Top 20 Best Luggage For Teens (2024)

Luggage for teens

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Looking for the best luggage for teens? Then you’re in just the right place!

This guide to all the most awesome teenage suitcases, backpacks, underseat bags, and even a rolling duffel has been written to make it easy for you to find a great carry-on or checked bag for your teen or tween. 

Whether you’re seeking luggage for a teenage girl or boy, the options here cover all bases. There are super stylish cases for fashionistas, plus rugged luggage for outdoor types. The options really do cover all tastes, budgets, and requirements. 

The winner is:

Delsey Paris Helium Aero

A photo of DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage.

The Delsey Paris Helium Aero is the best teenage luggage because it’s ultra-lightweight, super tough, uber stylish, and even has a padded laptop sleeve to protect valuable equipment. Whatever size or set you to choose, it also comes with a 10-year warranty. 

✏️Note from the editor: Jody here! As a mom of a teen, I know how rough kids can be on luggage – that 10-year warranty is pretty awesome. Also, this one is stylish, but won’t stand out so (hopefully) they won’t be embarrassed by it or roll their eyes at it. 🤞🏼


This guide covers what to look for when buying the best luggage for teens, and includes bags to see them through any trip – from a few days away to a year-long adventure. From cute luggage for tweens to cases that could last a lifetime, you can find whatever it is that will please your teen right here. 

From the best carry-on luggage for a teenager to a checked bag from a top brand with a 10-year warranty, read on to find the top 20 options when it comes to top luggage for teens!

How to use this guide

Before we begin, a quick note on how to find just what you want!

To make it more user-friendly, we’ve divided the most awesome products into categories so it’s easier to find what you’re looking for. Whether that’s an individual case, a backpack, or cute luggage sets for teens.

Many options, however, are offered in various sizes. So if there’s one you like the look of in a different section, it’s worth clicking on the link to see what the options are. The categories, therefore, are just to speed things up, but there may be some overlap.

The Best Luggage for Teens-Comparison Chart

Picture of ItemCollectionTypeSizeKey featuresPrice

A photo of DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage.
🏆Delsey Paris Helium AeroHardside suitcase19” (+ other sizes)Padded laptop sleeve, stylish & tough, 10-year warrantyCheck here

A photo of American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Expandable Luggage.
American Tourister MoonlightHardside carry-on21” (+ other sizes)10-year warranty, 6 colors, 1.5” expansionCheck here

A photo of American Tourister Star Wars Hardside Luggage.
American Tourister Star WarsHardside carry-on21”Character designs, 360 spinner wheels, fully linedCheck here

A photo of Steve Madden Designer 20 Inch Carry On Luggage.
Steve Madden Softside carry-on20”Designer looks, 5-year warranty, lightweight yet toughCheck here

A photo of Lily Bloom Carry On Expandable Design Pattern Luggage.
Lily BloomSoftside carry-on20”12 patterns, many compartments, 4-liter expansionCheck here

A photo of black Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB Port.
Samsonite Underseat carry-on16.5”Padded laptop sleeve, USB port, fits under seatCheck here

A photo of Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Lightweight Underseat Carry-On Travel Tote.
Travelpro Maxlite Underseat carry-on18”3 ways to carry, weighs under 2 lbs, underseat design Check here

A photo of Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Checked Luggage.
Travelpro MaxliteSoftside suitcase25” (+ other sizes)Range of sizes, ultra-lightweight, stain & water resistantCheck here

A photo of Amazon Basics suitcases.
Amazon BasicsSoftside suitcase30” (+ other sizes)Good value, lots of space, easy to maneuverCheck here

A photo of SwissGear 7272 Energie Expandable Hardside Luggage.
SwissGear EnergieHardside suitcase27” (+ other sizes)TSA locks fitted, 10-year warranty, double spinner wheelsCheck here

A photo of Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable.
Samsonite FreeformHardside suitcase28” (+ other sizes)Recessed TSA locks, ultra-tough, 10-year warrantyCheck here

A photo of Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel Bag.
Eagle Creek No Matter WhatRolling duffel104 litersLifetime warranty, ultra-durable, integral storage pouchCheck here

A photo of Osprey Daylite Carry-On Backpack.
Osprey Daylite Backpack44 litersAirScape back panel, tuckaway straps, top brandCheck here

A photo of Osprey Renn 65L Women's Backpacking Backpack.
Osprey RennBackpack 65 litersFemale fit, adjustable torso, lots of compartmentsCheck here

A photo of Osprey Rook 65L Men's Backpacking Backpack.
Osprey RookBackpack65 litersMale fit, sleeping bag section, water bladder compatibleCheck here

A photo of U.S. Traveler Rio Rugged Fabric Expandable Carry-On Luggage.
US Traveler RioSoftside case & tote20” & 14”Great value set, piggy-back strap, in-line skating wheelsCheck here

A photo of blue Rockland Fashion Softside Upright Luggage.
Rockland FashionSoftside case & tote19’ & 14”Bargain buy, 2 zippered exterior pockets, expandableCheck here

A photo of AMERICAN TOURISTER Disney Hardside Luggage.
American Tourister DisneyHardside set18” & 21” (+ other sizes)5 cute designs, 10-year warranty, interior organizationCheck here

A photo of Traveler's Choice Pagosa Indestructible Hardshell Expandable Spinner Luggage.
Traveler’s Choice PagosaHardside set22” & 26”Carry-on & checked cases, tough outer, good tech connectivityCheck here

A photo of Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage.
Rockland MelbourneHardside set20”, 24” & 28”3 cases, large range of colors, organized interiorCheck here

PRO TIP: Make sure you grab your free packing checklist! It has everything you'll need in an easy-to-use PDF checklist that you can use over & over!

The Best Luggage for Teens-Recommendations

luggage for teenage girls

⭐Best Carry-on Cases for Teens


🏆Delsey Paris Helium Aero

Best teen luggage overall

A photo of DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage.
  • Type: Hardside suitcase
  • Size: 19 inch (other sizes available)

Whether you want to find an awesome teen luggage set, a carry-on, or a checked bag, the Helium Aero from Delsey Paris will ensure they’re the envy of their friends. This is one seriously stylish range, but with a top brand like Delsey, you also get a lot of bang for your buck. 

If you want to find teenage luggage on wheels that can carry their valuable laptop, then just go for this one. When you’ve invested in a MacBook or other kind of costly computer, then why skimp on what you’re going to carry it around in? The Delsey Helium Aero is fitted with a padded laptop sleeve that’s cleverly concealed within the front compartment. 

Delsey even promises a completely weightless feel when moving this suitcase around, and you can also expand it by 2 inches to hold even more stuff. Other than the price tag, there's lots to love about this Delsey rolling suitcase for teens. Which is also covered by a 10-year warranty. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • 10-year warranty
  • Padded laptop sleeve
  • Super stylish and made to last

Not so hot:

  • High price

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American Tourister Moonlight

Best top brand on a budget

A photo of American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Expandable Luggage.
  • Type: Hardside suitcase
  • Size: 21 inch (other sizes available)

The American Tourister Moonlight is a hardside spinner case that’s available in a range of teen-pleasing shades. These include rose gold, iridescent black or white, and three prints featuring florals, palm leaves, and the cosmos. 

These make ideal teen suitcases because they are more affordable than many good brands, yet are solidly built to withstand rough handling. They’re also easy for teens and tweens to haul around the airport themselves due to having multi-directional spinner wheels. A 10-year guarantee is supplied, giving you peace of mind that this will last them at least until they’re into their twenties. 

The 21-inch case meets most airlines’ carry-on size requirements, or if it’s teen luggage sets you’re looking for then you can buy this as a two or three-piece set of spinner luggage. Larger 24 or 28-inch cases are available too if you want to invest in checked luggage. 

The long telescopic handle retracts so it can be stored inside the case, and it can be expanded by 1.5 inches. Ideal when the shopping opportunities presented by a city break are just too tempting to resist!

We’re obsessed with:

  • 10-year warranty
  • 6 colors and prints
  • 1.5-inch expansion

Not so hot:

  • Not the lightest when packed

Need luggage for a little one? Check out these cases kids can ride on!


American Tourister Star Wars

Best for Star Wars fans

A photo of American Tourister Star Wars Hardside Luggage.
  • Type: Hardside suitcase
  • Size: 21 inch

If you want to find cute suitcases for tweens and teens who are into Star Wars and are after a carry-on, then stop right here. American Tourister has ticked all the boxes with its collection featuring favorite characters like Darth Vader, R2D2, and StormTrooper. 

Even the push button handle and zip pulls have Star Wars branding. The fully lined case also features patterned fabric inside, plus a split construction and cross straps to simplify packing. 360-degree spinner wheels also make this eye-catching case easy to maneuver. 

You can also expand this case if required to provide extra storage, which is perfect following a shopping spree. Or when they’re packing in a real hurry!

We’re obsessed with:

  • Range of Star Wars designs
  • 360-degree spinner wheels
  • Fully lined interior

Not so hot:

  • Not all teens love Star Wars

Steve Madden rolling carry-on

Best for fashion-conscious teens

A photo of Steve Madden Designer 20 Inch Carry On Luggage.
  • Type: Softside suitcase
  • Size: 20 inch

When your teen hankers after a case with designer style, then this Steve Madden softside luggage is a good bet. This one has a specially tailored base to ensure improved stability, so it’s ideal for forgetful teens who might leave it lying where it might fall over. 

The four spinner wheels can rotate 360 degrees, making it easy for them to roll along the sidewalk or around the airport. It’s robust, but weighing under 8 pounds means it’s not too heavy to handle. 

A limited 5-year warranty provides back-up for buyers, so you know the case should be repaired or replaced if it fails within that time frame. It’s also expandable to offer an extra 4 liters of capacity, making 40 liters in total when enlarged. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • Designer looks
  • 5-year warranty
  • Lightweight yet tough

Not so hot:

  • More expensive than some

Lily Bloom expandable carry-on

Best for those who like to stand out

A photo of Lily Bloom Carry On Expandable Design Pattern Luggage.
  • Type: Softside suitcase
  • Size: 20 inch

If you’re looking to buy teenage girl suitcases so they’ll really stand out, then this expanding carry-on by Lily Bloom has to belong on the shortlist. It’s available in a dozen prints, but with no plain option available you might want to look away now if they’re more of a minimalist.

This softside luggage with spinner wheels is more lightweight than a hard-sided case. Like much of the best travel luggage, it comes with wheels that turn a full 360 degrees for improved maneuverability. An ergonomic handle also makes this case more comfortable to wheel around, and this can be set at three different heights.  

The case is expandable and comes with a range of interior compartments to make organization easier for your teen or tween. There are also a couple of zippered outer sections for items they may need to grab on the go or during a flight. 

These Lily Bloom cases come with branded zippers and can hold between 35 and 39 liters depending on whether expanded or not. They’re also designed to fit into the overhead luggage compartment. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • 12 patterned designs
  • Lots of compartments
  • Expands to hold an extra 4 liters

Not so hot:

  • The prints aren’t to everyone’s taste

Hey moms! We haven't forgotten about you. If you need a new carry-on, check these out!


⭐Best Underseat Cases for Teens


Samsonite underseat carry-on

Best for taking a laptop

A photo of black Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB Port.
  • Type: Softside underseat tote
  • Size: 16.5 inch

This is the first of two underseat totes to consider when you’re buying luggage bags for teens to take on board the flight. From Samsonite, this one has a padded laptop compartment for computers up to 13.3 inches. There’s also a USB port, so it’s great for teens who need constant access to tech. 

You can pick between ocean blue, purple and black, and even though it’s small there are multi-directional spinner wheels and an ergonomic telescopic handle for easy rolling. The generously sized exterior pocket is divided up to make on-the-go storage simple too. 

This bag also comes with a smart sleeve which means it can be carried on the handle of a larger case at the airport. It’s a great choice for teens traveling light and with tech, and from a top brand, it’s also built to last. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • USB port
  • Padded laptop sleeve
  • Fits beneath plane seat

Not so hot:

  • Smallest capacity

Travelpro Maxlite underseat tote

Best for traveling light

A photo of Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Lightweight Underseat Carry-On Travel Tote.
  • Type: Softside underseat tote
  • Size: 18 inch

This is the best carry-on luggage for tweens and teens who want to travel light. Maybe not the one for those teenage girls who want to pack five pairs of shoes, but ideal for an overnight stay with just the essentials. 

There are 14 colors to choose from, so you can find luggage for a teenage girl or boy. It’s ultra-lightweight at well under 2 pounds, so that should ensure they’re happy to carry this one themselves. The fabric has been designed to withstand spills and rain, with a water-repellent finish that’s also stain resistant. 

You have a choice of ways in which to carry this cute luggage for teens too. There’s a piggyback strap for attaching to a larger case with a telescopic handle, plus a long shoulder strap and twin grab handles. 

This compact case offers a 28-liter capacity, and will even be repaired if airline damage is sustained within the first year. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • 3 ways to carry
  • Weighs under 2 lbs 
  • Fits underneath the seat on front

Not so hot:

  • Limited capacity

If you are looking for travel gifts, we have some excellent recommendations for him & for her!


⭐Best Check-in Suitcases for Teens


Travelpro Maxlite check-in case

Best for resisting damage

A photo of Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Checked Luggage.
  • Type: Softside suitcase
  • Size: 25 inch (other sizes available)

When you’re seeking luggage for teens taking longer trips and who need to check in a bag, then the larger Travelpro Maxlite cases are a great option. These are available in 25 or 29-inch sizes as checked luggage, or as smaller carry-ons.

The Travelpro Maxlite range is a tried and tested favorite that comes in a great range of colors. You can also buy 2 and 3-piece sets if you want matching luggage. The average case in the Maxlite 5 range is half a pound lighter than its Maxlite 4 equivalent, and the soft sides help to reduce the weight. 

360-degree spinner wheels make it easy to roll, and each case expands by up to 2 inches when needed. Other benefits include a water and stain resistant outer, an ergonomically shaped handle, and compression straps. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • Many sizes available
  • Lightweight yet robust
  • Stain and water-resistant outer

Not so hot:

  • Not as tough as hardshell cases

Amazon Basics softside check-in

Best for a classic case

A photo of Amazon Basics suitcases.
  • Type: Softside suitcase
  • Size: 30 inch (other sizes available)

When the top rolling luggage for teens is affordable and dark in color so it doesn’t show the dirt, then the Amazon Basics range is worth looking at. With a 77-liter capacity, the 30-inch option can also carry a lot. There are 18.5 and 25-inch sizes too, or you can even buy a 3-piece set. 

What’s good about a soft-sided case is that it naturally expands a little more rather than being rigid like a hardshell case. This one’s good for a trip lasting a week or longer, and there are interior straps and compartments to help you stay on top of things. 

A telescoping handle and wheels that move in any direction make these cases easy to roll around. If your teen doesn’t mind the uninspiring, classic suitcase design, this case should be able to take them wherever they want to go for a good few years. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • Lots of space
  • Great value range
  • Ultra easy to maneuver

Not so hot:

  • Plain looks
  • Only 2 colors

SwissGear Energie

Best for style and substance

A photo of SwissGear 7272 Energie Expandable Hardside Luggage.
  • Type: Hardside suitcase
  • Size: 27 inch (other sizes available)

If you don’t mind paying for both quality and style, then the SwissGear Energie range is a sure-fire winner. You can buy these cases as carry-on luggage for teens as well as larger suitcases for checking in. 

This luggage comes complete with a TSA lock to keep the contents safe, and is made to last. Even the outer zipper has been designed to ‘self-repair’ meaning no more problems due to broken zips. 

As with some of the best luggage brands, a 10-year warranty is supplied with these SwissGrear cases, and the check-in size cases come with a USB port fitted too. The 360-degree spinner wheels are doubled to improve stability and reliability, and there are bumper feet to the sides for added protection. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • Double multi-directional spinner wheels
  • Recessed TSA locks
  • 10-year warranty

Not so hot:

  • Not the cheapest option

Samsonite Freeform

Best for choice

A photo of Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable.
  • Type: Hardside suitcase
  • Size: 28 inch (other sizes available)

The Samsonite Freeform is a solid choice for those wanting the best luggage for young adults in a checked bag size. With a hard shell, it’s made to stand the test of time and careless handling. It’s available as a 21, 24, or 28-inch case, and comes in a good choice of colors. 

Samsonite backs up this case with a 10-year warranty, so you’re not only buying the best luggage for tweens or teens here as it could last them well into adulthood. These cases also come fitted with a recessed TSA lock, so they’re all ready to roll – and multi-directional double spinner wheels make that an easy task. 

For an ultra-tough suitcase from a leading luggage brand you can trust, it’s hard to beat the Freeform range from Samsonite. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • TSA locks fitted
  • 10-year warranty
  • 3 sizes and a range of colors

Not so hot:

  • One of the most expensive

⭐Best Duffels & Backpacks for Teens


Eagle Creek No Matter What rolling duffel

Best rolling duffel

A photo of Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel Bag.
  • Type: Rolling duffel
  • Size: 104 liter

Cool suitcases for teens aren’t the only option when it comes to luggage. A rolling duffel is such a great alternative for some people, so we had to include one here. The ‘No Matter What’ from Eagle Creek is the best of the bunch, and ideal for adventurers who head off for weeks, months, or even a year at a time. 

The Bi-Tech fabric this is made from can withstand water and all the other stresses and strains of the traveling life. Duffels like this make great alternatives to backpacks, as they can be rolled along just like a suitcase. This one has ultra heavy-duty wheels with tread which are encased within a protective housing. 

This bag weighs under 4 pounds and folds down flat for storage – ideal for teens living in shared accommodations who have no space for a rigid suitcase. It also comes with an Eagle Creek lifetime warranty. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • Lifetime warranty
  • Integral storage pouch
  • Ultra-durable fabric and build

Not so hot:

  • Rugged style doesn’t suit everyone

Osprey Daylite carry-on

Best carry-on backpack

A photo of Osprey Daylite Carry-On Backpack.
  • Type: Backpack
  • Size: 44 liter

This is the best luggage for teenagers who want to carry all the things – in a carry-on backpack. It’s the biggest allowed by many major airlines (so do look at the carrier’s permitted dimensions carefully before setting off, as otherwise, it may need to be checked). 

There’s a range of colors, and all are dark so they won’t show the inevitable scuffs that backpacks are subjected to. Even though it’s relatively small, this backpack still comes with the Osprey AirScape back panel and a sternum strap.

The backpack also packs away neatly when required, as the backpack straps can be tucked away and the sides tied down with the straps provided. This is a great all-rounder for anyone seeking a carry-on for several nights away from home. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • Top backpack brand
  • AirScape back panel 
  • Backpack straps tuck away

Not so hot:

  • Not ideal for longer trips

Make sure you maximize you space with these packing hacks!


Osprey Renn

Best checked female-fit backpack

A photo of Osprey Renn 65L Women's Backpacking Backpack.
  • Type: Women’s backpack
  • Size: 65 liter

If it’s a backpack your intrepid teen is after, then we can personally recommend the awesome Osprey range. The Renn is specially shaped for the female anatomy, so it’s more supportive for teens and adults than a generic bag for both sexes. 

The Renn holds 65 liters and comes in charcoal gray, purple or teal shades. The Osprey AirSpeed back panel is fitted here, and the torso length is adjustable for the perfect fit. An integral rain cover is also included so they can keep gear dry during inclement weather. There’s also a dedicated sleeping bag compartment. 

For carrying all sorts of smaller items, the hip belt and side pockets are very useful, and the former is also super handy for keeping items she’ll need close by. The pack is also compatible with a hydration reservoir (though you’d need to buy this separately). 

If you want something more practical than teenage girl rolling luggage for more adventurous types, the Osprey Renn is the best check-in size backpack for trips lasting days, weeks, months, or even a year. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • Female-specific fit
  • Adjustable torso length
  • Many compartments and pockets

Not so hot:

  • Not for those seeking a suitcase

Osprey Rook

Best checked male-fit backpack

A photo of Osprey Rook 65L Men's Backpacking Backpack.
  • Type: Men’s backpack
  • Size: 65 liter

So the Osprey Rook is the men’s version of the Osprey Renn detailed above. This one comes in a deep green, black, or dark blue, and is also a 65-liter size. There’s little difference – but the fact that it’s male-specific can make all the difference when he’s carrying a heavy load around a national park, a city, or even the world. 

Backpacks are also a lot easier to store than even soft-sided suitcases. So if he’s off to college and needs to store it in his room during each semester, this makes life much easier. The same applies if he’s living in a small apartment or shared housing in a location like New York City where space is strictly limited. 

The Rook offers the same features and benefits as the women’s Renn – namely an adjustable torso length, a sleeping bag compartment, a rain cover, side and hip belt pockets, and compatibility with a water bladder.

Backpacks can be so much better than suitcases for young adults setting off on an adventure – whether that’s a few days camping with friends or a year-long round-the-world trip. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • Male-specific fit
  • Sleeping bag section
  • Hydration reservoir compatible

Not so hot:

  • Some prefer suitcases to backpacks

⭐Best luggage sets for Teens


US Traveler Rio carry-on set

Best for two cases in one

A photo of U.S. Traveler Rio Rugged Fabric Expandable Carry-On Luggage.
  • Type: Softside suitcase set
  • Size: 20 inch + 14 inch

This Rio set from US Traveler is great value for money, as it costs less than many carry-on cases bought individually. It comprises a regular softside 20-inch carry-on and a smaller 14-inch tote. This can be fixed onto the handle of the case, meaning your teen only has one piece of luggage to haul around. But they also have the flexibility of two separate pieces when required. 

The set comes in 9 colors and is equally suitable as luggage for teen boys and girls. This Rio Rugged is lightweight, practical, and made to last. With a fully lined interior, this teen rolling luggage also has straps to keep everything inside in place. It’s also expandable and has a big zippered mesh compartment inside.

In-line skate wheels make for effortless movement, and there is a padded shoulder strap for carrying the tote when it’s detached from the larger case. These ​​luggage sets also come in a selection of 9 colors, including pink, black, blue, and a camo print. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • Set of 2 offers great value for money
  • 14-inch tote attaches to 20-inch case
  • Self-locking handle and in-line skate wheels

Not so hot:

  • Not the most durable option

Rockland Fashion softside set

Best budget 2-piece set

A photo of blue Rockland Fashion Softside Upright Luggage.
  • Type: Softside suitcase set
  • Size: 19 inch + 14 inch

This Rockland Fashion set is even more affordable than the US Traveler Rio set. Again you get 2 pieces. If you’re searching for teenage luggage sets that don’t cost a lot, then this is ideal. It’s not the sort of travel gear that you can expect to last a lifetime, but for the price, it’s good quality and should see them through their teens. 

Helpfully Rockland lists the US carriers whose size restrictions these cases meet, namely Allegiant, American, Delta, Southwest, and United. Despite the low price, the luggage does come fully lined too. 

Again the case has a self-retracting handle and in-line skating wheels, and the larger carry-on expands by up to 2.5 inches. A couple of exterior pockets make it easy for your teen to grab whatever they need on the go.  

We’re obsessed with:

  • Very low price
  • 2 zippered exterior pockets
  • 19-inch case expands by up to 2.5 inches

Not so hot:

  • Price range

American Tourister Disney set

Best for Disney devotees

A photo of AMERICAN TOURISTER Disney Hardside Luggage.
  • Type: Hardside suitcase set
  • Size: 18 inch + 22 inch (other sizes available)

The American Tourister Disney range makes super cute suitcases for teens who are Disney fans. You’re never too old to love Mickey, Minnie and co, and the designs range from ultra colorful character prints to a far more subtle monochrome pattern.

You can buy this cool luggage for teens who adore Disney in a range of sizes.

A 10-year limited warranty is supplied by American Tourister here, so you can be confident that these cases will last. Interior mesh straps and dividers help the traveler to keep their stuff tidy, while multi-directional wheels and a retracting handle make these cases a cinch to roll around. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • 10-year warranty
  • 5 cute Disney designs
  • Internal straps and divider

Not so hot:

  • Disney theme is not for everyone

Traveler’s Choice Pagosa set

Best for the complete set

A photo of Traveler's Choice Pagosa Indestructible Hardshell Expandable Spinner Luggage.
  • Type: Hardside suitcase set
  • Size: 22 inch + 26 inch

If you want to invest in a full set of luggage for your teen that provides them with both a carry-on and a checked case, then the Pagosa from Traveler’s Choice surely has to be a contender. With a strong hard shell, these luggage sets for teens come in black, pink, baby blue, navy blue, and dark gray. 

The exterior is made to withstand scuffs and scrapes, as it’s scratch and abrasion resistant. It’s also waterproof to keep the contents dry when the user gets caught in the rain. Both cases are also expandable by up to 2 inches for when they’ve mysteriously accumulated more items than they left home with (or perhaps aren’t as tidy a packer as mom)!

The 22-inch carry-on has a few clever features that teens in particular will appreciate. Namely type C and USB ports, and even an interior pocket for a power bank. This should help keep all their tech running as smoothly as the case itself does on those 360-degree spinner wheels. 

We’re obsessed with:

  • Carry on and checked case
  • Water, stain, and abrasion resistant
  • USB and type C ports plus power bank pocket

Not so hot:

  • Both cases are on the large side

Rockland Melbourne set

Best 3-piece luggage set

A photo of Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage.
  • Type: Hardside suitcase set
  • Size: 20 inch + 24 inch + 28 inch

Sometimes the best suitcase for a teenager is one you can pick according to the type and duration of the trip. Or comes as part of a set for one, two, or three people. When you want reliable luggage for family travel at a great price, take a look at the Melbourne range by Rockland. 

This is a three-piece set that consists of 20, 24, and 28-inch cases. So a few of you could use one each, or pick out which one works best according to the type of trip they’re going on. If they’ll be going off to college, having 3 cases to carry all their clothing and other items in can also make life simpler at the start and end of the semester. 

The set also comes in a range of colors with a plain or contrasting trim. It looks sleek and modern, but its beauty is more than skin deep. Straps and a divider make packing easy, while the ergonomic telescoping handle makes each case easy to move around.

We’re obsessed with:

  • 3 carry-on and checked cases
  • Interior divider and straps
  • Large range of colors

Not so hot:

  • Maybe more than you need

Choosing The Best Luggage for Teenage Girls and Boys

Capacity

Whether you want to find suitcases for teens, a backpack, or a complete set, how much do you want the bag to carry? The first thing to think about is if you’ll be taking a carry-on or are checking in a bag. 

Next, consider how much your teen will pack. Normally, carry-ons are good for trips like a long weekend or less, while bigger cases are good for a week’s vacation or longer. 

Click here to see a guide to carry-on size limits.

Type

Hardshell and soft side cases plus backpacks, a duffel, and a range of sets are included in this guide. What type would your teen prefer – and what kind would work best for them in the real world? 

Suitcases can be rolled around, but backpacks are more practical for prolonged trips or outdoor adventures. A rolling duffel, meanwhile, offers some of the advantages of both these types. 

luggage for teenage girl

Longevity

It’s worth remembering here that you’re investing in luggage for young adults (who will soon be fully-fledged grown-ups). So when buying it may be worth spending a little more so you can get a product that will last. 

Top brands like Samsonite, Delsey, and American Tourister offer 10-year warranties on their luggage. Otherwise, look for a tough build. In general, the more you pay, the longer a case might last.

Carrying

How can the case be carried? If it rolls then that’s great, but you’ll also need a grab handle for picking it up. Backpacks are different, as they’re designed for carrying on the back. With larger ones, a gender-specific fit can help to ensure a more comfortable carry. 

Style

Too many people – not least teens – style really matters, So forget that at your peril if you’re shopping for someone for whom fashion is everything! For those seeking more personalized luggage for teens, there are all sorts of designs to choose from. 

Suitcases for teens

The Best Teenage Travel Bags-FAQs

Which suitcase is best for students?

If you’re buying for students, then the first thing to consider is what they’re using the case for. Is it long trips back to college, or weekends away? So capacity is important but also think about storage. 

College kids won’t have much space, so luggage that can slide under a bed or sit on top of a closet is ideal. A soft-sided suitcase is more flexible, while a hard-sided one is more robust. 

What size luggage do kids need?

The size of luggage a child, tween or teen needs depends on how long they’ll be away and how much they need to carry. Clearly, a smaller child won’t be able to cope carrying or wheeling with as large a case as a teen or adult.

Smaller sizes such as under 20 inches are easier for younger kids to handle. 


Which is the best luggage for your teenagers?

Whether you want a cheap, cute carry-on, a large checked case to last them for years, or a backpack, we hope this guide has helped you find the best luggage for the teens in your life! There are so many options, but whatever you’re looking for it’s always worth paying extra for something that will last a long time. 

Who knows, buy the right luggage for your teenagers now and they could still be using it when they’re well into their twenties. Or even when they reach a much older age!

Until next time…

About The Author

My mission is to inspire and empower families to prioritize travel now, creating unforgettable memories and deeper connections with their loved ones.

I provide guidance and practical solutions to help busy parents integrate travel into their lives, fostering joy, fulfillment, and stress-free adventures. Don’t wait until it’s too late; the time to travel is now.
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