Plus, you can message customer advisors on Facebook, Apple, or Whatsapp if you don’t want to send a good old-fashioned email.
Louis Vuitton luggage is a lifelong purchase, and the brand’s customer service reflects that. We recommend Louis Vuitton as a good option if you want excellent post-purchase care.
16. Best luggage brand families: Trunki
Okay, Trunki luggage products aren’t going to fit all your family’s items for a full holiday. However, the brand’s little ride-on suitcases are perfect for families traveling with young children.
The suitcases provide just the right storage capacity for a child’s clothes and holiday items and come in fun, small sizes that are easy for children to handle independently. Of course, the winning feature is that parents can pull the ride-on suitcases while the children sit on them. This is a great way to relieve airport stress and make those long corridor walks more fun for children.
Trunki has many different designs, including a tiger and the option to design your own case. You could let your child get involved in the creative process or personalize it on their behalf as a surprise.
17. Best luggage brand for adventure travel: Eagle Creek
Eagle Creek luggage has a name established for itself in the adventure travel industry. The brand was founded in the San Jacinto Mountains, and it’s well-connected to the needs and requirements of its target market. While Eagle Creek went out of business it was acquired and lives on.
Eagle Creek specializes in duffel bags and backpacks that are durable enough to withstand extreme conditions and wear and tear. However, Eagle Creek also has wheeled suitcases for those looking for a more classic purchase. Each product has specialist features leaving you perfectly equipped to tackle the great outdoors. From tie-down straps to gear pockets, Eagle Creek luggage is made to assist, not just come along for the adventure.
If you want to get all your shopping done in one place, you’ll be happy to know that Eagle Creek sells travel accessories. You can buy packing cubes, luggage tags, and money belts. There is also a gift shop section selling pouches that are perfect for carrying a mobile phone, swiss army knife, or other accessories. If you are looking for a gift for an adventurer you know, it might be worth shopping at Eagle Creek even if you aren’t bag hunting.
18. Best luggage brand for leisure travelers: American Tourister
American Tourister luggage is not the most durable brand on our list, but it does provide good quality luggage in exchange for reasonable prices. For leisure travelers, the wear and tear of a couple of holidays a year is not frequent enough to make durability a massive concern. So, if you want the best luggage brands for leisure travel, American Tourister is at the top of our list.
The brand is relatively Gen Z targeted despite being founded in 1933, so it should appeal to the ever-changing modern market. You’ll find bright colors and trending designs, making American Tourister a fun brand to shop at. American Tourister has made an apparent effort to move with the times, so leisure travelers will be able to relate to and appreciate the luggage designs on offer.
If you like to research brand background, it is worth noting that the brand is actually now owned by Samsonite and was bought in 1992. While the brands maintain different styles, marketing approaches, and products, you may wish to research both companies’ ethics and policies.
Overall, American Tourister is one of the best luggage brands for leisure travelers. Cheap, cheerful, and trendy, the brand is excellent for purchasing luggage for occasional use.
19. Most stylish luggage brand: Calpak
Fun carryon by Calpak
Calpak luggage is super stylish and also quite reasonably priced. The brand is clearly happy to both follow trends and set them, which is always refreshing when looking for a new bag.
We like the varied luggage types and styles that Calpak has on sale. You can purchase carry-ons, checked suitcases, and smaller luggage like a garment bag or duffel. The marbled Astyll Carry-On Luggage is a classy buy – suitable for business travel or a holiday with friends. You could also opt for something more minimalistic like the plain-colored Hue Medium Luggage in jade.
Calpak’s tagline ‘travel looks good on you’ rings true, and you are bound to find a bag to suit your individual style. You can relax knowing your purchase is good quality as well. Each luggage bag features a TSA-approved lock and top-of-the-range durable materials.
20. Best softside luggage brand: Made Leather Company
Prefer soft side luggage? Made Leather Company is a great choice when purchasing a new bag, especially for carry-on luggage.
Forget fabric suitcases. Made Leather Company sells ethically sourced and handmade leather bags from Morocco. Founded in 2016, the brand is so successful it has already attracted the attention of high-end travel publications like Travel + Leisure.
This Navigator Duffle is a traditional, softside carry-on. As a product, the manufacturing process is incredible. The leather was tanned naturally over six months, and the bag was hand-stitched by talented artisan bag makers in Morocco. If you want luggage with a bit of character and backstory, Made Leather Company has a lot of options.
21. Best luggage brand for warranty policy: Briggs Riley
Warranty policies are important. Not only do they guarantee your purchase long-term, but they also prevent waste and environmental damage by reducing the luggage products that go to landfills. Who wouldn’t love unlimited free repairs on their favorite bag?
Out of all the best luggage brands in our guide, Briggs Riley has the best warranty policy. Not only does the brand have a lifetime warranty policy, but it also includes incidents like damage by the airline – which most other brands omit.
The policy comes with every Briggs Riley luggage product, so you don’t need to worry about factoring in policies while shopping. It is great having peace of mind while shopping and traveling with your purchase. In fact, purchasing a Briggs Riley is one of our best travel tips when it comes to luggage. (When you purchase this and all your luggage make sure to register for their warranties)
22. Best overall luggage brand: Away
Away is our best overall luggage brand for both business and leisure travelers. Each bag comes with a 100-day trial period, and you also receive a lifetime warranty – making an Away bag a lifelong investment.
Away luggage was founded and is based in New York City. The brand’s products have a trendy, cutting-edge quality, and customer service has excellent reviews. Away luggage is a great all-around choice – aesthetically pleasing, durable, and under a lifetime warranty.
What to consider before buying luggage
So, we’ve covered the best luggage brands for a range of popular travel styles and priorities. However, you should also consider some general factors when purchasing new luggage. Let’s take a quick look.
Durability
Travelers should consider durability as their number one factor when purchasing a new luggage product.
If you travel often, you’ll want an incredibly durable bag that will be a worthwhile purchase and a reliable asset to your trips. Frequent travelers need a hardy, durable bag that they can grab out of the wardrobe at a second’s notice and know it will be ready to go.
Even if you don’t travel often, durability is a way to get a better bang for your buck. But, when spotting durable luggage, what should you look out for?
Zippers, lining, and stitching are usually the quickest things to break on a bag. Not only should you read customer reviews, but you should also inspect the bag’s quality in the photo and preferably in person. Stitching should be equal, the lining should appear tearproof and strong, zippers should have smooth teeth, and the zip should slide securely but freely.
Warranty
Accidents can happen even when you triple-check the bag quality and buy from a reputable luggage brand. If you want to invest in a piece of luggage for the long term, you should consider whether it comes with a warranty and, if so, how long it is covered.
Some brands give a lifetime warranty, although what accidents and damages you are covered for does vary per brand. Others give set periods under warranty, usually between two and five years. Some brands give no warranty at all outside of their general return policy.
Make sure to check what the brand’s warranty policies are when purchasing new luggage. You can definitely save yourself a headache and a big bill in the future.
Weight
It might go without saying, but you should be comfortable carrying your bag. Even with wheeled luggage, you may need to pick it up to navigate the stairs or grab it off the luggage belt.
Check how heavy the bag is empty, and make sure that you are actually comfortable carrying the bag at maximum capacity. If not, you may want to choose the size below. Most brands offer medium and large-sized bags in both check-in and carry-on sizes.
To conclude
Buying luggage is always a tricky process. There are many factors to consider and compare, and so many brilliant brands are out there. It is lots of fun as well, though, so enjoy the process and don’t rush into a purchase.
Hopefully, this guide has matched you to your dream luggage or at least provided you with some food for thought. Luggage is an important part of your travel experience, and we hope you find your perfect match. Whoever said that money couldn’t buy happiness clearly never had a brilliant suitcase.
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