Luggage

For 20kg to 23kg of luggage, a medium (60–70L) or large suitcase (90–100L) usually does the trick. The size you need depends on how bulky your items are - lighter things can go in a bigger case without tipping the scales. Look for tough yet light suitcases with smooth, sturdy wheels to make your life easier. And don’t forget to double-check your airline’s luggage rules, as anything over 23kg might cost you extra. Better to be safe than stung at the check-in desk.

The most durable suitcase for frequent travel tends to be made from polycarbonate or aluminium, with reinforced corners and reliable YKK zips. Top-quality models have aircraft-grade wheels and let you replace parts rather than the whole thing. Polycarbonate is often top-rated for impact resistance, so it’s worth the investment. A warranty of 10 years or more usually signals a maker that stands by its kit. We only pick tested and proven designs - see how on our Buy Me Once research process page.

To reset a TSA-approved suitcase lock, start with the current code (often 0-0-0), press the reset button with a pen, set your new code, then release the button. Test it straight away just to be sure. If you’ve forgotten your code, don’t panic - TSA officers can open it using a master key. Check the suitcase brand or lock model for specific instructions, as the reset method can vary a bit. Better than wrestling with your luggage on the floor of Departures, isn’t it?

The best way to pack efficiently for a long trip is to roll clothes tightly, use packing cubes, and stick to a colour palette for easy combinations. Heavy bits should go near the wheels for balance. Tuck a spare bag in for laundry - it’ll keep clean clothes smelling sweeter. For trips over two weeks, factor in a laundry day to shrink your suitcase load and stretch your wardrobe. Smart packing means less faff at the other end.

To clean hard shell suitcases, use a damp cloth and mild soap. For soft-sided ones, go gently with a fabric-safe cleaner and soft brush. Don’t overstuff - zips hate it - and store your bag somewhere dry. Give wheels and handles a once-over occasionally to catch wear early. Lots of high-end luggage comes with long warranties (some up to 10 years), but they’ll only honour them if you treat your kit with care. More tips await on our product care and repair blog collection.

Most airlines allow carry-on cabin luggage up to 55 x 40 x 20cm, but always check your specific airline first - some budget carriers are stricter to the millimetre. That measurement includes wheels and handles, by the way. Some clever cabin cases make the most of every centimetre within those limits, letting you pack more without sized-up fees. A decent cabin bag can really save your bacon on short trips.

The best accessories to travel with keep things tidy, secure, and stress-free. Think sturdy travel pouches, compact laundry bags, refillable toiletry bottles, and a solid power bank. All these bits and bobs can make the difference between breezy travel and a faff-filled faff. Browse our full range in the travel accessories collection - everything is built to last and made for the long haul.

The best way to pack a suit to prevent creasing is to flip the jacket inside out, fold shoulder to shoulder, and roll it gently. Trousers? Fold along the crease and either roll or layer nicely on top. Popping the whole lot in a dry-cleaning bag or a travel folder helps too. Once you arrive, hang everything up straight away and lightly steam if needed. If in doubt, pack a travel-sized iron - or just skip the linen.