Best travel luggage to invest in this summer

From smart carry-ons with built-in tech to fun cases for children, there's something for everyone

Buying the right luggage can make travelling easier. Photo: Eminent Luggage / Unsplash

Whether you’re heading for a short break, a beach escape in South-east Asia or a family trip back home, packing can be stressful. But with the right luggage, it doesn’t have to be.

Smart packing is essential, not only for convenience but also to conform to ever-changing airline regulations. Be sure to check baggage guidelines in advance, especially for cabin restrictions, weight limits and security rules.

When choosing luggage, prioritise cabin-friendly dimensions – typically around 55 x 40 x 23cm for most airlines – and opt for lightweight yet durable materials such as polycarbonate, aluminium or ballistic nylon. Smooth 360° spinner wheels, telescopic handles and internal organisation compartments are also must-haves, especially for seamless airport navigation.

Look out for features that simplify travel: expandable compartments, built-in garment sleeves, USB ports or tech organisers. Investing in a quality carry-on bag can save time and hassle and always weigh checked-in baggage before leaving for the airport to avoid surprise fees.

The best luggage blends style with practicality and the right choice can make all the difference. Here are eight pieces of luggage to consider.

Budget cabin bag: IT Luggage Lite Black Cabin

The IT Lite Cabin bag weighs just 1.56kg but offers 39 litres of space. Photo: IT Luggage

Known as the “world’s lightest soft cabin” luggage, the IT Lite Cabin bag weighs just 1.56kg but offers 39 litres of space. This Emirates-approved cabin bag is a light packer’s dream. Functionality comes in the form of smooth in-line wheels, a handy exterior pocket, a shoe pouch, a wet pouch and an expandable body which gives up to 25 per cent more space. It also comes with a five-year warranty.

Dh325.27; Amazon.ae

Premium cabin: Samsonite Proxis Global Carry-On Spinner

Samsonite developed Roxkin, a durable, multilayered material, for the casing on its luggage. Photo: Samsonite

Samsonite’s featherlight 55cm carry-on case is built from space-tested Roxkin. At only 2.2kg, it delivers remarkable durability, dual spinner wheels for easy mobility, and expandable capacity. The eye-catching design comes in several bold colours, including green, gold and silver. It also has a 10-year warranty.

Dh2,130; Samsonite.ae

For children: Flyte Darwin the Dinosaur ride-on suitcase

Children will enjoy this suitcase that doubles up as a scooter. Photo: Flyte

This suitcase transforms into a scooter to entertain children and help them move swiftly through the airport. Featuring Darwin the Dino, it has 25 litres of interior space, LED roller wheels and a sturdy shell. Ideal for fun airport transport and adventures once you arrive at your destination.

Dh574.70; Amazon.ae

Best luggage set: Antler Single Stripe Suitcase Set

Antler’s Single Stripe set, which comes with three pieces, is worth the investment. Photo: Antler

Minimalist and bold, Antler’s Single Stripe set is designed for every kind of journey, featuring three hard‑side cases in carry‑on, medium and large sizes. Lightweight yet durable, each is crafted with a recycled lining, smooth custom wheels and a stylish signature stripe. Designed to maximise space and ease, this trio is perfect for the style-conscious or families who love to match.

Dh2,825; antler.com

Luxury specialist: Tumi Alpha 3 Continental Carry‑On

The Tumi Alpha 3 Continental Carry-On has a built-in USB port and a garment sleeve for keeping clothes fresh. Photo: Tumi

Perfect for solo summer escapes or short trips, the Tumi Alpha 3 Continental Carry-On is compact, functional and effortlessly sleek. With dual front access for easy packing, a built-in USB port to stay charged on the go and a garment sleeve for keeping clothes fresh, it’s made for smooth, stylish travel. Lightweight yet ultra-durable, it’s a go-to for summer weekend getaways and spontaneous city breaks.

Dh4,460; Tumi.ae

Lifetime investment: Rimowa Original Trunk Plus

The Rimowa Original Trunk Plus is made in Germany from anodised aluminium. Photo: Rimowa

Made in Germany from anodised aluminium, the Rimowa Original Trunk Plus is designed for long-haul travel. Its distinctive vertical shape maximises interior space, while the smooth-rolling multi-wheel system and TSA-approved locks ensure seamless, secure journeys. Engineered for durability and elegance, this is an heirloom-quality investment for travellers who value craftsmanship, innovation and style. It’s now available in a striking new bronze colour.

Dh5,435; Rimowa.com

Ultra-luxury statement: Louis Vuitton Horizon 70

The Louis Vuitton Horizon 70, crafted in Monogram canvas with leather trim, has a 58-litre capacity. Photo: Louis Vuitton

The Louis Vuitton Horizon 70 is the pinnacle of travel sophistication, crafted in Monogram canvas with leather trim and sleek aluminium accents. Designed in collaboration with industrial designer Marc Newson, it has a 58-litre capacity, flat-bottomed interior, dual zipped dividers and ultra-smooth double wheels. A wide aluminium trolley system ensures stability, while thoughtful extras such as a bag holder and protective cover elevate every journey.

Dh21,484; louisvuitton.com

For boutique travel: Bric’s Bellagio 21" Carry-On

Bric’s Bellagio 21" Carry-On is ideal for stylish short-haul trips. Photo: Bric's

Combining refined Italian craftsmanship with smart functionality, the Bric’s Bellagio 21-inch Carry-On is ideal for stylish short-haul trips. Made of recycled polycarbonate with elegant leather accents, it features a front tech sleeve with USB access, a TSA lock and an expandable zip for added capacity. Inside, a compression system keeps items in place, while 360° spinner wheels and a sturdy aluminium handle ensure smooth, effortless manoeuvring. It is compact, durable and timelessly elegant.

Dh1,652; Bric's UAE