The memory of dragging two hand-me-down check-in suitcases – mutilated mesh pockets, tattered zippers, and collapsing corners – from New York to Morocco in 2012 still lives rent-free in my mind. It was my first solo journey, and I had far too much luggage, and unreliable pieces at that (dug from the depths of my mom’s attic). It still serves as a reminder of why, when it comes to finding the best luggage for international travel, quality is key.
I’ve since traveled to about 80 countries, usually toting luggage with straps in lieu of wheels, and mostly personal item carry-on bags only. I was doing great until 2022 (a full decade later!) when this border-bouncing backpacker caved and bought a rolling backpack (a noncommittal hybrid of sorts). Fall in Berlin called for bulky boots and denim, which called for more space – and also, back pain in your 30s is real.
Except I did it again. I bought cheap luggage on a no-name site, and not long later, it ripped to shreds on a cobblestoned corner of Prague, where I bought more cheap luggage – this time a real rolling carry-on suitcase. Not long later, I kicked the crap out of that purchase on a corner in Copenhagen because the plastic wheels wouldn’t work.
In other words: I learned the hard way to seriously stop skimping on luggage for international travel, whether it’s a travel backpack, a duffle on wheels, or a traditional carry-on. Now, I have the level of luggage I wipe down after yanking off the baggage claim belt because it’s too special to scuff. But finding the right suitcase took some serious time and research.
What Makes the Best Luggage For International Travel?
Size and Dimensions of Luggage For International Travel
For starters, you need to make sure that luggage you’re investing in fits the size and dimension requirements of the airline, which varies depending on the airline. In general, international carry-on bag limitations are generally about 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches, compared to domestic carry-on suitcases, which can be up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches. The dimension requirements for check-in luggage for international travel typically are around 27 x 21 x 14 inches.
Weight Requirements of Luggage For International Travel
Most international airlines cap you at 50 pounds (or 23kg) per piece of check-in luggage for economy class tickets. However, some airlines allow up to 70 pounds or (32kg) per check-in luggage if you’re flying business class or first class. And while domestic carry-on limits are generally about 35 pounds, most international flights only allow for about 10 to 20 pounds per carry-on bag (though, oftentimes, no one actually checks this!). Depending on the airline, you are allowed one to two checked bags, one carry-on, and a personal item bag that is stored underneath the seat in front of you. If you’re concerned, you can easily weigh your luggage before you get to the airport with a
Materials and Durability of Luggage For International Travel
Durability is also particularly important for luggage for international travel – both carry-on and check-in – because it has to survive greater lengths and various terrains. Heading to older cities, such as those in Europe, means you’ll need wheels that can handle cobblestones or bumpy streets. And if you’re heading anywhere sans elevators or remotely off the grid, you’ll need some heavy-duty handles that allow you to carry your bags to your destination without pulling a muscle.
Given the size and weight requirements, choosing between a hard- or soft-shell suitcase also matters. While soft-shell suitcases tend to be more flexible for fitting more for longer trips, hard-shell options tend to be more resilient for rambling around the world. It’s also important to note that hard-shell suitcases tend to weigh a bit more than soft-shell suitcases, and if you overpack like every pound matters, this is something to consider. You also need to make sure that, if your luggage has a lock, it’s TSA-approved, so it’s recognized worldwide.
That’s a lot to keep in mind. But, after my fair share of failed attempts, I’ve done the heavy lifting for you, so you don’t have to let lousy luggage become the bane of your next adventure. Shop my picks for the best luggage for international travel, ahead.
– Additional reporting by Anvita Reddy
