Ideal luggage options for college students.
Heading off to college is an exciting time, filled with new experiences and the promise of a bright future. But with all that excitement comes the daunting task of packing your life into a suitcase and transporting it to your new home. Choosing the right luggage can make all the difference in keeping your belongings safe, organized, and easily accessible throughout your college journey.
From durable hard-shell suitcases to lightweight duffel bags, there’s a wide array of options available to suit every student’s needs and budget. Whether you’re a minimalist who travels light or a packing pro who brings everything but the kitchen sink, finding the perfect college luggage is essential for a smooth and stress-free move-in day.
This year, we’ve compiled a list of 15 top-rated college luggage options, carefully curated to provide the best combination of functionality, durability, and style. We’ve considered everything from size and weight to features like wheels, compartments, and water resistance. Our goal is to help you find the ideal luggage that will carry you through your college years, from move-in day to weekend getaways and everything in between.
So, get ready to unpack the ultimate guide to college luggage and discover the perfect companion for your exciting journey ahead.
Amazon Basics Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels
A budget-friendly option that offers great value for the price. This hardside luggage is durable, expandable, and comes with spinner wheels for easy maneuverability.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Size: 21 inches
- Weight: 7.5 pounds
- Capacity: 47 liters
- Features: Expandable, spinner wheels, TSA-approved lock
Reasons to buy:
- Affordable price
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Expandable design for extra packing space
- Smooth spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
Reasons to avoid:
- May not be as high-quality as more expensive brands
- Limited color options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You need a durable and expandable suitcase
- You want a suitcase with smooth spinner wheels
Don't buy it if:
- You're looking for a luxury suitcase
- You need a suitcase with a wide range of color options
Bottom Line:
The Amazon Basics Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels is a great option for budget-conscious travelers who are looking for a durable and functional suitcase. It's expandable, has smooth spinner wheels, and comes with a TSA-approved lock. While it may not be as high-quality as some of the more expensive brands, it offers great value for the price. This makes it a perfect choice for those who are looking for a reliable and affordable suitcase for their next trip.
Monos Carry-On Suitcase
Read more on 22 Best Luggage for International Travel in 2024
A stylish and functional carry-on suitcase that is perfect for frequent travelers. This hardside suitcase is made from durable polycarbonate and has a sleek design with a built-in TSA-approved lock.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Size: 21.5 inches
- Weight: 7.6 pounds
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Features: Spinner wheels, TSA-approved lock, built-in packing cubes
Reasons to buy:
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Sleek and stylish design
- Smooth spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
- Built-in packing cubes for organization
Reasons to avoid:
- More expensive than some other carry-on suitcases
- Limited color options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a stylish and durable carry-on suitcase
- You travel frequently and need a suitcase that is easy to maneuver
- You appreciate the convenience of built-in packing cubes
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You need a suitcase with a wide range of color options
Bottom Line:
The Monos Carry-On Suitcase is a great choice for frequent travelers who value style and functionality. It's made from durable polycarbonate, has a sleek design, and comes with smooth spinner wheels and a built-in TSA-approved lock. The included packing cubes also help keep your belongings organized. While it's more expensive than some other carry-on suitcases, the quality and features make it a worthwhile investment.
Away Bigger Carry-On
A popular choice for travelers who need a spacious carry-on suitcase. This hardside suitcase is made from durable polycarbonate and has a unique design with a built-in battery pack.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Size: 22 inches
- Weight: 8.2 pounds
- Capacity: 40 liters
- Features: Spinner wheels, TSA-approved lock, built-in battery pack
Reasons to buy:
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Spacious interior
- Smooth spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
- Built-in battery pack for charging devices on the go
Reasons to avoid:
- More expensive than some other carry-on suitcases
- Can be heavy when fully packed
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You need a spacious carry-on suitcase
- You travel frequently and need to charge your devices on the go
- You appreciate the convenience of a built-in battery pack
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You're looking for a lightweight suitcase
Bottom Line:
The Away Bigger Carry-On is a great choice for travelers who need a spacious carry-on suitcase and appreciate the convenience of a built-in battery pack. It's made from durable polycarbonate, has smooth spinner wheels, and comes with a TSA-approved lock. While it's more expensive than some other carry-on suitcases and can be heavy when fully packed, the spacious interior and built-in battery pack make it a worthwhile investment.
Travelpro Crew 11 21-Inch Expandable Spinner Wheel Suitcase
A popular choice for frequent travelers who need a durable and expandable suitcase. This hardside suitcase is made from durable polycarbonate and has a unique design with a built-in TSA-approved lock.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Size: 21 inches
- Weight: 9.4 pounds
- Capacity: 48 liters
- Features: Spinner wheels, TSA-approved lock, expandable
Reasons to buy:
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Expandable design for extra packing space
- Smooth spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
- Lightweight design
Reasons to avoid:
- More expensive than some other suitcases
- Limited color options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You need a durable and expandable suitcase
- You travel frequently and need a suitcase that is easy to maneuver
- You're looking for a lightweight suitcase
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You need a suitcase with a wide range of color options
Bottom Line:
The Travelpro Crew 11 21-Inch Expandable Spinner Wheel Suitcase is a great choice for frequent travelers who need a durable and expandable suitcase. It's made from durable polycarbonate, has smooth spinner wheels, and comes with a TSA-approved lock. While it's more expensive than some other suitcases and has limited color options, the quality, durability, and expandability make it a worthwhile investment.
Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels
Read more about this on 20 Best Luggage Tracker Choices for Secure Travel
A stylish and durable hardside suitcase that is perfect for those who want a luxurious travel experience. This suitcase is made from durable polycarbonate and has a sleek design with a built-in TSA-approved lock.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Size: 21 inches
- Weight: 9.5 pounds
- Capacity: 48 liters
- Features: Spinner wheels, TSA-approved lock, expandable
Reasons to buy:
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Sleek and stylish design
- Smooth spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
- Expandable design for extra packing space
Reasons to avoid:
- More expensive than some other suitcases
- Limited color options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a stylish and durable suitcase
- You want a suitcase that will make a statement
- You're willing to pay a premium for quality
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You need a suitcase with a wide range of color options
Bottom Line:
The Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels is a luxurious and stylish suitcase that is perfect for those who want a high-quality travel experience. It's made from durable polycarbonate, has smooth spinner wheels, and comes with a TSA-approved lock. While it's more expensive than some other suitcases and has limited color options, the quality, style, and durability make it a worthwhile investment.
Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels
A durable and reliable hardside suitcase that is perfect for frequent travelers. This suitcase is made from durable polycarbonate and has a sleek design with a built-in TSA-approved lock.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Size: 21 inches
- Weight: 9.8 pounds
- Capacity: 50 liters
- Features: Spinner wheels, TSA-approved lock, expandable
Reasons to buy:
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Sleek and stylish design
- Smooth spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
- Expandable design for extra packing space
Reasons to avoid:
- More expensive than some other suitcases
- Limited color options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You need a durable and reliable suitcase
- You travel frequently and need a suitcase that is easy to maneuver
- You're looking for a suitcase with a spacious interior
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You need a suitcase with a wide range of color options
Bottom Line:
The Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels is a durable and reliable suitcase that is perfect for frequent travelers. It's made from durable polycarbonate, has smooth spinner wheels, and comes with a TSA-approved lock. While it's more expensive than some other suitcases and has limited color options, the quality, durability, and spacious interior make it a worthwhile investment.
IT Luggage World's Lightest California 2-Piece Set
A lightweight and functional luggage set that is perfect for those who are looking to travel light. This set includes a carry-on suitcase and a checked suitcase, both of which are made from durable polycarbonate and have a sleek design with a built-in TSA-approved lock.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Size: Carry-on: 21 inches, Checked: 28 inches
- Weight: Carry-on: 6.5 pounds, Checked: 9.5 pounds
- Capacity: Carry-on: 40 liters, Checked: 80 liters
- Features: Spinner wheels, TSA-approved lock, lightweight design
Reasons to buy:
- Lightweight design
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Sleek and stylish design
- Smooth spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
Reasons to avoid:
- More expensive than some other luggage sets
- Limited color options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a lightweight luggage set
- You travel frequently and need a suitcase that is easy to maneuver
- You need a luggage set that is durable and functional
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You need a luggage set with a wide range of color options
Bottom Line:
The IT Luggage World's Lightest California 2-Piece Set is a great choice for those who are looking for a lightweight and functional luggage set. It's made from durable polycarbonate, has smooth spinner wheels, and comes with a TSA-approved lock. While it's more expensive than some other luggage sets and has limited color options, the lightweight design and durability make it a worthwhile investment.
Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 20-Inch Expandable Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels
A stylish and functional hardside suitcase that is perfect for those who are looking for a budget-friendly option. This suitcase is made from durable polycarbonate and has a sleek design with a built-in TSA-approved lock.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Size: 20 inches
- Weight: 7.5 pounds
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Features: Spinner wheels, TSA-approved lock, expandable
Reasons to buy:
- Affordable price
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Sleek and stylish design
- Smooth spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
Reasons to avoid:
- Limited color options
- May not be as high-quality as more expensive brands
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a stylish and functional hardside suitcase
- You're on a tight budget
- You need a suitcase that is easy to maneuver
Don't buy it if:
- You're looking for a luxury suitcase
- You need a suitcase with a wide range of color options
Bottom Line:
The Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 20-Inch Expandable Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels is a great choice for those who are looking for a stylish and functional hardside suitcase at an affordable price. It's made from durable polycarbonate, has smooth spinner wheels, and comes with a TSA-approved lock. While it has limited color options and may not be as high-quality as some of the more expensive brands, it offers great value for the price.
American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels
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A durable and reliable hardside suitcase that is perfect for those who are looking for a budget-friendly option. This suitcase is made from durable polycarbonate and has a sleek design with a built-in TSA-approved lock.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Size: 21 inches
- Weight: 7.8 pounds
- Capacity: 42 liters
- Features: Spinner wheels, TSA-approved lock, expandable
Reasons to buy:
- Affordable price
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Sleek and stylish design
- Smooth spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
Reasons to avoid:
- Limited color options
- May not be as high-quality as more expensive brands
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a durable and reliable hardside suitcase
- You're on a tight budget
- You need a suitcase that is easy to maneuver
Don't buy it if:
- You're looking for a luxury suitcase
- You need a suitcase with a wide range of color options
Bottom Line:
The American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels is a great choice for those who are looking for a durable and reliable hardside suitcase at an affordable price. It's made from durable polycarbonate, has smooth spinner wheels, and comes with a TSA-approved lock. While it has limited color options and may not be as high-quality as some of the more expensive brands, it offers great value for the price.
Eddie Bauer Skyward Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels
A stylish and durable hardside suitcase that is perfect for those who are looking for a quality travel companion. This suitcase is made from durable polycarbonate and has a sleek design with a built-in TSA-approved lock.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Size: 21 inches
- Weight: 8.2 pounds
- Capacity: 45 liters
- Features: Spinner wheels, TSA-approved lock, expandable
Reasons to buy:
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Sleek and stylish design
- Smooth spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
- Expandable design for extra packing space
Reasons to avoid:
- More expensive than some other suitcases
- Limited color options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a stylish and durable hardside suitcase
- You need a suitcase that is easy to maneuver
- You're willing to pay a premium for quality
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You need a suitcase with a wide range of color options
Bottom Line:
The Eddie Bauer Skyward Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels is a great choice for those who are looking for a stylish and durable hardside suitcase. It's made from durable polycarbonate, has smooth spinner wheels, and comes with a TSA-approved lock. While it's more expensive than some other suitcases and has limited color options, the quality, style, and durability make it a worthwhile investment.
Rockland Melbourne 2-Piece Luggage Set
A budget-friendly option with a classic design and expandable capacity.
Specifications:
- 2-piece set includes a 20-inch carry-on and a 24-inch checked bag
- Made from durable ABS plastic
- Features spinner wheels for easy maneuverability
- Expandable for extra packing space
Reasons to buy:
- Affordable price point
- Durable construction
- Expandable for added packing capacity
- Smooth-rolling spinner wheels
Reasons to avoid:
- May not be as high-quality as some other options
- Limited color options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget and need a basic but functional luggage set
- You're looking for a set that expands for added packing space
Don't buy it if:
- You need a set with a higher level of durability
- You're looking for a set with more features or a wider range of colors
Bottom Line:
The Rockland Melbourne 2-Piece Luggage Set is a great value for the price, offering a durable and expandable set for those on a tight budget. It may not be the most stylish or feature-packed option, but it will get the job done. If you need a basic and functional luggage set for college, the Rockland Melbourne is a solid choice. However, if you're looking for a higher-end set with more features or durability, you may want to consider other options.
SwissGear 1900 24-Inch Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Suitcase
Read more about this on 16 Best Luggage with Durable Wheels
A stylish and durable hardside suitcase with a sleek design and expandable capacity.
Specifications:
- 24-inch hardside suitcase with spinner wheels
- Made from durable polycarbonate
- Features TSA-approved locks for added security
- Expandable for extra packing space
Reasons to buy:
- Durable and scratch-resistant polycarbonate construction
- Sleek and modern design
- Expandable for added packing capacity
- Smooth-rolling spinner wheels
- TSA-approved locks for added security
Reasons to avoid:
- Relatively expensive compared to other options
- Limited color options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a durable and stylish hardside suitcase
- You need a suitcase with expandable capacity for extra packing space
- You value security and want TSA-approved locks
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You need a suitcase with a wider range of color options
Bottom Line:
The SwissGear 1900 24-Inch Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Suitcase is a high-quality and stylish option for those looking for a durable and expandable suitcase. Its sleek design, durable polycarbonate construction, and TSA-approved locks make it a great choice for college students who value style and security. However, its price point may be a deterrent for some budget-conscious shoppers.
Coolife 2 Piece Luggage Set
A versatile and affordable luggage set with a durable hardside design and multiple sizes.
Specifications:
- 2-piece set includes a 20-inch carry-on and a 24-inch checked bag
- Made from durable ABS plastic
- Features spinner wheels for easy maneuverability
- Expandable for extra packing space
- Includes a built-in combination lock
Reasons to buy:
- Affordable price point
- Durable construction
- Expandable for added packing capacity
- Smooth-rolling spinner wheels
- Built-in combination lock for added security
Reasons to avoid:
- May not be as high-quality as some other options
- Limited color options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget and need a durable luggage set
- You're looking for a set that expands for added packing space
- You need a set with a built-in combination lock for added security
Don't buy it if:
- You need a set with a higher level of durability
- You're looking for a set with more features or a wider range of colors
Bottom Line:
The Coolife 2 Piece Luggage Set is a great value option, offering a durable and expandable luggage set with a built-in combination lock for added security. It's a great choice for budget-conscious students who need a reliable luggage set for college. However, if you're looking for a higher-end set with more features or durability, you may want to consider other options.
Amazon Basics Softside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels
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A budget-friendly softside option with a lightweight design and expandable capacity.
Specifications:
- Softside expandable suitcase with spinner wheels
- Made from durable polyester fabric
- Features multiple compartments and pockets for organization
- Expandable for extra packing space
Reasons to buy:
- Affordable price point
- Lightweight design
- Expandable for added packing space
- Multiple compartments and pockets for organization
- Smooth-rolling spinner wheels
Reasons to avoid:
- May not be as durable as hardside suitcases
- Limited color options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget and need a lightweight and expandable luggage option
- You need a suitcase with multiple compartments and pockets for organization
Don't buy it if:
- You need a suitcase with a high level of durability
- You're looking for a suitcase with more features or a wider range of colors
Bottom Line:
The Amazon Basics Softside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels is a great value option for those looking for a lightweight and expandable suitcase. Its multiple compartments and pockets make it a great choice for organization, and its affordable price point makes it a budget-friendly option. However, if you need a suitcase with a high level of durability, you may want to consider a hardside option.
Ricardo Beverly Hills Beverly Hills 21-Inch Expandable Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels
A stylish and durable hardside suitcase with a sleek design and expandable capacity.
Specifications:
- 21-inch hardside suitcase with spinner wheels
- Made from durable polycarbonate
- Features TSA-approved locks for added security
- Expandable for extra packing space
Reasons to buy:
- Durable and scratch-resistant polycarbonate construction
- Sleek and modern design
- Expandable for added packing space
- Smooth-rolling spinner wheels
- TSA-approved locks for added security
Reasons to avoid:
- Relatively expensive compared to other options
- Limited color options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a durable and stylish hardside suitcase
- You need a suitcase with expandable capacity for extra packing space
- You value security and want TSA-approved locks
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You need a suitcase with a wider range of color options
Bottom Line:
The Ricardo Beverly Hills Beverly Hills 21-Inch Expandable Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels is a premium option for those looking for a stylish and durable hardside suitcase. Its sleek design, durable polycarbonate construction, and TSA-approved locks make it a great choice for college students who value style and security. However, its price point may be a deterrent for some budget-conscious shoppers.
Choosing the right luggage for college can be a daunting task, but it's an important investment in your comfort and convenience. Whether you're looking for a durable suitcase for long-distance travel or a lightweight backpack for daily commutes, the options on this list offer something for everyone.
Remember, the best luggage for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors like size, weight, durability, and features. Don't hesitate to read reviews from other students to get a better sense of what works best for different travel styles.
Ultimately, the right luggage will help you stay organized, make packing and unpacking easier, and ensure your belongings are protected throughout your college journey. With the right luggage by your side, you can focus on what truly matters: making the most of your college experience.
So, pack your bags, grab your favorite luggage from this list, and get ready for an unforgettable college adventure!
Karim 
Bilal