The 9 Best Zipperless Luggage Pieces of 2023

We love the Samsonite S’Cure for its three-point locking system.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.

 The 9 Best Zipperless Luggage Pieces of 2022

Monos / Tumi

If you’re traveling with valuables and want your checked bags to be extra secure, zipperless luggage is a must. As the name implies, these suitcases don’t have exterior zippers but instead include a latch (or two) that can be locked with a code or key. TSA agents can access these types of suitcases with a special universal key, but they’re much harder to break into, and less likely to break open, than a zipper.

Typically, zipperless suitcases are also made from tough aluminum and polycarbonate materials to add another layer of protection. Our favorite is the Samsonite S’Cure as it has the zipperless luggage locking system and durable shell plus adds a gasket (to keep out moisture) and an affordable price point. However. our list includes plenty of other options to satisfy all travel styles if that isn’t the item for you.

Here are our favorite zipperless luggage pieces.

Best Overall

Samsonite S’Cure Hardside Luggage

Samsonite S’Cure Hardside Luggage

Amazon

Why We Love It
  • The sealed gasket keeps out moisture while the locking system keeps your items safe.

What to Consider
  • There’s no warranty or replacement parts.

Our top pick from Samsonite comes in three sizes, all of which feature a three-point locking system that allows you to secure your suitcase and protects your things while traveling. The rubber, sealed gasket is a handy feature, as it seals the luggage even more and protects the contents from moisture and debris. There’s also an ID tag on the back of each case so you’ll easily be able to spot it in baggage claim, and the interior contains a divider pad and cross straps for organization. The aluminum pull handle adjusts to different heights for maximum comfort, and four dual-spinner wheels make lugging the suitcase around a breeze. In addition to the 20-inch, 28-inch, and 30-inch sizes, four colors are available.

Price at time of publish: $350 for 30-inch, $320 for 28-inch, $239 for 20-inch

The Details: 31.9 x 21.7 x 13.8 (30-inch), 28.5 x 18 x 11.5 inches (28-inch), 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9 inches (20-inch)  | 14 pounds (30-inch), 11.2 pounds (28-inch), 6.6 pounds (20-inch)

Best Splurge

Rimowa Classic Check-in L

Rimowa Classic Check-in L

Rimowa

Why We Love It
  • The tough aluminum construction holds up year after year.

What to Consider
  • There are only two colors available.

Designed and engineered in Germany, Rimowa makes a solid aluminum suitcase that keeps your belongings stylishly secure. Luxury meets functionality here with high-end aluminum alloy construction, handmade leather handles, and high-gloss aluminum corners that protect from bumps and transit. The TSA-approved locks can be opened by security during baggage checks without causing any damage, and a multi-wheel system allows you to push and pull the suitcase in any direction with ease. A flexible divider helps keep your items organized within the suitcase, and the telescopic handle has three different adjustment levels for easy moving. This suitcase holds enough stuff for trips of up to 10 days, and Rimowa includes a complimentary luggage tag and sticker with purchase, along with a lifetime guarantee.

Price at time of publish: $1,825

The Details: 30.8 x 20.5 x 10.7 inches | 13.2 pounds

Best Budget

Coolife Luggage Aluminium Frame Suitcase

Coolife Luggage Aluminium Frame Suitcase

Amazon

Why We Love It
  • The interior organization and tough exterior build make a great, affordable suitcase.

What to Consider
  • The corners are prone to cracking with rough wear and tear.

If you’re looking to try a zipperless bag without dropping a lot of dough, the Coolife suitcase is a great start. The frame is made from aluminum (with a TSA-approved locking system), but the main body of the suitcase is made from a long-lasting polycarbonate material. All four wheels have 360-degree rotation for easy maneuvering, and the telescopic handles adjust to your liking. On the inside, find mesh pockets, straps to cinch down your clothes, and built-in carrying bags for added organization. A two-year warranty is provided, and four colors are available.

Price at time of publish: $130 for medium, $160 for large

The Details: 26.5 x 17.9 x 10.6 inches (medium), 31 x 20.5 x 12 (large) | 10.2 pounds (medium), 12.8 pounds (large)

Best Trunk

July Checked Trunk

July Checked Trunk

July

Why We Love It
  • The 360-degree wheels and adjustable, telescopic handle reinvent the classic trunk.

What to Consider
  • The exterior can scratch easily.

A trunk is always a great choice for those needing lots of room, or for an extended trip, and we love this trunk on wheels from July. It has a polycarbonate shell with twin-latch locks and an 80/20 clamshell-style lid opening. The wheels move in all directions for smooth schlepping, and the telescopic handle stops at different heights so it’s easy to control the trunk as well. A hidden laundry bag is included, and a Y-strap compression system helps you cinch down your clothes to maximize space. The nylon lining is water-resistant and stain-proof, and a lifetime warranty is included. All five colors can also be personalized with everything from your initials to a picture of your pet.

Price at time of publish: $495

The Details: 28.25 x 16.5 x 14.5 inches | 10.6 pounds

Best Checked

Monos Hybrid Check-in Large

Monos Hybrid Check-in Large

Monos

Why We Love It
  • The aluminum and polycarbonate build is both stunning and stands up to long-haul travel.

What to Consider
  • This suitcase is a bit heavier compared to others on this list.

Aluminum and polycarbonate meet in this hybrid-model suitcase designed to last a lifetime. The zipperless frame is aluminum with aluminum corner bumpers, while the shell is made from polycarbonate for extra durability. There are two TSA-approved locks to keep your things secure, and a telescopic handle and 360-degree spinner wheels to make transit a breeze. Monos took aesthetics into consideration here as well, as all components of the suitcase are color matched, from the handles down to the wheels, making for a sleek and stylish piece. The interior is a dream, too, with Y-shaped compression straps, a divider, and zippered pockets. In addition to this large checked bag, there’s also a trunk, a smaller checked bag, and two carry-on options in the same three colors.

Price at time of publish: $425

The Details: 30 x 21 x 11 inches | 13 pounds

Best Carry-on

Tumi International Carry-on

Tumi International Carry-on

Tumi

Why We Love It
  • The interior organization is off the charts including a hanger bracket, zippered dividers, and pockets galore.

What to Consider
  • Go with the silver color if you’re concerned about scratches.

A strong construction combined with style makes this suitcase from Tumi our favorite carry-on. We love the wavy design on the exterior, coupled with an aluminum build that stands up to bumps and dings. There are two TSA-approved combination locks with push button openings, and the telescopic handle has three height settings for easy transport. Handles on the top and side of the suitcase make it easy to transition from rolling to carrying when needed, and 360-degree spinner wheels offer a smooth ride. Corner bumpers add protection, and the interior includes two mesh, zippered pockets, a zippered divider, a card pocket, and even a hanger bracket. Vintage-inspired destination stickers are included, so you can decorate your suitcase to your liking — and make it easier to spot at baggage claim.

Price at time of publish: $1,195

The Details: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 11 pounds

Best Vintage-style

Moierg Trolley Vintage Suitcase

Moierg Trolley Vintage Suitcase

Amazon

Why We Love It
  • This suitcase marries vintage style with modern flair, and comes in three sizes.

What to Consider
  • The wheels and handles make these suitcases much larger than the interior space.

If you like the look of vintage trunks, then this one is perfect for you. It’s been modernized with 360-degree spinner wheels, meaning you don’t have to worry about lugging around a heavy case by the handles. The exterior lock is TSA-approved, and the interior includes a pocket in the lid and a zippered, mesh divider. Exterior leather straps and buckles help you cinch down the suitcase, and numerous color options are available. Do note that, because of the protruding wheels and handles, only the smallest size will likely work as a carry-on bag.

Price at time of publish: $198 for extra-small, $218 for small, $238 for medium

The Details: 21.3 x 12.6 x 7.9 (extra-small), 23.2 x 13.4 x 8.3 inches (small), 27.6 x 14.6 x 9.4 | 8.8 (extra-small), 10.1 (small), 11.9 pounds (medium)

Best Organization

Andiamo Classico Suitcase

Andiamo Classico Suitcase

Amazon

Why We Love It
  • We love the pocket organization in the divider flap.

What to Consider
  • The included USB charging port doesn’t come with a battery.

Available in three colors, this suitcase from Andiamo comes with TSA-approved locks that keep your valuables safe. The exterior shell is made from aluminum with aluminum-magnesium-alloy bumper corners for added protection. The interior is fully lined and comes with multiple organization pockets to keep everything in its place. The divider flap contains two zippered pockets and a larger pocket with a flap. A limited five-year warranty is included.

Price at time of publish: $330

The Details: 22 x 14 x 8.5 inches | 10 pounds

Best Aluminum

TravelKing Aluminum Carry-on Luggage

TravelKing Aluminum Carry-on Luggage

Amazon

Why We Love It
  • An all-aluminum build makes for a durable case that lasts.

What to Consider
  • These bags only come in silver and gunmetal gray.

Made with an all-aluminum construction with aluminum-magnesium alloy bumper corners, this suitcase style is durable and can withstand airports, buses, trains, and just about any means of travel. Each keyless and zipperless suitcase comes with dual TSA-approved combination locks to keep your belongings safe, and a fully-lined interior that includes organizational pockets and straps to cinch down your stuff. All-direction spinner wheels and an adjustable telescopic handle allows you to travel with ease. Three sizes are available.

Price at time of publish: $280 for 20-inch, $370 for 24-inch, $450 for 28-inch

The Details: 20.8 x 14 x 9.1 inches (20-inch), 25.4 x 18 x 9.8 inches (24-inch), 29.1 x 19.1 x 10.4 inches (28-inch) | 9.7 pounds (20-inch), 12 pounds (24-inch), 13.7 pounds (28-inch)

Tips for Buying Zipperless Luggage

Buy the size you need

Keeping your belongings safe is about more than just a zipperless piece of luggage, it’s about buying the correct size suitcase you need. You want your things to fit snugly inside so they don’t move around while in transit. If your belongings don’t fill up a checked bag, for example, consider buying a smaller carry-on that will accommodate your items while also keeping them secure.

Consider organizational features

Depending on what you’re packing, you might need some organization with your luggage. Are you taking jewelry that can’t be tangled? Or delicates that don’t need to be smashed? Maybe you need a laptop pocket or a place for documents? Look for luggage that contains organizational elements such as mesh pockets, folders, zippered sections, and dividers to keep your things neat.

Frequently Asked Questions
  • How does zipperless luggage work?

    Instead of exterior zippers that anyone can easily unzip (or can potentially break), zipperless luggage usually contains latches and a locking system to keep your belongings safe from other people. Usually, you’ll have a combination to get inside, and TSA agents have a special luggage key that allows them access to your suitcase.

  • Are zipperless suitcases safe for my belongings?

    Yes, zipperless suitcases can be considered safer than standard zippered suitcases as the secure latches and durable hardshells make them harder to penetrate. Of course, your things can move around inside any suitcase and get destroyed, which is why it’s important to pack with care and to use the appropriately sized bag for your belongings so nothing is damaged.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Travel + Leisure contributor Amanda Ogle used research and her personal expertise as a travel writer to craft the perfect list of zipperless luggage for your next adventure.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Was this page helpful?
Related Articles