The Best Luggage, Bags and Backpacks for Travel

Updated: February 2023

When you live out of a suitcase, good luggage is essential.

From carry-ons to day bags and checked baggage, I’ve spent a lot of years curating the perfect collection. Travel is so much easier when you have the right kind of bag for the trip. And, of course, quality is key.

You definitely don’t want your bag falling apart at the airport…or anytime when you’re in transit.

Need an upgrade? Here’s a rundown of the best luggage, bags, and backpacks for travel.

Helpful Tip

As travelers around the globe are dealing with way more lost and delayed luggage than ever before, I highly recommend investing in Apple Air Tags to be able to track the location of your items at all times. You can attach them to your keys, backpack, or camera bags, and even slip one into your checked luggage for flights! 

The Best Carry-on Luggage for Travel

When it comes to carry-ons, it’s essential to have the right size bag. For travel within the United States, you can usually take a 22-inch tall carry-on bag. When you are outside of the United States, generally you will be restricted to a 21-inch carry-on.

Since your space is restricted, you’ll want to find a bag that’s easy to organize and maximizes every inch.

My current go-to carry-on bag is The Carry-On Roller in Beige by Béis.

And, one of my favorite parts: it’s stain-resistant!

My bag got a few scuff and dirt marks during our last international flight and I was able to scrub them right off, good as new. I’ve tested a lot of luggage in my days and I’ve got to say I’m seriously impressed (and in love) with my Béis carry-on.

I’ll share more about the matching large suitcase later on, but spoiler alert: they bundle together seamlessly so you’re not struggling through the airport!

Runner Ups for Best Carry-on Luggage

Looking for another option? Here are a few other great solutions:

The Best Day Bags for Travel

When you’re traveling, you’ll want to upgrade your normal handbag to a day bag that can fit more, and that’s safe from pickpockets. It’s good to have a bag that can carry your camera and all of your daily essentials!

The Best Checked Bag for Travel

When it comes to checked bags, I opt for double-compartment luggage for optimal organization and space. Having different compartments to stash things makes it infinitely easier to know where everything is (and re-pack at the end of a trip).

I mentioned above how much I love my Béis Carry-On — but I honestly think if you’re going to spring for new luggage…

You should really get the Large Check-In Roller to match.

While, yes, the *aesthetic* is a serious selling point, this is actually about functionality, too!

There are built-in straps to attach your carry-on to your large roller bag, and then you can attach a hat to your carry-on. Meaning you can manage all the luggage with one hand. GENIUS!

A few more reasons why I love my Béis Large Check-In Roller:

• Stain-resistant
• Built-in weight limit indicator
• Optional expansion, compression flaps, and pockets galore
• TSA-approved combination lock for peace of mind
• Built-in laundry bag to keep to-be-worn clothes separated from ones that need a wash

The Best Gear Backpacks for Travel

When you have a ton of tech to haul, a good backpack is in order. For photoshoot days, I like to carry a bag that’ll hold my camera, lenses, drone, laptop, and more.

The Best Adventure Backpacks

Are you going on a backpacking adventure? You’ll need something sturdy and lightweight to hold all your gear. Here are my top picks!

Luggage Extras

Even the best suitcase doesn’t organize itself. To keep things sorted, you’ve got to grab a few add-ons like packing cubes, clear pouches, and a good passport cover.

Oh, and, don’t forget your luggage tag. A lot of luggage looks alike, so grab a tag that screams “that’s MINE!”.

Do you have a favorite brand of luggage or bag for when you’re on the road? Please share it in the comments below!