Finding the perfect luggage is no mean feat, especially when factoring in baggage restrictions etc. Now I don’t like to call myself a diva, but I do have a suitcase or travel bag for every occasion, because a one-case-fits-all scenario doesn’t really cut it.
I may not always pack light, but I pack well, and I make the most of the space I’m given.
How to pack a suitcase if you have too many clothes
There are many holiday packing tips you can follow, however our editors at MC have some good rules when it comes to narrowing down your wardrobe, whether it’s for a weekend break or a longer holiday.
First off, prepare your case up to a week before your trip, adding clothes and accessories in as and when you remember them. Always lay shoes in first, in pairs on the sides. Fill in any gaps with belts (rolled up), jewellery and lingerie. Then lay clothes flat.
If using a soft holdall, use the same rules for shoes and accessories, but roll your clothes. For tangle-free jewellery on the move, store your daily treasures in a daily pill dispenser (try Boots or Muji) for a cheap and easy alternative to a jewellery roll or pouch.
As for your capsule wardrobe, it’s easy. Don’t pack things you wouldn’t wear at home, and choose layers in neutral shades, as they have better chances to go with everything else.
Best small cabin carry-on suitcase that’s perfect for a weekend away
For a chic weekend getaway, you can’t go wrong with the Ookonn round suitcase, which, with a bit of clever packing, you can actually fit a lot into. And we just adore the vintage hatbox design, you are guaranteed that no one else will have the same.
Shop now: OOKONN Front-stripe circular check-in suitcase for £380 from MATCHESFASHION
Thule have always had their fingers firmly on the pulse when it comes to innovative packing solutions, so praise be for the new Revolve carry-on which, in the ever-changing world of airline luggage size restrictions, is small enough to fit all your weekend essentials and not get regelated to the hold last minute. It’s also lightweight, zips along and the white gloss finish gets a 10/10 from us.
Shop now: Limited Edition Thule Revolve Cabin Suitcase for £349 exclusively from Harrods
Best suitcase if you have no space
Sadly, some airlines don’t even have enough room for cabin luggage, and no one likes having to put their carry-on in the hold. There are however some models which fit underneath the seat, like this AmazonBasics number.
Shop now: AmazonBasics Underseat Luggage for £33.77 from Amazon
Best cabin suitcase
The Tripp World cabin 4 wheel suitcase is made from tough and durable polypropylene and is super lightweight, has a TSA lock for safety and a 5 year warranty, so you can’t really go wrong with this one.
Shop now: Silver 19 degree aluminum carry on suitcase for £855 from Tumi
Best slightly bigger cabin suitcase
Luxury suitcase brand Away had the great idea to create a carry-on suitcase that is the biggest that is allowed on a flight (usually carry-ons are a little smaller), meaning maximum space for you. Plus it includes a built-in battery that will easily last you the weekend.
Shop now: The Away carry-on for £225 from Away
Best big suitcase
If you’re going away for longer then a week, then you can’t beat an extra large suitcase. Samsonite’s hard case is recommended for holidays of two weeks or more, and features a chic but durable hard shell as well as two compartments for storage.
Shop now: MIXMESH SPINNER (4 WHEELS) 81CM for £265 from Samsonite
Best suitcase for clothes
If you’re a bit of an OCD packer, then a foldable shelving case is the answer. Keep your shoes, underwear and clothe separate, avoid creasing and pack a decent amount too.
Shop now: Rise Gear Glider Portable Shelving Carry-On Luggage Grey for £245 from Amazon
Best travel bag
Away have recently added travel bags to their collection, and they fit perfectly on top of your suitcase.
Shop now: The everywhere bag for £195 from Away
Shop now: Vx Touring Duffel for £175 from VICTORINOX
Best light suitcase
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The problem with a lot of hard suitcases is that they are heavy, and it’s very easy to go over your baggage allowance and pay a hefty fee when you check in at the airport. Look for cases in light fabrics, like this Constellation case, which weights less than 3kg when empty.
Shop now: Lipault Originale Plume for £179
Best colourful suitcase
Shop now: RIMOWA check-in L suitcase for £670
There’s nothing worse than staring ages at the conveyor belt, trying to spot your black suitcase in a sea of other black suitcases. Antler’s array of bright ones will make sure that never happens again.
