As a world-schooling mum and professional travel writer, I’ve spent lots of time hauling luggage through airports as well as countless trains, buses and cars. In just the past two years, I’ve travelled to sixteen countries, including international destinations such as Japan, Peru and Zambia, where I’ve required the best check-in suitcases that could squeeze in a lot and put up with lots of connecting flights (aka more bashing around).
Initially, I was using any old suitcases I had lying around the house, but the more I travelled, the more I needed high-quality, durable luggage. The first time I trundled out of my house at the crack of dawn with a new, lightweight suitcase, complete with four silent spinner wheels, I knew what I’d been missing out on. It didn’t turn over on every bump and cobble, it didn’t make an irritating clattering noise and I managed to fit in all my essentials and more without bursting the zipper.
I can confidently say that the difference between the best suitcase and an average one is night and day. It really does make all the difference when travelling. And now I’m here to share the very best check-in suitcases I’ve found with you.
Read more: Best cabin bags, reviewed
The best suitcases for 2026 are:
- Best overall – Antler soft stripe check in: £255, Antler.co.uk
- Best budget buy – Trip holiday 8 large suitcase, £69.50, Amazon.co.uk
- Best lightweight design – Horizn h6 essential: £440, Horiznstudios.co.uk
- Best large design – Gomatic method luggage check-in: £420, Gomatic.co.uk
- Best medium design – M&S Oslo hard shell medium suitcase: £105, Marksandspencer.com
Read more: Best luggage brands, chosen by experts
