Howdie travelers and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best children’s suitcases for little travel needs this year. As we know, travel presents the opportunity to see some weird and wonderful places – and often even more-so if you can enjoy it with the family. However when it comes to packing, the addition of the little ones definitely adds another layer of interest and fun.
However there are a few factors here that can make things just that little bit easier. So for those of you looking to get some good luggage for your kids, I have had a good look around and come up with three decent options below.
Let’s check them out…
My Three Recommended best kids suitcases
I will review these in more detail below however if you just want to get travelling without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
What are Children’s Suitcases?
Ok, so when it comes to suitcases for children, there are a couple of things we need to consider. The first – and obviously the most important – it needs to look cool! And second and third, there are the somewhat less important (for the kids anyway) aspects of durability and the meeting of airline requirements etc. as well.
Kid’s luggage also tend to be a little smaller than the larger check in type options that we adults may use to check in with so in reality, a simple carry-on case would work here. But if you have to get something, you might as well make it something that the kids will like too I guess hey!
What Should You Be Looking For?
The following factors should be considered as you look around for a children’s suitcase for your travel needs.
- Dimensions
- Weight
- Hard case durability
- Internal pockets
- Additions
Dimensions
Let’s get real here. Even though it is for the little ones, if you want to take it onto the plane with you it must match the carry on dimensions of the airlines. If not, you will have to check it in. So as part of this post, I took the time to look up allowable carry on bag dimensions for 20 odd of the highest profile airlines around the world and they all outline the following as allowable (or close enough to):
9″ x 14″ x 56″ or 23cm x 36cm x 22cm
Put simply, if your case does not meet these dimensions, then you are taking the risk of being sent to check in. Oh, and don’t forget the wheels – In my experience some airlines include then in the size and some don’t.
Weight
The second most important factor when it comes to luggage is weight. As more and more airlines start to police the weight of luggage and charge extra if it goes over, the heaviness of your suitcase can severely reduce the amount of gear they can take.
Many airlines here in Australia restrict carry-on luggage to 7kg (14.4lb) and check in to 25kg (55lb) meaning then that the lighter the case, the more chances your little one has of getting that extra toy in ;-).
Durability
As we all know, travel can be especially tough on luggage – and kids can be even tougher. And once they are finished kicking, dragging, sitting and jumping on it, it will still be bumped and bashed around the plane, car, hotel and airport.
To counteract this, look for a case with lightweight ABS plastic, polycarbonate or ripstop nylon that is strong, dent proof and scratch resistant as well.
Internal pockets
Even though they are small, many cases come with internal pockets and cross straps for better packing ability and roominess. Some also include padded pockets and satchels for tablets and laptops as well.
Color
Now, I probably should have put this one at the top as if your kids are anything like mine, then color and/or patterns are everything. Some like bright colors and others not. And if you can get something with Buzz Lightyear on it then you could be on a winner as well.
My advice, find some childrens suitcases that meet the criteria above, then let the little ones pick the color/pattern.
Additions
Other potential additions include:
- Wheels: Some like them, some don’t, but children’s suitcases on wheels make it a lot easier to move it around. Just be aware of their influence on bag size.
- Telescoping handle: To be honest, you will hard pressed to find a bag without it but a telescoping handle assists in pushing the bag along on the wheels
- TSA locks: TSA locks are used in the United States to allow the TSA to check inside bags without the need to damage the padlock. Some carry on luggage options have these built in.
- Expandable zips: These allow the bag to carry more via an internal extension panel. This will however increase the dimensions.
- Tow chord – Things can at times be a lot easier when traveling as a family as you can sit your little one on their suitcase and tow them along.
FAQ
What is the best children’s suitcase?
The best luggage for children is light in weight, durable and easy to move around. Most importantly, it looks cool and fits within the dimension limitations of the major airlines. Look for something around 9″ x 14″ x 56″ in size with a scratch resistant ABS or polycarbonate cover for extra durability as well.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. Lillian Vernon Personalized Rolling Luggage for Kids
This first option is light weight and durable with dimensions that meet airline dimension requirements even with the wheels. Oh the cool side however it comes in 7 color schemes and can be personalized with their name! See its specifications below:
- Brand: Lillian Vernon
- Dimensions: 23 x 15.5 x 6 inches
- Weight: Not stated but promoted as lightweight
- Construction: Double-stitched, 600-denier, PVC-backed polyester
- Internal pockets: 5 outside zip pockets and 4″L clip-on pouch
Other inclusions:
- Dual rolling wheels
- Telescoping handle
- Reinforced zipper
- Available in multiple patterns and colors
- Free customized embroidery on front
Why have I chosen it?
With this first option, the roller wheels and telescopic handle makes for easy maneuverability with strong zippers and an internal chrome telescoping handle. It will fit all airline dimension limitations and allows for maximum packing for little weight. And with the ability to put their name on the front, this is a great option for family travel, school or camping trips alike.
2. iPlay, iLearn Unicorn Kids Luggage
This second option just screams children and travel that can handle anything thrown at it with smooth wheels and fantastic internal organization as well as a matching backpack. See its specifications below:
- Brand: iPlay, iLearn
- Dimensions: 18.0” x 11.5” x 8.0” (including wheels)
- Weight: 6lb
- Construction: Lightweight ABS
- Internal pockets: Interior organizer with divider and 3 zippered pockets
Other inclusions:
- Multi-directional double spinner wheels
- Telescoping handle
- Internal elasticized strap
- Available in multiple patterns and colors
Why have I chosen it?
This is another great lightweight option with a scratch resistant hard shell with durable zippers. It comes with great internal options for ease of packing as well as double spinner wheels for added maneuverability. In terms of the little ones, they are available in multiple patterns and the matching backpack will be a hit!
3. CNCEST 20″/24″ Kid’s Ride-on Travel Suitcase
My last carry-on option is built for movement with strong wheels and a molded seat allowing you to move through busy airports etc. with ease. See its specifications below:
- Brand: CNCEST
- Dimensions: 20″ x 20″ x 9.5″ (including wheels)
- Weight: 8lb (can handle child up to 66lb)
- Construction: Three layer composite ABS Plastic and Polycarbonate
- Internal pockets: Zipper pocket and packing tie
Other inclusions:
- Multi-directional double spinner wheels
- Telescoping handle and tow cable
- Three-digit combination lock
- Safety belt
- Available in 8 colors
Why have I chosen it?
This case is light weight and built to last with a polycarbonate case that is strong and scratch resistant with a combo lock built in. The skate quality spinner wheels make for excellent mobility at a size that meets most airline limitations. This is a fantastic option for frequent travelers with larger families or little ones who need a little help from time to time.
Conclusion
There you have it, my three best children’s luggage options for little travel needs. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
