The best hold luggage in the UK 2023

In terms of ecology, comfort, but above all safety, nothing beats air travel! In fact, a study conducted by an airline company shows that flying is 44 times safer than driving. Have you chosen to use this means of transportation like millions of other vacationers? Excellent initiative, but for that a good hold suitcase is required! Our guide will help you decide on the volume, dimensions, material and ergonomics of your suitcase.

Delsey Paris SEGUR 2.0 1
8/10

Best value for money

Delsey Paris SEGUR 2.0

The best checked luggage in 2021

Because the trend is sober and elegant, this hold suitcase signed Delsey Paris is the model of the moment. Find out why!

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Measuring 78 x 30 x 50 cm, the Delsey Paris SEGUR 2.0 suitcase features a hard shell made of polycarbonate. It's a great combination of strength and sturdiness that guarantees its durability, no matter how often you use it. Its 105L capacity is ideal for long trips, as it offers optimal storage space. Speaking of storage, you get a zippered mesh compartment with a zippered pocket, topped with adjustable straps. In this functional interior space is a removable and washable lining that covers the shell. As for the exterior, you will find a securitech zip associated with a TSA lock. While handles come to rest the port of the suitcase, 4 wheels and a handle of traction with multiposition telescopic system complete the ease of movement.

AmazonBasics YMX04-19 2
8/10

Best value for money

AmazonBasics YMX04-19

The best entry-level checked luggage

The light weight and expandable design of this soft hold case are valuable assets for traveling light without missing anything.

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This soft hold luggage from AmazonBasic hides an array of assets that could quickly impress air travel enthusiasts. Given the constraints of fabric luggage to withstand shocks in the hold, this model completely aligns with the needs of users thanks to its strength. Even if the fabric isn't strong enough, it features impact-resistant wheel covers, anti-slip protection and molded corner guards, among other features. All in all, the classic, sleek design of this luggage has been reinforced enough to handle regular use. Thanks to its 66 cm height, this suitcase can carry the necessities for 10 to 15 days. But what we like most of all are its stabilizers that prevent it from falling under the weight of its contents, even when it is standing on its 2 wheels.

Suitcase - Eastpak Tranverz 3
8/10

A great choice

Suitcase - Eastpak Tranverz

The most comfortable checked luggage

Eastpak offers this ultra-comfortable hold case to revolutionize its collections and bring maximum ergonomics to globetrotters.

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It is the dynamic, modern and cool design of this checked luggage that catches the eye at first. But when you go further, you'll discover an extremely comfortable piece of luggage. The number one ally for light travel, it has two compartments, a large zippered front pocket and finally, compression straps. Although it is not waterproof, the polyester fabric can be easily washed if it gets dirty after a trip in the airplane's cargo hold. With this suitcase of 79 x 40 x 33 cm for a volume of 121 L, you have a huge storage space. Finally, the transport of this suitcase is as practical as these features, as you have a telescopic handle, 360° swivel wheels and two other handles, one side and one top.

Samsonite Lite-Shock Spinner 4
8/10

Very good choice

Samsonite Lite-Shock Spinner

The strongest checked luggage

Adopt a stylish, sturdy and lightweight look with Samsonite suitcases, the best performing for checked luggage is this model from the Lite-Shock collection.

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The Lite-Shock suitcase from Samsonite is atop-of-the-line model that combines elegance, lightness and robustness. First of all, it is made of Curv material, which gives it an ideal weight of only 2.5 kg. This hard-sided checked luggage measures 75 x 40 x 51 cm and has a capacity of just over 98.5 L. We must admit that the suitcase is the perfect model to travel for more than 15 days, or even longer, without missing anything. The functional interior is composed of a large compartment with a zipped divider at the top. We also appreciate the 4 multidirectional wheels combined with a retractable handle as well as the two carrying handles that really simplify the movement of this suitcase.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best hold bag

Any specific needs?

The best checked luggage in 2021

The best entry-level checked luggage

The most comfortable checked luggage

The strongest checked luggage

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best hold luggage

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP EXCELLENT VERY GOOD
Delsey Paris SEGUR 2.0 5
8/10
AmazonBasics YMX04-19 6
8/10
Suitcase - Eastpak Tranverz 7
8/10
Samsonite Lite-Shock Spinner 8
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Delsey Paris SEGUR 2.0
AmazonBasics YMX04-19
Suitcase - Eastpak Tranverz
Samsonite Lite-Shock Spinner
Because the trend is sober and elegant, this hold suitcase signed Delsey Paris is the model of the moment. Find out why!
The light weight and expandable design of this soft hold case are valuable assets for traveling light without missing anything.
Eastpak offers this ultra-comfortable hold case to revolutionize its collections and bring maximum ergonomics to globetrotters.
Adopt a stylish, sturdy and lightweight look with Samsonite suitcases, the best performing for checked luggage is this model from the Lite-Shock collection.
Excellent value for money
Inexpensive
Very nice design
Incredibly light and strong
Hull absorbs shocks well
Flexible design optimizes use and storage in tight corners
Ultra-light polyester fabric
Innovative and modern design
Easy to clean inside and out
Extra sturdy wheels
Excellent volume for long stays
Very well secured
Very elegant design
Perfect stability for a 2-wheeled suitcase
Well-distributed and organized storage spaces
Very easy and comfortable to carry thanks to the single-tube handle
Highly ergonomic and functional shell and interior space
Large storage space
Convenient to hold and move
Very high price

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Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - hold bag

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How to choose your hold bag

The sheer volume of suitcases that pass through airport baggage handlers means that they do not have the time or strength to handle each one with care. It is therefore not uncommon for hold luggage to be mishandled all the way to its destination, which is why choosing the best quality is a must. Don't know what criteria to use to select the right hold luggage? Follow our advice!
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#1 - the needs

Of course, all the other criteria depend on this one and if there is one point you should consider first, it is the type of use of your future hold suitcase and your needs. To be sure you are buying the right luggage, take these parameters into account:

  • The length of your stay in order to choose between the different sizes of checked luggage (M, L, XL or XXL) and the corresponding volumes
  • The type of stay, because the dimensions can also change depending on the destination, especially if you are accompanied by a young child
  • Your profile and your tastes, which will allow you to select the design, the material and, once again, the size

In any case, the most important thing is to bet on a durable and resistant model that can accompany you for many years to come.

#2 - size and volume

This type of luggage exists in several formats, namely:

  • Medium-sized checked lug gage that measures between 60 and 70 cm high (M)
  • Large checked luggage that measures between 70 and 85 cm high (L)
  • Extra large checked luggage that measures between 85 and 120 cm high (XL or XXL)

Of course, their capacity varies according to these dimensions althougha hold suitcase normally offers a volume of 50 to 130 L for the largest. The good news for all buyers is that everyone is sure to find what they need. That said, be careful not to get confused about the question of size and capacity! Too small a suitcase may not hold all of your belongings, while too large a suitcase may be heavier than expected and may incur fees that you will have to answer to your airline. Since regulations about maximum size and weight allowances are not fixed from one airline to another, we advise you to be well informed before making your purchase.

#3 - the material

In the hold luggage department, you will find all kinds of materials depending on the type of suitcase.

  • Soft suitcases are made of fabric (polyester, nylon, canvas, Teflon, polyurethane, ballistic nylon, Cordura fabric...). They have the merit of being accessible, ergonomic, flexible and above all, light . However, their level of sturdiness and waterproofing is not as appreciable. Unless you choose a top-of-the-line product, you may find yourself with a torn, stained or soaked suitcase upon arrival.
  • Hard-sided checked lug gage is made from materials that are highly regarded for their strength and durability, including ABS, aluminum, polycarbonate and polypropylene. On the other hand, the renowned brand Samsonite has chosen to innovate polypropylene to come out with Curv and Flowlite technologies: handy, very strong and extremely light. However, you should know that you will have to spend a lot more money to adopt this style of checked luggage.

In order to make the right choice, you must consider the frequency of use, as soft suitcases are intended for occasional use and hard suitcases for frequent use. You can also balance your choice by choosing a hybrid hold suitcase that combines sturdiness, lightness and flexibility.

#4 - comfort

The

rule is simple: a comfortable hold suitcase favors its ease of transport as well as the storage and security of your personal belongings. So it's a parameter that's evaluated in terms of weight, closure, storage space and exterior features.

  • An empty hold suitcase should not weigh more than 6 kg so that you can take advantage of the storage space. Heavier suitcases will require a minimum load or risk paying excess baggage at check-in.
  • The closure of a suitcase depends on the model and can range from a simple zip to a clip system. As for the locking, it is done either with a keyed padlock, or with a padlock or a code lock. More reliable and modern, these last two options are the most recommended.
  • In order not to be encumbered by the weight and size of a hold suitcase, prefer models equipped with wheels (multidirectional or not, 2 or 4 wheels) associated with a traction handle. The presence of a side or top handle is also highly recommended.
  • The interior design is as important as the exterior, especially in terms of storage space. Use compartment dividers and straps to keep things organized. Also put a premium on pockets, whether they are zippered, elastic or flat.
  • As for functionality, many manufacturers offer retractable handles or dedicated storage for electronics and fragile items.

Why is a hold suitcase essential?

All airlines impose a weight and size limit on checked luggage, so many passengers use cabin luggage only. In fact, some airlines even offer no baggage allowance at all, such as low-cost airlines. That said, the hold bag is still essential and here's why!

For long stays

Unless you're ready to buy everything once you're there, the hold bag is essential for long stays. In fact, unlike carry-on suitcases, which are more than enough for a 2 to 4 day trip, the hold suitcase allows you to take a maximum of belongings for 15 days or more. This way, you can be sure to have everything you need with you and avoid spending money on your material needs during your long stay.

For a better organization

It goes without saying that carry-on suitcases offer good storage space. However, with a hold suitcase, you benefit from much more space and excellent ergonomics. The central compartment of a large suitcase can be divided into several storage compartments and the number of pockets is far more interesting.

To avoid clutter in the cabin

Even if it seems reassuring to have your belongings within reach and with you in the cabin, the space required should not be minimized. You are obliged to move around the airport with your luggage so as not to lose sight of it. Also, you have to carry it yourself in and out of the plane. Not as convenient as it sounds, is it? That's why a hold suitcase is a must!

To contain a whole range of useless objects in the cabin

In addition to the concern for space, you will quickly realize that in the cabin, a multitude of personal effects are not necessarily essential. If you are traveling with a child, for example, a hold suitcase will be perfect for storing the many toys he or she will only need once at the destination. Similarly, all your shoes, cosmetics and suits will fit in a hold suitcase.

To protect fragile personal effects, even in the hold

It's no secret that checked luggage is sometimes subject to rough handling, and that once in the hold, it piles up on top of each other before being thrown onto the conveyor belt on arrival. For these obvious reasons, many passengers prefer to keep fragile items in their hand luggage. However, this should no longer be a constraint with the sturdiness and impressive resistance of hard-shell checked luggage. There's no need to worry about the condition of your luggage: with a quality checked luggage, fragile items stay intact.

To bring back travel memories

Whether you're traveling for business, personal or vacation, no one ever misses a travel souvenir, even after a short stay! Of course, these items represent additional luggage and cannot all be taken on board in the cabin. With a hold bag available, it is much easier to store them and to retrieve them only on the spot.

Tips

The best techniques to save a maximum of space

To maximize the space available, rather than folding your clothes and linens that you plan to take in your checked bag, you can roll them, iron them and not fold them, or put them in vacuum bags from which you will suck the air.

The best techniques for protecting valuables

You

don't want to

arrive with damaged valuables, simply because your checked luggage was not able to absorb the shocks. To maximize the protection of your fragile equipment, pack electronic gadgets and laptops in the carry-on bag. Valuable and delicate items sent to the hold should be wrapped in cloth or paper, jewelry should be stored in small boxes and the straps should always be fastened.

Make sure to check your airline's baggage regulations

That's

it, the seats are booked, the tickets are purchased, all that's left to do is buy the suitcase. But before you spend anything, be sure to check the baggage standards your airline indicates to avoid penalties for excess baggage.

Follow the regulations on the contents of your suitcase

When

packing your suitcase, sort it out so you don't get punished by airport screeners. Apply to the letter the recommendations on the content of your suitcase, especially on the quantity of liquid substance authorized as well as their packaging (to be poured into bottles of 100ml or less, for a maximum quantity of 1 L and all packed in a transparent plastic bag).

Beware of products that may leak

Under the

effect of the pressure and heat in the hold, there is a great risk that the liquid substances will spill into the suitcase. To avoid getting it almost everywhere, close the cap tightly, use tape to band the lid, and of course, plastic bags are a must.

FAQ

What is the best checked luggage?

The best checked luggage depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide to find out more.

What is not allowed in the hold?

Like cabin baggage, hold luggage is subject to regulations that prohibit the carrying of certain items. These include flammable or explosive substances and materials (ammunition, 70° alcohol, gas lighters, chemicals, etc.) and toxic substances (tear gas canisters, corrosive products, paint, etc.). Although metal objects (nail clippers or nail files, scissors, razors, etc.) are allowed in the hold, any type of equipment in this category that could endanger the lives of others is prohibited (knife, revolver, blade, pocket knife, etc.).

How many suitcases per person can we take?

This information changes from one airline to another. Normally, each passenger can have a maximum of 4 pieces of luggage, while necessarily respecting the maximum weight allowed, which can range from 20 to 32 kg.

What are the maximum dimensions for a hold suitcase?

Even if we are more or less spoiled for choice when it comes to checked luggage, it is still mandatory to limit yourself to a maximum size of 158 cm (height, length and width), including handles and wheels.

How to avoid excess baggage in the hold?

Despite a good sorting and a good preparation of the suitcase, nobody is safe from bad surprises once at the airport. For this reason, remember to weigh your luggage before leaving home (a luggage scale is essential for seasoned travelers, a simple scale will do for those who are not).

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , parisaeroport.fr
  2. , carnets-de-voyage.net
  3. , indexvoyage.ca
  4. , bonasavoir.ch
  5. , quechoisir.org
  6. , bestreviews.com
  7. , nytimes.com
  8. , goodhousekeeping.com
  9. , tripsavvy.com
  10. , upgradedpoints.com
  11. , amazon.co.uk
  12. , delsey.com
  13. , ma-valise-voyage.fr
  14. , labonnevalise.com
  15. , amazon.co.uk
  16. , hanahcountryclub.com
  17. , tekmi.fr
  18. , parisaeroport.fr
  19. , destinationlemonde.com
  20. , valise-avion.fr
  21. , easyjet.com
  22. , frenchbee.com
  23. , carrefour.fr
  24. , carnetsderoutes.fr
  25. , brusselsairport.be
  26. , cdiscount.com
  27. , valiselegere.fr
  28. , i-travelled.com
  29. , quechoisir.org
  30. , tekmi.fr
  31. , fnac.com
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Delsey Paris SEGUR 2.0 9
Delsey Paris SEGUR 2.0
AmazonBasics YMX04-19 10
AmazonBasics YMX04-19
Suitcase - Eastpak Tranverz 11
Suitcase - Eastpak Tranverz
Samsonite Lite-Shock Spinner 12
Samsonite Lite-Shock Spinner

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