Coordinating Luggage Sets Starting at Under $100

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

Instead of lugging around a hodgepodge of pieces, consider a luggage set. There's nothing more chic and put-together looking than traveling with a coordinating set of suitcases. And if you're vacationing as a couple or with family, opting for a matching set is a great way to keep track of everyone's bags in transit.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we test all kinds of luggage from popular brands, including hardside suitcases, softside luggage, carry-ons and checked suitcases. We assess the luggage in our Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab and share it with consumer testers who use it in their real lives. In recent years, we've tested suitcases from more than 80 brands to find the luggage sets that not only look great and function like a dream, but also hold up to frequent use to really be worth the investment.

Freeform Hardside Expandable Luggage

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-in. and 28-in. suitcases | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R88e4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe

Samsonite consistently stands out in our Lab evaluations and has wowed our consumer testers. This luggage set includes two of our top-tested suitcases from the brand's Freeform collection — the smaller 21-inch carry-on model and the larger 28-inch checked bag. These suitcases are made of durable hardside material that performed well in our drop tests, resisting major damage after being released repeatedly at different angles from a set 3-foot height.

When we packed the suitcases with a standard load of items like clothing, shoes and accessories, we were impressed by how well everything fit inside with room to spare — even without having to use the 2-inch expansion system. One caveat: Some of our testers noted that the carrying handles on suitcases in this collection felt a bit tight, which made it more difficult to lift or lower the bags. However, the telescopic handles received higher scores for feeling sturdy and comfortable to use.

Testers also appreciated how fluid the zippers are and how easily the suitcases navigated around twists and turns. They also said the 360-degree spinner wheels were nice and smooth.

RELATED: The Best Samsonite Luggage Pieces

Samsonite

$240.00 at amazon.com

Good Housekeeping/Philip Friedman

Fieldbrook XLT Softside Upright Luggage

Pieces: 3 | Sizes: 21-in. and 25-in. suitcases, 10-in. personal item | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R8je4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe

At less than $100 for three pieces, this basic American Tourister trio is an absolute steal and one of the best affordable luggage sets out there. While the softside carry-on, checked bag and personal item may be fairly simple in design, they're still full of practical features that make traveling easier, like plenty of external pockets, interior mesh pockets and compression straps to secure your belongings.

The brand's bags aren't as durable as others we've tested in the Lab, so I recommend this set for someone who isn't planning to fly frequently. According to one GH analyst who has used this set for nearly a decade, the softside polyester material is slightly worn with some fraying and scuffs, but the bags are still useable, and the important features, like the telescopic handles and zippers, are in working condition.

When we evaluated other suitcases from American Tourister, testers highlighted the smooth and stable wheels, meanwhile online reviewers said they roll nicely, despite only moving forward and backward.

RELATED: The Best Luggage Brands

American Tourister

$93.86 at amazon.com

Philip Friedman - Hearst Owned

Platinum Elite First Class Luggage Set

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-in. and 25-in. suitcases | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 100 days, any reason

AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R8ue4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe

Originally designed by a pilot for other pilots who are always on the go, Travelpro's luggage is the perfect pick for the frequent flyer, and I'm particularly impressed by the brand's Platinum Elite collection. The softside suitcases were some of the top performers in our durability tests, withstanding repeated dropping without dents or damage. The nylon material resisted signs of wear after being rubbed back and forth with our abrasion tester. They are heavier than many of the other bags we tested, but they are durable bags built to last.

The suitcases are thoughtfully designed with a tapered expansion system that prevents the bags from tipping over when full. Self-aligning spinner wheels let you push and pull in all directions, and cushioned handles with contoured grips add a comfortable feel. Plus, they're packed full of extras inside like expandable garment bags, toiletries bags and hidden USB ports to charge electronic devices (power bank not included).

Our testers gave luggage in this collection high scores for ease of use and highlighted the sturdiness of the telescopic handle. If you're nervous about committing to the high price tag, the brand offers a 100-day return policy, even for used suitcases.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Travelpro Platinum Elite Collection

Travelpro

$735.98 at travelpro.com

Good Housekeeping/Philip Friedman

2-Piece Set Hardside Spinner

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 20-in. and 28-in. suitcases | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R99e4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe

Not only does this two-piece luggage set from Amazon Basics have thousands of five-star reviews, but it also earned high scores in our Lab evaluations and was loved by our testers. The carry-on and checked suitcase both unfold into two main packing compartments, one with compression straps to keep your belongings in place and another with a full zippered panel for even more security. When we packed the carry-on bag in the Lab, we fit an entire weekend's worth of gear including clothing, shoes and toiletries with room to spare. Plus, both of the suitcases expand for even more space.

The hardside suitcases are made of lightweight ABS plastic that keeps the price low, though it wasn't as scratch-resistant as some other suitcases we tested. It did hold up well in our drop tests though, with no serious denting or breakage after being released repeatedly from a set 3-foot height. When testers rolled the suitcases through our luggage obstacle course, around turns and over different surfaces from wood to carpeting, they were impressed by the maneuverability and wheel performance.

Amazon Basics

$143.75 at amazon.com

Philip Friedman - Hearst Owned

Ambeur 2-Piece Luggage Set

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-in. and 29.5-in. suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate and ABS composite | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R9ie4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe

For luggage that looks as great as it performs, I recommend Calpak's Ambeur two-piece luggage set, which offers the best of fashion and function. Available in seven fun metallic shades that are sure to stand out at baggage claim, the bags are made of a composite of polycarbonate and ABS plastic that aced our Lab tests for durability. They also proved water-resistant in our evaluations, but did show noticeable markings after we dragged a wire across the surface during our scratch-resistance tests.

The bags are GH-tester favorites and earned top marks for their performance in our luggage obstacle course, which had testers pull the suitcases over different surfaces and around sharp turns. Testers especially loved the sturdy, easy-to-use telescopic handle. When we assessed the suitcases in the Lab, we were impressed by the zippers that opened and closed with ease.

The spacious interior compartments were able to hold our entire packing load of items including clothing, shoes and toiletries. Both the carry-on and checked bag are expandable and equipped with zippered organizational pockets, compression straps and a removable toiletries bag. For even more organization, you can try Calpak's top-tested packing cubes too.

Calpak

$394.99 at calpaktravel.com

Philip Friedman

For Your Special Someone Luggage Set

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 22-in. and 26.5-in. suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R9se4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe

Designed with simplicity in mind, this two-piece set from luggage brand Monos has a sleek, modern look that our testers loved. Both of the bags opened to reveal two spacious compartments that were able to fit our entire load of items in our packing tests. The carry-on bag features an adjustable compression panel, while the larger checked bag is equipped with compression straps and a larger fabric panel to keep everything in place. What's more, there are plenty of organizational mesh pockets inside the bags, along with additional shoe bags and a laundry bag to separate your dirty clothes.

During Lab evaluations, the durable carry-on and checked suitcase resisted major denting and damage in our drop tests. Both we and our consumer testers noticed prominent scuffing on the suitcases after use, but the brand provides a sponge for cleaning. One GH analyst said the sponge removed most of the marks on her bag.

In our luggage obstacle course, testers appreciated the smooth gliding wheels and appreciated how effortless it was to maneuver the bags around twists and turns. They also noticed how well the telescopic handles locked into place at four different heights for easy toting.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Monos Luggage

Monos

$520.00 at monos.com

Philip Friedman

Set of 2 Classic

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21.7-in. and 29-in. suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

AdvertisementAdvertisement#«Ra7e4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe

Popular luggage brand Away carries sets of its best-selling carry-on and large checked bag for a better value. Shoppers can combine any luggage pieces and snag $50 off the two luggage pieces or $100 off three.

The hardside suitcases are loved by testers who highlighted the streamlined look and the spacious, well-organized interior. The bags open into two separate packing compartments with zippered mesh panels and pockets for additional space.

There's also an adjustable compression panel inside each bag so you can really stuff it full if you're an over-packer like me. When we packed the bags in the Lab, we appreciated how smoothly the zippers opened and closed and how much we could fit inside.

The polycarbonate material is super lightweight and ultra durable. It performed well in our drop tests, remaining in great condition after being released multiple times from a set 3-foot height. In our scratch tests, the bags showed minimal scuffs and markings.

AdvertisementAdvertisement#«Race4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe

The bags received high scores for their maneuverability and smooth wheels. One caveat: Our consumer testers gave the telescopic handle lower ratings for feeling a bit wobbly when fully extended. If you want to add a personal touch to your luggage set, Away offers monograms of up to three letters for an added fee.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Away Luggage

Away

at awaytravel.com

Good Housekeeping/Philip Friedman

Luggage Set of Two

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: Varies by selection | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No

If you're on Instagram or TikTok, chances are that you've come across viral luggage brand Béis. Actress Shay Mitchell's trendsetting travel brand offers carry-ons, checked bags, weekender bags and more — all thoughtfully designed, with mix-and-match sets. You can get 10% off your purchase of any roller bag and weekender bag set.

AdvertisementAdvertisement#«Rame4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe

The suitcases feature details like cushy padded telescopic handles, a retractable strap to hold a small bag or your travel blanket and a built-in weight indicator to let you know if your bag exceeds 50 pounds. I'm especially a fan of the chic monochromatic color options — even the metal of the telescopic handle matches.

When we tested the brand's suitcases in the Textiles Lab, my fellow GH analysts and I were impressed by how well the luggage withstood dents and damage after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. We did note that the material was more prone to scratches and scuffs than other luggage we tested.

The suitcases open butterfly style, exposing a spacious zippered compartment and a compartment with a secure compression strap. A few smaller pockets help keep your things organized. You can choose which pieces to include in your luggage set, so the price and number of pieces vary depending on your selections.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Béis Luggage

Béis

$108.00 at beistravel.com

Philip Friedman

Classic Plus Set

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21.5-inch and 30.25-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No

July's suitcases, named after the most popular month for traveling, are exceptionally designed for the accessible price point, and the Australian-based company is increasingly becoming one of the most sought-after luggage brands online. GH analyst Grace Wu says it lives up to the hype: "It might just be the best luggage I've ever owned."

The bags have a simple yet sleek appearance, complete with aluminum corners that elevate otherwise minimalist suitcases. The telescopic handle stops at 20 different heights, so it will stop without falling down immediately, but won't fully lock in until lifted to half its full height. It's also slightly slanted, which the brand says offers better ergonomics. While wheeling the luggage through our in-Lab obstacle course, some users liked this design feature and others found it a bit awkward.

What really impressed us was the maneuverability. During in-Lab testing, participants in our obstacle course gave July bags some of the highest scores for ease of use, particularly for their smooth, 360-degree wheels and adjustable handle. These suitcases performed extremely well in durability tests too, particularly impact resistance. It didn't earn the best scratch resistance scores, though.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: July Luggage

July

$625.00 at july.com

How we test the best luggage

At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we test all kinds of luggage to determine which pieces are worth buying. We evaluate luggage in the Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab and share it with consumer testers who bring the luggage on their own trips and then provide us with valuable feedback. Here's what we look for when we test suitcases:

Size and weight: To ensure that the brands' listed dimensions for the suitcases are accurate, we measure each bag in the Lab. We weigh the bags and place carry-ons in a 22" x 14" x 9" area to make sure the suitcases meet most airline restrictions.

Hearst Owned

Ease of use: We test the luggage to determine how easy it is to open and close zippers and built-in locks, raise and lower the telescopic handles, roll the wheels, grab the carrying handles and more. We then rate and score the luggage for overall ease of use.

LEXIE SACHS

Packing: We fill each piece of luggage with a standard load of items like clothing, shoes, accessories and toiletries (pictured) to test the capacity. For larger checked bags, we pack them with a week's worth of items. For carry-on bags, we add a weekend trip's worth of items. We then score each suitcase on how much it's able to hold.

Jillian Sollazzo

Drop testing: We fill the suitcases with a standard amount of weight and then load them into our drop tester (pictured). We then release the luggage from a set 3-foot height and repeatedly drop the luggage from different angles, evaluating each piece for any dents, damages or scuffs.

Jillian Sollazzo

Abrasion resistance: We cut a piece of material from softside luggage and place it into our abrasion machine, which rubs the fabric back and forth 15,000 times to simulate long-term use. Once the test is done, we remove the fabric and rate how well it held up, noting any signs of wear or fraying.

LEXIE SACHS

Consumer testing: Most importantly, we share the suitcases with our consumer testers. We set up a luggage obstacle course where testers roll the suitcases around twists and turns and pull the bags over different surfaces like carpeting, tile and wood. Testers also use the carrying handles to lift and lower the luggage onto or from elevated surfaces.

We send suitcases to testers who use the bags on their own vacations and provide us with valuable feedback about how much they could pack, how easy the bags were to use, their thoughts on appearance, how the bags performed and more.

Philip Friedman

What to look for when shopping for the best luggage set

Here are a few helpful tips for picking out a new luggage travel set:

✔️ Pieces: Most luggage sets come with two or three pieces, including a carry-on bag and at least one checked bag. If you regularly travel on long trips or are packing for more than one person, opt for a larger set. I have two suitcases — a large checked bag and a carry-on — and find them to be enough to hold everything I need for my travels. Some brands offer greater discounts when you purchase more pieces, which can make it worth it to buy a full matching set.

✔️ Wheels: Luggage with four 360-degree spinner wheels tends to perform better in our tests. You can easily push, pull and move the bags in all directions and still tilt the bags back if you prefer to pull them behind you. Luggage with just two wheels must be tilted to roll, and you can only move the bags forward and backward instead of side to side.

✔️ Telescopic handle: If you have the chance to check out the luggage in person, we recommend raising and lowering the handle several times to determine how comfortable it is to use and grip. A sturdy handle can make a big difference when you're pulling a full suitcase through the airport.

✔️ Side handles: You'll use the side handles to raise and lower the suitcase into an overhead bin or pick it up from baggage claim, so it's a good idea to make sure the handles aren't too tight and feel comfortable to use.

✔️ Compartments: Consider whether you prefer the suitcase's interior to be a big open space that can hold larger items or if you prefer two smaller compartments for better organization. Most suitcases are equipped with additional zippered pockets, compression straps and/or removable shoe or laundry bags. Some bags are also designed with exterior pockets for easy access to travel essentials like your keys and ID.

✔️ Zippers: Because zippers can be finicky, it's a good idea to zip and unzip the bag multiple times to make sure they glide easily and don't get stuck.

✔️ Warranties and returns: Luggage warranties often only cover manufacturer defects and can be difficult to prove. We suggest reviewing the brand's return and exchange policy. There are plenty of luggage brands that offer extended trial periods that will allow you to test the luggage at home or, in some cases, take it on a trip, before deciding if it's right for you.

Hearst Owned

What's better: Hard or soft luggage?

We've tested plenty of hardside and softside luggage and have had top performers in each category. Each type has its perks and disadvantages.

Hardside luggage: Hardshell suitcases are protective, streamlined and lightweight. Not all hard shell suitcases are the same, though. Here are some of the most common hardside materials:

Polycarbonate: This is the most popular hardside option. It's lightweight compared to metal and more durable than plastic. The material has high impact resistance, which means it's durable when dropped, but it does have lower resistance to scratches and scuffs.

ABS: A more affordable option, ABS is a plastic material that's lighter than polycarbonate but less durable and more prone to scratching.

Polycarbonate & ABS composite: Suitcases made with a blend of polycarbonate and ABS give you the benefits of both materials, but it's still not quite as durable as 100% polycarbonate. These suitcases typically have an ABS shell with a polycarbonate coating.

Polypropylene is another type of plastic that's not only lighter than ABS plastic but also stronger. It's fairly affordable as well.

Softside luggage: Fabric-based suitcases are more forgiving when it's time to store them, and they give you a bit more leeway to stuff them full of belongings. They also don't typically show major signs of wear or scratching.

Nylon: This is the most common material for a softside suitcase. It's a durable synthetic fiber that's able to withstand abrasion and is a great option for frequent flyers who are rough on their bags.

Polyester: Another synthetic fiber, polyester is usually less expensive than nylon and is lighter in weight but less durable. That said, we've tested some polyester suitcases that have proven to be abrasion resistant.

Hearst Owned

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Amanda Constantine joined the Good Housekeeping Institute in 2022 as a home and apparel reviews analyst. She has tested all kinds of luggage in the Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab and has covered carry-on bags, checked suitcases, hardside luggage, softside luggage, kids' luggage and the best luggage on Amazon. Constantine used her relative expertise and referred to former luggage testing data when choosing the best luggage sets.

Hearst Owned

You Might Also Like

67 Best Gifts for Women That'll Make Her Smile

The Best Pillows for Every Type of Sleeper