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Carrying Baggage While Traveling to the U.S.A.

Your purpose of travel to the U.S.A. will determine what you carry in your baggage. The needs of a person going to the U.S.A. as a short-term tourist may be different than those of a person going as a student or a temporary worker.

Unless you are traveling to the U.S.A. in the winter, you shouldn’t need to pack many winter clothes. It is best to buy winter clothes and jackets in the U.S.A. itself because most winter clothes from warm countries are not suitable for snow and ice.

You should carry a leather jacket, leather shoes, a leather belt, and a leather wallet (purse), as leather items are expensive in the U.S.A.

You should not carry heavy utensils, but you should carry a pressure cooker if you are going to the U.S. to stay there. Unless you absolutely need specialty spices, it is best to avoid carrying them. There are many ethnic grocery stores and restaurants all around the U.S.A., and such things are easily purchased.

The big bags that go through cargo are check-in baggage. Hand baggage (or carry-on luggage) is the small totes you carry with you at all times. Put a small sticker on your check-in baggage indicating your destination address and telephone number. If you lose your luggage at the airport, do not leave the terminal until you file a complaint with the authorities.

Check-In Baggage

Most airlines allow a total of two pieces of luggage free of charge for each ticketed passenger: one carry-on bag and one checked item. International airports determine luggage allowance and luggage charges (if applicable) based on weight and the number of pieces. Some airlines allow two checked bags. Most airlines allow two checked bags for business and first-class passengers. Check with your airline in advance for the most recent information about baggage.

You can check your big bags at check-in. At the time of check-in, airport staff will take these bags for transport and return them to you at your final destination. You will not see these bags anywhere in between. However, if you are taking a domestic flight after the international one, you may need to pick up your bags and recheck them at the domestic terminal. If your bags are not very strong, tie ropes so they can withstand rough handling.

Generally, total linear dimensions (length + height + width) of each checked bag must not exceed 158 cm (62 inches), and the weight of each bag must not exceed 23 kg (50 pounds). However, exact dimensions may vary with different airlines, so it is best to check with the airline in advance.

TSA-Approved Locks If you are locking your checked baggage, always use Transportation Security Administration (TSA)-approved/accepted luggage locks. TSA screens every passenger’s baggage before it is placed on the airplane. While technology allows them to electronically screen bags, there are times when TSA needs to physically inspect a piece of luggage. TSA has worked with several companies to develop locks that can be opened by security officers using universal “master” keys so that the locks will not have to be cut. These locks are available at airports and travel stores worldwide. The packaging on the locks indicates whether they can be opened by TSA.

• https://www.safeskieslocks.com/
• https://www.travelsentry.org

Hand Baggage

You can carry one piece per person. You should have all the important visa documents you carried to the embassy/consulate because they might need them at immigration at the port of entry (arrival at the first international airport) in the U.S.A. Also, carry one set of clothing and other necessities, like a toothbrush, etc.

Each passenger is allowed one piece of carry-on luggage plus a briefcase/laptop computer bag/purse. In addition, each passenger may carry a coat, umbrella, cane, or other “special” item (see item listing below). Check all items you will not need during the flight. Medicine, keys, important papers, and travel documents (passports) should be carried on board by the passenger.

Carry-on luggage must fit underneath the passenger seat or in an overhead compartment. Maximum carry-on dimensions are 22″ x 14″ x 9″ (carry-on bags must fit in carry-on size box located at check-in counters). Some airlines enforce maximum carry-on weight, which varies by airline. Passengers traveling in first class, business class, or who have accumulated enough miles in their frequent flyer program (like gold members, silver members, etc.) may be allowed an extra carry-on item. This depends on the airline.

“Special” Items:

• Crutches, cane, brace, or other prosthesis on which passenger is dependent
• Collapsible manual wheelchair
• One stroller
• Infant car seat
• Infant diaper bag
• Two golf clubs (if approved storage space is available)
• Reading material
• Two-wheeled luggage cart (cart and bag must fit under seat or in overhead bin)

Infants not entitled to a seat are allowed one checked bag with total linear dimensions not exceeding 115 cm (45 inches), plus one checked or carry-on fully collapsible stroller or push chair, an infant’s carrying basket, or car seat that may be stored in the passenger cabin (subject to availability of space).

Disabled Passengers

Disabled passengers are allowed one fully collapsible wheelchair and/or crutches, canes, braces, and other prosthetic devices without charge over and above the free baggage allowance, provided the passenger is dependent on them. Fully collapsible wheelchairs may be stored in the passenger cabin if space permits and at the complete discretion of the airline at the time of check-in. Collapsible wheelchairs not permitted in the passenger cabin will be carried in the baggage holds.

Miscellaneous Articles

The following articles, regardless of their actual dimensions, may be considered a piece of checked baggage at 158 cm (62 inches):

• One sleeping bag or bedroll
• One rucksack, knapsack, or backpack
• One pair of snow skis with one pair of ski poles and one pair of ski boots, or one snowboard and boots
• One golf bag containing golf clubs and one pair of golf shoes
• One duffel-type bag or a soft-sided zippered bag with zippered side panel (IATA Type 22)
• One suitably packed bicycle (single seat, non-motorized touring or racing type) with handlebars fixed sideways and pedals removed
• One pair of standard water skis or one slalom water ski
• Suitably packed fishing equipment consisting of not more than two rods, reel, one landing net, one pair of fishing boots, and one fishing tackle box
• One portable musical instrument not exceeding 100 cm (39 inches) in length

Check the U.S. Customs website for details regarding what you can and can’t bring to the U.S.

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Immigrant's Suitcase

Original content by: Emma Ritter

About This Artifact

Adventure, travel, prosperity , socioeconomic stability , freedom from persecution or discrimination , curiosity, or simply getting a fresh start - these were all reasons why many people immigrated to the Americas from countries around the world. Prior to the expansion of air travel after World War II, most of these immigrants arrived aboard  passenger ships.

As immigrants first started to arrive by passenger ship they could be seen with large streamer trunks  which held their prized possessions. By the end of the 19 th century, suitcases (or suit-cases) were introduced to travelers. Besides the clothes they wore, the trunks and suitcases carried meaningful articles that provided immigrants with their only material link to life in their native countries. We know little about the history of the suitcase featured in these photographs prior to its acquisition by the Museum. Its label indicates that it belonged to Eugenio Amoroso and it was used on the passenger ship Saturnia of the SS Italia Line. 

The Saturnia , operated by Italia Società Di Navigazione , made yearly  translatantic trips and was highly influencial in Italian immigration for decades.  It is probable that Mr. Amoroso is the same man identified in Ellis Island records as Eugenio Ambrosio, who traveled alone from Naples, Italy to New York aboard the Saturnia in 1949. Names of new immigrants were often changed, both by immigrants themselves and by immigration officials struggling through language barriers . Records from the Saturnia's   manifest  show that Mr. Ambrosio carried only one suitcase on the long transatlantic trip from Italy to the United States. The ship departed Naples, Italy on July 23 and made stops at Gibraltar  and the Azores  before arriving in New York City on January 1st, 1950. 

Questions for Further Thought

• What events in Europe in the late 1940s were contributing to immigration? Why was America considered the best place to immigrate?
• Trace your family lineage as far back as you can. What part of your personal family history might be important to local or U.S. history?
• Why would people leave their homes, families, and familiar surroundings to board a passenger ship bound for another country?

• Share Content

Guide for Undocumented Individuals Traveling in the U.S.

Themes/Topics: Law & Policy

Geography: California, National

Audience: Ally, Educator, Undocumented Youth

Introduction

Traveling in the U.S. can be a complicated and stressful process for anyone—even more so if you’re undocumented! But it doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re thinking of traveling as an undocumented person (with or without DACA) and are curious about how to travel safely, read on. Safe travels, undocu-travelers!

Introduction Domestic Flights Ground Transportation: Public Buses & Trains Ground Transportation: Driving Traveling to U.S. Territories

Domestic Flights

All travelers flying on a domestic flight must present a valid (unexpired) photo ID issued by the state or federal government. Undocumented individuals may use the following forms of ID accepted by TSA:

• State photo identity card
• State driver’s license
• Military ID
• Foreign passport (must be unexpired 1 )
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service Employment Authorization Card
• Trusted traveler cards such as the NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST cards issued by the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”)
• Border-crossing cards
• Native American tribal ID cards
• Airline or airport photo ID cards issued in compliance with TSA regulations and transportation worker ID credential

For a full list of TSA-acceptable forms of ID click here .

FAQ Regarding Domestic Flights

Yes, as noted above, the list of approved identification to fly domestically includes foreign government-issued passports (must be valid) and/or a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766). There have been reports of individuals who were not able to fly with these documents due to erroneous TSA agent denials. In such instances, inform the TSA agent that according to posted Transportation Security Administration guidelines, these are acceptable documents. Here is the link: tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification

We recommend that you review TSA’s most up-to-date guidelines before your domestic flight.

Ground Transportation: Public Buses & Trains

There have been reports, especially during the Trump Administration, of Border Patrol agents conducting immigration checks without warrants on buses and trains, such as Greyhound and Amtrak. Although Customs Border Patrol (CBP) has publicly said that its agents are prohibited from boarding buses/trains and questioning passengers without warrants or a company’s consent, it’s a good idea for any passenger to be aware of the following rights:

• You have the right to remain silent.
• When in doubt, do not answer questions about your citizenship or immigration status or sign any paperwork without the advice of a lawyer. Do not lie – silence is often better.
• If you have valid immigration papers, you can provide them. Never provide false documents.
• You can refuse a search of your belongings by saying “I do not consent to a search.”
• You have the right to record video of immigration agents.
• If you are stopped or searched, you have the right to ask for the officer’s name / ID number.

FAQ Regarding Ground Transportation

Ground transportation: driving.

Like citizens, certain non-citizens may be eligible to drive legally. In some states, certain non-citizens are eligible to apply for a driver’s license. Check your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to determine if you are eligible to apply for a driver’s license regardless of your immigration status. If you are stopped by either law enforcement or immigration enforcement while in your car, consider the following recommendations:

• Stop the car in a safe place as quickly as possible. Turn off the car, turn on the internal light, open the window part way, and place your hands on the wheel.
• Upon request, show the police your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.
• If an officer or immigration agent asks to search your car, you can refuse. However, if the police believe your car contains evidence of a crime, they can search it without your consent.
• Both drivers and passengers have the right to remain silent. If you’re a passenger, you can also ask if you’re free to leave. If yes, silently leave.

FAQ Regarding Driving

Below are some noted checkpoints within California. Be prepared. Plan your route of travel and check before traveling.

• San Clemente: located 7 miles south of San Clemente on Interstate 5.
• Temecula: located 24 miles north of Escondido on Interstate 15.
• Highway 79: located 1 mile west of Sunshine Summit.
• I-8 West: located 3 miles east of Pine Valley on Interstate 8.
• Highway 94: located 24 miles east of San Diego on California State Route 94.
• Highway 78/86: located just south of the intersection of California State Routes 78 and 86, just west of the Salton Sea, controlling northbound traffic only.
• Highway 111: located between Niland and Bombay Beach.
• Highway S2: located 7 miles north of Ocotillo and I-8 in eastern San Diego County on S2 (Imperial Hwy/Sweeney Pass Road) between I-8 and State Route 78.

Traveling to U.S. Territories

Undocumented individuals who hold a temporary protection (e.g. TPS/DACA-recipients) may travel to the U.S. Territories without Advance Parole. However, it’s important to know where and how to safely travel overseas to the U.S. Territories.

IMPORTANT : Traveling to the U.S Territories without DACA, even though a person has never technically left the U.S., could result in a referral to ICE for removal.

You may also find the following information on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) website helpful.

[1] If you’re traveling with an expired license or passport you may still be able to fly. Acceptable forms of ID cannot be more than 12 months past the identified expiration date. Click here for more information.

This resource was created by Jesús Flores Rodríguez with editing support from Claire Calderón and Denia Pérez, Esq.

Immigrants Rising helps you make decisions based on your potential, not your perceived limits. Visit our website so you can see what’s possible: immigrantsrising.org . For inquiries regarding this resource, please contact Jesus Flores, Legal Services Coordinator, at [email protected] . Revised 9/2023.

Related Resource:

• Guía para personas indocumentadas que viajan en EE.UU.

The 24 Best Travel Tote Bags for Your Next Big Trip

Whether it's your only bag or a carry-on supplement, a travel tote will take your packing game to the next level.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

T&C Tried and True

Medium metro tote deluxe.

Separate Compartment for Organization

Lo & sons catalina deluxe tote.

Luxurious Essential

Cuyana easy travel tote.

Folds Small for Easy Packing

Lululemon packable tote bag.

Classic Tote

Longchamp large le pliage tote.

Everyday to Travel Tote

Etronik travel duffel bag with usb charging port.

Minimalist and Functional

The renew transit weekender.

Bargain Bag

Bluboon travel tote bag.

Madewell The Shopper Tote

Heavy Lifter

Boat and tote.

Whatever your travel needs for the season ahead, odds are that a good tote can make your packing life more organized, and less stressful—honestly, what more could you hope for? With that in mind, we've scoured the internet for the more durable, functional travel totes for every type of traveler, from the serial overpacker to the organization fiend. Here, our favorite finds for all of your journeys.

Perpetually trying to find space in your carry-on for one last thing? Meet what one T&C editor calls, "the personal item of every overpacker's dream." Featuring five exterior pockets, plus six on the interior and an detachably pouch, it will keep all of your travel essentials organized while it's sturdy-yet-lightweight construction makes it easy to tuck in "just in case" items to your hearts desire without overwhelming your arms.

The cushy, reinforced straps are easy on the shoulders, but it also has a detachable crossbody strap and a built-in sleeve to slip over the handle of your luggage if you don't feel like toting. It also comes in four sizes (we're fond of the medium for it's ability to hold oodles of stuff while still slipping neatly beneath the seat in front of you on a plane) and a seasonally-refreshed roster of more than a dozen shades, making it as stylish as it is functional.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

For the "a place for everything and everything in its place" traveler, this tote has you covered with a zippered bottom pocket that's perfect for separating out toiletries or dirty shoes from the rest of your haul (an interior panel also allows you to open the bottom compartment fully, if you're craving a deeper bag.)

Available in recycled poly or sturdy canvas, at 15" x 14" x 7", it qualifies as a personal item for most airlines and has a handy luggage sleeve to pair with your suitcase. For those looking for larger options, it comes in four additional sizes as well.

Cuyana bags are a favorite of T&C editors and royals alike ( Meghan Markle is a big fan ) for their timelessly stylish silhouettes, buttery soft leather, and effortless functionality. This, their latest launch, is made specifically with travel in mind.

Crafted with lightweight, durable pebbled leather (currently available in four colorways) it offers ample interior space (a 37L volume, to be precise) plus two large pockets, a phone slip, and a key clip, as well as snaps for Cuyana devotees who want to mix in their System Flap Bag or System Zipper Pouch .

If you're more of a "shop when you get there" traveler, this bag brings the souvenir space without taking up lots of room in your primary bag. Water-repellant and roomy (it holds 32L by volume) it features rugged shoulder straps, plus an extra strap that lets it slip over the handle of roller luggage, and can fold into its own exterior pouch when not in use to make a tidy, handheld bundle.

Some things are classic for a reason. Case in point: this timeless Longchamp tote; just ask T&C 's associate shopping editor, Sophie Dweck, who's been carrying hers for over a decade . Made from sleek, easy-to-clean nylon that comes in a cornucopia of colors, it features a simple, spacious interior and strong leather straps that ensure it can stand up to anything your travels throw at it, and look good doing it.

Looking for a tote that's as useful in your day-to-day as it is when you're far away? This multi-use tote has racked up thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon for its versatility. A separate, vented shoe compartment makes it as friendly to gym sessions as beach trips, while its multiple pockets keep essentials organized. It also includes a luggage strap and a USB charging port so you can plug in your tech without rummaging through your bag for your battery pack, and comes in two sizes and almost 30 shades so it will match your travel style.

One reviewer writes: "I must say, it exceeded my expectations in every way! This bag is the perfect blend of style and functionality, making it a must-have for any woman on the go."

Type-A packers, take note: this 100% recycled polyester is all about options. Its four colorways can be worn crossbody, carried in hand, or over the shoulder, and include a zippered exterior pocket, a luggage sleeve, two water bottle holders, and a padded laptop sleeve—all with Everlane's signature modern minimalist vibe.

Available in 20 colorways and textures, this canvas tote features a luggage sleeve that also doubles as a tech pouch so your gadgets will always be at the ready. The sturdy construction and bargain price tag have made it a hit with reviewers, who site its roomy 16.5" x 9" x 14" size and comfort.

One reviewer writes: "I am so happy with this purchase! Reasonable price, large main compartment, and a few zip compartments to organize smaller items. Bag fits perfectly under airline seat, even when stuffed FULL. It stayed in place when I had it on top of my roller bag, and I noticed the shape of it kept it from making everything tip forward (which happened with my previous bag)."

For a travel bag that you can use as a purse all trip, this simple Madewell leather tote brings a perfect mix of style and space (12.75" x 12.75" x 7.5".) It even comes with an interior strap that allows you to change the shape, and doubles as a keyring.

True L.L. Bean lovers know that the brand's classic Boat and Tote bag is hard to beat—after all, it's been one of their signature styles since 1944. Crafted from rugged cotton canvas, it's tested to hold up to 500 pounds, so no matter how much you manage to overpack, this bag is guaranteed to take it on. And with four sizes and two interior lengths to choose from, as well as a dozen colors, there's a perfect one for all your needs.

Caraa Studio Tote

Whether you prefer a classic tote style or a backpack, this Italian leather bag gives you the best of both worlds. Along with the usual amenities (a slew of pockets, adjustable straps) it also has a collapsible waterproof shoe pocket for those days your travel plans call for a quick change.

More: The 18 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

Béis The Convertible Weekend Bag

This tote brings two-for-one power with a removable bottom compartment that can be used as is, or as a separate packing cube. Easy to clean polyester and polyurethane make it a cinch to keep looking like new, with a built-in luggage sleeve and removable laptop sleeve give it plenty of function for that rush through TSA.

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Tote

Some people pack an extra suitcase when traveling abroad. We propose this packable Tumi tote instead. It folds out to an impressive 8" x 14" x 8 size when fully opened and weighs less than a pound, so you can shop to your heart's content while getting those passport stamps.

More: The 13 Best Luggage Brands for Every Type of Traveler

Carhartt Legacy Tote East/West

Built to work hard, this water-repelling polyester Carhartt bag is tough enough to handle all of your travel adventures. It includes two exterior pockets as well as an interior divider and pockets, so it's and functional on the inside as it is on the outside.

One reviewer writes: "Even better than expected! I used it as my personal item for a trip to Mexico…placed my purse, tablet, magazines, etc inside…lots of pockets! Hides dirt, wipes off easily, very well made."

Revive Nylon Large Tote

Available in five-shades, this nylon tote (made with fabric crafted from 27 recycled water bottles with recycled leather trim) has jumbo exterior slip pockets (plus three interior pockets and a keyring) and a built-in padded laptop sleeve to match its roomy interior with organization.

One reviewer writes: "Great color, roomy, lots of pockets to keep things organized and easy to locate. Perfect for work and travel. Very happy with it."

Dagne Dover Jemi Tote

Want a travel tote that makes a style statement? Bring your puffer coat style to your bag with this versatile, vegan tote made from recycled plastic water bottles. At less than a pound and half (it holds 16.2 L volume), it's super lightweight, and has two sets of comfy handles—one for hand-held use and one for shoulder use—plus a luggage sleeve, so it's great no matter your travel style.

Naghedi Jet Setter Small Tote

Fully lined, basket-woven neoprene brings beautiful texture to this travel tote, making it ideal for those situations when you have to go straight from the plane to an event. It also has a zip closure and zippered interior pocket to ensure that your stuff stays in place even on the wildest travel days.

Scout Travel Bag Large

You want all of the weight in your travel bag to be from your must-haves, not from the bag itself. This colorful version from Scout (it comes in half a dozen colors and patterns) is a featherlight 1 pound, yet can hold up to 65 pounds of your gear, and can fold flat when not in use. It also comes with a zipper pocket and reinforced bottom so everything you pack stays comfortable where you want it.

Barbour Medium Travel Explorer Leather Tote Bag

The biggest name in waxed cotton jackets brings their British heritage sensibility to travel with this luxe 100% leather tote. Measuring 17.72'' x 14.96'', it comes with sturdy top handles and an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.

More: The 13 Best Luxury Luggage for Traveling in Style

WONHOX Large Travel Tote Bag

This waterproof travel tote features a luggage sleeve, three interior pockets, including a special compartment to separate wet and dry items (looking at you, still-damp swimsuit) and four external pockets, as well as a zip-open expansion on the bottom so your bag can be as big, or small, as you need.

One reviewer writes : "Schlepped this bag all over Europe and it holds a surprising amount of stuff! The little expander area on the bottom really helped me squeeze in a few extra souvenirs. The trolley sleeve is a MUST from now on. It hooks on to your roller suitcase so easily and is sturdy! I was throwing my baggage up on the train, in and out of taxis and through many airports easy peasy."

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

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• Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry
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• Travel Duffels

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Travel Duffel Large Bag For Trip, moving, Immigration, Storage (M(30L))

About this item.

• With a large storage bag, you can store a wide variety of items for travel, immigration, and storage.
• Enjoy your trip without any problems, even with a strong sewing finish.
• It has a cute character design and linen mix compared to traditional suitcases.
• Material: Cotton/ Linen mx
• Size: M(30L)-19.6(W)X11.8(H)7.9(L)inch / L(58L)-23.6(W)X15.7(H)X9.4(L)inch

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Product Description

Material: Cotton/ Linen mix Size: M(30L)-19.6(W)X11.8(H)7.9(L)inch / L(58L)-23.6(W)X15.7(H)X9.4(L)inch Weight: M(8.1oz) / L(10.6oz)

Looking for specific info?

Product details.

• Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 23.6 x 15.7 x 9.4 inches; 10.6 ounces
• Department ‏ : ‎ unisex-adult (luggage only)
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07GDPSBY2

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To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

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Know Before You Visit

Almost a million individuals enter the U.S. daily. Everyone arriving at a port of entry to the U.S. is subject to inspection by Customs and Border Protection officers for compliance with immigration, customs and agriculture regulations. The more international travelers know about what to expect, the easier and quicker the process becomes.  

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Classic IA Makeup Travel Bag

Size: Large

Color: Black

A nice, small, but stylish makeup travel bag!

Our t-bottom Classic IA Makeup Travel Bag  can be used for pretty much anything. This travel bag can make a excellent pencil cases, or cosmetic travel bags. Also, our makeup travel bag was constructed with a durable material and zipper closure.

 Product Details For The Classic IA Makeup Travel Bag:

• 100% polyester
• Multiple sizes
• Immigrant Apparel Logo with cheetah print
• T-bottom 2.5 inches long
• Non-laminated lining

Phone Number

IMMIGRANT APPAREL IS FOR ALL WALKS OF LIFE THAT RESIDE IN A FOREIGN LAND. I BELIEVE IT IS THE ESSENE OF NEW YORK CITY, WHERE I WAS RAISED.

OUR VISION IS TO UNITE CULTURES ACROSS THE WORLD.

GENERATIONS OF IMMIGRANTS WEAR IMMIGRANT APPAREL TO CELEBRATE THEIR HOME COUNTRIES. OUR DESIGNS BRING LIFE TO URBAN WEAR THROUGH VIVID COLORS AND BOLD PATTERNS.

IN THE EARLY STAGES, I WANTED TO CREATE A STYLE SEPARATING MY ART FROM OTHER APPAREL BRANDS. THE BRAND HAD TO CAPTIVATE AND LEAVE A LASTING EFFECT ON A GLOBAL SCALE. IMMIGRANT APPAREL STANDS ALONE IN DEFINING THE STRUGGLE AND OPPORTUNITY OF ALL PEOPLE FOREIGN TO A LAND. I.A. IS NOT ONLY A BRAND IT IS A STATEMENT WHERE YOU CAN REPRESENT YOUR ROOTS, PROUDLY.

THE 1980S WERE A VIOLENT MOMENT IN EL SALVADOR’S HISTORY. MY PARENTS MADE A COURAGEOUS EFFORT TO BRING MY BROTHER AND I TO THE UNITED STATES FOR A BETTER LIFE. MEMORIES OF MY LATE FATHER EXPRESSING HOW ONE CAN ACCOMPLISH AND ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS WITH HARD WORK ARE STILL EMBEDDED IN MY HEART. AS FOR MY MOTHER, HER EXAMPLE OF HOW A WOMAN CAN LEAD HAS BEEN A TREMENDOUS LESSON IN MY LIFE.

I AM FOREVER GRATEFUL FOR BOTH MY MOTHER AND LATE FATHER’S VALIANT EFFORTS AND SACRIFACES.

OUR DREAM HAS BECOME THE “IMMIGRANT DREAM.” THIS IS ALL WITHIN A LAND AS BEAUTIFUL AS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. MILLIONS OF FAMILIES HAVE LIVED THIS DREAM AND HAVE ESCAPED HARDSHIPS AND PURSUED FREEDOM IN THIS GREAT NATION. IMMIGRANT APPAREL IS A FACE OF DEDICATION TO MY SALVADORIAN IMMIGRANT FAMILY AND ALL THE IMMIGRANT FAMILIES ACROSS THE WORLD.

Founder and CEO

Immigrant Apparel INC. 2013

Betty Penate

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(Mom & I)

Immigrant Apparel is for all walks of life that reside in a foreign land.

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15 Best Luggage for International Travel in 2023

• Last Updated | December 13, 2023

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner suitcase is not only my best overall recommendation on this list, but is also voted as the best suitcase for international travel by several product review guides like Goodhousekeeping , Travel+Leisure , Upgraded Point , and more.

Before buying any bag, I always have lots of questions concerning its durability, especially considering that this is a 29” checked bag that will most likely go through serious manhandling in the hands of airport officials. I mean, who would want a dented, broken, or damaged suitcase while you’re miles away from home? But when I read through over 8000 glowing reviews and ratings by people who have used this bag, I was quite confident that this is a good buy.

This large suitcase, unlike many others I’ve tried, is well-built, and the wheels are not wobbly but spin smoothly. It is made from polyester with a Duraguard coating which means that it has an extra  water-repellent and stain-resistant coating , so you won’t have to worry about coffee spills or a soaked bag.

What’s unique about this bag?

What I love about this best travel luggage is that it is very spacious in its own right, and can even be  expanded  up to another 5cm so you can fit even more inside your case. I find this feature very handy for international travel, as it allows me to bring back lots of souvenirs from my holiday!

What’s not great  

The main downside about this luggage is that its handle can sometimes be a little temperamental and get stuck when trying to slide it back into place. However, if this issue does occur with your case, check out the section at the bottom of this guide on how to look after your luggage and make it last longer!

• Stain and water-resistant
• Durable and lightweight
• Lots of useful pockets

The handle can sometimes be temperamental

2. Best backpack: Tortuga Outbreaker 35L

If you’re looking for the best carry-on backpack to take on your next international adventure, the Outbreaker from  Tortuga  comes highly recommended. For one, it is made by  experienced travelers  who have in turn used their experiences and skills to create a practical and versatile backpack for travelers. That’s why it’s one of my top recommendations for the best luggage for European travel .

What’s more? The Outbreaker is comfortable to wear.

Thanks to the  padded shoulder straps  and  removable hip belts , fellow travelers like Pack Hacker and Onebagtravels have noted that carrying a heavy load with the bag is not a pain. Additionally, the included  load lifters and sternum strap help distribute the weight evenly.  Whether you’re exploring a new city on foot or taking a long bus ride to your next destination, the bag will help you get there with ease.

With the Outbreaker, everything has its place, including a dedicated  17” padded laptop and tablet compartment, two water bottle pockets as well as plenty of organizational pockets to keep everything neatly sorted. Plus, the main compartment  opens like a suitcase —so packing and unpacking is a breeze.

What’s unique about this bag? 

Measuring  20 x 13 x 8  inches, and weighing just 4.5 lb, this best carry-on luggage is perfectly  sized for international carry-on (less than 22 x 14 x 9 inches) and is sure to fit in the overhead bin of most airlines.

Also, the Outbreaker carries a lot—but not too much. To avoid excess baggage fees, most airlines limit carry-on bags to 45 liters or less . And at 35L, the bag meets this requirement, while also having enough space to hold enough items for a  five-day trip .

What’s not great  

If I have to mention the disadvantage of this bag, it has to be the cost. The backpack is relatively expensive compared to other options on the market. Furthermore, this bag is not expandable. So if you need more storage, I suggest you go for the  Outbreaker 45L .

• Meets carry-on size limits
• Comfortable
• Has many pockets and compartments
• Sturdy and water-resistant
• Lockable for added security
• Not expandable

3. Best hard-side: Samsonite Omni PC suitcase

If you’re interested in the best carry on luggage for international travel that combines a lightweight design with sturdy and durable materials, then look no further than this Samsonite luggage.  

The exterior of this best international suitcase is made from   polycarbonate material that will help to protect your belongings from rough handling and rough conditions. This means that it’s  scratch-resistant  thanks to the micro-diamond texture of the polycarbonate. As you can imagine, this is a great feature for international travel when the luggage will likely be thrown around quite a bit. Thanks to the Samsonite Omni’s TSA lock   on the side, you can rest assured that your bag will be kept safe and secure for the whole journey.

Like the other best suitcases for international travel on this list, I appreciate that there are 11 different color options for this best carry-on luggage, so you can choose one that fits your style and will be simple for you to spot as it moves along the conveyor belt at the airport! And as if that’s not enough, the Omni PC suitcase is fairly priced as well.

What’s not great 

Some people have complained that this suitcase’s handle can be a little weak while being pulled up or pushed down. Being as gentle as you can when lifting the handle up or down will help to avoid this from happening. Also, keep in mind that you should never lift a suitcase by the top handle; instead, always use the side one, which is considerably stronger because it’s attached to the case’s shell and helps to distribute the weight more evenly!

• Great spinner wheels
• Sturdy and durable material
• Comes with a TSA-approved lock for added security 

The handle can be a little flimsy

4. Best soft-side: Samsonite Solyte DLX Expandable Luggage

This is one of the lightest pieces of soft sided luggage on the market, making it ideal for international travel. You won’t have to worry about it being too heavy to carry or easily damaged because it is made from a durable and water-resistant polyester fabric that is also lightweight.

Additionally, the Samsonite Solyte DLX  has a reinforced frame and strong zippers, making it a resilient bag. Plus, the bag is supported by Samsonite’s track record for dependability and quality, giving you peace of mind that your valuables will be secure no matter where your adventures take you.

This best soft luggage for international travel also has features that make it ideal for traveling overseas, like 4 smooth rolling wheel s, a push-button locking telescopic handle, and an external USB port for charging your phone or tablet while you’re out and about.

There are stand-out attributes that I feel are compelling reasons that buyers like about this soft sided luggage. Some buyers like that it has numerous pockets that are useful for organizing their clothing, toiletries, and other items you need to stay organized.

For instance, the WetPak pocket is a favorite among travelers because it’s an ideal way to keep liquids without worrying about leaks or spills.

And don’t worry if you pack too much! You have extra room for souvenirs or last-minute things thanks to the suitcase’s 2-inch expansion . So you see, its lightweight design, expandable storage, and sturdy construction make it the best lightweight luggage for international travel.

When going through the Samsonite luggage reviews, I was disappointed to see that there isn’t a TSA-friendly lock or a designated laptop compartment to protect your device from damage. So, if you’re trying to choose soft sided luggage that will shield your laptop from harm, you might have to go for bags like the Monos Carry-on Pro Luggage .

• Lightweight and durable
• Multidirectional wheels
• USB charging port
• No laptop compartment

5. Best for business travel: Monos Carry-On Pro

The Monos Carry-On Pro is the perfect suitcase for business travelers. It comes with a built-in front compartment  that has three interior pockets and zippered pouches that are perfect for storing  15” laptops,   tablets, important documents, phones, batteries, cables, passports, sunglasses, or other small items.

There is also a  built-in compression pad,  an  anti-microbial   laundry bag,   and two shoe bags . You can tuck your shoes away at the zipped panel while the compression straps will keep your clothes compact and snug so nothing falls out!

The adjustable telescopic handle and whisper-quiet wheels make it easy to maneuver this best travel suitcase around airports and other busy areas. This was one feature of this bag that Elle of Travelswithelle loved. According to her, rolling anywhere is such a bliss, even on bumpy sidewalks, dirt pathways, and even carpeted hallways!

What’s unique about this bag?  

Another reason why I think the Carry-on Pro is great for international business travel is that it is sleek and modern. So, it would blend with any outfit you wear while looking good enough to go on your Instagram feed. Plus, Monos offers a limited lifetime warranty and a 100-day trial to ensure your new suitcase is the right travel companion for you. This means that when you purchase this suitcase, you can try it out for up to 100 days and if you don’t like it, you can return it.

What’s not great

So, what are the drawbacks of this Monos luggage?

Based on the reviews on their website and blog posts , I found that the major gripe customers have is that it can be hard to close the exterior laptop case if you have packed too many things into the main compartment. To avoid this, I suggest you do not overstuff the main compartment or the tech compartment so that the bag can zip up easily.

Another common complaint in Monos luggage reviews has to do with scuff marks on the exterior of the suitcase after a few uses. However, some users like Hannah Freedman of Insider , found that using erasers helps in removing the marks. All in all, if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line carry-on suitcase that will make your next international trip a breeze, the Monos Carry-On Pro is worth considering. 

• Laptop compartment
• Highly organized
• Sleek and stylish
• limited lifetime warranty + 100-day trial
• The laptop compartment zipper won’t close when the bag is overstuffed
• Scratch marks from use

6. Best luxury luggage: Briggs and Riley Baseline Spinner Luggage

Although I have stated that style isn’t a determining element in the quality of luggage, some brands excel in both fashion and function. Briggs and Riley is one of those companies, and their Baseline Spinner bag consistently comes out on top when it comes to the most luxury luggage.

Despite being by far the priciest bag on the list, this soft sided luggage undoubtedly packs a punch in terms of functionality. It features a built-in tri-fold garment folder to protect your suits from wrinkles, a built-in TSA-approved lock for added security, and a SmartLink strap that allows you to transport two bags as one. 

I’m sure you’ll want as much protection as you can get for a piece of luggage this pricey! And guess what, Briggs and Riley delivers! The exterior is constructed with ballistic nylon fabric , which shields and repels liquids, stains, and everyday wear and tears. The suitcase is also fitted with a hybrid fiberglass frame which provides additional support for durability and flexibility. This means you can rest assured that it’s not going to become flimsy or dented, just because you’ve packed a little too much in your case! 

One of the things that set the Briggs and Riley Baseline Spinner luggage apart from its rivals is that has a   CX expansion system , giving you a 34% increase in storage capacity. This expansion provides you with a ton more packing space for those essential vacation outfits and souvenirs!

The high price of this quality luggage is by far its worst drawback. However, if you’re seeking to spend money on one of the best pieces of luggage for international travel, this bag is unquestionably a solid contender and, in my opinion, worth the money. 

• CX expansion system for more room inside
• Water and stain resistance
• Strong and durable frame

Very expensive

7. Best luggage under $100: AmazonBasics 21-inch Hardside Spinner

The AmazonBasics 21-inch Hard sided luggage is a great choice for international travel because it is both affordable and durable. I’ll outline why I believe this suitcase is best for international travel in the paragraphs that follow.

First and foremost, its hard side exterior helps to protect your belongings from rough handling and rough conditions. As a result, it will be able to protect your possessions from getting crushed whether you are on lengthy flights or traveling by bus or train.

Despite not being the highest quality bag on the market, many customers and reviewers, including Carissa Rawson of ThePointsGuy , have successfully used the Amazon Basic case for up to 10 trips! And with  4.6-star ratings and over  30,000 reviews  on Amazon, you can depend on this bag to last whether you’re a frequent traveler or only take the occasional trip.

Moreover, even when it is filled, this bag is quite simple to move through congested airports and streets thanks to its four double-spinning wheels . Even the extendable handle locks into place when it is not in use.

One of the standout features of this suitcase is its 21-inch size, which is the perfect size for a carry-on bag that satisfies most airlines’ size requirements. You may simply bring it on board with you.

I appreciate how well-organized this bag is as well. A fully lined interior, three zippered compartments, and dividers inside this best international luggage make it simple to organize and separate your clothing, toiletries, and mementos. You can also increase the luggage capacity by up to 15% with the expandable zipper . Plus, this is simply the best suitcase for international travel that is priced under $100 ! 

Well, the Amazon Basic case doesn’t have a lock. For the carry-on, this might not be an issue, but for the checked luggage, especially if you fly frequently, it’s not safe. Overall, the AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner suitcase is a dependable, affordable option for international travel that will undoubtedly satisfy your demands and make your vacation stress-free.

• Smooth-rolling spinner wheels
• Popular and well-rated

No locks on the suitcase

8. Most durable: Away The Large: Aluminum Edition

The Away Large: Aluminium Edition is the best option if you are a frequent international traveler who needs a suitcase that will protect your stuff while also lasting for many trips. 

With The Away Large Aluminium, you are effectively buying a suitcase that comes with strong durability which is usually associated with high-end brands like  Tumi   and  Rimowa   for about half the price.  The  aluminum hard shell  makes this case nearly indestructible while still maintaining all the sleekness you expect from a reputable brand like Away!

This best luggage looks fantastic and has plenty of features to make your trip easier. The  360° spinner wheels  are a lifesaver because they roll smoothly from airports to train platforms and cobblestoned streets. And the slow-release leather handle means it’s easy to easily lift the suitcase into the car without having to worry about blisters or pains.

It’s one of the best large suitcases for international travel as it comes with a few extras like a  leather luggage tag, an interior compression system, and a clip-in pocketed panel  that makes packing a joy.

It even comes with  a water-resistant laundry bag  that’s perfect for storing your wet clothes, or dirty items, which is why I consider it one of the best suitcases for international travel. Plus, the  TSA-approved lock (and no zippers) keeps your belongings safe and secure. 

With the Away Aluminium luggage, you should expect  scratches and dents  after many trips. However, compared to the rips and cracks that can compromise the integrity of some fabric softside and polycarbonate hardshell luggage, this should not be a deal breaker if you are not too bothered by the scruffy aesthetics that a few scratches and dents leave.

Also, while the locks, handles, and wheels are of a good standard, they lack the finesse in fit and finish that you will see in premium bands such as  Rimowa   and  Tumi . But then again, you’d have to pay double the price for those carry-on suitcases.

• Durable aluminum shell exterior
• TSA-approved lock
• 360° spinner wheels
• Will show scuffs and scratches with time
• Fit and finishing are not as pristine as premium alternatives

9. Best duffel bag: YETI Crossroads Duffel Bag

The YETI Crossroads Duffel Bag 60L is my pick for the best duffel bag for cross-border travel for a number of reasons. But first, let’s start with its size. The 60L capacity is perfect for extended trips, as it provides lots of room for all of your belongings. It can accommodate enough stuff for 5-7 days of travel .

What about its interior organization? You can organize the contents of your bag as you like because the bag has two divider panels that divide it into three sections.

What if you don’t like dividers, though? Well, you can fold away the dividers to make room for a large opening with plenty of areas that make it easy to pack and unpack, while the smaller pockets are ideal for storing all of your small essentials.

I also particularly like how convenient it is to carry this duffel bag. The handle is padded, and the shoulder strap is detachable , so you can wear it on your shoulders or carry it as a duffel bag. Even better, the bag maintains its shape rather than collapsing in on itself thanks to the structural wall foam in the bag. 

What’s unique about this bag?   

The Crossroads won’t let you down whether you’re flying cross-country or hiking on foot through the backcountry. This bag is made of abrasion and water-resistant TuffSkin nylon that can withstand rough handling. It also has a TPU-coated hardshell bottom  to further shield your bag from moisture or other rough surfaces. As you never know what kind of terrain or conditions you may encounter, I think this is a handy feature to have in the best suitcase for international travel.

I should point out though that despite being advertised as a 60L bag, some customers on  Amazon  and  Yeti’s website thought the bag would be larger. I should add that this bag is too big to be considered a carry-on, so you might need to check it if you’re flying.

• Very durable and water-resistant
• Lots of storage space
• Multiple ways to carry
• Not carry-on complaint
• A bit pricey

10. Best style: LEVEL8 Textured 24” Luggage

The LEVEL8 Textured 24″ luggage is made of a high-quality material that has held up well during my travels, and I have been extremely impressed with its performance. Makrolon polycarbonate , which is lightweight and strong, is used to make the hard shell and the exterior is reinforced with waterproof protection to keep your possessions dry.

One of the standout features is its textured surface, which adds a unique touch and makes it easy to spot on the baggage carousel. Its sleek, modern design looks great and is sure to turn heads at the airport. Additionally, there are lovely color options available that are better suited for vacations or business trips. 

The polycarbonate luggage also has plenty of packing space for all of my items and several convenient pockets including two zipper pockets for small items and a useful divider in its fully lined interior.

The four spinner wheels and telescoping handle make it easy to maneuver through busy airports and hotel lobbies, while the built-in TSA – approved lock gives me the added peace of mind that my possessions will be secured wherever I go. 

Even though this bag is a catch, there are a few minor issues to take into account before buying. The first is the concern that the suitcase may eventually become dented, scraped, or scuffed, if not carefully handled. The luggage is also not expandable and is fairly heavy. Overall, it has exceeded my expectations in terms of both function and appearance, and I have no doubt it will serve me well on future trips. 

• Good maneuverability
• Water-resistant
• Strong exterior
• Beautiful color options
• Likely to get scratched or scuffed

11. Best value: Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside

Samsonite makes another appearance in this post with the Winfield 2 Hardside suitcase. And the reason for that is simple—they create bags of good quality at reasonable prices. Since the outside is entirely made of polycarbonate , any dents or damages are minimized to the greatest extent possible while adding to the durability.

This is a feature you want to look out for when investing in a new piece of international luggage as you don’t want it to break on the first use. Additionally, the Samsonite Winfield 2 suitcase is available in a variety of colors, so you are not limited to the standard black color. 

The Samsonite Winfield 2 is an excellent choice in terms of value. It has a spacious interior with multiple pockets for organization, and a TSA-approved lock for extra protection, making it suitable for any type of trip. You won’t have trouble dragging it behind you because the wheels have a full 360° rotation spin. You can easily pull it behind you on all four wheels.

Because the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside suitcase is composed of hard plastic, its downside is that it can get fairly heavy when filled with your possessions. This could be a problem if you intend to move around with your bag while you vacation.

And the fact that some customers have voiced concerns about the recent quality of some Samsonite bags is another potential drawback of this luggage. However, it’s crucial to remember that not all customers have had this experience, so it can be worthwhile taking into account customer reviews before making a final choice.  

• Durable external material
• Choice of colors and designs

Quite heavy compared to other models on this list

12. Best lightweight: Delsey Paris Helium Aero

Although I haven’t personally used the Delsey Paris Helium Aero luggage, I can offer a basic assessment based on its specifications and user testimonials . From numerous reviews I’ve read online, this suitcase is said to be one of the most durable luggage pieces in the market, yet it’s remarkably lightweight at the same time. It’s why it’s deserving of a spot on this list of best luggage bags for international travel!

Similar to the Samsonite suitcases, the Delsey Paris Helium Aero is made from 100% polycarbonate which means that it has excellent durability and strength against everyday wear and tear. And because of its lightweight design, it is simpler to lift and move around, while the interior is equipped with two large internal compartments, complete with numerous pockets that make packing smaller items much easier.  

The expansion capability of the Paris Helium Aero, which enables you to load additional stuff without going over weight constraints, is one of its key advantages. Along with many other useful features, the suitcase boasts a strong handle, easy-gliding wheels, and a 3-dial integrated TSA-approved lock.

A negative review about the Paris Helium Aero suitcase is that it only comes with a two-year warranty which, compared to all the other models on this list of best suitcases for travel, is quite subpar.

Of course, you hope that you’ll never have to use the warranty on your suitcase anyway, but if it does break after the warranty expires, it means that you won’t be liable to claim a new one or to get your current one fixed. Despite that, this suitcase proves to be one of the most durable and strong luggage pieces on the market, without compromising on its lightweight status.

• Lightweight
• Durable hard shell case
• Affordable price

Only 2-year warranty

13. Best multipurpose: Matein Rolling Pack

Due to its adaptability, I believe the MATEIN Rolling Backpack is a terrific option for trips abroad because it combines the convenience of a rolling suitcase with the versatility of a backpack.

As a result, you may quickly switch between rolling it behind you or carrying it on your back, depending on the terrain and your preferences.

Durability is another benefit of the MATEIN Rolling Backpack. 

It is constructed from polyester fabric that is strong enough to resist heavy use and lengthy flights. Your possessions will stay dry even if you get caught in a splash, rain, or snow since the exterior and bottom of the bag are water-resistant . And as you may have noticed, I tend to look out for lockable zippers, and this particular bag doesn’t disappoint in this regard.

The Matein’s large 45L capacity and several sections make it simple to manage your items. For instance, there is a sizable main compartment for clothing, as well as a front compartment with pockets for smaller essentials like your passport and boarding card.

Additionally, you get a built-in separate laptop pocket for your technology and two side pockets ideal for water bottles or snacks. Plus, the back panel of this best suitcase for travel is padded so it won’t poke into your back, and the straps are adjustable so you can fine-tune the fit.

Some Amazon reviewers , however, complained that the pack is too heavy to wear on the back when fully loaded. Therefore, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to use it as a backpack for long. Remember that this inexpensive bag is not the strongest piece of luggage for international travel, and most likely won’t survive more than a year or two if you use it frequently.

• Very affordable
• 2 in 1 wheels backpack
• Comfortable and versatile
• Lockable zippers for security
• Fits laptops up to 17”
• Not for heavy use
• Can get big and bulky when worn as a backpack

14. Best for adventure travel: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

For those who enjoy venturing off the usual road, the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel is the ideal carry because it is extremely sturdy and can handle all types of weather and terrain. Your stuff will stay dry no matter what Mother Nature throws at you because the duffel is constructed from 100% recycled polyester material and features a waterproof TPU laminate .

The 55L carrying capacity of this bag, which has enough room for a week’s worth of clothes, is commended by users for its spaciousness. The interior also features zipped pockets for your passport or wallet, and there are loops on the outside that you may use to connect other items like fishing rods or hiking poles.  

What’s unique about this bag?    The Black Hole can be carried by the handles as a duffel bag or as a backpack through airports or on long hikes.  Best of all? It is thankfully crafted with p added shoulder straps  and a   fully adjustable harness to keep your shoulders happy, which is very important in bags for traveling abroad.

Many people seem to love this duffel bag, but the main complaint is that it’s just too  huge . Others find it inconvenient to carry around because it’s so heavy and doesn’t fit into a small space, like an airplane overhead bin. All in all, the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel is an excellent backpack for adventure travel since it is reliable, and you can feel good about using an environmentally friendly bag .

• Different carrying style
• Eco-friendly
• Some say this 55L bag is too big

15. Best suiter luggage: Vocier C38 luggage

The Vocier C38 luggage is the best option for those who need to travel with a suit but don’t want the hassle of a traditional suit bag. This innovative piece of luggage has a  built-in suiter compartment  that keeps your suits and dresses looking their best, no matter how long you’re on the road. Thanks to its built-in garment folder, you won’t have to worry about  folds or wrinkles !

But the Vocier C38 is more than just a suiter suitcase; it’s also incredibly roomy. It can  fit 3-4 days of clothes, shoes, toiletries, or other personal items you may need on the go.

And because this best international travel luggage is made from a  water & water-water-abrasion-resistant  nylon Hybrid shell with YKK zippers and Italian leather handles, it’s very durable. Let me just say it-this is not a piece of luggage that’s going to fall apart after a few uses. 

Its  minimalist design  is perfect for business travelers who want to make a good impression, and its understated elegance will never go out of style! Plus, its two sturdy wheels make it a dream to wheel around – no more struggling with heavy baggage!

The drawbacks of the Vocier suitcase are that it’s currently only available in Europe, and is expensive.

• Elegant and mimalistic
• Built-in suiter compartment
• Water and abrasion-resistant

How to choose the best luggage for international travel

When buying a piece of luggage that you wish to use for international trips, from my experience (and extensive research), there are 6 things I would recommend for you to keep in mind as you deliberate on which bag to purchase.

• the type of bag;
• type of wheels- 2-wheels vs 4-wheels, and
• the material & quality of the bag.

Choose the right luggage size

The size of your bag should match how long and what kind of trips you usually take.

If you mostly do short trips , like business or weekend getaways, a small suitcase or carry-on should do the trick. But if you’re the type who goes on long vacations that last for weeks or you need to pack a bunch of bulky clothes for rainy weather, then it’s time to think big and get yourself a large suitcase that you can check in at the airport.

The second reason why size matters has to do with airline restrictions on luggage.

You will want to make sure that your bag is the acceptable size that’s permitted on international airlines.

Below is our recommended luggage size guide:

• Carry-on size for international travel : For carry-ons in the U.S., aim for 22″ x 9″ x 14″ or less. International budget airlines often require even smaller carry-ons, like 21″. For example, Air Canada only accepts 5 x 15.5 x 9 inches (a total of 46 linear inches).
• Checked luggage size for international travel : For checked luggage, keep the total dimensions (height + width + length) under 62 inches to avoid being labeled as oversized.

Remember, Airlines have different size and weight rules, so always check their website. Also, watch out for baggage fees – knowing them can help you choose the right-sized bag and discover if there are free carry-on or checked luggage options .

Related: Carry-on Luggage Rules You Need to Know Before You Fly 

Suitcase, backpack, or duffel bag?

When choosing luggage for international travel, you have different options: suitcase, backpack, duffel bag, or rolling duffel/pack. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Great for long-distance travel.
• Come with convenient rolling wheels.
• Hard shell or strong fabric for protection.
• Good for spine health.
• Organized packing capacity.
• Versatile for various settings, even outdoor adventures like hiking.
• Hands-free transport
• Lots of pockets and compartments.
• Comfortable features like padded straps.
• Travel-friendly features like laptop compartments.

Duffel Bags:

• Offer more space than backpacks.
• Ideal for extended trips or packing lots of gear.
• Easy to carry with padded handles and straps.
• Flexible and can fit into tight spaces.
• Quick to pack and unpack.

Rolling Duffels/Backpacks:

• Combine the best of both worlds.
• Have wheels for easy rolling and carrying straps for flexibility.
• Great for diverse terrain and generous packing space.

Related: Is it safe to check a backpack?  

Related: Can I Bring a Duffel Bag as a Personal Item?

2-wheels vs 4-wheels

Which is better- two-wheel or four-wheel luggage?

It ultimately comes down to your personal preference, but I would always recommend a four-wheeled suitcase as opposed to a two-wheel one. This is because I find suitcases with four wheels much easier to pull along as they usually glide smoothly alongside me.

Whereas a two-wheeled suitcase has to be dragged along behind me and I find this much more uncomfortable. Plus, for international travel, you’ll be dealing more with smooth airport floors, so  four spinner wheels  are perfect.

However, if you’re mostly going to be using your luggage on cobblestone streets, train tracks, or on more rugged surfaces, then I’d recommend opting for  2 wheels . The added stability will make maneuvering your suitcase much easier.   

Material & durability

Before you buy any luggage, it’s important to make sure it’s well-made and can handle rough treatment, especially if you’ll be checking it. The key is choosing the right materials:

For hard-shell luggage, opt for those made from aluminum or sturdy polycarbonate . These materials are tough, waterproof, and resistant to cracks and dents, making them more durable than ABS, polypropylene, or ABS/PC blends.

For soft-side luggage, look for materials like nylon , Cordura , and ballistic nylon . These fabrics are exceptionally strong and better at resisting tears and abrasion compared to polyester, canvas, or oxford cloth.

If you’re undecided between hard-sided and soft-sided luggage, I have outlined this guideline to help you decide:

Choose Hard-Sided Luggage If :

• You want better protection for your belongings.
• Hardshell cases are more durable and can survive rough handling.
• They are more water-resistant and less likely to be ripped open.

Choose Soft-Sided Luggage If:

• You want flexibility to pack more items.
• Softside luggage is lighter and can fit more items, making it great for overpackers.
• It’s easy to squeeze into small spaces like airplane overhead bins or car trunks.

Which brand of luggage is the most durable?

If I have to pick the brand of luggage that is the most durable, I’ll go with Pelican . This brand is notable for making very quality travel bags you can trust to handle the wear and tear of travel as well as the bumps, banging, and related abuses bags can get. And with a  lifetime guarantee , you know they’ll either repair or replace a damaged bag for you, giving you the needed peace of mind. Other top-ranking durable brands to consider include Samsonite , Delsey , TravelPro , Away , and Rimowa .  

What is the maximum weight of luggage for international flights?

In my research of different airlines, I found that the limit of the weight and size of each checked bag for international flights is normally 50 pounds and under 62 linear inches  (height + width + depth). The only way you can be certain of the airline’s weight limit—or even the existence of one—is to check with the airline you’re taking. 

What if my luggage is 1kg overweight?

Even though airlines can get pretty stingy around the amount of weight you can bring on board, I still think you can get away with having to pay for an overweight fee if your luggage is only 1 kilogram overweight. That said, I still advise you to try as much as possible to keep your best travel bags for international travel under the weight restriction recommended by the airline you intend to travel with.

What size checked luggage is allowed on international flights?

The standard checked luggage size on international flights wavers around 27 x 21 x 14 inches , and should not be longer than 62 linear inches (length + width + depth). Keep in mind that the wheels and handles of the luggage are included in this measurement. Again, international airlines have different restrictions for carry-on and checked luggage, so I advise you to check with your airline first to get their exact requirements.

Are hard shell or soft shell suitcases best?

I favor hardshell bags that are made with quality materials like polycarbonate or aluminum over soft-sided bags. Yes, they can be heavier, and are more prone to scratches when compared to bags made with fabrics, but wow, is it worth it! This does not imply, however, that soft luggage is not suitable for foreign travel. They are fantastic, and I appreciate how readily they can accommodate additional goods, fit into tight spaces when you need to store them, and often have exterior pockets. You can even cheat a little bit by squeezing souvenirs and keepsakes into a softshell bag. The important thing here is that you go for a bag that has good reviews and all the useful features you want in a travel bag. 

What is not allowed in checked baggage for international flights?

There are restricted items that are generally not allowed in checked baggage on international flights, primarily for safety reasons. They include the following: lithium batteries, flammable items, explosives, matches, pressure containers, poisons, infectious materials, magnetic materials, radioactive materials, illegal drugs, marijuana, etc.

Can you fit more in a soft or hard suitcase?

You can fit more into a soft-sided suitcase than hard-side luggage. Softside cases are more flexible and can compress to give more room for stuffing more items because of the malleable fabric it is made of.

Should I put locks on my checked luggage?

While there are varying takes on this matter on forums like Reddit , Quora , and Fodor.com, I think that you should put locks on your checked luggage because it provides a level of security for your belongings. I agree that locks are not 100% foolproof and they sure won’t stop a determined thief. I however know that it goes a long way in reducing the chances of having my items misplaced or stolen, especially where I can’t keep an eye on my bag. 

Wheels (Two-wheel vs Spinner)

Which is better- two-wheel or four-wheel luggage? It ultimately comes down to your personal preference, but I would always recommend a four-wheeled suitcase as opposed to a two-wheel one. This is because I find suitcases with four wheels much easier to pull along as they usually glide smoothly alongside me. Whereas a two-wheeled suitcase has to be dragged along behind me and I find this much more uncomfortable. Plus, for international travel, you’ll be dealing more with smooth airport floors, so  four spinner wheels  are perfect. However, if you’re mostly going to be using your luggage on cobblestone streets, train tracks, or on more rugged surfaces, then I’d recommend opting for  2 wheels. The added stability will make maneuvering your suitcase much easier.  

How should I pack for an international trip?

Bottom line.

If you’re like me when shopping for luggage for traveling abroad, you want a bag that’s good quality, has great features, and gets good reviews. I mean, who wants to keep buying new luggage after every two trips? The good thing is that if you take a closer look, you’ll find that these 15 pieces of luggage meet all these criteria.

Oh, and before we wrap up, feel free to drop your questions, suggestions, and your travel experiences in the comments!

Related:  Ultimate Guide to Checked Luggage   Related:   The Ultimate Guide to Carry-on Luggage

Why You Should Trust Travelccessories

If you’re looking for trustworthy guidance on travel accessories, you can count on Travelccessories. Femi, an expert in travel gear, and our team have put together a comprehensive review that draws on our hands-on testing, extensive research on reputable brands, careful examination of product manuals and customer feedback, and evaluation of numerous luggage models.

We specifically looked for bags with robust construction, exceptional features, and high ratings from real users. And most importantly, our team consists of experts who do not accept payment for reviews and are committed to providing honest and thorough information to help you make informed decisions when choosing the right luggage.  

Also, this article is not sponsored in any way by any company. These products have been independently selected by myself and my team. And the only thing I receive is a small commission from our affiliate program if you buy any of them through the links and buttons on this page. It doesn’t cost you a penny. But it really helps me out as this money goes to paying for maintaining the website, editing software, my time, team and everything else that goes into preparing this post.

Wole Femi Asaolu

22 thoughts on “15 best luggage for international travel in 2023”.

Hey thank you for the awesome review!  There are some decent looking luggage carriers on this list.  However, I, much like yourself, think the best one is the one that you have top rated, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 29” Expandable Spinner.  I love how this one looks honestly!  It looks sturdy, and it has a lot of space. I also like that not only is it water resistant, it is also stain resistant!

You are welcome, and thanks for your contribution.

I’m not surprised you share my judgment in rating the Travelpro Maxlite 5 29” Expandable Spinner the best in the pack; the luggage is rather remarkable:)

Before I go I thought to let you know that I publish an article on a variety of travel accessories every week. If you found this post enlightening and would like to see future posts like it, you can subscribe to future posts via the website or follow me on facebook .

Samsonite Winston 2 hard side is my pick from the listing here and I’d still pick it over again if I still have the option to handpick again. Thank you so much for sharing all these luggage  for international travels. They all look excellent with good features but then, they ain’t enough to make me overlook my pick

Hey Rodarrick,

I see you are a big fan of the Samsonite Winston 2 🙂 

And I can’t fault you for that. Samsonite are a solid brand when it comes to suitcases and when we consider how affordable the Winston 2 is, I can see why you are not bulging lol

All the same, thanks for your contribution – really appreciate it.

PS. I publish similar insights on a variety of travel accessories like this every week. If you would like to see future posts, you can follow me on  facebook  or you can subscribe directly via the  website .

I haven’t gone on a trip for a long time. It has been about a year since the last trip. For long distances traveling, I prefer suitcases, especially for people with small children. If you are traveling with children, you need to prepare many things. I happen to look for a suitcase. Thanks for your sharing.

Thank you for your comment – I appreciate your view; suitcases are one of those things that you may not use often. However, when you need to use one, you want to know that you have something decent that will serve you well – especially where children are involved. If I may ask how many children do you have? Must be tricky when going on a long haul flight:)?

Hi, I found your article very useful and informative. I love travelling and I always look for quality suitcases. You provided the pros and cons of different suitcases which helps me a lot after reading your in-depth article. I like the Samsonite Omni PC hard side spinner large checked. It’s scratch resistant and comes with a TSA lock for added security.   Samsonite Winfield 2 is very stylish and good value for money .

Thanks for sharing the list and reviews of the top 9 best luggage for international travel in 2019 .

You are welcome – and thanks for the feedback.  

I’m pleased the article offers you some insights into decent suitcase options. Most people who opt for the Samsonite Omni are always pleased with the luggage so I think you will find it to be a good investment if you buy it one day.

PS. I publish similar insights on a variety of travel accessories like this every week. If you would like to see future posts, you can follow me on  facebook ,  or you can subscribe directly via the  website .  

Hi Femi, your article has all the information I would need to decide on my next purchase for travel. I don’t travel a lot, but all travel for me is international because I live on an island. My luggage has to be durable and suit my needs every trip. I don’t want a backpack nor a Duffel type. I prefer semi soft outsides and dark colors. Based on the details you have presented I would go for the Briggs and Riley or the Travel pro Maxlite, with the Maxlite having the edge. It is so elegant. Thank you for all this information. I need to start planning for my next trip.

Thank you for commenting. 

I appreciate your preference and I can almost identify with you as I live on an island too – depending on how you see it the UK where I live is an island and I always need a suitcase when I’m off to Europe:)

All the best with you packing:)

I don’t travel a lot on a daily basis but I do have to go on long trips every month. I have been using a backup for years because it is so convenient for me but I think it is time to change so I have landed on your blog at the right time. Maxlite is something that I like from your list, spinning wheels have become essential these days when you have to change terminals in the airport.

I will bookmark Maxlite and Osprey Sojourn from this list for the time when I will have to carry a lot of languages, like a foreign trip or something. But what I love the most from this list is Fairview, a perfect backpack for people like me. I don’t mind carrying weight on my back, I want my hands to be free while traveling. However, 70L is a little too much for my need do we have the option of adjusting the size or do you have another recommendation for me?

Thanks for stopping by to comment on my post. It’s good to see that you fancy a couple of options.

Regarding your question – I would suggest you purchase a small backpack instead, and either of these two are my recommendations:  Osprey Farpoint 40L Men’s Travel Backpack (affiliate link) or Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack (45L).

The Tortuga Outbreaker is a fav of mine simply for the fact that the folks behind the brand are actually avid backpackers themselves so they know exactly what men need and want when it comes to a vast range of backpacks for travelling. That said the Outbreaker can sometimes come across as over-engineered plus it’s quite dear in price. You can read my detailed review of it here.

Osprey Farpoint 40L on the other is not as dear as the Tortuga but I believe it will serve you well. I haven’t done a review of it but there are lots of  reviews on Amazon for you to see that most people who buy it are happy.  

Hope that helps – any further questions and you can give me a shout.

Thanks a lot for sharing with us such an amazing article about best luggage for international travel. 

I believe that every traveler should read this article and choose the best luggage for travel. On my last trip I had problems with luggage because it was very small and I couldn’t buy many souvenirs. My favorite is the Osprey Packs Sojourn Wheeled Luggage which is also very cheap (only $ 178.53). For me it is a great advantage that it can be carried like a backpack or wheeled.I like to walk and visit many museums when i travel in different countries. With this luggage I could do this very easily. Thanks again and wish you all the best.

Hey Nimrod,

Thanks for stopping by to comment – I wanted to offer a variety as I know there will be folks you want their hands to be free, who are happy to carry their luggage on their back but would also like the option to wheel if they choose –  hence the Osprey Packs Sojourn.

I just got a call that I’ll be going to Germany in a few months and must buy a new luggage. According to my sources, we cannot take a large suitcase. I’m supposed to buy a small one and pack a small amount of clothes though it’ll e two weeks! I find it really hard though. However, I’m sure with these luggages, I’ll be able to. 

I’m glad I could be of help – best wishes with your trip.

I am so glad I found your article! Besides being very well written, I learned some important things. I’ve never traveled by plane before, so I didn’t know about weight restrictions! I definitely have more research to do before my first overseas trip! With all your handy luggage reviews, I believe the Delsey Paris Helium Aero is the one for me. It’s both stylish and affordable, plus not too heavy. My trip is planned for about six months from now. I didn’t realize how much I didn’t know. Thank you so much for your research and posting!

Yes, there a ton of info on luggage out there – it can be overwhelming:) Glad I could be of help.

Do let me know if you have any travel accessories related questions; I’d be happy to answer any questions or point you to the relevant resource.

Thanks for your contribution.

Femi PS. I publish similar insights on a variety of travel accessories like this every week. If you would like to see future posts, you can follow me on  facebook  or you can subscribe directly via the  website .

Femi, the Travelpro Maxlite pro is a great suitcase at affordable price and I just checked that it also comes with free shipping. Its been years since I upgraded my luggage and I travel a couple of times a year. I also like the fact that it has four wheels and a lifetime warranty. Your tips on proper caring of luggage is very helpful. Keeping it clean and using an old toothbrush to clean the wheels is a great tip! Overpacking is another mistake I often make but I’ll watch out for that henceforth.

Thank you for taking the time to read the entire post – at least you must have browsed to the very end for you to see the narrative on taking care of them:)

Yes, it’s important to look after the suitcases. While I have shortlisted really quality suitcases, proper care will ensure your ‘investment’ is for the long term – because they are an investment after all!

Wow Femi, these suitcases are outstanding! so much information about each and everyone of them, long gone are the days where you had to have someone sit on your suitcase to get it as flat as possible so you could zip it up! The strength and longevity of these suitcases are a plus, I can’t tell you how often have our suitcases broken, or got ripped and those dreaded zips!!! Any one of these that is expandable and on spinners would do me! When I viewed the demo on how this works, it’s so easy peasy!!! I also have to say your post is like an ‘Aladins cave’, you can’t help but delve deeper and deeper to see what other goodies you have to offer!!! A very thorough article and love how one can find destinations and how within each one there is so much to discover! Trully an eye opener! Keep up this so useful and very helpful information, this will help many who want to upgrade and in an intelligent way. Thanks for sharing. Julia.

This is Amanda from Quanzhou Yingkai Bags, which is specialized in bags manufacture and export.

Do you have the plan to customize some bags?We have our own bag factory, and we can make the bags according to your requirements.

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Enforcement at the Airport

Learn about your rights when encountering law enforcement at the airport.

• Can Border Agents Search Your Electronic Devices?
• What to do if you think you're on the No Fly List?
• What to do when encountering law enforcement

What types of law enforcement officers could I encounter when entering or leaving the United States?

At the border, you are likely to encounter Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers, and you may encounter Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents. HSI is part of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

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If I am entering the U.S. with valid travel papers, can law enforcement officers stop and search me?

Generally, customs officers may stop people at the border to determine whether they are admissible to the United States, and they may search people’s belongings for contraband. This is true even if there is nothing suspicious about you or your luggage. The government believes this authority to search without individualized suspicion extends to searches of electronic devices such as laptops and cell phones, but that is a contested legal issue. Officers may not select you for a personal search or secondary inspection based on your religion, race, national origin, gender, ethnicity, or political beliefs.

Can border officers ask questions about my immigration status?

Customs officers have the authority to ask your immigration status in order to determine whether you have the right to enter the country. If you are a U.S. citizen, you need only answer questions establishing your identity and citizenship, although refusing to answer routine questions about the nature and purpose of your travel could result in delay and/or further inspection. If you are a lawful permanent resident (LPR) who has maintained your status, you only have to answer questions establishing your identity and permanent residency. Refusal to answer other questions will likely cause delay, but officials may not deny you entry into the United States for failure to answer other questions. If you are a non-citizen visa holder or visitor, you may be denied entry into the United States if you refuse to answer officers’ questions. Officers may not select you for questioning based on your religion, race, national origin, gender, ethnicity, or political beliefs. If you are told you cannot enter the country and you fear you might be persecuted or tortured if you are sent back to the country from which you traveled, you should tell the customs officer about your fear and ask for asylum.

Can U.S. customs officers ask questions about my religious beliefs and practices or political opinions?

Religious and political beliefs and associations are protected by the First Amendment. Customs officers have sometimes asked travelers about their religious affiliation, religious practices, association with religious institutions, and political opinions. The travelers targeted for such questioning have often been Muslim. Questioning individuals about their religious and political beliefs, associations, and practices can infringe upon rights guaranteed by the Constitution and federal law — these rights are not surrendered at the border. If you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, you do not have to answer questions about your religious beliefs and practices or political opinions, and you cannot be denied entry to the United States for declining to answer such questions. If customs officers persist in asking you such questions, you can request to see a supervisor. If you are a non-citizen visa holder or visitor, you may decline to answer general questions about your religious beliefs and political opinions, but doing so may lead to delay or additional questioning, or possibly denial of your entry into the country. If you are told you cannot enter the country and you fear you might be persecuted or tortured if you are sent back to the country from which you traveled, you should tell the customs officer about your fear and ask for asylum.

Do I have to provide my fingerprints when entering the country?

All visitors and lawful permanent residents are fingerprinted on entry into the United States from abroad.

If I am selected for a longer interview when I am coming into the United States, what can I do?

Your legal status in the country may inform what you decide to do if you are selected for longer questioning when entering the United States. U.S. citizens have the right to enter the United States, so if you are a U.S. citizen and the officers’ questions become intrusive, you can decline to answer those questions, but you should be aware that doing so may result in delay and/or further inspection. The same is true for lawful permanent residents: you generally cannot be denied entry to the United States, but declining to answer questions may result in delay or further inspection. Refusal by non-citizen visa holders and visitors to answer questions may result in denial of entry.

If the officers’ questions become intrusive or improper, you should complain and ask to speak to a supervisor. (This goes for citizens, lawful permanent residents, or non-citizen visa holders and visitors.) Although CBP takes the position that you are not entitled to an attorney during primary and secondary inspection, we encourage you to have the telephone number of an attorney or legal services organization with you and ask to contact them if you feel your rights are being violated or if you have been detained for an unusually long period. For anyone attempting to enter the United States, if a customs officer or border agent informs you that you are under arrest, or if it becomes clear that he or she suspects you have committed a crime, you should ask to speak to a lawyer before answering any further questions — and if you wish to exercise your right to remain silent, you should say so out loud.

Do I have to provide my laptop passwords or unlock my mobile phone for law enforcement officers at the border?

Customs officers have sometimes asked travelers to provide their laptop passwords or unlock their mobile phones when they are entering or leaving the United States. Your legal status in the country may inform what you decide to do if you’re asked for a password to unlock your device. U.S. citizens cannot be denied entry to the United States for refusing to provide passwords or unlocking devices. Refusal to do so might lead to delay, additional questioning, and/or officers seizing your device for further inspection. The same should be true for those who have previously been admitted to the U.S. as lawful permanent residents and have maintained their status — their green cards can’t be revoked without a hearing before an immigration judge. Visa holders and tourists from visa waiver countries, however, run the risk of being denied entry if they refuse to provide a password, and they should consider that risk before deciding how to proceed. If an officer searches and/or confiscates your laptop or cell phone, get a receipt for your property.

For more advice on electronic device searches at the border, click here: https://www.aclu.org/blog/free-future/can-border-agents-search-your-electronic-devices-its-complicated

What if I am selected for a strip search at the border?

A strip search at the border is not a routine search. It must be supported by “reasonable suspicion” and must be done in a private area.

What types of law enforcement officers and other government officials could I encounter during the security screening process at the airport?

At airports, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers conduct security screenings.  Most TSA officers are not commissioned law enforcement officers, and their role is to conduct screening of passengers, baggage and cargo. TSA screeners can search you and your baggage at screening checkpoints, but they cannot arrest you. Other law enforcement officers, such as airport police, are present at airports.

Can my bags or I be searched after going through metal detectors with no problem or after security sees that my bags do not contain a weapon?

Yes. Even if the initial screening of your bags by TSA reveals nothing suspicious, the screeners have the authority to conduct a further search of you or your bags. Screeners may not select you for a personal search or secondary inspection based on your religion, race, national origin, gender, ethnicity, or political beliefs.

What if I wear a religious head covering and I am selected by airport security officials for additional screening?

You have the right to wear your religious head covering. You should assert your right to wear your religious head covering if asked to remove it before going through airport security screening. If an alarm goes off, however, airport security officers may request additional screening. They may then conduct a pat-down of your religious head covering or ask you to remove it. You have the right to request that the pat-down or removal be conducted by a person of your gender and that it occurs in a private area.

If you do not want the TSA officer to touch your religious head covering, you must refuse and say that you would prefer to pat down your own religious head covering. You will then be taken aside, and a TSA officer will supervise you as you pat down your religious head covering. After the pat-down, the TSA officer may rub your hands with a small cotton cloth and place it in a machine to test for chemical residue. If you pass this chemical residue test, you should be allowed to proceed to your flight. If the TSA officer insists on the removal of your religious head covering, you have a right to ask that it be done in a private area. Officers may not conduct additional screening based solely on your race, national origin, religion, gender, ethnicity, or political beliefs.

What if I am traveling with children?

You may opt your children out of an airport scan. However, there is no exemption for children from the pat-down search. Children under 13 years old may leave their shoes, light jackets, and headwear on during screening.

What if I am traveling with breast milk or formula?

Parents and caregivers flying with and without children are permitted to bring breast milk and formula (and ice packs or other accessories required to cool the breast milk or formula) in quantities greater than three ounces, as long as you notify the officers about the items at the security checkpoint. When carrying breast milk or formula through the checkpoint, they will be inspected. TSA officials may test the liquids for explosives. TSA officials may ask you to open the containers during the screening process. Breast milk and formula, along with other liquids and gels, may also be packed in your luggage and checked with your airline.

If I am on an airplane, can an airline employee interrogate me or ask me to get off the plane?

An airline pilot may refuse to fly a passenger if s/he reasonably believes, based on observation, that the passenger is a threat to flight safety. A pilot may not, however, question you or refuse to allow you on a flight because of biased stereotypes, including any based on your religion, race, national origin, gender, ethnicity, or political beliefs.

What do I do if I am questioned by law enforcement officers every time I travel by air and I believe I am on a “no-fly” or other “national security” list?

If you believe you are mistakenly on a list, you should contact the TSA and file an inquiry using the  Traveler Redress Inquiry Program . More information is available  here . If you think there may be some reason for why you have been placed on a list, you should seek the advice of an attorney.

Referral Contact Information

American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC)

American Immigration Law Foundation (AILF)

American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)

Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)

Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF)

National Lawyers Guild (NLG)

National Immigration Law Center (NILC)

NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund (NAACP LDF)

National Immigration Project

Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund (PRLDEF)

South Asian American Leaders of Tomorrow (SAALT)

U.S. Commission on Civil Rights (UCCR)

Other Know Your Rights Issues

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What To Pack For Canada? Important List of Things To Carry as a New Immigrant

What To Pack For Canada From India or any Country?

Packing bags is always stressful as well as an exciting job because it leads to travel to different destinations from a regular boring location. It is more hectic if you are migrating to Canada and you know you cannot return to pick up anything you left behind. 😛

Hence, it is better to make a checklist before coming or migrating to Canada as a Permanent Resident.

In this complete “What to pack for Canada?” guide, you will know :

• What to pack in Clothes?
• What to carry in a Handbag?
• What to carry in the Stationary?

What medicines with a prescription you should carry?

• What are the important things to carry in Kitchen Items?

What to pack for Kids / Babies?

• What documents you should carry?
• Other Miscellaneous but IMPORTANT items to Carry

Without taking much time, Let’s start.

Open your notepads and Word files or take your notebook with you and start making a Canada immigration packing list (the most important things that I took with us) which you are placing in your bags.

List of Important Things To Carry For Canada as a Permanent Resident

Let’s proceed toward the detailed guide to the Canada immigration packing list :

Luggage bags :

The very first thing to buy big-big bags according to the baggage allowance in the airways for which you have booked your tickets.

Do check the dimensions and weight allowance on the airline website as well as an e-copy of tickets before purchasing bags because I know no one here is interested in paying extra charges for exceeding baggage weight or dimensions.

As some of you, people saw in the photograph taken at the airport in my last blog post “ First Landing Experience at a Canadian Airport as Permanent Resident “. We had 6 big luggage bags, 3 cabins, and 3 handbags.

After a lot of research on different bags of brands. We chose the VIP bags (Aristocrat) brand for our 6 big luggage bags as it is a trusted brand and moreover they provide 5 year on-site international warranty. Take only wheeled cabin baggage as it is convenient to carry. You can check these that we’ve picked Aristocrat Aston (latest price here) .  They worked out really well, we still have them in the original shape.

For Cabin bags, we choose these hard trolley bags (check the latest price here)

What to Pack in Clothes for Canada?

Clothes are the most space for taking stuff. Yes, it’s true you all must agree with this.

When you buy clothes in your home country and imagine that feeling of leaving your most recently bought and most loved clothes behind, I know, I feel that lol.

I am a very keen shopper in a matter of clothes, I love buying new clothes very often. It was like a heartbreaking situation when I took all the clothes from the wardrobe and put them on the bed and started picking the most important ones.

I genuinely didn’t want to leave any piece of cloth behind because all the clothes that I bought were like a piece of my heart.

Anyway, let’s focus on this most important part of packing. If you are coming in summer, do pack enough summer clothes as they are light in weight BUT if you are coming in winter do not forget to pack heavy clothes as winters are worst here.

Jackets: As winters are harsh all over Canada. So that doesn’t matter what is your landing destination in Canada.

Pack at least 2 heavy jackets and If you are coming in winter, wear the heaviest jacket instead of packing to manage the weight and space of your bags.

If you already have really heavy jackets then it’s perfect, But in case you don’t then get at least 2 heavy jackets (Heavy means really warm jackets that can keep you warm in -20. I found great quality jackets at ZARA for my child, husband, and myself and bought them from there. (Bought one-one for each of us). You can also take a look there and H&M.

If you don’t wanna spend money there, heavy parkas are available here in Canada at all the Walmart stores you can buy from here as per your need. Prices vary according to the quality, you can find the best parkas in the CAD $100-$300 price range.

Jeans: Pack at least 4-5 Jeans because you shouldn’t start spending money after landing in Canada on Jeans.

Inner / Thermals: You should pack at least 2 pairs of thermals.

Socks : Pack 5-6 pairs of woollen socks.

Caps: Minimum 2 Woolen caps are a must.

Gloves: 1 pair of good warm gloves should be good enough.

Mufflers: Must pack 2 pairs of woollen mufflers.

Sweaters: As per personal preference.

Hoodies / Sweatshirts: Instead of sweaters I would prefer to get 2-3 warm sweatshirts. Because mostly you will be wearing sweatshirts under your heavy Jackets.

As heating provision is everywhere in Canada, that doesn’t matter if you are landing in extremely cold weather, bring some summer clothes and T-shirts, and summer lowers because it’s pretty warm inside every building, apartment, house or condo, literally in any indoor. All the credit goes to heating systems installed everywhere which doesn’t go down at all. 🙂

MUST pack: A complete formal suit for the interview. A white shirt and formal pants.

Also, make sure your bags consist of at least one or two ethnic outfits as well. Consider it as important because in every province every society has its organizations which celebrate festivals and host cultural programs where you have to go in ethnic dress .

Pick less but very important items like belts, hanky, ties, etc.

1) One pair of formal leather shoes is a must for your job interviews.

2) Do pack a pair of good quality sports shoes because you will have to walk a lot to travel here and there and of course to save money initially when you have no job.

3) Don’t bring snowshoes from your home country because snowshoe quality is much better than any other country as Canadian snowshoes are meant to survive in -20 to -50 temperature.

4) Pack a pair of flip-flops or slippers for inside-home footwear.

As I belong to Punjab and our ethnic footwear is “Punjabi Jutti” I picked up 2 pairs of it to wear it with ethical outfits.

What to Pack in Handbag?

Alright, so this is one of the most important parts of this new immigrant packing checklist guide.

The most important items list to carry in a Handbag :

Your handbag should contain things which you need while travelling. It must contain important documents which you need to show at the immigration counter like :

1) Passports

2) COPRs or Landing Papers

3) Printed Airplane tickets

4) Passport size photographs

5) Proof of funds (Bank/Balance certificate or Bank statements)

6) Demand Drafts/Travelling Cheques

7) Photocopies / Xerox of your important documents

8) Money/Currency Exchange Receipt

Although no one checked mine you have to carry it just in case any officer asks you for any details you should have them available on the go and have them with you all the time just for security reasons.

Make sure to keep all the valuable items that you are carrying with you in your handbag.

9) Jewelry Evaluation Certificate: i f you are carrying jewelry with you, a jewelry evaluation certificate and photographs of all your Jewelry ornaments are necessary.

Now you must be wondering what does Jewelry evaluation certificate means and where to get it.

Basically, it is a certificate that you can get from any govt. authorized Jeweler. They will provide all the information on their letterhead which evaluates the weight and cost of all the jewelry items that you are carrying abroad. (I wasn’t asked about Jewelry or a certificate at the time of immigration or anywhere, But still, I got it with me to be on the safe side.)

I have heard some people didn’t get any evaluation certificate, they just took photographs on their phone of each jewelry item they were carrying and just noted them down on the paper and kept that with them for customs purposes.

I would still suggest you get it evaluated and get physical photographs and prints with you just in case, why take any risk?

10) Liquid Cash/Currency Or Money Exchange Receipt: Y ou must be carrying Liquid cash, make sure to get money exchanged receipt. A receipt is given by the authorized currency exchanging company from where you have exchanged your currency or going to exchange it.

11) Traveling Cheques or Demand draft: Well this would be the most important thing in my “ What To Pack For Canada? list” to carry with you and handle with care. It is the most convenient way to carry funds from your home country’s bank account to Canada with you.

12) Print your Hotel booking or AirBnB reservation with you.

13) Carry your Driver’s license from your home country.

14) You can also get any Forex card and load $1000-$2000 as per your requirement. Forex cards act as prepaid travel cards that you can load with any foreign currency of your choice and can use a Forex card just like a credit or debit card to pay for your expenses in your initial days after landing in Canada.

15) Phone charging lids / Phone chargers

Other important items to carry in handbags are (If you have a baby or kid) :

• Your baby’s diapers
• A small bowl with a lid
• Any baby dry meal
• A small packet of snacks
• A small activity book and colour in case your kid feels bored in flight
• Toothbrushes
• A small toothpaste
• Small face wash
• Hand sanitizer

Take all of your important medicines if you have any medical conditions and going to carry some special medicine get stock for at least 3 months or longer as per need. Please make sure you get all of them listed on the prescription from your Doctor.

Especially get a prescription for your babies / Kids if they are coming with you.

Besides those, Take all the commonly used medicines :

• Bowl Movements / Lose motions
• Any pain relief balm
• Skin burn relief balm etc.

Pack a separate kit for common medicine like fever, cold, cough, etc.

It is necessary to have all those general medicines with you because your health card takes at least 4 months to arrive from the date you will apply. So it is better to take some precautions and have common medicine with you.

Common medicine does not need any prescription. Along with medicine, add bandages, antiseptic cream, cotton, and Dettol to your medical kit.

What to Carry in Stationary?

Make a separate stationary kit and yes it is important to pick some items because even small stationery items are costly here in Canada.

Carry all the commonly used small stationery items like :

• Pens (Black+Blue+Red)
• Pencil Sharpener
• Highlighter
• Stapler (including stapler pins)
• Cello tape (Small + bigger one)
• File Folders
• Some Books for Your Kids
• Some Craft items
• A small Sizer, etc.

What Kitchen Items to add to your Canada Packing List?

Pack some important really necessary kitchen utensils from your home.

The reason is most commonly used utensils are expensive here and you would regret it later on if you didn’t pick those.

As I am from India I picked the most important utensils like :

1) Nonstick Kadai – ( check price here )

2) 3 Liter Pressure Cooker – ( check price here )

(Don’t forget to pick extra rubber, if you are using a stainless steel pressure cooker)

4) Casserole

Trust me there is no life without a pressure cooker here. Also, a pressure cooker is much more expensive here.

Better to pick it up from your home country rather than spend more bucks in Canada.

Being a Punjabi Indian, I love food, especially spicy ones. Spicy food obviously contains Indian spices.

Hence I picked up small packs of every necessary MDH spice from my home country and thanked god I picked them up as Indian spices are so expensive here which you can find in Walmart under the Indian section.

Do pack small packets of food items for the initial days and at least carry the stock for a month such as :

• Some Ready Made Dry Food (MTR Pooha, Upma, etc.)
• Maggi Noodles :p
• Dry fruits or nuts etc

Remember the weight allowance while packing. It is always good to pack very small quantities of everything.

I consider this section very much important as my kid was 3 years old, so your kids items are more necessary than ours.

If your baby still uses diapers, pick up as much as you can (at least one big pack, and carry loose diapers in your bags) as I found diapers are very costly here as compared to my home country India.

Here is the Canada packing list for babies:

• 2-3 Pairs of Thermals
• All Important warm clothes
• Knitted Sweaters
• Woollen Caps
• One or Two pairs of Ethnic Wear (as per personal preference)
• diaper changing sheet
• small bottles of baby shampoo
• Baby toothpaste
• moisturizer
• most importantly wet wipes.

Pack some cereals or baby snakes for the initial days but later on, you can find a variety of baby food in almost all the stores here, Eg. in Real Canadian Superstore, Walmart, No frills, etc.

Must pack :

• Some Small Toys

These are necessary otherwise your child will feel bored and won’t let you do any work like finding jobs online or other household work. 🙂

What documents you should Carry?

Arrange all original and important documents in files and place them carefully in your suitcase.

Now you must have already organized all the documents files and put tags/stickers on each file and name files according to the documents inside.

Most importantly pick all your original documents such as:

1) Educational documents

2) Experience certificates

3) Translated documents from your native language to English which you used during the immigration process.

4) IELTS score sheet

5) Education Evaluation (eg. WES)

6) Any special certificate you acquire in your home country

7) Any licensed certificate

8) Your Baby’s Vaccination Record

9) Any medication record or Prescription etc.

10) Put your original Driving license in your wallet as your home country’s driving license will be valid for 3 months starting from the day of landing.

One separate set of photocopies/xerox of every document should be placed in a separate file folder as getting photocopies is expensive and hectic too.

Shops are too far from every location where you can take photocopies. Photocopies can be taken in a public library at less cost than in other shops here in Canada.

Miscellaneous but still ‘IMPORTANT’ items to consider carrying :

Must pick a waterproof bag pack as you have to visit one location to another for an interview sometimes in the snow withholding a certificate file, wallet, water bottle, etc.

So it’s better to pick one good waterproof bag pack because you won’t be able to hold anything in your hand in cold conditions.

Have some hangers with you and nail-free strong sticker wall hooks as no owner will allow you to hail a single nail in the wall.

• Luggage Bag tags with name and address slip – I picked those from Amazon ( check here )
• Bag locks (Pack of 4 – check price here )
• Power bank – I picked  this PP-11 10000mAH – (check price here)
• International Travel Adapters – I picked SeCro works great so far.   (check price here)
• Makeup Essentials
• Bath and Hand towels
• Travel pillows for flight
• An umbrella
• Nail cutter

A good quality lunch box (I picked this lunch box – check here ) for yourself as well as for your kid considering a school-going kid, some swing items like threads, safety pins, and buttons .

Full-size bed sheets as mattress sizes are big here in Canada

One or Two vacuumed packed pillows check – here (open them after coming here to Canada, otherwise they will not get fitted in your suitcase)

Another thing I found really helpful after landing here was the Amazon Fire Stick (check price here) . We already had bought it earlier and picked it up with us. It won’t let you bore here especially when you have a kid at home. Just connect it with any Non-Smart TV (You can save a lot of bucks buying non-smart TV here) and enjoy unlimited streaming.

Don’t pick any heavy blanket but just pick any lightweight cover sheet (the heating system will not allow putting a heavy blanket on you).

• Moisturizer cream
• Any spiritual belongings (“Pooja ka samaan”)

What NOT to pack in your bags?

Do not pick any electronic items like :

• electric burner etc.

cause it does not work in Canada due to voltage change requirements.

Our real mess behind What to pack for Canada? 😛

A quick checklist of What to Pack when moving to Canada as PR.

Save this important Canada travel checklist.

#1. Clothes checklist

• Jackets (at least 2 heavy)
• Jeans (4-5)
• Inner/Thermals (2 pairs)
• Socks (5-6 pairs)
• Caps (2 woolen Caps)
• Gloves (1 pair)
• Mufflers (2 pairs)
• Sweaters (as per your need)
• Hoodies/Sweatshirts (2-3)
• Summer clothes (T-shirts, lowers, etc.)
• A formal Suit
• Ethnic dress
• Belts, hanky, ties, etc.

#2. Shoe checklist

• Formal leather shoes (1 pair)
• Sports Shoes
• Don’t bring (snowshoes)
• Ethnic footwear

#3. Carry-On Handbag checklist

• Airlines tickets 
• Passport size photos
• POF (proof of funds)
• DD/Travelling cheques
• Photocopies of documents
• Currency Receipt
• Jewelry Certificate
• Hotel booking photocopies
• Driving license
• Forex Cards/Masters Cards
• Phone charging lids

#4. Carry-On Handbag Checklist for Kids/Babies

• Bowl with lid
• Spoon, Sipper, Forks
• Snacks/Candies
• Books/colours
• Tooth Brush/Toothpaste/Facewash/Sanitizers

#5. Medicines

All your important commonly used medicines as mentioned above.

#6. Stationary

Pack as per your need according to the details above.

#7. Kitchen Checklist

• Small packets of sugar, salt, tea, coffee, rice, ready to eat meals as mentioned above.

#8. Kids/Babies Checklist

Pack as per your space and follow the detailed list mentioned above.

#9. Documents

#10. Check the important Miscellaneous Items list

Check my detailed VLOG :

[Please LIKE / SHARE / SUBSCRIBE]

Final Words :

Well, I tried my best to make this list for you that I found important to mention and I picked personally, But still, you would need to manage space in your bags. We were able to pick all those things because we were 3 and were allowed to take 2 bag(s) at 23kg EACH of us, Hand luggage included 12kg including check-in, handbag, and 3 cabin bags EACH of us.

So that was my list of “ What to pack for Canada? “. I believe you would get a better idea now. I hope you won’t need to find it here and there or watch a lot of videos to make your Canada travel packing checklist . 🙂

Stay connected for more latest updates and my experiences after landing in Canada. Many more important blog posts are on the way that you will find really helpful.

Thanks for reading. I wish you a Happy Journey!

[Friendly Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains some amazon affiliate links You will not be charged anything extra for your purchases by using my amazon affiliate links. I may earn a little commission. it will support me in maintaining the website expenses. ]

About The Author

Mapple Dreams

Related posts.

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SINP EOI System: How to Create SINP EOI profile? [Guide]

Which Language Assessment Test is Required for Canada PR?

13 thoughts on “what to pack for canada important list of things to carry as a new immigrant”.

this was really helpful thank i’ll be relocating in a month with fam

Hi Mam , Without certificate if nomination comes we dont get PR is it true ? Do we have to wait for 6-8 months to get certificate . And once we submit we will get PR

LET ME KNOW THE DIMENSION OF CHECKED BAGGAGE & CABIN BAGGAGE PLEASE

Really Great info. I am landing in Saskatchewan in March 2022. This will help me pack my bags.

Really useful info Sona, I start packing from tomo onwards, will reach Canada in 12 days 🙂 Super excited !!

Great, Thank you Infanta, glad to know that you found my guide helpful!

Useful info. Fortunate me I discovered your web site unintentionally, and I am surprised why this twist of fate didn’t came about earlier! I bookmarked it.

Helpful info. Thank you for sharing!

Glad to know that it helped! Thanks for your appreciation!

I’ll have to thank you for the success today

Thank you, stay connected!

Useful info

Thank You Kruti, Stay connected!

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The 15 Best Travel Tote Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Totes from Away, MZ Wallace, and Quince came highly recommended by T+L editors and travel experts.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Other Totes We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

While many travelers opt for a backpack as a trusted travel companion, we think tote bags offer similar (if not better) features for certain travelers. Tote bags are convenient for quickly accessing items like a phone or wallet since your belongings are kept closer to the body. 

It’s important to invest in a tote bag (or any piece of luggage for that matter) that fits your needs as a traveler. There are tons of different bag styles out there, so we pulled recommendations and notes from seasoned travelers and Travel + Leisure editors to crowdsource the best tote bag options from travel experts. Plenty of packable, convertible, weekender, and leather tote bags came highly recommended, and we highlighted why each bag earned praise so you can make the most informed decision whether you’re a frequent flier, road tripper, or office commuter.

Best Overall

Mz wallace deluxe tote.

The large storage capacity and efficient organization make it an excellent personal item for flying.

The laptop pocket isn’t padded.

This quilted MZ Wallace tote bag earned major points for having a spacious capacity without feeling bulky or weighted down when it’s packed full. An ideal bag for air travel, it can fit carry-on essentials while still being able to fit underneath an airplane seat, and the zippered top keeps everything safe and sound. There are tons of pockets for storing items, including a 13-inch laptop pocket (unpadded) and five other smaller pockets for lip balm, phone chargers, and wallets. Although we found this tote bag to be exceptionally lightweight, it boasts a trolley sleeve to secure the bag to a suitcase to give your shoulder a rest when needed. It also comes with a detachable shoulder strap to carry the bag as a crossbody when desired. 

This bag came highly recommended after thorough testing and the only slight inconvenience we ran into is that the tote is unstructured so if there isn’t a laptop in it, the items sag at the bottom. However, the variety of pockets help to distribute the weight, so we still think this bag is the ultimate travel companion for storing the essentials. 

The Details: 11.6 x 9.4 x 12.7 inches | Nylon, leather | Trolley sleeve | 13-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Overall, Runner-up

Quince revive nylon large tote.

It conveniently folds up for packing and is impressively lightweight.

There isn’t a top zipper. 

The Quince Revive Nylon tote bag was praised by our experts for its lightweight material and portable design for traveling. The bag is made with durable nylon, it never feels cumbersome to carry, and the fabric design makes it easy to fold up the bag to place it in a carry-on or backpack without taking up much space. With designated pockets for a laptop, water bottle, and smaller items, we love that there is a spot for both everyday and travel essentials for supreme versatility. If the tote gets dirty while traveling, you can spot-clean the nylon fabric with soap and water, and it comes in Oxford blue, olive, and black color options that easily hide wear and tear over the years. Because the tote bag doesn’t have a top zipper, it scored slightly lower than our top pick, but we still think the flexible fabric and slim design of the tote helps keep it close to your body while walking through a crowded airport or down busy streets.

The Details: 17 x 13 x 7 inches | Recycled nylon | Water resistant | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Open-top Canvas

L.l.bean boat and tote bag.

It can accommodate bulky items thanks to the wide-mouth opening.

It doesn’t have any organizational features, so you’ll want to use packing cubes or pouches.

Beach days, picnics, and road trips are the best uses for this spacious canvas tote from L.L. Bean. Made from heavyweight cotton canvas, the tote was originally designed to carry ice from a car to an ice chest back in 1944, and it still boasts the brand’s impressive 500-pound weight capacity (though we hope your travel essentials will never weigh that much). While we’d normally be wary of a travel bag without any pockets, the bag has a generous capacity, which makes it ideal for blankets, lunch boxes, shoes, or any other bulkier item needed for a day or road trip. And when it comes to durability, you can’t beat a tote bag constructed with enough reinforcement to carry over a dozen cinder blocks.

The Details: 13  x 12 x 6 inches | Cotton canvas

Best Machine-washable

Baggu duck bag.

The cotton is machine-washable, and it comes with a crossbody strap.

The top has a magnetic button closure.

Traveling can be hard on luggage, so we love that you can toss the Baggu Duck Bag in a washing machine to prolong the life of the tote. It came highly recommended after one of our team members spilled an entire burrito inside, and all it took was one rinse cycle to get it looking good as new. The canvas material is made with 65 percent recycled cotton from pre-consumer waste like old socks or T-shirts. In addition to the tote handles, the bag also comes with an adjustable crossbody strap to carry the bag over the shoulder. It has enough room to carry a laptop up to 15 inches long, and there is a small zippered pocket on the inside for a wallet or earbuds. One thing to note is that the top has a magnetic button closure instead of a zipper. 

The Details: 15.75 x 11 x 4.75 inches | Recycled cotton canvas

Best Open-top Leather

Milaner woven handbag.

It’s big enough to be an overnight bag if needed. 

There isn’t a laptop pocket.

This woven Milaner leather tote bag is the ultimate tote bag for flying, commuting, or an overnight trip. The larger size can accommodate bulky items like clothing, shoes, or a laptop, and there are two small zippered pockets for wallets and phone chargers. Thanks to the structured design of the woven Nappa, suede, or Vachetta leather, this bag is super easy to pack with travel essentials without feeling cumbersome to carry. It doesn’t have a top zipper, but it does feature a slim shape so the bag is kept close to the body. We also recommend using the dust bag it comes with when placing the bag under an airplane seat to keep the contents from spilling out or getting the bag dirty from the airplane carpet.

The Details: 20 x 14 x 3 inches | Nappa leather

Best Sustainable

Béis east to west tote.

It’s made with 100 percent recycled material. 

It only comes in two colors, and the white could get dirty quickly.

We’re big supporters of eco-friendly luggage that is still just as durable as this tote bag from T+L-loved brand, Béis. Made with 100 percent recycled polyester and recycled faux leather trim, the bag comes in simple black and white shades. There is a padded laptop pocket for laptops up to 15 inches long, two water bottle pockets, two slip pockets, and one zippered pocket so there’s a spot for everyday and travel essentials. Other helpful features for travelers include a trolley sleeve for carrying it on a suitcase, a key leash so you won’t have to dig around to unlock the door (plus you can attach an AirTag holder to it), and a zippered pocket in front. We can’t forget to mention the two lengths of tote handles and a detachable crossbody strap. 

The Details: 17.13 x 14.17 x 9.06 inches | Recycled polyester, vegan leather | 15-inch padded laptop pocket | Luggage sleeve

Best Lightweight

Longchamp tote bag.

It folds into a fraction of the original size for superior packability.

The leather straps aren’t padded.

This lightweight tote bag is ideal for both maximalist and minimalist packers since it folds into itself and can easily be stored in a larger bag without taking up valuable space. Despite the featherlight design, the bag is made with a hardy recycled polyamide canvas that can withstand the test of time. Besides the excellent portability, we love that the tote bag has a zippered top  with a large leather flap that closes over the zipper to give peace of mind that items are safely tucked away while traveling. There’s only one small zippered pocket inside the bag, which could be a slight drawback for some, but we think the packable design is well worth the lack of pockets. The bag comes in seven colors ranging from neutrals hues to bolder tones, and the leather straps, though unpadded, give the bag a chic look to complement any outfit. 

The Details: 12.2 x 11.8 x 7.5 inches | Recycled polyamide canvas, leather | Packable

Best Convertible

Caraa studio tote.

It has a convenient modular design to carry the bag as a tote or backpack.

The exterior shoe pocket can only accommodate smaller shoes.

Can’t decide between a tote or backpack? This Caraa Studio tote bag has a two-in-one design to carry it as either, offering the best of both worlds. With detachable shoulder straps, the leather tote bag can be converted to a backpack in seconds or carried over one shoulder if you’re in crowded areas like a subway or sidewalk and want to keep the bag close. Best of all, there is tons of built in storage to stay naturally organized while traveling. Our favorite features include the 17-inch laptop pocket and shoe compartment on the side of the bag to separate footwear from the rest of the main compartment. Although the pocket can only hold smaller shoes, it can be a game-changer for certain travelers. And there are eight other pockets built into the interior anti-microbial lining to store phone chargers, wallets, passports, and more when you’re en route to a destination.

The Details: 18 x 13 x 7.5 inches | Italian leather | 17-inch laptop pocket

Most Durable

Carhartt legacy east/west tote.

This bag is made to last with a sturdy design and hardy fabrics.

The ends of the zippers don’t connect to the fabric, so small items could escape.

Camping, ski trips, beach days, and other outdoor activities can sometimes speed up the wear and tear on a tote, but that’s not the case with Carhartt’s Legacy East West Tote. We’re confident this bag is built to last due to the heavy duty 600 denier polyester and DWR coating to keep the elements from seeping into the tote. After four years of our constant use while traveling and commuting, the tote earned high praise for not showing any signs of letting up on quality anytime soon. With a zipper top and several slip pockets on the interior and exterior, there are spots to store a phone, keys, and wallets safely in the bag. There are gaps on each end of the bag because the ends of the zipper aren’t sewn to the fabric, so watch out for smaller items in the bag since they could fall out. 

The Details: 16.5 x 13.5 x 7.25 inches | Polyester | Water resistant

Best for the Beach

Carve designs treasure tote bag.

Carve Designs

It's the perfect size to fit everything you need for a beach day (including small towel.)

We wish it had some small pockets for storing accessories.

Whether you’re en route to the beach on foot or airplane, this tote bag is specifically designed for tropical vacations. While this tote is essentially one large pocket (without smaller areas to store accessories or essentials), it's the perfect size to take with you to the beach and to lunch afterward without lugging too much around. It's stylish enough that light packers may even use this as their main vacation purse and, paired with the matching treasure clutch , everything you need will be kept organized and ready to go. We love the white cloud texture of the outer materials paired with the stylish brown straps that are both comfortable and durable.

The Details: 14.5 x 15 inches | Cotton

Best for the Office

Bandolier tote bag.

It has various pockets for a laptop, sunglasses, and a water bottle.

The tote straps could be more comfortable. 

A day in the office is like a mini trip, so it’s important to be organized and have plenty of space for items when you’re away from home. The Bandolier tote bag offers a spot to pack office essentials like a laptop, a water bottle, a phone charger, snacks, a wallet, and more. The laptop pocket can fit technology up to 15 inches wide, and there is a leather sunglasses sleeve to protect fragile eyewear en route to the office. There are several other zippered and slip pockets to organize smaller items or a water bottle, and the D-ring loop on the tote handle is designed to hold other Bandolier accessories like a keychain or earbud pouch. The entire bag is made with a sleek pebbled leather, including the leather tote straps, which could be more comfortable with padding. It also comes in black, brown, and gray colorways. 

The Details: 18 x 12 x 6 inches | Leather | 15-inch laptop pocket | Sunglasses pocket

Best With Shoe Compartment

Minkars weekender bag.

The bag comes with a separate shoe compartment, toiletry case, USB port, laptop pocket, and plenty of other thoughtful features for travelers.

It can get heavy when packed full.

A dupe of the iconic Béis weekender bag, this wallet-friendly version has similar features for a fraction of the price. While it’s jam-packed with helpful features for travelers, it received the highest praise for the separate compartment at the bottom of the bag that can store shoes, toiletry cases, hair tools, or any other item you want to keep separate from the main compartment. The structured bag has a wide-mouth opening and is super easy to pack thanks to the 15.6-inch laptop pocket, included toiletry case, and various other pockets for staying organized. Plus, the weekender comes with convertible straps to carry it as a tote or crossbody bag as needed, and it comes in pink, black, or cream color options.

The Details: 17 x 16.5 x 8 inches | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | Shoe compartment | Toiletry bag includes | Trolley sleeve

Best Multi-use

Dakine verge weekender tote.

It’s useful for the outdoors or traveling.

It might get heavy when it’s packed full.

This spacious tote bag from Dakine is equipped for everything from camping and beach days to trips to the office and air travel. When it comes to traveling, the bag features a padded laptop sleeve for devices up to 16 inches; a handy trolley sleeve; and a separate zippered compartment in the bottom of the bag to organize items like shoes, toiletry cases, or clothing as desired. Made with durable recycled nylon and polyester, the tote looks rugged and works well as a weekender bag for camping or for packing beach day essentials like towels and snacks. Travelers can carry the bag as a tote with the top handles or it also comes with a detachable crossbody strap.

The Details: 23.5 x 16 x 11 inches | Recycled nylon | 16-inch padded laptop pocket | Trolley sleeve

Best Organization

Troubadour carrier tote.

Troubadour 

It has tons of pockets to stay naturally organized while traveling.

The bag might be too large to fit underneath an airplane seat. 

Minimalist and practical, Troubadour’s Carrier Tote is our favorite bag for packing efficiently and staying organized on the go. The designated laptop pocket is padded and can fit devices up to 17 inches in width — the largest pocket size for laptops of all the bags recommended. In addition to the protective laptop pocket, the tote features a quick-access phone pocket; a medium-size zippered pocket for an e-reader; and several other slip pockets for items that can easily get lost at the bottom of a bag like charging cords, lip balm, and keys. The only possible downside to this sleek bag is that the 24-liter capacity and stiffer fabric makes it difficult to fit it underneath an airplane seat. 

The Details: 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches | Recycled polyester, vegan leather | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Foldable

Away the packable carryall.

It’s a very spacious tote that comes with a stuff sack to pack it away in a backpack or suitcase.

It has a flimsy shape, so small or heavy items fall to the bottom of the bag easily.

Away’s The Packable Carryall is the perfect packable tote bag to toss in a purse whether running errands or sightseeing in a city. The tote bag is incredibly spacious when it’s folded open, but it compresses down to a mere fraction of its usual size thanks to the lightweight recycled nylon material and stuff sack. Sometimes packable bags can lack travel-friendly features, so we love that the bag features a zippered top for security; a trolley sleeve for portability; and an interior zippered pocket for storing phones, wallets, and keys while on the go. To keep track of the stuff sack, there’s also a loop to secure the zippered pouch on the inside of the tote. The unstructured design of the tote means that small or heavy items with a pool at the bottom of the bag, but beach towels , jackets, or any bulkier items will fit perfectly and provide some structure to the bag. 

The Details: 19.7 x 15 x 9 inches | Recycled nylon | Water resistant | Trolley sleeve

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Other Travel Tote Bags We Liked

The tote bags below still came highly recommended for travelers, but didn’t quite make our list of winners. 

Portland Leather Tote Bag : It’s a very portable tote bag due to the smaller size, but it isn’t the most practical for long trips with less storage and organizational features.

Bellroy Tokyo Tote : This bag has tons of pockets and storage for just about anything you would need while traveling, but it’s on the smaller side, so it could fill up quickly. 

Ogio Rise Tote : The bag can be converted from a tote to a backpack, which can be helpful for travelers, but the drawstring opening is a slight drawback for security reasons.

To create this list of the best travel totes, T+L editors and trusted travel experts recommended their favorite bags they have tested on their own travel adventures. With over 30 totes tested, we whittled down our list of the best bags for any and all travelers based on capacity, portability, ease of use, and overall value. From sleek leather totes to convertible weekender bags, we handpicked various bags that we can’t recommend enough for outdoor activities, air travel, or commuting to the office. 

Tips for Buying a Travel Tote

Buy for your intended activity.

Not all tote bags are best for certain types of travel, so it’s important to invest in a bag that meets your needs. Traveling somewhere wet and rainy? You’ll want to opt for a more rugged tote bag that features waterproof or resistant materials like nylon or polyester for protecting items. Leather tote bags work well for air travel or office days, but you’ll likely want to skip bringing it to the beach or for camping where a canvas tote will hold up much better to wear and tear.

Consider organization and size requirements

When it comes to traveling by air, you’ll want to look at dimensions, organization, and other helpful features like trolley sleeves, USB ports, and convertible straps. For outdoor activities like camping and beach days, a spacious and flexible tote bag can be helpful for packing bulky items. We recommend packable or foldable tote bags for travelers looking for a backup bag to keep in a purse or suitcase, rather than using it as a bag to commute or fly with since they can lack structure and organizational features.

Prioritize comfort

Tote bags can be hard on the shoulders and hands when carried for long periods of time (i.e., navigating an airport or while out and about), so we recommend looking for lightweight materials and padded straps to reduce the possible strain. Some tote bags come with convertible straps to carry the tote as a crossbody or backpack, so be sure to look for bags with modular designs or trolley sleeves to place the bag on a suitcase if you’re looking for better portability and versatility in a tote. 

Frequently Asked Questions

While it depends on the size of a tote bag, more often than not, it will count as a personal item or possibly a carry-on bag if it’s large enough. A personal item usually has to fit underneath an airplane seat and if it doesn’t, it could qualify as a carry-on bag, so you’ll want to double-check the size restrictions of personal items for your specific airline since it varies greatly depending on the carrier. 

Tote bags offer the ability to quickly and conveniently access items like a phone and wallet since the bag is kept closer to the front of your body compared to a backpack. Backpacks distribute the weight of your belongings better, but a comfortable tote bag should never be too cumbersome to carry. Look for features like padded handles or a convertible crossbody strap for comfort. Tote bags are also easier to take on and off while traveling, which is convenient when you’re on the go and maneuvering tight places such as airplanes, trains, and cars. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer, Anna Popp , writes nearly all of the team’s Travel + Leisure Tested articles and participates in product testing from luggage and shoes to outdoor gear and apparel. Anna combed through recommendations from over 30 tote bag survey submissions from travel experts and used her knowledge as an expert product tester to put together this list of the best travel tote bags. 

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I Rest My (Suit)Case – These Are The 24 Best Travel Bags For Your Next Trip

Checked bags, carry-ons, and backpacks that are so spacious you'd be set for a week.

BuzzFeed Staff

1. A TikTok-famous  travel backpack  you can pack like a suitcase but will still count as the personal item you put under your seat. It even has a shoe compartment, an easy-access pocket for portable charging, and bonus points: it's got a trolley passthrough in the back so you can secure it on your carry-on! *Swoon* 

This one checks all the boxes: super roomy, has plenty of pockets (including one for shoes and a separate wet bag!), and has a strap that slides down over your luggage handle for easy transport. And reviewers say it meets even Spirit and JetBlue 's personal item rules and fits under airplane seats!

Promising review: "One bag handled a week of travel! This bag is like magic! I fit four pairs of shorts, four shirts, underwear, socks, and a couple of workout outfits with sports bras, two pairs of sandals, four bathing suits, a coverup, a sun hat, toiletries, cosmetics, a laptop, a notebook, three device chargers (computer, phone, and Fitbit) and an electric toothbrush. Even when packed to the max, the weight is comfortably distributed so it doesn’t break your back. It fits under the seat perfectly, too. I bought it when it was 50% off, but I’d pay full price knowing how awesome this bag is for travel." — AlexanderK

Get it from Amazon for  $494.99+  (available in three sizes and 26 colors/styles)

2. Away's best-selling "bigger" carry-on suitcase  that maximizes the space in your luggage...while still being allowed in the overhead bins. A true icon if you ask me! It features a durable hardshell, ~beautifully~ smooth gliding wheels, an interior laundry bag, and more.

TSA Locks: ✅

360 Spinner Wheels:  ✅

Promising reviews: "I love my new bigger carry-on! I t holds so much more than I expected and rolls very nicely . Very happy with the Sorbet Orange color, it's perfect 🥰" — Michele J

"Got lots of compliments on [my] bigger carry-on. It worked great for our trip and held all I needed with room to spare. Rolls like a dream. Now I want bigger ones in the same color!" — Nancy W.

Get it from Away for $295+  (available in 12 colors; also available in eight other sizes , including carry-on and large checked sizes).

3. A 14-inch  under-seat carry-on with wheels  because sometimes a backpack or duffel gets too heavy for your poor ol' shoulders. This will ensure you have everything you need...minus the back pain. I'm looking at you, bag over-stuffers! 👀

P.S. Reviewers say it fits Spirit Airline's personal size requirement!

Promising review: "I use this bag for 2-3 day trips, and it provides more than enough space for one or two changes of clothes, toiletries, and one pair of shoes. The zipper compartment on one side is great for securing individual items that may shift or move around, e.g., toiletry bags, shoes, and hairdryers. While the other open side, secured by a strap, is ideal for folded clothes. There is even a smaller zipped pocket on the zipper compartment side for small items like important documents, passports, or books. The bag zips closed easily and securely. The handle easily slides up and down with the click of a button...The hard case is surprisingly lightweight yet sturdy. Easily fits under airplane seats and in overhead bins. Recommended." — CAMarathonRunner

Get it from Amazon for $119.99+ (available in eight colors; also available in larger sizes and multiple sets). 

4. A matching duffel, carry-on, and toiletry bag set  with your pick between a backpack or a duffel bag. The carry-on is everyone's favorite style — with spinner wheels, of course. And the set comes in the cutest, easy-to-spot brown trim, so there'll be no mishaps at baggage claim.

Promising review: "Super affordable and stylish set. I received several compliments at the airport and these actually look much more expensive than they are. Lots of room, and I was able to fit A LOT inside. Would recommend." — Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $99.99+  (available in seven colors and multiple set sizes).

5. THEE slimmest suitcase anyone has probably ever seen. It's fully collapsible and perfect for constant travelers who have limited storage space at home. This baby lies flat and can be stored under your bag or in the back of your closet without taking up much space at all.

TSA Locks: ❌

360 Spinner Wheels:  ❌

Promising reviews: "I got so many compliments on this bag! It was such a smooth glide through the airport. Went seamlessly from surface to surface. I didn't see anyone with the same bag in the four airports that I passed through. I got the yellow color , and it has not disappointed! Totally worth the money. Did not scratch. The inside lining feels like silk. It is such great quality! Was delivered promptly." — Mary

"I bought two of the Rollink carry-ons for a cruise. We wanted to be able to fold and store easily in a small cabin. Works great for that. Another thing is that its not only thin but lightweight. It also rolled just fine and looked great! Just this extra thing that made a great holiday even better." — Judy P.

Get it from Amazon for $156.99+  or straight from Rollink for $185+ (available in three sizes and eight colors at both retailers).

6. An  anti-theft backpack  that opens from the back instead of the front, which means pickpocketers won't get the opportunity to ruin your trip. It's super cute too!

Former BuzzFeed Shopping writer Britt Ross says: "I recently returned from Italy, and as someone who prefers a small backpack over a purse most of the time, I thought this would be a great purchase, as it would give me some peace of mind as I spent hours wandering around different cities. I'm happy to report that after two weeks of daily use, I'm convinced I'll be bringing it on every trip I take from now on. It's small enough so that it doesn't feel bulky or uncomfortable throughout the day, but has plenty of space for everything you'd need on the go — I fit my wallet, sunscreen, glasses case, hand sanitizer, water bottle, snacks, and even a small umbrella, with room to spare! And the fact that it opens from the back means someone would literally have to pry it off of you to get to your valuables. I bought the medium size in black pebbled faux leather, and it's actually quite cute for the price!"

Promising review: "I bought this backpack to use as a purse while on vacation, and it worked perfectly. The main pouch is protected when you’re walking around because the zipper is protected by your back. There are also two side zippered pockets, one of which kept my phone and the other perfect for sunglasses and a few other items that I wanted to access more easily. I loved that I could wear it as a purse to dinner but use it as a backpack during the day so that my shoulder didn’t get tired. I highly recommend this item!" — Allison

Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in two sizes and 14 styles).

7. A Monos Carry-On Pro suitcase with a convenient sleeve for your laptop, notebook, passport, glasses, and more! The front section has three padded pockets to keep items from being smushed and create a more organized travel experience.

Promising review: "This is a fantastic carry-on suitcase! ...I travel 200,000 air miles per year. I need a carry-on that is lightweight, durable, and flexible. Also, I will be traveling extensively in Europe and thus need a carry-on that is compliant with the more strict international carry-on size limits...The interior design of the Monos carry-on maximizes space. I like that the bag opens into two halves. When open, the right side of the bag has a compression pad that reduces the volume of my clothing by about 40%. Impressive for a built-in compression pad. I have easily packed for three or four days on just the right side of the bag by using the built-in compression pad.

The left side of the bag has a zippered compartment that easily holds two or three days' worth of clothing. It seemingly doubles as a divider for wet or soiled clothing. You could also use it for incidentals or health and beauty items.

The front of the bag has a zippered pouch that accommodates a laptop computer or an iPad and other travel items such as a passport, earbuds, headphones, etc. This pouch is extremely well equipped with zippered pockets and ample room to reach a hand in to retrieve items in-flight...

The exterior design is beautiful. Sleek, minimalist design with quality materials that look and feel like a high-end suitcase. The zippers are durable and of the highest quality I have had on a suitcase. The wheels move effortlessly across all types of surfaces. The bag itself is lightweight (I can lift it with one finger when empty) and handles the weight well when fully packed. The telescoping handle extends higher than my Hartmann carry-on and is extremely stable when trolling my backpack...

As a person who travels extensively I can say with confidence this is the best carry-on bag on the market. I am extremely pleased with this high-quality carry-on bag!" — Douglas V.

Get it from Monos for $325 (available in 12 colors). 

Pssst.... If you're on a budget, Amazon has a similar suitcase for only $99.99 ! 👀

8. A genius hardshell suitcase with a cup holder *and* a phone holder so you can sip and watch with ease while you travel! It also has a charging port for any electronics, and reviewers say that the phone holder works great as a bag-, hat-, and neck pillow holder, too. *Immediately adds to cart*

360 Spinner Wheels:  ✅

Promising review: " Wheels feel like gliding on air! I really like the open at the top as it is lighter and faster to open if you need to get into your luggage. You can use any power source you want inside. Has just enough flex to stuff but is hard enough to keep its shape and fit easily in the overhead bin of airplanes. Liked that I could use the cup holder and still use it as a footstool at the same time! TSA lock works slick. Smooth surface looks inviting for artwork or stickers IMO." — Sunddanse

Get it from Amazon for $189.99+ (available in three sizes and five colors).

9. An aesthetically pleasing cloud-like hardshell suitcase  that, according to reviewers, lives up to the look and glides just as smoothly as you think it would. It's lightweight, features 360-degree spinner wheels, *and* has a TSA combination lock so that your airport journey is a ~breeze~.

Promising reviews: "Beautiful suitcase! Very light but very sturdy and can hold a lot! Moves easily in the airport and easy to lift in and out of the car!!" —Marysia M.  

" So cute and well made!  I bought this suitcase based on looks alone. It is just so adorable and a perfect carry-on size. I traveled with it for the first time last week and was very impressed with the quality and construction. I dragged it all over Manhattan, and the wheels work like a dream. The zippers are also very hardy and the handle extension is very smooth. Everywhere I took it, I got compliments from strangers on the street. I will definitely consider buying more sizes from this brand." — Anne Lindeberg

Get it from Amazon for $149.99+ (available in three sizes, four colors, and a set of two).

10. A Beis backpack  with a trolley passthrough ✅, comfortably padded straps ✅, TWO water bottle pockets ✅, and it opens up wide like a suitcase. Somehow, this beauty still looks sleek and modern. It's perfect for weekend trips (or overnight trips for you over-packers) and works great as a personal item, too. Thank you, Shay Mitchell!

Traveling pro and BuzzFeed Editor Elizabeth Lilly loves this backpack:

"I snagged this backpack after hearing my colleague Chelsea Stuart sing its praises. I had a trusty (now discontinued) InCase backpack I used as a personal item, and it served me well on dozens of trips for about five years. But I wanted a bag that opens up like a suitcase for easier packing. Since buying, I've taken it on countless weekends and international trips. Including, like I said up there ^, to Iceland with just this and a space vac bag full of clothes.

Inside, you'll find a mesh zippered pocket and a plastic pocket perfect for your toiletries. I can fit enough wet toilet toiletries in the second pocket as I'd be allowed to carry on for a plane. In the mesh pocket, I put other necessities like cotton swabs, medicine, eyeglasses, etc. The main compartment is deceptively deep, so you can easily roll clothes and Lego-fit them in together without using packing cubes. In fact, I fit all of the stuff in the second picture in that section (a romper, PJs, a bikini, sunscreen, five pairs of undies, a pair of jean shorts, a nap dress, three pairs of socks, two pairs of sandals, two T-shirts, a slip skirt, sleep mask, curling iron, mini flat iron, makeup bag, and tote bag). AND it has stretchy X-straps to keep it all secure like you'd see in a roller suitcase so when I unzip it, everything stays put.  But before I forget, there's a separate cushioned laptop pocket close to the backpack straps that I found works well for books or a Kindle if your travel leaves you laptop-less. 

I love that this backpack has DEEP side pockets so your umbrella or water bottle won't fall out. In fact, I stuck a flashlight and an umbrella in one side pocket. (You could  always  use a flashlight.)  Plus! It has a generously sized pocket on the front of the backpack with easy access for sunglasses, snacks, writing pens...all sorts of those little extras you need to access quickly. To top it all off, the backpack straps and top handle are STURDY. I felt totally secure toting it around and slinging it into overhead storage compartments on the trains. I love the look and construction of it with faux leather and sturdy black canvas, and the trolley passthrough to easily fit on my roller suitcase I'm about to drag through a bunch of airports. At nearly $80, this isn't the cheapest backpack option but if you're a frequent traveler, you'll get so much mileage on it and seriously save on some baggage fees, making it well worth the cost. This backpack and I are going places, for sure. And if something ever happens to it — though I highly doubt it because it's SO sturdy — I'll 100% buy another. I'm obsessed!"

Get it from Beis Travel for $88 (available in eight colors). 

11. Plus a matching  Beis roller suitcase  ( carry-on and checked size !) that features all of the good stuff: a cushioned trolley handle, a side-carry handle with a weight detector, AND a retractable bag strap. The TSA lock and 360-degree spin wheels are given at this point.

BuzzFeeder Elizabeth Lilly ALSO loves this Beis suitcase:

"Like I already said, I own this and have been using it for about six months after I broke a wheel on a Samsonite suitcase that, tbh, I totally treated like it was a rental car. I most recently took it on a 10-day trip to Paris, Bologna, and Milan, which entailed me flying three times. I was able to fit all my stuff (with extra room!) in this and my beloved  Beis backpack , using the trolley pass for my backpack over the top handle for this suitcase for super easy airport navigation. The wheels are the smoothest of any suitcase I've ever used, and I'm able to glide around the airport around slow walkers, families taking up way too much room, and people who've apparently never been to an airport before. This suitcase also comes with two opaque bags that are great for dirty laundry, and the zip-closed side has a clear pocket where I like to stash my  Apple AirTag  so I can quickly check that, yep, it's in my suitcase. The straps on the other side make it easy to pack in stuff without having to expand the zipper to allow for more room. (On my most recent trip, I packed TWO midi-length coats in addition to the one I wore on the plane.) Even though I travel about every chance I get (these days, I'm on a plane nearly every month), I think I'm going to be able to get a very long stretch use out of this beaut!"

Get it from Beis Travel for $218+  (available in 10 colors and in sizes: carry-on , medium checked , and large checked ).

12. Or a more affordable  colorful hard-side roller suitcase  because it's earned praise like "super sturdy" and "durable" from reviewers. It also easily fits in overhead bins, so no more worrying will it/won't it as you line up to board.

TSA Locks: ❌ 

Promising review: "Bought this with the 35L Open Story Backpack , and they couldn’t have been a better pair for a better value! Used them both as carry-on and personal item for a week vacation on an island!" — Anonymous

Get it from Target for $62.99 (originally $89.99; available in seven colors).

13. A durable Timbuk2 laptop backpack with so many pockets and compartments, you'll probably find a new one on every trip. This baby will keep your laptop nice and safe (even without a case or cover) AND I've personally seen it hold a weekend's worth of clothes!

My partner has had this backpack for YEARS (he did the custom colors option ) and still uses it daily. Whether he's commuting to work, to a coffee shop, or away for the weekend — this is literally the bag he'll grab, no questions asked. He says it's incredibly durable, and I think it still looks great even after constant use!

Get it from Timbuk2 for $89+ (available in three colors or a custom option). 

14. A genius personal item suitcase with *removable wheels*  because some airlines charge an arm and a leg just for carry-on (you know who you are!). This suitcase will get you movin' through the airport quickly and still meet most personal item size requirements. Just be sure to take your  wheels off before wheels up.

Take OFF luggage is a small biz.

Promising review: "I refuse to pay the outrageous cost of checking a bag or carry-on. Once you take the wheels off, this fits perfectly into the sizing thing for Frontier, so I don't have to pay anything.  Fits quite a bit of stuff in it as well. So far, I've used it on a four-day trip to California and a three-day trip to Las Vegas. We are going on a 10-day trip to Puerto Rico soon on Frontier, and again, I don't want to pay for bags, so I made sure to book a place with a washer/dryer; otherwise, this would probably be too small for 10 days." —S.  Denzel

Get it from Amazon for  $119.99  (available in four colors). 

15. A  Calpak Luka Duffel  you won't be able to travel without ever again (trust me). This bag is ROOMY, has a separate compartment for shoes to keep your clothes and toiletries clean and is comfortable enough for long travel days.

I own the Luka Duffel in the color ' oatmeal ', and I use it EVERY TIME I travel. Whether I use it solo for a short weekend trip or as a personal item with a carry-on and a checked bag. Either way, this duffle will definitely be with me. My favorite part has to be the exterior shoe compartment, but I also love that there are TONS of spacious pockets inside and outside the bag — there's even one hidden in the convenient trolley sleeve. The puffy material is also water-resistant and makes the straps comfy, too (although I still appreciate the long adjustable shoulder strap that comes with it). I love it!

Get it from Nordstrom for $128 (available in three colors) or straight from Calpak for $128+ (available in two sizes and 18 colors). 

16. A  convertible garment duffel bag with protective lining if you're traveling with important clothing that you can't bear to fold and stuff into a suitcase. This is the perfect way to keep items pristine without losing extra carry-on space.

This bag has lots of pockets inside as well!

Promising review: "I bought this as a solution to my frequent travel for work. I wanted something to store my shirt and ties and also any extra shoes and items. This is perfect! It has some really thought-out pockets, clips, zippers, etc. It's great-looking and the materials seem like it will last a long time. If I were ambitious, I could probably bring my whole wardrobe in this thing, but that might be packing it pretty tight. I like extra room. This thing has plenty of room though, so you could easily do a weekend with this without much of an issue for space. Highly recommended!" — Al Jur

Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (available in five colors and two styles). 

17. Water- and stain-resistant softside expandable luggage great for those times when you need just a taaad  more room in your suitcase. Simply unzip the extender for an extra two inches!

TSA Locks: ❌

Promising review : "This is my second suitcase of this size and brand for checked baggage. The first one lasted seven years with regular use... We’ve dragged this across Europe and found it to be the easiest suitcase to manage. It’s roomy and weighs so much less than others. T he wheels don’t squeak or stick, easy to turn ." — aimeelewis

Get it from Amazon for $197.62 (available in 14 colors and multiple sizes, but note only the larger checked size is expandable!).

18. A lightweight  three-piece luggage set  for the bigger trips and the over-packers like myself. This set includes a carry-on, a small checked bag, AND a large checked bag size. 

Check it out on TikTok here . 

Promising review:  "I bought this a few months ago when I knew I'd be flying across the country (more or less) twice this past spring/summer; it was the first new luggage I had bought in about 25 years. I've taken the set on several trips now — two round-trip flights with plane changes, a couple of two-night road-trip hotel stays, a six-day 1,800-mile road trip, and a mandatory wildfire evacuation, and I really, really like it. It rolls like a dream on hard floors, sidewalks, and parking lots — makes it easy for two people to manage three suitcases, each with a laptop bag or duffel attached. The bright red color (my favorite shade of red) really pops and makes it easy to pick out of a luggage carousel. It's lightweight and goes in and out of a hatchback with ease. This set truly makes travel even more fun. Well worth the money." — Rachel

Get a set of three from Amazon for $179.99 (available in 22 colors and as a set of four).

19. OR a  14-inch and 20-inch carry-on set  you can use together or separately on an upcoming flight, but just know they'll both comfortably meet most size requirements. You can even use the 20-inch for yourself and give the smaller 14-inch to your kiddo! How adorable would that matching set look?

Somago is a small biz specializing in luggage. 

Promising review: "Bought this after committing to traveling only with a carry-on. I didn’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on a carry-on, but I also didn’t want to go too low and the product faulty. I found this to be a happy medium. It survived the streets of Greece, hills, rough and uneven terrain, ferries, stairs, and plane rides. The wheels offer a smooth ride. I stuffed it to the max with 24 lbs worth of clothing (for reference). I did use packing cubes on one side, though. Zipper handled it well, and the case held its shape. Overall, a great buy and highly recommend." — SR

Get them from Amazon for $89.99+ (available in seven colors).

20. A large 'n' spacious  convertible travel backpack  that turns into a duffel, too — just attach the side straps! It has tons of easily accessible pockets for things like your phone, laptop, passport, etc. And when being used as a duffel, the backpack straps can be hidden behind a sneaky flap.

Promising reviews: " Purchased in Dec. 2021 and have used it regularly. Will easily hold everything I need for a long weekend, plus a laptop and electronics. Pockets galore! The best feature is the super-rugged design: The fabric, the stitching, and especially the hardware are all heavy-duty. Best zippers I've ever seen on a piece of luggage. You can carry it like a backpack or zip up the cover over those straps and use the provided shoulder strap. I like the sturdy grab handle on the front.

There is a pocket on the side that could hold a water bottle, but it might be a snug fit if you stuff the thing full (I do). The shoulder strap is unpadded, although the backpack straps are excellent. It's a bit pricey but I've seen lesser bags out there for more. Well worth it. My daughter has one and flies everywhere with it." — Donald Drennon

Get it from Amazon for  $76.68  (available in five colors).

21. Or a 22-inch/63-liter  convertible backpack-to-rolling suitcase  so you can have all the versatility you want when packing and  traveling. Left with a lightweight backpack but did some *major* shopping during the trip? Now you can just convert your bag to roll so you can carry all of your new goodies with ease.

360 Spinner Wheels:  ❌

And! It comes with three packing cubes. 

Promising review: "I have been looking for a bag like this for two years. I wanted to have the ability to pack as much as I could for my often weekend conferences or week-long trips with carry-on only. I wanted the handle to be high enough to slip on a backpack and also be able to pack the backpack full of clothes or use it for day trips. I was not expecting it to be stable when full, thinking since it had only back wheels, it would just fall over. It stays up when packed full. I love the charging area holder inside the small backpack. The laptop area holds my MacBook Pro, my notebook, and my book. I the front pocket. I use it for my cords, and the inside mesh pocket is great for valuables. The main compartment backpack can be packed really fully And you can tighten to reduce strain on the zippers with the clip buckles. FINALLY. My favorite is the length of the handle; I’m 5'10", and the handle goes all up to my belt buckle when I stand next to it. Very easy to grab and maneuver. All in all, I love this bad and will tell everyone about it." — Zack Sperow

Get it from Amazon for $146.99  (also available in gray).

22. And a  fold-up duffel  if you just know the shopping will get out of hand and you'll need more space for all the vacation gifts you're returning with. This foldable duffel bag won't take much space on your way there, but will be VERY helpful on your way back!

It folds into a tiny pouch when not in use, is tear and water-resistant, and even has a separate side pocket for shoes. There's also a side strap that slides easily over your roller luggage handle.

Promising review: "We bought this to take with us when we visited our daughter who is studying abroad for four months. We figured she would not have enough room in her luggage when it was time to come home. Folded up, this bag was so compact and lightweight, it took up almost no room in our own luggage for the trip over. Then, sure enough, she had a ton of clothes and shoes to send home with us and packed this bag full. We checked the bag, and it made it through two international flights without a scratch. The BEST feature is the side strap that allows you to slide it over the handle of a rolling suitcase so you don't have to carry it. This is probably the most practical and the best-value item I have purchased in years. " — Tosa Mom

Get it from Amazon for  $18.99  (available in 16 colors/patterns).

23. A chic carry-on suitcase with a power bank that will probably (definitely) be your new go-to when traveling. It features an odor-proof laundry bag, a hard-case shell with "crush-proof" bumpers for extra protection, and — the main attraction — an ejectable portable battery. It's cute, it's roomy, AND it charges your electronics? Sign. Me. Up!

Promising review: "I've been looking for a carry-on replacement for some time. My last carry-on was from 2007, so it was super old and not very good. Now that I have my July Carry On, I couldn't be more pleased. It's so good from functionality to style. I love the laundry bag — it's great that I don't have to remember to take my own separate laundry bag with me anymore + the charging is so useful. The wheels are silent and smooth — so much so that on the slightest decline, the bag will 100% roll away from you. The bumpers are a bit scratched after some use, but it's hardy/designed to protect what's inside, and I accept that there will be some of that happening on long-haul flights. I really enjoy the personalization as well — I had my name and a little frog etched on the top — so cute!" — Ameeka N.

Get it from July for $250.75+ (originally $295; available in 10 colors).

24. And lastly, a  neck pillow you can stuff with clothing  — perfect for anyone who always says, "Ugh, I should've packed that one outfit!" whenever they travel. You can *literally* fit a whole outfit in this neck pillow, and zero airline rules will be broken! 👏🏾

Check out a TikTok showing how someone used a similar neck pillow  to just take that and a personal item onto a RyanAir flight that was charging for hand luggage. 

Promising review: "The Tube Pillow was a savior on my last trip. It held a surprising amount of clothes and doubled as a dirty laundry bag . I used it as an on-the-lap pillow... for extra storage without extra fees, it's worth it!" — Sharon

Get it from Amazon for $43.95 .

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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