Whether your next trip is to discover a country you've never been to, or simply to spend a few days unwinding on a gorgeous beach, there is something to be said about the thrill of packing your bags and heading to a far-off destination.
Unfortunately, before your plane touches down, you'll probably spend a few hours — sometimes days — getting there. And this is when things can get a bit annoying.
Maybe you arrive at the airport and it turns out your carry-on weighs more than your airline allows, or your flight is delayed and your phone/laptop/tablet runs out of battery — and all the outlets at the gate are taken by other passengers. Or you miss your connecting flight and can't stop thinking about whether or not your bag made it to your new aircraft.
Related: The Best Carry-on Luggage
This is where “smart luggage” comes in: Thanks to technology, you no longer have to endure even a second of luggage-related anxiety during any part of your trip. With built-in features like GPS locators, USB ports to charge your devices, solar-powered batteries, and remote lock systems, smart luggage is a game-changer in the travel industry.
And you don’t have to sacrifice the look of your suitcase for its efficiency. Sleek design and durable materials make these backpacks and suitcases your stylish companion guaranteed to last for years to come.
Although do note, as per recent regulations from airlines like American Airlines and Delta, you'll want to make sure the battery in your suitcase is removable, even if it's a carry-on. We've highlighted the luggage brands that meet this requirement and added similar notes below.
Arlo Skye Carry-on
Arlo Skye has created the sleekest, most perfect carry-on. It is lightweight and features a built-in charger, anti-microbial lining, shoe and laundry bags, and no outside zippers. Instead, you can open and close it with code-protected locks that will make sure no one but you can access your valuables.
To buy: arloskye.com, $550
Barracuda
The collapsible Barracuda solves a very annoying problem all of us have at airports—the lack of tables or any shelving to put a laptop on. It has a drop-down tray attached to its 360 degrees rotating handle and a two-cup holder. That’s of course in addition to the portable battery that allows for up to five phone charges, the scale, and the location tracker that will alert you once your bag is on the carousel.
To buy: ahalife.com, $350
G-RO Tough Terrain Expandable Carry-on
This carry-on has a sleek yet funky design thanks to its neon-hued oversized wheels that let you navigate even the bumpiest cobblestone streets of your favorite city. The suitcase comes with a portable charging station with two USB ports as well as dual TSA-approved locks. And with multiple compartments and pockets, you can keep your belongings organized even when you’re away from home.
To buy: amazon.com, $449
Away The Bigger Carry-on
This start-up luggage brand may be a newcomer to the industry, but it’s quickly becoming a cult favorite among frequent fliers. Away makes unbreakable hardside luggage in three sizes, and The Bigger Carry-on is a roomy 23-inch case that is sized for most major domestic airlines. It’s equipped with a built-in battery and a TSA-approved combination lock, and alongside the brand’s seven core colors, there are always fun seasonal collaborations.
To buy: awaytravel.com, $245
TravelPro Crew 11
TravelPro is known for the quality and durability of their suitcases, which if you are a frequent traveler, we’re sure you’ll appreciate. At only 7 lbs., it’s probably one of the lightest carry-on suitcases you’ll find on the market that also packs a lot of smart features such as an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) -blocking interior pocket that prevents identity theft and an exterior USB port.
To buy: ebags.com, $196
Néit Collapsible Carry-on
Néit has created the world’s first collapsible hard-case carry-on that goes from 10 inches wide to just 3 inches in seconds. This is a total game-changer, especially for people who live in smaller apartments and don’t necessarily have the extra space to store a suitcase. You will also be able to track your waterproof suitcase from your phone in case it gets lost.
To buy: neit.life, $245
Samsara Smart Luggage
This suitcase truly looks like it’s from the future. And it has equally impressive features — it is entirely made of lightweight aluminum alloy and has an anodized coating for protection and a long-lasting look. The flat top allows you to use it as a table, propping your laptop up to work on it during a long airport layover. Download the Samsara app and you’ll receive a notification each time the suitcase is opened out of your sight. The built-in battery can charge your phone up to ten times.
To buy: samsaraluggage.com, $435
Tylt Pro Powerbag Travel Backpack
This backpack is basically a movable charging station. It has five external and two internal cable pockets, and its battery allows you to charge up to three devices at the same time. Its TSA-approved layout features a laptop compartment that will fit a 15-inch laptop while the weatherproof exterior will make sure all your belongings are protected from the elements.
To buy: amazon.com, from $110
Trakk Armor
Calling all hiking and outdoors enthusiasts. This smart backpack will become your constant companion in every adventure you decide to undertake. Its Heat Dissipation Technology will keep your belongings at room temperature regardless of what the thermometer outside shows. It’s weatherproof but that goes without saying. Another cool feature—the app-controlled LED lighting will make cycling or walking during the night much safer.
To buy: amazon.com, $90
Modobag
You probably saw this one coming. The Modobag went viral last year and for a very good reason. It’s the world’s first motorized suitcase which means you can ride it to the terminal and get there much faster. Its tech features include two USB ports, LED light controls, app-controlled tracking and proximity alert, and a riding range of up to eight miles.
To buy: modobag.com, $1,295
ECEEN backpack
We love the stylish look of this backpack and its cool urban vibe. Of course, it’s so much more than its design. The lightweight rip- and water-proof exterior means you can take it with you on pretty much any adventure. But what really makes it special is the 3.5-Watt foldable (and removable) solar panel that powers a built-in battery.
To buy: amazon.com, $50
