As an entrepreneur, your luggage shouldn’t just carry your belongings—it should carry your business. Whether you’re heading to a quick client meeting across the country or prepping for a month-long global pitch tour, your gear has to keep up. That’s why at Grey Journal, we took a professional approach to finding the best luggage of 2025.
We spoke with founders, frequent flyers, and remote professionals—people who travel often and know what makes a good bag. Together, we reviewed more than a dozen top-rated models from both well-known and emerging luggage brands, focusing on the features that matter most to entrepreneurs: durability, smart functionality, efficient storage, and a design that works in both business and casual settings.
After months of evaluation and hands-on use, we narrowed it down to the 8 best luggage picks of the year. Our list of best luggage of 2025 is based on:
- Durability
- Weight and Size
- Storage and Compartments
- Smart Features
- Warranty and Brand Reliability
In this guide, we break down the best luggage of 2025 across three key categories:
- Carry-On Luggage.
- Checked Luggage.
- Smart Luggage & Sets.
1. Best Carry-On Luggage Of 2025
A carry-on luggage is a compact suitcase or bag designed to fit in an airplane’s overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. It’s typically used for short trips and allows travelers to skip the check-in counter and baggage claim, saving valuable time.
Away The Bigger Carry-On
| Feature | Detail |
| Size | 22.7″ x 15.4″ x 9.6″ |
| Weight | 7.9 lbs |
| Material | 100% polycarbonate (lightweight, impact-resistant) |
| Capacity | 47.9 liters |
| Smart Features | Ejectable battery (USB charging), compression system |
| Warranty | 100-day trial + lifetime warranty |
| Price | $295 (battery add-on: ~$20) |
| Best For | Frequent flyers, startup teams, solo founders |
Away’s Bigger Carry-On is a practical option for entrepreneurs and professionals who travel regularly. Its simple, durable design holds up well and looks professional without being flashy. A removable USB battery is a handy touch for charging devices during layovers or long days on the go, and the interior compression system helps make packing a little easier—whether you’re bringing work items, clothing, or both.
It’s a bit roomier than standard carry-ons but still fits in most U.S. airline overhead bins. The overall design is clean and business-friendly, and small details like the hidden laundry bag and optional front pocket for laptop access add a layer of convenience for work travel.
Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Spinner
Built for Frequent Flyers and Professionals on the Move
| Feature | Detail |
| Size | 21″ x 14″ x 9″ (approx. 23.5″ with wheels) |
| Weight | 7.8 lbs |
| Material | High-density nylon with DuraGuard® stain-resistant coating |
| Expandable | Yes – adds 2″ of extra space |
| Tech Features | Entrepreneurs, frequent domestic flyers, soft-side fans |
| Organization | Suiter system, multiple compartments, exterior zip pockets |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty (includes airline damage) |
| Price Range | $280–$300 |
| Best For | Entrepreneurs, frequent domestic flyers, softside fans |
The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Expandable Spinner is a dependable option for travelers who need something functional and easy to manage. Its nylon exterior holds up well against everyday wear, and the leather trim adds a clean, professional touch. The wheels roll smoothly, and the adjustable handle makes it easier to move through busy airports.
Inside, it includes a built-in suiter system to help keep dress clothes or work outfits in good shape during travel. There’s also a USB port and a pocket for a power bank, which is handy for charging devices on the go. The exterior pockets make it simple to grab your laptop, tablet, or documents when needed.
Samsonite Freeform 21” Spinner
| Feature | Detail |
| Size | 21.25″ x 15.25″ x 10″ |
| Weight | 6.5 lbs |
| Material | Polypropylene hardside shell (light, flexible, scratch-resistant) |
| Expandable | Yes – zippered expansion panel |
| Tech Features | None |
| Organization | Interior cross-straps, zippered divider |
| Warranty | 10-year limited global warranty |
| Price Range | $170–$200 (frequently discounted to ~$150) |
| Best For | Lightweight travel, international flights, tight overhead bins |
The Samsonite Freeform 21” Spinner features a lightweight 6.5 lb build, a durable polypropylene hardshell with a scratch-resistant finish, and 360° spinner wheels for easy mobility. It includes a telescoping handle, a zippered expansion for extra packing space, interior cross-straps with a divider, and a TSA-approved combination lock. While it doesn’t offer tech features, it’s backed by a 10-year limited warranty and offers reliable performance for carry-on travel.
2. Best Checked Luggage Of 2025
Checked luggage is a larger suitcase or bag that’s handed over to the airline during check-in and stored in the plane’s cargo hold. It’s typically used for longer trips or when travelers need to pack more than what fits in a carry-on.
July Checked 26″ (Medium)
| Feature | Detail |
| Capacity | 80 liters (expandable up to ~90L) |
| Weight | ~8.1 lbs (medium size) |
| Material | Aerospace-grade German polycarbonate + aluminum corner bumpers |
| Wheels | SilentMove™ 360° spinner wheels |
| Handle | Multi-stop telescopic with 20 height settings |
| Interior | Y-strap compression system, removable laundry bag |
| Security | TSA-approved lock, water-resistant zippers |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty + 100-day trial |
| Price Range | $325–$345 (medium size) |
| Best For | Frequent flyers, longer trips, gear-heavy travel |
The July Checked 26″ offers a practical mix of space and portability, making it a reliable option for longer business trips. Weighing just over 8 lbs, it’s among the lightest mid-size checked suitcases in its category, with a capacity of up to 80 liters—expandable if you need the extra room. Inside, you’ll find compression straps and a removable laundry bag, which help keep items organized throughout your trip.
The telescopic handle features 20 adjustable height settings, allowing for a more comfortable grip. This feature is useful for navigating airports, conferences, or international travel with ease.
Calpak Ambeur 26″ Medium
| Feature | Detail |
| Capacity | ~68 liters |
| Weight | ~9.3 lbs |
| Material | Polycarbonate hardshell with metallic finish |
| Wheels | Four 360° spinner wheels |
| Handle | Telescoping handle |
| Interior | Zippered divider, tie-down straps, small accessory pockets |
| Security | Integrated TSA-approved combination lock |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty |
| Price Range | Around $245 (often available in set deals) |
| Best For | Style-conscious professionals, branding-forward entrepreneurs |
The Calpak Ambeur 26″ is a medium-sized checked suitcase with a polycarbonate hard shell and a metallic finish. It weighs around 9.3 lbs and holds approximately 68 liters of packing space. The interior includes a zippered divider, compression straps, and small accessory pockets.
It rolls on four spinner wheels, has a telescoping handle, and comes with a built-in TSA-approved combination lock. The suitcase does not expand but nests easily with other sizes in the Ambeur set. Available in several color options, including black, silver, and rose gold.
The exterior finish may show scratches over time, but overall, it’s a well-designed piece with a nice balance of style and function.
3. Best Smart Luggage Of 2025
Smart luggage refers to suitcases or travel bags that come equipped with built-in technology designed to make travel more convenient. These features can include USB charging ports, removable batteries, GPS tracking, digital locks, weight sensors, and even app connectivity.
July Carry-On Pro
| Feature | Detail |
| Size | Approx. 21.5″ x 15″ x 8.5″ (carry-on compliant) |
| Weight | ~8.4 lbs |
| Material | German polycarbonate hard shell |
| Smart Features | Built-in 10,000 mAh battery (USB-C & USB-A), laptop pocket |
| Battery | Airline-approved, ejectable (37 Wh) |
| Wheels | SilentMove™ 360° spinner wheels |
| Laptop Compartment | Front access, padded, fits up to 15″ laptop |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty + 100-day trial |
| Price Range | $345 (includes battery) |
| Best For | Business travel, remote work, tech-forward entrepreneurs |
The July Carry-On Pro features a built-in 10,000 mAh removable battery with USB-C and USB-A ports for charging devices while traveling. It also includes a padded front pocket that fits up to a 15″ laptop, allowing for quick access during airport security or while working on the go.
The case is made from German polycarbonate and has four smooth-rolling spinner wheels. It weighs around 8.4 lbs—slightly heavier than average due to the built-in tech.
While it doesn’t offer GPS or app connectivity, its charging and laptop-access features make it a practical choice for travelers who work on the move. GPS tracking can be added separately with a device like an AirTag.
Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On (USB Version)
| Feature | Detail |
| Size | 21″ x 14″ x 9″ (carry-on compliant) |
| Weight | 7.8 lbs |
| Material | Professionals who prefer a classic design with tech readiness |
| Smart Features | External USB port, power bank pocket (battery not included) |
| Other Highlights | RFID-blocking pocket (select models), fold-out suiter system |
| Capacity | ~46 liters |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty (includes airline damage) |
| Price Range | $280–$300 |
| Best For | Professionals who prefer classic design with tech readiness |
The Travelpro Platinum Elite USB model is a soft side carry-on with a built-in USB port and an interior pocket for your power bank. It’s a practical setup for charging phones or other small devices during travel, without built-in electronics that can trigger airline restrictions.
The bag includes standard features such as an organized interior layout, a suiter compartment for clothes, and smooth-rolling spinner wheels. Some models also come with an RFID-blocking pocket for cards or passports.
A power bank is not included—you’ll need to provide your own. The bag does not offer additional smart features like tracking or digital locks, which may be preferred for travelers looking for a more tech-integrated setup.
ForwardX Ovis Auto-Follow Suitcase
| Feature | Detail |
| Size | 21″ carry-on compliant |
| Weight | ~13–14 lbs (heavier due to built-in motors and sensors) |
| Technology | Auto-follow with computer vision, obstacle avoidance, wristband alerts |
| Battery | 96 Wh removable (powers motion + USB ports, airline-compliant when removed) |
| Charging | USB ports for devices, powered by internal battery |
| Smart Add-Ons | Wearable wristband, alerts if separated |
| Warranty | Varies by retailer |
| Price Range | $799–$899 |
| Best For | Tech-forward travelers, multitaskers, innovation-focused founders |
The ForwardX Ovis Auto-Follow Suitcase is a smart carry-on designed to move alongside you without being pulled. It uses built-in cameras and sensors powered by computer vision to detect your position and follow at walking speed (up to 3 mph). A connected wristband lets the suitcase know where you are and sends alerts if it gets too far behind, helping prevent accidental loss or separation.
The suitcase is heavier than most standard carry-ons due to its motorized components, weighing around 13–14 lbs. It runs on a removable 96 Wh battery that powers both the movement system and built-in USB ports for charging your devices. The battery is airline-compliant as long as it’s removed before checking the bag. When not using the auto-follow feature, the suitcase can function like a regular rolling carry-on, and the interior includes a basic, easy-to-use layout.
Let’s Pack Our Blog
Choosing the right luggage in 2025 isn’t just about looks or labels—it’s about finding what fits the way you travel, work, and manage your time on the go. Whether you’re packing light for client meetings or checking a bag full of samples for a trade show, the best luggage works around your needs, not the other way around. From lightweight designs to smart features like USB ports and auto-follow tech, there’s something out there for every kind of entrepreneur.
This guide covered a range of options—carry-ons, checked bags, hard shells, smart suitcases, and even stylish sets—each selected for how well it balances practicality, tech-readiness, and day-to-day use. No single piece of luggage fits every scenario, but the goal is simple: help you travel more efficiently, stay organized, and focus on what really matters—your work. Safe travels.
