9 Best Softside Checked Luggages of 2026

If you’re after a no-frills workhorse that won’t drain your wallet, the Amazon Basics 28-inch softside suitcase delivers where it counts. With an expandable capacity offering up to 28% more space, this bag is built for travelers who pack heavy but want flexibility—perfect for 2–3 week getaways. The ultra-light 7.9-pound frame makes lifting and loading effortless, while the four 360-degree spinner wheels ensure smooth gliding through crowded terminals. It tackles the core pain point of budget luggage: durability vs. cost—striking a rare balance with reinforced stitching and a resilient polyester shell.

In real-world use, this suitcase shines during long layovers and tight overhead bins. Measuring 30.1 inches overall, it fits most airline checked baggage limits and slides easily into cramped trunks or storage compartments. The soft sides compress slightly when needed, a subtle perk when overhead space is tight. While the dual interior zippered pockets help with organization, they’re modest compared to premium rivals. On rough surfaces like cracked sidewalks or uneven jet bridges, the wheels stay responsive but can feel a bit wobbly under full load—nothing catastrophic, but noticeable beside higher-end models.

Compared to the Samsonite UpLIFT or Travelpro Crew Classic, this model lacks advanced features like self-aligning wheels or TSA locks, but that’s expected at this price. It’s ideal for occasional travelers or students who need reliable, spacious luggage without bells and whistles. For those prioritizing value over luxury, this Amazon staple outperforms its price tag—offering solid construction and practical design that beats most budget contenders in longevity and usability.

The Samsonite Solyte DLX isn’t just built for long trips—it’s engineered to survive them. With a robust 100% polyester weave and .75-inch expansion, this 25-inch spinner balances compact dimensions with generous packing room, making it a top pick for extended travel. The Smart Fix buckles keep compression straps neatly tucked, while the WetPak pocket adds smart functionality for toiletries or damp clothes—small touches that elevate real-world usability. This is luggage that thinks ahead, solving common frustrations like disorganized interiors and messy straps.

During testing, the double spinner wheels rolled with surprising quietness and precision, handling both airport tile and outdoor pavement with minimal resistance. At 8.9 lbs, it’s slightly heavier than ultralight models, but the added durability justifies the weight. The privacy ID tag is a thoughtful inclusion, and the exterior pocket offers quick access to essentials—though it’s not deep enough for larger tablets. One limitation: the expansion zipper, while useful, slightly distorts the bag’s profile when open, affecting balance when fully packed.

When stacked against the Amazon Basics or SwissGear Sion, the Solyte DLX trades raw capacity for smarter design and long-term resilience. It’s not the lightest, but it’s among the most thoughtfully organized in its class. For frequent flyers on week-long or international trips, this bag delivers peace of mind through proven materials, solid warranty, and reliable mobility—a step up in refinement without veering into luxury pricing.

The Away Large Softside suitcase redefines premium travel with sophisticated engineering wrapped in minimalist elegance. Its patented compression system doesn’t just save space—it transforms how you pack, keeping clothes neatly folded and maximizing every cubic inch for 2+ week trips. The proprietary stabilizer in the trolley handle eliminates the dreaded wobble, giving you rock-solid control even when navigating rush-hour terminals. Add in TSA-approved color-matching locks and hidden front pockets padded for tech protection, and you’ve got a suitcase that blends security, smarts, and style in one sleek 29-inch frame.

Real-world performance confirms its elite status: the durable nylon exterior shrugs off scrapes and spills, while the dual-access grab handles make lifting from car trunks or overhead bins effortless. At full capacity, the bag remains stable thanks to a low center of gravity, and the quick-release handle with two height settings accommodates travelers of all statures. The interior’s laundry bag and front lid storage are game-changers for separating clean from used clothes—though the lack of a wet pocket is a missed opportunity. It handles rough terrain well, but the wheels, while smooth, aren’t as shock-absorbent as Travelpro’s magnetic system.

Positioned against the Travelpro Platinum Elite, the Away offers similar luxury but with a more modern aesthetic and better interior compression. It’s pricier than most, yet undercuts rivals with comparable build and warranty. Ideal for style-conscious professionals and luxury seekers, this suitcase delivers long-term value through design intelligence and lifetime coverage—proving that premium doesn’t have to mean over-engineered.

The Samsonite UpLIFT is a masterclass in eco-conscious engineering without sacrifice—clocking in at just 7.7 lbs, it’s one of the lightest 27.75-inch softside suitcases on the market. What sets it apart is its body made from 100% recycled PET bottles, proving sustainability and strength aren’t mutually exclusive. The RightHeight handle system with multi-stop adjustments lets taller travelers avoid hunching, while the dual-access mesh pocket offers seamless reach to passports or earbuds whether the bag is upright or flat. This is luggage designed for the modern, mobile traveler who values efficiency and environmental responsibility.

In action, the patented shock-absorbing wheels deliver a whisper-quiet roll, outperforming many in its class on uneven surfaces. The removable 3-1-1 Wet Pouch is a standout—secure, leak-resistant, and easy to pull out at security. Despite its featherweight build, the polyester fabric resists scuffs and maintains structure even when fully expanded. However, the interior space, while smartly organized, feels slightly tighter than competitors like the Traveler’s Choice Lares—a trade-off for its compact footprint and airline-friendly dimensions.

Next to the Amazon Basics, the UpLIFT is clearly in a higher tier—offering better wheels, smarter storage, and eco-cred. It’s not as rugged as the Travelpro Platinum Elite, but it strikes a sweet balance between weight, durability, and innovation. Best suited for light packers and eco-minded flyers, this suitcase proves that going green doesn’t mean going barebones—it means traveling smarter.

The American Tourister 4 KIX 2.0 doesn’t just turn heads—it owns the terminal with its carbon fiber texture and gunmetal hardware, blending sporty edge with sophisticated finish. This 28-inch spinner isn’t just about looks; it’s a spacious beast built for 6+ day trips, offering generous packing volume in a lightweight shell. The ergonomic trolley grip adjusts intuitively to your height, while the large zipper pulls make opening and closing a breeze, even with cold or gloved hands. For travelers who want style without sacrificing function, this suitcase delivers bold aesthetics backed by solid performance.

On the move, the wear-tested ball wheels provide reliable roll, though they’re noisier and less fluid than true multi-directional spinners like those on Samsonite or Travelpro models. The rugged polyester body holds up well to bumps and scrapes, but the softside construction lacks the structured rigidity of higher-end bags. Interior organization is basic—no wet pockets or suiter—but the expandable design gives you breathing room for souvenirs. It performs best on smooth surfaces; rough pavement exposes its mobility limits.

When compared to the SwissGear Sion, the KIX 2.0 wins on visual flair but lags in wheel sophistication. It’s not built for executives or frequent flyers demanding whisper-quiet mobility, but it’s perfect for younger travelers, road trippers, or weekend adventurers who want a lively, durable bag that stands out. With its strong build and fashion-forward design, it offers personality-driven value—a suitcase that says you care how you travel.

The Travelpro Crew Classic earns its title as Best Overall with a precision-engineered mobility system that redefines smooth rolling. Its eight MagnaTrac self-aligning spinner wheels don’t just glide—they lock into place, eliminating wobble and delivering laser-guided control through crowded terminals. Paired with the airline-grade PowerScope handle offering four height stops up to 42.5 inches, this bag fits travelers of all statures flawlessly. The tapered expansion design adds up to 2 inches of space while keeping the center of gravity low, drastically reducing tip risk—a rare win in expandable luggage.

In real-world use, the ECOFAB recycled lining and H2O guard add eco-friendly protection against spills and stains, while the YKK zippers operate with buttery smoothness and include a repair kit—smart touches for long-term durability. The fold-out suiter is a game-changer for business travelers, and the water-resistant storage compartment keeps toiletries secure. At 9.4 lbs, it’s not the lightest, but the high-density DuraGuard fabric justifies the weight with exceptional abrasion resistance. Only on cobblestone or gravel does the roll become slightly bumpy.

Versus the Samsonite Solyte DLX, the Crew Classic offers better wheel tech, superior handle adjustability, and a more comprehensive warranty. While pricier than budget picks, it’s a long-term investment for those who fly frequently. Ideal for business travelers, flight crews, or anyone who demands reliability, this suitcase balances innovation, durability, and thoughtful design—making it the most complete package in the lineup.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite is the gold standard for durability, built to endure years of checked baggage abuse without flinching. Its high-density nylon with DuraGuard coating resists tears, stains, and scuffs like armor, while the magnetic self-aligning dual spinner wheels deliver near-silent, wobble-free rolling—the smoothest in the category. The tapered 2-inch expansion adds volume without compromising stability, and the built-in suiter ensures shirts and suits arrive wrinkle-free. This is luggage for professionals who can’t afford failures—engineered for airline crews and executives alike.

During testing, the Precision Glide System handled tight airport turns and uneven pavement with unmatched composure. The non-slip Contour Grip handle stays secure even when wet, and the TSA-compliant lock offers peace of mind during inspections. Interior organization is top-tier: removable wet pocket, tie-down straps, and multiple accessory compartments keep everything in place. At 9.8 lbs, it’s the heaviest here, but that weight translates to unmatched structural integrity. The top, side, and bottom handles make lifting from any angle effortless.

Compared to the Away or Samsonite Solyte DLX, the Platinum Elite is more rugged and better equipped for frequent use. While it costs more than most, its lifetime warranty and trusted companion promise eliminate long-term risk. For road warriors and luxury travelers who prioritize longevity over lightness, this suitcase offers maximum return on investment—delivering military-grade resilience with executive comfort.

The Traveler’s Choice Lares is the undisputed king of capacity, offering a massive 30.5-inch frame that’s perfect for globe-trotters, expats, or anyone who packs like they’re moving countries. With 2 inches of expansion, it swallows clothes, gear, and souvenirs with ease—ideal for long-term stays or family trips. The molded base and sturdy frame provide structural rigidity rare in softside bags, preventing sagging when fully loaded. Add in dual spinner wheels and an aluminum handle, and you’ve got a high-capacity workhorse that still rolls smoothly.

In practice, the fully lined interior with middle divider and tie-down straps keeps contents compressed and organized, though it lacks specialty features like a suiter or wet pocket. The zippered front pockets are handy for last-minute items, but not deep enough for large electronics. At this size, maneuverability is always a challenge, but the 360-degree wheels handle tight turns better than expected. It’s best suited for pre-clearance check-ins or road trips—not ideal for narrow European aisles or overhead bins.

Next to the Away Large or Amazon Basics 28-inch, the Lares wins on sheer volume but sacrifices portability. It’s not as refined as premium models, but for travelers who need maximum space without hardshell bulk, it’s a no-compromise solution. If you’re packing for months abroad or hauling sports gear, this suitcase delivers unmatched utility at a mid-range price—proving that big doesn’t have to mean clunky.

The SwissGear Sion makes a powerful case for long-trip value, combining heritage-inspired design with rugged functionality in a 29-inch frame built for 7–9 night journeys. Its scuff-resistant polyester fabric withstands repeated use, while the fully lined interior and adjustable tie-down straps keep garments compressed and wrinkle-minimized. The four 360-degree spinner wheels offer reliable glide, and the top, side, and bottom handles make lifting from any angle effortless—ideal for car trunks or overhead bins. Backed by a 10-year warranty, this bag promises longevity without luxury pricing.

In real-world testing, the Sion handled airport chaos with confidence, rolling smoothly on tile and carpet. The softside construction allows slight compression, helpful when overhead bins are tight. However, the wheels, while functional, lack the precision of Travelpro’s magnetic system and can feel gritty on rough pavement. Interior organization is straightforward—no wet pockets or suiter—but sufficient for most travelers. At 137 bucks, it hits a sweet spot between cost and capability, offering more durability than Amazon Basics and better value than Samsonite.

When compared to the American Tourister KIX 2.0, the Sion offers better wheel performance and a more mature design. It’s not as premium as the Travelpro Crew Classic, but it delivers 90% of the performance at half the price. Ideal for students, road trippers, or budget-conscious families, this suitcase proves that smart engineering doesn’t require a luxury tag—just solid build, smart features, and long-term reliability.