The Best-Looking, Most Affordable Luggage for Your Upcoming Vacation

We’re well aware that Wake-Up Call readers are obsessed with Quince’s affordable cashmere sweaters, but did you know they made high-quality, low-priced suitcases, too? This one costs less than $200 and performs on par with brands well above this price bracket. It comes in two colors, has a polycarbonate shell that can withstand even the clumsiest traveler, and is outfitted with Japanese-crafted Hinomoto 360-degree wheels that won’t wobble around when you’re scurrying to your connecting flight.

When Away came on to the luggage scene in 2015, the brand upended the travel industry with its DTC business model, exciting colors, and sleek silhouettes. Katie Couric Media’s affiliate content manager Justine Carreon has owned hers for over five years, and it still looks brand new. She ran through Atlanta’s concourse for 15 minutes straight with her Away carry-on smoothly sailing behind her. The brand continues to make reliable travel items, but they’ve updated this model to have expandable sides, perfect for overpackers.

If you’ve seen the viral video about how easy it is for intruders to get into your suitcase, we have the product to quell your fears: a zipperless suitcase. Our absolute favorite comes from Monos. This “unbreakable” option is made from an aluminum and polycarbonate frame that clasps on the side with two TSA-approved locks. It might be at the top of your budget, but Monos lets you test it out for 100 days, after which you’ll receive a lifetime guarantee and the brand will fix or replace your suitcase for free. Peace of mind is worth every penny — and the added bonus is that it looks this chic, too.

Not all spinner suitcases are created equal. This one is a little steeper in price than you’d expect from Amazon Basics items, but let the 30,000 five-star customer reviews convince you to make the investment. Many rave about its easy maneuverability at the airport, durable shell exterior, and lightweight build (because when you’ve done a little shopping abroad, every pound matters).

For those who want to travel in style, look to Béis. Founded by the equally stylish Shay Mitchell, this brand is notorious for shelling out the cutest travel products, like this berry-hued suitcase from the brand’s latest drop, the Sherbet Collection. And with over six thousand reviews on this carry-on alone, you can rest-assured this is a club you’ll be proud to be in when you spot another Béis at your terminal. 

This Brandless suitcase appeals not only to those who want a great basic choice, but to eco-conscious travelers too. With an interior lining “made with recycled PET plastic,” your money is going to a company that values recycled material. And the fact that it’s made of reused plastic doesn’t affect its integrity: One reviewer says, “136 flights later my bag has almost no marks and has no damage.”

If you prefer a suitcase that’s lightweight yet roomy, this Nordstrom find may be the way to go. It’s a hard suitcase that has a ton of interior pockets, so reviewers consistently report that it’s very easy to pack. One reviewer raved about the brand, stating, “I love the swivel wheels, they make traveling easy.” And because Vacay’s luggage comes in fun colors (like this electric blue style), you’ll instantly spot it at baggage claim. 

If you’re taking off for just a couple of days, you may not want to fuss over a whole suitcase. That’s where this versatile, cloth-and-leather weekender bag comes in — it’s a soft and durable piece that you can absolutely stuff with clothes. It also includes a separate shoe compartment that will keep your dirty soles from rubbing against your vacation outfits. The gold details bring a pretty, elegant touch so that you can travel in style. One reviewer is over the moon about how well this bag performs on short trips: “I am 1000% satisfied with my purchase. The price was right and it truly gives you the best value for your money. I cannot recommend this bag enough. Get it!”

It’s hard to find a sturdy suitcase set for less than a couple-hundred bucks these days, especially if you prefer hardshell luggage. But if you’re open to traveling with soft suitcases, you can find really good deals on bundles. American Tourister has been outfitting travelers for decades, and they’ve been relied upon for good reason. This four-piece set will have you covered no matter what your journey. It comes in four colors, and in three-piece, four-piece, and five-piece options. 

Having a great suitcase is crucial, but a lot of us make the mistake of tossing our tiniest essentials into overstuffed bags. We often end up digging around for our chargers, cords, small devices, and tech accessories, with said digging always happening at the worst times. If you’re sick of suffering in the long run, you can prevent the chaos by investing in a tech organizer. You’ll never lose an AirPod at the bottom of a backpack again.