Traveling with kids isn’t always easy. The suitcase a child brings with them on a trip can be the difference between a great experience and a bad one when traveling. When a child is away from home, that suitcase represents them and holds all of their most valuable possessions at that time.
Not all kids’ luggage is alike. Before buying a suitcase for a child, you need to consider several factors to get the one that fits your youngster best. The age of the child, the child’s preferences, and their likes and dislikes are all significant. However, there are also several other factors to consider, such as how each type of suitcase would help (or hinder) a trip for a parent.
One suitcase that has proven to be best in class for kids is the Lil Flyer ride-on suitcase. It’s a hard-sided, easy-to-pull suitcase with spinner wheels. This one also doubles as a seat and stroller for weary little travelers who weigh up to 50 pounds. This gem of a travel suitcase for kids is also available in seven different colors and prints.
Luggage for kids is a bit different than travel pieces for adults. You must consider a few special things to find the best suitcase for a child:
A kid-friendly design is a must to showcase their favorite colors, favorite characters, or anything similar.
The size and weight of kids’ luggage matter a lot. In general, the smaller the child, the lighter and smaller the suitcase should be for easier handling.
While not every kid needs a bunch of compartments in a suitcase, most benefit from at least having a way to divide or divide and organize items inside.
Suitcases for kids that have wheels are much easier for them to transport.
Most suitcases are made from tough polycarbonate hardshell materials or wipeable vinyl. Hard cases are usually heavier but more durable. Soft cases are lighter but normally wear out faster.
Even though an adult will be with the child to help pull luggage, kids enjoy doing things for themselves. A suitcase with wheels is ideal for helping them develop a sense of accomplishment and independence.
However, children also tire quickly, so you may want to keep a backup plan in mind for how the suitcase will be transported (or by whom) when the little one tires out.
Don’t make a purchase decision based on price alone. Remember that during travel, that suitcase represents that child’s whole world. It needs to become a traveling companion for the child instead of a cumbersome, frustrating tag-along.
The huge variety of brands, styles, materials, and features reflects a similarly wide price range. Kids’ suitcases can cost anywhere from about $30-$200.
Lil Flyer ride-on suitcase by Younglingz
What you need to know: This hard-sided luggage is a durable, fun suitcase with wheels that you can use as a seat for little ones to rest upon. It has plenty of room for kids’ belongings inside.
What you’ll love: This kids’ suitcase doubles as a stroller with a seat belt, folding foot pedals, and a handle for parents to pull when needed. It also has a safety lock on the side.
What you should consider: With a weight of 10 pounds, it may be too heavy for little ones to pull for very long. Parents may want to be prepared to assist children with pulling, whether a child is riding on it or not.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Stephen Joseph classic rolling luggage
What you need to know: These character cases are lightweight, soft, and have tons of fun pockets and compartments. There are 16 fun designs for kids, all of which have bright colors and amusing characters.
What you’ll love: The wheels are sturdy, and so is the handle. It’s quick to wipe down and is a great size for kids. This kids’ suitcase is easy for children to transport.
What you should consider: The material is not as durable as the material on many other kids’ suitcases. It’s a little bit thin, which compromises durability slightly.
Where to buy: Available on Amazon
Skip Hop kids luggage with wheels
What you need to know: At just 2.25 pounds, this fun suitcase is nice and light. In addition, it has sturdy wheels and a retractable handle for easy maneuverability.
What you’ll love: The main compartment is big enough for a child’s favorite clothes. It includes a mesh bottle pocket and has zipper pulls that match the fun characters.
What you should consider: Some users report a parent strap was missing.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.
Sarah Harris writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
