We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

The 8 Best Travel Trunks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Add a touch of vintage style to your long-haul journeys with these chic and functional travel trunks.

Best Travel Trunks
Photo:

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Before modern suitcases were invented, travel trunks (also called steamer trunks) were the luggage of choice for long-haul trips. Their sturdy construction and excellent storage capacity made them the go-to for transporting clothing, footwear, and even household items. These features have kept them relevant today, and brands have added plenty of upgrades like lightweight construction, wider size ranges, spinner wheels, multiple handles, and built-in organization. Travelers now also have many more options when it comes to the design and size of these pieces. 

We carefully tested more than 400 carry-on and checked bags in our lab and on an airplane set we built for testing, looking for the best in style, comfort, value, design, and functionality. For this article, we handpicked the best trunks out of our testing insights to feature ones that stood out for their high-quality construction, excellent maneuverability, strong durability and expectation-exceeding storage capacity. Whether you're headed for a quick weekend getaway or a bucket-list trip of a lifetime, these travel trunks are best in class.

Best Overall

Away The Trunk

Away The Trunk
PHOTO:

Away

Our Ratings
  • Capacity
    5/5
  • Organization
    5/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Maneuverability
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
Why We Love It
  • This sleek trunk rolls so smoothly and is easy to maneuver around tight corners, crowds, and over rough surfaces.

What to Consider
  • Make sure to pack your items evenly to distribute the weight, otherwise it may feel heavier on one side.

This trunk from Away truly stood out among all the trunks we’ve tested with a perfect score, and we especially noticed its durability and how easy it is to maneuver on either two or four wheels. We put it to the test, racing it around sharp turns, obstacle courses full of bystanders, and over rough surfaces, and we loved how it glided through all scenarios without ever getting stuck or feeling heavy. Even though it's a large trunk with a 107-liter capacity, it still managed to feel lightweight and didn’t put any strain on us while pulling or pushing it. The trunk also has compression straps and zippered mesh pockets inside to help you make the most of your space. We recommend making sure you distribute your belongings as evenly as you can in the 70/30 design to best distribute the weight so that it doesn’t feel uneven or lopsided. 

Out of all the Away luggage we’ve tested, this was one of the most durable pieces, standing up well to our table drops with barely any scratches. The outer shell has a lot of give, and when we hit it with a metal baseball bat, the bat actually bounced right back up without leaving any dents. It also has an easy-grip top handle, side handle, and underside grab handle that makes it easy to pull out of a car trunk or off a baggage carousel. 

The Details: 12.1 pounds | 31.3 x 17 x 13.7 inches | 107-liter capacity | 4 spinner wheels

Why We Love It
  • This set is sleek and stylish with twin latch locks and an extremely durable shell.

What to Consider
  • These trunks are some of the heavier options on this list for their size.

What’s even better than one trunk? A set of trunks. The July Trunk Set will give you two stylish pieces of luggage in both carry-on and checked sizes, both with 80/20 lid-opening designs. These matching trunks close with TSA latch locks instead of zippers for added security, and the locks proved to be durable even when we gave them some direct hits during our baseball bat test. We tested the glossy version of the trunks — which are also available in matte styles — and they impressed us with how strong they were, surviving our drop tests with only a few small scuff marks. We imagine these trunks could last a very long time even with heavy usage since the materials seemed to hold up well to rough handling. One of our favorite features of both trunks is that the handles can adjust to 20 different heights, which is helpful to wheel and navigate them both no matter how tall or short you are.

The Details: 8.4 pounds for carry-on; 13.2 pounds for checked | 21.7 x 15 x 8.7 inches for carry-on; 28.25 x 16.5 x 14.5 inches for checked | 42-liter capacity for carry-on; 95-liter capacity for checked | 4 spinner wheels

Delsey Paris Cruise 30 26-inch Trunk
PHOTO:

Delsey

Our Ratings
  • Capacity
    5/5
  • Organization
    4.5/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Maneuverability
    4.5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
Why We Love It
  • It’s very spacious and offers excellent value for the price.

What to Consider
  • Taller travelers might find the telescopic handle too short.

Delsey's Cruise 3.0 trunk truly stood out as one of the best checked trunk options on the market. It passed our durability tests with flying colors, with the polycarbonate shell and spinner wheels not showing any signs of wear and tear, which is exactly what you'd want from your checked suitcase (after all, airport handlers are not exactly known for their gentle handling of luggage). We were also impressed with how easy it was to maneuver it — even when fully packed — along various surfaces and quickly change directions with no drag so, whether you're heading to the airport or rolling it along a historic street in Europe, this is a solid choice. 

Speaking of its capacity, this Delsey trunk should definitely be at the top of your list for winter or cold-weather trips. We packed a long list of items, plus a very bulky puffer jacket with the help of its compression straps, and had no issues closing it. And, while it has a rather simple internal organization, you can invest in a good set of packing cubes if you'd like to have more control over how your belongings are organized. 

Another feature that we found extremely helpful is the built-in weight indicator, which turns red as soon as the trunk becomes too heavy (goodbye, overweight luggage fees!). Naturally, as expected from this reliable, stylish brand, you can also expect beautiful design and sturdy construction that will last for years to come.

The Details: 9.5 pounds | 29.5 x 16.5 x 14 inches | 90-liter capacity | 4 spinner wheels

Bric's Bellagio V2.0 Carry-on Spinner Trunk
PHOTO:

Saks Fifth Avenue

Our Ratings
  • Capacity
    4/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Maneuverability
    4.5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
Why We Love It
  • It has a lot of internal compartments and pockets to keep your belongings organized.

What to Consider
  • It’s on the smaller side, especially if you carry a lot of toiletries along with clothing.

Beautiful design, quality materials, and lightweight construction, what else could you want from the perfect carry-on? This Bric spinner trunk checks all the boxes. We found it exceptionally easy to push and pull, with the spinner wheels turning smoothly. While this carry-on trunk doesn't have a side handle, we found it easy to lift and place in overhead compartments during testing. 

It also scored a perfect rating in the design category for its innovative internal organization that features two main compartments, both of which have zippered pockets that will come in handy for storing laundry or shoes. The only thing we couldn't fit was our toiletries after packing for a four-day trip, but you can easily place those in your personal item. Finally, yes, we know this suitcase is an investment, but our tests showed that it is worth its price tag.

The Details: 7 pounds | 21.7 x 15 x 7.9 inches | 40-liter capacity | 4 spinner wheels

Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 26 Inch Trunk
PHOTO:

Delsey

Our Ratings
  • Capacity
    5/5
  • Organization
    5/5
  • Design
    4/5
  • Maneuverability
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
Why We Love It
  • Its shape and design make it the perfect option to transport bulky items.

What to Consider
  • We wish the telescopic handle went higher.

One of the reasons we'd check in a suitcase is if we are carrying bulky or oddly shaped items. And this is exactly why we love this Delsey trunk. After using this trunk for over three months, we love its size and shape, which is big enough to fit a ton of items for even a two-week long trip, but it isn't as bulky as a traditional checked bag. The trunk is designed with one side much deeper than the other, making it perfect for transporting ski equipment (like ski boots or a helmet, for example). Additionally, we packed a long list of items and still had plenty of room left over. We also appreciated the zippered pockets on the two divider flaps that could be used for smaller items. This is a very packing-cube-friendly trunk as you could easily stack them on top of each other in the deeper compartment.

Once you check it in at the airport, you can rest assured that your items will arrive at your destination safe and sound, thanks to the durable and tough polycarbonate construction that, together with the four double spinner wheels, held up remarkably well after several hits and drops, even in the creamy color. 

The Details: 10.87 pounds | 28.75 x 16.5 x 14 inches | 91-liter capacity | 4 spinner wheels

Travelpro X Travel Leisure Large Check In Trunk Spinner
PHOTO:

Travelpro

Our Ratings
  • Capacity
    5/5
  • Organization
    5/5
  • Design
    4.8/5
  • Maneuverability
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
Why We Love It
  • This spacious trunk has a 97-liter capacity and a split-case construction to divide the weight evenly.

What to Consider
  • If you pack this trunk full, you can expect to pay overweight baggage fees.

"This isn't a bag, it's an apartment," said one of our Travel + Leisure editors who tested this suitcase in our lab. The inside of this trunk is incredibly spacious, and rather than a 70/30 or 80/20 construction that most trunks have, this one splits evenly to distribute the weight so that it doesn't feel lopsided. We found it helpful that both sides of the clamshell zip closed to keep all of your items contained. There are also several pockets with zippers to stash smaller items and to prevent them from getting lost in the void.

This trunk is best suited for a long trip (or even a moving day) when you need ample space, but you can expect to pay overweight baggage fees if you pack it full because of the sheer size. Despite the size and weight, we found it shockingly easy to maneuver over different surfaces and through our obstacle course. Though the handle has three height adjustments, we thought the suitcase itself was tall, so shorter travelers may find the height a bit awkward. The price is an investment, but we think this high-quality piece will last a lifetime.

The Details: 12.6 pounds | 30 x 17 x 14 inches | 97-liter capacity | 4 spinner wheels

Why We Love It
  • This well-made trunk will protect your belongings like a tank.


What to Consider
  • The trunk has an aluminum frame which adds durability but also weight.

French automobile maker Peugeot helped Delsey create this sleek travel trunk, and we could definitely tell it was designed with the security and durability of its contents in mind. Since trunks can be large and deep, organization is key, and we love how this one has two main compartment with compression straps and mesh flaps on top with zippered pockets to keep everything locked in place. In addition to the two large compartments, there are also two zippered mesh pockets and a handy pocket for a Bluetooth tracker (tracker not included).

The four wheels are extremely well-made, and the bag is easy to turn and maneuver. However, because of the sheer weight of the trunk, travelers might find it heavy to lift when fully packed (it's almost 12 pounds when empty, due to its aluminum frame). Another factor to consider is that you'll hit an airline's weight limit quicker if you are not careful with how much you pack inside. Still, the sleek exterior withstood being checked during multiple trips over our three-month long-term testing period and protected all of our items well.

The Details: 11.7 pounds | 28 x 16 x 14 inches | 89-liter capacity | 4 spinner wheels

Steamline Luggage The Sweetheart Carry-on
PHOTO:

Steamline Luggage

Our Ratings
  • Maneuverability
    4.5/5
  • Durability
    4.5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
  • Capacity
    4.5/5
  • Design
    5/5
Why We Love It
  • The vintage-inspired design is stunning.

What to Consider
  • It has two wheels and two legs, so it’s not possible to roll this suitcase upright.

If you’re looking for a suitcase that will garner attention no matter where you are, this posh, vintage-inspired suitcase tops our list. Gold-hued latches open up to reveal a silky, watercolor floral lining and the exterior features gorgeous leather accents. Don't waste your time — and this bag's Instagram potential — by checking it in; style it as part of your travel outfit, especially since the light-colored exterior may not stay pristine on the tarmac.

While this carry-on only has two wheels, we found it easy to maneuver; it does stand upright thanks to the two small legs opposite the wheels, but you need to pull it behind you as you go. Another thing to keep in mind is that while it measures 20 inches, it is pretty small on the inside, so you might find it hard to pack more than a few days’ worth of clothing. However, the classic rectangular trunk shape means you can maximize the internal storage space (as opposed to carry-ons with rounded corners). 

The Details: 8.8 pounds | 20 x 14.5 x 6.5 inches | 2 wheels

Our Testing Process

Our team has tested more than 400 suitcases, assessing and gathering insights on a wide range of products. We first verify all bags’ dimensions and weight and then proceed with rigorous tests in our New York City lab and in our real-life travels to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each option, including maneuverability over a wide range of terrain like carpet and gravel. We also carefully inspect all exterior and interior elements, such as wheels, pockets, handles, and zippers, and simulate real travel situations like drops and whacks.

We verify the storage capacity of each trunk by packing it with a set list of clothing, shoes, and toiletries; carry-on bags were assessed for a four-day trip while larger trunks were packed for journeys of a week (or more). In order to make our list, each trunk's features must work properly, including zippers that run without snags and handles that extend and retract smoothly. We built an airplane set to lift carry-on bags into overhead bins and roll them down aisles. We threw bags of all sizes off tables and hit them with baseball bats to test durability. Finally, we evaluate each bag's overall design and functionality and, only after coming to a conclusion about the strengths and weaknesses do we consider the value based on price. Our tests continue in the real-world for up to six months to make sure the bags can stand up to airports, trains, cars, and everything in between.

Luggage stored in an overhead compartment

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Tips for Buying a Travel Trunk

Choose the size and features that fit your needs

Gone are the days when trunks were a fairly standard, rectangular box. Travelers have plenty of choices nowadays in terms of size, design, and shape. Both carry-on and checked options have features that render them functional for many occasions. The 70/30 or 80/20 design (where one side is bigger than the other) is perfect for transporting large, oddly shaped items. Clamshell trunks have a zipper down the middle, while some have classic latches for extra security. You can also opt for a trunk with a flap top to stack and secure your packing cubes inside. We love the style of vintage-inspired travel trunks, but before purchasing one, make sure they feature modern additions such as wheels, telescopic handles, and carrying handles for easy transportation.

Look for lightweight construction

While most domestic airlines don't have a weight limit on carry-on luggage, you must be mindful of the trunk's weight if you are traveling in Europe. For example, low-cost carriers such as RyanAir or WizzAir will allow for a 10-kilogram or 22-pound bag (versus a more standard 12-kilogram or 26-pound allowance). For checked bags, almost all airlines impose a 50-pound limit for travelers in economy class (business and first-class passengers are often allowed a greater weight allowance on checked bags).

Other than airline weight restrictions, the other reason to choose a lightweight piece is that you will have to haul it around and lift it, whether that’s into an overhead compartment or into a car. Heavier trunks are also much more difficult to wheel, especially on unpaved terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How big can my travel trunk be?

    Travel trunks come in carry-on and checked sizes, so you should pick one based on your needs and preferences. Carry-on trunks often come in 20- and 21-inch lengths (that includes the shell and the wheels), which fully adheres to most airlines' requirements. They typically range in weight from about seven to nine pounds. 


    Larger trunks vary in dimensions, but the most common is 26 inches long. However, before you purchase a trunk to check in, consider its weight. Travel trunks tend to be heavier than regular suitcases because of their design and construction, so there’s a higher risk of being charged an overweight fee.

  • Why should I pick a travel trunk over a checked suitcase?

    Travel trunks have been popular throughout history because of their design — one side is usually deeper than the other, making them ideal for transporting bulky or oddly shaped items. Trunks are often sturdier and more durable than regular checked luggage, which is also good news for those traveling with fragile and delicate items (like pottery, artwork, and camera or sports equipment).

  • How do I clean a travel trunk?

    Keeping your travel trunk clean will significantly extend its life. Vacuum the interior with a handheld vacuum, and then wipe it down with a wet cloth or treat any lining stains with a soapy solution. Some trunks have removable pockets or lining, so you can simply throw those in the washing machine. 


    Many travel trunks have hard shells made from polycarbonate, so you can use the same cleaning products for standard luggage. Don't forget to disinfect it, too. (Clorox or Lysol wipes work best.) And finally, before storing it, let it dry completely, zip it up, cover it in a dust bag (or trash bag), and place it in a cool, dry spot. Avoid humid areas like attics or basements with no airflow.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Dobrina Zhekova is a lifestyle journalist with over a decade of editorial experience in print and digital media in the U.S. and Europe. For this story, she worked with T+L's editors to determine the best travel trunks after a series of months-long real-world and lab tests, where every option was evaluated based on rigorous assessments. We will continue to update the article as we test new trunks that we love.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Edited by
Jackie Cucco
Jackie Cucco, Commerce Testing Editor
Jackie Cucco is a Commerce Testing Editor at Travel + Leisure, where she assigns, edits, and writes travel-related product reviews based on in-depth product testing. She previously worked as a travel agent, has a Master’s degree in journalism, and has over six years of experience creating gift guides and writing about various products. She has made over 100 TV appearances discussing consumer products and shopping trends.
Updated by
Taylor Fox
Taylor Fox, Commerce Updates Writer at Travel + Leisure
Taylor Fox is the Commerce Outdoor Gear Editor at Travel + Leisure where she tests, researches, and writes about travel products. Taylor holds a Master’s in Geography and has been a writer and editor for over nine years.

Related Articles