The Best Luggage Sets, Tested by Experts

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-in. and 28-in. suitcases | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Samsonite consistently stands out in our Lab evaluations and has wowed our consumer testers. This luggage set includes two of our top-tested suitcases from the brand's Freeform collection — the smaller 21-inch carry-on model and the larger 28-inch checked bag. These suitcases are made of durable hardside material that performed well in our drop tests, resisting major damage after being released repeatedly at different angles from a set 3-foot height.

When we packed the suitcases with a standard load of items like clothing, shoes and accessories, we were impressed by how well everything fit inside with room to spare — even without having to use the 2-inch expansion system. One caveat: Some of our testers noted that the carrying handles on suitcases in this collection felt a bit tight, which made it more difficult to lift or lower the bags. However, the telescopic handles received higher scores for feeling sturdy and comfortable to use.

Testers also appreciated how fluid the zippers are and how easily the suitcases navigated around twists and turns. They also said the 360-degree spinner wheels were nice and smooth.

RELATED: The Best Samsonite Luggage Pieces

Pieces: 3 | Sizes: 21-in. and 25-in. suitcases, 10-in. personal item | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

At less than $100 for three pieces, this basic American Tourister trio is an absolute steal and one of the best affordable luggage sets out there. While the softside carry-on, checked bag and personal item may be fairly simple in design, they're still full of practical features that make traveling easier, like plenty of external pockets, interior mesh pockets and compression straps to secure your belongings.

The brand's bags aren't as durable as others we've tested in the Lab, so I recommend this set for someone who isn't planning to fly frequently. According to one GH analyst who has used this set for nearly a decade, the softside polyester material is slightly worn with some fraying and scuffs, but the bags are still useable, and the important features, like the telescopic handles and zippers, are in working condition.

When we evaluated other suitcases from American Tourister, testers highlighted the smooth and stable wheels, meanwhile online reviewers said they roll nicely, despite only moving forward and backward.

RELATED: The Best Luggage Brands

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-in. and 25-in. suitcases | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 100 days, any reason

Originally designed by a pilot for other pilots who are always on the go, Travelpro's luggage is the perfect pick for the frequent flyer, and I'm particularly impressed by the brand's Platinum Elite collection. The softside suitcases were some of the top performers in our durability tests, withstanding repeated dropping without dents or damage. The nylon material resisted signs of wear after being rubbed back and forth with our abrasion tester. They are heavier than many of the other bags we tested, but they are durable bags built to last.

The suitcases are thoughtfully designed with a tapered expansion system that prevents the bags from tipping over when full. Self-aligning spinner wheels let you push and pull in all directions, and cushioned handles with contoured grips add a comfortable feel. Plus, they're packed full of extras inside like expandable garment bags, toiletries bags and hidden USB ports to charge electronic devices (power bank not included).

Our testers gave luggage in this collection high scores for ease of use and highlighted the sturdiness of the telescopic handle. If you're nervous about committing to the high price tag, the brand offers a 100-day return policy, even for used suitcases.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Travelpro Platinum Elite Collection

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 20-in. and 28-in. suitcases | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Not only does this two-piece luggage set from Amazon Basics have thousands of five-star reviews, but it also earned high scores in our Lab evaluations and was loved by our testers. The carry-on and checked suitcase both unfold into two main packing compartments, one with compression straps to keep your belongings in place and another with a full zippered panel for even more security. When we packed the carry-on bag in the Lab, we fit an entire weekend's worth of gear including clothing, shoes and toiletries with room to spare. Plus, both of the suitcases expand for even more space.

The hardside suitcases are made of lightweight ABS plastic that keeps the price low, though it wasn't as scratch-resistant as some other suitcases we tested. It did hold up well in our drop tests though, with no serious denting or breakage after being released repeatedly from a set 3-foot height. When testers rolled the suitcases through our luggage obstacle course, around turns and over different surfaces from wood to carpeting, they were impressed by the maneuverability and wheel performance.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-in. and 29.5-in. suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate and ABS composite | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

For luggage that looks as great as it performs, I recommend Calpak's Ambeur two-piece luggage set, which offers the best of fashion and function. Available in seven fun metallic shades that are sure to stand out at baggage claim, the bags are made of a composite of polycarbonate and ABS plastic that aced our Lab tests for durability. They also proved water-resistant in our evaluations, but did show noticeable markings after we dragged a wire across the surface during our scratch-resistance tests.

The bags are GH-tester favorites and earned top marks for their performance in our luggage obstacle course, which had testers pull the suitcases over different surfaces and around sharp turns. Testers especially loved the sturdy, easy-to-use telescopic handle. When we assessed the suitcases in the Lab, we were impressed by the zippers that opened and closed with ease.

The spacious interior compartments were able to hold our entire packing load of items including clothing, shoes and toiletries. Both the carry-on and checked bag are expandable and equipped with zippered organizational pockets, compression straps and a removable toiletries bag. For even more organization, you can try Calpak's top-tested packing cubes too.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 22-in. and 26.5-in. suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Designed with simplicity in mind, this two-piece set from luggage brand Monos has a sleek, modern look that our testers loved. Both of the bags opened to reveal two spacious compartments that were able to fit our entire load of items in our packing tests. The carry-on bag features an adjustable compression panel, while the larger checked bag is equipped with compression straps and a larger fabric panel to keep everything in place. What's more, there are plenty of organizational mesh pockets inside the bags, along with additional shoe bags and a laundry bag to separate your dirty clothes.

During Lab evaluations, the durable carry-on and checked suitcase resisted major denting and damage in our drop tests. Both we and our consumer testers noticed prominent scuffing on the suitcases after use, but the brand provides a sponge for cleaning. One GH analyst said the sponge removed most of the marks on her bag.

In our luggage obstacle course, testers appreciated the smooth gliding wheels and appreciated how effortless it was to maneuver the bags around twists and turns. They also noticed how well the telescopic handles locked into place at four different heights for easy toting.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Monos Luggage

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21.7-in. and 29-in. suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Popular luggage brand Away carries sets of its best-selling carry-on and large checked bag for a better value. Shoppers can combine any luggage pieces and snag $50 off the two luggage pieces or $100 off three.

The hardside suitcases are loved by testers who highlighted the streamlined look and the spacious, well-organized interior. The bags open into two separate packing compartments with zippered mesh panels and pockets for additional space.

There's also an adjustable compression panel inside each bag so you can really stuff it full if you're an over-packer like me. When we packed the bags in the Lab, we appreciated how smoothly the zippers opened and closed and how much we could fit inside.

The polycarbonate material is super lightweight and ultra durable. It performed well in our drop tests, remaining in great condition after being released multiple times from a set 3-foot height. In our scratch tests, the bags showed minimal scuffs and markings.

The bags received high scores for their maneuverability and smooth wheels. One caveat: Our consumer testers gave the telescopic handle lower ratings for feeling a bit wobbly when fully extended. If you want to add a personal touch to your luggage set, Away offers monograms of up to three letters for an added fee.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Away Luggage

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: Varies by selection | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No

If you're on Instagram or TikTok, chances are that you've come across viral luggage brand Béis. Actress Shay Mitchell's trendsetting travel brand offers carry-ons, checked bags, weekender bags and more — all thoughtfully designed, with mix-and-match sets. You can get 10% off your purchase of any roller bag and weekender bag set.

The suitcases feature details like cushy padded telescopic handles, a retractable strap to hold a small bag or your travel blanket and a built-in weight indicator to let you know if your bag exceeds 50 pounds. I'm especially a fan of the chic monochromatic color options — even the metal of the telescopic handle matches.

When we tested the brand's suitcases in the Textiles Lab, my fellow GH analysts and I were impressed by how well the luggage withstood dents and damage after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. We did note that the material was more prone to scratches and scuffs than other luggage we tested.

The suitcases open butterfly style, exposing a spacious zippered compartment and a compartment with a secure compression strap. A few smaller pockets help keep your things organized. You can choose which pieces to include in your luggage set, so the price and number of pieces vary depending on your selections.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Béis Luggage

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21.5-inch and 30.25-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No

July's suitcases, named after the most popular month for traveling, are exceptionally designed for the accessible price point, and the Australian-based company is increasingly becoming one of the most sought-after luggage brands online. GH analyst Grace Wu says it lives up to the hype: "It might just be the best luggage I've ever owned."

The bags have a simple yet sleek appearance, complete with aluminum corners that elevate otherwise minimalist suitcases. The telescopic handle stops at 20 different heights, so it will stop without falling down immediately, but won't fully lock in until lifted to half its full height. It's also slightly slanted, which the brand says offers better ergonomics. While wheeling the luggage through our in-Lab obstacle course, some users liked this design feature and others found it a bit awkward.

What really impressed us was the maneuverability. During in-Lab testing, participants in our obstacle course gave July bags some of the highest scores for ease of use, particularly for their smooth, 360-degree wheels and adjustable handle. These suitcases performed extremely well in durability tests too, particularly impact resistance. It didn't earn the best scratch resistance scores, though.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: July Luggage