Whether you are looking for a checked-in suitcase or a free carry on bag. I’ve put together 10 of my favourite travel bags for mums for any destination. If you love this post, don’t forget to check out my other posts including my Packing lists
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Checked bags
Tripp Black Chic Large 4 Wheel Suitcase
One of the most popular choices for travel with checked baggage. The TRIPP Luggage brand is a great choice if you are looking for longevity, security and a suitcase that doesn’t take up much of your baggage allowance weight. The Tripp black chic large 4 wheel suitcase is spacious and easy to drive.
The TSA lock allows you to secure your suitcase safely for travel. The suitcase also has a central space that gives 25% extra room when expanded for those extra souvenirs.
Samsonite base boost large expandable suitcase
Another great brand if you are looking for a suitcase that will last. Samsonite offers a large selection of suitcases that are perfect for checked baggage. I’ve picked out the Samsonite base boost large expandable suitcase as it offers a really robust option but with its lightweight design.
Again the Samsonite offers a TSA lock for that extra peace of mind and an expandable middle that gives you extra space inside if needed
Shop Samsonite Base Boost Large
Hard Shell ABS Suitcase Luggage Trolley Large 28″
A great cheaper option for anyone looking for a sturdy hard-shell suitcase but without the big brand price tag. I found this one on Amazon for £55 and it comes in a range of sizes and colours.
Suitable for any journey, these suitcases are lightweight, functional and durable. The wheels make manoeuvring an easy task whilst they also come with a combination lock attached. For the price, you can’t really go very wrong!
Cabin suitcases
Aerolite Lightweight 55cm Hard Shell
This is one of our favourites and we use this for all our travels when we have booked cabin bags and done short breaks and long holidays with this bag. It has a hard outer shell but is so light it doesn’t take up much allowance.
The size is approved by most UK airlines (check pre-travel with your airline though). The space inside is great, it has different compartments for all your belongings.
Shop Hard Shell Cabin Suitcase
55 cm Cabin Carry on Hand Luggage Suitcase
This was one of the first cabin suitcases I ever brought and I’ve still got it! For the price, I didn’t expect miracles but it is sturdy and can hold a lot of clothes.
Because of the soft fabric it easily squeezes into most airlines’ allowances and it comes in a large range of different colours and designs. It makes a great choice for anyone looking for a children’s suitcase.
Free carry on bags for most airlines
I’m going to use Ryanairs sizes as a guide here. They tend to be the most restrictive airline on bag sizing. Double-check with your airline carrier first though. Ryanair’s current free bag size is 40x25x20cm
Aerolite 40x20x25 New and Improved 2022 Ryanair Maximum Size Holdall Cabin Luggage Under Seat Flight Bag
This is another bag that we have owned for a couple of years now. We have used this bag many times on multiple different flights including with Ryanair. I’ve never had a problem with the sizing and it fits great under the seat in front (even when packed to the brim).
It’s like a tardis inside you can fit a lot of clothes, shoes and extras. I used this bag for a 10 night trip to Athens last year and although I tend to pack light anyway it was perfect. My only negative is that after years of using it the strap has now snapped. However, for the price vs how much use I got out of it, I have no problem recommending it.
Shop Aerolite Ryanair size bag
Cabin Max Manhattan Travel Bag
If you are looking to keep your hands free then this carry on sized backpack is a great option. It has 20L of storage space inside for all your clothes and extras. Multiple pockets on the outside give you lots of places to pop things like your Passport and tickets. It also comes with a luggage strap which allows you to attach it to your suitcase. The backpack element is great especially if you are backpacking or travelling with children.
Shop Cabin Max Manhattan Travel Bag | Ryanair Cabin Bags
Day bags
Eono Water Resistant Money Belt
We were introduced to money belts back in 2015 and we have never looked back! They are an absolute necessity for us when we travel. It allows you to keep important things safe under your clothes and avoid pickpockets and bag snatching.
You can pick these up very cheaply and from most brands. This one from Amazon is great as it’s water-resistant and has lots of different pockets.
Shop Eono Water Resistant Money Belt
ZOMAKE Foldable Backpack Lightweight Rucksack 20L
If you want a little more space for your daily bits, the Zomake foldable backpack is a great option. When empty it can be stored in its small pouch which is great if you are travelling light. The 20l storage means you can fit a whole day’s worth of bits in it. Whether you are off to the beach, on a city day out or just need extra space for the children’s bits.
Shop ZOMAKE Foldable Backpack Lightweight Rucksack 20L
Accessories
BETLLEMORY Packing Cubes 8 Sets Travel Luggage Organizers
I feel like packing cubes has just become a necessity for me packing now. Especially with travelling with children, they are a must! I can normally manage to squeeze each of the kids into one cube and it makes travelling between hotels so much easier. They often come with laundry bags which is great for keeping dirty bits separate. I love these from Amazon, they are sturdy and include a variety of types of bags.
Shop BETLLEMORY Packing Cubes 8 Sets Travel Luggage Organizers