Our definitive 2026 packing edit
From hard-shell suitcases that promise to last a lifetime to underseat cabin bags that obey all the luggage restriction rules, these are the travel items our editors really rate
Our favourite carry-on suitcases for your next getaway
Our editors have put each and every one of these carry-on cases to the test and selected the very best options to ensure you feel organised, smart, and even a little smug while travelling light
Carl Friedrik The Carry-on aluminium, chocolate
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Carl Friedrik The Carry-on X
Briggs & Riley Global expandable carry-on
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Check-in luggage our editors would buy again and again
As a group of seasoned travellers, we know the benefits of moving with speed, simplicity and organisation. So, when a piece of luggage impresses us, you can trust it’s one you’ll love
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Carl Friedrik The Check-in
Carl Friedrik Core The Large check-in
Smart tote bags for commuting and beyond
Whether you’re hopping on the tube or jetting off overseas, a tote bag is a life essential. The best totes have the capacity to fit all your must-haves: a laptop, a water bottle, toiletries, snacks, entertainment for kids, spare clothes… the list goes on
Stylish weekenders for your next staycation
Whether you're planning a quick road trip to the nearest beach or a much-needed couples getaway, trips like these call for a sturdy, stylish, and functional travel bag. Our editors put dozens of duffels and expandable totes to the test, and these are the very best
Horizn Studios SoFo Weekender L
Carl Friedrik compact weekender
Stubble & Co Gym duffel
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Horizn Studios Shibuya weekender M
MZ Wallace Nik duffel
Backpacks to take everywhere
A trusty backpack is an essential piece of kit and the ultimate travel chameleon. Use it as a cabin bag, take it hiking, travelling by train across Europe, or for a day exploring a new city. Here are our tried-and-tested favourites
Troubadour Apex backpack 4.0
Rachel Bloom The Smart Backpack
Cabin Zero Classic Cabin Backpack
Roka London Canfield rolltop backpack
Carl Friedrik Move traverse backpack
The roomiest underseat cabin bags for savvy packers
The best under-seat cabin bags will help you avoid unnecessary baggage fees. Every item on this list is surprisingly roomy and plays by the luggage restriction rules
Cabin Max Travel Bag
Lossga Backpack with USB charging port
Cabin Zero Classic Cabin Backpack
It Luggage Lustrous Luxe small holdall
Travel accessories worth the packing space
The best travel accessories can improve every trip. Having a go-to list of essential items can often improve the packing process and make life easier on holiday – see below for the items that we’ve learned we can’t live without.
Twelve South AirFly Pro Bluetooth audio transmitte/receiver
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Bagsmart hanging wash bag
