The 11 Best Luxury Luggage Pieces of 2025, Tested and Reviewed

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Luxury luggage isn’t just about turning heads in the terminal, though naturally that’s part of the appeal. It’s also investing in something that will exceed your expectations enough to justify a higher price tag. And that’s where we come in.

As a luggage enthusiast and associate editorial director at Travel + Leisure, I’ve personally owned luxury bags since the first suitcase I bought with my own money (a Tumi that I still own today) and have amassed a high-end collection, including pieces from nine of the brands on this list. I’ve also been present for nearly every T+L luggage test where we first put these expensive items through the same measures we do for all suitcases, no holds barred. We examined every inch inside and out then packed them up, whirled them through obstacle courses, and shoved them off chest-high tables in our testing lab—before traveling with each one repeatedly, of course.

After combing through insights from three years of luggage tests (and more than 770 total bags), I’ve honed in on the very best luxury pieces we’d invest in time and time again, and I confidently recommend them to you.

Hartmann Reserve Medium Expandable Trunk

Credit: Luggage Pros

Why We Love It

Included packing cubes, built-in dividers, and ample pockets will please even the most organized packers—and inspire the rest.

Some suitcases are all form and no function, but this Hartmann trunk nails both. Made up of a 50/50 divided structure, this bag impressed every single one of us with its organization. First off, there were three built-in dividers that snap into place, or you can remove them if filling that portion of the bag with a larger item. We loved that we could organize our packing list by product type and then fully zip that half shut so there’s no clothing explosion if you unzip the bag with the wrong side on top. That zipper flap also featured two roomy waterproof pockets, so you could forgo a toiletry bag and put all your cosmetics straight in there.

The other half is an open compartment, but this suitcase comes with two packing cubes, a large garment pouch, and a shoe bag. They all nestle in together and can be secured with two leather belt straps, the epitome of having a place for everything and putting everything in its place according to our senior testing editor, Jackie Cucco, who rated it a 10/10 for organization.

We were also impressed by how smoothly this large trunk rolled, maneuvering better than carry-on bags half its size, with a whopping 12 adjustable heights for the handle and luxe leather grab handles for a comfy grip there, too. That means, while its heft may take up more overall space, you won’t be slowed down zipping from the tarmac to the taxi. It actually felt lighter in weight than it was when we maneuvered its hand-painted wheels through an obstacle course of cones and paving stones.

This brand was founded in 1877 with a commitment to “luggage so fine, it will stand as a symbol of excellence,” and it shows. I personally own both this trunk and its matching carry-on suitcase, and I can further vouch for the durability and quality here. As someone who adores the little details and never travels without pouches and packing cubes, I love that the included ones already fit perfectly so I’m not playing Tetris with my existing collection. Plus, the coordination between the lining and the cubes for both sizes is almost enough to make me wish I left something in my bag just so I could open it up at check-in to show this off.

Credit: Rimowa

We would be remiss to have a list of luxury luggage pieces and not include this brand, arguably one of the most respected ones around. If I had $10 for every time someone asked me about Rimowa suitcases, I could buy myself a second Rimowa. Most recognized for its stunning aluminum cases (in production since 1920), we found that its reputation was well earned as this was the best aluminum suitcase we’ve ever tested. It was an instant eye catcher both in our lab tests and at the airport.

Associate editor (and Rimowa owner) Anna Popp loved how well the compression flaps pressed everything down during her lab test and recent Arizona trip with this suitcase, also praising its buttery smooth wheels, solid handles, and the bonus security of a lock on each latch.

This bag is just slightly wider than traditional international carry-on regulations (at 15.8 inches), but we found it to be surprisingly roomy as you can underpack one side, and cinch its powerful compression pads down. If you’re worried that’s still not enough room, I own the next size up—Rimowa Original Cabin—which adds 4 liters of space, enough to easily fit another two days’ worth of outfits. I agree with our team’s conclusion about this bag’s looks as I find mine so pretty that sometimes I leave it sitting out after a trip just so I can admire it in my apartment.

Credit: Bric’s

If you’re looking for a luxe checked bag that’s not a trunk, this colorful Bric’s suitcase tops our list. Every hue was inspired by the Italian coast, fitting with the brand’s Lake Como heritage, with a coordinating liner and wheels; we tested the sage green, but it also comes in light blue, sea green, and emerald. While the glossy finish did get an expected black scuff during testing, this light color has held up perfectly after being checked several times in the last year with its included stretchy black cover.

When it came to the test itself, we were impressed by how flexible the outer shell is. This extra give made the bag feel stronger—when we clobbered it with a bat, the bat bounced off, and the suitcase itself seemed to nearly bounce as we hit the floor after we shoved it as well. This bag has become the go-to checked suitcase for our senior testing editor who both tested it in the lab and has since taken it everywhere from Denver to Nantucket. She felt like the medium size reduced temptation to overpack, but it also has an additional 1.6 inches of expansion, if needed. In fact, this bag’s 8-pound weight is lighter than many luxe carry-ons nearly half its size, and its flexible hardside exterior can allow you to squeeze in additional items, so it would be a solid choice if you’re constantly pushing an 50-pound weight limit.

Tumi 19 Degree Aluminum International Carry-on

Credit: Tumi

Tumi is the brand I’ve spotted the most often over the years, especially when I traveled frequently for work. This suitcase is definitely one of the more unique aluminum ones I’ve seen, with a ridged exterior that stands out in a sea of smooth. We tested blush, a textured shade that better masks scratches versus the matte alternatives (like silver or black from this brand) and competitors.

First off, the stunning rose gold with camel leather accents is unlike any color combo I’ve seen elsewhere, and despite my initial concern with its small size, once I opened it I was pleased to see the Tumi organization I’ve come to love, making this an ideal bag if you’re tied to international carry-on size constraints. Both halves fully zip up. This is preferable if you also like to make use of every leftover crevice once your main packing is done and don’t want items to slip past pads or flaps with gaps. Inside each half are compression straps so you can tighten up your clothing or cubes to squeeze in a little more, and put less strain on the zippers. One half even has a hanger bracket that fits two regular hangers (or the exact Tumi ones), ideal when you want to fold a couple maxi dresses, and lay them on top of a packing cube in that compartment.

Credit: Leatherology

What to Consider

The shoulder strap is long, and the pad placement can’t be adjusted, so it may be less comfortable for people shorter in stature to carry.

Not only has Leatherology made stunning passport wallets, laptop cases, and other smaller leather goods since 2008, it also produces our favorite luxury duffel for a long-weekend trip. During our tests, we were impressed by how supple the 100-percent leather felt. The bag is accented by three internal pockets including a large zippered one and a slip pocket on the outside, which is perfect for a phone, small wallet, and passport on the go. During our test, we found it very roomy, noting that it could fit even more with strategic packing and the use of compression cubes. It’s also a great alternative to a wheeled bag when you’re trekking on cobblestones or want to hand carry a bag instead.

Of course, as a huge fan of personalized luggage, this brand especially stands out for a range of monogramming options for your name or initials, including debossing, hand-painting, and (my personal favorite) puffy trapunto stitching for your initials. I own a smaller leather weekender tote and find both hand-carry styles to be a great alternative to a wheeled bag for those instances of uneven turf. Plus, these bags can double as an overnight bag for a short trip with the matching medium size, making a perfect gym bag.

The Details: Duffel | 23 x 14.2 x 12 inches (large) | Double top handles and 5-foot adjustable shoulder strap | Leather | One-year limited warranty

Credit: Travel + Leisure
Credit: Travel + Leisure

Credit: Carl Friedrik

Another luxury suitcase I’m proud to have in my collection is this Carl Friedrik “hybrid” trunk, named for its polycarbonate shell and durable aluminum frame. This latched trunk splits in an 80/20 shape which means the main 80-percent compartment fits larger items that checked bags can’t accommodate. It also includes three perfectly sized packing cubes and collapsible dividers, making it a great option for bulky items that won’t fit in a standard suitcase. Our updates editor Hillary Maglin confidently asserted these dividers and cubes would prevent items from shifting through even the roughest travels and baggage handling. We found the 20-percent zippered side to be a perfect fit for several pairs of shoes during our official lab tests. We also appreciated the exterior latches, as two of the three feature a lock for added security against accidentally pop in transit. There’s only one handle height option because of how tall this trunk is.

I’ve used this trunk since it launched in March 2024 (and have the coordinating Carry-on X, a personal favorite for its separate laptop compartment) and can further vouch for the quality. Our lab-tested trunk did get a small yet noticeable scuff from the baseball bat, and mine did as well from an aggressive Uber driver, but the only other marks were mild white scuffs on the corners after three months on various flights.

Zero Halliburton Classic Aluminum 3.0 International Carry-on 33L

Credit: Zero Halliburton

What to Consider

Tight turns can get tricky, especially when the bag is packed full, as the wheels tend to catch as they roll along.

Zero Halliburton is the brand we have to thank for the introduction of aluminum cases into our reality, and it’s no surprise they’ve really honed in on a durable zipperless case that stands the test of time. We shoved this luggage from a chest-high table several times, and took a metal baseball bat to it. Of course, it got a few scratches and a minor dent but not what one would expect after how rough we were. In fact, when directly targeting the latches and handles, our senior testing editor noted, “They were so strong, I feel like the bat would break before any part of the bag would break.” Even after continuing to use this bag for more than six months, checking it on various airlines, we’re impressed by its tip-top shape status with just a few scratches earned along the way.

The internal organization consisted of two compression pads, so you’d need to rely on travel pouches and packing cubes to get more organized inside. After packing it, we swerved through an obstacle course where our only gripe was the slight delay of the wheels with the speed we wanted to move. If you want to invest in an aluminum bag that you don’t want to be as precious about—especially if you have to check it in a last-minute gate-check scenario—this is the luxury bag we’d suggest adding to your cart next.

Credit: Amazon

While some airlines will allow you to travel with a softside garment sleeve to count as your carry-on as long as the total measurements are in line with the published rules, not all carriers don’t publish these rules explicitly, which can make travel risky. Plus, if you’re traveling with a garment bag to keep clothing pristine, chances are you won’t want to run the risk of having to check it in, especially if you have a tight connection or an important event to attend. We’ve tested garment bags on three separate occasions officially, and this one stands out, not just as a luxury bag, but as the best wheeled carry-on style we’ve tested.

We appreciated how this bag made use of space with corner pockets to fit additional clothing; outer pockets with room for a laptop, phone, charger, and other accessories; and even a power pocket to easily charge a phone. There was another a small pocket that we found perfect when stashing items from our pockets when going through the TSA checkpoints and an ideal spot for one pair of shoes. All this built-in organization made the capacity of this bag feel “unexpectedly large,” according to our tester.

It’s ideal for people who travel for work, or formal events, and it easily fit our male tester’s suit and dress clothes but he noted it would fit longer dresses as well.

Credit: Sterling Pacific

Sterling Pacific launched aluminum suitcases in 2021, and all of the details are high end from the suede interior and shiny silver X-strap buckles all the way to the included amenity kit with leather wax, a microfiber cloth, and an aluminum pen packed into a pouch that can also serve as a cosmetics case. This carry-on is also one of the most expensive bags we’ve ever tested in our lab, but our tests determined it’s well-worth the splurge as we all ooh’d and ahh’d over this bag in person.

Our senior testing editor, who now owns this bag, especially loved the soft leather handles spacious enough to fit your hand without discomfort (though that does mean they jut out and make the overall dimensions technically larger). Even the trolley handle is smooth with a leather-wrapped handle and several adjustable heights.

We loved that it was among the largest in capacity of the aluminum carry-ons we’ve tested at 40 liters of space, and it easily fit the packing list for a three-day trip with a little room to spare. It also includes a dust bag that you could use when checking the bag but also keeps it safe when stashed at home.

Dagne Dover Smaller Seattle Carry-on Luggage 20.5 Inches

Credit: Dagne Dover

What to Consider

Despite its small size, it can feel bulky rather quickly, especially if you take advantage of softside’s flexibility.

Softside bags may not traditionally be as luxe in appearance as hardside suitcases, but this one is definitely the exception. Dagne Dover is a brand favorite among our entire editorial team (and we got a sneak peek of the luggage before it launched in 2024). This small suitcase has the brand’s signature sheen, which looks more luxe than similar alternatives.

Featuring a clamshell shape that’s more rarely found in softside bags, we love the organization here, especially the U-shaped pocket that allows access to the main compartment without opening the entire suitcase and while it’s still standing upright. Our senior editor, Jasmine Grant, took this on a three-day trip to St. Thomas, and she loved the separate exterior pocket to stash a 13-inch laptop along with a smaller one to fit a jewelry pouch and a passport, plus how well the reinforced corners held up to its tumbles through terminals and taxis.

Tumi Alpha 3 Large Split 2-Wheeled Duffel

Credit: Amazon

Tumi was originally focused on leather items when the brand was founded in 1975, but I’d argue the durable ballistic nylon luggage they introduced to the world in 1983 is what they’re known for today. Nowadays, two-wheeled bags are less common, but softside rolling duffels are still needed for certain trips such as safari flights. Tumi’s trademark softside material was unfazed by repeated whacks, drops, and subsequent flights in our lab tests (but it did attract some dust from the cement pavers we wheeled it over).

I was present during this test and liked how easy it was to separate quick-access items into the multiple exterior pockets, a key feature when traveling with a bag featuring a huge open space. This way you can reach in and grab things from the trunk when you don’t want to fully open the bag. In fact, one exterior pocket is even water-resistant, ideal for a last-minute dip in the pool or to separate dirty boots after a hike. We also like how it’s possible to hand-carry this bag with the short straps—rarely possible in a 98-liter capacity bag—but it’s obviously hard to manage for a long distance when packed full.

Table of Contents

Our Testing Process

We’ve tested 771 travel bags and 339 wheeled suitcases in three years of lab tests at T+L. To evaluate performance, we examine each bag and then pack them to compare each capacity, while considering their available organization features and overall design.

Travel + Leisure

We then assess the overall weight of the bag to see if it’s manageable once full. Using the mock plane set in our testing lab, we hoist carry-ons into actual overhead bins, and slip personal items under seat so we can see how each bag fits. We also challenge maneuverability, rolling or carrying each bag around cones and stanchions to mimic a crowded airport and the TSA line, asessing the smoothness of the wheels, the sturdiness of the handles, and our overall journey together.

Travel + Leisure

If you’re investing in an eye-catching bag, you want to feel good using it and confident it will arrive at the destination in one piece. We test durability by whacking each suitcase with a baseball bat and pushing it off a chest-high table to see how easily it might dent while tumbling down the conveyor belt. Only after all the tests are complete do we look at the cost so we’re not swayed by (or overly harsh about) performance expectations based on a price tag.

The bags seen here all exceeded our expectations in order to make the initial list. All suitcases come home with our team so we can see how they hold up through actual flights, train journeys, and more, continuing to share our feedback for at least six months. We’re also constantly testing new models and reassessing this list to highlight the best of the best.

Tips for Buying Luxury Luggage

Consider the best brand for you

Luggage is an investment whether you travel once a month or once a year, and—as when shopping for anything—the brand matters. Whether it’s a name you trust from past experience or reputation, company values that align with your own, or simply an appealing aesthetic, figure out what is most important to you.

In some cases you’ll also need to narrow down the best material to help hone in on a choice. Some brands specialize in one type of bag, from supple leather to sturdy aluminum, and this can help you narrow things down.

Lastly, consider the brand’s key features—is it known for organizational details, bold colors, or innovative designs? Once you find a brand that really speaks to you, you may be more inspired to add matching items to your collection over time as your needs expand.

Remember durability is crucial

When investing in luggage, no matter the price tag, it’s essential to consider the durability of the suitcase. After all, an item that looks pretty but won’t hold up is like throwing money out the window. Luxury luggage often features more delicate materials such as aluminum and leather, so keep this in mind when shopping.

Examine all of the suitcase’s closures, as locking, trunk-style bags are typically more secure than zippers, which may become strained if you’re a consistent overpacker. Closely examine the handles and wheels in particular as those are often the most fragile and prone to breakage.

Determine the size you need

Be realistic about how you travel. If you are checking luggage most of the time, investing in an upscale carry-on is unlikely to change your packing tendencies overnight. Similarly, if you are someone who wants their luggage with them at all times (honestly, same), investing in a pricey checked bag can add stress to parts of the journey that are already out of your control.

If you’re truly undecided between carry-on and checked, you can opt for an expandable bag that can serve both purposes. Or, invest in a luxe personal item first, such as a leather overnight bag or a large everyday tote before committing to something with wheels and a higher price tag that won’t get as much use.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my luggage has a warranty?

We’ve linked to warranty information for all of the pieces here, but check the manufacturer’s website to find exact details for your specific suitcase. Each brand has a different policy, which sometimes varies from item to item; some cover the luggage for life and others for a shorter period, and there are often clear stipulations.

For example, even lifetime warranties are limited in nature and typically cover manufacturing defects only, such as faulty wheels, zippers, or handles. Most warranties do not cover normal wear and tear or cosmetic damage (like dents and scratches).

Often, the warranty is only valid if the bag is purchased directly from the brand’s website or retail location, not a third party or reseller, and you will likely need to show proof of purchase, so keep your receipt, and be sure to register your bag for the warranty as required.

Lastly, it makes sense to do your research and lightly test out your luggage at home when you first buy any bag to make sure it’s up to your standards. That way you can return it before it’s too late as most manufacturers will not offer a money-back guarantee, especially after the bag has been used.

Should I use a cover for luxury luggage?

While it comes down to personal preference, a luggage cover is a valuable addition, especially if traveling with aluminum cases. Dings may be inevitable, but slipping a cover onto your suitcase can safeguard against scratches when you’re lifting it in and out of a car and the overhead bins on airplanes.

If you check your luggage, a cover helps protect your investment from potential damage as it makes the journey from the check-in counter, through the cargo hold, and onto the carousel. However most covers also conceal the beauty of the suitcase itself, so you may want to wheel it bare through the airport, electing to put a cover on at the last possible second.

How do I clean my luggage?

Before using any product, consult the brand’s website for specific care instructions. If none are available, a soft microfiber cloth and mild dish soap is a good starting out point for most hardside bags. Always spot-test on a less visible area like inside a pocket or on the bottom of the case. Be extra careful with aluminum luggage by avoiding any cleaning solutions or cloths that contain abrasives because they can scratch the surface of the case.

You can remove scuffs with a Magic Eraser. Suede or leather details on bags should be cared for with a similar leather conditioner, leather wax, and waterproofing spray as you’d use on footwear. Wheels typically get the dirtiest and can often handle a stronger solution than the main case.

When it comes to the interior, some bags have a removable, machine-washable lining. If not, after vacuuming away dust and debris, wipe the interior with a Shout wipe (or mild soap and a damp cloth).

When not in use, it’s a good idea to add activated charcoal, baking soda, or another odor-removing product to reduce mustiness inside. Finally, most luxury luggage pieces include a dust bag to keep the bag clean when not in use. If not, you may want to purchase one or secure it in a trash bag to keep the exterior clean before storing it away.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Morgan Ashley Parker is an associate editorial director at T+L—and if her middle name wasn’t Ashley, it’d probably be luxury. She believes in matching her luggage to the destination, season, and trip type, and she personally owns more than 30 wheeled suitcases (and too many smaller travel bags to count). While her current high-end collection includes pieces from Hartmann, Rimowa, Tumi, Bric’s, Leatherology, Carl Friedrik, Briggs & Riley, and Dagne Dover, her most prized possession is a limited-edition gold Tumi 19 Degree International Carry-on, one of only 250 total pieces made in honor of the brand’s 50th anniversary in 2025.

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The 11 Best Luxury Luggage Pieces of 2025, Tested and Reviewed

Our Testing Process

Tips for Buying Luxury Luggage

Consider the best brand for you

Remember durability is crucial

Determine the size you need

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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Our Testing Process

Tips for Buying Luxury Luggage

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Remember durability is crucial

Determine the size you need

Frequently Asked Questions

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