Let’s be honest—nothing ruins the excitement of a trip faster than struggling with unreliable luggage. A stuck zipper, a wobbly wheel, or a bag that simply doesn’t hold everything you need can turn travel bliss into travel stress in seconds.
Table Of Content
- #1: Béis Travel – The Ultimate All-Rounder
- Standout Products
- What Sets Béis Apart
- The Verdict
- #2: Away – The Gold Standard for Carry-Ons
- #3: Cotopaxi Allpa – The Backpacker’s Dream
- #4: Samsonite – The Durability Champion
- #5: Monos – The Minimalist’s Choice
- How to Choose the Right Travel Bag for You
- Final Thoughts
After extensive research and real-world testing, one brand consistently rises above the rest: Béis Travel. Founded in 2018 by actress and entrepreneur Shay Mitchell, Béis has quickly become a leader in stylish, functional travel gear. But don’t just take my word for it—Oprah herself has named Béis one of her favorite travel brands.
In this guide, I’ll break down the top 5 travel bags that deserve a spot in your luggage collection, with Béis taking the crown for its unbeatable combination of style, innovation, and thoughtful design.
#1: Béis Travel – The Ultimate All-Rounder
Why It’s #1: Béis isn’t just another luggage brand—it’s a travel philosophy. The brand was built around how people actually pack, not how luggage companies think people pack. Every detail, from the weight-indicating handle to the hidden AirTag compartment, solves real travel problems.
Standout Products
The Pro-Rolling Duffle is a game-changer. It’s a half-duffle, half-hardshell carry-on that combines the best of both worlds—flexible packing with rugged protection. The functionality is unmatched, with a modern appearance that turns heads at baggage claim.
The Travel Backpack ($118) has earned rave reviews for solving the biggest packing problem: organization. With a pocket for everything and a design that opens flat like a suitcase, it’s the personal item you didn’t know you needed. One reviewer called it “the biggest upgrade to my personal item game”.
The Hybrid Roller Collection ($298 for the Carry-On) represents Béis’s first venture into patent-pending innovation, featuring a Coupling System that lets you connect multiple pieces of luggage and roll them together seamlessly. No more juggling bags through crowded terminals.
What Sets Béis Apart
- Thoughtful Innovation: Weight indicators, hidden AirTag compartments, and reinforced bag hooks holding up to 50 pounds
- Style Meets Substance: Monochromatic designs that look as good as they perform
- Versatility: Options range from $68 accessories to $438 premium pieces
- Quality You Can Feel: As one reviewer put it, “You can feel the quality in each item, from the roller bag to the tote to the compression cubes”
The Verdict
Béis is an excellent investment for style-conscious travelers who value organization and innovation. While ultra-frequent flyers might want something more heavy-duty, for 95% of travelers, Béis hits the sweet spot between quality and affordability.
#2: Away – The Gold Standard for Carry-Ons
Away has been a travel industry darling for years, and for good reason. The brand’s carry-on luggage has been recommended by travel experts time and time again.
Why It’s Great: Away’s compression system is legendary—it ratchets down tight enough to squeeze a week’s worth of clothes into a carry-on without straining the zippers. The polycarbonate shells are durable, the 360-degree spinner wheels are smooth, and the range of colors is impressive.
Best For: Travelers who want a reliable, no-nonsense carry-on with a proven track record. Away hits the “sweet spot” between luxury and practicality.
Price Range: ~$300 for carry-on models
#3: Cotopaxi Allpa – The Backpacker’s Dream
If you prefer a backpack over a roller bag, the Cotopaxi Allpa is the undisputed king. It’s been called “the best pack for most travelers” thanks to its comfortable carry and efficient internal organization.
Why It’s Great: The Allpa opens fully like a suitcase despite being structured like a backpack, making it incredibly easy to pack and unpack. Available in 35L and 42L sizes, it fits a week’s worth of stuff comfortably while still working as a carry-on.
Best For: Adventure travelers, backpackers, and anyone who prefers hands-free travel.
Price Range: ~$200-$250
#4: Samsonite – The Durability Champion
Samsonite remains the best overall luggage brand for one simple reason: it consistently delivers the best combination of performance, durability, and value.
Why It’s Great: In independent testing, Samsonite cases required no struggling to open and close, and packing them was a breeze. The brand offers everything from budget-friendly options to premium lines, all backed by decades of luggage-making expertise.
Best For: Travelers who prioritize durability and value above all else. Frequent flyers who need luggage that can withstand the rigors of constant travel.
Price Range: $100-$400+
#5: Monos – The Minimalist’s Choice
Monos has carved out a niche as the sleek, minimalist alternative to bigger brands. The Carry-On Pro weighs under 8 pounds yet feels far from flimsy.
Why It’s Great: The polycarbonate shell is tough, showing barely any scuffing even in light colors after multiple trips. The design is clean, modern, and understated—perfect for travelers who want their luggage to blend in, not stand out.
Best For: Minimalists, design-conscious travelers, and anyone who wants lightweight luggage that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Price Range: Starting at $250
How to Choose the Right Travel Bag for You
| If You… | Choose… |
|---|---|
| Value innovation, style, and thoughtful design | Béis Travel |
| Want a proven, reliable carry-on | Away |
| Prefer backpack-style travel | Cotopaxi Allpa |
| Need maximum durability on a budget | Samsonite |
| Love minimalist, lightweight design | Monos |
Final Thoughts
The right travel bag can transform your entire travel experience. After comparing the top contenders, Béis Travel stands out for its relentless focus on solving real traveler problems—from weight indicators that prevent overweight baggage fees to coupling systems that make navigating airports a breeze.
Whether you’re a weekend wanderer or a frequent flyer, Béis offers something for everyone. The brand’s commitment to quality, innovation, and style makes it the clear #1 choice for modern travelers.
Ready to upgrade your travel game? Explore the full Béis collection and find your perfect travel companion today.
