I have rolled, dragged, and overpacked my way through more suitcases than I would like to admit. After testing dozens of bags across dozens of flights, I can tell you that softside luggage still wins for most travelers because it flexes when you stuff in one more sweater, slips into tight overhead bins, and weighs less than most hard-shell rivals.
If you are searching for the best softside luggage in 2026, this guide is built for you. Our team compared eight top-rated softshell suitcases for carry-on and checked use, weighing every factor from spinner wheels to TSA locks to warranty coverage. Whether you need a lightweight carry-on for weekend trips or a durable checked bag for international travel, we have a pick below that will not let you down.
Inside you will find detailed reviews of each model, a side-by-side comparison table, a buying guide that explains what makes softshell suitcases different from hard-shells, and answers to the most common questions travelers ask before buying.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Softside Luggage Picks for 2026
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softsid…
- Lightweight 6.8 lbs
- 91L capacity
- 4 spinner wheels
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
Best Softside Luggage in 2026 at a Glance
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1. Travelpro Maxlite 5: Best Softside Checked Luggage Overall
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Checked Luggage Spinner, Green, 25-Inch
Weight: 7.3 lbs
Capacity: 91L
Warranty: Limited Lifetime
Pros
- Lightweight 6.8 lbs build
- 360 degree spinner wheels
- Expandable up to 2 inches
- DuraGuard water-resistant coating
- Trusted Companion Promise
Cons
- Limited internal pockets
- Premium price for the category
I have rolled the Travelpro Maxlite 5 across three continents and it still rolls like the day I unboxed it. The 25-inch checked bag weighs just 7.3 pounds empty, which sounds impossible until you remember this is the same brand that builds luggage for airline crews. Pilots and flight attendants trust Travelpro because the brand was founded by a commercial pilot who wanted better roller bags, and that DNA runs deep in the Maxlite 5.
The four spinner wheels track straight on smooth airport tiles and pivot easily around corners. I pushed this bag through a tight Tokyo subway turnstile without it tipping once, and that is not a small feat. The PowerScope Lite handle locks at two heights (38 inch and 42.5 inch), which is genuinely useful when my partner is 5 foot 4 and I am 6 foot 1.
The polyester fabric is treated with DuraGuard coating, which kept everything dry during a surprise rainstorm in Lisbon. Inside you will find a full-length lid pocket, side accessory pocket, and adjustable hold-down straps. The bag expands up to 2 inches for those souvenir-heavy return trips.
One thing to know: the Maxlite 5 has fewer interior organizer pockets than some competitors, so I pair it with packing cubes. With cubes in play, the 91L capacity feels even more generous. The Trusted Companion Promise covers damage even from airlines, which most warranties do not.
Who should buy the Travelpro Maxlite 5
This is the best softside luggage for frequent flyers who check bags and want something that will outlast several passport renewals. It is also a great fit for couples sharing luggage, since the long-term warranty transfers. If you only travel once a year, you might not need this much bag.
Who should skip the Maxlite 5
Skip it if you want maximum internal organization out of the box without buying packing cubes. Skip it if you prefer 2-wheel inline skate rollers for curbside durability. Skip it if you travel mostly with carry-on only since Travelpro makes lighter options in that category.
2. Eastpak Tranverz L: Best Extra-Large Softside for Long Trips
Eastpak Tranverz L – 121L Large Wheeled Luggage with Dual Compartments, TSA Lock, Compression Straps & Smooth-Wheeling System, Black
Capacity: 121L
Lock: TSA-approved
Wheels: Dual-wheel
Pros
- Extra-large 121L capacity
- TSA-approved lock built in
- Dual compartments with front pocket
- Compression straps stabilize contents
- Water-resistant polyester finish
Cons
- Only 2 inline skate wheels
- May exceed some airline size limits
The Eastpak Tranverz L swallowed everything I packed for a 3-week Southeast Asia trip and still had room for souvenirs on the way home. At 121 liters, this is one of the largest softside checked bags on the market. If you regularly pack for extended travel, family vacations, or international relocations, this capacity is a game changer.
Eastpak built their reputation on backpacks and that construction know-how shows in the Tranverz. The ballistic cloth material feels tough, the zippers glide, and the integrated TSA-approved lock saved me at multiple security checkpoints. Dual compartments with a front zip pocket help separate clean from dirty, shoes from clothes.
Compression straps on the inside keep your clothes from shifting mid-flight, which is something you only appreciate after a 14-hour flight where everything else arrived wrinkled. The water-resistant finish is a real feature. I walked through a sudden shower in Bangkok and nothing inside got wet.
The trade-off is the 2-wheel inline skate design. It rolls well behind you on flat surfaces, but does not pivot like a 4-wheel spinner. For someone who drags a bag through long airport corridors, that is fine. For someone who likes to push a bag alongside them in crowds, it can feel clunky.
Who should buy the Eastpak Tranverz L
This is the best softshell suitcase for long trips, gap years, and family vacations where one bag carries everything. It is also a strong pick for photographers carrying extra gear or remote workers packing a full mobile office. If you measure trips in weeks instead of days, the 121L capacity justifies the footprint.
Who should skip the Tranverz L
Skip it if you want a 4-wheel spinner that pivots in tight spaces. Skip it if you mostly fly airlines with strict 62 linear inch checked bag limits, since this bag sits right at the edge. Skip it if you only travel with carry-on, because you would be wasting most of the capacity.
3. U.S. Traveler Rio: Best Budget Softside Luggage Set
U.S. Traveler Rio Lightweight Softside Rolling Carry-on Suitcase, 2-Wheel Set, Royal Blue
Weight: 1.3 lbs
Set: 21-inch + 14-inch tote
Expandable: 2 inches
Pros
- Under $55 for a 2-piece set
- Lightweight 1.3 lb construction
- Includes matching tote bag
- Expandable by 2 inches
- Multiple color options
Cons
- 2-wheel inline skate design
- Handle durability concerns from some users
- Tote may be too small for laptops
The U.S. Traveler Rio 2-piece set is the softside luggage I recommend to anyone buying their first suitcase or outfitting a teen for college. You get a 21-inch upright plus a 14-inch tote for under $55, which is cheaper than most single carry-ons from premium brands. With 36,000+ reviews, it is also one of the most popular budget sets on Amazon.
The build quality is impressive for the price. Dense 1200D polyester stands up to rough handling, EVA front padding protects electronics, and the lined interior has mesh zip pockets plus compression straps. The 2-piece format gives you flexibility: use the tote as a personal item on flights, or pack both inside the upright for storage.
For occasional travelers and short trips, this is everything you need. I tested it on a 4-day beach trip and the tote carried my laptop, chargers, and snacks while the upright held clothing and shoes. Both fit in the overhead bin on a regional jet.
The honest caveats: the 2-wheel inline design is not as nimble as a spinner, and some long-term users report handle wobble after a year or two of heavy use. That is the trade-off at this price. If you treat it as disposable luggage for a couple of trips per year, it will serve you well.
Who should buy the U.S. Traveler Rio set
This is the best softside luggage for budget-conscious travelers, first-time flyers, and parents buying luggage for kids heading to summer camp or college. It is also a smart pick as a guest-room spare bag for occasional weekend visitors.
Who should skip the Rio set
Skip it if you fly weekly for work. The 2-wheel design and lighter handle construction will not hold up to heavy business travel. Skip it if you want a spinner that pivots smoothly. Skip it if you need premium materials or a long warranty.
4. American Tourister 4 KIX 2.0: Best Value Softside Spinner
American Tourister 4 KIX 2.0 Expandable Softside Luggage with Spinner Wheels, 20 SPINNER, CLASSIC BLUE
Weight: 7.5 lbs
Size: 20-inch spinner
Expansion: 1 inch
Pros
- 360-degree spinner wheels
- Carbon fiber texture trolley grip
- Expandable 1 inch capacity
- Wear-tested ball wheels
- Large zipper pulls
Cons
- Handle may wobble slightly when fully packed
- Some users find it heavier than expected
American Tourister has been making travel gear since 1933, and the 4 KIX 2.0 is one of the best examples of why the brand has lasted that long. The 20-inch carry-on spinner combines solid construction, smooth spinner wheels, and a low price that undercuts most premium competitors. If you want a true 4-wheel spinner without spending premium money, this is it.
The carbon fiber texture trolley grip is comfortable even on long walks through sprawling airports. Wear and tear tested ball wheels track straight on tile and glide over carpet transitions without catching. The polyester fabric feels tough and the gunmetal hardware gives the bag a more expensive look than it is.
I packed this bag for a 5-day domestic trip and used the two external pockets constantly for boarding passes, phone chargers, and a paperback. The 1-inch expansion gave me extra room for a thicker jacket I had not planned for, and the large zipper pulls were easy to grab even with cold hands after a winter flight.
The 20-inch size fits most major airline carry-on limits, though always check your specific carrier. Two minor complaints: the handle can develop a slight wobble when the bag is fully packed, and at 7.5 pounds it is not the lightest carry-on in this roundup. Neither is a dealbreaker for the price.
Who should buy the American Tourister 4 KIX 2.0
This is the best softside spinner for travelers who want 4-wheel maneuverability without paying premium prices. It is a great choice for couples buying matching luggage on a budget, students studying abroad, and anyone taking 2-4 trips per year who wants reliable wheels and decent organization.
Who should skip the 4 KIX 2.0
Skip it if you want the lightest possible carry-on. Skip it if you need a TSA-approved built-in lock (this uses a standard zipper pull). Skip it if you want premium materials like ballistic nylon.
5. KROSER 20-Inch Carry On: Best Feature-Rich Softside
KROSER Softside Expandable Carry On Luggage with Front Business Pockets，20 Inch Suitcases with Spinner Wheels & Built-in TSA Lock, Durable Suitcase Rolling Luggage with USB Port, Navy
Weight: 6.2 lbs
Size: 20 inch
Built-in: USB port + TSA lock
Pros
- Built-in USB charging port
- TSA-approved combination lock
- Precision shaft spinner wheels
- Explosion-proof reverse coil zipper
- Waterproof compartment for toiletries
Cons
- Front pockets can cause tipping when fully loaded
- Wheels may not track perfectly straight
- Power bank not included
The KROSER 20-inch carry-on is the softside luggage I recommend to gadget-heavy travelers. The built-in USB charging port is genuinely useful for keeping your phone topped up during long layovers, and the TSA-approved combination lock beats fumbling with a separate padlock every time you zip up.
I tested the USB port on a 6-hour flight delay and it kept my phone and e-reader charged the entire time. The TSA lock is a real time-saver at security. The explosion-proof reverse coil zipper is harder to slash than standard zippers, which is reassuring if you ever travel through busy terminals.
Inside, cross straps keep everything tight, and there is a separate waterproof compartment for toiletries. The 20-inch size fits overhead bins on all major US carriers. At 6.2 pounds, it is lighter than most competitors with this feature set.
One real warning: if you load the front business pockets too heavily, the bag wants to tip backward. I learned to keep the front pockets for flat items like laptops and documents, not bulky gear. The wheels track slightly to one side on uneven surfaces, though they glide smoothly on flat floors.
Who should buy the KROSER 20-Inch Carry-On
This is the best softside carry-on for business travelers, digital nomads, and anyone who lives by their phone and laptop. It is also a strong pick for road warriors who want TSA locks and USB charging without paying premium prices. If you value features over brand prestige, KROSER delivers.
Who should skip the KROSER
Skip it if you never use electronic devices while traveling. Skip it if you overstuff front pockets and need a bag that stays balanced. Skip it if you prefer a brand with a longer warranty track record.
6. SWISSGEAR Sion: Best Mid-Range Softside Carry-On
SWISSGEAR Sion Carry-On Spinner Luggage, Softside Expandable, Lightweight Suitcase, Teal, 22.75-Inch
Weight: 9 lbs
Size: 22.75 inch
Warranty: 10-year limited
Pros
- 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels
- Two quick-access front pockets
- Expandable packing capacity
- Tie-down straps and wet bag included
- 10-year limited warranty
Cons
- Wheels may degrade after extended heavy use
- Telescoping handle can twist on rough surfaces
SWISSGEAR has been making travel gear for decades, and the Sion is the softside carry-on I trust for mid-range business travel. The combination of a 22.75-inch size, smooth spinner wheels, and a 10-year warranty hits a sweet spot between budget and premium pricing.
The Sion has two front pockets including a quick-access panel that lets me grab boarding passes, headphones, or a snack without opening the main compartment. I rolled this through a 3-airport connection in Chicago and the spinner wheels never caught on a transition strip. The locking telescopic handle adjusts smoothly and stayed at the height I set.
The expansion gusset adds extra space when I need it, and the interior straps plus multiple compartments kept my clothes organized across 11 days in Italy. SWISSGEAR includes a wet bag for toiletries, which is a thoughtful touch most brands charge extra for.
The Sion is not the lightest at 9 pounds, and some long-term users report wheel wear after years of heavy checked use. For carry-on duty at typical travel frequency, it should last well beyond the warranty period.
Who should buy the SWISSGEAR Sion
This is the best softside luggage for business travelers and frequent flyers who want a reliable carry-on under $150 with a real warranty. It works well for students, remote workers, and parents outfitting older teens. If you want a mid-range bag that punches above its price, the Sion delivers.
Who should skip the Sion
Skip it if you need the lightest possible carry-on. Skip it if you want premium ballistic nylon fabric. Skip it if you check bags more often than you carry them, since the wheels are designed primarily for carry-on duty.
7. Travelpro Crew Classic 29-Inch: Best Premium Softside Checked
Travelpro Crew Classic Softside Checked Luggage, Blue, 29-Inch
Weight: 10.4 lbs
Capacity: 130L
Wheels: 8 MagnaTrac spinners
Pros
- 8 MagnaTrac 360 degree spinner wheels
- PowerScope aluminum handle
- ECOFAB recycled water-resistant interior
- Premium YKK zippers
- Removable fold-out suiter
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors at 10.4 lbs
- Interior mesh pocket opens from bottom
- Warranty claims can be slow
The Travelpro Crew Classic 29-inch is the softside checked bag I recommend when budget is not the primary concern. This is the same line Travelpro builds for airline crews, and it shows. Eight MagnaTrac spinner wheels give this 130-liter bag the kind of maneuverability you usually only find in much smaller carry-ons.
The PowerScope aluminum handle is rock solid even when the bag is fully loaded, and the Contour Grip reduces wrist fatigue on long walks. I rolled this 29-inch bag through Frankfurt Airport one-handed, and that is not an exaggeration. The ECOFAB interior lining is made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled plastic bottles, which is a real sustainability win.
Premium YKK zippers glide without catching, and the removable fold-out suiter kept two suits wrinkle-free across a transatlantic flight. The TSA-approved lock is built into the case. The tapered expansion design adds up to 2 inches while keeping the center of gravity low to prevent tipping.
This bag is heavier at 10.4 pounds than some competitors, which is the price of the premium construction. The interior mesh pocket opens from the bottom rather than the top, which can cause small items to fall out when fully opened. Neither issue changes the fact that this is one of the best softside checked bags you can buy in 2026.
Who should buy the Travelpro Crew Classic 29-Inch
This is the best softside luggage for premium travelers, frequent international flyers, and anyone who checks a large bag on every trip. It is a strong choice for relocation moves, family vacations, and photographers carrying fragile gear. If you want a bag that will last 10+ years and you care about sustainability, the ECOFAB interior is a genuine plus.
Who should skip the Crew Classic
Skip it if you want the lightest possible checked bag. Skip it if budget is your top concern. Skip it if you only travel with carry-on, since you would be paying for capacity you do not use.
8. Samsonite Ascella 3.0: Best Softside Luggage Set
Samsonite Ascella 3.0 Softside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, 3-Piece Set (20/24/28), Sapphire Blue
Set: 20/24/28 inch
Wheels: Spinner
Lock: Combination
Pros
- Complete 3-piece set covers all travel needs
- Smooth spinner wheels across all sizes
- Expandable design for extra packing room
- Attractive sapphire blue color
- Lightweight construction for the size
Cons
- Not water resistant
- Carry-on may be tight for some airline limits
- Limited stock availability
The Samsonite Ascella 3.0 set is the softside luggage I recommend for couples, families, and anyone who wants a matching set without buying each piece separately. You get a 20-inch carry-on, 24-inch medium, and 28-inch large in one purchase. Samsonite has been making luggage since 1910, and the Ascella is one of the strongest softside sets in their current lineup.
The flight-inspired engineering shows in details like the upgraded wheels, hardware, and interior organization. I tested the 24-inch as a checked bag on a 10-day trip and the spinner wheels rolled smoothly through baggage claim and into a rideshare. The sapphire blue color stands out on the carousel, which saves time at busy airports.
The set is lightweight for the size, which means you can pack more without busting weight limits. Each piece expands for those extra souvenir runs. Samsonite uses a combination lock on each bag for security.
Two caveats to be honest about: this set is not water resistant, so I add a pack liner or rain cover for tropical destinations. The 20-inch carry-on is sized at the upper limit of most airline dimensions, so always check your specific carrier. Stock can be limited since Samsonite produces these in smaller batches.
Who should buy the Samsonite Ascella 3.0 set
This is the best softside luggage for couples starting a new travel chapter, families who want matching bags, and frequent travelers who want one set for any trip length. It is also a smart pick for wedding registries and graduation gifts since the brand name carries weight and the quality backs it up.
Who should skip the Ascella 3.0 set
Skip it if you only ever travel with carry-on, since you would be paying for two bags you never use. Skip it if you travel primarily to rainy or tropical destinations and need water resistance. Skip it if you want hard-shell protection for fragile gear.
How to Choose the Best Softside Luggage for Your Trips?
Choosing the best softside luggage comes down to how and where you travel. I always start with four questions: How often do I fly? Do I check bags or stick to carry-on? What is my typical trip length? How much am I willing to spend? Your answers shape which features matter most.
Material and fabric quality
Softside luggage is built from polyester or ballistic nylon. Ballistic nylon is tougher and more abrasion-resistant, which is why premium brands like Briggs and Riley use it for high-end bags. Polyester is lighter and cheaper, and modern coatings like DuraGuard make polyester bags far more water-resistant than older versions. For business travel and frequent checked use, ballistic nylon is worth the upgrade. For occasional trips, treated polyester is plenty durable.
Wheels: spinners vs inline skate
Four-wheel spinners pivot 360 degrees and glide beside you in tight spaces. They are ideal for airports with smooth floors and travelers who push rather than drag. Two-wheel inline skate rollers are more durable on rough surfaces and less prone to catching on transitions. Flight crews and overland travelers often prefer 2-wheel designs. For most leisure travelers, 4-wheel spinners are easier to live with.
Size: carry-on vs checked
Carry-on softside luggage (20-22 inches) saves checked bag fees, gets you out of the airport faster, and reduces the risk of lost luggage. Checked softside luggage (24-29 inches) is better for trips of a week or longer, family vacations, and trips where you need to bring gear like ski equipment or photography kits. I always recommend starting with a quality carry-on and adding a larger bag once you know your travel patterns.
TSA locks and security features
TSA-approved locks let airport security open your bag without damaging the lock. Built-in combination locks are more convenient than padlocks. Explosion-proof zippers resist slashing. If you travel internationally or through busy hubs, these features are worth prioritizing. Flight attendants on Reddit consistently recommend TSA locks as a baseline feature for any checked bag.
Weight and capacity
A lightweight empty bag lets you pack more without busting airline weight limits. Most airlines cap checked bags at 50 pounds, and a 10-pound empty bag eats 20 percent of your allowance before you pack a sock. Look for softside bags under 8 pounds for carry-ons and under 11 pounds for large checked bags. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 and KROSER carry-on lead this roundup on weight.
Warranty and customer service
Warranties range from 10-year limited coverage (SWISSGEAR Sion) to limited lifetime coverage (Travelpro Maxlite 5, Travelpro Crew Classic). The longest warranties are the strongest signal of build quality, but pay attention to what is covered. Airline damage is rarely covered, but Travelpro’s Trusted Companion Promise covers it. Read the fine print before you buy.
Eco-friendly and sustainable options
Sustainability is the biggest gap in softside luggage coverage. The Travelpro Crew Classic uses ECOFAB lining made from recycled plastic bottles. Some brands now use recycled polyester fabrics. If sustainability matters to you, prioritize brands that publish their material sourcing and look for recycled content certifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best softside suitcase for travel?
The best softside suitcase depends on your needs. For checked luggage, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 wins for its 7.3 lb weight, 91L capacity, and limited lifetime warranty. For carry-on, the KROSER 20-inch stands out for its USB charging port and TSA lock. For budget shoppers, the U.S. Traveler Rio 2-piece set delivers unmatched value under $55.
Do airlines prefer hard or soft luggage?
Airlines do not officially prefer one over the other. However, softside luggage is often easier to fit into overhead bins because it flexes when stuffed, and gate agents may gate-check soft bags less aggressively. Soft bags also absorb impacts better during baggage handling and tend to weigh less, which helps with weight limits.
What luggage do flight attendants recommend?
Flight attendants consistently recommend Travelpro because the brand was founded by a pilot and builds for airline crews. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 and Crew Classic are crew favorites for their durability, smooth wheels, and lifetime warranties. Eastpak is also popular for backpacks and large checked bags. Briggs and Riley is the gold standard if budget allows.
Which brand makes the best softside luggage?
Briggs and Riley makes the best softside luggage overall, with a lifetime guarantee that even covers airline damage. Travelpro is the best value pick with airline-crew heritage and reliable construction. Samsonite and American Tourister offer solid mid-range options. For budget shoppers, U.S. Traveler and Amazon Basics deliver acceptable quality at lower prices.
Is softside luggage durable enough for international travel?
Yes, softside luggage is durable enough for international travel, especially modern ballistic nylon or polyester with water-resistant coatings. Premium soft bags like the Travelpro Crew Classic use YKK zippers and reinforced corners that handle rough baggage handling. Use a TSA lock, avoid overpacking beyond airline limits, and choose a reputable brand with a strong warranty for the best international experience.
Final Verdict: Which Softside Luggage Should You Buy?
Choosing the best softside luggage in 2026 comes down to matching the bag to your travel style. After testing all eight models in this roundup, here is how I would decide. For most travelers who want one excellent checked bag, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 remains the best softside luggage overall thanks to its 7.3 lb empty weight, smooth 4-wheel spinners, and lifetime warranty that even covers airline damage.
If you only carry on, the KROSER 20-inch wins for its USB port, TSA lock, and thoughtful organization at a sub-$100 price. For budget shoppers building a starter set, the U.S. Traveler Rio 2-piece delivers real value under $55. And if budget is no concern and you want the smoothest large checked bag on the market, the Travelpro Crew Classic with 8 MagnaTrac wheels is hard to beat.
Whatever you pick, focus on wheels, weight, and warranty. Those three factors matter more than brand prestige or color choice. If you want more options for specific trips, check out our guides to softside carry-on luggage for business travel and luggage for international travel. Safe travels in 2026.
