Summary of the Best Cruise Luggage: Cruises contribute about 3% of global greenhouse emissions in addition to the amount of waste that needs to be disposed. On a per-person average, cruises are worse than flying for the environment. That’s why we recommend sustainable and vegan-friendly Horizn Studios and Paravel as the best luggage brands for a cruise. Wouldn’t you like to help offset your carbon footprint?
Cruising is an exciting way to travel and explore the world, but it comes with unique challenges. One of those challenges is finding the best cruise luggage that will fit all your needs while still being within airline weight limits.
After researching many different types of bags, we have compiled a list of the best luggage for cruises.
The bags on our list are lightweight yet durable and come in various sizes and styles, so you can find one that fits your needs.
Whether you’re looking for something small enough to carry onto an airplane or something more significant for extended trips, there’s sure to be something here that meets your requirements.
We’ve also considered factors such as price point, durability, water resistance, ease-of-use features, and more when compiling this list, so you can rest assured that each bag has been carefully evaluated before making it onto our final selection.
So if you’re planning a cruise soon and need to purchase some new luggage — look no further.
Our review contains information about all the top choices available right now so you can make an informed decision about which product is right for you. Read on to learn all about the best cruise luggage.
Related: Best TSA-Approved Toiletry Bags
Best Luggage for Cruises at a Glance:
- Best Carry-On: Horizn Studios M5
- Best Luggage Set: Paravel The Ultimate Set Plus
- Best Luggage Set for a Family of 4 or 5: Aerotrunk 3-Piece Luggage Set
- Best Luxury Luggage: RIMOWA Original
- Best Budget Luggage: Level8 Textured Luggage 2-Piece Set
- Best Duffel Bag: Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 110L
- Best Backpack: Osprey Atmos (men’s)/Aura (women’s) AG LT 65
- Best Daypack for Ports of Call: Mountain Hardwear Field Day 16L
- Best Luggage for Cruise Crew: Travelpro Crew Versapack
What Type of Luggage Should I Take on a Cruise?
When embarking on a cruise, one of the first things you need to consider is the type of luggage best suited for your trip.
With factors like the duration of your cruise, your planned activities, and the cruise’s dress code coming into play, making the right choice can feel daunting.
This guide aims to simplify that process, outlining the pros and cons of various luggage types for your cruise vacation.
Hardside vs. Softside Luggage
Hardside Luggage
Hardside luggage, as the name suggests, features a rigid exterior, typically made from materials like polycarbonate or ABS plastic.
These are ideal for cruises due to their durability and ability to protect your belongings from potential damage, which is especially important when your luggage is being handled by cruise staff during the boarding and disembarkation processes.
Another advantage of hardside luggage is its water-resistant properties, which can be beneficial considering the proximity to water on a cruise.
However, they can be bulkier and might not fit comfortably in the limited cabin space on some cruise ships.
Softside Luggage
Softside luggage, on the other hand, offers flexibility in terms of packing. They can expand to accommodate extra items, which can be handy for those souvenir purchases.
Their flexible nature can also be a plus when squeezing your luggage into tight cabin storage spaces.
However, softside luggage may offer a different level of protection for your belongings than hardside luggage, and they’re not typically as water-resistant.
Different Types of Luggage
Suitcase
A suitcase is a classic choice for any travel and a popular choice for cruisers. They’re easy to transport thanks to their wheels and handles, and they come in various sizes to suit different trip durations.
Many suitcases also feature handy compartments and pockets for organizing your belongings.
On the downside, larger suitcases can be cumbersome in the confined space of a cruise cabin, and they may take up valuable space.
Backpack
Backpacks can be an excellent option for those planning to participate in many excursions during their cruise. They’re easy to carry around, perfect for day trips, and can double as a carry-on for your flight.
However, there may be better choices than backpacks for your main luggage on a cruise, especially if you plan on bringing formal wear, as they don’t offer much protection, and clothes can get wrinkled.
Duffel Bag
Duffel bags are versatile and can hold a lot of items. They’re also flexible, making them a good choice for fitting into tight storage spaces.
However, they can be harder to transport than a wheeled suitcase, incredibly, when complete, and offer less protection for your items.
The best luggage for a cruise trip depends on your personal needs and the nature of your vacation.
For most people, a medium-sized hardside suitcase and a small backpack or duffel bag for excursions is the most practical and versatile choice.
Best Cruise Luggage
1. Horizn Studios M5
Are you planning an upcoming cruise and want to ensure smooth travels with the best carry-on luggage?
Look no further than the Horizn Studios M5! This high-tech, luxurious suitcase is packed with features that will make your cruise journey much more comfortable and convenient.
PETA-Approved Vegan
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Horizn Studios M5 is that it’s PETA-approved vegan. This means you can feel good about your purchase knowing that no animals were harmed in its production.
The M5 uses a water-resistant vegan material in its front pocket, making it perfect for storing your laptop up to 15 inches.
One-Click Removable Smart Charger
When you’re traveling, staying connected is essential. That’s why the Horizn Studios M5 comes equipped with a one-click removable smart charger.
This allows you to stay charged up on the go, and it’s cabin approved for all airlines. You’ll never miss an email or a call while traveling again.
Aerospace-grade Polycarbonate Hard Shell
The M5 also features an aerospace-grade polycarbonate hard shell that is both lightweight and durable. It’s made using recycled materials so you can feel good about your environmental impact.
The hard shell protects your belongings from damage, ensuring your items stay safe even through the most turbulent flights and handling.
Four 360° Japanese Spinner Wheels
The four 360° Japanese spinner wheels on the Horizn Studios M5 allow for effortless maneuvering through the airport and cruise ship. The four-stage telescopic handle adjusts to your ideal height, making it comfortable and easy to pull the suitcase around.
There’ll be no more struggling with heavy, awkward luggage that can ruin your vacation mood.
If you’ve been searching for the perfect carry-on luggage for your cruise vacation, look no further than the Horizn Studios M5.
2. Paravel The Ultimate Set Plus
The Paravel Ultimate Set Plus is all you need to have stress-free traveling to your dream destination. This luggage set is stylish and eco-friendly, as it’s made with sustainable materials that reduce the impact on the environment.
This luggage set has enough space for a couple or a small family of three.
Paravel Packing Cube Squad
With this set, organization is vital, making packing and unpacking a breeze. The Packing Cube Squad includes four cubes of different sizes, so you can keep all your clothes and belongings organized.
The cubes are made from sustainable polycarbonate shells and recycled zippers so that you can feel good about your purchase for yourself and the planet.
Paravel Fold-Up Bag
You never know when you’ll need an extra bag during your travels. The Paravel Fold-Up Bag is the perfect solution. This lightweight bag folds into a compact pouch that fits in the palm of your hand.
It’s durable, ensuring all the items you add to it stay secure.
Paravel Weekend Bag
The Paravel Weekend Bag is your go-to bag for short trips. With its spacious interior, you can store your favorite outfits and toiletries. The bag is designed with two interior pockets that help you stay organized.
It’s the perfect size for your cruise ship cabin’s storage compartments. Additionally, the sustainable exterior leather and recycled zippers give it an elegant touch.
Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus
The Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus is 46 liters of space heaven. You will have plenty of room to pack your essentials and add any shopping souvenirs during your trip.
Its hard shell exterior will protect all of your belongings, and the scratch-resistant surface ensures that the luggage always looks its best.
This carry-on has a retractable handle that locks at two heights, offering flexibility for people of different heights.
Paravel Aviator Grand Checked Luggage
The Paravel Aviator Grand Checked Luggage is perfect for the traveler who wants to pack everything. Its 77L volume and hard shell are ideal for keeping your clothes and gear safe.
Furthermore, you will see that the sustainable recycled polycarbonate, recycled aluminum, and recycled vegan leather create the perfect combination between durability and style.
The Paravel Ultimate Set Plus is the ideal luggage for your next cruise vacation. This eco-friendly luggage set is designed with sustainable materials and leaves a small footprint on the environment.
3. Aerotrunk 3-Piece Luggage Set
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Aerotrunk 3 Piece Luggage Set – Lightweight Hard Shell Travel Suitcases with Spinner Wheels, TSA… |
$499.95 |
Buy on Amazon |
Are you looking for the perfect luggage set for your upcoming family cruise?
One that is durable, spacious, and easy to store?
Look no further than the Aerotrunk 3-Piece Luggage Set.
Premium Materials
The Aerotrunk 3-Piece Luggage Set is made with Makrolon polycarbonate, a high-strength, lightweight material that can withstand the wear and tear of travel.
The YKK zippers provide added protection against theft and damage, and the TSA-approved locks ensure that your belongings are always secure.
Ample Space
The Aerotrunk set includes a 21″ carry-on with a 48L capacity, a 24.5″ medium checked suitcase with a 70L capacity, and a large checked suitcase with a 100L capacity.
This provides enough space for a family of four or five on a seven-day cruise or a couple for 30 days of travel and expedition cruises. The suitcases fit within each other for easy storage at home.
User-Friendly Features
The luggage set is designed with the user in mind.
The four double-spinner wheels provide effortless mobility in any direction, and the telescopic handles with multiple locking positions make it easy to adjust to your height.
The interior of the suitcases includes a divider panel and multiple pockets for easy organization of your belongings.
100-Day Risk-Free Trial
The Aerotrunk 3-Piece Luggage Set comes with a 100-day risk-free trial. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, you can return it for a full refund.
This shows the manufacturer has confidence in the product and gives you peace of mind when purchasing.
All-in-all, the Aerotrunk 3-Piece Luggage Set is the perfect luggage set for families who want to travel in style and comfort.
So, pack your bags and prepare for your next family cruise adventure with the Aerotrunk luggage set.
4. RIMOWA Original
Anyone excited about embarking on a luxury cruise knows that their choice of luggage is vital to starting their vacation off on the right foot.
Scrambling with a flimsy, poorly designed suitcase is the last thing you want to worry about when stepping onto the deck of a beautiful ocean liner.
The RIMOWA Original is certainly one option that deserves a closer look when it comes to luxury luggage that’s perfect for cruises.
German Engineering
Germany is known for many things, but engineering is at the top. It’s no different when it comes to RIMOWA Original.
The RIMOWA Original is a testament to the brand’s high-end engineering. The suitcase is made from anodized aluminum, which is highly durable and surprisingly lightweight.
The suitcase’s durability is even more critical when it comes to packing for a cruise, where the luggage will be shuffling around throughout an extended trip.
Luxury Brand
RIMOWA is not a newcomer in crafting some of the world’s best luggage, and they’ve got the history to back it up. The company was founded in 1898, which means they’ve been producing luggage longer than any other worldwide brand.
Their complete attention to detail, from the design of the luggage to minor detail, makes this brand stand out so beautifully. Their heritage is evident in every facet of the RIMOWA Original design, giving pride to travelers who own one of these impressive and beautiful suitcases.
Must-Have Features
RIMOWA Original is unstoppable, attributing to the many features it offers. The Multiwheel System ensures easy maneuverability through the airport or onboard the ship.
The two TSA-approved locks keep your belongings safe with maximum security.
The Flex Divider provides a spacious compartment that allows packing for more extended trips with ease.
And lastly, the suitcase features a telescopic handle that provides additional control over the luggage, making it easy to move around on the ship.
Pure Beauty
The RIMOWA Original is undoubtedly a true identity of beauty. It has a timeless classic shape that is untouched by time.
The case’s classic look blends elegance and performance, making it not just sturdy for the long haul but it’s also a masterpiece to travel around with.
Not only that, but it also comes in three sizes: cabin, check-in, and trunk sizes. This fits your needs for any voyage you’re about to take.
The RIMOWA Original is genuinely the best luxury luggage for your next cruise. Its design is pleasing to the eye and is made with high-end materials, ensuring its durability. It has plenty of features that make packing and traveling easy.
5. Level8 Textured Luggage 2-Piece Set
Finding high-quality luggage that won’t break the bank can be a challenge. That’s where the Level8 Textured Luggage 2-Piece Set comes in for your cruise.
2-Piece Set
The Level8 Textured Luggage 2-Piece Set includes a 20″ carry-on and your choice of a 24″ or 28″ checked suitcase. This set provides enough space for all your cruise essentials while complying with most cruise line luggage size restrictions.
Plus, the additional checked suitcase gives you the option to bring home souvenirs without worrying about exceeding airline weight limits.
Material
The Level8 Textured Luggage 2-Piece Set is made from Germany Bayer Makrolon material, known for its lightweight yet durable properties. The textured anti-scratch surface adds an extra layer of protection against wear and tear during your travels.
With this luggage set, you can trust that your belongings will arrive at your destination in one piece.
Top Features
The Level8 Textured Luggage 2-Piece Set is equipped with a durable aluminum alloy trolley system, making it easy to maneuver through busy airports or cruise terminals.
The top and side carry handles provide extra convenience for lifting and carrying your luggage. The 360° spinner wheels are durable and ultra-quiet for a smooth ride.
Plus, the TSA-approved combination lock adds an extra layer of security to protect your belongings.
Lifetime Warranty
The Level8 Textured Luggage 2-Piece Set comes with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind for all your future travels.
If there are any defects in the materials or artistry, Level8 will repair or replace the luggage at no cost to you.
When looking for budget-friendly luggage for your cruise, the Level8 Textured Luggage 2-Piece Set is a top contender.
6. Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel 110L
Packing for a cruise can be annoying, especially when it comes to fitting all your belongings. Your luggage needs to be spacious, durable, and easy to carry. That’s where the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel 110L comes in.
Wide Opening and Large Zippers
The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel 110L has a wide opening and large zippers, making it easy to pack big and bulky loads.
You won’t have to worry about struggling to fit all your essentials in a small suitcase. The compression straps also help with keeping everything organized and secure.
Treaded Wheels
Dragging a heavy duffel bag through a bustling cruise port can be quite a hassle, but the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel 110L has your back.
Its treaded wheels glide effortlessly on various terrains, making hauling your gear a breeze. You’ll be thankful for this feature during embarkation and disembarkment.
Storm Flap and Water Repellent
The last thing you want during a cruise is for any of your belongings to get wet, mainly if they include essential documents or electronics.
With the Eagle Creek, Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel 110L’s storm flap on the main and end compartments and water-repellant quality, you can rest easy knowing your items are well protected from the elements.
Lightweight and Versatile
One of the best things about the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel 110L is that it weighs less than 5 lbs, making it easy to lift and maneuver.
Plus, it can convert to a backpack, providing different carrying options depending on your preference and needs.
Covered by No Matter What Warranty
Eagle Creek offers a No Matter What Warranty for all their products, including the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel 110L. This warranty covers the bag against defects and damages, so if any issues arise during your trip, you can feel assured that you have protection.
Overall, the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel 110L is the perfect duffel bag for cruising. Its ample space and organizational features make packing a breeze, while the treaded wheels and lightweight design help to make navigating a crowded port much more manageable.
7. Osprey Atmos and Aura AG LT 65
The right cruise backpack will provide sufficient room for your clothes, footwear, toiletries, and other basics, making it easier for you to move around the airport or ports of call.
You also want something lightweight, durable, and built with sustainability in mind.
After extensive research, we’ve found the perfect backpacks for your next cruise adventure – the Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 for men and the Osprey Aura AG LT 65 for women.
65-Liter Capacity
The Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 and Aura AG LT 65 backpacks feature a 65-liter capacity, providing ample space for all your necessary items without taking up too much space.
There’s enough room for your clothes, shoes, toiletries, and other essentials for a 5-7 day cruise.
You can easily fit everything into the backpack, subdivide it to get organized, and access everything quickly with the backpack’s top-loading design.
Fit-on-the-Fly Hipbelt
One of the most challenging things when it comes to backpacks is getting a perfect fit. The Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 and Aura AG LT 65 backpacks come with a unique feature — the Fit-on-the-Fly hip belt. The hip belt can be adjusted even when the backpack is loaded, providing a snug and comfortable fit for a range of sizes.
The Osprey backpacks are designed with an adjustable harness and lumbar panel, and the sternum strap ensures the backpack remains in place even when you’re in motion.
Lightweight Design
When embarking on a cruise, it’s important to pack smart and travel light. Your backpack should be balanced, especially if you have to climb stairs or move around the ship.
The Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 and Aura AG LT 65 backpacks weigh less than five pounds, making them easier to carry around all day without putting too much strain on your shoulders and back.
The lightweight design also makes storing the backpack in your cruise cabin easier when you’re not using it.
Sustainable Design
At Osprey, sustainability is at the forefront of everything they do, which is evident in the design of the Atmos AG LT 65 and Aura AG LT 65 backpacks.
These backpacks are thoughtfully designed with bluesign-approved fabrics that meet the highest standards in the textile industry for environmental and consumer protection.
The backpacks are also GRS-certified, meaning they’re made from recycled materials. The backpack’s Durable Water Repellant (DWR) coating is also PFAS-free, making it environmentally friendly.
Internal Hydration Reservoir Sleeve
When you’re out on a cruise adventure, staying hydrated is essential. The Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 and Aura AG LT 65 backpacks come with an internal hydration reservoir sleeve, accommodating a hydration reservoir of up to three liters.
The center back exit port can easily hold a hydration bladder hose, which enables easy drinking without having to stop and retrieve your water bottle.
The Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 and Aura AG LT 65 backpacks are perfect for your next cruise adventure. With a 65-liter capacity, the backpack provides sufficient room for your essentials, while the Fit-on-the-Fly hip-belt delivers a precise fit, and the lightweight design ensures that you don’t have additional weight to carry around.
8. Mountain Hardwear Field Day 16L Backpack
As a traveler, having the perfect day pack when going on a cruise is essential.
You need a durable, lightweight backpack with enough compartments to store all your belongings.
The Mountain Hardwear Field Day 16L Backpack checks all these boxes and more.
Excellent for Exploring Ports of Call in the Caribbean or Europe
The Mountain Hardwear Field Day 16L Backpack is the perfect daypack for exploring ports of call in the Caribbean or Europe.
Its compact size makes it easy to carry around, and the minimalist design means it will look good in any setting. Whether you’re strolling along the cobblestone streets of Italy or taking a dip in the clear blue waters of the Caribbean, this backpack has got you covered.
Super Durable
The backpack’s recycled 210D ripstop shell is lightweight yet super durable, making it perfect for travel. This material is incredibly resilient, meaning you can toss your backpack around on the docks and beaches without worrying about any wear or tear.
Plus, the ripstop shell ensures that any holes or rips are prevented from spreading, making the backpack last longer.
Helpful Features
The Mountain Hardwear Field Day 16L Backpack has a stretch woven front dump pocket with an SR buckle closure and dual water bottle pockets.
These pockets are perfect for storing any essentials you need to access quickly, such as sunscreen or water bottles.
The SR buckle closure ensures that your items are secured, preventing them from falling out during your travels.
Versatile Main Compartment
The backpack’s main compartment is the perfect place to store all your belongings during your travels. It comes with a padded fleece laptop sleeve, tablet sleeve, zippered pocket, and two elastic dump pockets.
The laptop sleeve and tablet sleeve ensure that your devices are protected, while the zippered pocket and elastic dump pockets provide ample storage space for your other belongings.
Hydration Reservoir
The Mountain Hardwear Field Day 16L Backpack also comes with a hydration reservoir hang loop and hose port, making it easy to stay hydrated while on the go.
Additionally, the backpack features a removable sternum strap with an emergency whistle, ensuring you’re prepared for any situation that may arise during your travels.
Overall, the Mountain Hardwear Field Day 16L Backpack is the perfect daypack for a cruise.
9. Travelpro Crew Versapack
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Travelpro Crew Versapack Softside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage | Buy on Amazon |
As a cruise crew member, packing the right luggage is crucial. You need a durable and spacious bag that can withstand the rigorous demands of your profession. That’s why we recommend Travelpro Crew Versapack, a brand trusted by pilots, cabin crews, ship engineers, and more.
Brand Founded by a Pilot
The brand’s founder, Bob Plath, was a pilot who saw the need for more durable and functional luggage for his profession. He created Travelpro in 1987, and since then, it has become one of the most trusted brands in the industry. As a cruise crew, you need luggage designed by someone who understands the challenges of your work, and Travelpro fits the bill.
Excellent for All Cruise Staff
Travelpro is designed to cater to the needs of various travelers, including cruise crews. Whether you’re a captain, cabin crew, ship engineer, or entertainment staff, you’ll find Travelpro luggage that suits your needs. The luggage is available in different sizes, ranging from the 20-inch carry-on to the 25-inch checked luggage, perfect for small cabin quarters.
Includes 20-inch Carry-On and 25-inch Checked Suitcase
One of the great things about Travelpro is that it comes in different sizes, making it easier to find the right one for your needs. The 20-inch carry-on is perfect for storing your essentials, and it comes with an external USB port and padded pockets that fit a 15-inch MacBook. The 25-inch checked luggage is perfect for storing your clothes and other items, and it easily fits in small cabin quarters.
The Checked Luggage is the Ideal Size for Small Cabin Quarters
As a cruise crew, you know how important it is to have luggage that fits in small cabin quarters. You want a bag that takes up only a little space or is challenging to maneuver in tight spaces.
With Travelpro, you get checked luggage that is the perfect size for small cabin quarters. It’s easy to move around, and you can store it in small spaces without any problems.
High-Quality Material
Another great feature of Travelpro is its durability. The luggage is made of high-density ballistic nylon fabric with duraguard coating, which resists stains and abrasions. This means that your luggage will remain in excellent condition for a long time, even with constant use.
As a cruise crew, you need a suitcase that can withstand the rigorous demands of your profession, and Travelpro delivers just that.
Travelpro Crew Versapack is the best luggage for a cruise crew. With its durability, functionality, and different sizes, you’re sure to find the right one for your needs.
Whether you’re a captain, cabin crew, ship engineer, or entertainment staff, Travelpro has got you covered.
Conclusion
Overall, Horizn Studios and Paravel are two of the best cruise luggage brands out there.
Both companies offer a wide selection of stylish yet sustainable travel bags that make it easy to look good while doing your part for the planet.
Whether you’re looking for an affordable option or something more luxurious, both these brands have options that fit every budget and style preference.
So when planning your next vacation, don’t forget to check out what Horizn Studios and Paravel offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best size luggage for 7-day cruise?
A carry-on with a medium-sized 24-inch suitcase is sufficient for a comfortable 7-day cruise. However, if you’re a minimalistic traveler, you can get away with only a large carry-on.
How much luggage can you take on a cruise?
Most cruise lines recommend passengers limit their luggage to two suitcases per person, each weighing less than 50 pounds.
For cruises of 10 days or longer, up to two bags per person are advised. Remember that most large cruise lines offer laundry service. So two checked bags may be excessive for one person.
Each checked bag and carry-on bag should be at most 16 inches high by 24 inches wide.
The length of the bag is not a factor. For security screening purposes, all luggage should be unlocked.
In addition to suitcases, guests are also permitted to bring carry-on luggage onboard.
Each guest can carry their luggage on board or check-in luggage before boarding.
When it comes to the type of luggage, there is flexibility.
However, passengers are encouraged to bring a reasonable amount of personal property, including luggage, for their comfort and convenience.
It’s important to note that these are general guidelines and can vary depending on the specific cruise line.
Always check the luggage policy of your chosen cruise line before packing for your trip.
