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10 Best Soft Suitcases 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TUMI - Alpha Continental Expandable 4-Wheeled Carry-On Luggage - Compact Travel Suitcase - TSA Lock Tracer - Black

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,389
Material
Size and Capacity

Most important from
51 reviews

Material
Users appreciate the durability of the TUMI Alpha Continental, especially when compared to other brands.
Size and Capacity
The TUMI Alpha Continental is perfect for those seeking the largest possible carry-on suitcase.

The TUMI Alpha Continental Expandable 4-Wheeled Carry-On Luggage is an excellent choice for both men and women who seek a durable and stylish travel suitcase. Made from FXT ballistic nylon, this suitcase promises resilience, making it suitable for frequent travelers. The suitcase's compact size of 22” x 16” x 9” is great for a weekend getaway while the zip expansion feature allows for an increase to 11”, providing flexibility for additional items you may need to carry. This adaptability is perfect for travelers who want to pack efficiently.

One of the standout features is the 4-wheeled design, allowing for smooth gliding through busy airports, which can make a big difference when you're rushing to catch a flight. The built-in TSA lock enhances security, ensuring that your belongings stay safe during travel. Plus, the integrated USB-C port gives a tech-savvy edge, enabling you to charge devices on the go—a real bonus for modern travelers.

If you're looking for a reliable and stylish carry-on that combines functionality with a touch of modern technology, the TUMI Alpha Continental is a solid choice.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,389
Material
Size and Capacity

Most important from
51 reviews

Material
Users appreciate the durability of the TUMI Alpha Continental, especially when compared to other brands.
Size and Capacity
The TUMI Alpha Continental is perfect for those seeking the largest possible carry-on suitcase.
#2

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside 2pc Set Expandable Carry On Luggage with 4 Spinner Wheels/Soft Underseat Tote, Lightweight Suitcase, Men and Women, Burgundy

Rating
9.6
Material
Weight
Wheels and Handles

Most important from
189 reviews

Material
These pieces are very sturdy and hold quite a bit for a spinner, making them worth the investment.
Weight
This luggage is truly lightweight with lots of zippered compartments, sturdy construction, and easy maneuverability.
Wheels and Handles
The carry-on wheels glide like a dream and don't pull to the left or feel tight.
Compartments and Organization
The many zippers zoom up and down like butter, making access and organization effortless.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside 2pc Set is a strong contender in the soft-suitcase category, particularly for those looking for lightweight and easily maneuverable luggage. The set includes a 21-inch expandable carry-on with 4 spinner wheels and an underseat tote. Its standout feature is its lightweight design, with the carry-on weighing in at just 1.6 pounds, making it easy to lift and carry around.

The adjustable PowerScope Lite handle and 360-degree rotating spinners add to the comfort and ease of mobility, ensuring that the luggage can be easily maneuvered through airports and other travel hubs. The multiple compartments, including exterior front pockets and various interior pockets, make organization simple and efficient, which is great for keeping essentials handy and sorted. The expandable feature offers versatility in packing, allowing for additional space when needed.

A potential drawback is the material, as soft-sided cases may not offer as much protection for fragile items compared to hard-sided alternatives. The product promises a limited lifetime coverage plus a one-year repair coverage for airline or common carrier damage. The stylish burgundy color and unisex design ensure it appeals to a wide range of users. This set would be especially beneficial for travelers who prioritize lightweight and flexible luggage, along with those who need a reliable carry-on and underseat bag for frequent travels or short trips.

Rating
9.6
Material
Weight
Wheels and Handles

Most important from
189 reviews

Material
These pieces are very sturdy and hold quite a bit for a spinner, making them worth the investment.
Weight
This luggage is truly lightweight with lots of zippered compartments, sturdy construction, and easy maneuverability.
Wheels and Handles
The carry-on wheels glide like a dream and don't pull to the left or feel tight.
Compartments and Organization
The many zippers zoom up and down like butter, making access and organization effortless.
#3

eagle creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel 110L Charcoal

Rating
9.3
Material
Size and Capacity
Weight

Most important from
679 reviews

Material
This bag is as beautiful as it is sturdy and well-constructed, suitable for both men and women.
Size and Capacity
Ample space for a 12-day journey, and it folds down into a compact carry case for storage.
Weight
Folds up into a small package, very lightweight, making it easy to travel with.
Wheels and Handles
The big, treaded wheels are designed to fit perfectly into the structure of the bag.

The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 110L Rolling Duffle Bag is designed for travelers needing a durable and spacious option. Weighing just 4 pounds, it's relatively lightweight for a bag of its size, making it easy to maneuver. The 110-liter capacity is impressive, allowing you to pack a significant amount of gear, which is ideal for longer trips or outdoor adventures. Its durable water-repellent material ensures your belongings stay dry, a crucial feature for those traveling in wet conditions.

The bag offers three carrying options — wheels and handle, tuck-away backpack straps, and side grab handles — providing versatility depending on your travel situation. The U-shaped top lid makes accessing your items straightforward, and the end pocket is handy for essentials you might need quickly.

The security features, including a lockable zipper, add peace of mind during travel. The lifetime warranty from Eagle Creek is a fantastic benefit, ensuring that you’re covered against manufacturing defects, but it doesn't cover damage from regular wear and tear. This bag is great for those needing a spacious, flexible, and water-repellent option for travel. It's well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts and frequent travelers but might not cater as well to those who prefer highly organized packing solutions.

Rating
9.3
Material
Size and Capacity
Weight

Most important from
679 reviews

Material
This bag is as beautiful as it is sturdy and well-constructed, suitable for both men and women.
Size and Capacity
Ample space for a 12-day journey, and it folds down into a compact carry case for storage.
Weight
Folds up into a small package, very lightweight, making it easy to travel with.
Wheels and Handles
The big, treaded wheels are designed to fit perfectly into the structure of the bag.

Buying Guide for the Best Soft Suitcases

When it comes to picking the right soft suitcase, it's important to consider a few key factors that will ensure you get the best fit for your travel needs. Soft suitcases are known for their flexibility, lightweight nature, and ease of storage. They are ideal for travelers who need a bit of give in their luggage to fit into tight spaces or who prefer a lighter option. To make an informed decision, you should look at several key specifications and understand how they align with your travel habits and preferences.
MaterialThe material of a soft suitcase is crucial as it determines durability, weight, and water resistance. Common materials include nylon, polyester, and canvas. Nylon is known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear, making it a good choice for frequent travelers. Polyester is lighter and often more affordable, suitable for occasional trips. Canvas offers a classic look and is quite durable but can be heavier. Choose a material based on how often you travel and the conditions your suitcase will face.
Size and CapacitySize and capacity are important to ensure your suitcase meets your packing needs and airline regulations. Soft suitcases come in various sizes, typically measured in liters or cubic inches. Small carry-on sizes (up to 40 liters) are perfect for short trips or as an additional bag. Medium sizes (40-70 liters) are great for week-long vacations, while large sizes (70+ liters) are ideal for extended travel. Consider the length of your trips and how much you typically pack to choose the right size.
WeightThe weight of the suitcase itself can impact your overall luggage weight, which is important for airline restrictions and ease of transport. Lightweight suitcases (under 5 pounds) are easier to carry and maneuver, making them ideal for those who prioritize mobility. Medium-weight suitcases (5-8 pounds) offer a balance between durability and ease of use. Heavier suitcases (over 8 pounds) may provide more features and sturdiness but can be cumbersome. Think about how much you can comfortably carry and any weight limits you need to adhere to.
Wheels and HandlesWheels and handles affect the maneuverability and convenience of your suitcase. Two-wheel designs are more stable on uneven surfaces and are often lighter, suitable for those who travel in varied environments. Four-wheel (spinner) designs offer 360-degree movement, making them easier to navigate through airports and smooth surfaces. Handles should be sturdy and comfortable, with telescoping options for adjustable height. Consider where you'll be using your suitcase most and your preference for ease of movement.
Compartments and OrganizationThe internal and external compartments of a suitcase help with organization and accessibility. Look for suitcases with multiple pockets and dividers if you like to keep your items separated and easily accessible. Some suitcases offer expandable compartments for extra packing space when needed. If you prefer a minimalist approach, a suitcase with fewer compartments might be more suitable. Think about how you like to pack and what items you typically carry to determine the best organizational features for you.
Security FeaturesSecurity features such as lockable zippers, built-in TSA-approved locks, and anti-theft materials can provide peace of mind while traveling. Lockable zippers and TSA-approved locks are essential for air travel, as they allow security personnel to inspect your luggage without damaging it. Anti-theft materials and designs can deter theft and protect your belongings. If you often travel to areas where security is a concern, prioritize suitcases with robust security features.
ExpandabilityExpandability refers to the ability of a suitcase to increase its capacity, usually through a zippered expansion panel. This feature is useful for travelers who may need extra space for souvenirs or additional items on their return trip. If you often find yourself needing more room than you initially packed for, an expandable suitcase can be a great option. Consider how often you bring back more than you take and whether this feature would be beneficial for your travel style.

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