On our last family trip, we tried something new: everyone brought their own suitcase—my 5-year-old and 9-year-old included. They proudly rolled their bags through the airport, took full ownership of their things, and I realized this might just be the only way we’ll travel from now on. Everyone is responsible for their own items, a little independence, and a lot less stress for me.
My kids’ luggage was easily one of the best purchases we made before our trip. Now that they can carry their own essentials, having the right suitcase makes all the difference. My youngest is still very much into characters, but my oldest wanted something more mature-looking. And it made sense to invest differently for each of my kids. That’s why this post focuses on the best luggage not only for your budget but also for your child’s age. So you can find something that will work short-term for littles and something a bit more substantial for older kids, allowing them to grow with their suitcase.
Luckily, there are plenty of options that fit both needs and budget, and also spark a little excitement for the kids to use their own “big kid” suitcase. Whether you’re new to traveling with little ones or a pro-on-the-go, the right luggage can make trips smoother and more fun. Here are some of our favorite kid suitcases by age, plus a few travel accessories to make your next trip a breeze.
Editor’s Note: Each airline has its own unique set of rules for carry-ons, in-flight accessories, and safety practices. Before purchasing, make sure to consult your airline in advance.
You May Also Like:
- Our Cofounder’s Honest Review of the Stokke JetKids Bedbox Suitcase
- 7 Hotel Hacks for Traveling With Kids From a Travel Writer
Best Luggage for Kids (3-5 years old)
Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, this soft-sided backpack can be worn or wheeled.
Another great toddler option, this lightweight two-piece luggage set comes with a hard-sided wheeled suitcase and backpack.
11 patterns available
This carry on suitcase is the best of both worlds. It meets all the airline requirements to be brought on the plane while also having a spot for little ones to rest their legs.
4 patterns available
Sized to be the perfect height for little travelers, this Stephen Joseph suitcase has a large main compartment and tons of small pockets for their passport, snacks, and more.
12 patterns available
With 360 degree spin wheels, your little one will love traversing the airport with this bag by their side. The rubber handle is also made for kiddos to easily grip and hold onto.
4 patterns available
This luggage set is lightweight yet durable, made to withstand the ups and downs of traveling with kids. It even comes with a lunch bag and neck pillow!
13 patterns available
With a hardshell design and 360 degree spinner wheels, this suitcase is both durable and easy for a little one to move through an airport or hotel.
2 patterns available
Got a Disney lover in the family? This colorful rolling suitcase comes decorated with your kiddos’ favorite Disney icon, with tons of space for clothes, shoes, and everything else they’ll need for vacation.
8 patterns available
This travel bundle includes a colorful backpack for all your kiddos on-flight toys and snacks, as well as a toiletry bag for all the wipes and hand sanitizer you’ll need.
Built for safety (as well as TSA approval), this hardshell scooter-luggage hybrid will make long travel days more bearable for both child and parent.
Best Luggage for Kids (5-8 years old)
With a tote bag and rolling bag, this 2-piece set is compatible with airline sizing and is the only travel companion your little one will need.
40+ patterns available
This rolling suitcase has a bold, standout design that will make your little ones feel special even during a long day spent at the airport.
14 patterns available
With pockets for shoes and toiletries, as well as a drawstring bag for the plane, this boldly colored rolling bag is perfect for your little traveler.
7 colors available
This set includes a rolling bag, backpack, lunch box, pencil case, and neck pillow—everything your kiddo will need to survive a long travel day.
14 patterns available
Best Luggage for Kids (9-13 years old)
For the young traveler who likes to keep things light, this suitcase is ideal. It has multiple interior pockets and a TSA-approved lock.
14 colors available
Perfect for that quick weekend getaway, this compact carry on will fit nicely in even the smallest overhead bins.
7 colors available
With a dividing zipper and compression straps for a full journey’s packing, this suitcase is perfect for the teen who’s prone to overpacking. Its 360 degree spinning wheels make it easy on the wrist.
9 colors available
With double spinner wheels and multiple mesh pockets, this stylish bag will be your teen or tween’s favorite travel companion. Its sizing is compatible with all major airline’s luggage requirements.
25+ colors available
This suitcase includes a spot for your teen or tween’s most treasured possession—their phone. It also includes a cup holder and a spot for a charger! What more could they need for a travel day?
8 colors available
More Travel with Kids Accessories We Love
For parents on the go, this suitcase with a built in seat. Its sleek, hard-shell exterior is simple and durable—just what a busy family needs.
2 colors available
This play set includes 46 magnetic tiles that pack easily for play-on-the-go (or on a plane). They all fit in one sleek metal case that can easily be stored in a backpack or carry-on suitcase.
This soft, memory foam neck pillow comes with a matching eye mask so that your little one can get all the rest they need on a plane, in the car, or wherever they are!
20+ colors available
Memories of travel when you’re little are precious—so help your kiddos remember each and every moment. This journal can hold their packing lists, daily diaries, or whatever else they’d like.
Sometimes, a long plane ride means screens—and that’s okay. These headphones are sized for kids and built to capture audio at a volume safe for little ears.
11 colors available
A compact, foldable travel potty seat with a non‑slip base and handles that fits most toilets and includes a travel bag to make potty training on the go easier and more hygienic for toddlers.
Why You Can Count on Us
The Everygirl Media Group has brought valuable content to our readers for 12+ years. In 2018, The Everymom set out to ensure that all moms know they’re not alone. If you find yourself seeking advice on how to style the latest fashion trend or searching for the best kid-friendly coffee table, we have the answers. And if you’re wondering what’s actually worth it from a sale or looking for a review of the hottest new kids’ product, we’ve got that covered too. From our annual Registry Awards and beloved holiday gift guides to the shopping round-ups you find on our site every day, The Everymom commerce team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.
Alina Orozco, Commerce Editor
Alina Orozco is the Commerce Editor at The Everymom, where she combines her editorial experience with a love for finding products that make everyday life easier, and more stylish. To The Everymom, Alina brings over 10+ years of editorial publishing and digital storytelling experience as well as snippets of her real life mom style, making fashion trends accessible and fun for every mom. She now lives in a cozy beach town in Southern California with her husband and their two boys, but she’ll always be a Philly girl at heart.
Products included in graphics linked within article.
The post Top-Rated Luggage for Kids at Every Age appeared first on The Everymom.
Source link: https://theeverymom.com/best-luggage-for-kids/ by Melissa Guida-Richards at theeverymom.com