THE LUGGAGE EDIT: The Absolute Best Travel Bags For Every Occasion

Whether you're jetting off for a business trip, packing for a leisurely weekend getaway, or balancing both, the right travel bag can make all the difference. After speaking with seasoned travelers and travel agents, we've narrowed down some of the absolute best travel bags on the market.

Away

• Why You'll Love It: Away has a stellar reputation for its durable, spacious designs and high-quality finishes. A favorite among many frequent flyers, it combines sleek aesthetics with practicality.

• Expert Opinion: "My Away luggage set is a favorite of mine. I received it as a Christmas gift a few years ago, and I absolutely love it. The quality is great, and it has a lot of space." 

• What to Consider: The hard shell luggage tends to scratch easily.

The Bigger Carry-On

Songmont

• Why You'll Love It: Known for sustainable and thoughtfully organized purses, Songmont bags are not just stylish but very practical.

• Standout Feature: Excellent compartmentalization to keep your essentials organized.

• Expert Opinion: Loved by actress, Kelly Rutherford, Songmont offers thoughtful design for the busy and eco-conscious traveler.

Courtesy of Kelly Rutherford and Songmont on Instagram

Tumi

• Why You'll Love It: Tumi bags are the epitome of urban chic blended with practical design. Their black nylon bags with gold hardware make a style statement, while their expandable carry-ons and backpacks are lauded for their functionality and space.

• Expert Opinion: "Their backpacks are unrivaled—light, stylish, and incredibly spacious. You'll never regret this investment" 

• What to Consider: While Tumi’s hard shell bags are durable, some find them too heavy and easily scratched.

Celina Backpack

Continental Expandable Carry

Briggs & Riley

• Why You'll Love It: Briggs & Riley is known for its exceptional quality and lifetime warranty, making it a favorite among frequent business travelers.

• Expert Opinion: "I found Briggs & Riley to be top-notch for durability and space. It's an investment that really pays off for frequent travelers who appreciate functional design." 

Essential 22'' 2-Wheel Expandable Carry On

Rimowa

• Why You'll Love It: Sleek, lightweight, and easy to maneuver on all floor types, Rimowa’s luggage is a luxury traveler's dream. It’s ideal for those who value both function and elegance.

• Expert Opinion: "I’m obsessed with how lightweight and easy to push around it is. Rimowa has nailed the streamlined luggage design." 

The Original Check-In L

BÉIS

• Why You'll Love It: BÉIS, founded by actress Shay Mitchell, has created luggage and travel bags for the everyday traveler with thoughtful features like a separate shoe compartment and waterproofed pockets.

• Expert Opinion: "I pretty much exclusively use BÉIS now because I feel like they have a size for every need. The largest rolling bag holds so much, and I love the Weekender for its separate compartments. Just stick with darker colors as the lighter ones scuff easily." 

• What to Consider: The Weekender bag doesn’t fit under airplane seats, so plan accordingly with an additional smaller bag.

The Small Carry On

The Large Check-In Roller

The Weekender

July

• Why You'll Love It: With sleek, minimalistic designs and great capacity, this Australian-based luggage brand started with a mission to re-invent traditional luggage, without the squeaky wheels and super high price tag. 

• Standout Feature: Sleek design with a protective hard shell and side buckles for extra security and style.

• Expert Opinion: It's a favorite among celebrities like Bethenny Frankel.

Courtesy of Bethenny Frankel on Instagram