12 Adorable Kids’ Luggage Pieces for Your Next Family Vacation

This colorful wheeled bag will be fun and practical for little ones, with a choice of several designs including dinosaurs, ladybugs, and other cute animals. Exterior pockets on the front and sides make it convenient to access games or snacks, and the polyester fabric can easily be spot cleaned. There’s enough interior space for some clothing or other items, as well.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $40

Little ones will love this brightly striped lightweight bag, available in two colors: black and pink stripes or black and white stripes, both with “monster” features that glow in the dark. It’s a polyester carry-on bag and at 18-inches, there’s plenty of storage space, along with a front zipper pocket and interior straps. Sturdy wheels and the adjustable pull handle make it easy to manage and quality materials make it durable.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $80

This would be a starter bag for young children (about 3 to 5 years old), depending on their size.  Kids can sit on it and push it along with their feet or parents can pull it like a wagon. Made of lightweight plastic, it comes in cute designs like Bernard, a yellow bee; Zimba, a zebra; and Tipu, the tiger. There’s ample packing space inside, so it doubles as a suitcase and an entertaining toy.

To buy: amazon.com, $50

At four pounds, this 16-inch carry-on suitcase is lightweight, yet durable. Its exterior front pocket is insulated to keep snacks chilled, and there are two mesh pockets on the sides for drinks. It’s easy to maneuver, with two wheels and a sturdy pull bar as well as a carry handle. The polyester fabric comes in a range of colors and patterns.

To buy: amazon.com, from $50

This soft-sided, two-wheeled suitcase blends style and functionality, with enough outside zip pockets to store all of your kids’ favorite trinkets. There’s even a thoughtful bungee cord to attach a beloved stuffed animal or even a blanket or pillow for the plane.

To buy: target.com, $40

Little sports fans will want to show off their favorite game, whether it’s basketball, baseball, or soccer. This lightweight roller has an adjustable pull handle and a carry handle for convenience. There’s plenty of room inside, with packing straps and a zippered divider for organization. 

To buy: amazon.com, $52

This lightweight (it’s only four pounds) polyester soft-sided bag comes in three patterns: a blue sports design, multicolor handprints, and pink owls. It’s an easy-to-manage two-wheel roller board with a retractable pull handle and a top handle. There’s plenty of space inside and an outside zipper pocket for quick access.

To buy: ebags.com, $46 (originally $80)

For pre-teens who feel far too sophisticated for bright colors and cartoon characters on their luggage, this egg-shaped, 18-inch carry-on is sure to appeal. The faux leather exterior comes in black, white, or camel and is easy to wipe clean. And this ultra-modern design includes an adjustable handle, zip-around closure, and quality materials throughout.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $149

This 21-inch carry-on with four spinner wheels would be ideal for a slightly older child who still loves the polka dots and red bow of Minnie Mouse. It’s spacious and functional with an open packing area and exterior pockets. The locking pull handle and lightweight polyester fabric make it easy to handle. (It also comes in a 28-inch checked size at a slightly higher price).

To buy: ebags.com, $140

Older kids who can handle a 22-inch bag will like the undersea design or pop art print that they can personalize by adding comments in the text bubbles. (Better use washable markers!) There’s lots of packing room, and it expands for even more if needed. Dual spinner wheels, a telescopic handle, top and side grips, and impact-resistant corner guards make it a durable and convenient bag.

To buy: ebags.com, $111 (originally $240)

This durable, good-looking bag will appeal to more mature preteens, in solid color choices of black, blue, and tan. Multiple grips allow it to be carried like a duffel and oversized treaded wheels and a hidden telescopic handle make pulling it easy, too. The roomy main compartment is expandable, and there’s a top pocket for quick-grab items. Durability is built in with reinforced bumpers and a water-repellent 450 D Ripstop fabric exterior.

To buy: eaglecreek.com, $229

For kids who are more comfortable with a backpack — perhaps from carrying their schoolbooks in one — this Samsonite might be just the thing. Even if they wouldn’t think of wheels for school, they’ll welcome them for travel. The large main compartment, zippered front pocket, and side mesh pouch provide plenty of space for packing, and there’s a padded tech sleeve, as well, if they have their own tablet. Keeping in mind that the best kids’ luggage will meet their needs and tastes as well as travel considerations, this one is a great choice.

To buy: ebags.com, $80