Luggage Recommendations: Europe

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mentalinc

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#323350 21-Nov-2025 21:30

Hi All

Keen to get some thoughts on suitcases for checked luggage. Don't need cabin bags.

Will be flying economy so needs to fit within the normal 23kg type allowance.

Seems there is a very large range in pricing, but unclear on the longevity that comes with the price points.

Weighing up hard vs soft if anyone has views either way. Main pro for hard is more waterproof if it rains.

American Tourister, Samsonite and Nere seem to be short list brands so far.

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mrdrifter

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#3436540 21-Nov-2025 22:53

I picked up an American tourister one about 12 years back and been happy enough with it.

Hard sided, not the biggest size but plenty for a few weeks packed well , used across planes, trains, buses and cars. It's been all around NZ, to multiple countries in Europe twice (held up to lots of cobbles in Italy on two trips), the US 3 times, Aus a couple of times, Vanuatu, China and Japan. It got most scuffed up in the US airports.

It's only just starting to show signs of possible minor stress around the zip stitching. For the ~$140 or so I paid on special, it's been fine and would probably just replace with the same. I do think the newer ones are a bit thinner plastic though.

TwoSeven

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#3436541 21-Nov-2025 22:55

I always do what is called now ‘one bag travel’. I have an AER travel pack 3, but am going to switch to a peak design travel pack. I have a relatively good day sling as well.

one bag travel uses a small airline approved style pack, packing cubes for organisation and minimalism. What I like apart from not having to wait for luggage, is that it’s also much easier to get around.

Apart from essentials, I buy stuff I need at the destination.

a good web site is packhacker for ideas on things related to travel.

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alasta

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#3436600 22-Nov-2025 11:14

mrdrifter:

I picked up an American tourister one about 12 years back and been happy enough with it.

Another vote for this brand. I've had mine for eight years and I think I paid $230 for it. It's done a few overseas trips, and a lot of domestic trips with no significant wear and tear.

I previously had a Delsey suitcase purchased around 2010. The lock failed when I was in New Caledonia in 2016 and it turned into a major drama as I had to use force on the zip to gain access but couldn't buy a replacement suitcase to fly home with the following day as the shops over there are shut on Sundays. Eventually I hacked together a solution, but the lesson is buy good quality and replace your suitcase as soon as you detect any signs of impending failure.