Buying guide for best luggage sets
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If you’ve dealt with a broken suitcase handle or shattered roller wheels while trekking over European cobblestone streets, you know how important good luggage is. While you could purchase individual pieces as you need them, a luggage set often provides a better value — plus, having a matching set simply looks more stylish.
As you search for the perfect set, you’ll encounter different handles, wheels and organizational features. Some luggage sets expand and are better for longer trips, while others come in attractive colors and unique designs to make a fashion statement. If storage space is a concern, some sets have pieces that can nest inside each other so they take up less room.
To help you find a quality set you’ll love, we researched dozens of options and compared them in areas such as price, spaciousness and durability. We think the best choice for most travelers is the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage. Boasting sturdy, smooth-rolling wheels, these lightweight hardside cases not only look fantastic but are also guaranteed to last you for many years of adventures.
Editors' picks for 2025
Size: 21": 9 x 14 x 23 in | 25": 11 x 18 x 27 in | 29": 12.5 x 19.5 x 31 in | Weight: 21.2 lb (entire set) | Material: Polyester with DuraGuard coating | Special Features: 360-degree spinner wheels, expandable design, and ergonomic contour grip
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage set gives you three pieces of luggage that manage to feel both sturdy and surprisingly lightweight, a rare balance in the luggage world. The spinner wheels glide like butter across everything from polished airport floors to cracked sidewalks, and the expandable zippers give you just enough wiggle room for those last-minute souvenirs.
The fabric feels durable without being stiff, and the DuraGuard coating shrugs off scuffs and splashes like it’s no big deal. While the interior layout isn’t bursting with pockets, the roomy compartments and clever straps keep everything tidy. If you’re after a reliable set that won’t leave you in the lurch halfway through your trip, this one’s a solid bet.
Size: 21": 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 in | 26": 17.8 x 11.3 x 26.8 in | 30": 20.7 x 12.6 x 30.7 in | Weight: 28 lb (entire set) | Material: ABS hardshell with scratch-resistant finish | Special Features: Expandable for up to 25% more space, smooth 360-degree multi-directional wheels, interior divider with three zippered pockets
The Amazon Basics Three-Piece Hardshell Luggage Set doesn’t pretend to be fancy, but it gets the job done with quiet confidence and more resilience than you’d expect from the price tag. The ABS shell takes knocks like a champ, while the scratch-resistant finish keeps it looking sharp even after a few baggage claims.
We appreciate the expandable design that gives you just enough breathing room for bulkier hauls and the four multi-directional wheels that make navigating terminals feel nearly frictionless. Interior organization is simple but effective, and while the zippers aren't perfect, most travelers will find them plenty good enough.
Size: 21": 15.9 x 10.2 x 21 in | 28": 20.9 x 13.8 x 31.1 in | Weight: 16.1 lb (entire set) | Material: Polypropylene hardshell | Special Features: TSA-approved recessed combination lock, 360° spinner wheels, and expandable design
The Samsonite Freeform Two-Piece Set feels like it was made for travelers who want sleek design without sacrificing function. The outer shell looks futuristic and holds its own against scuffs and scrapes, and the ultra-light build makes lifting into overhead bins a breeze. The double spinner wheels glide like a dream, giving that easy-breezy upright roll that spares your shoulders.
The interior layout is intuitive and roomy enough for a week-long trip, while the expandable sides are handy when you inevitably return with more than you left with. The built-in TSA lock adds peace of mind, though setup can take a minute to figure out. While we’ve seen a few reports about the handle and zippers being hit-or-miss, the overall feel is of a modern, travel-hardened suitcase that’s ready for your next boarding call.
Size: 21": 14 x 9 x 23 in | 25": 18 x 11 x 25.5 in | Weight: 13.2 lb (entire set) | Material: Polyester with DuraGuard® coating | Special Features: Expandable design with tapered shape for balance, H2O guard interior lining protection, ergonomic PowerScope Lite handle with two locking heights
The Travelpro Tourlite Softside Two-Piece Expandable Luggage Set doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, but it does a great job refining the basics with a traveler-first mindset. The tapered expansion feature is a nice touch since it gives you extra space without throwing off the bag’s balance. The interior pockets are practical and well-placed, and the H2O Guard adds a layer of reassurance when you’re caught in the rain.
The zippers earn mixed marks since some users find them solid and others not so much. Still, the overall package feels like a dependable, no-fuss set that’s just as happy on a weekend getaway as it is on a longer haul.
Size: 20": 14.25 x 9 x 20.75 in | 28": 20.75 x 12.75 x 30 in | Weight: 18.85 lb (entire set) | Material: Polycarbonate with faux leather accents | Special Features: Double spinner wheels, TSA-approved zipper lock system, USB port for device charging
The Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Hardside Luggage brings a touch of Parisian charm to the tarmac, pairing vintage-inspired design with some modern tech under the hood. The polycarbonate shell feels light in the hand but surprisingly firm, with corner protectors and faux leather trim that make a statement without shouting. Rolling it is a breeze thanks to the smooth double spinner wheels, and the built-in USB port is a smart touch for charging on the go.
The interior is thoughtfully organized with included laundry and shoe bags, and the Silvadur lining keeps things fresh. While the zipper system earns praise for its added security, a few travelers have reported it can be temperamental. If you're the kind of flyer who likes your luggage to look sharp and travel smart, this set will definitely turn heads in the terminal.
What to know before you buy a luggage set
Types of bags
You’ll find luggage sets that include several different types of bags. Some of the most common are carry-ons and traditional suitcases. More comprehensive sets might include a tote, garment bag or toiletry bag.
Carry-on
Many travelers like to bring a carry-on for necessities and to avoid paying a fee for at least part of their belongings. Some travelers only travel with a carry-on because they like the peace of mind of knowing exactly where their things are. Most airlines limit carry-on bags to 22 by 14 by 9 inches. These small suitcases can usually be stowed in the overhead bin above your seat, but you might still be asked to check yours if space is tight. If your carry-on is small enough to fit under the seat, it’s less likely you’ll need to part with it in the event of a cramped flight.
Traditional suitcase
Most luggage sets include at least one traditional suitcase: a rectangular bag for clothing, shoes and other essentials. These bags can be hard-sided or soft-sided. They may have spinner wheels that move in all directions or in-line wheels that only glide forward and back. Most have a retractable handle that you can use to drag the suitcase behind you or push it in front of you.
You can easily find sets that include two, three or even four suitcases, usually of different sizes. You'll want to make your selection based on the number of people traveling and/or how long you'll be away. For example, a household of four might be able to pack everything in a three- or four-piece set for a weekend getaway.
Garment bag
Designed to carry unfolded clothing on hangers, a garment bag is useful if you’re traveling with a dress, suit or coat that you don’t want to get wrinkled. You won't see these very often as part of a luggage set, but if you do, it's likely to be in a larger set that includes three or four other pieces.
Many garment bags can be folded in half or thirds for easier carrying. In fact, some people who travel light contend that a garment bag is the only bag you need. If you agree with this, you might want to make sure that your garment bag has wheels and a handle.
Toiletry bag
This is a small case for holding things like a toothbrush, toothpaste, makeup, deodorant, shaving supplies, hairstyling tools and so on. Having a place for your toiletries in your checked bag is essential today since airlines don’t allow passengers to bring more than 3.4 ounces of any liquid in their carry-ons. Look for a toiletry bag that's sturdy and waterproof enough to avoid rips and spills and that fits easily inside your suitcase.
Tote bag
A travel tote is a soft-sided bag with a shoulder strap and short handles. It is generally considered a personal item on flights, so you can bring one in addition to your carry-on without extra charge. The best tote bags have a strap or back sleeve designed to securely slide over the extended handle of your suitcase so you can roll both as a unit. Most totes are large enough to hold a laptop and have roomy exterior pockets.
What to look for when buying a luggage set
Wheels
Rollers
Two-wheeled suitcases are called “rollers.” They have recessed wheels, which are less likely to snap off if handled roughly. Rollers are good for urban travel because they easily roll over curbs, sidewalks and rough pavement. However, the wheels only move forward and back, so you don't get as much flexibility if you need to change directions. A roller suitcase is ideal if you just need to pull the suitcase behind you.
Spinners
Four-wheeled suitcases are called “spinners” because each wheel can spin 360 degrees. They’re easy to maneuver in tight spaces, but they’re not so good at traversing rough pavement or curbs. Someone with strength or mobility issues may find a spinner easier to maneuver and handle. However, be aware that the external wheels on a spinner are more vulnerable to snapping off, and they also take up space, such as in an overhead compartment.
TSA-approved security locks
A suitcase with a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) lock is highly recommended for travelers. TSA-approved locks can only be opened by security agents with a master key, while non-TSA-approved locks on checked bags must be cut off if security needs to look inside your luggage. There is a range of styles, including TSA locks with keys and dial locks. Look for the Travel Sentry logo to ensure it’s TSA-approved.
Water resistance
Luggage spends prolonged periods outside before getting loaded onto the plane, and sometimes it can get wet. This is likely why hard-shell luggage has become so popular; however, soft-sided luggage can be equally water-resistant if it features a quality protective coating. As you search for water-resistant luggage sets, be sure to read the customer reviews and check to see if the brand offers water-resistant suitcases.
Zippers
Sturdy zippers are crucial when it comes to luggage. We would argue that you should spare no expense on durable suitcase zippers because if the zippers don't work, you can’t securely use the luggage at all.
There are two general types of zipper: coil and chain. Coil zippers, made of a material like nylon, can take quite a bit of wear and tear and can “self-heal.” Chain zippers have metal or plastic teeth that are very secure but also very prone to distortion with use.
Handles
Most of today’s wheeled bags have two handles: a telescopic or extendable handle on the top and a strap on the side. You want to make sure that both are sturdy and securely attached to the suitcase's body. Some telescopic handles operate by pushing a button for even more convenience.
Pockets
Generally speaking, the more compartments a suitcase has, the more organized your belongings will be. For example, it’s handy to have an outer pocket or two for things you want to access easily, such as tickets, maps and other necessities. Most hard-sided luggage does not have outer pockets, but most soft-sided bags do.
For some people, the inside pockets are more valuable than the outer ones. Some suitcases have multiple inner pockets, some have none, and some have just a single separate compartment. The ideal number of inner compartments is mostly a matter of personal preference. If your luggage doesn’t have many interior pockets, consider investing in a set of packing cubes to help organize your belongings.
Hard-sided vs. soft-sided luggage sets
You'll need to decide whether you prefer hard-sided (hardshell) or soft-sided (fabric) luggage. Both have pros and cons.
Hard-sided
These cases are usually made of polycarbonate, ABS plastic, or aluminum. They do a better job of protecting your belongings than soft-sided luggage. Hard-sided bags can be prone to dings and scratches, though some luggage brands advertise a “scratch-resistant” exterior. These bags are somewhat heavier than soft-sided luggage.
Soft-sided
These fabric bags are lightweight and more flexible than hard-sided bags. However, the material can be prone to rips and fraying and may not protect your belongings as well as a harder material.
How we analyzed
For this guide, we tested and researched dozens of options, looking at various aspects including size, capacity and weight. Because durability is key to a successful trip, we examined the materials used to make each suitcase, from the shell to the wheels to the hardware. For those who like to bring the comforts of home with them, we also considered how much each bag could hold, whether it was expandable and what kinds of pockets, compression straps and organizers were included.
FAQ
Q. How much does a luggage set cost?
A. You can find a soft-sided, two-piece luggage set for as low as $45. This luggage could be perfect for someone who travels infrequently, but it isn’t the best investment for someone who travels every other week for work. A set of two hard-sided bags starts at about $100.
If you opt for a luggage set that contains three to five pieces, expect to spend anywhere from $200 to $1,000, depending on the brand and number of premium features and materials used. Though the price is high, you’ll usually save money when buying expensive luggage in a set as opposed to buying individual pieces.
Q. Should I purchase luggage with locks?
A. Being able to securely lock your luggage provides extra peace of mind that all your belongings will arrive safely at your destination. Some pieces of luggage come with a locking mechanism so you can secure the contents. As we mentioned above, luggage that includes TSA-approved locks is your best bet, or you can purchase TSA-approved locks separately.
Q. How important is the color or design of my luggage set?
A. The color of your luggage is largely a matter of personal preference. That said, a neutral color like black or gray is more likely to disappear in a sea of similar bags on an airport baggage carousel. You can always attach something to your luggage to make it stand out, like a hot-pink ribbon or brightly colored luggage tag. Another option is to choose luggage in a bright color or distinctive pattern, so you can scope it out quickly at the baggage carousel.
