The Best Softsided Luggage for Lightweight and Durable Packing

Packing for a trip can be more stressful than planning it. Besides figuring out what you need to bring, you also have to find a bag big enough to hold it all without exceeding any regulations.  Most of us want something that is spacious, easy to carry, and relatively easy to organize—and if it looks good too, that’s icing on the cake.

While hard-shell luggage is popular for its durability, soft-side luggage offers a wider range of options and the convenience of exterior pockets that allow you to keep necessities accessible without baring your personals in public. There are a ton of great options out there, but to streamline the shopping experience, here are some of our favorites for your next adventure. 

Away Softside Bigger Carry On 

If you're traveling with only a carry-on, you want to make the most of it. This model from Away can hold up to 44.3 liters when fully expanded, and is designed to fit within the carry-on regulations of most commercial flights. If you want to make sure that it will be acceptable, check out the brand's airline list here. And if you want to be on the safe side, stick with the slightly smaller Softside Carry On.

SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage 

SwissGear is a staple brand when it comes to luggage, and their basic yet durable products are designed to last for the long haul. This particular bag has over 26,000 ratings and a 4.3/5 star average. It also comes in eight colors, three sizes—carry-on, small, and large—and three set options. 

Calpak Luka Soft-Sided Carry On 

Puffer silhouettes continue to trend in the realm of handbags and luggage, but the plush design choice isn’t just for fashion; it can actually be a useful way to protect your packables from damage. This model features two front pockets, a protected laptop sleeve, and a TSA lock to keep your belongings safe and secure. It also has 360-degree wheels for a smooth ride in any direction. 

Thule Aion Carry-On Spinner Wheeled Luggage 

This Thule model is designed to last, featuring a waxed canvas material and a structured polycarbonate back. It has an additional internal compression cube that is great for keeping dirty clothes separate, and an interior mesh pocket to keep smaller items secure. 

Samsonite Virtuosa Wheeled Duffel 

Yes, luggage is first and foremost about functionality, but if you don’t like how it looks, there’s a good chance you won’t use it. This wheeled duffel checks both boxes with a sleek, understated design, classic navy or olive color options, and stunning faux-leather handles. Plus, the topside zipper still lets you access contents with ease. 

The North Face Rolling Thunder 28-inch Bag 

If you have to check your bag, you will be able to spot this sunshine yellow model from across the airport. It has a duffel-like shape and material that allow you to stuff it to the max, while the clamshell design lets you see everything inside with ease. Buckle straps also help to keep contents secure and compressed. 

Eagle Creek Migrate 130-liter Wheeled Duffle Bag 

This duffel is a three-in-one, with the option to carry it by the handles, wear it as a backpack, or pull it on its wheels. The fabric is lightweight yet incredibly durable, and it is made from 100% recycled materials, so you can keep your carbon footprint as low as possible, even when flying. 

Coolife Luggage 4 Piece Set 

If you're traveling as a family—or simply don’t know how to pack light—this set features four soft-side sizes, three of which roll. TSA locks keep your interior belongings safe, while an outer pocket lets you keep certain items easily accessible.