These are the best luggage sets, according to flight attendants and pilots

Nothing will ruin a vacation faster than a broken zipper or a cracked wheel. Luggage sets that are made to last and designed for sufficient organization will help make your trip go as smoothly as a turbulence-free plane ride. No one knows that better than pilots and flight attendants. So we asked them about their go-to bags to determine the best luggage sets for travelers. 

After hearing them wax poetic about laptop compartments and spinner wheels, we think the Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Set is the best luggage set overall. It offers a ton of packing capacity (even in the carry-on size) and is made with a hard, protective polypropylene material that’s lightweight enough to hoist into an overhead bin. 

That’s not the only luggage set worth investing in. We found a few more to suit your needs, from the most affordable set to roomy carry-ons you can build on. Here are all of our favorites. 

The best luggage sets for travel 

Whether you’re jetting across continents or embarking on a weekend getaway, your luggage should hold up to being tossed and dragged around. Hard-shell luggage should be made with durable materials like polycarbonate, while soft-shell bags benefit from nylon construction. Read on for all the details about our favorite luggage sets.

Best luggage set overall: Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Set 

Buy it now at Samsonite

Why we like it: Every pilot and flight attendant we interviewed recommends Samsonite bags in general due to the company’s reputation for durability. We think the Freeform 2-Piece Set has the best packing capacity. Even the carry-on size feels roomier than most—no need to worry about bringing home a couple souvenirs. 

Like other Samsonite bags, this one’s pretty tough too. The lightweight design and four spinner wheels make it easy to bob and weave through a crowded airport, while the polypropylene material holds up to the rigors of travel. We also appreciate this model’s 10-year warranty. 

Keep in mind: Like all hard shells, this suitcase set is prone to scuffing. The organizational features are fairly standard, limited to a single interior divider pocket and cross-ribbon straps. 

Product details: Shell: Hard | Checked bag size: 31.1 x 20.9 x 13.8 in. | Carry-on size: 23 x 15 x 10 in. | Warranty: 10 years 

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Best hard shell luggage set: Samsonite Outline Pro Global Carry-On Spinner 

Buy it now at Samsonite

Why we like it: The best luggage sets should be able to take a beating. Airline pilot Duke Armitage says the Samsonite Aeris Comfort Spinner is one of the most durable he’s used. “For nearly a decade, this suitcase has survived horrible falls and rough handling,” he says. “Yet it only has a few scratches to show for it.” The Comfort Spinner isn’t available for purchase in the United States, but we think the Samsonite Outline Pro Global Carry-On Spinner’s polypropylene shell is just as tough.  

This bag has a built-in interior organization system that includes two standard divider pockets, compression straps, and multiple zippered pouches to secure easy-to-lose items like jewelry and watches.  

We also love that the product listing includes an airline size allowance guide so you can make sure the carry-on you’re buying complies with your airline’s size rules. Though Armitage isn’t a big fan of fancy features, we think the included USB port and internal battery pocket is a helpful addition for unexpected tech emergencies.  

Keep in mind: This bag doesn’t come as part of a set, but it comes in multiple sizes so you can build your own set to suit your travel needs. 

Product details: Shell: Hard | Carry-on size: 22 x 14 x 9 in. | Warranty: 10 years 

Best affordable luggage set: Amazon Basics 3-Piece Luggage Set 

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Why we like it: For well under $200, you get a ton of features with this Amazon Basics luggage set. The interior divider in each of the three suitcases has one hidden zipper pocket and two mesh pockets for keeping your smaller items organized. With that many options, you’ll never have to dig through your clothes to find that elusive phone charger. 

Despite its budget-friendly price, this set comes with many features typically found in more expensive sets, such as spinner wheels, a telescoping handle, and expandable capacity. If you don’t need three suitcases, you can get the two-set (carry-on and checked) or purchase just one bag. 

Keep in mind: Like many lower-priced suitcases, this set’s hard shell is made out of ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), a thermoplastic material that isn’t as strong, flexible, or impact-resistant as polycarbonate. While it’s still a good choice, you’ll likely have to replace these bags sooner than you would with a higher-priced set. 

Product details: Shell: Hard | Large checked bag size: 20.7 x 12.6 x 30.7 in. | Medium checked bag size: 17.8 x 11.3 x 26.8 in. | Carry-on size: 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 in. Warranty: None 

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Best three-piece luggage set: TravelPro Maxlite 5 Floating On Air Luggage Set 

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Why we like it: Soft-shell luggage gets a bad rap for being flimsy, but the Maxlite 5 Floating On Air set is far from it. This lightweight luggage is made with polyester fabric coated with “DuraGuard,” designed to resist water, abrasions, and stains, according to the manufacturer. The set also comes with Travelpro’s lifetime warranty. 

These bags come with features American Airlines pilot Captain Beth Powell finds especially useful: Four wheels and thoughtful compartments. The zippered, full-length interior lid is big enough to store a small laptop, while the side pocket fits phone chargers and other tech gear. We also like that these bags unzip to give you two additional inches of capacity. 

Keep in mind: Even with a special coating, Armitage says that soft-shell bags tend to show more wear and tear than hard-shell suitcases. 

Product details: Shell: Soft | Large checked bag size: 31 x 21 x 13 in. | Medium checked bag size: 27 x 18.5 x 11.5 in. | Carry-on size: 23 x 15 x 9 in. Warranty: Lifetime 

Best two-piece luggage set: Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 

Buy it now on Amazon

Why we like it: This 100-percent polycarbonate set is a backpack and suitcase duo ideal for short trips and efficient packers. It’s designed with smart details, such as removable storage pouches and a trolley sleeve for attaching the backpack to the suitcase, when you want to give your shoulders a break. 

Inside, there are two zippered compartments to separate clothes from toiletries and essentials. Plus, each of those compartments comes with a zippered pocket for smaller items. The backpack has thoughtful design details including multiple interior pouches, a laptop sleeve, and a hidden exterior back pocket for safely storing your passport and wallet. 

Keep in mind: This set may be great for traveling light, but the suitcase is a bit heavy. 

Product details: Shell: Hard | Checked bag size: 30 x 20.8 x 12.8 in. | Carry-on size: 16.3 x 12.5 x 7 in. | Warranty: 10 years 

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Best carry-on luggage: Travelpro Crew Classic Carry-On Rollaboard 

Buy it now at TravelPro

Why we like it: Just because pilots are skilled in the art of efficient packing doesn’t mean they don’t appreciate extra suitcase space. Powell’s go-to spacious bag is the Travelpro FlightCrew5 22-inch Expandable Rollaboard, but we like the brand’s Crew Classic Carry-On Rollaboard. Its strategically placed pockets (including a removable compression packing organizer and a water-resistant storage pouch) and two-inch expansion make it feel more like a full-size suitcase than a carry-on. 

In addition to this carry-on’s organizational perks, it’s built with high-density, “DuraGuard”-coated fabric made to withstand the rigors of frequent travel, according to the company. The Powerscope handle helps provide extra stability against rough handling, but the company has a three-year warranty that Powell says allows for easy replacement of damaged parts. The included zipper repair kit is a thoughtful bonus for airport emergencies too. 

Keep in mind: Although this bag’s tapered expansion helps keep it from tipping, it’s still a rollerbag that you have to pull behind you. This bag doesn’t come in a set, but there are several other sizes in the Crew Classic collection to build what you need.  

Product details: Shell: Soft | Carry-on size: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 in. Warranty: 3 years for commercial use 

Best splurge luggage set: July Checked Trunk Set 

Buy it now at July

Why we like it: If you’re going to invest in a luxury luggage set, make sure it’s as functional as it is stylish, like July’s Checked Trunk set. Instead of zippers, these suitcases open via latches. Inside, you’ll find a full-length divider, two straps, and six zippered pockets, plus a hidden, laundry pocket that separates and compresses dirty clothes. 

But you may not even need that compression. These bags have room to spare thanks to an “80-20” split case design, where one half is deeper. That makes it easier to pack large items like boots and jackets. We also love the lifetime warranty and ability to personalize each set with text. 

Keep in mind: At 13.2 and 8.4 pounds, these hard-shell cases are heavier than most, which could tip the scale toward overweight luggage fees. 

Product details: Shell: Hard | Checked bag size: 28.3 x 16.5 x 14.5 in. | Carry-on size: 21.7 x 15 x 8.7 in. | Warranty: Lifetime 

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How we chose the best luggage sets for travel 

A high-quality suitcase is an investment—and one that will only pay off if it’s durable, functional, and suits your travel needs. When we set out to find the best luggage sets for travelers, we wanted to make sure they met specific criteria. In addition to interviewing airline staff for their guidance and tapping into our own experience, we considered the following: 

• Set size: We included options to meet a range of travel needs, from a compact carry-on to a larger checked bag and possibly a backpack. 

• Material: Whether it’s a hard or soft shell, suitcases should be made from durable materials like polypropylene or nylon that can withstand the wear and tear of travel. 

• Warranty: The majority of our picks come with a minimum three-year warranty. The Amazon Basics 3-Piece Luggage Set is the exception. 

• Value: We included budget-friendly options, but this list also features sets that we think are worth the splurge due to special features and durability. 

• Features: Innovation doesn’t always equal practicality, so we opted for sets designed with useful attributes most travelers can appreciate, like ample storage and organization. 

• Third-party reviews: We took into account feedback and ratings from real customers to get a more comprehensive understanding of each set’s performance. 

Tips for buying a luggage set 

Don’t ignore the wheels 

We know they’re probably the last thing on your mind when shopping for a luggage set, but poorly constructed wheels can make airport navigation a nightmare. Powell says a four-wheel design is “a must” for every kind of bag. Armitage can vouch for how easy spinner wheels make getting around the airport—especially in crowded areas or tight spaces. Look for brands with warranties that include part replacements—well-made wheels can still break with heavy use. 

Consider which features are useful to you 

Not everyone needs a laptop sleeve or a laundry pocket, so make sure to choose a set with features that benefit your travel needs. For example, if you often pack bulky items like boots or jackets, opt for a set with a deep capacity like the July Checked Trunk. If staying organized is important, look for sets with plenty of pockets and dividers like the Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0. 

Take advantage of warranties 

Many of the sets on our list offer lifetime or multiyear warranties that cover things like manufacturing defects or damaged parts. It’s good practice to take care of luggage but knowing that a part can be replaced adds peace of mind and value to a purchase. Read through the details and restrictions for each warranty plan before making your final decision. 

Frequently asked questions 

Is hard shell luggage better than soft? 

Hard-shell luggage isn’t necessarily better than a soft-shell. Both can be durable and long-lasting if they’re made with high-quality materials like polypropylene or nylon. 

What kind of luggage is best for international travel? 

Luggage sets with at least one large checked bag and a carry-on are ideal for international travel, as you’ll likely need more storage space. While soft-shell bags can be treated with a coating that makes them water-resistant, hard-shell bags may be better for protecting your things from wet weather. 

How long do luggage sets last? 

It depends on the materials, construction, travel frequency, and maintenance. The most common warranty for luggage sets is 10 years.