LEIGH'S LIST: 'Planning a trip this year? Here’s the best luggage that ticks all the boxes.'

Welcome to Leigh's List. A weekly column, a bit like an agony aunt, but for your shopping woes. A self-confessed shopping addict, Leigh Campbell enjoys nothing more than hunting down the *thing* you've been searching for but haven't been able to find.

Amelia asked:

"Hi, Leigh! Back to work blues have got me planning some weekends away and maybe a bigger trip for this coming year. 

I know you travel a lot, and so I was hoping you could share your favourite suitcases and luggage options? 

It has been many, many years since I’ve invested in new suitcases and my old ones are heavy and tattered. Thank you!"

Watch: 5 Minutes with Kelly | Travelling with products & those darn 11's. Post continues below.

Leigh answered:

"Truth is, I have far more luggage than is normal, or that my family needs. 

It’s because it can be tricky finding the right cases that truly deliver what you need. It’s not until you’re off on your journey that you work out exactly what’s helpful when it comes to carting your stuff from place to place. 

Below are some excellent options for overnight stays, interstate travel and big adventures overseas."

TRY THESE:

Kmart Basic Soft Case, $29.

Image: Kmart.

On a tight budget, or saving as much cash for the holiday as possible? Kmart has a super cheap suitcase that has impressive reviews and all the essentials you need. Perfect for teens off on their first trip, or anyone who just wants functionality.

Nere Stori 75cm Suitcase, $169.

Image: STRAND.

Nere is a relatively new luggage brand - it’s an offshoot of Flylite, which won the Canstar Blue Most Satisfied Customer Award in 2019 and 2021. They've taken all the functional bits and then added extra style. I have one of the bright hard cases (there’s 10 colours!), and I love it because I definitely know which bag is mine on the conveyor belt. 

Wanderlite Luggage 4 Wheel Hard Shell Travel Suitcase, $80.95.

Image: Wanderlite, Amazon.

This case has excellent reviews as a trusty affordable option. 360 degree rotating wheels (which we come to expect now, but not all suitcases have them!), A cross strap to secure your clothes and three height levels for the handle, it’s a great classic case. 

July Carry On Pro SnapSleeve Case, $425.

Image: July.

This guy isn't cheap, but is impressive. Available in 6 colours, it features a hard shell, with a soft sleeve that’s detachable, designed for your laptop (AKA an easier airport security experience). It also has an ejectable battery for charging devices, and the option to personalise it with your name or initials. 

Antler Brixham Medium case in Canopy Green, $230.30.

Image: Antler.

If maximum packing (or shopping!) is your goal, then you need a case that doesn't weigh much to begin with. The Brixham range is Antler’s lightest range yet. It’s a soft case, too - which I opt for if I know I’m travelling to a place with limited room as I can access all of my belongings without having to lay the case open (which is often the case with hard-shelled luggage). 

Target Mouv Hard Large Suitcase, $110.

Image: Target.

Target has an in-house luggage label called Mouv. The big case with a hard shell for just over a hundred bucks, which comes with a four year warranty and is rated 4.9 out of 5. There’s also a similar version in a soft case, if that’s more your style. 

Away Medium Everywhere Bag, $225.

Image: Away.

Away is another brand I have and love. The Everywhere Bag is a fantastic overnight or weekender - it comes in four colours, zips fully open, and has a bunch of compartments inside for easy packing. It also has a trolley sleeve, if you want to take it on a bigger trip and attach it to your suitcase. 

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Featured Image: July/Target/STRAND/Away/Supplied.