Tried-and-Tested Family Travel Luggage Winners

by Jessica Howell

Tried and tested. And then tried again. And tested again. They might be a little beat up, but these are the luggage pieces that we go back to again and again.

In fact, if I could recommend three items that every travel-hungry parent adds to their gear wish list, these would be top. (Can we normalize adding luggage to baby registries?!)

Convenient to pack, a breeze to carry or pull, and easy to use are the descriptors that each of these suitcases have in common. But most importantly, their high quality is what makes them stand apart from the other options in the marketplace. Well, that and their classic good looks (no trendy zippers or colorways here!).

Let’s get to it…

Best Family Backpack / Duffel

The Hideaway Carry-On Duffel: Clearly designed by parents, this do-it-all duffel converts to a backpack (with straps that can be fully removed, too) while still maintaining carry-on status for your next flight. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, you can slip out the packing organizer – my favorite part! – and simply hang it up in your closet in the ultimate act of toddler wardrobe convenience.

Handy exterior pockets are perfect for keeping snacks chilled (yep, there’s an insulated pocket) or storing wet wipes, a laundry bag is tucked inside for storing smelly garb, and handles on three of the four sides mean you can easily grab and go.

Sold by No Reception Club

Best Carry-On Suitcase

The Ride-On Roller: Simply lift the backrest and this smooth-rolling carry-on becomes a quasi stroller for your little while zooming through the airport. With a seatbelt that latches them in and a retractable hand pull, it makes for a safe spot to save toddler feet from all those long terminal hallways. When you get to the gate, the 220-lb weight limit means that you can likely pop down for a respite yourself!

Inside, the spacious interior allows you to cram in all the goods for a weekend escape, which stay protected thanks to the hard shell exterior and zipper closure. We opted for black, but you can find this handy helper in a variety of candy-colored shades!

Sold by MiaMily

Best Checked Luggage Suitcase

The Rolling Trunk: It’s got a hefty price tag, but this is the bottomless bag to invest in when you’ve got a family to haul. We bought one prior to our trip around the globe and not only did it hold up beautifully, it is truly one of the easiest rolling suitcases I’ve ever owned (which says A LOT given its gigantic size!).

That said, I’ll never not recommend a Briggs & Riley suitcase for any traveler. The quality is excellent and the warranty puts my mind at ease. In fact, I’m still using the rolling duffel suitcase that I received 20 years ago; it’s been everywhere with me and still keeps on trucking!

Sold by Briggs & Riley