Purchasing new luggage can get expense and we’re usually able to borrow luggage from a friends. If you don’t travel often, I’d avoid forking over the couple hundred dollars if you can .
If you’re traveling with all your friends or you don’t have any other options, I’ve got you covered. I researched the highest rated but lowest cost luggage and here’s what I found:
After thorough research, the best value checked luggage is this Travelpro Maxlite 25-Inch. At the time of writing this, it’s on sale for $114.50. If it’s not on sale, you may want to consider this Mobile Solution Large Expandable Spinner.
If you’re concerned about safety and durability, I’d recommend the The Large. It’s about $100 more, but you’re getting TSA-approved locks, a hard case, and some other features which are pretty cool.
Best Lightweight Checked Luggage
Weight/Size: Airlines have weight limits of 50 lbs. If your bag is overweight it will cost $100-200 in fees. Of the 3 bags I’ve recommended, the Travelpro Maxlite 25-Inch comes in the lightest. If you’ve got a scale at home do a quick check before leaving to make sure you’re packed bag is under 50 lbs.
| Weight (unpacked) | Size (inches) | |
| Travelpro Maxlite 25-Inch | 7.28 lbs | 11.5 x 18.5 x 27″ |
| Mobile Solution Large Expandable Spinner | 8.8 lbs | 11.5 x 18 x 29″ |
| The Large | 11.6 lbs | 12.5 x 20.5 x 29″ |
Casing Materials: While softer materials are obviously less suitable for the traumatic loading/offloading process on airplanes, they are far more flexible. Too many times I’ve overpacked my bags and this is where the softer luggage shines. The Travelpro Maxlite 25-Inch expands up to 2 inches to maximize packing capacity.
| Travelpro Maxlite 25-Inch | Polyester fabric with DuraGuard® coating resists water and stains |
| Mobile Solution Large Expandable Spinner | Nylon Twill fabric Water-resistant coating |
| The Large | Polycarbonate hard shell |
Features:
| Wheels | Expansion | Handle | Luggage Tag | Zipper | Other Features | |
| Travelpro Maxlite 25-Inch | Four 360° single-wheel spinners | 2 inches | Patented Contour Grip | – | Ergonomic high-tensile strength zipper | Strong bottom wheel tray |
| Mobile Solution Large Expandable Spinner | Four 360° dual-wheel spinners | 0.75 inches | Standard | Retractable | Front zippered pockets | Smart Fix Buckles |
| The Large | Four 360° dual-wheel spinners | None | Standard | Black leather | TSA-approved combination lock | Hidden laundry bag |
Warranty
Travelpro Maxlite 25-Inch: Travelpro offers a warranty program linked here. all you need to do is sign up. The lifetime limited warranty covers defects on major components such as wheels, zippers, extension handles and carry handles but does not cover damage caused from regular use. Shipping cost will be refunded for valid claims.
They also reimburse shipping costs and free repairs for damage caused by airlines for the first year.
Purchase also includes a 100 day free trial. If you’re unsatisfied, they will even pay for return shipping. The only drawback is this is for products purchased directly through their website.
Mobile Solution Large Expandable Spinner: Their warranty covers manufacturing defects in any materials or workmanship. No coverage is provided for misuse or damaging of products on your own. For more information on this warranty, click here.
The Large: this is by far the best warranty as it covers any damage that disrupts functionality for life. The battery is the only thing you’ll need to worry about as it is only covered by a 2-year warranty. Click here for more info. You will not be held responsible for shipping costs if you need to have your product repaired and it is a valid claim.
Conclusion
I really like the light-weight aspect of the Travelpro Maxlite along with it’s expandability features. The zippers have a great feel and it’s just a really great budget option. While the wheels are only single-wheel spinners, they have an extremely sturdy bottom tray that gives the bag a sturdy feel.
I’d also consider grabbing a daypack if you’re using this bag as it can be a great carry-on option. Check out this article I wrote about the best affordable daypack.