With so many luggage styles and builds in the market, it might be challenging to know where to begin. Don't worry, we're here to help! In this article, we've got a buying guide to show you the points to consider when purchasing luggage. We've also rounded up the best brands for every style and budget, like Samsonite, Tumi, American Tourister, and more!
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Choosing between hardside or softside luggage depends on your preference and packing style. Both types have pros and cons, so you should choose one that suits your needs.
This type of luggage is advantageous because it can protect the contents inside; thus, it's suitable for fragile items. It is also more difficult to break open, so you do not have to worry if you have to check it in. Although it may be prone to scratches, this luggage is easy to clean, as you only need to wipe it with a microfiber cloth to get rid of dirt.
It is also more lightweight, so you can put more items in your carry-on or checked luggage without going over the weight limit. However, since it is made of fabric, it is more prone to wear and tear. Thus, you need to look for one that is made of durable fabric like nylon and make sure that it is waterproof.
For short trips, consider getting the 18"-22" luggage. This size is considered a carry-on, so you can just place it in the overhead bin. Keep in mind, though, that even if your luggage is within the allowable carry-on size, you may have a problem if you go over the weight limit. Always check if your luggage weighs within the allowable limit for a smooth check-in process.
If you want a bit more space, you can get the 25"-27" or medium-sized luggage. However, it exceeds the size limit for carry-on, so you'll have to check in your luggage. For longer trips, on the other hand, 28"-32" or large-sized luggage is ideal because it has plenty of room. This is also a practical option if you and your trip buddies want to share a suitcase to save on baggage fees.
On the other hand, zipperless luggage offers more security. With this type, the luggage is sealed tight via two combination locks instead of zippers. Because of its frame case, it won't be opened easily. The lightweight aluminum-alloy frames are also more secure and highly resistant to impact. It may be more expensive than luggage with zippers, but it is worth the higher price tag.
Luggage can either have 2 wheels or 4 wheels, and depending on what you’re using your luggage for, one might be better than the other. Check the pros and cons of each type, so you can decide which one is for you.
A two-wheeled suitcase only rolls forward and backward, so it is easy to maneuver even on uneven surfaces. It's also lighter, and the wheels tend to break less because they are recessed into the case.
If you don't plan on bringing a lot of things with you, then two-wheeled luggage would be sufficient. However, it can tip forward if it's not balanced. You can also only drag it behind you, which may strain your wrists and shoulders.
Also, the four wheels rotate 360 degrees, so it's easy to turn the luggage in any direction. It can also stand upright, so you do not need to support it to prevent it from tipping forward. However, it can be difficult to control as it could roll away from you if you don't hold it.
Some luggage also have extra features like telescopic handles, TSA-approved locks, multiple compartments, which make them more convenient to use. A few models are also expandable, perfect for your souvenirs!
You need to look for a handle that is comfortable to hold and fits inside your hand. We suggest getting one that's telescopic so that it's sturdy and easily retractable. Also, select a handle that can be adjusted according to your height, so you won't have problems pulling or pushing your luggage.
For better security and for your peace of mind, choose a bag with a TSA-approved lock. You can purchase a lock separately, but there are some types of luggage with a built-in lock, which is more convenient. However, remember not to put your valuables inside your checked baggage just to make sure they do not get lost.
To keep your things more organized, look for luggage that has zippered compartments and metal clamps. This way, you can have an easier time finding your outfit and shoes during your trip. You can also use these compartments to separate your toiletries from your clothes, documents, and other items to prevent them from getting wet.
Also, if you're planning to travel with your laptop or tablet, look for luggage that has a gadget compartment to keep it secure. You don't want to be carrying around a heavy bag on your shoulders for the whole trip! This feature also offers extra protection for your electronic device, since it's well-cushioned inside the luggage.
Take note, though, that some expandable luggage might not fit in the overhead bin, and you will have to pay the extra baggage fee to check it in. Nonetheless, if you can't help but buy souvenirs from the places you visit, this is a good feature to have in your luggage.
This luggage has earned the prestigious German Red Dot Design Award, and for a good reason. With a lightweight polycarbonate shell and smooth 360-degree Peroma mute wheels, this luggage is a joy to handle. It is also built with round rotatable TSA-approved pebble locks, so it's more convenient and safer to use compared to zippered luggage.
Aside from that, it also has a bento storage system to keep your things organized, as well as a set of dividers that you can rearrange. The three-level telescopic handle is made of aluminum alloy, which makes it sturdy. Plus, it's also waterproof, so your things are protected inside. Given all these features, it's no wonder this luggage has earned the top spot on our list!
Indeed, this luggage's sleek exterior will get heads turning! With an anodized aluminum casing, the Samsonite Xylem 2.0 nails the futuristic yet classy look at once. This is perfect as a carry-on suitcase and can definitely stand the wear and tear of frequent traveling.
Inside the suitcase, you'll find zippered compartments and a luggage divider for optimum organization. It's pretty smooth to handle as well, thanks to the four 360-degree wheels and a side handle for easy carrying. If you need a suitcase that looks stylish and is roomy inside, you can't go wrong with this one!
Designed for long trips, this luggage from Tumi has an eye-catching embossed shell made of aluminum and a TSA-approved lock to keep your belongings secure. It also has carry handles on the top and the side, so you can lift it easily. The trolley handle is also retractable with the push of a button to adjust to your desired height.
Instead of zippers, it uses two clamps for closure. Inside, there's an interior packing divider and several clamps for organizing your clothes and accessories. And thanks to its 360-degree wheels, users love how light and easy it is to maneuver even with one hand. They also rave about its durability across multiple flights. In fact, they say it's worth the expensive price!
The Oregon NXT spinner is an updated version of American Tourist's bestselling Oregon luggage. The update revamps the plain design of the old model into a stylish and subtle two-tone print and premium double-dotted fabric. It also ramps up security with a Duosaf™ double zipper and a recessed TSA lock.
This suitcase has everything the frequent business traveler needs. There's a soft padded compartment for your laptop and tablet, plus a mesh pocket for your IT accessories. You also get many organizational solutions to keep your business outfits neat, such as a packing organizer, a garment kit, a toiletry pouch, and even a shoe bag!
If you are looking for luggage that is within your budget, you can go with this one from Kamiliant. Aside from the lovely purple color, this suitcase offers a really great deal with its many features. It's made of 100% polyester with a nylon inner lining for durability and has a big front pocket for quick access to small items.
Not only that, it also has a TSA 3-dial combination lock and a SafePlux anti-theft zipper to keep your things safe. It also offers more storage with a 4-way expander feature. The multi-stop handle can be adjusted as well, and the wheels turn 360 degrees for ease of use. Clearly, the Kojo Spinner has all the essential features you need without breaking the bank!
Trust Italian brand Echolac to get you to your destination with all your belongings intact. This brand enjoys a stellar reputation for being durable and reliable. The textured polycarbonate casing has an anti-scratch design and a sturdy aluminum alloy trolley system to withstand the wear and tear of frequent traveling.
It's an absolute delight to maneuver, too, thanks to its silent and smooth Hinomoto spinner wheels. Instead of zippers, it uses a TSA combination lock to keep it closed. Meanwhile, the interior is fully and luxuriously lined and comes with lots of organization pockets and dividers. Users love how roomy it is and how well it has held up through multiple flights.
This 29-inch luggage can fit everything you need to bring on long vacations! It's made of sturdy molded polycarbonate and comes with top and side carrying handles. It also has an additional multi-stage trolley handle that you can adjust according to your height. The multi-directional wheels also make it easy to push in any direction.
Moreover, it offers great organizational solutions with a zippered mesh compartment and garment cross straps to keep your things secure inside. The TSA-approved combination zipper lock offers superb security, too. And according to satisfied users, it's surprisingly lightweight for the amount of room it offers!
Say goodbye to confusion and long waiting times at the baggage claim area with this suitcase from American Tourister. With its bright orange color, you can't help but spot this easily, even from a distance. And with its grooved polypropylene shell, it's scratch-resistant, too!
Despite its large size, it's super easy to maneuver, thanks to its 4 twin wheels that allow 360-degree movement. The TSA-approved lock is also recessed into the closure to minimize the risk of damage from impact. Aside from that, it has packing straps and a multi-pocket divider inside to keep your things organized.
Sometimes, luggage can be quite heavy, which means you can't pack a lot of things in it without risking paying a fee. Thankfully, this one is very lightweight, even with the medium size. It is also made of aircraft-grade high tensile fabric, so it won't tear easily. Meanwhile, the frame is made of fiberglass with a wide aluminum locking handle for extra durability.
Moreover, it is water-resistant, so rest assured your things won't get wet. The 360-degree rolling wheels also make it easy to turn it in any direction. And although it is not expandable, you can still maximize the space inside, thanks to its flat packing base. In fact, users love how small and slim it looks on the outside but surprisingly spacious inside.
When it comes to luggage, it can be tricky to find one that's affordable and offers great value. But that's exactly what this G. Melody softsided suitcase is all about. For just a little over Php 1000, you get a feature-packed suitcase that won't break the bank. To start with, this one has multiple compartments for better organization.
Users especially love how they have room for storage on the exterior for items that they want quick access to. It also has a combination lock for added security. There are only two wheels, though, but each wheel has a special triple-wheel design, so it's still easy to maneuver. It also has a stopper at the bottom to prevent tippling over.
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
In general, each passenger can bring one carry-on luggage. As for checked luggage, it's best to check with your airline since this may depend on your destination as well as the travel class you're in.
For high-touch areas such as the handles and wheels, use disinfecting wipes to sanitize them. Next, use a vacuum to clean the inside of the luggage. As for the exterior of the luggage, mix equal parts of dish soap and water and apply the solution to the surface. Then, use a damp cloth to wipe it. Remember to let it dry and avoid using abrasive cleaning solutions on your luggage.
In most cases, luggage wheels can be replaced. You can either bring it to the brand's repair center or to third-party repair centers. There are also tutorials on YouTube in case you want to repair the luggage wheels yourself.
When most of the things you need are already prepared, try to include these items to make your trip more comfortable. Take a look at these neck pillows, passport cases, and reusable masks that might be useful for your upcoming vacation!
Re-editors: Aprille Jarcia, R. Umlas
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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