The Best Affordable Luggage (That Definitely Doesn’t Look Cheap)

• What We Like: lightweight, TSA-approved lock
• What We Don’t Like: can bend if overstuffed
• Size: 20-inch carry-on

Made with a blend of both ABS and PC plastic, the sleek shell of this 20-inch suitcase means your belongings are majorly protected, as does the built-in TSA lock. Not only does it weigh in at less than 7 pounds, it also has 360-degree spinner wheels—meaning your dash to the gate won’t be slowed down by a clunky suitcase. Inside you'll find a removable fabric divider, which is equipped with two zippered pockets. Overall, the carry-on boasts a 4.5-star rating from more than 12,000 reviewers, many of whom appreciate it for its quality and maneuverability. You can also get it in the 24-inch or 28-inch size (which is expandable) if you need more space.

• What We Like: expandable, scratch-resistant
• What We Don’t Like: no TSA lock
• Size: 20-inch carry-on

This luggage might seem basic, but it's got everything you need for a smooth trip. You know, like an expandable zip gusset for more packing space and four 360-degree spinner wheels for easy maneuvering. The extra-thick ABS shell can withstand the bumpiest overhead compartments, while the interior organizer (with three zippered pockets) will keep your valuables secure. One buyer called it "a reliable and practical travel companion," and praised its "durable construction, ample storage capacity and smooth rolling wheels."

• What We Like: expandable gusset
• What We Don’t Like: softside material isn’t as durable
• Size: 22-inch carry-on

This 360-degree wheeled spinner suitcase gives you more performance for less moolah. There’s an interior strap to keep everything organized (ditto the two external pockets) as well as an expandable zippered gusset that provides you an extra 2 inches of packing space. It’s 22-inches long, which is quite large compared to other affordable options on this list. While it does have a softsided exterior, it is made from a twill polyester fabric that the brand claims will withstand the wear-and-tear of travel. Plenty of buyers agree.

• Why We Like: durable, saves space in your closet, holds a lot
• What We Don't Like: zippers and wheels aren't smooth, interior space could be larger, side pocket not very functional
• Size: 21-inch carry-on

Launched in the U.S. in the summer of 2022, Rollink piqued our interest with the brand's claims that its suitcase could fold down to less than the width of a credit card, reducing its size by 75 percent. After testing it for a year, we can safely say that while it definitely takes up more than a credit card's worth of space in your closet (the expandable area between its two hardside ends allows it to shrink down to about the width of a book), it's still compact enough to be a apartment lover's dream. It works through the use of three wooden interior slabs attached to velcro strips that you can attach to the sides of the case for stability and shape. Once you're finished using the suitcase, the wooden sides detach from the velcro, allowing the the suitcase's two ends zip together to be zipped together.

When expanded, this holds slightly more than my 24-inch American Tourister bag ($126), since the bottom isn't cluttered by any bars or obstructors. It has also held up pretty well over time: While it certainly has its scratches, few are very noticeable. We do wish the side pocket was a bit more functional (it's a bit too tight to get much inside or get anything back out once it's gone in) and that the hardware, including the zippers and wheels, were a bit smoother, but other than that, it's a nice and innovative little case for the price.

• What We Like: three suitcases included, spinner wheels
• What We Don’t Like: no TSA lock
• Size: 20-inch carry-on, 24-inch checked, 28-inch checked

Who can resist *three* suitcases for the typical price of one? This luggage set, which includes a 20-inch carry-on, 24-inch checked suitcase and 28-inch checked suitcase, offers major bang for your buck. Beyond the aesthetically pleasing look of the textured ABS shell, this set's benefits include expandable gussets, ergonomic aluminum telescoping handles and fabric dividers inside. "The design and build quality of these suitcases are top-notch," per one promising review. "Despite facing rough handling during my trips, they have shown remarkable durability with minimal scratches and dings," the buyer added.

• What We Like: stylish design, scratch-resistant
• What We Don’t Like: can feel small
• Size: 21-inch carry-on

It’s rare to find something at Delsey Paris for under $150 that isn’t a small bag, but this expandable hardshell carry-on delivers designer quality without costing you an arm and a leg. Its textured rigid shell is durable and scratch-resistant, per the brand, while the roomy interior features a large mesh compartment to keep items separated and organized. We love its sleek and stylish design, which is proof that you don't have to sacrifice form for function.

• What We Like: TSA locks, comes with six packing cubes and laundry bags
• What We Don’t Like: shell may be susceptible to rough handling
• Size: 28-inch checked

Make that checked bag expense really pay off with this 28-inch ABS suitcase that has silent spinner wheels, a TSA-approved lock and a sturdy aluminum telescopic handle. Its main draw, however, is that it comes complete with its own set of packing cubes and laundry bags to keep your clothes tidy no matter how long your trip. Plus, the chic woven look of the suitcase's exterior makes it look pricier than it is.

• What We Like: wipe-clean canvas, separate shoe compartment
• What We Don’t Like: can get scuffed
• Size: 18-inch weekender bag

Béis, the luggage brand founded by Pretty Little Liars star Shay Mitchell, has been taking over social media lately—for good reason. Among the trendy brand's most buzzed-about items is this water-resistant Weekender duffel. In fact, PureWow Wellness Director Sarah Stiefvater reviewed it after taking it on a two-week European vacation, and said it "easily earned a spot among [her] travel essentials." She loved that the wire rim on the bag's opening makes it easy to see all the contents inside, and added that the separate compartment at the bag's bottom is ideal for keeping shoes, toiletries or dirty clothes. Add to all that a convenient trolley sleeve and removable padded shoulder strap, and you've discovered your perfect travel tote.

• What We Like: antimicrobial fabric, interior 15-inch laptop sleeve
• What We Don’t Like: only one color
• Size: 17-inch backpack

If you like packing light so you don’t rack up extra charges at the airport, this backpack is a great choice. Its exterior is fashioned from eco-friendly recycled fabric which is both water-resistant and antimicrobial (meaning it repels germs and bacteria). Other well-thought-out details, ranging from the lightly padded shoulder straps to the back trolley sleeve, make it particularly suited to travel. Despite its small size, you could definitely pack smartly for a weekend with only one shoe option. Plus, you'll find a cool faux-fur lining in the front pocket to protect your more delicate essentials, along with a dedicated laptop sleeve that fits up to a 15-inch device.

• What We Like: stands upright, lots of pockets
• What We Don’t Like: only two wheels
• Size: 22-inch rolling duffle

We love a rolling duffel that fits a lot but is still small enough throw in the overhead compartment, and at 22 inches, this eight-pocketed bag hits the mark. It has the ability to stand on its own—pending how much stuff you shove in there—and in addition to rolling it, you can carry it like a duffle or a backpack thanks to the convertible top handles. Reviewers note that the bag is quite durable and roomy, while the tailored styling means it looks appropriate even beyond outdoorsy adventures.

• What We Like: compact, USB charging port
• What We Don’t Like: only suitable for short trips or as a personal item
• Size: 16.5-inch carry-on

You’ll never be asked to gate-check again with this polyester roller bag that conveniently slides under most airplane seats—making boarding and exiting a little less hectic. It has a trolley strap to easily attach atop larger luggage and plenty of interior (and exterior) pockets to keep your essentials organized. Better yet, the ingenious central pouch unzips like a tongue for easy access to everything inside. You’ll also find a USB charging port to keep devices juiced during layovers (so long as you add a battery charging pack), and there’s a laptop compartment that fits devices up to 13.3 inches.

• What We Like: fully padded laptop sleeve, two-wheel maneuverability
• What We Don’t Like: only works as a personal item
• Size: 15.6-inch carry-on

The fabric of this mini-suitcase is made of recycled bottles, so it’s as eco-friendly as it is conveniently compact. It boasts a padded mesh laptop compartment as well as an interior organization section, making it super efficient when it comes to lugging around your electronics, which reviewers adore. And since it pairs two wheels with two feet, you can be sure this little number isn’t going to roll away with your expensive items inside. With a water-resistant exterior and antimicrobial coating, it's also impressively designed for the long haul.

• What We Like: funky pattern, durable PC shell
• What We Don’t Like: only comes in one color
• Size: 30-inch checked

The purple marbleized pattern is obviously the first thing you'll notice about this hardside luggage (for good reason!), but it's more than just a pretty face. In fact, its PC shell should ensure extra durability and, at 30 inches long and under $100, it's one of the most affordable large suitcases we've come across. And you’ll get more than your money’s worth with its built-in water-resistant pockets, 360-degree double wheels and expansion gusset that adds 2 inches of depth when you need it. Reviews say it’s great for long trips—not least of all because you're guaranteed to spot it instantly on the luggage carousel.

• What We Like: retro look, TSA locks, comes with cosmetic carry bag 
• What We Don’t Like: may scratch easily
• Size: 20-inch carry-on, 13-inch cosmetic bag

There are several reasons to love this rose gold luggage set. For one, it comes with an adorable hardside cosmetic bag to match (and attach to) the carry-on suitcase, so you can secure your toiletries *and* your outfits. There's also the fact that both pieces have a unique retro look, thanks to their mod curves, glossy PC shell and trunk-style detailing. As far as functionality goes, they're each fully lined and feature useful interior pockets, while the suitcase includes a built-in TSA lock, expandable zip closure and spinner wheels.

• What We Like: folds into a pouch, made of recycled materials 
• What We Don’t Like: may be smaller than expected
• Size: 18-inch duffle

Sometimes you want a "just in case" bag. You know, that extra bag you stuff in your carry-on just in case you decide to go shopping and come home with souvenirs for your entire extended family. This ingenious little fold-up number from Paravel is that—and then some. It goes from a compact 8-inch pouch to an 18-inch duffle that, even on its own, can hold up to five days' worth of clothing and two pairs of shoes, according to the brand. It’s also made of a super lightweight nylon that was crafted from recycled plastic bottles, so not only is it sustainable, it also won't weigh you down. Plus, you can personalize it with the monogram of your choosing. 

• What We Like: multiple color options, top and side handles
• What We Don’t Like: might be too large to carry on to some airplanes
• Size: 22-inch carry-on

This hardside carry-on from Target mimics the clean, minimalist aesthetic of popular Instagram brands, so you can snap a first-class #OOTD at the airport without having to pay first-class prices. There are plenty of pockets within to keep your belongings organized, and it's expandable if you end up packing too many outfits for the 'gram. Most importantly, though, you can expect it to withstand the wear-and-tear of travel thanks to its sturdy shell exterior, constructed of a PC and ABS combo.