Best Kids' Luggage for Travel and Family Trips

Traveling with children can be chaotic and stressful, be there's something you can buy that will make any family vacation easier: kids' luggage. Giving children their own travel luggage gets them involved in the travel process, boosts their independence, and even makes packing a little more fun.

But it's important to choose the right kids' luggage. The best travel luggage for kids is durable, is appropriately sized, and has child-friendly features like fun designs and smooth wheels.

Here are our picks for the best kids' luggage, plus advice on what to look for in luggage for kids. Find more great travel gear for children, from road trip essentials to top travel games, in our Ultimate Road Trip Guide for Families.

Why Kids' Luggage for Travel is Key

Having their own travel luggage gives kids a sense of responsibility and independence. When they pack their own bags, children learn to make choices about what to bring and how to fit everything inside. This is a valuable life skill that will serve them well in the future.

Having their own luggage also gives kids a sense of accomplishment and ownership. They'll be proud to walk alongside you at the airport, pulling their own little suitcase.

Finally, giving each family member their own piece of luggage helps the whole family stay organized. No more digging through one giant suitcase to find each person's clothing.

Pro tip: Make sure you check kids' bags after they’ve packed them, or they may end up with a zillion stuffed animals and zero pairs of underwear.

What We Look For in The Best Travel Luggage for Kids

When choosing kids' luggage, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, durability is key. Kids are tough on their belongings, so you'll want to choose a suitcase that can withstand being thrown around, dropped, dragged through airports, and jammed in the trunk of a car.

Second, size is important. You'll want to get a suitcase that's big enough to hold all of your child's belongings, but not so big that they can't handle it themselves. A good rule of thumb is to choose a lightweight suitcase that is as small or even smaller than your typical carry-on.

Finally, consider features like fun colors and designs, easy-to-maneuver wheels, and compartments to help kids stay organized.

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The Stephen Joseph soft-sided suitcase is easy for little ones to roll around. Photo courtesy of the Stephen Joseph Store on Amazon

Our Picks For the Best Kids' Luggage

1. Best Overall Soft-Shell Case: Stephen Joseph Classic Rolling Luggage

With a variety of vibrant prints, from transportation to sports to unicorns, this soft-sided suitcase is a playful and affordable option. It boasts a roomy main compartment, a front pocket for smaller items, and easy-to-maneuver wheels.

2. Best Overall Hard-Shell Case: Amazon Basics Geometric Travel Luggage Expandable Suitcase Spinner with Wheels and Built-In TSA Lock

This sturdy suitcase is durable and features spinner wheels for easy maneuvering. It also comes in a variety of fun colors that kids will love, a spacious interior with organizational compartments, a TSA lock for added security, and a comfortable handle system.

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Take this American Tourister to Disney World and beyond! Photo courtesy of the American Tourister Store on Amazon

3. Best Carry-On Kids Luggage: American Tourister Disney Hardside Upright Luggage

This fun suitcase is the perfect carry-on size for kids. It's made from durable polycarbonate and features smooth wheels for easy maneuvering. It also comes in a variety of Disney-character designs, including Mickey or Minnie Mouse, Frozen, and Disney princesses.

4. Best Backpack Suitcase: Rolling Backpack for Kids Suitcase with Wheels

Sure, this travel luggage comes with its own lovie, but you can also use the built-in harness to hold your child’s favorite stuffed friend. That way, they'll always have it with them without having to dig through their bag.

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The JetKids by Stokke is a suitcase and ride-on toy in one! Photo courtesy of the Stokke Store on Amazon

5. Best Ride-in-Style Option: JetKids by Stokke Scoot Suitcase

This innovative suitcase doubles as a ride-on toy, making it a great option for younger kids. It's made from durable polycarbonate and features a comfortable saddle seat. Kids will love riding around the airport on their very own suitcase.

6. Best Budget Pick: Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage

Reviews for this rolling, expandable suitcase mostly mention how heavy-duty it is. Between its durability and its affordable price point, this is a great choice for kids who go hard on their things or really rack up those frequent-flier miles.

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The Trunki ride-on suitcase comes in a variety of fun colors and designs. Photo courtesy of the Trunki Store on Amazon

More Picks For the Best Kids' Luggage

7. Trunki Ride-On Suitcase

For the ultimate in travel fun, consider this playful ride-on suitcase. Kids can pack their belongings inside, then hop on for a ride through the airport terminal. It's luggage that doubles as a toy, making travel time more enjoyable for little ones. It also comes in fun designs like a police car, a pirate ship, and a ladybug.

8. iPlay, iLearn Kids Carry-On Luggage Set

This adorable set includes a hard-shell suitcase and a matching backpack, perfect for keeping kids organized on longer trips. The suitcase features a spacious interior, spinner wheels, and a fun design (choose between dinosaurs, sharks, unicorns, and vehicles), while the backpack is ideal for carrying smaller essentials.

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Photo courtesy of the Rockland Store on Amazon

9. Rockland Jr. Kids' My First Hardside Spinner Luggage

This lightweight, hard-shell suitcase comes in fun shapes that will make packing so much fun for your kids. With easy-roll, 360-degree spin wheels and an adjustable-height pull handle that works for both parents and kids, this pick is a no-brainer.

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Kids can scoot their luggage through the airport with the Lascoota Scooter Suitcase. Photo courtesy of the Lascoota Store on Amazon

10. Lascoota Scooter Suitcase

This foldable scooter with a suitcase attached is perfect for kids who need to get out that excess energy before they get on an airplane. Just have them scoot their way to the gate on this unique piece of travel luggage. It may be one of the best ideas ever!

No matter which option you choose, kids' luggage can be a valuable tool for fostering independence, responsibility, and excitement for travel.  With so many great options available, you're sure to find the perfect suitcase to spark your child's travel spirit for your next family trip.

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