Inside: Proof That Stylish and Affordable Luggage *Does* Exist

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This might just be my Sagittarius moon talking, but there's nothing more exhilarating than booking a trip to a brand-new place. In fact, as I type this, I'm in the midst of planning not one but two European adventures for next year—thoughts and prayers are welcome! But let's be real here, traveling can be expensive as hell, even if you go out of your way to see the world on a tight budget. Paying for transportation, hotels, meals, drinks, excursions, outfits, toiletries, souvenirs, and literally everything in between can really add up if you're not on top of things from the get-go.

If you're anything like me—which, if you're reading this, I assume you are!—you'd rather spend your money on the fun stuff, rather than the accessories you're bringing along with you. And while having a top-notch, name-brand piece of luggage is a flex at the airport, it's really not necessary, trust me. There are plenty of low-cost options out there that (a) are super stylish, and (b) you don't need to dip into your savings account to afford. You're also in the right place to find them, because I scoured the internet to bring you, dear reader, a list of the very best affordable luggage on the market—from checked suitcases and carry-ons to duffel bags and more—all without compromising on quality. Here's a sneak peek...

And remember: Just because something is less expensive doesn't mean you're missing out on all of the bells and whistles that come with good travel bags (I pinky promise!). The proof is below, so let's shop, shall we?

28-Inch Hardside Spinner

Some days, I really can't believe that Amazon has it all—including its very own line of affordable luggage. This 28-inch hardside spinner is a popular option on the site, probably because it's quite the bargain. Reviewers love the textured outer design, which makes it less prone to scratching (which is especially good news for a travel chaos demon like myself). It also features three zippered interior pockets for smaller items, like medications or socks and underwear (chic!).

40L Travel Backpack

Backpacks are a necessary evil when it comes to travel. Rarely are they hot, but they're incredibly useful when trekking across cobblestoned streets or even through crowded airports. This one from Asenlin checks a ton of boxes for me—it's got plenty of organizational pockets, is super durable, and can hold way more than your average backpack. It's also pretty cute, so it's got my stamp of approval.

HYC00 Travel Duffel Bag

Incoming: A stunning and affordable duffel that'll have your wallet thanking you (I mean, do you see that price?!). This pink cutie is perfect for a quick weekend getaway, or to use as a personal item for a long-haul flight. It's available in 56(!) different colors, so you can be sure to find one to match our travel 'fit of choice. Who says style and durability have to cost an arm and a leg?

Mother Lode Large Checked Rolling Duffel

I'm not kidding when I say that this rolling duffel bag can hold a lot of sh*t. Pretty much every reviewer is astonished by just how much you can fit inside. It's also lightweight, easy to pack, and can go from a rolling suitcase to an over-the-shoulder bag in the blink of an eye—and who doesn't love that type of versatility?!

Hardside Carry-On Suitcase

If you're looking for a lightweight and affordable luggage option, you've officially found it. Made from durable polycarbonate, this 19-inch hardside carry-on was built to last—yes, even through major turbulence, airport havoc, and allll the unpaved streets in between (hello, Europe). That top-floor Airbnb will be a hell of a lot easier to handle with this bad boy, trust me.

Underseat Carry-On Spinner

Spinner wheels are my kryptonite. I move fairly aggressively through life—airport included—so wheels that can handle my abrupt movements always get an A+ from me. These spinner wheels, in particular, are attached to the cutest underseat bag from Samsonite, aka the perfect purple-y buddy for your carry-on or checked bag. The softside exterior makes it easy to squeeze into small spaces, so you can eliminate at least a little bit of stress during your travel journey.

Stratum 2.0 Expandable Hardside Luggage

American Tourister is one of those brands that's known for being both affordable and reliable—two of my fave things, obvi. And this particular piece of large luggage from the company should be put on your radar ASAP if you're looking for something durable and expandable. There are so many cute colors to choose from, too. My personal faves? Purple Haze and Soft Coral.

15-Inch Carry-On Suitcase

News flash: Steve Madden makes more than just super cute shoes. They also make incredibly chic and affordable pieces of luggage, and if I'm the first person to break that news to you, then you are so welcome. The main compartment on this carry-on is beyond spacious, and the brown trim makes everything look extra elevated. The U-shaped zipper you see on the front also opens up into a toiletry bag, which means it's basically two pieces in one—chef's kiss!

Stevyn Large Rolling Duffel

You've definitely seen Calpak on Insta before, and they sure know what they're doing when it comes to travel bags. While I wouldn't file their entire product line under "affordable," this duffel falls way below the so-expensive-I'll-go-into-debt line. It's a gorgeous neutral blue color and can hold a lot, meaning that you can use it on any type of trip. (No, like, one reviewer said they managed to pack two weeks' worth of clothes into this baby.) The roller wheels on the bottom make it easy to carry around, too, no matter where you're heading.

Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry-On Luggage

Although I'm a hardshell girlie 'til I die, this piece of luggage might (might!) convince me to go soft. It's available in 12 colors, is ultra-light and durable, and even expands two whole inches—meaning that you basically have to shop for souvenirs on your trip, right? Another plus: It's made from a stain-resistant and water-repellant fabric to combat all the oopsies that are bound to happen during your travels.

All-Day Neoprene Duffel Bag

Nothing says "I'm an expert traveler" quite like a crisp, expensive-looking duffel slung across your arm. And this neoprene beaut from Quince is that girl. Even when you're jetlagged, the eco-friendly duffel will elevate your airport fit to a 10 every time. There are plenty of zippered pockets, the material is water-resistant, and it has adjustable straps, so it's pretty much perfect in every way.

20-Inch Carry-On Luggage

Bagsmart's products are probably dominating your TikTok feed—I personally have their viral toiletry bag in my cart rn—and their luggage definitely deserves to be on your radar. This carry-on is a winner in my book: the two large outer pockets are ideal for quickly accessing things like passports and laptops, and the entire bag can expand up to two inches. The smaller duffel (which comes included!!) is the perfect carry-on companion, and fits under airplane, train, and car seats. So no matter your mode of transportation, you'll be good to go.

Spinner Trolley Carry-On

There's just something about a white suitcase that screams "chic traveler with zero fear of dirt," which is exactly who I aspire to be. If you're with me, this Coolife carry-on was made for you, and reviewers rave that it's super durable in addition to looking good. If you're looking for a set, you're in luck: you can also cop the 28-inch version, if that tickles your travel fancy.

Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage

This bag has nearly 6,000 five-star reviews, and for good reason. For my clumsy gals, this luggage is made of 100 percent polycarbonate, an extremely resilient material that's hard to crack or break (bless). It has two large fully-lined compartments with multiple pockets, plus a zippered divider to secure all of your fabulous, well-planned outfits. Plus, it's a great value for the price and comes in lots of colors.

20-Inch Carry-On Luggage

If my suitcase isn't giving robot, I don't want it. JK, but on the real, this luggage from LEVEL8 gives more than just a futuristic spin on your travel accessories—it comes equipped with eight super-quiet spinner wheels, a TSA-approved lock, two roomy compartments, and bumper feet to protect the outer shell. I'll take one in every color, thanks.

What's better, hard or soft luggage?

To be totally honest, the debate of hard vs. soft luggage is kind of pointless—all that matters is your personal preference! Softside luggage is easier to maneuver into smaller spaces and less vulnerable to scratches, but hardside luggage really protects your stuff.

Personally, I love hard luggage when I'm traveling somewhere I need to get to by plane—I'd rather have all of my belongings encased in something I know will protect them from turbulence and being thrown around by airline employees. But for road trips and other similar excursions, I'd rather choose a soft piece of luggage—that way I can squish it in a trunk or nook without a problem. Softside suitcases also tend to have outer pockets, which are key for storing things you'll need to grab in a pinch, like your passport.

Why trust Cosmo?

As you probably know, Cosmo's lifestyle team spends all day, every day scouring the internet, testing products, and reading reviews so we can bring you the type of high-quality content we'd want for ourselves (and our standards are preeeetty darn high, TBH).

It's also really important to us that each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge, and we try to make sure the products we feature are good for both you and our planet. If we wouldn't buy something for ourselves, we sure as heck won't recommend it to you—and we're always gonna keep it really, really real. Pinky swear.

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