One thing I’ve learned while shopping for luggage is there are a ton of different brands that do mostly the same thing, but each offers something different enough to make the decision difficult. Finding the brand you like before trying to narrow it down to the specific line of luggage may make it easier if you’re trying to shop for quality and reputation, rather than just price. Here’s a quick overview of some of the brands and the quality you can expect.
Rockland
Rockland Luggage is usually at the lower end of the price spectrum. While there are sets that run over $100, they don’t get much more expensive than that. Overall, they focus on products that are brightly colored and provide a wow factor with patterns. Their options are not very business oriented and though the price is right, durability has been called into question.
Samsonite
Samsonite is one of the gold standards of moderately priced luggage. Samsonite pieces are common for both business and personal use, and they tend to be durable. Most of the range is moderately priced, but getting an entire set from particular lines could end up costing quite a bit. They focus on clean lines and functional cases that will last.
Delsey
Delsey Luggage remains nestled in the middle price range, and though the pieces can be slightly more expensive than that, they are generally well received at any price. They have light weight options for those of you who don’t want to lug around a heavy bag, and they also offer spinner wheels on most pieces. Delsey has quite a few hardside cases that feature polycarbonate exteriors, making them pretty durable.
Pierre Cardin
Pierre Cardin features luggage sets with reasonable price tags, but they have the look of something that costs a lot more. They tend to be durable, and they will last a long time. Many of their options are patterned however, and they may not be the best bet for business use. The patterns are classy and not outlandish, but they may still be a little wild for business.
American Tourister
American Tourister offer pieces that range from entry level to those that are moderately priced. They tend to stick to softside, more basic luggage though some do come in brighter colors. You’ll want to check the wheels on these though. Some of the American Tourister options still use the older style, in-line wheels instead of the latest spinner wheels.
Athalon
Athalon specializes in duffles of all kinds and prints. These are not business travel bags, and they are not famous for being terribly durable. Many people default to these bags for quick trips or to give to young people thanks to their often vibrant and exciting designs.
TravelPro
TravelPro Luggage is not cheap, but they are not the most expensive either. TravelPro bags are often used by airline employees like pilots and flight attendants. They’re made to be refined while still having the flexibility that is necessary.
Briggs & Riley
Briggs & Riley comes in above most other brands price point. The smallest and least expensive bags run into about $200 and can go much higher than that. Briggs & Riley is a good place to begin your search if you’re looking for business travel options that will last. They are not perfect bags, but they are made with the business traveler in mind.
WallyBags
WallyBags feature only garment bags, and they stick to the one kind because they have a patent on the technology used to hold your belongings. Some people use WallyBag as their entire suitcase because the bags tend to be roomy, but they can’t be hung in the closet once you arrive at your destination because of the proprietary hanger locking mechanism. You can also get WallyBags with the logo of your favorite team if you want your luggage to support your sports interest.
US Traveler
US Traveler offers luggage sets in just about every color without a hefty price tag. They’re not likely to be bags you keep with you for the rest of your life, but they are inexpensive enough that replacing them won’t break your heart. US Traveler options are sold mostly in sets, and each of the pieces match. Just remember they come in pretty “out there” colors or patterns.
And More
Other inexpensive options are available like Olympia, Beverly Hills Country Club and Traveler’s Choice. They all tend to have the same pros and cons including bright colors and rolling luggage with questions about durability. One higher end option to keep in mind is Cenzo. They offer old-school style in durable leathers that are absolutely gorgeous.