Which spinner luggage is best?
If your luggage is too heavy or cumbersome to tote around an airport, it’s time to invest in spinner luggage. Spinner luggage features 360-degree swivel wheels for effortless navigation around busy airport terminals — you can drag it behind you, roll it by your side, or push it in front of you. With adaptability like that, spinner luggage is a smart purchase, no matter your destination. But how do you know which one to choose? Here’s what you need to know.
Considerations when choosing spinner luggage
Size
Because airlines have strict size restrictions for carry-on luggage, most spinners in this category are 22 inches tall or shorter. Size restrictions can vary between airlines, so check their website for the most recent information so you can buy the right one.
Larger spinner luggage used as checked baggage can be anywhere between 24 and 30 inches tall. Going with the largest spinner you find might seem convenient, but depending on the airline, it could result in oversize baggage fees.
Sets vs. single pieces
You can buy spinner luggage individually or as a set with two to four pieces. Of course buying a set is far more cost-effective, but only if you intend to use more than one of them regularly. If you travel alone or only occasionally, buying an individual spinner is a better value.
Soft- vs. hard-sided luggage
Soft-sided spinner luggage is usually made of durable fabric with high tensile strength, such as nylon or Cordura. Despite their tough construction, they can still sustain rips and tears with the rough and tumble of travel.
Hard-sided spinner luggage has a dense plastic, polycarbonate or ABS shell. These are considered far more durable, not to mention much easier to clean. There are lightweight varieties, but some of them can be a bit too flimsy for heavy handling.
Spinner luggage features
Expandability
Expandability is an attractive feature in spinner luggage if you need extra room when packing — or you come home with more souvenirs than expected. Unzipping the hidden compartment can add between 1 and 4 inches to your bag.
Organization
To travel stress-free, look for spinner luggage with a high level of organization. Some pieces feature multiple compartments to divide garments, and others have a series of external compartments to keep essentials readily accessible. Some spinners come with removable dividers or pockets.
TSA-approved locks
Premium spinner luggage is outfitted with built-in TSA-approved locks. These can be opened by a TSA agent’s universal key, making inspection quick and easy. Not only does it mean you can forego a separate purchase of TSA locks, but it can also save your bag from being cut open.
Spinner luggage price
Individual soft-sided spinner luggage costs between $25 and $160 per piece. Hard-sided luggage, however, can cost between $40 and $260. If you want to purchase a spinner luggage set, expect to spend between $50 and $700.
Spinner luggage FAQ
Q. Does it matter what color my spinner luggage is?
A. Not really, but sticking to basic colors like black or navy blue means it will be much harder to identify on a carousel. Because so many pieces look alike, another passenger could take them accidentally. Many travelers opt for bold colors and designs or even decorate their spinners to spot them more easily.
Q. Is spinner luggage waterproof?
A. Both soft- and hard-sided spinner luggage are generally weather-resistant, but unless otherwise marked, they’re not waterproof. Hard-sided spinners tend to be waterproof by the nature of their materials. Soft-sided spinners often require treatment with a waterproofing spray.
Best spinner luggage
Top spinner luggage
Samsonite’s Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage
What you need to know: It has a reliable design featuring more than 10 organization features.
What you’ll love: It’s available in a variety of vibrant colors and has a built-in TSA lock. It also has a 10-year limited warranty.
What you should consider: It can sustain scuffs, but they’re easy to remove with a damp cloth.
Top spinner luggage for the money
Rockland’s Expandable Two-Piece Hardside Luggage Set
What you need to know: This is an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers needing checked and carry-on pieces.
What you’ll love: It has well-made spinner wheels and is lightweight and durable. It also has an ergonomic telescoping handle.
What you should consider: There are mixed reviews reported with warranty claims.
Worth checking out
Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner Luggage
What you need to know: This luggage moves smoothly and easily across the airport, and it’s wallet-friendly at all sizes.
What you’ll love: It expands up to 15%. The hard-shell exterior provides superior protection, and it has a quality lining.
What you should consider: It’s lightweight, but some comparable models are lighter.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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