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What is the best luggage for international travel in 2022? This is a question that many travelers ask, as the type of luggage you bring with you can make a big difference in your overall experience. Not to mention, you need something that will be durable enough to withstand the journey, yet lightweight and easy to carry around. However, there are many options available, and it can be tricky know ing which one is best for your needs. That’s why we’ve conducted thorough research and included the best luggage on the market based on its weight, size, usability, durability and the specific needs of the traveler.
We’ll discuss everything from suitcases to backpacks and duffel bags, so you can choose the perfect luggage for your travels. So whether you are planning a trip abroad or just need to update your travel gear, read on for some helpful tips and advice! So, without further ado, let’s get started.
Which luggage is best for international travel?In my opinion, the best luggage for international travel are the Travelpro Maxlite Expandable Suitcase, the Tortuga Outbreaker pack, and the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel. These bags are popular among international travelers for their lightweight, water-resistant, and durable qualities. With these qualities, you can rest assured that these bags won’t eat into your baggage weight allowance before you start packing, they will keep your things dry if you get caught in a drizzle, and they won’t rip or tear easily in the middle of your travel.
Having said that, there are other options of suitcases and bags that are equally well suited for international travel. This is because the best luggage for international travel depends on several factors such as where you’re going, how long you’ll be gone, and what kind of traveler you are. Read on to see these alternatives and a detailed account of why we have shortlisted them!
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Monos Best Luggage for International Travel 2022Here is a preview of the top 15 best luggage for international travel:
Best overall luggage for international travel- Travelpro Maxlite 5 Expandable LuggageCredit: travelpro.com The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner suitcase is my personal recommendation of the best suitcase on this list and is also voted as the best international suitcase overall by a number of product review guides online. This suitcase is made from polyester with a Duraguard coating which means that it has an extra water repellent and stain-resistant coating. When travelling internationally, you want to ensure that your case is kept in as good condition as possible, as you don’t want to it to become dented, broken or wet while you’re travelling far from home. Furthermore, the Travelpro Maxlite case is a good, sturdy size and it can even be expanded up to another 5cm so you can fit even more inside your case. This is another great feature suited to international travel, especially if you’re prone to bringing lots of souvenirs back from the holiday with you! Credit: travelpro.com What we also love While the style and color of a suitcase have no significant impact on its performance, it is nice to know that the Travelpro Maxlite performs well and looks good! What’s not great The only slight downside that I’ve heard about this luggage is that its handle can sometimes be a little temperamental and get stuck when trying to slide it back into place. However, if this issue does occur with any suitcase you purchase, check out the section at the bottom of this guide on how to look after your luggage and make it last longer! Pros
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Best backpack for international travel- Tortuga Outbreaker 35L luggageCredit: tortugabackpacks.com If you’re looking for the best backpack to take on your next international adventure, the Outbreaker from Tortuga comes highly recommended. For one, it is made by experienced travelers who have in turn used their experiences and skills to create a practical and versatile backpack for travelers. What’s more? This bad boy is carry-on compliant. Measuring 20 x 13 x 8 inches, and weighing just 4.5 lb, the Outbreaker is sized for international carry-on and is sure to fit in the overhead bin of most airlines. Also, the Tortuga Outbreaker 35L carries a lot—but not too much. To avoid excess baggage fees, most airlines limit carry-on bags to 45 liters or less. The Outbreaker 35L meets this requirement with ease, but it also has enough space to store everything you need for a long trip. With 35 liters of space, this bag can hold enough clothes for a five-day trip, plus all of your other essentials like toiletries, electronics, and travel documents. The Outbreaker is comfortable to wear. Thanks to the padded shoulder straps and removable hip belt, carrying a heavy load doesn’t have to be a pain. Additionally, the included load lifters and sternum strap help distribute the weight evenly, making it more comfortable to carry for extended periods. Whether you’re exploring a new city on foot or taking a long bus ride to your next destination, the bag will help you get there with ease. Additionally, the Outbreaker keeps your things organized, so you can find what you need when you need it. The last thing you want when you’re trying to catch a flight is to be fumbling around in your bag for your passport or boarding pass. With the Outbreaker’s multiple compartments and pockets, everything has its place, including a separate section for your laptop so you can quickly and easily find what you need. Plus, the main compartment opens like a suitcase—so packing and unpacking is a breeze. Credit: tortugabackpacks.com What we also love Another feature I appreciate is that it’s made with high-quality materials. The Outbreaker is made with durable sailcloth fabric that can withstand even the roughest treatment—so it will keep all your belongings safe no matter where your travels take you. And because it’s made with water-resistant fabric, you don’t have to worry about your belongings getting wet if you get caught in a rainstorm. The lockable zippers also give you more confidence when traveling as it’d be much harder for others to get into your backpack without permission. What’s not great If I have to mention the disadvantage of this bag, it has to be the cost. The Outbreaker backpack is relatively expensive compared to other options on the market. Furthermore, this bag is not expandable. So if you need more storage, I suggest you go for the Outbreaker 45L. Overall, the Tortuga Outbreaker backpack is the best backpack for international travel and comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can rest assured knowing that your investment is protected. Pros
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Best hardside luggage for international travel- Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Luggage
For one of the best pieces of luggage for international travel that combines a lightweight design with sturdy and durable materials, then look no further than the Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Spinner. The exterior of this suitcase is made from polycarbonate materials. This means that it’s scratch-resistant thanks to the micro-diamond texture of the polycarbonate. As you can imagine, this is a great feature for international travel when the luggage is likely to be thrown around at the airport quite a bit. You can rest assured that your bag will be kept safe. When traveling internationally, you want to make sure that your suitcase will be safe when in transportation to and from the airport. Plus while it’s circulating around the different systems inside the airport. Thanks to the Samsonite Omni’s TSA lockon the side, you can rest assured that your bag will be kept safe and secure for the whole journey. A TSA lock is a Transportation Security Administration lock which means that it can only be opened by TSA agents at U.S. airports. It’s not easy to break into so if your case gets stolen, so no one else will be able to gain access to it. What we also love I also enjoy the fact that this case comes in a choice of 11 different colors and shades, which means you can pick one out that suits you and that you’ll easily recognize as it comes around the luggage conveyor belt at the airport! Plus the bag is affordable. What’s not great One slightly negative aspect that I’ve heard about this suitcase is that the handle can sometimes be a little flimsy when trying to pull it up or push it down. One way to prevent this from happening is to be as gentle as you can when lifting the handle up or down. Also, remember to never lift the suitcase by the top handle; always use the side one as this is much stronger as it’s attached to the shell of the case as it helps to spread the weight more evenly when lifting it! Pros
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Best softside luggage for international travel- Samsonite Solyte DLX Expandable LuggageCredit: shop.samsonite.com If you’re looking for a soft-side suitcase that ticks all the boxes, go with the Samsonite Solyte DLX. For one, this is one of the lightest pieces of soft side luggage on the market, making it ideal for international travel. It’s made with a water-resistant polyester fabric that is both strong and lightweight, so you don’t have to worry about it being too heavy to carry or easily damaged. The Samsonite Solyte DLX is also built to last, with a reinforced frame and robust zippers. Plus, it’s backed by Samsonite’s reputation for quality and durability, so you can rest assured that your belongings will be safe and sound no matter where your travels take you. It also has a lot of compartments, which come in handy when you’re trying to organize everything you need for your trip. There’s a place for your clothes, your toiletries, and anything else you might need while on the go. The bag also has a WetPak pocket that’s perfect for holding liquids without worrying about leaks or spills. And if you happen to overpack, no worries! The suitcase expands up to 2 inches, giving you extra space for souvenirs or last-minute items. Credit: shop.samsonite.com What we also love It has 4 smooth rolling wheels for easy maneuverability, push-button locking telescopic handle, and an external USB port so you can charge your phone or tablet on the go. What’s not great I was however disappointed to see that it does not have a dedicated laptop compartment. This could be a problem if you are looking for a bag that will protect your laptop from damage. I was also surprised to see that the TSA-friendly lock is not included in the purchase price. Overall, if you’re looking for the best soft-sided luggage for international travel, look no further than the Samsonite Solyte DLX. Its lightweight design, expandable storage, and durable construction make it the perfect choice for your next trip abroad. Pros
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Best luggage for business travel- Monos Carry-On ProCredit: monos.com The Monos Carry-On Pro is the perfect suitcase for business travelers. It comes with a built-in front compartment that has three interior pockets and zippered pouches that are perfect for storing 15” laptops, tablets, important documents, phones, batteries, cables, passports, sunglasses, or other small items. This allows you to have all of your tech accessories in one place, and within easy reach, especially during security or check-ins requiring travel documents. As a result, you can travel knowing that all of your important belongings are safe with you. What’s more? This luggage comes with some organizational features you’ll love. There is a built-in compression pad, an anti-microbial laundry bag, and two shoe bags. You can tuck your shoes away at the zipped panel while the compression straps will keep your clothes compact and snug so nothing falls out! The Monos Carry-on Pro is also very durable luggage. The water-resistant German Makrolon polycarbonate shell used in the construction of the suitcase is top-quality and durable. This means that during your trip, your items won’t be soaked through during rainfall, and the bag is also sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of travel. The adjustable telescopic handle and whisper-quiet wheels make it easy to maneuver the suitcase around airports and other busy areas. This was one feature about this bag that Elle of Travelswithelle loved. According to her, rolling anywhere is such a bliss, even on bumpy sidewalks, dirt pathways, and even carpeted hallways! Credit: monos.com What we also love Another reason why I think the Carry-on Pro is great for international business travel is that it is sleek and modern. Its timeless and minimalist aesthetic means it would blend with any outfit you wear while looking good enough to go on your Instagram feed. And the vegan leather details add a touch of luxury. Also, this bag comes with a lifetime warranty. Plus, Monos offer a 100-day trial to ensure your new suitcase is the right travel companion for you. This means that when you purchase this suitcase, you can try it out for up to 100 days and if you don’t like it, you can return it. What’s not great So, what are the drawbacks of the Monos Carry-On Pro? Based on the reviews on their website and blog posts, I found that the major gripe customers have is that it can be hard to close the exterior laptop case if you have packed too many things into the main compartment. To avoid this, I suggest you do not overstuff the main compartment or the tech compartment so that the bag can zip up easily. Another common complaint has to do with scuff marks on the exterior of the suitcase after a few uses. However, some users like Hannah Freedman of Insider, found that using erasers helps in removing the marks. All in all, if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line carry-on suitcase that will make your next international trip a breeze, the Monos Carry-On Pro is worth considering. Pros
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Best luxury luggage for international travel- Briggs and Riley Baseline Spinner Luggage
While I mentioned above that style isn’t a contributing factor when it comes to the quality of luggage, there are some brands that perform well in both style and practicality. One of those brands is Briggs and Riley, and their Baseline Spinner suitcase is a particularly good winner when it comes to the most luxurious luggage. Despite being the most expensive luggage on this list by quite some distance, it certainly packs a punch when it comes to its features. The Baseline Spinner has a CX expansion system, which means that you can expand the suitcase by up to 34%. This type of technology is just one of the features that make the Briggs and Riley Baseline Spinner suitcase stand out from its competitors. Credit: briggs-riley.com What we also love The case is made from ballistic nylon fabric on the outside, which protects and resists stains, water, and general wear and tear. For a suitcase as expensive as this one, you want all the protection you can get against it becoming damaged! The Baseline Spinner case is also fitted with a hybrid fiberglass frame which provides additional support for durability and flexibility. This means you can rest assured that it’s not going to become flimsy or dented, just because you’ve packed a little too much in your case! What’s not great However, if you’re looking to invest in one of the best items of luggage for international travel, then this suitcase is definitely a strong contender and worth the money in my opinion. Pros
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Best luggage for international travel under $100- AmazonBasics 21-inch Hardside SpinnerCredit: amazon.com The Amazon Basics 21-inch Suitcase is easily one of the best luggage for international travel especially if you are after an affordable option. Below, I will break down the reasons why I believe this suitcase is ideal for international travel. First and foremost, the design of this suitcase is perfect for international travel because it is a durable hard-side spinner. This means that it will be able to protect your belongings from being crushed when you are on long flights or traveling by bus/train. Although not the highest quality bag on the market, many buyers and reviewers like Carissa Rawson of ThePointsGuy have successfully taken the Amazon Basic case up to 10 trips, and it’s still working well. And with 4.6-star ratings and over 30,000 reviews on Amazon, you can trust this bag to last whether you’re a frequent traveler or only take the occasional trip. Additionally, the four double-spinning wheels make this suitcase extremely easy to maneuver, even when it is fully packed. There’s even an extendable handle that locks into place when not needed. Credit: amazon.com What we also love I also appreciate that this suitcase is highly organized. Inside the suitcase, you’ll find a fully lined interior with dividers and three zippered pockets that make it easy to separate and arrange your clothes, toiletries, and souvenirs to taste. Even if you tend to overpack, this suitcase has got you covered. You can expand the luggage capacity up to 15% if needed. One of the best things about the Amazon Basics 21-inch Hardside Spinner Suitcase is its price. Being priced under $100, it’s one of the most affordable and best luggage for international travel on the market. One of my favourite things about this suitcase is that it comes in a few different colors (black, navy blue, blue and orange) so you can choose the one that best fits your personal style. What’s not great So what are the downsides? Well, there is no lock on the Amazon Basic case. While this might not be a problem for the carry-on, it’s not safe for the checked bag, especially if you travel by plane often. All in all, the Amazon Basics 21-inch Hardside Spinner Suitcase is a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable yet high-quality luggage option for your next international trip. Pros
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Most durable luggage for international travel- Away The Large: Aluminum EditionCredit: Awaytravel.com The Away Large: Aluminium Edition is the best option if you are a frequent international traveler who needs a relatively affordable suitcase that will protect your stuff while also lasting for many trips. With The Away Large Aluminium, you are effectively buying a suitcase that comes with strong durability which is usually associated with high-end brands like Tumiand Rimowafor about half the price. The aluminum hard shell makes this case nearly indestructible while still maintaining all the sleekness you expect from a reputable brand like Away! The luggage looks fantastic and has plenty of features to make your trip easier. The 360° spinner wheels are a lifesaver because they roll smoothly from airports to train platforms and cobblestoned streets. And the slow-release leather handle ensures you can easily lift your suitcase into a car without having to worry about blisters or pains. Plus, the TSA-approved combination lock (and no zippers) keeps your belongings safe and secure. You’ll also love that it comes with a few extras like a leather luggage tag, an interior compression system, and a clip-in pocketed panel that make packing a joy. It even comes with a water-resistant laundry bag that’s perfect for storing your wet clothes, or dirty items. Credit: awaytravel.com What we also love What I particularly love about this suitcase is that it’s simple, yet incredibly sleek. Of course, luggage is more about practicality than style, but it’s still good to have a piece of luggage that looks good and performs well, which is why I consider it one of the best luggage for international travel in 2022. What’s not great With the Away Aluminium luggage, you should expect scratches and dents after many trips. However, compared to the rips and cracks that can compromise the integrity of some fabric softside and polycarbonate hardshell luggage, this should not be a deal breaker if you are not too bothered by the scruffy aesthetics that a few scratches and dents leave. Also, while the locks, handles, and wheels are of a good standard, they lack the finesse in fit and finishing that you will see in the premium bands such as Rimowa and Tumi. But then again, you’d have to pay double the price for those suitcases. Pros
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Best duffel bag for international travel- YETI Crossroads Duffel Bag
When you’re packing for a long weekend away or heading out on a road trip, you need a dependable duffel bag that can withstand all of your adventures. The last thing you want is for your bag to fall apart in the middle of your travels. Enters the YETI Crossroads Duffel Bag 60L. As you know, YETI’s name is synonymous with toughness, and this Crossroads duffel is no exception. This bag is made with water-resistant, abrasion-resistant TuffSkin nylon and features a TPU-coated hardshell bottom to help protect your belongings from the wet ground or rough surfaces. Even better, it has a structured wall foam that allows the bag to keep its shape, rather than collapsing in on itself. Its sturdy construction and weatherproof materials mean that it can withstand any type of terrain or weather conditions. This is why I believe it is the best luggage for international travel because it is perfect for any travel or outdoor situation you find yourself in. Another great feature of this bag is its interior organization. The bag has two divider panels that separate the bag into three sections, so you can arrange the content of your bag to your heart’s content. But what if you’re not a fan of dividers? Well, you can fold away the dividers to make way for a large top opening with ample room that makes it easy to pack and unpack while the several smaller pockets are perfect for storing all your small essentials. Plus, it has 60L of storage capacity to store everything you need for your trip. So much so that Kai Burkhardt of CNN Underscored says the Crossroad can fit travel gear up to 5-7 days of travel. Credit: yeti.com What we also love I like that this bag features two carrying styles. So when you’re not using it as a duffel, you can easily carry it on the shoulder thanks to the detachable shoulder strap. Whether you’re flying cross-country or hiking through the backcountry, the YETI Crossroads won’t let you down. What’s not great However, I should note that a few users on Amazon and on Yeti’s website expected the bag to be bigger, as it’s marketed as a 60L bag. I should also inform you that this bag is not a carry-on complaint, you may have to check it for air travel. Pros
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Best stylish luggage for international travel- LEVEL8 Textured 24” LuggageCredit: level8cases.com The LEVEL8 Matte Check-in 24” luggage is a great choice for anyone looking for a stylish and reliable piece of luggage. The hard shell is made from lightweight and durable Makrolon polycarbonate, and the bag is enhanced with waterproof material to keep your belongings dry. This piece of luggage has everything you need to make travel easy and convenient. The integrated spinner wheels and telescopic handle make it easy to maneuver the bag through the airport. For security, the TSA-approved combination lock will keep your belongings safe. This 24” checked luggage has a 68L capacity, with a dimension of 17.5” x 10.4” x 26” and a weight of 9.63 lbs, making it perfect for business travel or extended trips.
What we also love For organization, the interior is fully lined, with a handy divider for clothes and two zipper pockets for small items. Another thing to love about this luggage is its sleek, minimal and simple design. Plus, there are beautiful color designs to choose from. What’s not great While this bag is a catch, there are minor drawbacks worth considering before making your purchase. The first is that some customers have complained that the luggage is likely to get scuffed, scratched, or dented with time. Additionally, the LEVEL8 luggage is quite heavy and is not expandable. Pros
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