Our editors, Charley Ward and Lauren Burvill, have personally tested a wide range of bags from leading luggage brands, carefully selecting their favourites based on function, innovation and design. Every suitcase is trialled in the office before being handed over to other team members to test on real journeys.
Each case was thoroughly tested in-office by our editors, Charley Ward and Lauren Burvill, before being taken on trips by members of the wider team for real-world use. During testing, we assess overall build quality, wheel performance, TSA-approved locks, design features such as external pockets and laptop compartments, and overall value for money. Weight, size, usability and visual appeal are also carefully considered.
We don’t just focus on suitcases when assessing the best luggage brands of 2026 – we’ve tested everything from kids’ scooter cases to huge trunks, to underseat cabin bags and weekender duffels. We review multiple products from each brand to understand overall quality and consistency, considering value for money, storage solutions, aesthetics and durability – especially when it comes to surviving baggage reclaim.