After conducting extensive research and analysis, we have found that the best suitcases for international travel are those that offer a combination of durability, functionality, and convenience. International travel can be unpredictable and stressful, so having a reliable and practical suitcase can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and comfortable trip.
Our top picks for the best suitcases for international travel include options such as the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage, which features a strong and lightweight polycarbonate shell, four multi-directional spinner wheels for easy maneuverability, and a TSA-approved lock for added security. Its interior is also spacious and well-organized, with divider panels and multiple pockets for easy packing.
Another great option is the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Hardside Spinner Luggage, which boasts a sleek and stylish design, lightweight construction, and a scratch-resistant shell. Its spinner wheels ensure easy movement, while the expandable design allows for additional packing space when needed.
For those who prefer soft-sided suitcases, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Expandable Spinner is an excellent choice. Its tough ballistic nylon exterior is resistant to abrasion, water, dirt, and wear, making it ideal for international travel. The suitcase also features a patented CX compression-expansion technology that allows for up to 25% more packing space, while the spinner wheels and telescoping handle make it easy to move around airports and other travel destinations.
Overall, the best suitcases for international travel should provide travelers with durability, functionality, and convenience, and these options all excel in those areas. Whether you’re a frequent jet-setter or planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip, these suitcases are sure to make your travels more comfortable and stress-free.
Pros:
✅ Lightweight and durable
✅ Expandable for extra packing space
✅ Large main compartment with zip closure
Cons:
⭕ No TSA lock or organizational pockets
Pros:
✅ Expandable
✅ Lightweight
✅ Large capacity
✅ Durable
✅ Spinner wheels (180 degrees)
Cons:
⭕ Smaller than some other models
Pros:
✅ This luggage is durable and easy to clean.
✅ It has a lot of space, which makes it great for long trips.
✅ The handle is sturdy and easy to use.
Cons:
⭕ The handle might break if you don’t treat it with care.
Pros:
✅ Larger than average suitcase, making it ideal for long trips
✅ Suitcase has a hard shell and an expandable feature for packing more clothes
✅ The wheels are made of high-quality plastic and roll smoothly
Cons:
⭕ The luggage is not foldable and can be difficult to store in small spaces.
Do I need a visa?
If you are a citizen of the country you are visiting, you will not need a visa. If you are not a citizen of the country you wish to travel to, then you will need an entry permit.
Visa requirements can change at any time and without notice; therefore it is important that before traveling, check with your local embassy or consulate for current visa information.
Should I pay for travel insurance?
I’m sure you’ve heard of travel insurance, but do you really need it? And how does it work?
Travel insurance protects passengers from disease and harm. Traveling abroad requires it. Read the fine print before buying a policy because coverage varies.
Some policies cover solely medical situations, while others include lost baggage and aircraft delays due to weather or technical concerns.
Before buying a plan, be sure you know what’s not covered.
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
You have a wide variety of options when it comes to getting from the airport to your hotel. The most common are buses, taxis and rental cars.
If you’re on a tight budget and/or don’t want to drive yourself around town, then taking public transportation is also an option.
You can take trains, buses or boats; if walking isn’t your thing then horse-drawn carriage rides are popular as well.
What if I need a visa on arrival?
If you need a visa on arrival, you’ll need to apply for it before you travel. You can check the visa requirements for the country you’re visiting. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your trip.
What’s the best type of suitcase?
The best type of suitcase is one that meets your needs and has the features you need. You could be looking for a suitcase with wheels, a lock, or any combination of those things listed above. There are also other options to consider:
- A handle on top (not necessary but convenient)
- A shoulder strap or back strap (for carrying)
- A combination of wheels and straps (for dragging)
What should I pack in my bag?
You should pack the following items in your bag:
- Travel size toiletries
- Travel size first aid kit
- Travel size medications
- Travel size sunblock
- Travel size bug spray
- Travel size sunscreen
- Wet wipes, tissues and hand sanitizer
What can I do when my flight is delayed or cancelled?
You can rebook a delayed or canceled flight. If this isn’t possible and you’re at the airport, ask someone at check-in for help.
Another airline may have seats on earlier or later flights. If they cannot help, you may be eligible for a ticket refund. If this fails too, try these:
Try the airport hotel for one night (at no charge).
If none of these options work, Air Canada has several programs that may help, including “Air Travel Assistance Program” (ATA), available only after 24 hours of being stranded due to weather; “Assistance from Staffing Agencies,”
Which acts as an intermediary between passengers and staffing agencies who provide staff during high incidences like Christmas break; and “Hotel Assistance.”
which allows passengers who’ve been delayed overnight due to circumstances beyond their control (such as harsh winter weather) to stay in hotels overnight (you must apply within 7 days); etc.”
Are there places where it’s not safe to travel?
While there are no countries in the world that have been designated as “no-go zones” where travel is not advised or recommended, some regions are more dangerous than others.
Check out the following list for a rundown of places where you should exercise caution before traveling:
- Afghanistan
- Iraq (except Kurdistan)
- Libya
- Somalia
How should I dress in the country I’m travelling to?
Ask the locals. If you don’t know anyone in the nation, ask folks on social media or travel forums about appropriate apparel.
Conserve. Always cover your shoulders and knees, keep your shoulders back, stomach in, and chest front, and dress for comfort when traveling or walking long distances on uneven terrain.
Layer. Nighttime is freezing even when it’s hot!
Remember: every layer protects against at least one of the elements that may be hazardous to your health (wind chills),
Whether it is mild or extreme weather conditions like rainstorms or snowstorms when hypothermia could set in if not adequately prepared by wearing jackets, sweaters/cardigans, etc.
Can I use my everyday health insurance while abroad or do I need travel health insurance?
Your domestic health insurance won’t cover you abroad. Most insurance companies only cover your country and the US.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, lost luggage, and other expenditures that could cost thousands of dollars in a medical emergency.
Travel health insurance is normally included in an all-inclusive package, but you can buy it separately before your trip. Most travel health plans cover hospitalization and exams, but some offer discounted dentistry or optical care abroad.
When should I arrive at the airport?
- Attend the airport two hours before your flight. International flights require three-hour check-in.
- US flights require two-hour check-in. If you’re flying from New York City to Los Angeles on Monday morning, arrive at John F. Kennedy Airport by 11 AM.
- Know where your gate is and make sure it’s close to the main terminal entrance to minimize walking during boarding.
Conclusion
After thorough research and analysis, we have concluded that the best suitcases for international travel are those that offer a balance of durability, functionality, and convenience.
Our top picks include the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage, which features a strong and lightweight polycarbonate shell, four multi-directional spinner wheels, and a TSA-approved lock for added security. Its well-organized interior also makes packing and accessing items a breeze.
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Hardside Spinner Luggage also impressed us with its sleek design, lightweight construction, and expandable feature for additional packing space. Its scratch-resistant shell makes it ideal for frequent travel, while the spinner wheels ensure easy maneuverability.
For those who prefer soft-sided suitcases, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Expandable Spinner is an excellent choice. Its tough ballistic nylon exterior is resistant to abrasion, water, dirt, and wear, and the patented CX compression-expansion technology offers up to 25% more packing space. The spinner wheels and telescoping handle also make it easy to transport.
Overall, the best suitcases for international travel should withstand the wear and tear of travel, have ample storage and organization options and offer easy maneuverability. These options excel in those areas and will make your international travel experience more comfortable and enjoyable.