Traveling looks a lot different today than it did before 2020, but that doesn't mean it's come to a full stop. If anything, people are more eager to get out and explore more than ever—especially after spending so much time (for the most part) grounded. If you're among the set that's preparing to travel, whether it's a flight, a road trip, or something else you have planned on your calendar, there's no doubt you'll want the best travel bags to help get you there and back.
So we found the best bags—from small to large—for every traveler. Maybe you need a backpack and a duffel bag for those weekend trips or quick business commitments. Or, if you have a longer trip to look forward to (or you need extra room to bring back any souvenirs), you're looking to upgrade from that old worn-out suitcase for some newer, larger luggage.
The best travel bags are the ones that keep everything—and we mean everything—organized, from essential travel documents like your passport and itinerary to your clothes. And, of course, you'll want to make sure they're roomy enough to fit everything you bring (heavy packers, we see you). Whether you opt for a budget-friendly style that'll suit your travel style or you go big with a luxury option, you can best bet these are an investment. After all, these bags will accommodate you for many miles and many years to come.
This isn’t your elementary-school rucksack. It has a dedicated space to fit a 15" laptop as well as a padded tablet pocket and two side-zip pockets (one of which has a water-resistant lining). And, the durability and functionality make the price seriously worth it. Plus, it can take the place of smaller, stow-away luggage or duffle bags. And if you're bringing a carry-on bag with you, it'll slip right onto the handle.
Without a doubt, this hardshell suitcase is small but mighty. The exterior shell, which is made using recycled polycarbonate, is tough—making it an option to get through nearly everything. On the inside, it's surprisingly roomy (even with the interior pockets). Finally, the 360-wheels let this bag move smoothly across the ground, so you won't have to worry about lugging your things through the airport. We suggest this carry-on case for weeklong trips or shorter ones.
Perhaps you don't need a hardshell suitcase. In which case, you'll want the best soft-sided option you can find. This under-$200, expandable option from Travelpro is not only affordable but has everything you could need in a suitcase, including two exterior compartments for extra organization and a side accessory pocket that can be used for your charger.
It's likely you've seen Away carry-on bags at the airport. They've become one of the most popular choices of today's offering—and with good reason. The hardshell Bigger Carry-On in particular has an ejectable USB charger, 360-degree wheels, and an interior compression system so you can get even more in there for your next getaway.
Easy access to your travel documents is an absolute must, no matter how you're traveling or where—especially when you're waiting for your flight at the gate. Luckily, this option features a front pocket that's almost as big as the face of the suitcase. And inside that, you'll find interior zippered pouches for smaller items like chargers, phones, passports, and more.
There's something about a leather bag that just feels, well, suave. This classic, full-grain leather weekender bag will hold everything you might possibly need for a weekend away. And, it's sure to gain a stylish patina the more you use it.
Front compartment includes interior pockets for smaller items
Drop-down opening allows for easy access
On the smaller side
Dimensions: 21.7 x 9.8 x 13.8"
Weight: 2.9 lbs
Capacity: 44 L
Exterior Material: Nylon
This duffel was made for short-term travel like a quick business trip or getaway. It has compact compartments to keep you organized and shoe pockets to keep your other possessions clean. The olive color also keeps your style on point.
Soft sides allow versatility for fitting into smaller spaces
Can get heavy when filled
No 360-degree wheels
Dimensions: 36 x 140 x 13 .75"
Capacity: 135 L
Exterior Material: 100% cotton rugged twill and bridle leather
This heavy-duty, super-capacity duffle is easy to wheel through airports, pull through any terrain, and cram into overhead storage. And because it’s made from water-resistant, abrasion-resistant fabric, it can stand all types of unruly weather. It’s perfect for frequent flyers.
If you think Yeti's coolers are good, wait until you try out the brand's luggage. The brand's Crossroads collection brings the same tough and rugged appeal of the Yeti brand you know and love while also featuring a thoughtful design, resulting in a spacious main compartment, an organizer pocket, and compression straps
Need to check your luggage on most trips you take? Then you want this lockable suitcase from Victorinox Swiss Army. It has a polycarbonate hard shell that protects your possessions from turbulence, thieves, and less-than-gentle airport baggage handlers.
Nothing feels quite as iconic as the vertical lines on a Rimowa suitcase. If you're looking to invest in some luggage, this brand (which created the first-ever polycarbonate suitcase) is it. Of course, it's more than just the look of the bag that merits the higher price tag. The quality here is evident in the detail: ball-bearing mounted polycarbonate wheels for smooth navigation, a telescopic handle, and height-adjustable dividers are only the beginning. Without a doubt, you'll be keeping this in your luggage collection for ages.
Nobody wants to be waiting at the baggage claim keeping an eye out for yet another standard-looking bag. Travel in style (and with a bag that stands out) by making your own custom suitcase with Roam, where you can choose the color for the front and back of the bag, the zipper, handles, and more. Beyond the customization, this bag has ball-bearing wheels for easy movement, compression boards, and a water-repellent zipper to top it off.
Finally, you'll want to keep everything in your bag organized. Whether it's dividing your clothes into specific categories, keeping your shoes separate from your more delicate items, or just sorting cables and electronics from everything else, you can't deny the benefits of proper packing cubes. This set is affordable and will suit everything from shirts and slacks to boxes and more.
Dale Arden ChongDale Arden Chong is the Gear & Commerce Editor at Men's Health, where she creates gear, tech, style and other shopping content for the site.
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