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I’ve rounded up the best rated expandable suitcases on the market, from carry-ons to extra large luggage sizes for all budgets. Find everything from global brand names like Samsonite and American Tourister to lightweight expandable choices.
Best expandable suitcases under £/$200
There are several luggage brands who have 4+ star reviews on Amazon by thousands of buyers (and we all know Amazon reviewers are the harshest critics on the planet). Here are the best rated expandable luggage for each brand.
Best Samsonite expandable luggage
Best American Tourister expandable luggage
Best Amazon Basics expandable luggage
Best Coolife expandable luggage
Best Rocklands expandable luggage
Best expandable suitcases over £/$200
If you can afford to upgrade your luggage, here are the brands I recommend which have added benefits like robust polycarbonate shell and a lifetime warranty.
July
Best value
July is one of my favourite luggage brands for value. The July range is extremely robust, the shell is made from Aerospace-grade German polycarbonate shell which July claim is crushproof, while the checked size has anodised aluminium corner bumpers to protect it from impact. The July carry-on is also the lightest on this list at just 2.2kg. Other unique benefits July offer are Vegan friendly and 100 day returns.
Antler Clifton
Best budget upgrade
Antler have been making luggage for over 100 years. Antler are one of my favourite brands to recommend as a small upgrade from suitcases under £100. You’ll notice an upgrade in quality from the tough exterior shell, to the neat interior organisation, to ow much more smoothly your suitcase rolls. Antler also provide a lifetime warranty which is unusual at this price point.
Away Flex
Best mid priced
Away claim the Flex is Google’s top-searched luggage in 2023. Is an Away suitcase worth £100 more than an Antler Clifton? Little details like interior compression system, leather luggage tag, underside grab handle and hidden laundry bag add up. There are also 2 carry-on sizes available. The Antler Clifton is lighter and holds more capacity however.
Briggs and Riley Baseline
Best for suits and dresses, Largest Expandable
Briggs and Riley have a soft and hard shell option when it comes to expandable luggage. I’ve the Baseline which has the unique feature of built-in garment panels which means you can pack a suits, dresses and dress shirts wrinkle free. Other great features include shock-absorbing wheels, corner guards, portable battery pack easy access, large front pocket and a strap to connect another suitcase for easy manoeuvrability. The Baseline also has the largest capacity expandable suitcase on this list at 167L.
Victorinox Spectra 3.0
Best eco-friendly
Victorinox offer several expandable options, but I’ve chosen the Spectra 3.0 for it’s robust properties using recycled materials. The carry-on is one of a handful of hard shells that have a lockable front laptop compartment while the large size expands by up to 40%.
What to Consider When Buying an Expandable Suitcase
- Size and Capacity:
The primary consideration when purchasing an expandable suitcase is the size and capacity. Assess your typical travel needs to determine the right size for you. Smaller suitcases are ideal for short trips or carry-on luggage, while larger ones are suitable for longer vacations or checked baggage. Make sure the extended capacity meets your requirements without exceeding airline weight restrictions. - Material and Durability:
Opt for a suitcase made from durable materials like polycarbonate, ABS, or high-quality nylon. These materials provide excellent protection for your belongings and can withstand the rigors of travel. Check for reinforced corners and robust zippers to ensure long-lasting durability. - Weight:
Consider the weight of the suitcase, especially if you frequently fly with budget airlines that have strict weight limits for carry-on and checked baggage. Lightweight materials can save you precious weight allowances and prevent unnecessary fees. - Wheels and Mobility:
Look for suitcases with smooth-rolling, multidirectional spinner wheels for easy maneuverability. Four-wheel spinners provide the most stability and allow you to effortlessly navigate through airports and busy terminals. - Expandability Mechanism:
Evaluate the extendable mechanism of the suitcase. Some models have an additional zipper or section that expands to create more packing space, while others may have a soft-sided compartment that can be expanded and secured with straps. Choose a mechanism that is easy to use and provides a secure extension. - Organizational Features:
A well-organized suitcase is essential for efficient packing and unpacking. Look for suitcases with multiple compartments, dividers, and pockets to keep your items neat and easily accessible. A built-in garment sleeve or compression straps can help keep your clothes wrinkle-free during your journey. - Security Features:
Ensure your extendable suitcase has a reliable locking system to protect your belongings. TSA-approved combination locks are preferable, as they allow security personnel to inspect your luggage without damaging the lock. - Design and Aesthetics:
Choose a suitcase design that aligns with your personal style and preferences. Opt for colors and patterns that make your suitcase easily identifiable on luggage carousels, reducing the risk of accidental mix-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
How much additional packing space does an expandable suitcase provide?
The additional packing space varies depending on the suitcase model. On average, an expandable suitcase can provide an extra 20% to 30% of its original capacity when expanded.
Are expandable suitcases suitable for international travel?
Yes, expandable suitcases are suitable for international travel. They offer flexibility for adjusting your packing capacity based on the length of your trip and the items you need to carry.
Didn’t find what you were looking for? See all of our beset suitcase buying guides for more ideas
- Affordable luggage: best suitcase deals | affordable luggage brands
- Carry-on: carry-on luggage with laptop compartments | easyjet cabin bag |
- Checked luggage: checked luggage for international travel | extra large suitcases | expandable suitcases | trunk luggage
- Durable luggage: most durable luggage | zipperless suitcases | aluminium suitcases
- Luggage brands: luxury luggage brands | European luggage brands | eco-friendly suitcases | luggage with lifetime warranty
- Misc luggage: ultra lightweight suitcases | Tripp suitcases | suitcases for cruises | 2 wheel suitcases | rose gold luggage
- Suitcase reviews: Horizn Studios M5 | Level8 Voyageur | Grams(28) 154 City Pack
- Travel accessories: packing cube alternatives | travel accessories for long flights | compression suitcase packing cubes | GPS luggage tracker | passport covers | travel vanity cases | wine suitcases
Last update on 2025-07-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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