Formerly the unsexy, sensible sister of the more frivolous bags we really wanted, the practical purchase of a suitcase has fast become more important than ever. Consider Rimowa's colourful cases (a veritable status symbol among the fashion pack), GlobeTrotter’s old-school trollies, or Crash Baggage’s deliberately dented designs; what was once a means to an end has become an event in itself. And it's not just luxury brands, either – some of the best suitcases are now designed for a younger traveller in mind and thus are a more affordable price.
So why has this formerly sleepy category suddenly picked up pace? Simply put, demand. Whereas once upon a time we probably used a sturdy case once or twice a year, now we’re flying more than ever as travel returns to normal in a post-pandemic world. Yes that means you have more opportunity to show off a great piece, but it also means you likely have less tolerance for something unwieldy and cumbersome.
‘Delays, security checks and luggage restrictions can make travelling a bit of a challenge,’ says Luc Goidadin, creative director of Smythson's excellent range of weekenders and travel bags which help you access phone, passport and travel miscellanies effortlessly. ‘Beautifully designed travel pieces can help soften the blow.'
It’s not just that we’re constantly on-the-go – we’re always switched on as well. There’s no more going off-grid, instead we can triumphantly show off our trophy purchases on Instagram in the same way we would a pair of shoes or new dress. Furthermore, with airport arrivals terminals acting like a strip-lit, downtime red carpet (some brands even pay to get their designs on de-boarding celebs such is the publicity opportunity), we’ve become more attuned to the best suitcases out there.
But what if you’ve blown all your budget on the trip? You can still get involved. Customisation options are growing in popularity, meaning you can pimp up an anonymous case you already own. Monogramming, stickers and a plethora of playful luggage tags are all easy ways to add a bit of individuality. And just think how much easier that makes it to find at baggage collection. Though if you do insist on packing ten pairs of shoes for a minibreak – you’re on your own with that.
SHOP: The Best Suitcases 2023
www.antler.co.uk
Antler has had something of a re-brand in the last few years and now makes some of the best suitcases on offer. There's a great selection of sizes, from carry-on cases to large luggage, meaning there's something for every kind of trip you're making. They're strong but super light and there's a great variety of colours, too.
Big news in Australia, Nere has just launched here in the UK – and it may just change the way you travel. There are suitcases of all sizes, in colours so good you'll want to spend your entire time taking pictures of your luggage. The brights collection, including this pink number, is particularly appealing. Plus, you can find vanity cases to mix and match.
www.thenorthface.co.uk
For the adventurous traveller who still wants a suitcase rather than a massive backpack, this case is designed for all weather conditions and is, therefore, entirely waterproof. It's also tough, hardwearing and there aren't any zips to have to fiddle with.
www.awaytravel.com
You may be familiar with AWAY's classic range but the aluminium styles take it up a notch. This is still designed to fit in the overhead compartment of most airlines but gives you even more room to stash your essentials (and then some). You can personalise it and everything.
www.matchesfashion.com
Pre-dented so you don't need to worry about being upset by careless baggage handlers, Crash's lightweight cases have become a favourite with the fashion crowd. Plus, a bright colour means you'll spot it easily.
www.johnlewis.com
For anyone who doesn't like unpacking, this suitcase is for you. Light and lockable, it also features two removable packing cubes which voluminous, hand washable and easy to lift. This means you can simply pack everything into it and then just take out the cube at the other end and put it in the wardrobe. As an added bonus, Samsonite has pledged to plant a tree for every Essens suitcase sold in July.
www.mytheresa.com
Beautifully designed and paying homage to the 1920s, Globe-Trotter's luggage has become an in-demand luxury item. It's certainly an investment but one to make if you're a regular traveller who wants a chic suitcase they won't have to replace.
www.selfridges.com
If you don't want to spend a fortune on your suitcase but still want something with all the qualities of modern luggage, American Tourister is your best bet. There are a selection of different sizes and colours, all of which have four wheels to make travelling easier.
www.johnlewis.com
Combining all the French style of Longchamp's usual bags with the practicality of a great carry-on case, this is for those who want to avoid hard shell suitcases or just want something a bit different. The storage is very generous, too, so it's ideal for those who haven't yet mastered the art of packing lightly.
neretravel.co.uk
If you're looking for a bigger case that looks great but won't break the bank, this rose gold suitcase from Nere is ideal. It has eight spinner wheels to make it easier than ever to take with you on your travels, plus ther'es an anti-theft secure zip and a built-in TSA combination lock.
www.net-a-porter.com
If you're looking for a more sustainable option, Paravel is the way to go. This suitcase is part of NET SUSTAIN, Net-a-Porter's edit of products which are carefully selected to ensure they meet at least one of nine key sustainable attributes. Made from vegan leather, this has a fully-lined interior made from 15 upcycled water bottles. Plus, it's also very chic.
www.rimowa.com
There's a reason why RIMOWA suitcases are still the leaders in luxury luggage. Strong, durable and lightweight, this suitcase is made to last forever. This particular size is designed for long-haul journeys (you can fit absolutely everything in it. Well, almost) but there are plenty of sizes, colours and finishes to choose from.
www.selfridges.com
This particular suitcase keeps selling out, most likely because it's easy to travel with but provides a lot of space. Plus, it's not too heavy either. Bric's certainly knows how to make excellent luggage.
The Best Suitcase Brands:
As you'd expect, the best-selling suitcase brands are fairly consistent each year, with some labels dominating the top spots every time. There are heritage labels that always get it right: Bric's, Longchamp, Louis Vuitton and Globe-Trotter are an example of suitcase brands who are still making really excellent luggage that is practical, too.
The likes of RIMOWA, Crash Baggage and AWAY are all suitcase brands which have had some great hype on social media thanks to celebrity fans. They each make stylish suitcases with their own appeal – AWAY became particularly popular for its add-on of a USB charger that fits discreetly in the top of its suitcases and can charge any phone on the go.
Slightly more affordable brands, depending on the style of suitcase you're looking for, include Samsonite, American Tourister and Nere, an Australian brand creating colourful cases with a number of useful (and aesthetically pleasing) travel accessories to go with them.