Choosing the right luggage for international travel is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey, it`s something different from shorter trips you take locally.
When traveling across borders, you will need a suitcase that is durable enough to withstand the rigors of transit, yet with plenty of space for souvenirs you might buy and still be lightweight enough to meet airline weight restrictions.
Features like TSA-approved locks, sturdy wheels, and ergonomic handles are non-negotiable for seasoned travelers. Your luggage should also be spacious enough to accommodate your belongings while offering compartments for organization.
To navigate the wide array of options, it’s important to consider the type of travel you’ll be undertaking so you don`t end up squeezing everything in weekender bags.
Soft-shelled suitcases may offer more flexibility and are generally lighter, but hard-shelled luggage provides better protection for your valuables and typically stands up better against the elements.
Expandable designs can be invaluable for bringing home additional purchases, while spinners with four wheels offer ease of movement through airports and city streets.
Furthermore, the best luggage for international travel often includes innovations such as built-in USB ports for on-the-go, charging, and location tracking technology to keep tabs on your belongings.
Remember that high-quality luggage is an investment; opting for a trusted brand can save you from the inconvenience of a broken suitcase when you are far from home.
Assess your specific travel needs, and choose a piece of luggage that balances perfect size, comfort, functionality, and style.
Determining Your Luggage Needs
When planning for international travel, it’s essential to understand airline restrictions on luggage sizes and weights.
As well as to decide whether to use carry-on only or checked luggage to best meet your travel needs as international flights usually mean you are away for some time.
Understanding Luggage Size and Weight Limits
International airlines have strict regulations on the size and weight of luggage. Before packing, check your airline’s luggage policy to avoid extra fees or the need to repack at the airport.
Typical carry-on luggage dimensions are 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), but these can vary by airline and should be confirmed beforehand.
Weight limits for carry-ons often range from 15 to 22 pounds (7 to 10 kg), while checked luggage usually has a maximum weight of 50 pounds (23 kg).
- Carry-ons: Convenient for short trips. They must fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat.
- Checked bags: Necessary for longer travel or items not allowed in carry-ons. These go into the aircraft hold.
Airline policy is often based on either a weight concept (limit on total weight irrespective of the number of pieces) or a piece concept (fixed number of baggage pieces). This table demonstrates typical restrictions:
| Airline | Carry-On Size Limit | Carry-On Weight Limit | Checked Luggage Weight Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| British Airlines | 22″ x 14″ x 9″ | 22 lbs (10 kg) | 50 lbs (23 kg) |
| Qatar | 21.5″ x 13.5″ x 7.5″ | 18 lbs (8 kg) | 70 lbs (32 kg) |
I use Qatar more than other airlines when I fly.
Choosing Between Carry-Ons and Checked Luggage
Your choice between carry-on and checked luggage depends on the trip duration, convenience, and the items you want to take to and from your travel.
Carry-on luggage is ideal for short stays or if you want to avoid the risk of lost baggage. With carry-ons, you can exit the airport more rapidly upon arrival.
However, space constraints limit your pack amount, and security restrictions may prohibit certain items.
You may like
The best luggage for teenage girls
The best backpacks with wheels
Is a backpack considered a carry-on?
Checked luggage allows for more packing capacity and the ability to bring items that exceed carry-on restrictions, such as liquids over 3.4 ounces.
Keep in mind that checked bags have a higher risk of getting lost and usually require you to wait at baggage claim, adding time to your travel.
When selecting luggage for international travel, consider:
- Trip duration and purpose: Determines the quantity of clothing and equipment needed.
- Type of items you are carrying: This affects whether they should be close at hand or can be checked.
- Personal comfort: Whether you prefer having your belongings with you at all times or don’t mind checking them in.
Types of Luggage for International Travel
Choosing the right type of luggage for your international travel can impact your trip comfort and convenience.
It’s essential to consider luggage durability, design, size, and your travel needs. But at the same time, consider layover times when traveling, a larger heavy suitcase gets heavier when you have a long layover period.
Hardside vs. Softside Luggage
is known for its protective exterior, usually made of materials like polycarbonate or ABS. These pieces can better withstand the rigors of travel and protect your fragile items.
Brands like Samsonite, Rimowa, and Away offer innovative designs that blend functionality with style. For instance, the Samsonite line includes textured finishes that resist scratches, while Rimowa is recognized for its distinctive grooved shells.
In contrast, Softside luggage is typically constructed from fabrics like nylon or polyester, offering more flexibility. They often come with external pockets, making it easier to access travel essentials.
Options from Travelpro, renowned for durability and ergonomic features, or Delsey, which combines practicality with a French touch, exemplify strong contenders in this category. Both hardside and softside luggage can be a part of matching luggage set to provide versatility for different trip lengths.
- Durability: Hardside luggage tends to be more durable against impacts.
- Flexibility: Softside luggage may offer more flexibility with an expandable design.
Backpacks, Duffels, and Weekenders
Backpacks
crafted for travel, like those from Eagle Creek or Patagonia, often integrate specialized compartments for devices and documents, ergonomic support for comfort, and durable materials suited for the outdoors.
Duffels, including wheeled variants by Briggs & Riley or Dagne Dover, provide an ample main compartment that can be useful for packing without constraints.
They are a go-to for travelers seeking spacious yet portable solutions.
The durability and design of these duffels are crafted with the traveler in mind, striking a balance between convenience and capacity.
Weekenders from brands such as Béis and Monos strike a delicate balance between being compact enough for short trips and spacious enough to carry all your essentials.
They cater to a minimalist aesthetic while ensuring practicality with their thoughtfully placed pockets and compartments.
- Backpacks: Suitable for hands-free travel and keeping valuables secure. My best carry-on luggage is a backpack small enough and light enough.
- Duffels: Ideal for flexible packing and easy handling.
- Weekenders: Perfect for short trips with a sleek design and efficient space.
When selecting luggage for international travel, prioritize pieces that combine durability with functionality, including features that enhance security, maneuverability, and capacity.
Because even the best travel luggage is useless if it does not meet your needs.
Wheels and Maneuverability
Your luggage must be easy to maneuver through crowded airports.
Opt for a high-quality spinner design with self-aligning spinner wheels, as they provide 360-degree movement.
Ensure wheels are quiet and made from high-quality materials to withstand the rigors of travel. Compression straps can also aid in maintaining the bag’s shape and balance.
- Spinner Wheels: Provides multidirectional movement
- Quality: Durable materials for longevity
- Maneuverability: Ease of movement through tight spaces
Handles and Ergonomics
An ergonomic handle system is crucial for comfort while traveling.
Choose luggage with a strong telescopic handle that locks into place, preferably an ergonomic handle designed to minimize hand fatigue.
Look for options with additional side and bottom handles to make lifting easier.
- Telescopic Handle: Adjustable and lockable for height preference
- Ergonomic Handle: Designed for comfort
- Additional Handles: For convenient lifting and carrying
Locks and Security
Security is paramount. Select luggage with TSA-approved locks, allowing security agents to inspect your bag without damaging it but at the same time, stopping baggage handlers from opening your luggage in your absence.
Opt for high-quality zippers that can withstand pressure and are less likely to break. For added protection against theft, consider luggage with puncture-resistant zippers. You can check for a TSA-approved lock here.
- TSA-approved Locks: Facilitates security checks without damage
- Durable Zippers: For increased security and longevity
In terms of practical details, look for features like water-resistant materials to protect your belongings, expandable compartments to adjust capacity as needed, and a built-in USB port to keep your devices charged.
A durable, functional piece of luggage meets your needs and withstands the demands of international travel.
Luggage Materials and Durability
When selecting luggage for international travel, the materials and durability are paramount. The right choice can ensure your belongings are protected and your investment lasts for years.
Impact Resistance and Material Choice
To withstand the rigors of travel, hardshell luggage with a hardy polycarbonate shell is recommended.
Polycarbonate is known for its impact-resistant qualities, capable of absorbing shocks and compressive forces.
This material is also typically scratch-resistant, keeping your luggage aesthetic intact over time because of the hard shell.
- Hardshell Materials:
- Polycarbonate: High impact resistance, lightweight.
- ABS Plastic: Usually combined with polycarbonate for strength and cost-efficiency.
Water-Resistance and Protective Features
Your luggage should be able to endure different weather conditions. Water-resistant materials are essential in protecting your contents from rain or spills.
Seek luggage with water-resistant zippers and coatings that can offer an additional layer of protection.
- Water-Resistant Features:
- Protective coatings on fabric
- Treated zippers
- Seam sealing
Eco-Friendly Options with Recycled Materials
Eco-conscious travelers should consider luggage made with recycled materials.
These sustainable options reduce waste and often maintain the durability and functionality of their non-recycled counterparts.
- Eco-Friendly Materials:
- Repurposed plastics
- Recycled polycarbonate
- Sustainable textiles
Choosing luggage made of robust materials and durable construction like hardy polycarbonate or utilizing eco-friendly options with recycled materials is not just a sustainable choice but a sound investment.
Seek pieces that come with a limited lifetime warranty, indicative of a manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s durability.
Convenience and Accessibility
When selecting luggage for an international trip, the ease with which you can pack, access, and carry your belongings is paramount.
Luggage should not only accommodate all your items but also allow you to reach them without hassle.
Expandability and Compression Options
For flexibility in packing, look for luggage with an expandable option. This feature allows your bag to become more roomy just like a travel backpack when you need extra space.
Most expandable bags incorporate a zipper mechanism that, when unzipped, increases the main compartment’s volume. Additionally, an internal compression system can significantly reduce the bulk of your packed clothes.
Features like a compression pad or compression straps help to condense your items and maximize the packing space, keeping your belongings secure during transit.
Internal Organization and Packing Ease
Your luggage should include components that assist in tidy packing. Built-in garment folders and sections for organization ensure your clothes arrive with minimal wrinkling.
Seek out options with interior compression designed to hold clothes in place the best luggage brands do this very well.
A hidden laundry bag is also valuable for separating worn clothes from clean ones. Luggage that incorporates these elements can streamline the packing process and make for ease of use when unpacking upon arrival.
External Compartments and Accessibility
For items you need to access readily, external compartments are essential. A built-in front compartment is ideal for storing travel documents, electronics, and snacks.
This external pocket should be easily reachable without opening the main compartment. Furthermore, opt for luggage with self-aligning spinner wheels for effortless maneuvering through airports.
These wheels pivot 360 degrees, allowing you to navigate crowded spaces smoothly and with control.
By focusing on luggage that promises expandability, strategic internal organization, and easily accessible compartments, you’ll enhance your travel experience with both convenience and efficiency.
Innovative Luggage Technology
Travelers today have a wealth of cutting-edge luggage options that offer both convenience and style.
These technological advancements enhance your travel experience, ensuring that your journey is as smooth as your arrival.
Smart Features for the Modern Traveler
Your luggage can now do more than just carry your belongings. With the Away The Bigger Carry-On, you have a case that not only fits in most airline overhead bins but also includes a USB port to charge your devices on the go.
This handy feature keeps you connected throughout your journey. As for security, some luggage comes equipped with GPS tracking capabilities, allowing you to locate your bags straight from your smartphone — a valuable feature when traveling through busy international airports.
| Key Smart Features | Description |
|---|---|
| USB Charging Ports | Keep your devices charged while on the move. |
| GPS Tracking | Track your luggage’s location via smartphone. |
| Digital Locks | Secure your belongings with app-controlled locks. |
| Built-In Weight Sensors | Avoid excess baggage fees with automatic weight alerts. |
Customizable Luggage and Personalization
In a world where personalization is key, your luggage can also make a personal statement. Brands like Away offer a minimalist look while allowing you to customize features such as color, monograms, or stickers.
Their Carry-On Pro includes an external laptop pocket, pairing practical function with sleek design.
Imagine choosing the exact size, color, and features that suit your travel style and needs. With these customizable options, you create luggage that’s uniquely yours.
| Customization Options | Impact on Travel Experience |
|---|---|
| Size & Dimension Choice | Perfectly match your travel requirements. |
| Color Personalization | Stand out on the conveyor belt or in the crowd. |
| External Pockets | Quick access to electronics and travel documents. |
| Monograms & Stickers | Add a personal touch to your minimalist luggage. |
By embracing these innovations, your international travel experience becomes more refined, personal, and worry-free.
International Travel Luggage Brands
Choosing the right luggage brand can make a substantial difference in your international travel experience. Durability, design, and functionality are key factors that vary by brand.
Established Brands with a Proven Track Record
: With over a century in the luggage industry, Samsonite offers a wide range of products known for their robustness and reliability. Their collections are suitable for both leisure and business travel.
American Tourister: Owned by Samsonite, American Tourister provides cost-effective luggage options without compromising on quality. Their vibrant designs are popular among families and younger travelers.
Travelpro: Favored by airline professionals, Travelpro is renowned for its sturdy and functional suitcases that endure the rigors of frequent travel.
Briggs & Riley: This brand offers innovative designs with its unique lifetime warranty, ensuring their bags are an excellent long-term investment.
Rimowa: Recognized for its distinctive grooved design, Rimowa’s high-end aluminum and polycarbonate suitcases are a status symbol with unmatched durability.
Delsey: A French brand that stands out for its chic style and dependable luggage options designed to enhance your travel comfort.
Eagle Creek: Specializing in adventure travel, Eagle Creek’s gear is built tough and often comes with practical features like water resistance and organized compartments.
Up-and-Coming Brands and Innovators
Away
: A modern brand that has quickly gained a following for its minimalist aesthetics and smart features such as built-in USB chargers.
Monos: Monos boasts a commitment to sustainable materials, alongside a sleek design that appeals to eco-conscious and style-savvy travelers.
July: This Australian newcomer offers innovative luggage with an emphasis on strength and security, equipped with tamper-proof zippers and a lifetime warranty.
Béis: Founded by actress Shay Mitchell, Béis luggage is designed for practicality with a sense of style, targeting the needs of modern travelers.
Paravel: Paravel’s eco-friendly approach includes recycled materials and a carbon-neutral manufacturing process, appealing to green travelers.
Calpak: Calpak is noted for their fashionable yet affordable travel gear that doesn’t compromise on quality, with options varying from hardshell to softside luggage.
Dagne Dover: Offers multipurpose travel bags with a focus on organization, combining fashion with utility for travelers who appreciate a place for everything.
Amazon Basics: Amazon’s approach to luggage is about delivering value, offering a range of basic but reliable options for travelers on a budget.
Patagonia: Known for their outdoor apparel, Patagonia also offers a line of durable travel bags and packs that uphold the brand’s environmental and ethical standards.
Packing Tips for International Travel
When preparing for international travel, your packing efficiency and adherence to airline guidelines are critical.
Choosing the best luggage—such as the Travelpro Platinum Elite—and employing strategic packing techniques will optimize your experience.
Maximizing Space with Packing Techniques
To maximize your packing space in a suitcase like the Travelpro Platinum Elite, start by using compression bags or packing cubes.
They not only organize your belongings but also compress clothes, freeing up extra space.
A compression system is invaluable, especially one with a compression pad that flattens clothes, reducing bulk.
Roll your clothes instead of folding them to fill every nook and cranny and consider multi-purpose garments that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits with fewer pieces.
- Method: Rolling clothes
- Benefit: Saves space, reduces wrinkles
Special Considerations for Fragile and Valuable Items
For fragile and valuable items, the best approach is to use a hardshell suitcase, which offers better protection from the pressures of travel.
Wrap each item separately in bubble wrap and place them in the center of your suitcase, cushioned by clothing.
Garment bags can protect delicate fabrics and suits. Always keep valuables such as jewelry or electronics in your carry-on to minimize the risk of loss or damage.
- Suitcase Type: Hardshell
- Protection Level: High
- Item Placement: Center of the suitcase
- Cushioning Method: Surround with clothing
Adapting to Airline-Specific Restrictions
Before packing, consult your airline’s size and weight limits to avoid additional fees.
For most international airlines, the standard cabin baggage size is around 21 x 14 x 9 inches, but always verify as restrictions can vary.
A scale can help you stay within weight limits—typically 50 pounds for checked baggage. If your suitcase doesn’t have a built-in scale, a portable luggage scale is a practical investment.
- Standard Cabin Baggage Size: 21 x 14 x 9 inches
- Checked Baggage Weight Limit: 50 pounds
- Tool: Portable luggage scale
By remaining mindful of these techniques and considerations, your international travel experience will be smoother, ensuring that your belongings arrive securely at your destination.
Travel Luggage Warranties and Guarantees
Investing in reliable travel luggage is essential for international travel. A good warranty can reflect a brand’s confidence in the durability of its products’ high quality.
Understanding the types of warranties and guarantees available is crucial to making an informed choice.
What to Look for in a Luggage Warranty
- Coverage Period: Look for warranties with significant coverage time. A 10-year limited warranty is a common term you’ll come across, which provides a decade of protection against defects.
- Inclusions and Exclusions: Check what the warranty actually covers. Some warranties may cover airline damage, while others solely focus on manufacturing defects.
- Repair, Replace, Refund: Note how the brand handles warranty claims. Policies vary, with options including repair, replacement, or a refund.
, for example, offers warranties that may vary based on the product line, but they generally include a global warranty system which can be quite comprehensive.
Delsey usually provides a worldwide limited warranty, which often covers your luggage for defects in material and workmanship.
Brands That Stand Behind Their Products
- Away: Known for its modern design, offers a lifetime warranty, reflective of its commitment to its products’ longevity.
- Travelpro: Often chosen by flight crews, offers a reassuring warranty policy which includes repair or replacement for damage by airline handlers for some of their products.
- Amazon: As a retailer, carries a variety of luggage brands; it is important for you to review each product’s warranty information carefully.
Samsonite
and Delsey are reputable brands with warranty options, reinforcing their customer commitment. Reading the fine print of your luggage purchase can save you future headaches.
Here is a quick reference table summarizing the warranty offerings:
| Brand | Type of Warranty | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Away | Lifetime warranty | Durability and functionality |
| Travelpro | Varied warranty terms | Includes airline handling damage |
| Samsonite | 10-year limited warranty | Defects in materials & workmanship |
| Delsey | Worldwide limited warranty | Defects in materials & workmanship |
Remember, your luggage is a long-term investment. The quality of the warranty can be just as important as the quality of the suitcase itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Selecting the ideal luggage for your international travel is crucial for a hassle-free trip.
Consider brand reliability, functional features, size, and material to align with your travel needs and constraints.
What are the top luggage brands recommended for international travel?
When traversing the globe, brands like Samsonite, Travelpro, and Tumi stand out for their durability and design.
Rimowa and Briggs & Riley also offer high-end options favored by seasoned travelers.
What features should I look for in carry-on luggage for overseas journeys?
For carry-on luggage, prioritize features like TSA-approved locks, 360-degree spinner wheels, and sturdy handles. Also, look for compartments that allow easy access to electronics and in-flight essentials.
How do I choose the best lightweight luggage for long-haul flights?
The best lightweight luggage balances durability and a light frame.
Opt for polycarbonate or high-strength fabric options for luggage sets and check for reinforced corners and handles that withstand rough handling.
What is the ideal size for luggage when traveling internationally?
Most airlines allow luggage sizes up to 62 inches (linear dimensions).
However, always verify the specific size and weight restrictions with your airline to avoid extra fees.
Should I opt for hard-sided or soft-sided luggage for international trips?
Hard-sided luggage provides better protection for fragile items and is typically more water-resistant.
Soft-sided luggage offers more flexibility and exterior pockets for quick access to belongings.
How can I find high-quality international travel luggage that is also affordable?
To find high-quality yet affordable international travel luggage, look for sales, consider last year’s models, and check reviews for value brands that offer durability without the premium price tag.
Conclusion on luggage for international travel
In selecting your luggage for international travel, prioritize durability and security.
Hard-shell suitcases with TSA-approved locks are a solid choice, ensuring your belongings are protected against rough handling and theft.
Consider the following features:
- Size: Keep within airline size restrictions to avoid extra fees.
- Weight: Opt for lightweight designs to maximize packing allowance.
- Wheels: Four spinner wheels offer easier maneuverability.
- Compartments: Multiple sections aid in organizing your items neatly.
Remember that high-quality luggage is a wise investment. It withstands the rigors of travel and offers peace of mind.
Brands with excellent warranties indicate confidence in their products and ensure long-term value.
When packing, balance the needs of your destination with efficiency. Always leave space for souvenirs and unexpected purchases.
Using packing cubes can dramatically improve your packing strategy, making unpacking and repacking much simpler during your journey.
Finally, personalize your luggage to ensure quick identification at baggage claim. Distinctive tags, straps, or suitcase covers prevent mix-ups and save time.
Your travel experience can be greatly influenced by your choice of luggage. Quality, practicality, and personal comfort should be the guiding factors in your decision, enhancing both the journey and the destination.