Shop the suitcases recommended by travel experts

When it comes to travel, besides booking flights, deciding on a suitcase can be one of the most time-consuming decisions. With so many factors to consider – colour, material, size, brand, hard or soft case, zipper or clasp – it can be hard to know which is the best choice.

That's why, when we get the chance to hear advice from travel experts, frequent flyers, and seasoned travellers, it would be foolish not to listen.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Rollaboard

Was $359, now $215

Emany Cheneke, international tour guide who constantly navigates tough terrains with her suitcase.

"As a tour guide in the Omo Valley, I've witnessed firsthand the importance of having a durable and reliable suitcase. This lightweight yet sturdy suitcase has accompanied me on countless treks through rugged terrains, withstanding the harsh conditions of the Omo Valley with ease. Its high-quality materials and thoughtful design have ensured that my belongings remain secure and organised, even during the most adventurous excursions."

"Whether navigating the winding paths of remote villages or traversing the dusty plains, this suitcase has proven its worth time and time again, making it an indispensable travel companion for any guide in this region".

American Tourister Airconic Spinner

Was $335, now $201

Recommended by Kristine Tarbert, 9Travel editor, and Sarah Swain, 9Travel writer, who have boarded 35 flights in the last year between them.

"I use an American Tourister suitcase... It's super light, which is great for keeping to my luggage allowance. I love the colour; it stands out a bit more at the airport. It also has a waterproof zipper which is good in case it's pouring when you land." – Kristine

"I have multiple bright American Tourister Airconic Hard Spinner suitcases in pink, yellow, and orange. They're perfect for check-in luggage as they're lightweight and easy to spot. I've had them for a couple of years and they've been on many overseas trips. You can pack a lot into them too, though last week I packed so much into one that the zipper came out of its holder. Luckily, it went back in." – Sarah

You can read more about Sarah's use of the Airconic suitcase in Japan here.

Samsonite Proxis 55cm Expandable Luggage

Was $699, now $419.40

Recommended by John Mavroudis, luggage expert and Samsonite general manager, who knows a thing about suitcases.

"Personally love my Proxis. It features all my favourite things; built-in strength and reliability, and colour – I use the Proxis. Best of all, it's unmissable when it comes along the luggage carousel and the double wheels make it really easy to wheel through the terminal."

READ MORE: 'Unmissable': This is the suitcase a luggage expert uses and why

American Tourister Curio 2

Was $359, now $215

Recommended by Joe Booth, Virgin Australia flight attendant who has spent too many hours around the luggage carousel.

"I use the American Tourister Curio 2. It's perfect for both work and leisure, with expandable space and a 10-year warranty. A hard-shell suitcase with four wheels is the way to go – it's durable, easy to manoeuvre, and keeps your belongings secure."

Also recommended by Danielle Phyland, a solo traveller and freelance travel writer who has travelled to over 68 countries with her American Tourister suitcase.

"I am a big believer in having the right tool for the job. My favourite suitcase is my hard clam shell American Tourister case, drop in an AirTag and she is good to go. It took me years to refine my luggage suite, and for the last 10 years I have been in luggage nirvana."

July Carry on Luggage

Get it for $325

Recommended by Adam Barr, Virgin Australia pilot who puts the 'frequent' in frequent flyer.

"I have an excellent July carry-on hard suitcase I use mainly for work. Hard cases are the best, especially if you carry more fragile things."

READ MORE: Pilot reveals the 'best kind' of suitcase to travel with – and one kind to avoid

Tosca Eminent KK50 24″ Trolley Case

Was $629, now $459

Recommended by Nikki de Weerd and Miguel Fuentes co-founders of Abroadly, who have taken their suitcase to seven countries.

"The reason we love Tosca is because of its slick minimalist look. The designs are sporty, yet formal. The price point of this luggage is also mid-range. They are good value for money and we love to support Aussie brands." – Nikki

"What I love about the Tosca suitcase is that it is small and rolls very smoothly. And it's got a TSA lock. This is helpful, as airports have a key to open TSA locks if they need to check something in your suitcase, without having to break your lock." – Miguel

Samsonite's C-Lite Spinner

Was $749, now $449.40

Recommended by Dean Van Es, founder and CEO of Fast Cover Travel Insurance, who appreciates the value of reliable luggage.

"I've been lucky enough to experience all kinds of travel, which means I've tried plenty of different packs and suitcases over the years. For longer trips, Samsonite's C-Lite Spinner has yet to let me down. It's big, brawny and still looks great despite taking a punishing on several international trips. Baggage isn't always treated as delicately as we'd like, so I feel better knowing my valuables are well protected."

Kadi Cloud Check-in Large Soft Side Suitcase

Was $379, now $189.50

Recommended by Darren Kelk, a travel agent who's been travelling with his suitcase non-stop for six months.

"As someone who has travelled the world, I know how essential a sturdy and reliable suitcase is. After years of using hard-shell cases, I've been loving Kadi's new soft-shell design It's lightweight, under four kilograms for the large case, yet incredibly durable, made from water-resistant and dual-layered polyester. It also has smart features like a removable laundry bag, which is a game-changer for both short and long trips. Even though I've only had it for a few months, I'm incredibly impressed and confident it will last for years to come, thanks to its lifetime warranty."

READ MORE: Lightest carry-on luggage for the savvy travellers