The 11 Best Kids’ Luggage of 2024

Whether they’ll be stamping their passports after a long-haul flight or heading off on a weekend road trip, kids love having their own suitcases when they travel. Not only does this give you more room to pack everything your family will need, but toting around their own luggage also helps kids develop a sense of responsibility. Finding a bag they love is key, and that means looking for luggage made with kids in mind. The best kids’ luggage is lightweight, durable, and sized just for them in designs they’ll adore.

The ideal luggage for your child will depend on their age and the length of your trip, destination, and budget. To find kids’ suitcases that will stand up to everything travel throws at them, we put 24 best-selling options to the test in our lab. Testers did everything from packing the bags to the brim and wheeling them through an obstacle course to pushing them off a ladder and hitting them with a baseball bat. To select our top picks, we considered capacity, maneuverability, value, organizing features, size, style, and durability. Our list includes something for every need at a range of prices. 

Our Favorites

Best Luggage for Little Kids: Rockland Jr. My First Hardside Spinner Luggage

Why We Like It

This option is our top pick for younger travelers because it’s both cute and practical. Our testers loved the adorable designs made with little kids in mind (there are several to choose from, including an owl and monkey), calling it “cartoony without being off-putting.” The adjustable height handle and 360-degree spinner wheels make it easy for kids to maneuver. It performed well on all surfaces in our lab.

The rubber zipper pulls are easily gripped by little hands, and the zippers are of relatively high quality, our testers noted. The 19-inch roller board is made from polycarbonate, making it lightweight and durable with a hard shell. Testers were able to fit eight outfits, one pair of shoes, one doll, and one stuffed animal in the bag in total. That makes it ideal for weeklong trips or vacations where you’ll have access to laundry. It’s priced just over $60, so you won’t mind passing this suitcase on to someone else when your kid grows out of it. 

But Take Note

Longer trips may require a larger-capacity bag. We also wish it had an exterior pocket to provide easy access to a few small items. 

The Details:

• Dimensions: Outside 17.5 x 12 x 11 inches; inside 15 x 13 x 5 inches 
• Capacity: 34 liters
• Weight: 4 pounds 
• Wheels: Four spinner
• Type: Hardside luggage 

Best Luggage for Big Kids: State Bags Logan Suitcase

Why We Like It

This thoughtful bag is on the pricer side, but we believe it’s a worthy investment. What impressed us most during testing was its many practical compartments, which make organizing your belongings a snap. There are two main interior compartments, one with an elastic strap for condensing cargo and the other with a zippered flap closure and mesh pocket. The front pocket features multiple smaller slots to keep items accessible and organized, while two side straps to hold a water bottle or jacket. 

Fully packed, the suitcase fit 18 outfits for 6- to 8-year-olds, including shoes, a raincoat, three small stuffed animals, a few toys and books, a tablet, and some snacks. Testers found that it maneuvers “super easy on hard floors and very easy on shag carpet,” if a little harder on grass. The telescoping handle can be used at two different heights, which is great if a grown-up needs to take over pulling. A side handle makes it convenient for lifting into overhead bins. The Logan is an environmentally sound pick since it’s made from 90 percent recycled materials.

But Take Note

At over $200, this is definitely more of a splurge. State Bags is also known for featuring fun seasonal prints that change regularly, so if you see a design you like, you’ll want to snag it. 

The Details:

• Dimensions: Outside 18.7 x 13.4 x 9.45 inches; inside 18.5 x 12.6 inches 
• Capacity: 29 liters
• Weight: 6.44 pounds 
• Wheels: Four spinner 
• Type: Softside suitcase 

Best Budget: Crckt Kids’ Softside Carry On Suitcase

Why We Like It

At around $45, this suitcase is a great deal, especially given its capacity and impressive quality. The large inner compartment and mesh pocket fit 10 outfits, a jacket, shoes, a doll, a mini football, and a stuffed animal. The five exterior pockets are great for stowing toys and other essentials kids want easy access to while traveling. “For its size, it really has a high capacity for a child’s belongings,” our tester noted. 

The case held up well to drop and bat tests, proving it to be quite durable for a softside suitcase. Even though it only has two wheels, it performed well over all surfaces in our lab test. This soft-sided kids’ suitcase is available in an array of whimsical pattern options, from dinos and sharks to unicorns and donuts, and comes with a matching plush toy keyring.

But Take Note

Our tester noted that the “materials are pretty good, but nothing exceptional,” with zippers that can stick around the edges. The two single-direction wheels are less convenient than the four spinner wheels on other picks on our list. 

The Details:

• Dimensions: Outside 19 x 11.5 x 6.75 inches; inside 18 x 11 x 6.5 inches 
• Capacity: 36 liter
• Weight: 4.85 pounds 
• Wheels: Two inline
• Type: Softside suitcase 

Best Organization: Stephen Joseph 18-Inch Classic Rolling Luggage

Why We Like It

We love this suitcase’s plethora of useful pockets, including an inner mesh pocket, an outer front pocket, and two outer side pockets. The side pockets are perfect for more compact items you might need to grab quickly, like a small toy or stuffed animal, a water bottle, an extra set of clothes, a hat, or a pair of glasses/sunglasses. The front exterior pocket is just the right size for a tablet or book. This made it our top pick when it comes to a suitcase that makes organizing a breeze. 

This popular bag has over a dozen print designs for kids to choose from, including the unicorn version we tested in the lab. At under 3 pounds, this one is also very lightweight, so even if it’s packed full of stuff, it shouldn’t feel overly heavy. It’s also one of the more budget-friendly kids’ luggage options on our list.

But Take Note

Our tester said the materials felt cheap, noting that the bag could’ve been more durable. In our tests, the bag held nine outfits (sizes 6-8) and a few toys, making it best for shorter trips. Further, it doesn’t have spinner wheels, so you may find it’s prone to tipping while being pulled. 

The Details:

• Dimensions: Outside 18 x 12.5 x 6.5 inches; inside 15.5 x 11 x 6 inches
• Capacity: Not listed
• Weight: 2.5 pounds 
• Wheels: Two inline
• Type: Softside suitcase

Best Kids’ Luggage Set: Travelers Club Five-Piece Kids’ Luggage Set

Why We Like It

This five-piece set packs major value with tons of inclusions into a budget price. You get an 18-inch hardside carry-on, a 15-inch backpack, a 10-inch lunch bag, a neck pillow, and a luggage tag, all in matching prints. The suitcase has two main compartments, with luggage straps on one side and a zipper enclosure on the other with an interior mesh pocket. In our test, we were able to pack 13 outfits and a pair of shoes. Like most hardside luggage, it lacks outer pockets, but the included backpack takes care of that problem. 

Our testers especially loved its maneuverability. “It has two sets of spinner wheels that are incredibly effective and smooth,” reported our tester. “You can barely tell when it’s on the grass.” The handle has two height positions, while the top carry handle expands to fit hands of all sizes. One tester noted it fits easily in an overhead compartment, too. The high quality means we can see this set being handed down to a younger sibling or relative once your child outgrows it, making it an even better value. 

But Take Note

When testing this for durability by hitting it with a bat, one hard thunk did manage to scuff the shiny hard material, though a dent popped back into shape quite quickly. 

The Details:

• Dimensions: Suitcase outside 18 x 12 x 9 inches, inside 15.5 x 12 x 4 inches. Backpack 15 x 10.2 x 5 inches
• Capacity: Not listed
• Weight: Suitcase 6.5 pounds. Backpack 1 pound 
• Wheels: Four inline 
• Type: Hardside carry-on suitcase, 15-inch backpack, 10-inch lunch bag, neck pillow, luggage tag 

Best Hardside: Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Hard-Sided Luggage

Why We Like It

Hardside suitcases tend to be more durable, which can be a big advantage where kids are involved. This suitcase is available in three different sizes: We tested the small and large, and since then the brand has released an extra large. The cases are also customizable with a monogram, making it easily identifiable, and a fun gift, too. Several print designs and solid colors are available, though each is listed as a separate product. 

Our testers found both sizes to have a great capacity, especially with the accordion expansion. The expanded small carry-on fit 15 outfits, shoes, a stuffed animal, two books, three snacks, and a set of colored pencils, so it would work great for a two-week trip. The expanded large suitcase fit 23 outfits, a jacket, shoes, a doll, an action figure, and two stuffed animals, making it great for three weeks or potentially more. The cases also stand up well. After the endurance and impact tests, there wasn’t “a single mark on the luggage,” our tester noted. Even the wheels were “sturdy and remained intact despite direct hits with a bat.” The wheels also roll smoothly, and the adjustable handle can be positioned at two heights. 

But Take Note

We wish these had some internal pockets for more organization. With prices ranging from $150 to $220, these are relatively expensive, though they often go on sale. If you have them personalized, they are not eligible for return. 

The Details:

• Dimensions: Small: outside 19 x 13 x 8.5 inches; inside 16 x 12 x 7.5 inches. Large: outside 25 x 15.5 x 10.5 inches; inside 22 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches. Extra large: outside 30 x 20 x 11 inches; inside 27 x 19.5 x 10.5 inches
• Capacity: Small 20 liters. Large 48 liters.
• Weight: Small 5 pounds. Large 8.5 pounds. Extra large 9.5 pounds
• Wheels: Four spinner 
• Type: Hardside suitcase

Best Carry-On: Béis The Mini Roller

Why We Like It

While we didn’t get the chance to test this suitcase in our lab, we still chose it as the best carry-on because of its fabulous features and great reviews. This smaller suitcase is made with little ones in mind; its squarish shape feels just right for toddlers. We like how cute this looks, but we also appreciate features like the waterproof zipper, 360-degree wheels, and the fact that it can match adult luggage sold by Beis. In fact, it’s small enough to count as a personal item. 

For a small suitcase, it’s surprisingly organized with decent capacity. One side of the interior has compression straps, while the other has a flap to keep contents contained and two zipper pouches for smaller items. The exterior features a decent-sized pocket with a padded technology sleeve—a unique find among hardside luggage. A retractable carry strap holds bags securely on top, while the extendable, height-adjustable handlebar is cushioned. It comes with a laundry bag and a TSA-approved lock. 

But Take Note

At almost $200, this is definitely a splurge. And it’s smaller than other options, meaning it would work for weekend trips or to replace your child’s backpack as their personal item, with a larger carry-on or checked suitcase needed for longer jaunts. 

The Details:

• Dimensions: 17 x 16.5 x 9 inches 
• Capacity: 41 liters
• Weight: 7 pounds 
• Wheels: Four spinner 
• Type: Hardside suitcase 

Best Rolling Backpack: J World New York Sunrise Rolling Backpack

Why We Like It

In our test to crown the best kids’ backpacks, this was our favorite rolling backpack. We love that it gives kids the option to wear it as a regular backpack or pull it as a wheeled bag. A simple push of a button allows kids to easily convert it from a normal backpack to a wheeling one. We found kids as young as 3 years old could handle it. The bag has a decent capacity, with a main compartment that should hold a few sets of clothes, a pair of shoes, and a toy. 

The exterior pocket of this one makes it easy to be organized, with card slots, multiple pockets, and a key clip. There’s a second smaller pocket on the front and two side pockets created to fit water bottles, umbrellas, or snacks. The interior features a padded technology sleeve. The material is water-resistant and durable and the rubber bottom also makes it feel more likely to stand up to wear and tear. 

But Take Note

We found that when wearing this as a regular backpack, the wheels made it feel heavy. Also, note that this is smaller than most luggage for kids, so it’s not going to fit as much stuff. 

The Details:

• Dimensions: 18 x 13 x 9 inches 
• Capacity: 34.5 liters
• Weight: 4.24 pounds 
• Wheels: Two inline 
• Type: Backpack 

Best Disney: American Tourister Disney Pixar Hardside Carry-On 

Why We Like It

Whether you’re headed to a Disney park or your kids just love Pixar, this hardside 20-inch carry-on suitcase is a great option. One tester gushed about the “quite sizable and deep” storage capacity. The suitcase has two internal compartments, one with a zipper and the other with elastic straps. It fit about 17 outfits, shoes, a stuffed animal, and a few books. It can also expand an additional 1.5 inches if needed. 

The suitcase moved quite well on the ground too, with 360-degree wheels that spin and glide easily. We like the beveled push button on the retractable pull handle, which makes it easy for kids to use. 

But Take Note

When it came time to lift this into an overhead compartment, it felt heavier than some of the other luggage we tested. 

The Details:

• Dimensions: Outside 19 x 14 x 9 inches
• Capacity: Not listed
• Weight: 7.28 pounds 
• Wheels: Four spinner 
• Type: Hardside suitcase 

Best Budget Set: Costway Two-Piece Kids Luggage Set

Why We Like It

This two-piece luggage set is an adorable pick for younger kids just beginning to carry their own bags. It includes an animal-shaped 16-inch trolley suitcase and a matching backpack. The case fit 13 outfits, a raincoat, and a pair of shoes, while the backpack held a doll and a medium-sized stuffed animal. There’s only one interior compartment for the suitcase, which should be fine for a younger child. 

The rolling suitcase has multi-directional wheels and telescoping handles, and the coordinating 12-inch backpack distributes weight for kids on the go. On the plus side, the backpack can be used for other things aside from just traveling, so it’s a bit more versatile. It can also sit on top of the suitcase for easy wheeling around if necessary. 

But Take Note

“This is adorable but only suitable for really young kids,” our tester noted. The suitcase was also easily dented during our testing. 

The Details:

• Dimensions: Suitcase outside 16.25 x 13 x 8 inches; inside 15.5 x 12 x 4 inches. Backpack 13 x 10 x 4.5 inches
• Capacity: 
• Weight: Suitcase 3.97 pounds; backpack 0.88 pounds 
• Wheels: Four inline 
• Type: Hardside suitcase and backpack 

Best for Tired Legs: Stokke JetKids BedBox

Why We Like It

This is like the Transformers of suitcases: a rolling bag your child can ride through the airport and then use as an in-flight bed or leg rest. There’s even a footrest so kids can rest their tired legs while riding on the case and being pulled by an adult. The mattress inside is pretty comfortable, with anti-skid lines and elastic bands to keep it in place. The lid has an easily accessible extra compartment that’s just right for a few toys and snacks.

“This little suitcase is so inviting,” our tester raved. They appreciated the bag’s “maneuverable, high-quality wheels” and “sturdy” construction, adding that it also offers some great organizational features. The front two wheels swivel 360 degrees, while the back two are inline. Our tester also said the themed stickers help make the design more kid-friendly: “Stokke figured out the secret of turning the Scandinavian style adults are drawn to into something a child will feel like is theirs: stickers!”

But Take Note

This was one of the most expensive options we assessed, and our tester found it awkward at times. You have to pack it from the top, so getting something from the bottom is challenging. The included travel mattress takes up about a third of the capacity, so it was more of a backpack alternative than a main suitcase. Plus, it felt heavy when carried as a shoulder bag. 

The Details:

• Dimensions: Outside 18 x 15.5 x 7.5 inches; inside: main compartment 17 x 10.5 x 6.5 inches, lid compartment 11 x 4 x 3 inches 
• Capacity: 
• Weight: 6.6 pounds 
• Wheels: Two spinner, two inline 
• Type: Hardside ride-on suitcase 

Our Testing and Review Process 

To find the best kids’ luggage, we put 24 top-rated items to the test in our lab. Parents and staff members performed a variety of tests on the luggage, including packing them up as if they were heading off on a real trip, pulling the bag around on different surfaces, and dropping the bags to see how well they held up. Here are the factors we used to determine which bags stood above the rest: 

• Capacity: Testers weighed and measured each bag to assess how easy it would be for kids to carry or push them around and if the bags would be suitable for carry-on purposes. Testers followed a set packing list and noted how much the bags held and how easy or hard it was to get everything inside. 
• Design: We paid attention to design details and extras like tech sleeves and built-in chargers. We also looked at organizational features, counting storage pockets and assessing their capacity. We also gauged whether kids would be interested in the overall design and look of the luggage. 
• Accessibility: Testers paid close attention to things like handles, zippers, and straps, noting whether they seemed easy enough for a small child to use on their own. 
• Maneuverability: Testers rolled the luggage around, testing it on different surfaces to see how well it navigated them. They also took the cases through an obstacle course, both rolled and carried, to see how well they maneuvered and how comfortable the handles and straps were. 
• Durability: In one test, fully packed luggage items were pushed off the top of a ladder, and then repeatedly hit with a baseball bat. We inspected the cases to see how well they held up, noting any marks on the exterior and whether everything inside stayed put. 

Our Experts

In addition to testing, we spoke to an expert to get insights into the qualities and features to look out for in kids’ luggage. 

Factors to Consider When Buying Luggage for Kids

You’ll want a suitcase that meets your and your child’s needs and preferences. It should also be able to withstand some rough handling. Here are some things to consider when shopping: 

• Size: Kids’ luggage should be appropriately sized to their bodies, with handles matched to their height. If you plan to use the bag as a carry-on for plane travel, pick a piece that meets carry-on size restrictions and fits in an overhead compartment. The average airline’s carry-on size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including handle and wheels, but this varies by airline, so be sure to check ahead. You’ll also want to ensure the capacity of the case matches the length of the trips your family typically takes.
• Organization and Design: You want luggage that matches your child’s age and personality, while also meeting their functional needs. Consider things like exterior zippers or mesh pockets for organization and access. 
• Ease of Use: Kids should be able to use and maneuver their own bags as easily as possible. Features like zipper pulls and 360-degree wheels can help substantially. Handles that adjust from child to adult height are also helpful. If your child will be responsible for occasionally carrying their bag, look for cushioned handles and lightweight materials.
• Durability: If you’re choosing a budget-priced piece of luggage with a kid-friendly design, you may not care if it lasts for several vacation seasons. If you’re splurging on high-quality luggage in a style you expect to grow with your kids, you’ll want something that can withstand years of wear and tear. 

How Heavy Should Kids’ Luggage Be? 

If your child is carrying their own luggage (not rolling it), it should not weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of their body weight. Even if they’ll be using it on wheels, look for lightweight luggage made from aluminum, fabric, or plastic so the bag itself adds as little extra weight as possible. Luggage with wheels is best for children who will be carrying their own luggage through airports or train stations. Casares says giving kids the responsibility of carrying something “makes them feel way more excited about the journey and feel more ownership over the trip.” 

At What Age Can Children Use Their Own Luggage? 

Even toddlers can be responsible for their own luggage. “At the age of about 3 to 4 years old, kids can be expected to carry a few of their own things when they travel,” explains Casares. “But the most important thing is starting them out with a little bit of responsibility versus having them carry a substantial amount of luggage.” Begin with a backpack or small wheeled case that doesn’t feel too overwhelming. 

Are Kids Allowed to Bring a Carry-On and a Personal Item onto a Plane?

If your kids have their own seat on the plane, they should be able to have their own carry-on luggage and a personal item just like you. This will vary depending on your airline, though, since some airlines charge a fee for carry-on luggage. If you are traveling with a lap infant (a child ages 2 or under), their allowed baggage depends on the airline. Always check with your airline regarding baggage policies. 

Who We Are

Jessica Booth is a freelance writer who covers parenting, shopping, wellness, entertainment, and wedding content. She has been freelance writing since 2017 and before that, worked as an editor at an online publication for seven years. She has written for sites such as Brides, People, Insider, Bustle, Romper, Refinery 29, Cosmopolitan, Delish, The Daily Beast, Reviewed, She Knows, Scary Mommy, The Knot, and What to Expect. She also has two young daughters and has gone through more than a few trips with them.