The Only Luxury Luggage Our Editors Actually Recommend Spending On
Some travel expenses are easy to justify. A nonstop flight over a connection. A hotel that puts you in the middle of the action. An upgrade on a red-eye. And, in our opinion, a suitcase that’s built to last through years of abuse.
Luxury luggage isn’t just about brand cachet. Yes, names like Louis Vuitton and Rimowa carry status, but the best pieces earn their price tags through durability, thoughtful design, and warranties that actually mean something. After countless trips across continents and decades of testing, our editors have narrowed down which premium bags are genuinely worth the investment.
For carry-ons, Tumi’s 19-Degree Aluminum line stands out. One editor took it on a weekend trip and praised its toughness after bouncing between car trunks and staircases. The push-button locks and protective bumpers are nice touches, and the five-year warranty backs it up. It’s heavy and prone to dings, but that’s the trade-off for indestructibility.
Rimowa’s Essential Cabin impressed another editor during a Colombia trip. The interior compression system let him pack souvenirs without sacrificing essentials. Rimowa’s repair service is a standout—send in a broken wheel or dented shell, and they return it looking new. That longevity makes the high upfront cost easier to swallow.
For checked bags, Briggs & Riley’s medium expandable spinner won over a skeptic. The one-touch expansion adds 25 percent capacity, and adjustable garment panels keep clothes from shifting. One editor’s bag survived a week lost in transit with only minor scuffs.
Tumi’s 19 Degree Rolling Trunk is a showstopper—shiny, spacious, and equipped with built-in shelves for ultra-organized packing. It’s bulky and heavy, but if you’re okay with that, it’s a workhorse.
For weekenders, Louis Vuitton’s Keepall 55 is a classic. It folds flat for storage, fits in overhead bins, and looks like it belongs in a ’90s paparazzi shot. No wheels, but the detachable strap makes it manageable.
Cuyana’s System Tote works as a personal item for daily commutes or road trips. It’s structured enough to hold its shape but folds when not in use, with an interior pocket for essentials.
Not every luxury bag delivers. These do.