My Favorite Travel Luggage & Backpacks (That Are Actually Worth It)
Packing shouldn’t be stressful—and the right luggage can honestly make or break your trip. After years of traveling (and testing what actually holds up), I’ve found a few go-to pieces that are stylish, functional, and worth the investment.
Whether you’re heading to Europe, a weekend getaway, or a long-haul trip, these are my favorite luggage and backpack picks you’ll use over and over again.
A good carry-on is non-negotiable. These are my top picks that combine durability, organization, and style:
• Away Carry-On
Sleek, minimal, and super durable. The battery feature is perfect for charging your phone at the airport.
• Samsonite Freeform Spinner
A more budget-friendly option that still feels high-end. Lightweight and glides easily.
• Travelpro Hardsides Expandable
Spinner wheels, cute colours and a TSA approved built in lock
Tip: Look for 360° spinner wheels and a hard shell—it makes navigating airports SO much easier.
Best Checked Luggage
For longer trips (like Europe!), a reliable checked bag is key. You do not want to be rolling along on the cobblestone and have a wheel break. However, I’m not going to lie here, I NEVER take a checked bag. I only remember taking one when we took our 3 boys to Hawaii for 1 month.
Having a nice quality large suitcase is definitely a good option. Myself, I ALWAYS pack a 2 week trip into a carryon. I really try to avoid the large suitcase simply because they are such a pain to take on trains and roll over cobblestone streets.
• Away Large Suitcase
Perfect for extended travel. It’s sturdy and holds a surprising amount without feeling bulky.
• Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX
Great value option that’s tough and lightweight.
Whenever it’s time for me to buy a new check bag, I always opt for any colour besides black! I love a kelly green suitcase.
Best Travel Backpacks (Your Personal Item)
Your backpack is your in-flight survival kit—so it needs to be functional and comfortable.
• North Face Router Everyday Backpack
Water repellent finish, supportive straps, water bottle pockets and a laptop sleeve.
• Lululemon Everyday Backpack 21L
This is the backpack I have been using for about 3 years. I love it. It fits everything I need it to and has held up really well.Tomtoc Travel Backpack
This is a great budget friendly option. Holds a ton!I always pack my over the ear headphones, portable charger, a pill organizer,
a bluetooth sleep mask, and this exact blanket
Final Thoughts
The best luggage is the kind that makes your trip feel easier—not more complicated. You don’t need a million pieces, just a few really good ones that you trust.
If you’re building your travel setup, I recommend starting with:
1 solid carry-on
1 comfortable backpack
Over the ear headphones
And my secret weapon for going overseas is bringing a foldable bag that can double as a carry on. You can check your other suitcase carryon if you need and bring this on the plane. It folds down really small, has a suitcase strap and all the pockets. Its really great if you end up buying more souvenirs than planned!
From there, you can upgrade as you travel more.
(I may make a small commission at no cost to you.)
