The Best Luggage Brands of 2026, According to Condé Nast Traveler Readers

Luggage can make or break a trip, and Condé Nast Traveler readers have strong opinions about which brands are worth taking along. This year, an affordable brand made with recycled materials took the top spot.

As part of its 39th annual Readers’ Choice Awards, Condé Nast Traveler has named its readers’ favorite luggage brands of 2026. The list ranks 20 brands, from longtime favorites to newer names, and the magazine says its readers value functional, durable luggage that can withstand years of wear and tear. Here’s what came out on top.

The Winner: Solo New York

Taking the No. 1 spot is Solo New York, which Condé Nast Traveler describes as an affordable brand with versatile, functional luggage that’s kind to the planet.

Sustainability is central to the brand, according to its website. It says it has repurposed discarded plastic bottles into recycled PET yarn for its bags, reaching its goal of 40 million bottles ahead of its 2024 target. It now aims for 100 million by 2030. (Source: Solo New York)

Solo New York’s suitcases, backpacks, and briefcases have a durable exterior and they also have some smart features like a push-button telescoping handle system, an interior travel checklist and compression straps that keep bulky items in place.

The brand’s two products highlighted by Condé Nast Traveler are the Urban Rolling Overnighter Case and the Re:Define backpack, priced at $173 and $83.

The Rest of the Top Five

Briggs & Riley came in second. The brand, founded in 1993, is known for its less bulky handles, which leave more room inside for clothes. It also has a sturdy expansion-compression system. Condé Nast Traveler’s editors and readers especially like the brand’s hard-shell and soft-shell suitcases from its Sympatico and Baseline collections.

Arlo Skye, a mainstay at the top of the magazine’s list for several years, came in third, credited for its style, spaciousness, and organization features.

Béis, founded in 2018 by actor and entrepreneur Shay Mitchell, landed in the fourth spot. The brand is known for its Weekender bag, which was recently redesigned to be roomier. Readers also like its built-in weight indicator, smooth wheels and ribbed exterior.

Rounding out the top five is Travelpro, praised for its flexible, roomy and affordable soft-sided bags.

Spots Six to Ten

The sixth to tenth spots went to Away, Tumi, Hartmann, Louis Vuitton, and Rimowa. Condé Nast Traveler says many editors often prefer Away after testing more than 150 suitcases for its annual Luggage Week. It also says Louis Vuitton is the readers' favorite designer luggage brand and highlights Rimowa’s lifetime guarantee and repair system.

Condé Nast Traveler’s rankings are based on readers’ votes, and the publication notes that many of the picks are also favorites of its editors. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your budget, the kind of trips you take, and whether you prefer hard or soft shells.