Best Travel Luggage 2026 — Vacation Rental Guide

🏆 Top Pick

✈️

Away The Carry-On

Best Carry-On

Hard shell

Type

21.7" x 13.7"

Dimensions

7.1 lbs

Weight

Ejectable USB

Battery

$295–$365

Price

Pros

✓Fits all major US airline overhead bins — guaranteed compliance
✓Ejectable USB battery charges phone during gate waits
✓360° spinner wheels glide silently across every floor surface

Cons

✗TSA lock cannot be opened by owner if TSA cuts it — minor but worth noting
✗Polycarbonate shell dents if handled roughly by baggage crew

View on Amazon →

Amazon affiliate link — we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

🧳

Samsonite Omni PC 3-Piece Set

Best Set

3 (20", 24", 28")

Pieces

100% polycarbonate

Shell

TSA locks

Closure

4-wheel

Spinners

$249–$399

Price

Pros

✓Three sizes cover carry-on, checked, and oversized checked needs
✓Scratch-resistant textured surface hides wear from extended use
✓Micro-diamond texture reduces visible scratches between trips

Cons

✗Polycarbonate can crack under impact — not indestructible
✗Combined weight of all three pieces is substantial

View on Amazon →

Amazon affiliate link — we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

🎒

Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack

Best Backpack

40 liters

Volume

Travel backpack

Type

3 lbs 1 oz

Weight

Carry-on sized

Compliance

$199–$249

Price

Pros

✓Carry-on sized at 40L — avoids checked bag fees entirely
✓Panel-loader opens like a suitcase for easy packing and unpacking
✓Stowaway harness and hip belt tuck away when not in use

Cons

✗No spinner wheels — all weight carried on back for airport transit
✗Limited organization compared to luggage with dedicated compartments

View on Amazon →

Amazon affiliate link — we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

💼

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner

Best Value

Softside spinner

Type

25" checked

Dimensions

5.7 lbs (empty)

Weight

+2 inches

Expands

$149–$199

Price

Pros

✓Lightest checked bag in its class at 5.7 lbs — maximize clothing weight
✓Expandable feature adds 2 inches for return trips with souvenirs
✓Patented Sentry Suction Cup handle system damps vibration

Cons

✗Softside construction less protective for fragile vacation souvenirs
✗Expansion zipper can stick after years of use in humid conditions

View on Amazon →

Amazon affiliate link — we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Best Travel Luggage for Vacation Rentals

Away The Carry-On

Samsonite Omni PC 3-Piece Set

Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner

Looking for a Cottage to Rent?

More Vacation Rental Gear Guides