Traveling can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also requires some planning and preparation. One of the most important decisions you need to make is choosing the right suitcase for your trip. You want a suitcase that is durable, spacious, lightweight, and easy to carry. But you also don’t want to spend a fortune on it. That’s why we have compiled a list of the best affordable suitcases that will suit your needs and budget. Whether you are looking for a hard-shell, soft-shell, spinner, or duffel bag, we have you covered. Read on to find out more about our top picks and how to choose the best suitcase for you.
Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase
Crafted for the modern traveler, the Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase combines durability and convenience in a sleek design. The ABS+PC hard plastic shell undergoes rigorous quality control tests, ensuring a robust and resilient companion for your journeys. Sold separately, these suitcases can be nested, saving space when you opt for two or three.
Equipped with a 2-year warranty and a built-in TSA lock, your belongings stay secure throughout your travels. The quiet airplane spinner wheels and 100% pure aluminum telescoping handle offer effortless maneuverability, while the three-size options cater to diverse packing needs. The 28-inch suitcase expands, providing an additional 15% of scalable space.
Packing becomes a breeze with the fully lined interior and versatile organizational pockets. Experience the ease of travel with dimensions tailored to fit airline standards: 20 inches (21 x 8.5 x 15), 24 inches (17 x 10 x 24.5), and 28 inches (20.5 x 11 x 29). Weighing just 7 pounds, this suitcase is your stylish and reliable partner for any adventure. Upgrade your travel game with Coolife.
Pros:
- Durable ABS+PC hard plastic shell
- Strict quality control standards for sturdiness
- Nestable design for convenient storage
- 2-year warranty for peace of mind
- Built-in TSA lock for added security
- Smooth airplane spinner wheels
- Adjustable 3-level aluminum telescoping handle
- Fully lined interior with multi-use organizational pockets
- Three size options to suit different needs
- Expandable 28-inch suitcase for extra space
Cons:
- Small suitcase not expandable
- Limited to 28-inch size for expansion
Amazon Basics Expandable Luggage Suitcase
Embark on your next adventure with the Amazon Basics Expandable Luggage Suitcase, a sleek 20.4-inch international carry-on crafted for the discerning traveler. Boasting a built-in TSA lock for enhanced security, this softside spinner combines style with functionality.
Effortlessly navigate bustling airports with the four double-wheeled spinners and a sturdy telescoping handle, ensuring smooth rolling and easy maneuverability. Strategic support stabilizers prevent tipping, while crash-guard wheel housings, a skid guard, and molded corner guards provide comprehensive protection.
Compact yet capacious, the outer dimensions measure 14.9 x 8.2 x 20.4 inches (including wheels), with a spacious interior of 13.7 x 7 x 16.5 inches. With a generous 26-liter capacity, it packs with confidence, weighing only 6.35 lbs. Experience the perfect blend of durability and style as you embark on your journeys with this premium suitcase. Travel smart, travel light, and let the Amazon Basics Expandable Luggage Suitcase redefine your travel experience.
Pros:
- Premium build for savvy travelers
- Built-in TSA lock for added security
- Four double-wheeled spinners for easy maneuverability
- Sturdy telescoping handle for comfortable rolling
- Strategic support stabilizers prevent tipping
- Protective features: crash-guard wheel housings, skid guards, molded corner guards
- Compact outer dimensions ideal for international carry-on
- Spacious 26-liter interior capacity
Cons:
- A weight of 6.35 pounds may be considered relatively heavy by some travelers
Level8 Elegance Carry On Suitcase
Level8 Elegance Carry-On Suitcase redefines the art of travel with its sleek design and innovative features. Crafted from ultra-lightweight 100% PC materials, the 20-inch suitcase boasts a 3-layer PC Matte surface, ensuring not just style but sturdy protection for your belongings. The matte finish adds a touch of sophistication, making a statement wherever you go.
Effortless maneuverability is achieved through the multi-directional double spinner wheels and a retractable handle, while the recessed TSA Lock ensures security during international journeys. The organizer set, exclusive to the LEVEL8 Elegance Matte Series, includes 4 packing cubes in various sizes, facilitating smarter packing for your travels.
Inside, a spacious fully-lined interior awaits, featuring a zipper divider and multiple pockets for optimal organization. With an overall dimension of 21.5 x 14.6 x 9.3 inches (including wheels and handles), and a weight of 7.72 pounds (8.71 pounds with cubes), this suitcase offers a packing capacity of 41L – perfect for 1-3 day trips. Elevate your travel experience with the Level8 Elegance Carry-On Suitcase – where style meets functionality seamlessly.
Pros:
- Sleek and stylish design with a 3-layer PC Matte surface
- Ultra-lightweight construction using 100% PC materials
- Multi-directional double-spinner wheels for easy maneuverability
- Recessed TSA Lock for enhanced security during international travel
- Spacious fully-lined interior with zipper divider and multiple pockets
- Organizer set included with 4 packing cubes for smarter packing
- Suitable for 1-3 day trips with a packing capacity of 41L
Cons:
- Limited to the LEVEL8 Elegance Matte Series for the organizer set
- Matte surface may show scratches more prominently
- Available in a 20-inch size, may not be suitable for longer trips
Anyzip Lightweight USB Suitcase
Travel hassle-free with the Anyzip Lightweight USB Suitcase, a sleek 21-inch companion designed to effortlessly accompany you on your flights. Its compact dimensions (15.7 inches x 9 inches x 22.2 inches) adhere to airline standards, allowing you to breeze through without the need for checking.
Equipped with a built-in USB charging port, this suitcase becomes your on-the-go power hub. Slip in your power bank, connect it to the integrated interface, and enjoy convenient charging without even opening your luggage. The TSA Customs Lock ensures security without the worry of damage during inspections, providing peace of mind as you navigate through checkpoints.
Crafted from the golden ratio composite material of ABS+PC, this suitcase boasts a perfect blend of strength and flexibility. The durable construction withstands the rigors of travel, offering reliability you can count on. With a two-year warranty, our dedicated after-sales team is ready to address any concerns, ensuring your satisfaction throughout your journeys. Travel smart, travel light, with the Anyzip Lightweight USB Suitcase – your trusted companion in every adventure.
Pros:
- Compact 21-inch size adheres to airline standards
- Built-in USB charging port for convenient on-the-go charging
- TSA Customs Lock provides reliable security during inspections
- Durable ABS+PC composite material offers a perfect balance of strength and flexibility
- Two-year warranty with responsive after-sales support
Cons:
- TSA locks do not come with keys
Luggex Expandable Hard Shell Suitcase
Discover the epitome of travel sophistication with the Luggex Expandable Hard Shell Suitcase. Sized at 22x14x9 inches and weighing only 7.0 pounds, this navy blue travel companion is meticulously designed for the modern explorer. Crafted with 45% thicker polycarbonate, it stands resilient against extreme temperatures, providing a sleek fortress for your belongings. The 4 round aluminum corner protectors ensure unparalleled durability, safeguarding your essentials during any journey.
Unleash your packing potential with an extra 2 inches of space, allowing you to seamlessly blend style with functionality. Effortlessly navigate through crowds with the 360° spinner wheels, offering silent, smooth mobility. The TSA-approved locks and double-ended zip make airport security a breeze, offering peace of mind throughout your travels.
Backed by a free 3-year warranty, the LuggeX black 22x14x9 carry-on luggage promises reliability. Our dedicated customer service team is ready to assist within 12 hours, ensuring your adventures are stress-free. Elevate your travel experience with a suitcase that combines innovation, durability, and style.
Pros:
- Reinforced 100% aluminum corner protectors for superior durability.
- 45% thicker polycarbonate construction for lightweight resilience.
- 15% more packing space with navy blue expandable design.
- Effortless 360° spinner wheels for smooth, silent mobility.
- TSA-approved locks and double-ended zip for hassle-free security.
- It comes with a free 3-year warranty and responsive customer service.
Cons:
- Limited color options available.
- Maybe on the higher end of the price spectrum.
Buying Guide for the Best Affordable Suitcases
Whether you’re a frequent traveler or only take a trip now and then, having a reliable, durable, and affordable suitcase is essential. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to find one that checks all the right boxes without breaking the bank. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know when shopping for an affordable suitcase.
Material
One of the most important factors to consider is what material your suitcase is made from. Hardside suitcases are typically made of polycarbonate or ABS plastic. These materials are lightweight yet very durable and resistant to cracking or breaking. The downside is that they lack flexibility. Softside suitcases are usually crafted from ballistic nylon, polyester, or microfiber. These fabrics are flexible, lightweight, and water-resistant while still being tough. Though not as hardy as plastics, they’re less prone to scratching. Microfiber is the most lightweight. Ballistic nylon is inexpensive but heavier. Polyester often strikes the best balance between cost, weight, and durability.
Size
Think about what size suitcase would best suit your needs. For shorter trips, a medium 24- to 26-inch suitcase should suffice. For longer vacations, a larger 28–30-inch size keeps you from running out of packing space. Check airlines’ size restrictions too; some discount carriers limit carry-on bags. Measure your trunk space if you are transporting by car. Opt for a 2-wheel case for brief trips and a 4-wheel spinner for longer excursions. The extended handle on spinners provides easier maneuverability.
Compartments
Interior compartments help keep your belongings neat and organized. Look for suitcases with tie-down straps, zippered pockets, and segmented areas. Some also have wet/dry pockets for separating damp items or toiletries. Compression straps allow you to cinch down contents to create more space. Shoe storage compartments are handy for keeping dirty soles separate. Avoid bags with a wide-open interior; your clothes will get jumbled.
Durability
Look for reinforced corners on soft side bags or double-walled construction on hard sides – this protects vulnerable impact points. Sturdy zippers that move smoothly indicate better quality. Telescoping handles should retract and extend smoothly. Wheels will receive heavy wear – opt for in-line skate wheels in hard rubber or polyurethane. Metal ball-bearing wheels roll more easily. For budget-friendly bags, plastic wheels suffice if well-mounted.
Security
Affordable suitcases often integrate TSA-approved locks to deter theft. Combination locks allow TSA agents to inspect bags via designated master keys. Look for bags with lock reinforcements along the zipper lines. RFID-blocking materials prevent the hacking of microchipped passports or credit cards. Wrapping handles or double spinner wheels also enhance stability and deter tampering.
Price
With frequent sales and promotions, affordable suitcases can be found for $50-$150 for softside and $100-$250 for hardside. Avoid the cheapest bags that seem like an amazing deal – their poor construction often leads to breakage after a few uses. Spend slightly more for better materials, wheels, handles, and zippers that improve durability. With the right care, an affordable but well-made suitcase can last for years of enjoyable travels.
Conclusion
Finding a budget-friendly suitcase with quality construction doesn’t require an exhaustive search. Focus on the right size, materials, compartments, and durability-enhancing features. Compare brands and prices to get the best value. Paying attention to details like zippers and handles ensures your affordable investment will carry you through many voyages to come. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Question
What features should I look for in an affordable suitcase?
When considering affordability, prioritize durability, wheel quality, size options, and weight. Look for suitcases made from sturdy materials like polycarbonate or ABS plastic, with smooth-rolling wheels and a lightweight design.
Are hard or soft-sided suitcases better for affordability?
Both hard and soft-sided suitcases can be affordable options. However, soft-sided suitcases are often cheaper due to their materials and construction. They are also more flexible and can often fit into tight spaces better than hard-sided options.
Can I find affordable suitcases with TSA-approved locks?
Yes, many affordable suitcase models come with TSA-approved locks. These locks provide added security while traveling and are designed to be opened by TSA agents if they need to inspect your luggage without damaging it.
Are there any affordable suitcase brands known for their quality?
Yes, several affordable suitcase brands are known for offering good quality products at reasonable prices. Some popular options include AmazonBasics, Samsonite, American Tourister, Travelpro, and Rockland.
How do I choose the right size of an affordable suitcase for my needs?
Consider the duration and purpose of your trip when selecting the size of your suitcase. For short trips, a smaller carry-on size may suffice, while longer trips or family vacations may require larger checked luggage. Make sure to check the airline’s size and weight restrictions to avoid additional fees.