Travel

It’s Time for an Upgrade: The Best Travel Bags for Every Budget

written by BRETT NICOLE HAYDEN

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Graphics by: Aryana Johnson
Graphics by: Aryana Johnson

I’m always dreaming up my next getaway and am constantly looking forward to the next time I’m wheels-up on the runway. But, just like my bank account after the holidays, my current luggage set has seen better days. And if you’re anything like me, you forgot to add a new suitcase to your last holiday wish list. Needless to say, it’s time replace that set that’s older than your passport (be sure to check the expiration date on that thing, by the way—even the best travel bags can’t save you from the TSA).

Maybe your upcoming travel plans include a family spring break road trip, a much-needed couples excursion, one too many work trips, or a girls getaway you’ll be talking about for years to come. No matter the occasion, you’ll need luggage sturdy enough for the journey. That’s why we’ve gathered all the best travel bags in one place. From chic backpacks that make for the perfect personal item to the ultimate checked bag for even the most egregious over-packer, we’ve got you covered. Read on for the best travel bags for every budget (each section is organized from least to most expensive for an easy shopping experience). 

Backpacks

For those glorious times when you’re just traveling with a checked bag and a personal item, backpacks are the perfect option. They’re spacious enough to fit everything you could want on a flight but not so big that they take up all the foot space under the seat in front of you. We’ve found some of the most highly-rated backpacks from reputable brands that are perfect for your next getaway. 

Amazon | KROSER
Laptop Backpack
7 colors and patterns available
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Amazon | CHERUTY
Anti-Theft Backpack
20+ colors available
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leather laptop backpack
Target | Universal Thread
Utility Backpack
2 colors available
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Target | Open Story
Commuter Backpack
4 colors available
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Lululemon
New Crew Backpack
4 colors available
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calpak laptop backpack
CALPAK
Luka Laptop Backpack
14 colors available
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Athleta
Excursion Backpack
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CALPAK
Kaya Laptop Backpack
20+ colors available
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AWAY
Convertible Backpack
4 colors available
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Andar
Addison Leather Backpack
12 colors available
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Weekenders and Duffels

Nothing beats a long weekend away. Whether you’re flying or taking a road trip somewhere, you’ll need the perfect piece of luggage to travel with. That’s why we love having a quality duffel bag on hand. Many brands you know and love have excellent options to help you pack for your weekend away.  

Amazon | HYC00
Travel Duffel Bag
20+ colors available
Shop now
Amazon | Dimayar
Travel Duffle Bag
20+ colors and patterns available
Shop now
Target | Universal Thread
Duffel Weekender Bag
5 colors and patterns available
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Target | Open Story
Weekender Bag
2 colors available
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herschel co. duffel bag
Amazon | Herschel Supply Co
Novel Duffel Bag
11 colors and patterns available
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BÉIS
Weekender Bag
9 colors available
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CALPAK
Stevyn Duffel
10 colors and patterns available
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lululemon duffle bag
Lululemon
Command the Day Large Duffle Bag
2 colors available
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AWAY
F.A.R. Duffle
9 colors available
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Dagne Dover
Landon Carryall
9 colors available
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Carry-Ons

It seems like every time I go to book a flight, the fees for checked bags keep going up and up. Whenever possible, I choose to travel with a carry-on to make the trip even slightly more affordable (more money for airport snacks, am I right?). Plus, nothing beats not having to engage in hand-to-hand combat trying to get through baggage claim. These carry-on options are perfect for your next trip. 

Target | Made By Design
Carry-On Spinner Suitcase
5 colors available
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Target | American Tourister
Hardside Carry-On
8 colors available
Shop now
Amazon
Hardside Spinner Carry-On
4 colors available
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Quince
Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase
5 colors available
Shop now
Amazon | Samsonite
Freeform Hardside Carry-On
15 colors available
Shop now
BÉIS
The Carry-On Roller
7 colors available
Shop now
CALPAK
Carry-On
5 colors available
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AWAY
The Carry-On
9 colors available
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Monos
Carry-On Pro
13 colors and patterns available
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CALPAK
Terra Carry-On
4 colors available
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Checked Bags

Of course, there are certain trips for which even the most spacious carry-on just won’t work. When that time comes, a checked bag sturdy enough to withstand being tossed around by airport employees is a must. Your favorite brands have options with plenty of rave reviews for your next must-have travel investment. 

Amazon
Hardside Spinner
4 colors available
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light pink hardshell suitcase
Target | Open Story
Hardside Large Checked Suitcase
5 colors available
Shop now
Amazon | Samsonite
Hardside Expandable Luggage
10 colors available
Shop now
QUINCE
Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase
5 colors available
Shop now
Kohl's | Samsonite
Hardside Spinner Luggage
2 colors available
Shop now
large calpak suitcase
CALPAK
Trnk Large Luggage
3 colors available
Shop now
BÉIS
Check-In Roller
7 colors available
Shop now
monos check in suitcase
Monos
Check-In Suitcase
13 colors and patterns available
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away travel bag
AWAY
The Large
9 colors available
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AWAY
The Medium Flex
6 colors available
Shop now