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TripSavvy / Lecia Landis
Investing in a luggage set makes sense if you’re a frequent traveler using more than one suitcase (either at a time or for different kinds of trips). From an aesthetic point of view, a coordinated luggage set looks smart. It is usually more affordable than buying each piece separately, and your suitcases are guaranteed to nest inside one another for easy, space-saving storage. Luggage sets typically include two or three pieces. Some brands offer pre-selected sets, while others give you the freedom of building your own set, often with the option of customizing colors, sizes, and features.
To help you find the best luggage set, we tested some of the most popular options currently on the market in the TripSavvy lab and the real world. Each was evaluated for capacity, design, durability, maneuverability, and value, resulting in a total score that determined category winners from “Best Budget” to “Best for Business Travel.”
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Set
Effortless movement
Ultra-modern aesthetic
Roomy without excess bulk
It could use more interior pockets
The Freeform Hardside Set from the tried-and-tested suitcase brand Samsonite includes a 21-inch carry-on spinner and a large 28-inch spinner. Both feature polypropylene, a durable hard plastic that stood up well to our testing process with barely any scuffs. It’s also incredibly lightweight, with the carry-on weighing just 6.5 pounds and the checked bag tipping the scales at 9.6 pounds. We loved the minimal, streamlined look of this luggage set and the bags’ deceptively large packing capacity. We could fit everything on our packing list without employing the handy expansion feature.
Both suitcases feature a divider and enough pockets for efficient organization. We appreciated the cross-ribbon, which helps keep everything in place, but we would have liked a waterproof section for dirty laundry. The suitcases excelled in maneuverability, with four double spinner wheels and a sturdy, retractable pull handle offering the smoothest glide of any of the bags we tested. They were equally maneuverable over different surfaces and at different speeds, and we loved the easy transition between two and four wheels. Other highlights include an integrated ID tag and a TSA-approved combination lock.
Pieces Included: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch, 28-inch | Materials: Polypropylene | Expandable: Yes
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TripSavvy / Tamara Staples
Best Budget
AmazonBasics Hardside Three-Piece Set
Burly, resilient construction
Impressive value
Top-notch maneuverability
No TSA-approved lock
This three-piece luggage set from AmazonBasics costs less than a single suitcase from many other brands on this list. It includes a 21-inch carry-on, a 26-inch checked bag that's perfect for short trips, and a larger 30-inch checked bag. All three suitcases feature extra-thick ABS plastic with a scratch-resistant finish that surpassed all expectations during our stringent durability tests. We loved these suitcases' simple yet sleek design and were impressed with how they moved on carpet and concrete.
We especially liked that they could handle bumps and turns on all four wheels. The suitcases have double spinner wheels for 360-degree mobility and a well-made telescoping handle. You can also use the top handle for easy lifting on and off the luggage scale. Interiors feature 150-denier polyester, a divider, and three zippered pockets. We fit everything on our packing list before using the expansion feature but liked that we had that option if required. Choose your set in black, navy blue, blue, or orange.
Pieces Included: 3 | Sizes: 21-inch, 26-inch, 30-inch | Materials: ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes
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TripSavvy / Tamara Staples
Best Hardside
Travelpro Platinum Elite Medium Check-in Hardside Set
Solid handle with contoured grip
Easy to spin and move
Charging capabilities
One of the most expensive options
Those with room in the budget for high-end, branded hardside luggage will no doubt love the Platinum Elite set from Travelpro. It includes two pieces: a 21-inch carry-on and a 25-inch checked spinner. Both have 100 percent polycarbonate shells with a genuine leather trim and aluminum corner armor. The latter adds to the luggage’s sleek aesthetic and helps it to emerge undamaged from being beaten with a bat during testing. The carry-on has an external power bank pocket and fast-charge USB-A and USB-C ports.
Both suitcases open clamshell-style, with two zippered divider panels and multiple accessory pockets. We liked that they offer a water-resistant pocket for damp laundry or toiletries and that the checked bag features adjustable compression straps. We could fit all of our belongings but did have to employ the expansion feature, which made the carry-on quite a squeeze to fit into our simulated overhead compartment. Nevertheless, we loved the set’s maneuverability with smooth-turning wheels and a comfortable textured handle.
Pieces Included: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch, 25-inch | Materials: Polycarbonate | Expandable: Yes
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TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik
Best Softside
Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Softside Spinner Set
Plenty of storage solutions
Smart features
Scratch- and scuff-resistant fabric
Less spacious than some competitors
For softside fans, the fabric version of Travelpro’s Platinum Elite luggage set is an obvious choice. Featuring a 21-inch spinner, a 25-inch spinner, and a 29-inch spinner, it includes a suitcase for every occasion—all of them made from high-density nylon with a DuraGuard coating, leather accents, and chrome zippers. The set sustained zero marks or damage even after extensive drops and bat beatings. The carry-on boasts an integrated USB port and external battery pocket, while all three offer a drop-in, fold-out suiter to keep garments wrinkle-free.
We were impressed with the organizational features, with multiple interior and exterior zippered pockets, a divider, and a compression system. One pocket is waterproof, making it handy for toiletries or other damp items. This set also utilizes the brand’s PrecisionGlide system, with self-aligning wheels and an airline-grade aluminum handle with four height settings and a contoured grip. We found the bags maneuvered well, although it took a little more effort on two wheels. Sets are available in a range of colors including black, blue, and Bordeaux.
Pieces Included: 3 | Sizes: 21-inch, 25-inch, 29-inch | Materials: High-density nylon | Expandable: Yes
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TripSavvy / Conor Ralph
Best for Business Travel
BEIS Luggage Bundle
Plenty of opportunity to customize
Cushioned tech compartment
Overweight alert
Can feel a little unwieldy
The Béis Luggage Bundle is completely customizable, with the ability to choose two or three pieces from a range of options, including hard- and softsided carry-ons, 26-inch spinners, and 29-inch spinners. You can match materials or choose some of each, while colors (ranging from professional black or navy to eye-catching maple) are also selected individually. Common features include water-resistant zippers (ideal for business trips in inclement weather), an integrated TSA-approved lock, and a weight indicator built into the side carry handle.
We love the amazing storage capacity offered by each suitcase, with compartments on both sides and useful drawstring bags included for your shoes or dirty laundry. We especially like this luggage for business travelers because of the padded divider for storing your laptop securely. Other highlights include the 360-degree Hinomoto wheels and the cushioned pillow handle—both of which make travel a breeze no matter how often you’re on the road. We found the suitcases easy to turn around tight corners and over bumps, even on carpet.
Pieces Included: 2 or 3 | Sizes: 21-inch, 26-inch, 29-inch | Materials: Polycarbonate or polyester | Expandable: Optional
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TripSavvy
Best Organization
Away Suitcase Sets
Thoughtful and functional extras
Option for adjustable capacity
Choice of materials
Not all colors available in every size
If you're looking for a top luggage brand with great customer service, Away gives you options to build your luggage set from scratch. Start by choosing your carry-on (the brand offers a standard and a plus-size option), then add The Medium and/or The Large, with the biggest savings reserved for three-piece sets. Opt for polycarbonate or aluminum—we tested the polycarbonate, which stood up well with no dents and only a few superficial scratches. We liked that the suitcase came with a special sponge for removing these. Then, choose the Classic or the Flex version (the latter is expandable).
You can choose the same color for each piece or go for different ones with shades such as black, green, asphalt, and blush. We loved the look of this luggage and how organized it is. Each piece opens into two halves separated by a zippered divider. An interior compression system keeps everything in place, while a hidden laundry bag provides space for your dirty items. Finally, the 360-degree spinning wheels guarantee smooth-gliding, quick-turning mobility. Top, side, and underside grab handles make lifting easy.
Pieces Included: 2 or 3 | Sizes: 20-inch, 21-inch, 24-inch, 27-inch | Materials: Polycarbonate or aluminum | Expandable: Optional
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TripSavvy / Tamara Staples
Best Checked
Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage Set
Good interior layout
Handles well over most terrains
Cleverly patterned shell disguises any cosmetic damage
Limited colors on the official site
If you frequently take extended trips and need a dependable choice of checked bags, the three-piece Samsonite Winfield 2 Fashion Set includes both a 24-inch and a 28-inch suitcase and a handy carry-on. All three feature lightweight polycarbonate, which flexes under stress and then pops back into place—a phenomenon we saw for ourselves during our testing process. We liked that the brushstroke coloration effectively hid any scuffs or scratches, keeping your suitcases looking smart for longer.
Each one is split into two halves by the zippered divider, which includes integrated pockets for maximum organization. We appreciated the bags’ ample space, the compression feature for keeping everything in place, and how they can expand to accommodate the results of a vacation shopping spree. With four multidirectional spinner wheels and a retractable handle, the set maneuvered smoothly over various surfaces, including concrete, carpet, and gravel. Extra features include a TSA lock and sturdy hoist handles.
Pieces Included: 3 | Sizes: 20-inch, 24-inch, 28-inch | Materials: Polycarbonate | Expandable: Yes
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TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik
Best Large Capacity
Delsey Paris Helium Aero Hardside Luggage Set
Beautiful, distinctive colorways
Spacious
Carry-on includes a cushioned tech sleeve
Not many interior pockets
If capacity is your top priority, you’ll love the three-piece Helium Aero luggage set from Delsey Paris. Made from polycarbonate, the suitcases survived our durability tests with a few barely noticeable surface scratches. We love the metallic jewel tones on offer and feel that they are both chic and easy to pick out at the luggage carousel. Including a carry-on, a small checked bag, and a large checked bag, the set opens clamshell-style to reveal two deep halves with plenty of space to spare.
We could fit everything on our list with room left over, even before using the expansion feature. We did wish there were a few more pockets (interior organization consists of just two pockets, a zippered divider, and compression straps), but a set of packing cubes would provide an easy solution for those who prefer more structure. The carry-on has a separate front pocket with a padded laptop compartment. We found the suitcases easy to push or pull on hard floors and carpet and easy enough to pull on gravel. All suitcases have a TSA lock.
Pieces Included: 3 | Sizes: 21-inch, 27.5-inch, 31.75-inch | Materials: Polycarbonate | Expandable: Yes
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TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik
Final Verdict
The Samsonite Freeform series is constantly topping our lists with its stellar performance and chic aesthetic. Maxing out every test, these cases particularly shine in maneuverability and generous capacity. If you are looking for a luggage set that gets the job done while leaving you enough money for the trip, we recommend the Amazon Basics Hardside Set.
How We Tested
First, we tested suitcase capacity by packing each one with a prescribed list of items meant to replicate a seven-day fall sightseeing trip (for checked bags) or a four-day trip (for carry-on bags). During the packing process, we evaluated the luggage’s storage and expansion features, noting how smooth the zippers were and how durable the overall construction was.
Next, we tested maneuverability by pushing and pulling the suitcase over concrete, carpet, and gravel. We took each one through an obstacle course meant to simulate a busy airport or station, noting how easily the suitcase turned, how well it handled bumps, and how smooth the transition was from two wheels to four (and vice versa).
Finally, we tested for durability by placing it on a counter and pushing it off multiple times. We also repeatedly beat it with a baseball bat, targeting potential weak areas, including the corners and wheel housings. We scored all suitcases from 1 to 5 for capacity, organization, maneuverability, durability, and value. Total scores informed our choice of category winners.
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TripSavvy / Conor Ralph
Other Luggage Sets We Tested
We tested individual pieces of luggage to make our evaluations. The following insights were gleaned from specific bags within the set as mentioned.
COOLIFE 2-Piece Set: Although we only tested the carry-on in this set, we couldn't fault its long-lasting build or value. Though generally a solid option, we noticed the maneuverability was lacking (performing some tasks better on two wheels and some on four), and the internal compartment of the carry-on made packing bulky items a bit more complicated.
July Carry On & Checked Set: Stylish and well-designed with thoughtful touches such as internal compression pads and cloth bags for protection during delivery, this eye-catching set has a lot going for it. Unfortunately, our bat test left numerous scuffs on the light pink checked bag we tested, which also had difficulty rolling on uneven terrain.
Paravel Aviator Set Plus: The design, capacity, and maneuverability of the Aviator were all top-notch, and our tester loved that everything on our list fit into the Carry-on Plus with room to spare. It did show some scuff marks and blemishes, and though we think this is a great value, it isn't the cheapest set on the market.
What to Look For in Luggage Sets
Size
While larger sets include an option for every travel scenario, smaller sets require you to decide between the suitcase sizes that best meet your needs. Usually, two-piece sets include a carry-on and either a medium or a large checked bag. The right choice depends on how long you typically travel, how many people you pack for, and where you usually go (cold destinations require bulkier layers than warm ones). Carry-on sizes vary from brand to brand. If you prefer a particular airline, check that the carry-on size of your chosen set is compatible with their size restrictions. As a general rule, expect international flights to have smaller weight allowances for carry-ons compared to domestic trips.
Material
Suitcase materials come in two main categories: hardside and softside. Hardside luggage usually features polycarbonate, ABS plastic, or aluminum. The most popular materials for softside luggage are high-density nylon and polyester. Both options have their pros and cons. Many people like the modern look of hardside luggage, the fact that it provides rigid protection for their belongings (from both rough handling and thieves) and that it’s easy to clean. Others prefer softside luggage because it’s less prone to scratches, scuffs, and dents, while flexible sides are more forgiving for over-packers and oddly shaped items.
Price
Luggage sets on this list vary considerably, from just over $200 to just under $1,300—proving that there’s an option for almost any budget. While brand name and reputation determine much of the price, there are ways to minimize cost. Namely, sets with fewer pieces are obviously cheaper, while softside luggage is often more economical than hardside. Remember that it’s often worth investing a little bit more in a quality set that will stand the test of time, saving you from having to fork out more for a replacement in a few years.
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TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the benefits of luggage sets?
Purchasing a luggage set means always having the best-sized bag for your travels, whether you need a carry-on for an overnight business trip or a large checked bag for your annual family vacation. Usually, investing in a set is more economical than buying each piece separately. Coordinated luggage adds an element of seamless style to your travel look, especially since many brands design their pieces to fit together with connecting straps or sleeves. Finally, suitcase sets nest inside each other neatly, saving storage space at home and on the road.
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How many pieces should a luggage set have?
Most often, luggage sets have two or three pieces—typically, a carry-on and a medium or large checked bag. It’s also possible to find four- or five-piece sets, which add a matching duffel or under-seater. You should choose the set that best reflects your travel habits. For example, if you mostly travel solo on trips of a similar length, a two-piece set is likely sufficient. But, if your trips are less predictable, having a greater variety of suitcase sizes to choose from can be handy, while couples and families can share larger sets between them.
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Can you create your own set?
Some brands let you create your luggage set from scratch. You can choose how many pieces you want, which suitcase styles meet your needs best, the features you want, and your preferred colors. Often, pieces don’t have to match in color or style. This is a game-changer for those wanting different pieces for different family members at a single, discounted price or for those who plan on using each piece for a different occasion (a sober black carry-on for business, perhaps, and a pink checked bag for trips with friends).
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How should you care for your luggage set?
Care guidelines differ from brand to brand and depend on the suitcase material. We always recommend checking individual manufacturer instructions before attempting to clean your luggage. However, as a general rule, hardside luggage made from polycarbonate or ABS is easily wiped clean with a damp cloth. You can remove dirt from softside luggage with a soft-bristled brush, while other stains may be successfully spot-cleaned. Either way, luggage should be fully dry when put away and stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
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How do you set the code for a TSA lock?
All TSA-approved locks serve the same purpose—they allow your suitcase to be opened by a TSA agent with a master key rather than that agent having to damage your suitcase to see what’s inside. However, not all of them operate in exactly the same way, so the process for setting the code differs. Most come with easy instructions; if yours doesn’t, a quick search of the brand website should give you the answer you’re looking for. Otherwise, this website gives a good overview of different lock types. All TSA locks come with a factory code of 000.
Why Trust TripSavvy
Jessica Macdonald is the Africa travel expert for TripSavvy and a regular contributor to round-ups relating to family and adventure travel. She is a frequent traveler with a firsthand understanding of the importance of a good luggage set, having visited more than 50 countries for everything from backpacking adventures to family vacations and research trips.