Roll it on or pack it in with these trusted haulers.
Pelican Elite Vacationer
At more than $500 and weighing nearly 20 pounds, the 47-liter Elite Vacationer stops just short of being a rolling safe. Made of double-walled, high-impact plastic with hard-resin latches, it’ll withstand loads up to 1,500 pounds. Thanks to O-ring seals, it can be submerged for a half-hour in three feet of water; a waterproof valve maintains inner pressure.
Price $575
High Sierra RS Series 21.5″ Hardside Spinner
High Sierra’s well-priced carry-on ticks two essential frequent-flier needs: four wheels that spin 360 degrees, and a hard but pliable polycarbonate shell that won’t get crushed in the overhead or down below. It weighs a feathery eight pounds and features a combo lock and hardy zipper, should you overstuff.
Price $120
Aether Apparel Welded Duffel Large
No stitches to rip or leak here. Welded seams make this beautiful bag strong and waterproof, and the rubber bottom will endure many draggings. It’s plenty outdoorsy but lighter than others in its class. Sleeker, too—the heathered fabric is suitable for trips to Europe. Better if boats or slopes are involved.
Price $250
Cotopaxi Chumpi 50L Travel Duffel
What separates this unassuming canvas duffel from the others are all the clever hidden traits. The padded sling strap can be unclipped and stored, and the backpack straps stow under flaps for a clean profile. An anti-snag zipper and water-shunning 100-denier-nylon liner make the Chumpi equally at home on B&B getaways and treks to the campsite.
Price $120
Osprey Shuttle 36″
This 130-liter suitcase has you covered from city apartment to the start of a Himalayan expedition. The main chamber is nearly cavernous enough to fit a set of golf clubs, and high-clearance wheels roll across choppy ground. But a bag this big needs protection, which the Shuttle—with ballistic-nylon accents and padded sidewalls—has in spades.
Price $320
Peak Design Everyday Messenger
Peak Design may have created the perfect crossover messenger-camera bag. The Everyday’s many smart touches include customizable dividers to organize cameras and lenses and a waterproof zipper on the laptop pocket. But our favorite feature is the MagLatch system, which secures the top panel shut with magnets, so hands are free to get the shot.
Price $250