Pros: Both sides can be fully zipped up
Cons: No compression straps, handle can be temperamental
Dimensions: 77.4cm x 49.5cm x 30.4cm
Weight: 4.5kg
Warranty: Lifetime limited warranty
Away’s the large flex suitcase
Trendy brand Away is probably best known for its sleek carry-on case, but its large suitcase is equally impressive. One of our writers actually used this case when she moved countries and particularly loved the in-build compression pad, removable interior lining and the leather luggage tag that it comes with. Another clever feature worth noting is the addition of a handle underneath, allowing for easier grip when you need to lift it, plus the expandable zip that allows for an extra 4.45cm of space.
Pros: multiple colour options, comes with a wash bag and leather luggage tag
Cons: prone to scuffing, colours sell out quickly, on the heavier side
Dimensions: 73.7cm x 52.1cm x 31.8cm
Weight: 5.6kg
Warranty: limited lifetime warranty
Briggs & Riley’s medium expandable spinner
With three jewel tone shades to choose from, this Briggs & Riley looks great on the outside. Inside it’s even better, particularly if you like to stay organised with multiple pockets. On one side there are three zip-up mesh pockets – one large and two small. On the other are very clever adjustable garment compression panels. Instead of the usual zip style, these open out into two flaps and are easily secured together with two buckles, so it’s easier to fit more while still neatly securing everything in place.
Pros: secure compression panels, unlikely to scuff
Cons: on the heavier side
Dimensions: 68.5cm x 47cm x 29cm
Weight: 5.5kg
Warranty: lifetime guarantee
Rimowa’s Check-In M
As part of the LVMH group, German designer luggage brand Rimowa has some of the slickest suitcases on the market. While they’re probably best known for their aluminium cases, the check-in medium case is made from an ultralight polycarbonate shell that comes in four different glossy shades and one matte. While not every traveller will be open to the high price tag, if you’re a frequent flyer looking for the best in looks and function, this is a worthy investment.
Pros: lightweight, unlikely to scuff
Cons: the price
Dimensions: 67cm x 45.2cm x 24.1cm
Weight: 4kg
Warranty: lifetime guarantee
Brics Bellagio four-wheel suitcase
If we had to pick our favourite luggage in terms of looks, it would be Brics’ Bellagio range. The classic cream case with tan leather trim – even the enlarged spinner wheels are tan – is the epitome of Italian elegance. While the case looks timeless, it does feature a range of modern details such as a water repellant zip with TSA-approved lock and an adjustable handle.
Pros: classic look, three-position adjustable handle
Cons: leather trim requires more maintenance to clean, no compression straps
Dimensions: 76cm x 53cm x 29cm
Weight: 4.6kg
Beis Travel’s the 26” check-in roller
Beis Travel has paired their sleek minimalist design with plenty of storage space for their 26” check-in roller. The case has an expandable zip that allows for 5 centimetres of extra room, as well as a very clever weight limit indicator to ensure you don’t overpack. To use it, simply lift the case up and if the indicator next to the handle goes red, the case is over the weight limit. Inside, the case has a great range of zip up compartments and pockets as well as compression flaps and straps, plus a built-in laundry bag labelled ‘dirt bag.’
Pros: weight limit indicator, unique interior pocket design
Cons: none that we can see
Dimensions: 71.1cm x 40.6cm x 27.9cm
Weight: 5.4kg
Warranty: Lifetime limited warranty
