Planning a family trip? Whether it’s a cross-country adventure or a simple weekend getaway, giving your child their own luggage can make the experience so much more exciting for them. Not only does it teach them responsibility, but it also means less stuff for you to juggle! But with so many options out there, how do you find the best suitcase for kids? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a hand-picked selection of top-notch children’s luggage, focusing on durability, ease of use, fun designs, and overall value. From hardshell options built to withstand rough and tumble play to adorable sets that include everything your little traveler needs, you’re sure to find the perfect pick here. Let’s dive in!
Why Your Child Needs Their Own Suitcase
Beyond the obvious benefit of not having to carry all their stuff yourself, a dedicated kid’s suitcase offers several advantages:
- Sense of Responsibility: Packing and managing their own bag fosters independence.
- Excitement for Travel: A cool, kid-friendly suitcase makes the journey feel like a grand adventure.
- Personal Space: They get to choose what goes in their bag (within reason, of course!).
- Ease of Identification: Bright colors and unique designs make spotting their bag a breeze.
What to Look For in a Kid’s Suitcase
Before we jump into our top picks for the best suitcase for kids, here are a few key features to consider:
- Durability: Kids can be tough on their belongings, so look for sturdy materials like ABS or polycarbonate.
- Size & Weight: It should be easy for your child to maneuver, not too heavy when empty, and ideally carry-on compliant.
- Wheels: Spinner wheels (360-degree rotation) offer the best maneuverability for little hands.
- Handle: A telescoping handle that adjusts to different heights is crucial for comfort.
- Design: Fun patterns and bright colors are a big hit with kids and help distinguish their luggage.
- Organization: Interior pockets and straps help keep belongings tidy.
Our Top 5 Picks for the Best Suitcase for Kids
1. Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-On Luggage
Sometimes, what your little one needs is a robust, no-nonsense piece of travel gear that performs like an adult’s but fits their adventurous spirit. The Amazon Basics Hardside Carry-On is a fantastic choice for older kids or teens, or even younger kids who need a more ‘grown-up’ travel companion. Its sturdy construction and expandable design mean it’s ready for any adventure, offering reliable protection for all their treasures.
Key Features:
- CARRY-ON DESIGN: Best for 1-5 day trips; measures 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 inches, including wheels.
- DURABLE AND RELIABLE: Extra-thick hard shell with scratch-resistant finish guards against impact.
- EXPANDABLE: Increase packing space up to 25% for added flexibility.
- ORGANIZED INTERIOR: Interior divider and three zippered pockets.
- EFFORTLESS TRAVEL: Four multi-directional wheels, telescoping handle, and short lift handle.
Pros:
- Very durable hardside construction.
- Expandable feature is great for souvenir overload.
- Smooth spinner wheels make navigating easy.
- Excellent value for a full-featured carry-on.
Cons:
- Lacks kid-specific design, which some children might prefer.
- The 21″ size might be a bit large for very young children to manage solo.
User Impressions: Parents appreciate its robust build quality and the fact that it can take a beating, just like adult luggage. Many found it surprisingly lightweight for a hardside, making it manageable for older kids. The smooth-rolling wheels received consistent praise.
2. Wrangler 20″ Spinner Carry-On Luggage, Teal
The Wrangler 20″ Spinner Carry-On is another solid contender for kids who are ready for a more sophisticated, yet still practical, travel bag. Its vibrant teal color stands out without being overtly childish, making it perfect for tweens and teens, or even younger kids who appreciate a sleek look. The smooth mobility and organized interior ensure a stress-free journey, keeping their belongings safe and sound.
Key Features:
- Smooth Mobility: Effortless travel with a 360-degree spinner wheel system.
- Organized Packing: Fully-lined interior with a dividing zipper and compression straps.
- Easy Lifting: Convenient top carry handle for quick grabs.
- Durable & Lightweight: Constructed from hard shell ABS material.
- Airline Compliant: Meets most airline carry-on standards, including popular budget airlines.
Pros:
- Excellent 360-degree spinner wheels for easy maneuvering.
- Compression straps are a lifesaver for maximizing space and keeping things neat.
- Lightweight yet protective hardshell design.
- Attractive, versatile color.
Cons:
- No external pockets, which some kids might miss for quick-access items.
- Still a more ‘adult’ aesthetic than some kids might prefer.
User Impressions: Customers often highlight the smooth-gliding wheels as a major plus, making it easy for anyone, including kids, to navigate busy airports. The durability of the ABS material also gets frequent mentions, with many satisfied with its ability to withstand travel wear and tear.
3. Travelers Club 5 Piece Kids’ Luggage Set, Bunny
Now this is what we call kid-friendly! The Travelers Club 5 Piece Kids’ Luggage Set in a delightful bunny design is an all-in-one solution for your child’s travel needs. It’s not just a suitcase; it’s an entire travel system designed to make packing and carrying fun and effortless. Perfect for younger children, this set adds an element of whimsical charm to any family vacation.
Key Features:
- 5 Piece Children’s Travel Set: Includes 18″ Hardside Carry-on, 15″ Backpack, 10″ Lunch Bag, Neck Pillow, Luggage Tag.
- Bright and fun colors: Vibrant designs easy to spot.
- Durable and lightweight design: High-quality materials built to withstand travel.
- Carry On Suitcase: Cabin sized, 4 Wheels, Hardside.
- Easy to maneuver: Smooth-rolling wheels and telescoping handle.
Pros:
- Complete set offers incredible value and coordinated style.
- Adorable bunny design is a huge hit with kids.
- Hardside suitcase provides good protection.
- Includes a backpack and lunch bag, perfect for day trips during vacation.
Cons:
- The 18″ suitcase might be a bit small for longer trips, even for a child.
- Some components (like the neck pillow) might be basic quality.
User Impressions: Parents absolutely adore the cuteness factor and the completeness of this set. Kids love having their own matching gear. Many noted that the suitcase itself is surprisingly robust for a children’s set, and the wheels make it easy for little ones to pull along themselves.
4. Nautica Kids Luggage – 18″ Airline Approved Rolling
Ahoy there, little travelers! The Nautica Kids Luggage brings a touch of nautical adventure to your child’s journey. This 18″ rolling suitcase is specifically designed with younger kids in mind, offering a durable hardside construction combined with a super fun, stylish print. It’s the perfect size for carry-on, making it an excellent choice for plane trips where every inch counts.
Key Features:
- Durable Design: Made from PC and ABS hardside construction to withstand travel rigors.
- Smooth Rolling: Multi-directional spinner wheels; aluminum telescoping handle adjusts from 6-20 inches.
- Plenty of Space: 31L interior capacity (11.8 x 7.08 x 15.75 inches), with an internal mesh pocket.
- Travel-Sized Dimensions: Overall 12.2 x 9.05 x 20 inches, ideal for carry-on requirements.
- Stylish Print: Fun nautical graphics for expressing unique style.
Pros:
- Eye-catching and child-friendly nautical design.
- Durable hardside shell protects contents well.
- Spinner wheels and adjustable handle make it super easy for kids to pull.
- Perfect carry-on dimensions for most airlines.
Cons:
- At 18″, it’s on the smaller side, potentially limiting packing for longer trips.
- Only a single internal mesh pocket, could use more organization.
User Impressions: Kids are immediately drawn to the vibrant nautical print, making packing exciting. Parents frequently praise the suitcase’s sturdy build and smooth-rolling spinner wheels, which allow even young children to navigate airports with ease. The compact, carry-on friendly size is also a consistent highlight.
5. Sanwuta 4 Pcs Kids Luggage Set Kids Backpack Travel
For the child who loves rainbows and wants a complete, adorable travel ensemble, the Sanwuta 4 Pcs Kids Luggage Set is a dream come true. This beautiful pink rainbow set isn’t just about looks; it’s thoughtfully designed to be waterproof, durable, and equipped with features that make travel smoother for both kids and parents. It’s truly one of the best suitcases for kids looking for a fun, functional set.
Key Features:
- Lots of Space: Includes a suitcase and a backpack with plenty of compartments; rolling backpack measures about 17 inches high.
- Reliable Design: Made with polycarbonate, ABS, and nylon; waterproof hard outer coating, 360-degree spin wheels, and locking zipper.
- Considerable Accessories: Soft travel neck pillow and a cute matching rainbow name tag.
- Cute Printed: Beautiful rainbow pictures in a predominantly pink color.
- Learn and Enjoy Packing: Ideal for teaching kids organization, while being easy to carry.
Pros:
- Comprehensive set with backpack, neck pillow, and luggage tag.
- Vibrant, appealing rainbow design.
- Durable, waterproof hardside construction.
- Smooth 360-degree spinner wheels and locking zippers for security.
Cons:
- The “rolling backpack” style for the main piece might not be everyone’s preference over a traditional suitcase.
- The 17-inch height for the rolling bag may be slightly smaller than some other carry-ons.
User Impressions: This set is a hit with kids for its adorable rainbow design, often making them eager to pack. Parents appreciate the quality of the hardshell and the smooth-gliding wheels. The added accessories like the neck pillow and name tag are seen as thoughtful touches that complete the travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids’ Luggage
Q1: What’s the ideal age for a child to get their own suitcase?
A1: Generally, children aged 3-4 years old can start using their own small rolling suitcase. It helps them feel independent and excited about travel. For sets with backpacks, even younger toddlers can carry their own small bag.
Q2: Should I choose a hardside or softside suitcase for my child?
A2: Hardside suitcases (like most of our picks) are often recommended for kids because they offer better protection for contents and are generally easier to clean. Softside options can be lighter and offer external pockets, but might not be as durable against bumps and drops.
Q3: What size suitcase is best for kids, especially for carry-on?
A3: For carry-on purposes, look for suitcases in the 16-20 inch range. This size is typically airline compliant and manageable for children. The specific dimensions can vary slightly between airlines, so always double-check if flying.
Q4: Are spinner wheels really necessary for kids’ luggage?
A4: While not strictly “necessary,” spinner wheels (360-degree rotation) make a huge difference in maneuverability. They allow the suitcase to glide effortlessly in any direction, reducing strain on your child’s wrist and making it much easier for them to navigate through busy airports or hotels.
Q5: How can I encourage my child to pack and be responsible for their own bag?
A5: Make it a fun activity! Let them choose their own special suitcase. Give them a packing list with pictures, and allow them to pick out some of their clothes and toys. Start with small, manageable tasks and praise their efforts.
Q6: What materials are most durable for kids’ luggage?
A6: For hardside luggage, polycarbonate and ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) are excellent choices known for their impact resistance and durability. For softside options, thick, rip-stop nylon or polyester are good bets.
Q7: Is it better to buy a kids’ luggage set or just a single suitcase?
A7: A luggage set, which often includes a suitcase, backpack, and sometimes other accessories, offers great value and a coordinated look. It’s fantastic for younger kids who enjoy having matching gear for various travel needs. A single suitcase might be enough for older kids or if you already have suitable backpacks.
We hope this guide helps you find the best suitcase for kids that perfectly fits your family’s travel style and your little one’s personality. Happy travels!