The Best Luxury Luggage for Every Kind of Traveler

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A great suitcase should take you from point A to point B without hassle. But an exceptional suitcase should also be spacious, easily transportable, and designed to withstand the rigors of travel while protecting your possessions. That's where luxury luggage come into play.

Designer travel bags are typically crafted with premium materials, such aluminum or polycarbonate hardshells and quality leather, and tricked out with a slew of functional features, like space-saving compression pads, TSA locks for extra security, and expandable zippers for additional storage. It doesn't hurt either that their chic silhouettes and designs can also make you look put-together while maneuvering the airport (even though you might not feel like it).

Team T&C knows a thing or two about designer luggage (no surprise there), and the editors got together to curate a list of the most reliable options that are worth every penny. Whether you're looking for a durable carry-on, on the market for a checked bag for long European getaways, or in need of a weekender for short trips to the Hamptons, here are the best luxury luggage brands to shop for upcoming summer travels.

The Carry-On X

If it's good enough for Logan Roy & Co., it's certainly good enough for the rest of us. As fans of Succession already know, the members of TV's most dysfunctional billionaire clan are partial to subtle markers of extreme wealth—and Carl Friedrik is their choice luggage. And for good reason: understated, sleek, and a perfect way to transport all that Loro Piana cashmere.

T&C's Leena Kim is also a fan and calls the suitcase an "excellent travel companion." She writes, "It's quite lightweight, even for a (German-engineered) polycarbonate shell; the wheels have proved worthy of harsh urban terrain, like the cobblestoned streets of Rome; nearly an inch of expansion power means I can squeeze in a few more stuffed Paravel packing cubes; and that front laptop pocket gives this model a serious edge over its competitors. But my favorite part? The butterfly TSA locks, especially for the way they close with a satisfying click."

One reviewer writes: "Makes travelling a breeze. Elegant and simple design, and the front pocket fits my laptop and two passports perfectly. Would absolutely recommend."

Material: Aluminum

Dimensions: 21.7" H x 15" W x 9.6" D

Weight: 9.5 lbs

Cabin Twist

Lightweight but built to last, Rimowa's aluminum suitcase is so coveted for good reason. But the 126-year-old German brand's mastery of the hardy metal happened by accident—in the 1930s, a fire destroyed most of the materials in Rimowa's factory. All that remained? Aluminum.

Kim is also fan of Rimowa's suitcases and calls its carry-on "perfect for long weekend summer trips, to really commit to the carry-on life, in all seasons."

Material: Aluminum

Dimensions: 21.7" x 15.8" x 9.1"

Weight: 10lbs

Bellagio 2.0 30" Spinner Trunk

Lake Como-based Bric's has found famous fans in the likes of Amal Clooney and Kate Middleton. The Bellagio collection especially embodies all that is great about the 72-year-old brand: fine Italian craftsmanship, beautiful details, and throwback elegance.

One shopper on the internet says: "This carry-on suitcase is a game-changer!The polycarbonate shell is lightweight but tough. The multi-stage telescopic handle is comfortable to use, and the double deck compartments keep my stuff organized."

Material: Makrolon Polycarbonate

Dimensions: 21"W x 30"H x 11"D

Weight: 12lbs

Horizon 50

As far as status symbol suitcases go, none can rival Louis Vuitton luggage—the 170-year-old brand has its roots in luxury trunks after all. This perennial classic can also be customized in a variety of ways, whether you want to add stripe details, change up the colors, or monogram with your initials.

Material: Canvas

Dimensions: 13.8" x 7.9"

Weight: 6.2lbs

19 Degree Aluminum Extended Trip Packing Case

Since its inception in 1975, Tumi has become practically synonymous for luxury travel goods. Its 19 Degree Aluminum case boats a durable aluminum construction with fluid-looking contours, two TSA integrated combination locks, telescoping handle system, and a massive interior compartment for 7+ days of outfits.

One shopper raves: "The 19 Degree Aluminum series is very classy, it looks great when checking in especially as a Million Miler Diamond Status on Delta, these luggage just sets you apart from the rest. I use my 19 degree Aluminum Extended Packing Case and my 19 Degree Carryon as a pair every time I travel internationally. I have peace of mind because this luggage series is very tough and protects my precious belongings on to my destination."

Material: Aluminum

Dimensions: 30.5" x 20.5" x 11.0"

Weight: 16.1lbs

The Sweetheart

Since 2005, SteamLine has put a fresh, contemporary spin on timeless vintage silhouettes. Delightfully feminine and incredibly tough, this carry on features an elegant white and tan body that opens to a lush botanical print of foliage, flowers and birds.

Material: Printed Japanese Fibreboard/Leather

Dimensions: 20" x 14.5" x 6.5"

Weight: 8.8lbs

Cavalier I No. 96

Ghurka founder Marley Hodgson was inspired by military campaign gear when launching his luggage brand in 1975. That pretty much ensures each piece, handcrafted by artisans, is of the highest quality and is meant to last forever, developing a lovely aged patina as time goes on.

One reviewer writes: "I gave this to my husband as a gift. He absolutely loved it. At first he wouldn’t use it for long trips because he was worried he would scuff it and it’s so beautiful. Now, however, he takes it everywhere because he can’t be without it. It’s a perfect size. It’s great for a short trip as a solo piece. It’s elegant and the leather is gorgeous, and the interior is phenomenal as well. I am very pleased. "

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 17.25" W x 10" H x 9" D

Classic Duffle

If Rimowa showcases the best of German luggage design and Globe-Trotter the best of England's, T. Anthony is quintessentially American: Chic in its simplicity of design, practical and durable, and a trusted travel staple for generations of moneyed elite, among them the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, the Reagans, Jackie Kennedy, and Marilyn Monroe. Spacious and lightweight, this duffle is understated luxury at its finest.

T&C's Deputy Feature Director Adam Rathe is a fan.

Material: Nylon/Leather

Dimensions: 22” x 12” x 11”

Small DiorTravel Suitcase

Observe Dior's iconic Oblique jacquard pattern in a functional waterproof fabric that withstands any elements you may run into while on your adventures—the suitcase's relaxed shape emphasizes its all-purpose capability.

Material: Technical Jacquard

Dimensions: 13" L x 18.5" H x 5.5" W

Weight: 6lbs

Gucci Savoy Medium Trolley

A suitcase you'll have no trouble finding in baggage claim, this Gucci piece, featuring the luxury house's iconic double G insignia and red/green web, is constructed with durable canvas and comes with 360-degree wheels, retractable handles, and an exterior pocket that makes navigating through any airport a breeze.

Material: Canvas

Dimensions: 17.7" W x 25.2" H x 11.8" D

Weight: 14.2 lbs

Roadster 30" Expandable Spinner Luggage

Leave it to the manufacturer of some of the world's best high-performance sports cars to master an aerodynamic suitcase that is sleek, functional, durable, and, most importantly, super lightweight.

One shopper writes: "I bought this for my recent overseas travel across different countries. It performed perfectly in less than ideal circumstances. Baggage handlers do what they do, the roads and sidewalks with rocks and broken or nonexistent concrete didn't faze this luggage. Lightweight with expandable main compartment. Spinner wheels move smoothly and handles felt sturdy. "

Material: Polycarbonate

Dimensions: 20"W x 12"D x 30.5"T

Weight: 12.3lbs

Bank Collection Spinner 68

All made in Italy, FPM Milano's suitcases are a modern take on vintage trunks. Thick aluminum shells guarantee your valuables will be protected—plus, each case is reinforced with two butterfly locks plus a TSA lock. The aesthetic details, on the other hand—stud embellishments, handles crafted in fine Italian leather—are a tasteful touch.

Material: Aluminum

Dimensions: 17.75”W x 26”H x 10.5”D

Weight: 14.33 lbs

Centenary Medium Check-In Luggage

British heritage luggage company Globe-Trotter was established in 1897, so it has had over 125 years to hone the most exquisitely crafted suitcase. Queen Elizabeth exclusively used Globe-Trotter luggage, and did so since her honeymoon in 1947, alongside many other members of the royal family. The brand's check-in luggage is made of luggage with refined buckle straps and features protective bumpers for extra protection.

Material: Vulcanised Fibreboard

Dimensions: 20.5" W x 29" H x 10.25" D

Weight: 9.3lbs

What to look for when buying luxury luggage

The best luxury suitcases are built to last, convenient to travel with, and designed with form and function in mind.

When shopping for designer luggage, look for options made with aluminum or polycarbonate or premium leather—these materials tend to be heavy duty and water-resistant.

It's what's on the inside that counts, too. A great luxury travel bag should feature an extra roomy main compartment, space-saving compression pads, interior zippers for additional storage.

Don't forget the functional details, either: Look for options reinforced with TSA locks for extra protection.

Why trust Town & Country?

For more than 170 years, Town & Country has been the trusted source for influence, taste, elegant living, and the finest things in life. We cover everything from the latest and greatest in beauty to luxury travel to the buzziest fashion trends of the season. All of our stories are thoroughly researched, tested, and vetted by T&C editors and industry experts.

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