Traveling internationally can be exciting, but it can also be stressful. One of the biggest challenges is packing; finding the right suitcase can make all the difference. A good suitcase for international travel should be durable, lightweight, and easy to maneuver. It should also have enough space to hold all your essentials yet still fit within airline size restrictions.
Regarding suitcases for international travel, there are several types to choose from, including hardshell, softshell, and hybrid. Hardshell suitcases are made of tough materials like polycarbonate or aluminum and protect fragile items. Softshell suitcases are made of fabrics like nylon or polyester and are more flexible, making them easier to store in tight spaces. Hybrid suitcases combine the best of both worlds: a hard exterior and a soft interior.
One critical factor to consider when choosing the best suitcase for international travel is the size and weight restrictions of the airlines you’ll be flying with. Many airlines have strict rules about the size and weight of carry-on and checked luggage, so choosing a suitcase that meets these requirements is important. Another important consideration is the suitcase’s durability, as it must withstand the rigors of travel.
The Skycap News team spent hours researching and testing various suitcases to identify the best options for international travel. In the next section, we’ll share our top picks and why we think they’re the best choices for your next international trip.
Best Suitcases for International Travel
Regarding international travel, having the right suitcase can make all the difference. You want something durable, spacious, and easy to maneuver through airports and other busy travel hubs. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best suitcase for international travel. From hard-shell cases to soft-sided options, we’ve got you covered.
Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Spinner Luggage
We highly recommend the Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Spinner Luggage for anyone seeking a reliable and durable suitcase for international travel.
Pros
- The micro-diamond polycarbonate texture is extremely scratch-resistant, ensuring your luggage looks as great on the 100th trip as on the first.
- The four multi-directional oversized spinner wheels provide effortless mobility, making navigating through busy airports and streets easy.
- The push-button locking handles provide easy maneuverability when extended from the suitcase and store neatly inside when not used.
Cons
- If you overpack, the expansion zipper can get in the way, making the suitcase overweight.
- The carry-on size is slightly larger than some airlines’ common carry-on size restrictions.
- The red color may not be everyone’s first choice.
We recently took the Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Spinner Luggage on a two-week international trip and were impressed with its durability and functionality. The suitcase adapted well to the harsh travel elements and remained scratch-free throughout the trip. The spinner wheels made it easy to navigate through crowded airports, and the push-button locking handles were convenient to use.
However, the expansion zipper can get in the way and make the suitcase overweight if you overpack. Additionally, the carry-on size is slightly larger than some airlines’ common carry-on size restrictions, so be sure to check with your airline before traveling. Overall, we highly recommend the Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Spinner Luggage for anyone looking for a reliable and durable suitcase for international travel.
Travelers Club Midtown Hardside 4-Piece Luggage Travel Set
If you’re looking for an affordable luggage set that offers ample space and pockets for your belongings, the Travelers Club Midtown Hardside 4-Piece Luggage Travel Set is a great option.
Pros
- The set includes four pieces, making it perfect for extended trips or family vacations.
- The hard-side design provides extra durability and protection for your belongings.
- The set is expandable, allowing you to pack more items.
Cons
- The toiletry kit is small and may not fit all the necessary items.
- Some users have reported issues with the zippers breaking or getting stuck.
- Compared to more expensive luggage options, the set may not hold up well over time.
We recently used the Travelers Club Midtown Hardside 4-Piece Luggage Travel Set on a week-long European trip and were impressed with its functionality and affordability. The set includes a 26″ spinner suitcase, a 20″ carry-on spinner luggage, a 15″ boarding tote bag, and a 10″ toiletry kit.
The hard-side design provided peace of mind while traveling, knowing our belongings were well-protected. The expandable feature allowed us to pack more items for our trip, which was especially helpful on the way back when we had more souvenirs to bring home.
The set’s pockets and compartments were useful for organizing our belongings, but we found the toiletry kit small for all of our necessary items. We also had some minor issues with the zippers getting stuck, but overall they held up well during our travels.
While the Travelers Club Midtown Hardside 4-Piece Luggage Travel Set may not be as durable as more expensive luggage options, it is a great choice for those on a budget who still want a reliable and functional luggage set.
Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage
If you’re looking for a sturdy and stylish carry-on suitcase for your next international trip, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage is a great option.
Pros
- The precision glide system with eight MagnaTrac, self-aligning, 360-degree spinner wheels makes maneuvering the suitcase through crowded airports and busy streets easy.
- The tip-resistant expansion provides up to 2″ more packing capacity, perfect for longer trips or bringing back souvenirs.
- The built-in USB port and dedicated power bank pocket are convenient features that let you charge your devices on the go.
Cons
- The suitcase is heavier, weighing 7.8 pounds, which may be an issue if you’re trying to pack light.
- The high-density nylon fabric with DuraGuard coating is resistant to stains and abrasions, but it may not be as durable as other materials.
- The price point is on the higher end of the spectrum, which may not be ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Overall, we recommend the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage for anyone who values style, functionality, and convenience in a carry-on suitcase. The suitcase is well-designed and packed with useful features, making it a great investment for frequent travelers.
In terms of its design, the suitcase is sleek and stylish, with premium fabrics, genuine leather accents, and chrome zippers. The drop-in, fold-out suiter is a nice touch that helps keep your clothes wrinkle-free. At the same time, the interior tie-down system includes built-in accessory pockets and a TSA-compliant, removable quart-sized wet pocket for toiletries.
One of the standout features of the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage is the precision glide system with eight magnatrac, self-aligning, 360-degree spinner wheels. This system provides precise control and effortless roll, making navigating through busy airports and crowded streets easy. The adjustable PowerScope extension handle with patented Contour grip and rubberized touch points also adds to the ease of use.
The tip-resistant expansion is another useful feature that provides up to 2″ more packing capacity without sacrificing stability or balance. This is perfect for longer trips or for bringing back souvenirs. The built-in USB port and dedicated power bank pocket are also convenient features that let you charge your devices on the go.
Overall, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage is a high-quality, well-designed carry-on suitcase packed with useful features. While it may be pricier, we believe the investment is worth it for frequent travelers who value style, functionality, and convenience.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage
If you’re looking for lightweight, durable, and spacious checked luggage for your next international trip, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage might be the perfect fit.
Pros
- Weighs only 7.3 lbs, making it easy to maneuver and lift.
- The 4-wheel spinners rotate 360 degrees for a smooth roll, and the patented contour grip handle provides a comfortable grip.
- The expandable zipper increases packing space by up to 2 inches, allowing for more flexibility.
Cons
- The low-profile top, side, and bottom carry handles are not as sturdy as they could be.
- The exterior compartments are not as roomy as some other luggage options.
- The telescoping handle locking mechanism can be finicky and may not work consistently.
We recently used this suitcase on a two-week trip to Europe and were impressed by its durability and spaciousness. The lightweight design made it easy to lift and maneuver, and the 4-wheel spinners allow for smooth rolling on various surfaces. The expandable zipper was a lifesaver when we needed to pack extra souvenirs on the way back.
However, the low-profile carry handles could be more sturdy, and we found that the exterior compartments were not as roomy as we would have liked. We also had trouble with the telescoping handle locking mechanism, which required some finicky adjustments to work properly.
Overall, if you’re looking for lightweight and spacious checked luggage for your next international trip, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage is definitely worth considering.
Kenneth Cole Out Of Bounds Lightweight Durable Hardshell 4-Wheel Spinner Cabin Size Travel Suitcase
We highly recommend the Kenneth Cole Out Of Bounds Lightweight Durable Hardshell 4-Wheel Spinner Cabin Size Travel Suitcase for anyone needing a reliable suitcase for international travel.
Pros
- The 4-wheel multi-directional spinners allow for smooth, effortless 360-degree free-weight maneuvering.
- The hard ABS exterior with reinforced protective molded corner guards absorbs shock for maximum impact resistance and durability.
- The spacious fully-lined interior features double-sided packing, a zippered organization pocket, and garment restraint straps to hold your clothes in place.
Cons
- The suitcase may not stand up to rough handling by baggage handlers.
- The plastic-reinforced corners may crack over time.
- The interior could use a few more pockets for better organization.
We have used this suitcase on several international trips, which has held up very well. The 4-wheel spinners make it easy to navigate through crowded airports, and the hard shell exterior provides excellent protection for your belongings. The suitcase is also lightweight, adhering to airline weight restrictions to avoid unneeded airport fees.
The only downside we have experienced is that the suitcase may not hold up to rough handling by baggage handlers, and the plastic-reinforced corners may crack over time. Additionally, the interior could use a few more pockets for better organization.
Overall, the Kenneth Cole Out Of Bounds Lightweight Durable Hardshell 4-Wheel Spinner Cabin Size Travel Suitcase is a great investment for anyone needing a reliable and stylish best suitcase for international travel.
Coolife Luggage Set
If you’re looking for a reliable luggage set for your international travels, the Coolife Luggage Set is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The set includes three different sizes of suitcases, making it perfect for any length of trip.
- The ABS material is lightweight and durable, ensuring your belongings stay safe during transit.
- The multidirectional spinner wheels make maneuvering through crowded airports and tight spaces easy.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the smaller suitcases are prone to tipping over when not packed correctly.
- The zippers can be finicky, especially when the suitcases are fully packed.
- The yellow color option may not be to everyone’s taste.
We recently took the Coolife Luggage Set on a two-week trip to Europe and were impressed with its performance. The suitcases are incredibly lightweight, making it easy to pack everything we need without worrying about exceeding weight limits. The multidirectional spinner wheels made navigating through busy airports and crowded train stations a breeze, and the sturdy ergonomic aluminum telescoping handle was comfortable to use.
One of this set’s standout features is that the suitcases nest inside one another for easy storage. This was especially useful when staying in smaller hotels with limited storage space. The interior mesh zip pocket and elasticated straps also helped keep our belongings organized and secure during transit.
While we did experience some issues with the zippers, they didn’t detract from our overall satisfaction with the set. We also appreciated the TSA-approved locks, which provided added peace of mind during our travels.
In conclusion, if you’re in the market for a reliable and affordable luggage set for your international travels, the Coolife Luggage Set is definitely worth considering. Its lightweight and durable construction and convenient design features make it an excellent choice for any trip.
Pelican Air 1615 Travel Case
If you’re looking for a durable and reliable best suitcase for international travel, Pelican Air 1615 Travel Case is a great option.
Pros
- The Pelican Air 1615 Travel Case is crushproof, dustproof, and watertight, making it the perfect hard case for protecting your camera, dive gear, equipment, electronics, drones, and more. It’s also lockable and TSA-approved.
- The case comes with wheels and a retractable extension handle, packing cube organizers, lid mesh and zippered storage compartments, and press-and-pull latches with TSA key locks, making transporting and organizing your belongings easy.
- Made in the USA, the military divers have trusted Pelican Air 1615 Travel Case and first responders (fire, police, EMT) since 1976. It also comes with Pelican’s Lifetime Guarantee of Excellence.
Cons
- The Pelican Air 1615 Travel Case is a bit heavy, weighing 19.00 lbs. This may be an issue if you’re looking for a lightweight suitcase.
- Some users have found the telescopic handle flimsy and are concerned about its durability.
- The price of the Pelican Air 1615 Travel Case is higher compared to other brands with similar quality.
Overall, the Pelican Air 1615 Travel Case is a great investment for those who need a durable and reliable suitcase for international travel. With its crushproof, dustproof, and watertight features, you can be sure your belongings are safe and secure. The suitcase also comes with useful features such as wheels, a retractable extension handle, and packing cube organizers, making transporting and organizing your belongings easy. While it may be heavy and pricier than other brands, its quality and lifetime guarantee make it worth the investment.
Steve Madden Designer Luggage
If you’re looking for a stylish and practical suitcase for your international travels, Steve Madden Designer Luggage is a great option.
Pros
- The lightweight and expandable design helps you pack everything you need without worrying about airline weight restrictions.
- Comfortable and convenient to use, thanks to the ergonomic handle and 4-spinner wheels system
- The stylish and elegant design makes you stand out from the crowd, and the suitcase is perfect for gifting.
Cons
- The suitcase may not be as durable as some other options on the market
- The zippers may not be as sturdy as you would like
- The suitcase may be too large for some travelers
We recently used this suitcase on a European trip and were impressed with its performance. The expandable design allowed us to pack everything we needed for our trip, including souvenirs we picked up along the way. The ergonomic handle and 4-spinner wheels system made maneuvering through airports and over bumpy terrain easy. We also appreciated the stylish and elegant design, which made our suitcase easy to spot on the baggage carousel.
One downside to this suitcase is that it may not be as durable as other options on the market. We noticed some wear and tear after just one trip, which may concern frequent travelers. Additionally, the zippers may not be as sturdy as you would like, which could lead to issues with the suitcase opening during transit. Finally, the suitcase may be too large for some travelers, especially those who prefer to pack light.
Overall, Steve Madden Designer Luggage is a great option for anyone who wants a stylish and practical suitcase for their international travels. While there may be some durability concerns, the expandable design, ergonomic handle, and 4-spinner wheels system make this suitcase a great choice for most travelers.
COOLIFE Luggage Expandable Suitcase
We highly recommend the COOLIFE Luggage Expandable Suitcase for anyone needing a reliable and durable suitcase for international travel.
Pros
- The streamlined design and patented two-wheel technology make for a smooth and quiet ride.
- The ABS+PC material is durable and lightweight, with a textured finish to prevent scratches.
- The adjustable 3-level 100% pure aluminum telescoping handle is sturdier than most on the market.
Cons
- The plastic body seems to be a bit weaker than other models.
- The TSA lock can be difficult to use.
- The 28-inch size may be too large for some travelers.
We recently used the COOLIFE Luggage on a European trip and were impressed with its performance. The two-wheel design made navigating through crowded airports and streets a breeze, and the textured finish prevented any scratches or damage to the suitcase. The telescoping handle was sturdy and easy to use, and the quiet airplane spinner wheels made maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze.
One drawback we noticed was that the plastic body seemed a bit weaker than the other models we used. Additionally, the TSA lock can be a bit finicky and difficult to use. Finally, the 28-inch size may be too large for some travelers, so it’s important to consider your needs before purchasing.
Overall, we were very pleased with the COOLIFE Luggage Expandable Suitcase and would recommend it to anyone needing a reliable and durable suitcase for international travel.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 International Carry-On Expandable Rollaboard
If you’re looking for a lightweight and durable carry-on suitcase for international travel, then the Travelpro Maxlite 5 International Carry-On Expandable Rollaboard is a great option.
Pros
- The suitcase is ultra-lightweight yet durable, making it easy to carry around and resistant to wear and tear.
- It meets the carry-on size restrictions for most international airlines, so you won’t have to worry about checking it in.
- The suitcase has plenty of packing space with an expandable zipper, adjustable hold-down straps, and multiple pockets for organization.
Cons
- The suitcase has only two wheels, which may not be as maneuverable as four-wheeled suitcases.
- The suitcase may tip over when fully packed due to its tapered shape.
- The suitcase may not be as stylish as other options on the market.
We recently used the Travelpro Maxlite 5 International Carry-On Expandable Rollaboard for a two-week trip to Europe, and we were impressed with its performance. The suitcase is incredibly lightweight, which made it easy to carry around during our travels. Despite its weight, the suitcase is durable and able to withstand the rigors of travel.
Thanks to the suitcase’s expandable zipper and adjustable hold-down straps, we packed everything we needed for our trip. The multiple pockets also helped us stay organized throughout our trip. We did notice that the suitcase may tip over when fully packed due to its tapered shape, but this was not a major issue for us.
The two-wheeled design of the suitcase may not be as maneuverable as four-wheeled suitcases, but we found that it was still easy to move around. The suitcase also met the carry-on size restrictions for most international airlines, which saved us the hassle of checking it in.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and lightweight carry-on suitcase for international travel, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 International Carry-On Expandable Rollaboard is a great choice.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best suitcase for international travel, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve put together a guide to help you make the right choice.
Size and Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a suitcase is its size and capacity. You want to ensure you have enough space for all your belongings, but you also don’t want to choose a suitcase that’s too large and cumbersome to carry around.
Consider the length of your trip and the type of items you’ll be packing. If you’re traveling for a week or more, you’ll likely need a larger suitcase. On the other hand, if you’re only going away for a few days, a smaller suitcase may be sufficient.
Durability
Durability is another important factor to consider when choosing a suitcase. You want to ensure your suitcase can withstand the rigors of international travel, including being tossed around by baggage handlers and bumped into by other travelers.
Look for suitcases made from durable materials such as polycarbonate or aluminum. These materials are lightweight yet strong enough to withstand the demands of travel.
Weight
The weight of your suitcase is also an important consideration. You don’t want to choose a too heavy suitcase, which can make it difficult to maneuver through airports and onto planes.
Look for the best suitcase for international travel candidates on this list that are lightweight yet durable. Some suitcases are made from lightweight materials such as nylon or polyester, which can help keep the weight down.
Wheels and Handles
The wheels and handles of your suitcase are also important features to consider. Look for suitcases with smooth-rolling wheels that can easily navigate airports and other travel environments.
You should also look for suitcases with comfortable handles that are easy to grip and maneuver. Some suitcases even have telescoping handles that can be adjusted to different heights for convenience.
TSA-Approved Locks
Finally, consider choosing a suitcase with a TSA-approved lock. If necessary, these locks are designed to be opened by TSA agents without damaging your suitcase. This can provide added peace of mind when traveling internationally.
In summary, when choosing the best suitcase for international travel, consider the size and capacity, durability, weight, wheels and handles, and TSA-approved locks. Considering these factors, you can choose the best suitcase for international travel to meet your needs and help make your trip more enjoyable.