![We Found the Best Luggage for International Travel, So You Should Probably Book a Trip (1) We Found the Best Luggage for International Travel, So You Should Probably Book a Trip (1)](https://i0.wp.com/hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/beis-soundwave-ecomm-launch-contenttile-suitcase-3x2-option1-copy-6601f43c5b425.jpg?crop=0.668xw:1.00xh;0.167xw,0&resize=640:*)
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If you’re reading this, I hope it’s because you’re about to jet off on a fabulous trip across the pond. You deserve it. If you ask me, international travel is one of *the* best ways to spend your hard-earned PTO and $$—you get to see beautiful places, meet incredible people, taste new cuisines, and learn about yourself in the process (even if you just learn that you’re too high-maintenance to stay in a hostel). That said, no matter where you go, you’re going to need some trusty travel companions at your side—and by that, I mean you’re going to need some killer luggage.
Whether your final destination is Antarctica or the Maldives, a good set of luggage is absolutely essential if you want to stay organized. (If you’ve ever tried to walk a mile through a hot, bustling airport with a busted suitcase and a painful personal item digging into your shoulder, you get it.) So, I put together this list of the best luggage for international travel, with picks for the best carry-on, checked suitcase, underseat bag, backpack, sling bag, and more. Here’s a little sneak peek before I go into more detail...
Our top picks for the best luggage for international travel in 2024:
best checked luggage
Béis The Large Check-In Roller
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best softside luggage
Travelpro Crew VersaPack Global Carry-On Spinner
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best luggage for the organizationally challenged
Solgaard Carry-On Closet Large
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Chic, right!? But for real, there are a lot of travel bags on the market, and I promise you these are the best of the best. Happy trails!
Pros
100-day trial policy
Interior compression system
Includes a water-resistant laundry bag and luggage tag
Fits in the overhead bin on most airplanes
Cons
Can scuff, but comes with a sponge to buff them out
On the pricier side
I’ve said it once, I'll say it a million times: Away suitcases are popular for a reason. Beyond their good looks, they’re just elite: durable, functional, and dependable. When I’m heading out on an international trip, this is my go-to carry-on (like, this color and everything). I can fit almost a week’s worth of outfits inside if I pack smart, and the interior compression system smooshes everything down and locks it all in place. I also love the water-resistant laundry bag Away includes in every suitcase—it folds up small when not in use, but becomes a blessing in disguise when you have damp bathing suits or muddy socks you want to keep separate after a day of adventuring.
Number of Colorways | 10 |
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Dimensions | 21.7" x 13.7" x 9" |
Spinner Wheels? | Yes |
TSA-Approved Lock? | Yes |
Alternate Sizes | The Bigger Carry-On |
best checked luggage
Béis The Large Check-In Roller
best checked luggage
Béis The Large Check-In Roller
Pros
Interior compression flap and straps
Weight limit indicator on the side handle (so useful!)
Expands an extra two inches
Cushioned handle
Pouch set for dirty clothes
Includes Béis Limited Lifetime Luggage Warranty
Cons
Some reviewers note that the outer shell can dent
Have to pay a restock fee to return
If you’re heading overseas for more than a week, chances are you’re going to want to check a bag. And if that’s the case, this roller bag from Béis is your holy grail. This suitcase is large and in charge, perfect for trips where you know you’re not going to be packing light. It’s got a bunch of interior flaps and straps to keep clothes compressed and secure, and can even expand an extra two inches in case things get tight. Of course, if you’re flying, you still have to be cautious about how much you pack due to those pesky weight limits set by the airlines. But this suitcase helps you know your limits so you can stay within them, thanks to a weight indicator built right into the side handle.
Number of Colorways | 9 |
---|---|
Dimensions | 18.75" x 12" x 30.5" |
Spinner Wheels? | Yes |
TSA-Approved Lock? | Yes |
Alternate Sizes | The 26" Check-In Roller |
Pros
Interior divider with pockets and compression straps
Up-right straps allow it to hinge open
Covered by Limited Calpak Warranty
Designed to fit under most airline seats
Cons
Some reviews mention the handle being wobbly
Doesn't fit under ALL airline seats, so you have to check before traveling
Just look how cute she is! Totally precious! But also: totally practical. This lil baby was designed to fit under most airline seats, so you can stash it beneath your feet and forget about it the rest of your flight. Perfect for a weekend trip somewhere warm (hotter weather means fewer clothes means more room to pack, okay?) or as an accompaniment to your checked bag, I promise you can fit more in here than you think. It also has upright straps that allow the bag to hinge open when you unzip it, so you can easy grab an item or two from inside while you're on the go.
Number of Colorways | 9 |
---|---|
Dimensions | 16" x 14" x 8.5" |
Spinner Wheels? | Yes |
TSA-Approved Lock? | Yes |
Alternate Sizes | Carry-On |
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Pros
Zipperless access
20-height telescopic handle
Stain-proof laundry bag
Y-strap interior compression system
Lifetime warranty and 100-day returns
Free personalization
Cons
Some reviews note that it gets minor scratches easily
When you’re packing for a month or more abroad, a trunk-style suitcase can be your best friend. And this pick from July is one of the best trunks on the market. In a nutshell, it’s a great option when you need to pack a sh*t ton of stuff, because (a) it’s massive, (b) it’s easy to roll around no matter how heavy it is, and (c) it opens and closes on a dime thanks to two latch locks. The glazed polycarbonate shell keeps all your belongings safe while also looking chic, but you can also invest in their neoprene trunk covers if you want to protect against the inevitable scuffs and marks that come with a trip through the luggage carousel.
Number of Colorways | 11 |
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Dimensions | 28.25” x 16.5” x 14.5” |
Spinner Wheels? | Yes |
TSA-Approved Lock? | Yes |
Alternate Sizes | No |
best softside luggage
Travelpro Crew VersaPack Global Carry-On Spinner
best softside luggage
Travelpro Crew VersaPack Global Carry-On Spinner
Now 25% Off
Pros
Spinner wheels are self-aligning for smooth travel
Zip-in garment organizer
100-day free trial
Expands an extra two inches
Cons
Additional zip-in organizers cost extra
Colors aren't as fun and unique as some other brands
Hard-shell suitcases aren’t for everyone, and that’s okay. There are plenty of fabulous softsides on the market—including this expandable pick from the no-nonsense luggage brand TravelPro. Perfect for business travel, this suitcase also means business, with all the features you could possibly dream up—from self-aligning spinner wheels to a built-in USB port and everything in between. The brand is also really big on organization, so the bag comes with a zip-in garment organizer that acts as a packing cube of sorts for your clothes.
Number of Colorways | 2 |
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Dimensions | 21.5" x 14" x 9" |
Spinner Wheels? | Yes |
TSA-Approved Lock? | No |
Alternate Sizes | No |
best luggage for the organizationally challenged
Solgaard Carry-On Closet Large
best luggage for the organizationally challenged
Solgaard Carry-On Closet Large
Pros
Patented built-in shelving system
Lifetime warranty
Interior lining made from ocean-bound plastic
Waterproof and scratch-resistant shell
Zipperless access
Cons
Some reviewers say it scuffs easily
Now, this pick is probably a little different than any other suitcase you’ve seen before. But hear me out: You’re gonna want to give it a chance. Especially if you struggle to stay organized on the go. The luggage comes equipped with a six-shelf “closet”—complete with different zippered compartments—into which you can pack your clothes, toiletries, and accessories. When you arrive at your destination, you just clip the top of the closet to either the suitcase handle or a closet rod, allowing you to see all your belongings at a glance. According to the website, it can fit more than a week's worth of outfits, and if that's not magic, then I don’t know what is.
Number of Colorways | 9 |
---|---|
Dimensions | 22.4" x 14.6" x 9.6" |
Spinner Wheels? | Yes |
TSA-Approved Lock? | Yes |
Alternate Sizes | Carry-On Closet Medium |
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Pros
15-inch laptop sleeve
Features QuickSnap Modular Kit System (aka the pouch on the front!)
Trolley sleeve
Multiple interior and exterior pockets
Water-resistant material
Cons
Can be a little tricky to use trolley sleeve when the bag is super full
Another piece of luggage I don’t go anywhere without? This backpack from Monos. It’s everything you want out of a personal item, ie. it doesn’t dig into your shoulders, fits way more than it appears to, can slide right under the seat in front of you, has a trolley sleeve so you can hook it onto your roller bag, has a slot for your laptop, and more. My favorite feature, however, might be the little pouch you can see on the front of the bag—it snaps on and off, so you can fill it with essentials you want to keep with you on a flight (think: lip balm, hand sani, medications) and stash the rest of the backpack in the overhead bins to save space.
Number of Colorways | 10 |
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Dimensions | 11.5" × 16.5" × 6" |
Materials | Vegan leather or nylon |
Pros
Separate bottom pocket for shoes and dirty clothes
Memory-foam-stuffed strap for comfy carrying
Trolley sleeve
Multiple interior and exterior pockets
Available in two sizes
Cons
Can start to hurt your shoulder if the bag is super heavy (like any duffel, really)
Some reviews note that lighter colors can show dirt and scratches easily
Heading out on a weekend away? You’re gonna want a good duffel—and I recommend this neutral cutie from Lo & Sons. Available in either small or large, it has a detachable (and washable) bottom pocket for shoes or dirty clothes, multiple zippered and slip pockets on the inside and outside, a trolley sleeve for when you’re using it as a carry-on, a strap stuffed with memory foam, and more. It’s also made with eco-friendly canvas and recycled poly, and I’m alllll for that sustainability.
Number of Colorways | 8 |
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Dimensions | 9" x 18.5" x 18" |
Materials | Recycled poly or eco-friendly canvas |
Pros
Multiple size options
ID window for labeling (and comes with paper labels!)
Mesh windows on cubes allow you to see what’s inside and keep things breezy
Water-resistant coating for easy cleaning
Cons
Some reviewers mention trouble with zippers (editor's note: I own these and have never had an issue!)
If you’re not using packing cubes every trip you take, you’re doing travel wrong. Whether you’re heading out for a quick getaway or getting ready for a semester abroad, packing cubes *will* change your life (or at least the way you pack). This set from Béis has everything you need to keep your suitcase organized and your belongings clean and controlled, including three packing cubes, two shoe bags, and a water-resistant pouch. Tip from moi: If you’re going on a shortish trip (two weeks or less), unpack one of your cubes and designate it your dirty laundry holder for the rest of the trip.
Number of Colorways | 1 |
---|---|
Dimensions | Small cube: 9" x 12" x 4"; medium cube: 11" x 15" x 4"; large cube: 17.5" x 12.5" x 4" |
Materials | PVC, polyester, nylon zipper, mesh |
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Pros
Water- and scratch-resistant material
Interior and exterior zip pockets, as well as three interior sleeve pockets for cards and cash
Anti-catch zipper
Fits all the essentials
Built-in keychain carabiner
Cons
Honestly, I own this and wear it everywhere and I can’t think of one single con
Sometimes you don’t want to carry a bag around when you’re traveling. That’s where a good sling bag (see also: fanny pack), like this water-resistant one from Monos, comes in. It fits all the essentials—I can stuff my wallet, phone, hand sanitizer, lip balm, sunscreen, and even a small water bottle in there—and even has a carabiner for your keys. The best part, of course, is that it’s hands-free, so you can hold hands with your travel partner (even if said travel partner is your trusty iPhone) and still have a spare hand to touch and feel your way through your destination.
Number of Colorways | 9 |
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Dimensions | 10.24" × 5.51" × 1.97" |
Materials | Vegan leather or nylon |
What carry-on size is best for international travel?
21-inch carry-ons are elite because they’re considered “international carry-on” size. (FWIW, a “domestic carry-on” is typically 22-inches, so not that much larger.) This size is accepted by almost every airline across the world, fitting into overhead compartments with ease.
Of course, you should also do your research before any trip, because each airline has its own set of rules and regulations, and there’s nothing worse than being wrong and getting held up at the check-in counter. FYI, many airlines, especially abroad, have weight limits for carry-ons, as well, which most of us aren’t used to here in the U.S. So, pack accordingly!
What are the luggage weight limits for international travel?
Thought you’d never ask! We’re all used to the “50 lbs or less” deal for most checked bags, but many international airlines—and some domestic—will weigh your carry-on as well, as I mentioned. Some require the carry-ons to weigh as little as 15 lbs or less, and will be very strict and diligent in checking them before you get on the plane. This weight limit does range greatly between carriers though, so be sure to look at your airline’s rules before you fly.
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What to consider when buying luggage for international travel:
Size!
You end up spending quite a bit of time with your luggage on an international trip, so you'll want to make sure it's the perfect fit for you. Whether you're shopping for a checked bag, carry-on, or personal item, check the dimensions to make sure it'll fit (a) your airline requirements, and (b) comfortably on your body.
You'll also want to take a quick peek at the weight of the bag—both before and after you pack it. It's gotta be light enough to avoid oversized baggage fees, yes, but also so it won't be a pain in the butt to roll/carry around. If you're going to be bouncing about, the more lightweight your luggage, the better.
Style!
You want to look chic on the go, duh, but a well-designed bag will be beneficial in so many other ways. When shopping, you'll want to find luggage that suits your travel style. Prefer having an easy-access bag slung over your shoulder? Consider one of the backpacks or totes on the list. Rather wheel your sh*t around and take a load off? I know you saw the sleek spinners above.
There are so many luggage models on the market, many of which come in a variety of patterns and colorways, so feel free to get a little unique with things, too. It'll be a hell of a lot easier to spot a sweet lavender suitcase on the luggage carousel at the end of a long trip than the same black one everyone else has, just sayin'...
Special features!
Luggage has come so far in recent years, and plenty of bags have fun built-in features designed to make the travel journey easier and more enjoyable. Between 360-degree spinner wheels, USB ports for phone charging, TSA-approved locks, interior compression straps, and more, there are lots of things to look out for when shopping for your next international getaway. Prioritize what's important to you before you shell out any dough!
How we chose the best luggage for international travel:
As you probably know, Cosmo’s lifestyle team spends all day, every day scouring the internet, testing products, and reading reviews so we can bring you the type of high-quality content we’d want for ourselves (and our standards are preeeetty darn high, TBH).
It’s also really important to us that each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge, and we try to make sure the products we feature are good for both you and our planet. If we wouldn’t buy something for ourselves, we sure as heck won’t recommend it to you—and we’re always gonna keep it really, really real. Pinky swear.
Hannah Chubb
Lifestyle Editor
Hannah Chubb is the lifestyle editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things home, travel, food, health, career, and more. She spends pretty much every hour of every day curating the internet for the best new products, trends, and travel destinations. You can typically find her looking for houses she can’t afford on Zillow or Airbnb, planning her next meal before she gets to the restaurant, or taking all of the Justin Bieber classes over and over and over again on Peloton. Follow her on Instagram.