If you have your summer holiday booked, one thing is non-negotiable: reliable, sturdy luggage. No one wants to see their bikini on the baggage carousel in the middle of the airport, and if you are a chronic overpacker, you will know the right bag can make or break the trip. Whether you are heading on a long-haul, two-week trip somewhere sunny, or catching up on culture on a long weekend break, you will want something that fits all your things, keeps valuables safe, and is not a faff to wheel or carry through hotels, public transport, and in and out of cabs.
That is why we have handpicked our favourite luggage options to shop for 2026, complete with soft and hard shells, four wheels, practical handles, compartments, and lightweight designs that will make shoving it in an overhead locker a breeze. We have got you covered on everything from cabin bags to heavy, checked-in larger models, spanning budget buys and luxurious splurges that will stand the test of time.
The Best Suitcases for Summer 2026
The North Face Base Camp Voyager 21 Roller Suitcase
Built from the same durable recycled polyester as The North Face duffel bag, this suitcase has a water-repellent finish, so it can handle whatever the baggage handlers throw at it. The interior is organised with a 15-inch laptop sleeve, compression straps, and a zip divider, while an external zip pocket keeps your passport within easy reach. It is well worth the investment if you are a frequent traveller. Priced at £215.
Antler Large Suitcase Green Icon Stripe
If you are an overpacker with no plans to change, this is the big holiday suitcase for you. It has a hardwearing shell made from recycled polycarbonate, with 360-degree wheels that glide over airport floors, while the double-zip pockets and compression straps keep everything inside safe, secure, and less likely to leak. Priced at £255.
Marks & Spencer Vienna 4 Wheel Hard Shell Cabin Suitcase
You do not need to spend a fortune to travel in style. This M&S cabin case weighs just 2.6kg, rolls around on four smooth wheels, and features a retractable handle, internal straps, and a zip-around divider. It is perfectly sized for a long weekend, and the lockable zips will give you extra peace of mind. For £30, it is quite frankly a bargain.
Rains Texel Check-in Bag
Of course, a brand as cool as Rains makes super-chic suitcases, too. This style features the brand iconic waterproof fabric and a semi-rigid shell, which provides serious protection against all weather and airport baggage handlers. Inside, you will find two spacious compartments, complete with mesh closures, internal elastic straps, and adjustable compression straps to keep everything neat. It is not cheap, but it will last you years. Priced at £269.
Rock Luna Medium 67cm 8-Wheel Suitcase
Rimowa, eat your heart out. This silver suitcase, with eight wheels, a combination lock, mesh dividers, and packing straps make it as functional as it is fabulous, without a price tag in the hundreds. For £65 it is a steal, and comes in blue, charcoal, and pink, too.
Tripp Green Holiday 8 Large Suitcase
Another budget-friendly pick is this one from Next. It is huge, so if you are travelling long-haul for a long time, or trying to fit your kids stuff in there too, it has got plenty of space, and can hold up to 102 litres. The design is distinct enough to spot on the baggage carousel, and the integrated TSA lock and four smooth-rolling wheels will make transporting it through the airport fuss-free. Priced at £75.
Joules Epwell Pink Cabin Four Wheel Soft Suitcase
This cabin case is pretty but practical. It has a durable aluminium trolley, gold hardware, organised pockets, a gingham interior, and a robust top-handle for lifting it over your head with ease, and trigger clips for extra safety. It is an added bonus that it looks this good. Priced at £159.
Samsonite Roadseeker Duffle with wheels 79cm
Part suitcase, part holdall, Samsonite Roadseeker Duffle bag is the perfect pick if you want something distinctive, reliable, and spacious. It is eco-friendly too, made from recycled PET plastic, with a front pocket, top and side handles, silent wheels, and exterior storage. Priced at £189.
