6 luggage brands that perfectly blend style and function

Samsonite is synonymous with tough, travel-ready luggage. Its suitcases, particularly those made from its pioneering Roxkin and Curv materials, are some of the lightest, yet strongest hardshell luggage out there. That means less lugging, more rolling, and durable shells that withstand rough baggage handling.

Practical features like double wheels for a silky-smooth ride, divided interiors with handy pouches (including compression pouches that maximise space), and personalisation options make Samsonite one of the best luggage brands for all-round performance.

Types available: Hardshell, softshell, aluminium, backpacks, totes, kids’ ride-on suitcases

Warranty: Up to 10-year limited global warranty (varies by product)

Key features:

• Double wheels for a smooth ride
• Divided interiors with handy pouches, some with compression features
• Some models offer personalisation

Chic and functional, Melbourne-founded July ticks all the boxes. Its hardshell suitcases, made with aerospace-grade German polycarbonate, are incredibly tough yet strikingly light.

July’s signature SilentMove wheels make wheeling your bag a joy, even across cobblestones or gritty terrain. Limited-edition colours and the option to personalise your suitcase with your name or initials ensures spotting your bag at baggage claim is a breeze.

For a seamless journey, add a set of colourful packing cells or compression packing shelves that you can hang in your hotel room’s wardrobe or shower rail, and a tech kit for stashing your cables.

Types available: Hardshell suitcases, carry-ons, large and small totes, backpacks, travel accessories

Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty (varies by product)

Key features:  

• TSA-approved locks
• Ejectable battery (USB-C) for charging on the go
• Stain and odour-proof laundry bags
• 100-day return policy
• Seasonal limited-edition colour releases
• Limited lifetime warranty on all luggage (varies by product)

Based in Melbourne and certified B Corp, Bellroy has a reputation for thoughtful design. Its luggage range features slim hardshell and softshell suitcases alongside accessories that keep you organised while travelling.

Expect clever touches on suitcases like telescopic handles with an underside push button, smooth-gliding silent wheels, and packing cells that double as internal dividers.

Bellroy’s modular approach to design means your luggage can adapt to business trips, holidays, and everything in between. You can even purchase replaceable wheels, handles, locks and packing cells to keep your suitcases rolling for years.

Types available: Hardshell and softshell luggage, backpacks, slings, totes, travel wallets, tech pouches

Warranty: 10 years on luggage, 6 years on bags  

Key features:  

• Telescopic handles with multiple heights
• Silent, replaceable wheels
• Removable and modular packing cells
• Integrated TSA locks
• Recycled and eco-friendly materials

Antler brings the best of British design and practicality to Kiwi travellers. Its hardshell Icon Stripe and softshell Soft Stripe ranges, found at The Iconic, combine lightweight durability, spacious dimensions, and enduring quality.  Perfect for anything from quick weekend getaways to extended adventures, these versatile bags also stand out for their colourful, bold design.

Types available: Hardshell suitcases, softshell cases, weekenders, carry-ons

Warranty: A limited lifetime warranty for suitcases purchased from 15 May 2023, and a 10-year warranty for suitcases purchased before this date

Key features:

• Light and spacious soft and hard shell options
• Trendy design details and a wide range of colours
• Smooth-rolling wheels
• Reinforced corners for impact resistance
• External pockets for quick access

Osprey is one of the best luggage brands for adventurers who expect their gear to take a beating. Its travel packs and duffels are built with reinforced materials, plenty of compartments for gadgets and gear, and ergonomic fits for comfort on the move. Osprey stands out for its body fit customisation (with various pack sizes and adjustability) and a true “one bag for a lifetime” mentality.

Types available: Hiking packs, travel backpacks, soft duffle bags, day packs

Warranty: All Mighty Guarantee (lifetime warranty covering repair or replacement)

Key features:  

• Water-resistant materials
• Multiple compartments for efficient packing
• Customisable fit (adjustable harness and straps)
• Easily accessible pockets and external gear loops

New York-based Briggs & Riley is favoured by business travellers and frequent globetrotters. Its streamlined, sophisticated luggage is crafted from premium materials and loaded with technical advantages, like shock-absorbing spinner wheels and patented compression-expansion systems that optimise packing space.

Types available: Hardshell and softshell suitcases, rolling garment bags, duffles, underseat bags, backpacks

Warranty: Simple as That lifetime guarantee for functional damage

Key features:  

• Patented compression-expansion technology
• TSA lock compliance
• High-grade spinner wheels
• Smartlink straps for connecting multiple bags
• Understated, classic style