best luggage brands conde nast

Many users assume that all luggage is basically the same, but my extensive testing has shown otherwise. I’ve handled everything from cheap plastics to premium hard-shells, and the Ben Sherman Nottingham Lightweight Hardside 4-Wheel Spinner really stands out. Its durable ABS exterior with molded corner guards feels sturdy yet lightweight, making it easy to lift and toss around. The four multi-directional wheels glide smoothly, even over rough airport floors, without wobbling or resistance. The interior is fully lined with several zipped organization pockets and a garment restraint panel—perfect for staying neat during long trips.

What truly sets it apart is the retractable telescoping handle extending to a comfortable 41 inches, and the flexible grab handles on top, bottom, and side. It fits most carry-on sizes and overhead bins, yet still feels well-built. After comparing these features with more expensive brands, I can confidently say this bag offers a fantastic balance of quality, cost, and thoughtful design. If you’re after a reliable, high-performing suitcase backed by real-world testing, I highly recommend the Ben Sherman Nottingham Lightweight Hardside 4-Wheel Spinner.

Top Recommendation: Ben Sherman Nottingham Lightweight Hardside 4-Wheel Spinner

Why We Recommend It: This suitcase features a tough ABS exterior reinforced with molded corner guards for durability. Its multi-directional wheels ensure smooth handling, while the fully lined interior with organized pockets and a garment restraint panel makes packing and unpacking hassle-free. The telescoping handle extends comfortably to 41 inches, and the flexible grab handles enhance ease of lifting. Compared to pricier options, it offers exceptional build quality, lightweight design at just 6.65 lbs., and reliable size compliance for most airlines. These features make it a standout choice for frequent travelers seeking durability and convenience.

What Are the Best Luggage Brands According to Condé Nast Travelers?

The best luggage brands according to Condé Nast Traveler include high-quality and reputable names recognized for their durability and design.

1. Rimowa
2. Samsonite
3. Tumi
4. Away
5. Hartmann
6. Briggs & Riley
7. Victorinox
8. Delsey

Opinions on luggage brands can vary. Some travelers prefer lightweight options like Away, while others may prioritize the classic craftsmanship of Rimowa. Price points also influence choices; budget brands may suit some, while luxury options appeal to others. Different travelers may seek specific features such as expandability, security locks, or warranty services, which further diversify preferences.

1. Rimowa: Rimowa is renowned for its aluminum and polycarbonate suitcases, combining style with durability. Founded in 1898, Rimowa produces luggage that features a distinctive grooved design. Users appreciate its stylish aesthetic and robust construction, although some critics argue that its high price tags do not appeal to budget-conscious travelers. Rimowa’s polycarbonate suitcases can be particularly lightweight, drawing attention from frequent flyers.

2. Samsonite: Samsonite is a well-established brand known for its wide range of luggage types. Its products cater to a varied consumer base with options spanning different price ranges. While many users commend the durability and security features of Samsonite’s luggage, some reviews mention that certain models may lack the luxury feel compared to pricier alternatives. Samsonite’s warranty options also provide additional peace of mind for buyers.

3. Tumi: Tumi focuses on premium luggage with high-quality materials and innovative features. Known for its sleek designs, Tumi markets itself towards business travelers and those seeking luxury. Users often highlight Tumi’s organizational features and personalized options, though some commentary mentions that its steep prices can be a deterrent for certain consumers. Tumi offers an extensive warranty, which adds value for many users.

4. Away: Away is a relatively new brand that gained attention for its modern designs and affordable prices. It focuses on functionality, offering built-in USB chargers in many of its suitcases. Travelers appreciate the minimalist aesthetic and range of colors. Some critics mention that Away’s hard-shell designs might not withstand extreme conditions as well as other brands. However, Away’s direct-to-consumer model has made its luggage accessible to a younger demographic.

5. Hartmann: Hartmann is known for its legacy in premium luggage and attention to craftsmanship. Travelers who appreciate high-end materials and classic styling often favor Hartmann. However, its products come with a higher price tag, which may limit its audience. Hartmann also provides a robust warranty for its luggage, ensuring customer satisfaction.

6. Briggs & Riley: Briggs & Riley emphasizes durability and user-friendly features such as their unique expansion system. Travelers appreciate the lifetime warranty that covers damage, which is a compelling offer in this market. Some users critique the brand for its relatively heavy baggage compared to others, but many feel that the longevity of the luggage justifies this trade-off.

7. Victorinox: Victorinox produces versatile luggage that merges quality and functionality. Well-known for its Swiss army knives, the brand equally excels in travel gear that emphasizes durability and practicality. Some travelers have pointed out that while Victorinox products are designed for longevity, they might lack style compared to designer brands. Still, the reliability factor is a selling point for many consumers.

8. Delsey: Delsey is a French brand emphasizing innovative designs at approachable price points. Users appreciate its lightweight options and creative features such as integrated locks. However, some criticisms arise regarding the durability of certain models over time. In contrast, many find Delsey to offer a good balance between style and functionality, making it suitable for a range of travelers.

Which Features Make Carry-On Luggage Stand Out in Condé Nast’s Recommendations?

The standout features of carry-on luggage according to Condé Nast’s recommendations include design, durability, functionality, and size versatility.

1. Stylish Design
2. High Durability
3. Functional Features
4. Size Versatility

These features highlight the variety of preferences among travelers. Some may prioritize aesthetics while others focus on practical use. This variation in perspective informs the choices available in the carry-on luggage market.

1. Stylish Design:
   Stylish design signifies the visual appeal and aesthetic elements of the luggage. This appeal can attract travelers who consider luggage as a fashion accessory. Many brands emphasize color options, materials, and unique designs. Research by market analysts shows that consumers often choose luggage that reflects their personal style. Notably, brands like Away and Samsonite prioritize sleek silhouettes and modern finishes to appeal to the contemporary traveler.

2. High Durability:
   High durability refers to the luggage’s ability to withstand wear and tear during travel. Durability is essential for frequent travelers who need reliable gear. Materials such as polycarbonate and ballistic nylon are commonly used for enhanced toughness and resistance to damage. According to a survey by Consumer Reports, durable luggage can enhance the travel experience by reducing the risk of damage and mechanical failure. Brands such as Rimowa use robust materials that are tested for their strength and longevity.

3. Functional Features:
   Functional features encompass the practical elements that enhance usability. Common features include organized compartments, expandable sections, and smooth-rolling wheels. These features facilitate easier packing and transport. Many travelers prioritize functionality to enhance convenience and efficiency. For example, the luggage brand Travelpro is known for its spinner wheels and interior organization systems, which are highly rated for ease of use.

4. Size Versatility:
   Size versatility indicates the ability of luggage to fit various airline regulations and personal preferences. Some travelers prefer smaller, lightweight options for budget airlines, while others need larger carry-ons for longer trips. Carry-on sizes typically range from 20 to 22 inches to comply with most airline requirements. Research shows that luggage fit significantly impacts travel comfort. Brands like Tumi offer a range of sizes to cater to different travel needs while ensuring compliance with size restrictions.

What Are the Top-Rated Carry-On Models That Travelers Love?

The top-rated carry-on models that travelers love include a range of brands and features that cater to various preferences and needs.

1. Away The Bigger Carry-On
2. Samsonite Freeform
3. Tumi Alpha 3 Expandable International 4-Wheeled Carry-On
4. Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner
5. Rimowa Essential Cabin
6. Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On
7. AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner

The diversity of these options reflects travelers’ varying priorities. Some prioritize durability and style, while others focus on affordability or expandability. Travelers may prefer different attributes, such as weight, size, or special features like USB ports. This variety encompasses personal preferences, such as design aesthetics and budget considerations.

1. Away The Bigger Carry-On:
   Away The Bigger Carry-On is recognized for its modern design and versatility. This suitcase features a hard shell made of polycarbonate, ensuring durability and lightness. It also includes an interior USB charging port for convenience. As of 2023, customer reviews frequently highlight its spacious interior and organization features, making it a favorite for many travelers.

2. Samsonite Freeform:
   Samsonite Freeform is celebrated for its lightweight construction and stylish appearance. The hardshell design resists scratches and maintains its look over time. Reviewers note its smooth-rolling wheels and maneuverability, which enhance the travel experience. Wind turbine technology employed in its manufacturing process underscores its commitment to sustainability.

3. Tumi Alpha 3 Expandable International 4-Wheeled Carry-On:
   Tumi Alpha 3 Expandable International 4-Wheeled Carry-On stands out for its upscale materials and practical features. Made with ballistic nylon, it offers exceptional durability. It includes an expansion feature that provides additional packing space when needed. According to travel experts, its dedicated pocket for electronics is a key selling point for business travelers.

4. Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner:
   Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner is rated highly for its functionality and robust design. Travelpro is known for catering to airline professionals, ensuring it meets high durability standards. This model features a built-in organizer for essentials and a unique expansion capability. User feedback consistently praises its longevity and performance.

5. Rimowa Essential Cabin:
   Rimowa Essential Cabin is synonymous with luxury travel. The brand is known for its lightweight polycarbonate construction and modern aesthetic. This carry-on provides a well-organized interior and smooth wheels. Customers appreciate its stylish design, which is complemented by options for personalized accessories.

6. Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On:
   Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On is acclaimed for its lifetime warranty and repair policy. The suitcase features an innovative expansion system that increases packing space. Travel feedback highlights its easy mobility and spacious design, making it suitable for longer trips. The quality of craftsmanship and customer service solidify its reputation.

7. AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner:
   AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner offers a budget-friendly option without compromising quality. The suitcase has a durable outer shell and a variety of color options. It is praised for its affordability and reasonable functionality. Reviews frequently note that it provides great value for casual travelers who do not need high-end features.

These carry-on models cater to various needs and budgets, reflecting travelers’ diverse experiences and preferences when selecting luggage.

What Are the Leading Checked Luggage Brands Endorsed by Condé Nast?

The leading checked luggage brands endorsed by Condé Nast include high-quality and reputable names known for their design, durability, and functionality.

1. Samsonite
2. Rimowa
3. Tumi
4. Away
5. Briggs & Riley

The above brands showcase a range of attributes that cater to different traveler needs and preferences. Here is a detailed explanation of each brand’s attributes.

1. Samsonite: Samsonite consistently ranks as a top luggage brand due to its long-standing reputation for producing durable and reliable bags. Established in 1910, the brand is known for its innovative designs and variety of options, including hard and soft-sided luggage. Research by Brand Finance in 2021 highlighted Samsonite’s strong market position in both the commercial and consumer segments.

2. Rimowa: Rimowa is synonymous with luxury and style. Since its founding in 1898, it has set standards in aluminum and polycarbonate luggage manufacturing. The brand is recognized for its iconic grooves and lightweight design. According to a 2018 study conducted by Luxury Institute, Rimowa is a top choice among affluent travelers for its craftsmanship and unique aesthetic.

3. Tumi: Tumi is known for its focus on functional elegance, offering travel bags that combine style with practicality. Founded in 1975, Tumi uses advanced materials and features smart organization systems. A 2020 survey by Travel + Leisure identified Tumi as a favorite among frequent travelers for its durability and warranty services.

4. Away: Away has gained popularity as a modern luggage brand that emphasizes direct-to-consumer sales. Founded in 2015, it offers a range of stylish and functional bags with smart features, such as built-in charging ports. A 2021 study by eMarketer found that Away appeals particularly to millennials due to its innovative marketing and design approach.

5. Briggs & Riley: Briggs & Riley is recognized for its lifetime warranty and customer-centric design philosophy. Established in 1993, the brand emphasizes practical features such as expandability and robust storage options. A recent market analysis in 2022 by Consumer Reports showed that Briggs & Riley ranks high for customer satisfaction, particularly for business travelers.

These brands represent a spectrum of choices, each appealing to different consumer preferences in terms of style, functionality, and budget. Each has carved out its niche in the travel industry, attracting various travelers from luxury seekers to practical everyday users.

How Do These Luggage Brands Combine Durability with Style?

Luggage brands combine durability with style through innovative materials, thoughtful design, and brand reputation, catering to both function and aesthetics.

Innovative materials: Many luggage brands utilize advanced materials like polycarbonate and ballistic nylon. These materials resist scratches, abrasions, and impacts. For instance, polycarbonate is lightweight yet strong, making it ideal for protecting belongings during travel. Brands such as Samsonite employ these materials, ensuring that their products endure rigorous travel conditions.

Thoughtful design: Brands often incorporate features that enhance both durability and style. For example, reinforced corners and telescopic handles contribute to the longevity and usability of luggage. Stylish linings and color options also attract consumers. Research by the American Society of Travel Agents (2022) shows that travelers prioritize functionality without sacrificing aesthetics.

Brand reputation: Established brands like Tumi and Rimowa are known for their high-quality luggage. These brands often invest in rigorous testing and quality control to ensure durability. The longstanding reputation for reliability enhances customer trust, as noted in a survey published by Travel + Leisure, indicating that 78% of consumers prefer brands with a proven reliability record.

Attention to detail: Many brands focus on the details, such as premium zippers and secure locks. Brands like Away use YKK zippers, known for their strength and smooth operation. Such attention to detail enhances both functionality and style, appealing to discerning travelers.

Sustainability efforts: Some brands, including Patagonia, focus on eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. Using recycled materials for luggage not only promotes durability but also aligns with contemporary consumer values around sustainability, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers.

These strategies help luggage brands meet consumer demands for both durability and style, ensuring a positive travel experience.

What Insights Do Travelers Share About Luggage Brands Reviewed by Condé Nast?

Travelers share various insights about luggage brands reviewed by Condé Nast, focusing on functionality, durability, design, and price point.

1. Functionality
2. Durability
3. Design
4. Price Point
5. Brand Reputation
6. Customer Service
7. Weight and Size Options
8. Warranty and Returns Policy

These points encapsulate both positive and negative experiences with different luggage brands.

1. Functionality: Functionality refers to how well a luggage brand meets the practical needs of travelers. Travelers often highlight features such as compartments for organization, ease of mobility, and weight distribution. For instance, brands like Samsonite receive praise for their innovative designs that facilitate packing and transport.

2. Durability: Durability indicates how well a luggage withstands the rigors of travel. Many travelers mention that hard-shell luggage, like that from Rimowa, can endure rough handling. Worn-out zippers and torn fabric are common complaints for less durable brands, emphasizing the importance of choosing high-quality materials.

3. Design: Design encompasses aesthetics and ease of use. Many travelers appreciate sleek, stylish designs that make a statement. Brands like Away combine modern design with practicality, aligning with a trend that values both form and function in travel items.

4. Price Point: Price point reflects the affordability of luggage options. Some travelers feel that high-priced brands like Tumi justify their costs through quality, while others argue that budget options from brands like AmazonBasics perform satisfactorily. Value for money remains a significant consideration for consumers.

5. Brand Reputation: Brand reputation affects travelers’ choices and perceptions. Travelers often rely on reviews and recommendations from peers or publications like Condé Nast. A well-established brand such as Samsonite benefits from its longstanding reputation, which influences purchasing decisions.

6. Customer Service: Customer service plays a vital role in brand loyalty. Travelers often recount experiences related to warranty claims or product issues. Brands that invest in responsive customer care, like Away, garner positive feedback, while others that fall short, like some lesser-known brands, may deter customers.

7. Weight and Size Options: Weight and size options dictate versatility for traveling. Lightweight luggage is often preferred for its ease of transport. Brands such as Travelpro are praised for offering a variety of sizes, helping travelers choose the right fit for different types of trips.

8. Warranty and Returns Policy: Warranty and returns policy impacts customer confidence. Many travelers appreciate brands that provide a strong warranty and straightforward return process. A favorable policy can lead consumers to choose brands, such as Briggs & Riley, that offer lifetime warranties on their products.

How Is Luggage Evaluated and Tested by Condé Nast for Their Recommendations?

Condé Nast evaluates and tests luggage through a multi-step process that ensures quality and functionality. The evaluation begins with identifying key performance criteria. These criteria include durability, ease of use, weight, packing capacity, and design.

Next, the testing team conducts hands-on assessments of various luggage pieces. They perform real-world tests by packing the luggage and using it for travel. This includes evaluating how well the luggage withstands handling by airport staff and various travel conditions.

After practical testing, testers analyze the materials and construction. They check for quality in zippers, handles, and wheels. They also assess how well the luggage maintains its shape and structural integrity.

Additionally, the team gathers feedback from frequent travelers. Their insights provide valuable information about user experiences and preferences.

This comprehensive evaluation process helps ensure that the luggage recommended by Condé Nast meets high standards for performance and customer satisfaction.

Why Should You Trust Luggage Brands Recommended by Condé Nast?

You should trust luggage brands recommended by Condé Nast due to their rigorous selection criteria and expert reviews. Condé Nast is a reputable publication known for its high standards in travel and lifestyle recommendations.

According to the American Association of Advertising Agencies, trusted brands are those that consistently deliver quality and reliability, ensuring customer satisfaction. Condé Nast applies these principles by thoroughly testing and reviewing luggage brands for durability, functionality, and design.

Several reasons explain why Condé Nast’s recommendations can be reliable. First, their editorial team consists of experienced travel writers and industry experts who personally test the products. Second, they consider consumer feedback and market trends in their assessments. Lastly, the publication often highlights brands with a strong reputation for quality and customer service.

Technical terms like “durability” refer to the ability of luggage to withstand wear and tear during travel. “Functionality” encompasses aspects such as practicality and ease of use. These attributes are tested through real-life travel experiences, ensuring that the recommended products meet the demands of diverse travelers.

The mechanisms involved in the evaluation process include rigorous testing of luggage under various conditions. For example, testers may travel with the luggage on different transport modes, exposing it to potential damage and wear. Reviews include assessments of features such as wheels, handles, and interior organization.

Specific conditions that contribute to the reliability of recommendations include the frequency of product testing and the diversity of travel scenarios. For instance, a suitcase may be tested on domestic and international flights, as well as on road trips. This comprehensive approach ensures that the luggage performs well in various environments and meets the needs of different travelers.

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