Booked your air tickets and all ready to jet off to your dream destination? Don’t forget to arm yourself with a sturdy piece of luggage to travel with! You’ll need one that is durable enough to brave through tosses and throws through the baggage-claim carousel, spacious enough for your travel essentials (and loots), and secure enough in case it gets lost in foreign land. To help you find the right one, here’s a guide on how to choose a luggage and our recommendations on the best luggage options in Singapore.
Our Recommendations
What to consider when choosing a luggage?
From brutal baggage handlers to rugged terrains, your luggage goes through a lot. To ensure it doesn’t fall apart after years of storage or worse, splitting into half upon landing in a foreign country, it’s worth investing in a quality one that can withstand heavy physical demands. From types of luggage to what kind of wheels to choose, here’s what you should look out for when buying one.
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Size & weight
Majority of the luggage options on the market make the cut for the size limitations for international travel. That said, we recommend sizing down as much as possible when you’re buying a luggage bag for a vacation, as a smaller luggage helps you to avoid overpacking or exceeding weight limits. In that vein, weight is another important factor to look out for. Lightweight luggage options allow you to pack more without compromising on baggage fees — a benefit many Singapore dwellers would greatly appreciate.
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Type of luggage & material
There are two main types of luggage – hard case and soft case. While soft case luggage tends to offer more flexibility for expansion (although some hard case luggage offers this too), hard case luggage helps to limit your packing. Hardside bags also tend to be more waterproof and weather-resistant, while soft case luggage are more prone to stains. Both come with its set of pros and cons, so it all comes down to your specific needs and preferences. For which material to choose, refer to the table below!
| Material | Pros | Cons |
| Polypropylene (hard) | Affordable, lightweight, flexible, crack-resistant | Slightly heavier |
| Polycarbonate (hard) | Crack-resistant, lightweight, flexible | Relatively pricey |
| ABS (hard) | Affordable, lightweight | Not crack-resistant |
| Aluminium | Durable, scratch and dent-resistant | Heavy |
| Polyester | Affordable, lightweight, flexible | Not as durable |
| Nylon | Lightweight, weather resistant, durable | More expensive than polyester |
| Leather | Durable, waterproof | Expensive, heavy |
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Handles
Handles will come in handy for easy handling of your luggage. This is especially so when you come to situations where you need to hand carry your luggage (such as going up a stairs) instead of rolling it on the ground. Whatever type of luggage you choose, you’ll want at least two handles – one on the top and one on the side – in order to lift it without breaking a sweat.
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Security
Don’t let your guards down – be sure to lock your luggage before checking it in, in case it falls to the hands of another! You can buy a luggage lock, but the best luggage options in Singapore come with combination locks, or even better, TSA locks which are highly recommended for those travelling to the US. This is because TSA locks have a universal master key, so airline personnel can open your baggage up to check its content without damaging it. Apart from locks, also look out for double coiled zips which are not easily hacked.
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Wheels
For smooth maneuvering, get four-wheeled luggage (often named as spinners) which are highly versatile. You don’t have to tilt it to an angle and pull, but simply drag it parallel to the ground. However, these wheels do take up space. If you’re travelling via bus or trains and want to avoid not being able to fit your bag in overhead luggage bins, you can opt for luggage with recessed wheels.
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Storage
Ultimately, your luggage is going to be your portable wardrobe and storage box as you travel. Internal storage compartments will make packing a lot easier. The best luggage options in Singapore come with dedicated compartments for your garments, which keep them from creasing. External storage compartments also come in handy if you want easy access to important items. These are more common in soft case luggage options.
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Colour
When it comes to luggage colour, it is not all about aesthetics. Bright colours are easier to spot and harder to get mixed up with other luggage. On the other hand, black or dark coloured luggage has its advantages too. As checked baggage often gets tossed around without mercy, it’s inevitable for them to sustain scratches and damages – which tend to be less noticeable on dark coloured luggage. Plus, you can still adorn them with luggage covers and luggage stickers to make them stand out in the crowd!
Best hard case luggage in Singapore
1. American Tourister Curio Spinner 68/25
With its remarkable history within the luggage industry, American Tourister is definitely one of the best luggage brands to get in Singapore. Case in point: the ultramarine American Tourister Curio Spinner 68/25 (available on American Tourister Official Store) — a quirky option guaranteed to complement your airport fit! Aesthetics aside, this bad boy matches beauty with brains with its well-designed features. Despite being a hard case luggage, it offers the flexibility of a soft-shelled luggage thanks to its volume split capability which allows for approximately 15% more space. (Trust us, you’ll need that extra space when you’re flying back from your Hokkaido trip!) For extra security, this American Tourister Curio luggage is equipped with a security zipper that is double-coiled and not easily broken into!
2. Pierre Cardin Expandable Hardside Spinner Trolley
If you’re looking for a piece of luggage that’s chic and elegant, this Pierre Cardin Expandable Hardside Spinner Trolley (available on Travelite Official Store) fits right in the bill! Coming in under $200, this Pierre Cardin luggage gives you the best bang for your buck. Made with polycarbonate, the luggage provides a durable cocoon for all of your travel essentials. Worried about your luggage falling apart after a few uses? Fret not! This handy baggage also comes with a five years local warranty, providing users with added protection and assurance. This is definitely one of the best luggage you can get in Singapore to get quality products in one shot!
3. Urbanlite Rubik Luggage
We can’t write a list about the best luggage in Singapore without mentioning the brand Urbanlite. A branch of Universal Traveller, Urbanlite specialises in producing premium and reliable hard case luggage. And among the options available, the Urbanlite RUBIK Luggage (available on Universal Traveller Official Store) is definitely one to shell out for! This Urbanlite RUBIK luggage is equipped with four fully-revolving twin wheels and carry handles on both the top and the side. How nifty is that!
4. Moda Paolo Hard Case Luggage
The Moda Paolo Hard Case Luggage (available on Moda Paolo Official Store) is another affordable option that you can consider if you want to stretch your dollar. It comes with essentials like a TSA lock for security, and has a well-equipped internal storage that includes an X band that keeps things in place. It also comes with handles that are padded for extra comfort – this definitely helps when you have to carry it up or down the stairs! This cheap luggage in Singapore has also received glowing reviews from users – a testament of its functionality.
5. Urbanlite Ledge Luggage
When you’re trying to get from point A to point B while dragging a luggage, you’ll come to realise just how important quality wheels are. The Urbanlite Ledge Luggage (available on Universal Traveller Official Store) has 360-degree spinner wheels that not only allow for fluid motion, but also ensure that the weight of the luggage is evenly spread and ensures silent manoeuvring. Apart from wheels, the trolley handle system also makes a difference. The Urbanlite Ledge makes things breezy with multiple locking heights, so you can adjust it to the most comfortable position. That’s why it proves to be a worthy contender for the best luggage in Singapore.
6. Delsey Promenade Luggage
The Delsey Promenade Double Wheels Expandable Trolley Case (available on Delsey Singapore Official Store) screams vacation vibes and we’re totally into it. Sporting a unique aesthetic with its brown stripe detail made of vegan leather, this Delsey luggage is definitely one of the best luggage in Singapore that you’ll want to take #OOTD pics with at the airport. It is also equipped with silent double wheels that don’t cause a ruckus. What’s more, it is also expandable to accommodate your additional travel loots!
7. Echolac Celestra Luggage
Given how hard it is to spot your luggage amongst the sea of dark-coloured ones, you will certainly appreciate your luggage to stand out from the rest. Made by Echolac, one of the best luggage brands in Singapore, the baby-blue Echolac Celestra (available on The Planet Traveller Official Store) will catch your eye when it makes its appearance on the belt! Within the Echolac luggage also lies a series of compartments — helping you to keep your items organised and easily accessible. To top it off, the dual wheel system also helps to ensure a smooth journey!
8. Wenger Legacy Expandable Hardcase Trolley
Looking for reliable hard case luggage that won’t break the bank? The Wenger Legacy Expandable Hardcase Trolley (available on Travelite Official Store) is one of the best luggage in Singapore to consider. Designed by the Swiss brand, Wenger, you can expect high-quality material and workmanship from this hard-case Wenger luggage. It boasts a tough-as-nails ABS-polycarbonate shell to protect all your souvenirs from knocks and bumps!
Worried this hardcase luggage won’t be roomy enough for all your holiday spoils? Fret not, because the Wenger Legacy Expandable Hardcase Trolley can be expanded, and it even comes in three sizes – 22 inch, 26 inch, and 30 inch! No matter the size you need, this is the perfect companion for your Bangkok shopping sprees!
9. MUJI Hard Carry-On Luggage
When talking about having the best minimalistic designs, one of the first brands in Singapore that comes to mind is definitely MUJI. The MUJI Hard Carry-On Luggage (available on MUJI Official Store) comes in sizes from 20L to a whopping 105L. Like all MUJI products, this luggage follows the Japanese brand’s simple, aesthetically-pleasing design principles. Looks aren’t all there is to this luggage, though – it’s equipped with a lightweight yet tough polycarbonate shell. The nifty dual-wheel system and stopper function also makes for smooth-sailing trips both in and out of the airport. It’s no wonder the this MUJI luggage is already considered one of the best hard case luggage in Singapore!
10. American Tourister Twist Waves Spinner Luggage
You would’ve never imagined how light luggage of this size can get! The American Tourister Twist Waves Spinner Luggage (available on American Tourister Official Store) is a game-changer within the market. Behind its ultra-modern glossy shell lies two spacious compartments capable of storing your essentials for an 8-day trip. With a water-repellent zipper, this is also the best lightweight luggage in Singapore for those travelling during winter or the monsoon season! This feature protects your clothes and food from moisture in the air, thereby preventing them from getting mouldy. Certainly, this is a worthwhile investment if you’re looking for a piece of reliable luggage!
Besides Universe Black, this best hard case luggage also comes in a soft Lilac and Vivid Red – perfect for those who want a pop of colour to go along with their travels away from Singapore.
11. Delsey Clavel Trolley Case
Worried about your carbon footprint while travelling? The Delsey Clavel Trolley Case (available on Delsey Singapore Official Store) is your go-to option! Crafted from recycled polypropylene, this luggage offers a viable choice for eco-conscious adventurers as its hard shell design doesn’t compromise on function. It ensures maximum protection and durability and coupled with its expandable feature, you can also effortlessly accommodate all your travel essentials. The lightweight construction and smooth spinner wheels guarantee good manoeuvrability, making your journeys hassle-free. This is definitely the best all-round luggage in terms of durability, functionality and sustainability.
12. Cece Japanese Style Luggage
The Cece Japanese Style Luggage (available on Memeda Store | Carpet & Traveling) is the ultimate all-in-one travel companion! It has everything you need from a portable charging feature, pull-out tray compartment, and shockproof design! Let’s be honest, have you ever seen luggage with an external USB charging jack? Now, you never have to worry about your phone’s battery running out while on the go – you’re also less likely to get stranded in foreign lands. Furthermore, its front compartment opens out like an airplane tray table, so you can easily reach for your documents and electronic devices. You can even prop your phone on it to watch your favourite shows!
Best soft case luggage in Singapore
13. Delsey Montmartre Air Luggage
It can be a hassle to clean a suitcase, but not when it comes with detachable and washable linings. The Delsey Montmartre Air Trolley Case (available on Delsey Singapore Official Store) offers just that – making the cleaning a straightforward affair. Simply detach the lining and toss it in the washing machine! Even without Your travel essentials will be safe and clean, even if you don’t pack them in ziplock bags. The Delsey Montmartre Air luggage is also super lightweight – the 24-inch one only weighs 2.9kg, allowing you to bring more while weighing less. In addition, it has two frontal pockets where you can keep things you need at arm’s reach all the time. Truly a revolutionary product made by one of the best luggage brands in Singapore!
14. American Tourister Maxwell Spinner Luggage
While the American Tourister Maxwell Spinner Luggage (available on American Tourister Official Store) might be unassuming at first glance, it’s actually one of the best soft case luggages to get in Singapore! It sports multiple pockets and compartments, both inside and outside, which allow you to easily organise things without extra storage bags. In fact, the zipper compartments situated at the front are extremely accessible, without needing you to unzip the whole luggage to get something.
This American Tourister Spinner also comes with a 3-year international warranty, so that you don’t have to worry about any wear and tear right after purchase. It can also be expanded up to 2cm – if you tend to shop a ton, we reckon a softside luggage with ample flexibility will be the best for you!
15. Pierre Cardin Expandable Softcase Luggage
Looking for an affordable soft case luggage option in Singapore that still packs a punch in terms of features? One of the best soft case luggage options to consider would be the Pierre Cardin Expandable Softcase Luggage (available on Travelite Official Store)! At less than $200, you get a piece of luggage that’s well-designed in every aspect. For security, you have a TSA combination lock and an anti-theft zipper. For durability, the soft case is lined with nylon fabric, offering your luggage protection against rain and accidental spills. This Pierre Cardin soft case can even be expanded, allowing it to offer more than enough extra room for your bulk buys!
16. 360° 4-Wheel Trolley Backpack
It’s definitely wise to stick to a trusty travel backpack for a budget backpacking trip, but if you want to relieve your shoulders from the weight, consider a 360° 4-Wheel Trolley Backpack (available on GNP Trading), one of the best trolley backpacks in Singapore! This is one of the best types of luggage in Singapore for those who like to travel light. It offers ample volume that’s comparable to the other luggage options on the list, yet comes in the lightest at only 2.5kg.
The rugged trolley backpack is designed for heavy usage, making it suitable for both travels and day-to-day use. It also comes with a convenient water bottle pocket on its side – no more having to open up your entire luggage just for a sip of water! However, it does not come with a built-in lock, so we recommend getting one to keep your belongings safe. If you’re worried about the wheels wearing out with frequent daily use, consider investing in some Swivel Luggage Replacement Wheels (available on Fashion Jewellery). After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
17. Winter Time Sumuzu Soft Trolley Case
While Winter Time is known for its winter wear basics, it’s also a go-to brand for travel essentials. In fact, the Winter Time Sumuzu Soft Trolley Case (available on Winter Time Official Store) is one of the best soft case luggages in Singapore! At 20 inches, this luggage is compact and simple in terms of its features, with an adjustable luggage strap to keep your clothes in place, as well as internal and outer zipped compartments. This is definitely one of the best soft case luggages to get for frequent short-haul business travellers!
Overview of the best luggage options in Singapore
| Luggage | Type | Available size (inch) | Weight (kg) | Lock | Material | Price |
| American Tourister Curio Spinner 68/25 | Hard case | 27 | 3.9 | Recessed TSA combination lock | Polypropylene | $290 |
| Pierre Cardin Expandable Hardside Spinner Trolley | Hard case | 20, 25, 29 | 3.2, 4.1, 5.1 | TSA combination lock | Polycarbonate | $143.20 – $191.20 |
| Urbanlite Rubik | Hard case | 24 | 3 | TSA lock | ABS | $55 |
| Moda Paolo | Hard case | 20, 24, 28 | 3, 3.5, 4.2 | TSA combination lock | ABS | $69.90 – $109.90 |
| Urbanlite Ledge | Hard case | 24 | 3 | Combination lock | ABS | $49 |
| Delsey Promenade | Hard case | 20, 24, 28 | 3.28, 5.02, 5.77 | TSA combination lock | Polycarbonate | $329 – $479 |
| Echolac Celestra | Hard case | 24 | 3.8 | TSA lock | Polycarbonate | $279 |
| Wenger Legacy Expandable Hardcase Trolley | Hard case | 22, 26, 30 | 3.3, 4.5, 5.2 | TSA combination Lock | ABS-Polycarbonate blend | $129 – $169 |
| MUJI Hard Carry-On Luggage | Hard case | 16, 21, 25, 28 | 2.7, 2.9, 4.6, 5.1 | TSA lock | Polycarbonate | $179 – $399 |
| American Tourister Twist Waves Spinner Luggage | Hard case | 20-25 | 2.6 | Detachable TSA lock | Polypropylene | $140 |
| Delsey Clavel Trolley Case | Hard case | 20, 27, 30, 32 | 2.4, 3.5, 3.84, 4.45 | TSA combination lock | Recycled Polypropylene | $239 – $299 |
| Cece Japanese Style Luggage | Hard case | 20, 24, 26 | NA | TSA combination lock | ABS-Polycarbonate blend | $66.53 – $85.43 |
| Delsey Montmartre Air | Soft case | 28 | 4.3 | TSA combination lock | Polyester | $499 |
| American Tourister Maxwell Spinner Luggage | Soft case | 30 | 3.9 | TSA combination lock | Polyester | $189 |
| Pierre Cardin Expandable Softcase Luggage | Soft case | 20, 24, 28 | 2.8, 3.2, 3.8 | TSA combination lock | Nylon | $89 – $109 |
| 360° 4-Wheel Trolley Backpack | Soft case | 20, 24 | 2.5, 3 | None | Nylon | $53.90 – $69.00 |
| Winter Time Sumuzu Soft Trolley Case | Soft case | 20 | 2.3 | TSA combination lock | Nylon | $198 |
How to pack luggage to maximise space?
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Lay it out and edit
Who doesn’t want to look good on a holiday? We know how tempting it is to squeeze your entire wardrobe into your suitcase just so you can have options on the trip. However, that ain’t gonna be a smart move – especially if you’re planning to shop too. So lay out everything you want to bring, and pick out the ones you really need. This helps you to avoid bringing clothes that look similar.
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Roll your clothes to save space
It is highly recommended to roll your clothes up so that they take up less space. You can even secure them with a rubber band so that they don’t open up. This not only maximises space, but also keeps your clothes wrinkle free upon arrival. We also recommend wrapping breakable items like jewellery among your clothes to keep them safe from impact.
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Use packing cubes and compression bags
Trust us, packing cubes make a huge difference in keeping things organised in your luggage. You can store your rolled clothes into them and compartmentalise them however you’d like. Simply maximise each cube and zip it up. If you need more space, lend some help from compression bags which come in especially handy for bulky items like winter clothing. However, we recommend wearing your bulky items first, and using compression bags as a last resort.
Jet off in comfort & style with the best luggage in Singapore
From lightweight luggage to trusty double-wheeled options, we hope that these luggage options will prepare you sufficiently for your upcoming overseas trips! Planning for a road trip to Malaysia? Check out our roundup of the best check-in luggage in Singapore that are great for weekend-long trips. If you’re scooting to a winter wonderland this year-end, check out our winter packing list to stay warm on your adventure!
This article was updated on 3 July 2023. Additional research done by Foo Pei Shi.
