First-Class Luggage For Traveling

Suitcase shopping doesn’t sound as extravagant as buying clothes to put in your suitcase—I know—but let’s be honest, traveling is more fun when you have a chic luggage set. Deciding which suitcase to invest in can be stressful when there are an abundance of sizes and brands to choose from. My name is Emma (@emmahassemer) and to make matters easier for you, I rounded up a list of first-class luggage for traveling that are worth every penny.

Dearest D-RAVEL Traveler,

I’m always on the hunt for the best deals when shopping, but sometimes I get so overexcited about the price that I don’t pay attention to the quality of the product. It’s true when they say, “you get what you’re paying for,” which is why I believe strongly in investing in high-quality luggage. Spending $20 on poorly made luggage may result in a broken suitcase or carry-on greeting you at baggage claim—talk about the worst way to start a vacation. 

From top-notch totes to the finest hardside suitcases, here is the official list of luggage that’s D-RAVEL-approved.

Checked and Carry-On Suitcases

American Tourister Moonlight Spinner

Hardside suitcases are the way to go. Not only are they more durable, but the hard shell casing will protect any fragile belongings stored inside. This one from American Tourister offers tons of storage space and has two large separate packing components to keep your belongings organized. The single-spinner wheels will make this suitcase a breeze to walk (or run) through the airport.

If you’re like me and tend to overpack, then you will appreciate that this suitcase gives you the option to expand with just the slide of a zipper. This is the perfect suitcase for travelers who love color and design. I’m a sucker for anything marble-print, so this suitcase is a winner in my book. 

Click here to purchase the 28-inch American Tourister Moonlight Spinner.

Click here to purchase the carry-on American Tourister Moonlight Spinner.

AmazonBasics Premium Hardside Spinner Suitcase Luggage with Wheels

Amazon has become my go-to for everything recently. If you’re someone who relies on reviews when deciding if a product is worth your money, Amazon shoppers will give it to you straight. This suitcase was given an average of 4.7 stars from over 1,000 who have purchased it, proving it to be a reliable piece of luggage in my eyes. Like the American Tourister suitcase, this one also comes in a hardshell casing, has four spinner wheels, expands in size and has two packing compartments. An added bonus that this suitcase has is a built-in lock, which allows you to create a unique four-digit code to prevent anyone from breaking in. 

Orange has been my favorite color as of recently, so the bold and bright orange shade that this suitcase comes in would be my No. 1 pick. Plus, it would stick out like a sore thumb from all the black suitcases in baggage claim. 

Click here to purchase the 28-inch AmazonBasics Premium Hardside Spinner Suitcase Luggage with Wheels.

Click here to purchase the carry-on AmazonBasics Premium Hardside Spinner Suitcase Luggage with Wheels.

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels

Samsonite is another popular and well-respected luggage brand. This sleek suitcase is as heavy-duty as it gets with its hardshell casing, yet is extremely lightweight, allowing it to roll smoothly through the airport. If I’m deciding between two suitcases, I’m more likely to choose whichever one is more lightweight. Like I said, I’m an overpacker and it can be a struggle for me to keep the suitcase under 50 pounds. No one wants to pay an overweight baggage fee.

Like the AmazonBasics suitcase, the Samsonite suitcase has a built-in lock for extra security. Of the three, the Samsonite suitcase has the largest range of colors. So whether you favor bright pastels or dark hues, you’re bound to find a color that suits you. 

Click here to purchase the 28-inch Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels.

Click here to purchase the carry-on Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels.

Backpacks

Open Story Day Trip Backpack

I like to bring my various electronics and devices wherever I go, so needless to say a backpack with multiple pockets and lots of padding is a travel necessity for me. This one by Open Story from Target initially caught my eye because of the gorgeous taupe color. After doing some more digging around, this backpack checks both form and function. 

No need to worry about your laptop shifting around or getting damaged mid-flight because this backpack has thick, durable padding surrounding each pocket. Your cords, chargers, laptop and any other breakables are safe and sound in the Open Story Day Trip Backpack. 

Click here to purchase the Open Story Day Trip Backpack. 

GOgroove Full Size DSLR Photography Backpack

For all of my photographers out there, this is the travel backpack for you. If you have an expensive camera that you want to take on your next trip, you need to make sure you have a backpack that promises protection of all kinds. The GOgroove photography backpack has a padded compartment for all of your camera equipment including your tripod, various lenses, chargers and laptop. 

Along with the backpack’s durable built and stylish looks, it’s very comfortable to wear. Hauling around heavy camera equipment sounds like a workout, but thanks to the padded adjustable straps and waistband, you’re able to control how much weight is distributed on your shoulders and back. 

Click here to purchase the GOgroove Full Size DSLR Photography Backpack. 

Dakine 365 Pack 30L Backpack

Shopping sustainably is a trend that’s still going strong—and hopefully it stays that way. I believe everyone should do their part to shop locally and support more sustainable and ethical brands, such as Dakine. Dakine uses environmentally friendly and recycled materials to craft their beautiful products. One of the brand’s most popular items is its backpacks. 

The 365 Pack 30L Backpack includes safe storage for your laptop and tablet, an insulated cooler for snacks and a fleece-lined pocket for your glasses. Not only are you getting a stunning high-quality product, but your money is going towards a brand with good intentions. 

Click here to purchase the Dakine 365 Pack 30L Backpack.

Totes and Large Bags

Herschel Strand Tote

If one-strapping it is more your speed, there are plenty of travel-friendly totes to choose from. Herschel is well-known for its backpacks, but can we take a second to talk about how perfect the brand’s totes are? Normally I’m not one to reach for a tote over a backpack, but the Herschel Strand Tote has me reconsidering. 

This cute tote has a space for your laptop and carry-on necessities, making it the perfect tote to bring on a plane. But, this tote also acts as the perfect overnight bag. The Strand Tote will fit your pajamas, cosmetic and skincare bag, a fresh pair of shoes and your next day’s outfit. This tote is the full package. 

Click here to purchase the Herschel Strand Tote.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe

The Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe bag is just the bag you need for a weekend getaway. This bag comes in three different makes: washed canvas, 600D recycled poly and organic canvas. If you strictly shop sustainable products, this bag fits the criteria. The color range and silhouette of the Catalina Deluxe is clean and classic, so it will never go out of style. 

The style of the Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe bag reminds me of a more stylish rendition of a duffle bag because of how much it can store. My favorite feature of this bag is the pass-through-sleeve, which allows you to slide the bag over your suitcase for a seamless travel. 

Click here to purchase the Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe. 

While traveling isn’t at the top of everyone’s list right now, it’s not a bad time to treat yourself to some new luggage. Look on the bright side, when traveling becomes safe again, you will be ready to hit the airport with your fresh suitcase, backpack or tote—or maybe all three. 

As always, happy traveling!