safari suitcase small size

Best Duffle Bag & Luggage for African Safari Travel in 2024

Choosing what type of bag to take on your safari can depend on where you are going, what you are doing ( climbing Kilimanjaro or flying in small bush planes) and how long you are staying. Different regions have different luggage requirements and restrictions depending on what type of air transport is being used. Recently rolling duffel bags with a hard bottom frame and wheels have become quite popular. Now while this sort of bag is fine for many safaris, it won’t work on most safaris in Botswana and Zambia where the hard frame and wheels can’t be squeezed into the tiny luggage compartment in the belly of the Cessna. A traditional duffel bag or a completely soft-sided bag with wheels is appropriate in these situations (see the Swissgear bag below).

As frequent travelers to Africa, we’re sharing some of our favorite safari bags below. All of these bags qualify as carry-ons and are about the right size for keeping within the strict weight limits of most small plane flights in Africa (33 or 44 pounds per person and a maximum size of 10 inches wide, 12 inches high and 24 inches long).

For more packing recommendations, view our Safari Packing List and our Amazon Store .

Herschel Novel Duffel Bag & Herschel Supply Co. Sutton Mini

Herschel bags are favorites of our Journey Specialists. The Mini is a nice pick for travelers comfortable traveling very light, as it’s only 12.5″ wide. The Classic duffel is 20.5″ wide and holds 42.5L. The Classic duffle also has a removable padded shoulder strap, though you won’t be carrying your own bag while on safari. The Mini currently sells for $65 and the Classic is $90.

Eagle Creek Medium

Eagle Creek is another staff favorite and one of our most affordable picks, as it currently sells for $80. The medium bag is made of bi-tech fabric, making it extra durable and water-resistant, but only weighs 30 oz. There is also an extra storage pouch that you can use as an internal packing pocket for items you’d like to keep separate.

Swissgear Large Lightweight Rolling Duffel

For those looking for a wheeled duffel bag, we recommend the Swissgear Large Lightweight Rolling Duffel . Kent has bought many of these over the years for his family and himself and takes one every time he goes to Africa. This is a true rolling duffel in that it can be packed down – there’s no frame so this bag is ideal for flying safaris in Southern Africa. This bag is 24 inches wide, but the wheels and handle do add weight compared to the lighter weight duffel options above. This bag is 6.3 pounds empty, which will take away from packing weight for safaris that have luggage weight restrictions. It currently sells for $188.

Filson Medium 25″ Duffle Bag

Our top pick for a higher-end duffle is the Filson Medium 25″ Duffle Bag . This high quality bag is constructed with water resistant rugged twill and durable bridle leather. It also has two interior pockets and a removable shoulder strap. It’s currently priced at $380.

Be sure to check with your Journey Specialist about specific requirements for your safari before purchasing your bag. Also, check out our packing list so you know you’re not overpacking or forgetting something!

Want to See Our Safari Packing List?

Updated March 2022

All products featured are independently selected by the Africa Adventure Consultants team. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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Best safari luggage – Duffel bags & backpacks for African travels

The best African safari luggage is completely different to the necessary luggage for a city trip or backpacking expedition.

There are some very unique conditions that make it important to choose specific safari luggage. This includes the dusty savanna, cramped buses, and a jam-packed Land Cruiser bouncing into the wilderness.

The single most important part of African travel is having a suitable bag . Everything else you can work out after you have arrived.

But what is the best luggage for an African safari? Is it a duffel bag or backpack? And if so, what are the best safari bags for your trip?

In this guide, we’ll detail everything you need to know .

Best Luggage for Travel to Africa: The Basics

An elephant does not care what you look like. Neither does a lion or even a safari guide .

So put the fancy clothes away and get practical . The wilderness simply isn’t a place for frivolities, and that starts with your safari luggage.

First, take a look at our detailed guide on what to pack for an African safari. In short – pack light and keep it simple .

Why? Well, however you plan to travel in Africa, it’s going to be full, and there isn’t enough space for big safari luggage.

• Light aircraft safari flights have strict 15 kg baggage weight limits.
• Safari vehicles are generally designed for off-roading and don’t have much space for luggage.
• Travel on public transport, and you must be comfortable carrying your own luggage, including walking with it for more than a kilometer.

On an African adventure, you will be moving from place to place. On many safaris, you go to a different camp every day.

So there isn’t even time to unpack everything. Just take the basics and stay practical – this isn’t a fashion statement!

It doesn’t help if you are a wizard at folding safari clothing into crease-free, super-flat, super-organized piles. If your safari luggage is a complete dinosaur, it’s going to be disastrous.

And all the skillful arrangement adds up to nothing if your bag weighs more than King Kong with the Empire State Building in his left hand and a distressed blonde in his right!

What is the Best Luggage for Safari?

It is important to choose the right luggage for your African safari. This way, you can ensure the safety of all your belongings , whether on the plane, bus, or the savanna.

As mentioned above, you will need to pack light. And in addition to sticking to the strict weight limits, the bag should be able to hold all your clothing and gear .

Chances are you’ll need to pack several layers for those warm days and cold nights. You may also need space for your camera equipment .

Luckily, there are many lightweight duffel bags and backpacks that fit the bill. Below is a breakdown of the best safari duffel bags, backpacks, and travel bags for your next African adventure.

Best duffel bag for safari

Soft-sided luggage for safari is a must , and there are many duffel bags that offer exactly that. They are also spacious enough to store up to a week’s worth of clothing and toiletries, along with your other safari gear.

Depending on which African safari you’re visiting, it may help to look for a technical duffel bag .

These travel bags have unique features that can help a ton when out in the wilderness. Common features include a water-repellent shell and detachable straps .

But what is the best duffel bag for an African safari? Top brands to look out for include The North Face, Travelpro, and Red Oxx .

Best backpack for safari

While duffel bags are the preferred pick, backpacks are good too – especially if you’re going on a walking safari through Mana Pools National Park or elsewhere in Africa.

Like duffel bags, backpacks for safari need to be light , durable , and compressible . They also need to have enough pockets and compartments to store your belongings securely.

Backpacks also make for a good secondary bag. As such, opt for a roll-top as these can easily fit into your larger duffel bag during your flight and transfer. This way, you’re getting the best of both worlds.

What is the best safari backpack? Recommended picks include the Saddleback Leather backpack and the Targus Drifter.

Other safari travel bags

In addition to your safari duffel bag or backpack, there are a few other luggage items you may want to bring along.

These items are fanny packs , dopp kits , and camera bags . Each of these can easily fit into a larger bag and can come in hand when on a safari.

Remember to only bring these along if necessary as you might need the extra space.

How to Pick the Best Luggage for African Safari

Let’s recap on the conditions, especially if you haven’t been on a safari in Africa.

On an African safari, you will be driving off-road , often on arid landscapes shrouded in dust. If it’s not dusty, it will probably be muddy.

Take a holiday at an all-inclusive beach resort, and you only use your luggage once – to get from your home to the resort.

In Africa, you will be on the move .

Whether public or private transport, flights or local buses, all that moving means things will spill, and your safari luggage is going to get dirty .

There are usually two options when it comes to what to wear on holiday. Change your clothes every day, or change your destination every day instead.

As you regularly move between destinations, you won’t need lots of luggage . And don’t worry if your clothes are a little sweaty or dust-stained. You will look more out of place in incredibly clean clothes.

It’s going to be hot, probably very hot. You will be battling against humidity. If it’s the rainy season, you and your luggage will get drenched.

These can be tough conditions, so the fundamental principle of all safari luggage is to make it easier for yourself .

In addition to knowing what the best bags for exploring in the wild are, here is how to choose safari luggage . These are sure to make your African adventure easier and packing less challenging.

1. You need quality luggage for safari (but not designer or expensive)

The eternal conundrum is whether to head for an exclusive luggage shop or select the cheapest , most rubbish piece of safari baggage available at a local supermarket.

Airline baggage controllers do not distinguish between designer labels and care not for price tags. Your bags get completely stuffed up, whether you paid a small fortune or got them in the bargain bin.

Your bag will be treated like a bag of potatoes by the majority of the people who handle it, from baggage controllers to local bus boys squashing your carefully labeled luggage next to some chickens and maize sacks.

Be warned – fragile stickers don’t work , especially not when you are on safari.

Spending hundreds or thousands on Louis Vuitton’s finest or the very latest Antler miracle is not a wise thing. And the cheapest safari luggage won’t live up to the demands of traveling in Africa.

So go for a good , middle-of-the-road bag – the “iSpot” duffel bag range from Travelite is a recommended choice. They are durable and inexpensive.

iSpots are soft , relatively light, and have a built-in wheely handle so you can pull them along the road and runway when necessary.

iSpots have concealed zips , which all have locking facilities on them (so many lightweight safari bags only have locking docks on their main zips and not on side pockets).

They are hard-wearing , rugged , and spacious enough for two-week trips in Africa. The seams won’t rip and dispose of half your belongings onto a buffalo -covered savanna.

2. Safari travel bags should be soft

In Africa, there is plenty of space for elephants to charge around. But there is not enough space for luggage.

Keeping your weight below 15 kg is important. Your safari luggage needs to mold and squeeze into any available space.

Solid-state suitcases may be good for European city trips, but they are completely impractical for Africa .

These massive, stainless steel megalodons are too bulky, do not stack neatly, and take up too much unnecessary room.

African safaris require soft , squishy bags that can squeeze into small spaces. As previously mentioned, duffel bags are perfect for this.

Backpacks are also a good choice, provided they don’t have a protruding and inflexible frame.

So let’s recap. The perfect safari luggage is light , squishy , hard-wearing , rugged enough for the dusty African savanna , and spacious enough for the safari essentials.

3. Reduce the volume of your safari bag

That aside, you should also take the volume of your bag into account. A 70-liter capacity is around average.

There are some excellent duffels out there , especially those designed for diving or adventure pursuits, which offer more space.

Coming in at $14.95, you get what you pay for with a duffel bag like this. It may last one trip if you are lucky!

But remember that a tightly packed soft bag is better than a loosely packed one because it keeps your belongings from rolling around and getting damaged.

It also prevents your cosmetics bag from getting a bang and leaking its contents all over your clothes.

Some duffel bags have straps that can compress the contents inside. These are ideal, as you can start light and still compress. Then you can expand it if you end up purchasing half a bag of souvenirs.

4. Other key considerations for the best luggage for safari travel

A wet bag is a great idea for cosmetics. Don’t buy an expensive one. You can use a run-of-the-mill high-street supermarket bag and tie the handles up tight to prevent unwanted spillages.

Consider decanting things like shampoo and moisturizer into small containers, or buy them in small bottles, to begin with.

The Body Shop , for example, has some great small bottles of products that are ideal for traveling. This reduces volume.

Your choice of safari luggage is peculiar to you and your needs , what you want to put in it and where you are going.

Whether you spend a lot of money on it or not, just make sure that it is secure with decent locks or, failing that, cable ties.

When flying, never put anything of value in it (jewelry, cameras, computers, cell phones, etc.).

And if it gets damaged by an airline’s baggage handler, make sure you stand up for your rights and get it either repaired or replaced.

Where to Take Your Safari Luggage

Having the right safari luggage can make or break your trip. But with this guide, you now know what to take and how to take it. So all that’s left is to go out and explore !

There are endless opportunities for a wild adventure in different locations – South Africa , Botswana , Namibia , Zambia , Zimbabwe , Tanzania , Kenya , Uganda , and gorilla trekking in Rwanda .

Hopefully, your safari luggage will keep you returning to Africa and experience as many incredible safaris as possible.

About The Author

Editorial Team

Related posts.

African safari packing list – What to bring on a trip to Africa

Best safari clothing: brands, clothes & tips for African safaris

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The Best Safari Luggage

By Mara Balagtas and Lale Arikoglu

Choosing the right luggage for a safari can make or break the trip: One day, you might be rumbling along Botswana’s lush delta with nothing to protect your camera, and the next, you're boarding a tiny domestic aircraft that prohibits all suitcases with wheels. You'll need to pack light to adhere to strict weight limits, but still invest in something that can hold enough layers for warm days and cool nights, as well as a bag to hold all your gear while actually out on a game drive. Here, our picks of the best luggage to take on safari—from camera bags and dopp kits to backpacks and duffels.

All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

A backpack is going to be your best friend when you're out on a game drive all day. Choose one with plenty of pockets and compartments to hold everything from a change of clothes, to camera batteries, to sunscreen, and if you can, go for a roll top version that can be stashed away in your larger duffle when you don't need it.

Tumi Alpha Bravo Tyndall backpack ($495, saksfifthavenue.com ); Hobo River backpack ($298, hobobags.com ); Marni backpack ($1,090, eastdane.com ); Fjallraven Split Pack weekender bag ($175, backcountry.cocom ); Oakley roll top backpack ($93, amazon.com ); Herschel Supply Co. Heritage backpack ($65, herschel.com ).

Classic Duffel Bags

"You're usually on rough terrain once outside of the international airport, so wheels are not that helpful on safari," says West Coast editor Rebecca Misner. And given that most safari camps are only accessible by small propeller planes, hard-sided luggage is a no-go. Instead, invest in a soft-sided duffle that's roomy enough to hold everything you need for the week, but still meets all the requirements of your jumper plane.

Paravel Grand Tour ($365, tourparavel.com ); Anya Hindmarch Bespoke Walton suitcase ($1,550, anyahindmarch.com ); Wool & Oak Duffel Suitcase ($425, woolandoak.com ); Hobo Zeppelin Duffel ($598, hobobags.com ); Filson Large Rugged Twill duffel bag ($425, filson.com ); Ghurka Cavalier canvas duffel bag ($1,295, ghurka.com ).

While you still need all your beauty essentials (there's cocktail hour back at camp, after all), you don't want a dopp kit that takes up too much space. Opt for a soft one that can be squeezed easily down the side of a bag.

Prada cosmetic pouch ($525, prada.com ); Hobo cosmetic pouch ($78, hobobags.com ); Dolce & Gabbana Necessaire nylon case ($415, us.dolcegabbana.com ); Louis Vuitton Toiletry Bag 25 ($745, us.louisvuitton.com ); Bottega Veneta Intrecciato beauty case ($580, bottegaveneta.com ); Filson wash bag ($125, filson.com ).

Technical Duffel Bags

On safari, you never know what the day will bring. Find a bag that has a water-repellant shell and detachable straps that allow you to sling it over your shoulder—or even transform it into a backpack—at a moment's notice.

Patagonia duffel ($129, patagonia.com ); Best Made Co. SWS 100L roll top duffle ($198, bestmadeco.com ); Herschel Supply Co. Outfitter luggage ($140, herschel.com ); Cotopaxi Chumpi travel duffel ($110, cotopaxi.com ); Burton Backhill duffel ($109, amazon.com ); Eastpak Perce duffel ($77, selfridges.com ).

Fanny Packs

Given that you've traveled thousands of miles to catch a glimpse of wildlife roaming free, you'll want your hands free to grab your camera at any given moment. Luckily, fanny packs are in vogue again—perfect for holding all your essentials.

VereVerto Convertible Mini Mox bag ($295, shopbop.com ); Patagonia Ultralight hip pack ($29, patagonia.com ); Clare V. belt bag ($345, nordstrom.com ); Marc Jacobs belt bag ($315, marcjacobs.com ); Paravel belt bag ($35, tourparavel.com ); Herschel Supply Co. 17 hip pack ($45, herschel.com ).

Camera Bags

You'll want a compact, sturdy bag to protect that new camera you splurged on. We love the Palma camera bag from ONA, which comes with a handy compartment to store your spare memory cards or lenses in.

Madewell camera cross body bag ($128, madewell.com ); Lo & Sons Claremont leather camera bag ($368, loandsons.com ); Ganni tech bag ($135, ganni.com ); Yeezy Season 6 crossbody bag ($119, endclothing.com ); ONA The Palma camera bag ($329, amazon.com ); Tumi Luanda Flight bag ($295, tumi.com ).

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London Flagship Store

Safari Luggage

AN ENTIRE CONTINENT OF INSPIRATION

From the Masai Mara to Kruger National Park, one cannot possibly describe the eclectic experiences to be had wherever you are in Africa. So we won’t even try. Instead we took inspiration from the safari adventure for this collection that features the best of a classic Globe-Trotter while paying homage to the 1920s era of exploration.

Safari Carry-On - 4 Wheels

Safari Large Check-In - 4 Wheels

Safari Medium Check-In - 4 Wheels

Safari XL Trunk

Safari Carry-On - 2 Wheels

Safari Large Check-In - 2 Wheels

Safari Medium Check-In - 2 Wheels

Safari Large Suitcase

Safari XL Suitcase

Safari Small Carry-On - 2 Wheels

Safari Air Cabin

Safari Mayfair

Pop Mayfair

Safari Attaché

Safari Small Attaché

Safari 12-Slot Watch Case

AN ENTIRE CONTINENT OF INSPIRATION From the Masai Mara to Kruger National Park, one cannot possibly describe the eclectic experiences to be had wherever you are in Africa. So we won’t even try. Instead we took inspiration from the safari adventure for this collection that features the best of a classic Globe-Trotter while paying homage to the 1920s era of exploration.

Our luxury safari luggage is available in iconic Ivory or Coffee Brown and accented with a natural leather trim designed to darken with age, developing a rich patina with every journey.

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Up to five years after purchase

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London Flagship Store

Safari small carry-on - 2 wheels.

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Delivery & Returns

International shipping is complimentary for all online orders including all import duties and taxes.

Dispatch We aim to dispatch orders within 2-3 working days.  However, it may take up to 5 weeks if the items you have selected are being made to order (please check dispatch time on the product page).

Please be advised, orders with personalisation can take up to 5 business days for completion. Delivery Estimated delivery times are a guide from the date of dispatch.

We offer complimentary FedEx delivery. Dispatched orders are normally delivered within 5 working days, between 9am and 6pm. If you require an item to be delivered to you sooner, please contact the store at  [email protected]   or +1 (323) 693-7950 before placing your order, and we will do our very best to accommodate your request. Tracking Once your order has been dispatched you will receive a FedEx email with your tracking code, so that you can monitor your delivery until it arrives. Import Tax Import duties and taxes are included in your total to make international shipping easier.

Returns & Exchanges

Online purchases Items purchased online may be returned for a refund or an exchange within 28 days of the order’s arrival, provided they are in perfect condition and with their original packaging and receipt intact.

Return shipping fees will be covered by the customer.

If you wish to return or exchange an item please contact our London Flagship store at +44 (0) 2075 295 950 or by e-mail at  [email protected]  or you can also visit our  contacts  page.

Bespoke and personalised items Please note that items that have been personalised or made to order (Bespoke) can be neither exchanged nor refunded. For more information about our Terms for Bespoke and personalised items, please visit our  Terms & Conditions  page.

Payment Options

All prices include free shipping and all duties and taxes paid.

Payments are accepted via credit card, debit card or PayPal. Accepted credit cards are Visa, Maestro, Master Card, AMEX.

Bank transfers are also accepted. Please call +1 (323) 693-7950 to arrange.

When placing your order, your billing address must be the exact same as the address of your credit card or we will not be able to process your order.

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Made to order and ready for dispatch within 3-4 weeks.

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Our hand-crafted items are made with the utmost care by our master craftsmen in our factory in Hertfordshire, England. Made-to-order products take time to craft, as each one is made by hand with precision and meticulous attention to detail.

We appreciate your patience as we work to create a one-of-a-kind item for you.

If you have any questions about the status of your order, please do not hesitate to contact us .

Product Details

The Small Carry-On may be our smallest suitcase but, handcrafted with the same attention to detail as every Globe-Trotter, it is perfectly formed. An ideal companion for a short business trip or weekend away.

This refined colourway from the iconic Safari collection is an undisputed modern classic in travel and beyond.

Size & Weight

Vulcanised Fibreboard

Lighter than aluminium and tougher than leather, Vulcanised Fibreboard is our unique proprietary material and is made from 14 layers of recycled paper bonded with zinc. 

The iconic leather corners of our cases take five days to craft and complete. And are moulded using time-honoured machinery for optimum strength and form.

It’s quite fitting that our durable handles are made entirely by hand. With the core materials bonded together for 48 hours before construction even begins.

Serial plaque

Each case is truly one of a kind, individualised with its own unique serial number. Find it on a metal plaque inside your case, and use it to track your movements around the globe.

The inside of your case is an ode to your individual character. Durable and water resistant, the luxurious inner lining is meticulously crafted and can stay suited to the bag or customised to feel individual to you.

Each case comes with carbon steel locks so you can travel with peace of mind. Turn to a North-South position to unlock and East-West to lock.

Shipping & Returns

Shipping is complimentary for all online orders including all import duties/taxes paid. 

In stock orders will be dispatched within 2-3 working days of receipt.  Made to Order items will take time to craft before they are ready for dispatch. Please check dispatch time on the product page for more information. 

Delivered within 2-5 days from dispatch.

Free 28 Day Returns

If you are not 100% satisfied with your order, products can be returned for a full refund or an exchange within 28 days of arrival.

Items that have been personalised or made to order (Bespoke/Custom) can be neither exchanged nor refunded.

To arrange a return, please contact us and we will arrange everything on your behalf. 

For more information, please review our Returns Policy .

Payments are accepted via credit card, debit card, Google Pay, Apple Pay, PayPal and PayPal Pay in 3. 

Accepted cards are Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Discover and Diners Club debit and credit cards.  

When placing your order, your billing address must be the exact same as the address of your credit card or we might not be able to process your order.

5 Year Warranty

Every Globe-Trotter suitcase and leather item comes with a five-year warranty, which is active from the date of purchase and covers defects in materials or workmanship.

Globe-Trotter is committed to making your experience truly unique. On top of our five-year warranty cover, you can also experience our outstanding in-house after-sales service whereby a member of the Globe-Trotter team will be available to guide you through any repair queries or care advice regarding your case.

To learn more about the 5 year warranty, please visit our Warranty page.

Product Care

Cleaning your globe-trotter case.

When cleaning the exterior of vulcanised fibreboard, you may use a soft pencil eraser to remove any marks. A soft cloth may also be used when moistened with a neutral detergent. Please take care to choose an appropriate cleaning fluid so as not to discolour the case exterior. Strong detergents or abrasive products are not recommended. Pre-testing on a small area is recommended before using any cleaning products on the entire surface of the suitcase.

Storing your Globe-Trotter case

As with all suitcases, Globe-Trotter cases are best stored in a cool, well-ventilated place. You should not store your Globe-Trotter where it could be exposed to direct sunlight, high temperatures or damp. Doing so may affect the shape and/or the paint finish. Please ensure that the case is not crammed into a space where deformation may occur and keep away from any objects made of plastic or vinyl that could deform at high temperatures. Doing so may cause damage to your suitcase as such objects could break down when exposed to heat and adhere to your suitcase.

For more information please visit our Product Care guide

We are here to assist you with any questions you may have. Please find the options available below to get in touch with us.

Email:  [email protected] Our customer service team will respond to your inquiries as soon as possible.

Phone: +44 207 529 5950   Our customer service team is available between 10-18:00 GMT.

Live Chat If you need an immediate response, you can use our live chat feature on our website found on the bottom right of your screen. 

We value your feedback and appreciate the opportunity to assist you. Thank you for choosing Globe-Trotter.

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The journal — stories from around the world.

F1 2024 Insider's Guide No. 05 – China

F1 2024 Insider's Guide No. 04 – Japan

The name’s Bond, Bonding Holiday

Worldwide shipping

Complimentary on all orders

Secure payments

For all major credit/debit cards

Up to five years after purchase

Easy returns

Free returns for up to 28 days

Select Shipping Destination

You currently have no items in your bag

Safari Luggage

Safari luggage designed for Africa, made for the world. Choose from our range of customisable, deconstruct-able, soft, squashable, dependable, and always safarified luggage for travel and every day. A safari essential designed for Africa, made for adventure and the everyday too.

• Trousers & Shorts
• Jackets & Fleeces
• Safari Hats
• Beanies & Scarves
• Dresses & Skorts
• Shoes & Boots
• Socks & Ankle Gaiters
• Holdalls & Duffle Bags
• Weekenders & Carry-ons
• Backpacks, Satchels & Small Bags
• Toiletry Bags for Travel
• Totes & Champagne Coolers
• Business bags
• Luggage Trolley
• Pannier Bags
• Pet Feeders
• Locks & Scales
• Gift Vouchers
• Books & Maps
• Multi-tools
• Insect Repellent
• Torches (flashlights)
• Straps & Mounts
• Trophy Cameras
• Binocular Photography
• Cleaning Kits
• Essential Accessories
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Adaptors
• Evenings, Outdoor & Travel Clothing
• Outdoor, Travel & More
• Safe drinking water
• Rufiji™
• Mara&Meru™
• The Safari Store

Technologies

• Wicking & QuickDry
• Insect Protection
• Sun Protection
• Anti-bacterial
• BUGTech™
• Elasticated cuff
• Bonded Fleece
• Security Pocket
• Roll-up sleeve tabs
• MaraTech™
• Feminine cut
• Blister Protection
• Protect Yourself
• Sunglasses Loop
• SAFARITech™

Safari Backpacks, Satchels & Small Bags Read our Safari Backpacks, Satchels & Small Bags Advice Guide

• You will need a smaller safari bag to take with you on all safari activities - whether a few hours or a few days - including game drive safaris, walking safaris, horse riding safaris, mountain biking safaris, boating safaris, fishing safaris, canoeing safaris, and mekoro (dugout) safaris.
• Into this smaller safari bag will go any number of safari essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, binoculars, waterproof jacket (assuming you are wearing your warm-layer safari jacket or fleece), a safari beanie, any books you want to take on safari with you, water bottle, perhaps your passport if you prefer to keep it with you - and any other personal effects you want to take with you on safari.
• The nature of your safari will determine which bag - or bags - you decide to take with you on your safari. For example, if you are only planning on going on game drives, then you will be fine to take any safari satchel, safari backpack, safari tote, or over-the-shoulder safari bag as you will just be walking with it from your room to the safari 4x4 and then placing it on the seat next to you. If you also want to do walks from the lodge (recommended), then you would need a safari satchel or safari backpack and, if you are on a proper walking safari, then you would need a safari satchel or safari backpack which you are happy to have over the shoulder or on your back for many kilometres or miles of walking.
• Your choice of smaller safari bag (or bags) could and should also double as your safari carry-on bag for flights to and from Africa. If you prefer a larger carry-on to carry some clothes, then take this bag in addition to your carry-on. Some brands of holdall/duffel luggage - such as the Mara&Meru™ Voyager range - also allow you to zip and lock the ideal safari satchel-backpack combination bag as an end pocket on to your main safari bag, which means that you simply unzip it when you get to your safari to use it as your smaller safari bag. That way you are able to check it into the aircraft hold for your international flight to Africa.

Number of smaller safari bags to pack for your safari: 1 x smaller safari bag per person.

The Rufiji Safari Explorer Satchel in Safari Tan

The rufiji safari explorer satchel in classic khaki green, rufiji™ black - the satchel in black, mara&meru™ 3-in-1 satchel, backpack, pocket (adjustable depth), mara&meru™ 4-in-1 camerabag, satchel, backpack, pocket in safari tan & leather, mara&meru™ selous satchel, limited edition: mara&meru™ full leather satchel & pannier in brown, mara&meru™ canvas & leather 3-in-1 safari pannier bag in safari tan, safari holdalls & duffle bags read our safari holdalls & duffle bags advice guide.

• For your main large safari duffel or safari holdall, choose safari luggage which is soft and squashable and which has no frame. This is especially true for safari travel to Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania, and Kenya and the reason for this is rather a practical one. The majority of safari lodges and camps within these countries are accessible only by light aircraft. As a result, in order for your pilot to fit your luggage into the small, cramped hold, your luggage must not have hard sides, nor rigid frames or structure, and should rather be soft-sided so that the pilot is able to fit (squash) your bag into the plane. The same is true for some overland and expedition-style safaris where there will be limited space for luggage in the safari 4x4.
• Please check with the safari company you have booked with about luggage limitations for the internal flights on your safari, as the requirements may vary from safari to safari. Where luggage weight limitations are specified please note that - as the maximum take-off weight in any aircraft has to be strictly adhered to by pilots to maximise your safety on each flight - you may find that your pilot will not be able to take any luggage over the maximum allowed weight per passenger. In this instance, you may have to pay for your luggage to be flown separately.

Number of large, soft-sided safari bags to pack for your safari: 1 x large safari duffel or holdall bag per person.

The Rufiji™ Traveller Canvas Safari Duffle Bag in Safari Tan

The rufiji safari explorer ii - canvas & leather safari duffle bag in safari tan, mara&meru™ southern cross safari voyager iii duffle bag, the luggage protector, the luggage protector x-large (voyager suit bag & traveller duffels) in khaki tan, the luggage protector x-large (voyager suit bag & traveller duffels) in safari tan, mara&meru™ safari voyager iii duffle bag in safari tan, mara&meru™ safari voyager iii duffle bag with built-in suit bag in safari tan, safari totes & champagne coolers, mara&meru™ leather safari companion bag in sable brown, the sandstorm medium safari tote in mocca, safari toiletry bags for travel read our safari toiletry bags for travel advice guide.

• Most safari luggage does not have a built in area for a safari washbag - mind you, not many bags do - and so you should keep your toiletries separate to your clothes by using a safari washbag.
• If you prefer to travel with your own soap, then please select one of our washbags which comes with a wooden soap box so that you don't get soap on your toothbrush.

Number of safari washbags to pack for your safari: 1 x safari washbag per person.

The Rufiji Safari Explorer Travel Toiletry Bag in Safari Tan

Mara&meru™ canvas & leather selous travel toiletry bag in safari tan, mara&meru™ leather selous travel toiletry bag in brown, safari gifts under £50, the rufiji™ leather safari moneyclip in brown, safari pet feeders, woof-meow portable dog cat pet bowl bag (large) in safari tan, woof-meow portable dog cat pet bowl bag (small) in safari tan, safari weekenders & carry-ons read our safari weekenders & carry-ons advice guide.

• These weekender and carry-on bags are ideal for short trips away and for use every day. They may also be used for very short safaris and adventure travel.
• If you are looking for a bag which is suitable for both short and long trips then please look no further than our Voyager range . These bags all adjust from weekender sized bags to large duffels - simply by zipping on end pockets. You get to decide which version of the bag to take on your next adventure.
• A soft and squashable bag is a safari packing essential.

Number of weekender bags to pack for your short trips and safaris: x1

The Sandstorm Leather Odyssey Safari Bag in Tan

The sandstorm weekender in tan, safari locks & scales, tsa brass travel sentry, digital luggage scale, safari wallets read our safari wallets advice guide.

• Keeping all your travel documents, money and cards in a travel wallet makes good sense.
• While borders in African vary tremendously, they can be disorganised. The more disorganised the border the more organised you want to be.
• As always be savvy and keep some money and cards in another location just in case your travel wallet goes missing.

Number of travel wallets to pack: 1 per person.

Classic Safari Travel Wallet

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15 Best Safari Bags for your Next Adventure

Traveling on safari brings with it countless obstacles and situations that you need to be prepared for and having the right safari bags with you can help you to be ready, and to best enjoy your trip.

Safaris in Africa, Asia, or anywhere else in the world where you may choose to head off into the wilderness in search of wildlife, will ensure that you are encountering extreme weather conditions, be it rain, dust, mud, heat and cold, potentially all within the same day, so it’s imperative to choose safari bags that are able to withstand the worst that will be thrown at them.

There’s a lot more to reflect on too, and you’ll need to consider your style of travel, be it luxury safaris or budget safaris, expeditions, overland travel or charter plane flights.

Luckily, there are a lot of great safari bags out there to meet almost any requirements, and to help you decide what exactly you need, here’s our guide to buying the best products on the market.

Top 5 Best Safari Bags

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: Best Safari Bags

• Best OverAll Safari Bag: North Face Base Camp Duffel
• Best Budget Safari Bag: Osprey Packs Trilium 65 Duffel Bag
• Best Safari Bag for Women: Osprey Packs Fairview 70 Women’s Travel Backpack
• Best Safari Bag for Men: Osprey Packs Farpoint 70 Men’s Travel Backpack
• Best Woman’s Safari Bag for Hiking: Osprey Fairview 40  
• Best Men’s Safari Bag for Hiking: Osprey Farpoint 40
• Best Safari Duffel Bag: North Face Base Camp Duffel
• Best Safari Duffel/Backpack Bag: RAB Expedition Kitbag 80L Duffel Bag Blue 80L
• Best Safari Day Bag: Osprey Porter 46  
• Best Malti-Day Safari Bag: Osprey Packs Farpoint 70 Travel Backpack 
• Best Wheeled Safari Bag: Eddie Bauer Unisex-Adult Expedition Drop-Bottom Rolling Duffel
• Best Lightweight Safari Bag: Gonex 80L Packable Travel Duffle Bag
• Best Waterproof/Dustproof Safari Bag: North Face Base Camp Duffel
• Best Leather Safari Bag:   Komal’s Passion Leather 24 Inch Square Duffel Travel Safari Leather Bag
• Best Canvas Safari Bag:   Filson Medium Duffle – Waxed canvas
• Best Soft Side Safari Bag: Mountain Warehouse 90 Cargo Bag – 3 Ways to Carry All-Season Backpack Black
• Best Packable Safari Bag: Gonex 80L Packable Travel Duffle Bag

What Type of Safari are You going on?

The first thing to think about when you begin delving into the vast world of safari bags is what type of safari you are actually going to be going on. Different types of bags will be more suited for different types of safari, and the season you will be traveling.

If you are traveling across Africa in the rainy season, you will want to make waterproofing a priority. If you are a wildlife photographer and have a lot of equipment, you will want to ensure that your safari bags will provide adequate protection against dust and the elements.

Luxury travelers may want to ensure they have a fashionable yet durable bag that looks the part at their remote bush camp, while backpackers opting for cheaper safaris may want to have a more practical hiking or duffel bag to cope with the stress of long-distance, overland travel.

Practicality vs Style

Practicality vs style then is another important consideration to make. There are a lot of classic, leather-bound carry bags on the market that wouldn’t look out of place in the late Victorian era, and while they might look stylish, you might want to determine if it is the best fit for you.

Some of the most practical bags, however, won’t look the most stylish, but you can find some quality safari bags produced by outdoor companies as kit bags, that are suitable for almost anything.

Colour and aesthetics, while they may seem trivial, can be an important part of the buying process. Many bags that are specifically aimed at safari-goers may be brown, beige or green in color, to almost blend in with the classic safari environment.

Some travelers though, find it is more practical to have a brightly colored bag that they can actually find quickly amongst piles of other luggage when traveling by bus or plane.

Size Considerations

The size of your chosen safari bags will come down to a number of factors, but the most important thing to note is that your luggage needs to be suitable for air travel.

Likely, you will arrive at your destination via air, and if you are planning on visiting remote, luxury camps in the African savannah, then getting there will generally involve flying in small, charter aircraft that are very restricted by weight and size requirements.

Don’t overpack, and make sure your luggage fits the airline requirements. If you travel light and hand luggage only, then ensure your backpack or duffel is in line with ever-changing airline restrictions.

If you are planning on traveling overland as part of your safari, or are planning it as part of a wider trip, then you may want to choose a bag that is easy to carry around, that can fit in luggage compartments, or that you can easily walk around with.

Again, the size will depend on your individual requirements, but just remember, when you are on safari, it’s always best to pack light.

Material and Durability

The material that your safari bags are constructed from can make the difference between a terrible bag and a bag that will last you a lifetime of traveling.

You may want to invest in a waterproof bag , or at the very least be able to attach a rain cover to the outside, particularly if it is a backpack that you might be walking around with.

Luxury travelers may want to invest in specialized leather or canvas bags that not only look the part at your safari lodge in the wilderness but that will also be water-resistant and durable.

In the long run, unless this is a one-off trip, you will be better off investing money into quality products that will last. You don’t want your bag falling apart mid-flight, or on the taxi ride out of the airport, after all, you want it to last a lifetime.

Bag straps are another important aspect that you don’t want to overlook. If you are just traveling from one point to the next then you might be fine with just a holdall that you can pick up with one handle.

If you are hiking, backpacking or walking around a lot, then you’ll want to make sure your safari bags have adequate support, be it comfortable back straps, or even waist or chest straps to take the weight off your shoulders.

Many kit bags now come with a versatile number of straps, allowing you to instantly transform your handheld duffel bag into a backpack or a single strap, shoulder-worn bag.

You will also want to look at the number of pockets and different compartments that your bag has. If you purchase a basic duffel or kit bag, then the number of compartments is usually restricted to one open space, which can be fine if you aren’t too fussy.

If you want to separate your dirty laundry and your wet towels from your fresh, clean clothes, then this isn’t going to be an ideal situation.

As well as separate compartments you may also want safari bags that allow you space and different pockets for being organized. For instance, you may want pockets for toiletries, for your chargers and batteries, for your passport, or for your socks. The opportunities are quite endless really.

Best Types of Safari Bags and Product Recommendations

There is a great selection of safari bags out on the market right now, catering to all budgets, styles, designs, and needs. Here are a few of the most versatile types of bags to think about selecting for your trip, and a few specific product recommendations too.

Duffel Bags

Duffel bags and kit bags are great all-rounders that are perfect for the frugal traveler on a budget , making multiple, and varied trips each year. Modern kit bags can be incredibly versatile, with waterproofing, different outside straps that can be arranged to carry the bag how you feel is best or most appropriate for the situation, and a high level of resilience. 

Some of the best are made by outdoor companies and can come in many different capacities, from 40 liters up to 120 liters. The North Face makes excellent, quality, and great value kit bags, as do Rab , Mountain Warehouse and increasingly, many more well known outdoor brands too.

The Top Five Best Safari Duffel Bags:

• North Face Base Camp Duffel
• RAB Expedition Kitbag 80L Duffel Bag Blue 80L
• Mountain Warehouse 90 Cargo Bag – 3 Ways to Carry All-Season Backpack Black
• Osprey Packs Transporter 65 Expedition Duffel/Backpack
• Osprey Packs Trilium 65 Duffel Bag

Hiking Bags

Hiking bags are another fantastic, versatile choice that has long been the favored luggage-style of backpackers across the world. They can make for perfect safari bags, particularly if you are planning on hiking, or have an extended trip that will also take you on other adventures too.

Hiking bags come in many different sizes, with large capacities suitable for remote expeditions and small capacities which can make for perfect day hiking bags and carry-ons when flying.

Hiking bags have the added bonus of being designed for the outdoors, and if you pick a quality brand, you can also get lifetime warranties on your kit.

Osprey is a favorite amongst travelers, and they offer not only excellent hiking bags but also hybrid bags that cater to backpackers. Great examples are the Osprey Farpoint or the Osprey Transporter .

While you can get incredibly cheap hiking bags from sports outlets, it’s also best to invest in a quality product, with guarantees and reputation if you want it to last.

The Best Safari Hiking Bags:

• Osprey Farpoint 40  –  Men’s Best Safari Bag For Hiking
• Osprey Fairview 40  –  Women’s Best Safari Bag For Hiking
• Osprey Porter 46

Vintage Bags

Some of the most popular safari bags amongst luxury travelers or short terms holidaymakers are vintage bags. Not only do they look the part, but the best ones are made of quality leather or canvas, that is rugged, durable and able to stand up to the harsh requirements of the savannah while also looking great in the city.

Classic style safari bags are not for everyone, however, and they will be limited as to the variety and diversity of travel situations that they are handy in, but if you want a fashionable way to carry your luggage, then these are the bags for your safari.

Great vintage options include the excellent leather duffel bag by Komal , which retails at an incredibly affordable price, upwards to the canvas, bespoke designs from the likes of Ralph Lauren.

The Top Five Best Safari Vintage Bags:

• Travel Duffel Bag Waterproof Canvas or Leather  
• Filson Medium Duffle – Waxed canvas
• DRAKENSBERG Kimberley Long Weekender, canvas, buffalo leather
• Komal’s Passion Leather 24 Inch Square Duffel Travel Safari Leather Bag
• Komal’s Passion Leather 24 Inch Duffel Travel Gym Sports Overnight Weekend Leather Bag

Other Safari Items We Can Not Live Without?

Camera Gear: 

• Canon 6d DSLR Body
• Canon 100-400mm L Lens
• Canon ET-83C Lens Hood
• Canon 2x Extender
• OptiTech Sling Comfort Strap
• Rain Cover Coat Dust Proof Camera Protector (THIS IS A MUST)

Camera Bag:   Vanguard Alta Sky 45D .

Monopod: VEO2 AM-234 or the VEO CM-264 Carbon Fiber

Binoculars: Nikon Monarch 7   ( If you want to be able to spot and identify wildlife and birds then a good pair of safari binoculars are a must-have.)

• Cell Phone Binocular Adapter Mount (So you can take photos through your binoculars)

Safari Hat:  Panama Jack Men’s Mesh Safari Hat 

• Woman’s Safari Packable Khaki Summer Hat

Buff Headwear: BUFF Unisex Lightweight Merino Wool, Forest Night or  BUFF Unisex UV Multifunctional Headwear

Travel Insurance: Things can happen before your safari, while on your safari and after your safari while traveling home. Why not be protected with Travel Insurance? We have used Allianz Travel Insurance since our first trip together back in 2003. Simply use this link to get their travel insurance.

Not finding what you are looking for? Check out our favorite places to go shopping for travel gear.

• Shop Columbia – The industry leader in outdoor apparel and products; You can find anything from great jackets, gloves, hats, shirts, and travel pants.
• Shop REI – They offer some of the best outdoor gear around. We love REI since they have a year Love it or hate it no questions guarantee.
• Shop Moosejaw – Has a huge selection of outdoor gear at killer prices.

More on Travel Gear:

• 85 Best Travel Gifts for Travelers
• Best Sleeping Bag for Cold Weather – From Africa to Greenland
• Best Sleeping Bag Liners
• Best Drones For Travel From A Real Drone User
• Ultimate Travel Photography Gear List 
• Photography Gear Every Adventure Traveler Should Carry
• The Best GoPro Accessories for Adventure Travel
• 30 Best Travel Movies that Inspire Travel
• Best Travel Rain Jacket to Stay Dry on the Go
• A Man’s Travel Clothing Essential- Bluff Works Pants
• How To Wear A Buff Headwear – It’s Easy!
• Best Hiking Backpack for your Next Adventure
• Best Compact Binoculars for Outdoors & Travel
• Best Carry on Backpacks for Travel

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

2 thoughts on “15 Best Safari Bags for your Next Adventure”

Very informative article and i get to know about types of safari bags. Thanks for sharing.

Glad you found it useful, good luck in your search for a new bag!

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The best luggage for safari holidays.

Wherever you’re heading on your wildlife travels, picking the best luggage for safari is essential. 

Most safari companies specify a number of rules your safari luggage should follow, regarding the weight, material and features, in order to help it squeeze into cramped places in luggage compartments and your tent. 

But you also need to make sure it holds all your stuff… so what are we to do?! 

Never fear! I’ve done the research on the best bags to take with you, that not only fit your entire packing list but also meet all the requirements of the airlines AND look stylish too!

And remember, if you buy anything after clicking on a link in this post, you’re supporting my blog to keep bringing you unbiased safari luggage reviews like this one! 

Best safari holdalls and duffel bags

Most safari companies recommend a soft holdall case without wheels, as they’re easily squished into planes and onto the back of jeeps. 

If that’s what you’re after, read all about my favourite safari duffel bags right here:

Rufiji Canvas Duffel Bag

A traditional canvas holdall , available in two colour ways and holding an impressive 72 litres of stuff. 

Available exclusively from The Safari Store for £179. Use my code reallywildlife to get an awesome 5% off. 

This is a really stylish holdall in traditional safari colours, and there’ll be no mistaking your bag for another once it appears on the luggage carousel. 

It’s comfortable to carry (as long as you’ve kept within the weight limits!) using the short grab handles, as well as the longer over-the-shoulder strap. 

The zipper opens up really wide, allowing you to see all your belongings quickly and easily.

These bags can be pricey once you’ve already shelled out for the safari itself, but if you go on safaris fairly often, it’s a great investment for the future. 

There are no internal pockets at all, meaning everything is in the same main area when you open it. This isn’t necessarily a problem for everyone, but if you like to be organised and STAY organised, consider a few packing cubes to help. 

>> Click here to buy !

Rab Kit Bag II 80L

One of the largest options on our list of the best safari luggage, this rugged bag has plenty of room for up to 80L of your stuff.

Find it online at Cotswold Outdoor (UK) from £80.  

Despite the amount of stuff it can carry, the Rab kit bag is really easy to transport. Its detachable shoulder straps allow you to wear it like a backpack, while the 4 other handles give you the option of carrying it in many other ways too. 

It’s made from a very hard-wearing and water-resistant fabric, making sure your belongings stay safe and dry no matter how they’re squeezed into luggage compartments or thrown around by luggage handlers!

It’s a matter of personal preference, but I don’t find this bag to be particularly stylish. It’s a bog-standard style only available in a couple of muted colourways, so it doesn’t spark joy as much for me as other brightly coloured choices!

North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag

This medium-sized duffel bag is an iconic choice, offering 71L of space and a classic design.

You can find this holdall in lots of other colourways and sizes at Cotswold Outdoor (UK) for £120. 

The classic North Face holdall is hard-wearing and durable, while also being made from water-resistant, recycled materials. This makes it a sustainable and practical choice too. 

The large interior with a mesh pocket offers plenty of space for your clothes, while a separate compartment on the end can be used to store shoes or dirty laundry while travelling. 

It’s very easy to carry thanks to its flexible and adjustable straps, meaning you can wear it comfortably like a backpack or use the padded side handles to carry as a holdall. 

It’s genuinely difficult to find a con for this one; there are plenty of reasons to choose it as your next safari holdall, which may make it difficult to spot yours on the luggage carousel amongst many lookalike bags. It’s a very popular choice! 

Best wheelie cases for taking on safari 

Though bags with wheels aren’t always recommended, they do make carrying your luggage a whole lot easier! 

My favourite safari suitcases are right here: 

Craghoppers 28” Wheelie Bag

A soft wheelie case , bursting with features and 70 litres of space for all your safari essentials. 

Buy direct from Craghoppers , where two of the colours are currently on sale for £136.50. 

This wheelie bag has tons of space in the main compartment, as well as a number of internal pockets to keep you organised when travelling. If you manage to fill the cavernous 70-litre interior, the wheels on this bag will make navigating through airports and the bush a breeze. 

The soft fabric is made from 19 recycled plastic bottles, so it boasts eco-credentials too. But that doesn’t make it any less secure:  it’s been designed to be slash-resistant for extra security! 

Yes, I’ve already listed the fact this bag has wheels as a pro. However, not all safari companies or airlines recommend bags with wheels as they can be more difficult to fit into the hold on small aeroplanes. That said I have seen wheelie cases being used widely across Africa – just make sure you do your research first.

Osprey Sojourn 60 Travel Pack 

The most suitcase-like bag on our list is packed with features and flexibility, from one of travel’s most widely recognised brands.

Choose between two different colourways from Cotswold Outdoor (UK) for £275.

This bag is incredibly flexible. Thanks to its wheeled chassis, walking through airports will be a breeze. And when you don’t have the option to use the wheels, pick the bag up and carry it like a backpack with its shoulder straps. 

At 60L, it’s not the largest bag on our list, but various compartments and mesh pockets will keep your clothes, toiletries and accessories safe and secure. Even if you overpack, the compression straps help you maximise capacity and meet any limits on dimensions. 

This bag is the most expensive bag reviewed so, naturally, the price will count against it. But if you’re after a well-made bag from a well-known brand, the Osprey Sojourn 60 is a great option. 

Despite the bag’s soft material, it is one of the most structured bags, particularly due to the plastic high road chassis that holds the wheels. That means it won’t be as flexible or as easy to squeeze into luggage compartments and you may get some disapproving looks from the pilot when loading. But the bag’s manoeuvrability is a worthy trade-off if your airline will allow it.

Cabin-friendly safari bags

Many safari-goers swear by keeping their luggage small and going with hand luggage only. This makes travel incredibly efficient, so consider these bags for your next trip:

Craghoppers 40L Holdall

A small but mighty backpack that’s compact enough to fit in the cabin but large enough to fit in plenty of stuff for a short break. 

Buy from the official Craghoppers site from £105. 

The small size means you’ll struggle to go over the weight limits imposed by small aeroplanes. It’s also incredibly comfortable to wear with adjustable straps that can be worn as a backpack or across your shoulder.

Despite its size, the holdall boasts lots of compartments to keep your laptop and tablet secure, as well as smaller internal organiser pockets so you won’t lose your essentials. 

The 40L interior won’t be big enough for long trips but is ideal if you’re committed to travelling with hand luggage only. Plus, many safari lodges offer laundry facilities so you can afford to take less with you.

——–

Whatever you’re looking for in a safari bag, whether it’s space, security or style, our unbiased reviews are designed to help you find it!

Anna is the founder of Really Wildlife. She's a 30-something lover of wildlife travel, vegetables and listening to the Lion King soundtrack on full blast.

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What luggage for safari?

Luggage weights on safari

Luxury safaris normally include light aircraft flights to minimise travel times and maximise enjoyment. You’ll get a great bird’s eye view of the scenery below, but your luggage will have to meet strict weight limits.

Typically on safari your baggage weight limit will be:

• 20kg (44lbs) in Southern Africa
• 15kg (33lbs) in East Africa

These limits are a total and include hand baggage as well as your main bag.

You shouldn’t need more than these limits since:

• Safari camps and lodges provide toiletries and towels
• Laundry can be done daily
• Dress on safari is casual throughout the day and into the evening

Bags have to fit into the luggage pod on a light aircraft. If you do need a higher luggage limit – generally something only really required by photographers with multiple camera bodies and long lenses – you can buy an extra seat on the light aircraft to make things more flexible.

Main bags for safari

The key restriction is that, on safari, bags must be strictly soft sided bags only, no wheels or frames (don’t worry about not having wheels as there are trolleys at airports and someone to carry your bag to your room or tent in the safari camp).

Bags have to fit into the luggage pod on a light aircraft flying between safari camps and lodges. When the flight is full, bags often require a shove to squeeze them in.

‘Weekender’ leather safari luggage by Sandstorm Kenya 57 x 19 x 39 cm (22.4 x 7.5 x 15.4 inches)

Size restrictions are seldom explicitly defined, since the weight restriction generally means you only need a ‘medium bag’, but aim at something no bigger than the following:

• 62cm (24 inches) long
• 30cm (12 inches) high
• 25cm (10 inches) wide

In terms of ‘capacity’ this size is likely to be around 70 litres.

Day pack for safari

For many people on safari, their hand luggage on the international flights becomes their day pack to take out on a safari vehicle or when walking. Obviously, if you are going to walk with it, a small rucksack is easier than a tote bag.

Wayo Fly Camp walking safari with backpacks

Ideally your day pack is big enough to carry your camera and accessories (if you don’t have a big DSLR and a separate camera bag), a water bottle, sun cream, tissues and a portable battery charger.

Packing help

We’ve produced an interactive safari packing list, which asks three questions before tailoring a personal list for you based on destination, time of year and safari activities you’re undertaking. Click the link to try it out: Interactive Safari Packing List

Any questions?

If you’ve got this far and not found an answer to a question you have that we should have included, please ask in the comments section below, or pop us an email. We’ll be sure to reply and may amend the article to include our answer.

We would be delighted to help you plan a holiday, or answer any questions if you’re at an earlier stage. Our team of experts have travelled widely throughout Africa. They can offer expert advice on every type of safari from family and beach holidays to riding and primate safaris.  If you would like to talk to someone who has been there and done it, please just  send us an email  or  give us a call .

17 responses to “What luggage for safari?”

I’m going on a 7 day safari and then to a beach hotel for 7 days. What happens to my luggage for beach holiday whilst on safari?

Thanks for the question. Unless you have particularly heavy or bulky watersports equipment it would be normal to take it with you.

Can you please suggest some makes and models of duffle bags that match 62x30x25 as I am struggling to find this size?

Hi Adursh, thanks for your message. One of the team will be back in touch soon to try and help you with this.

I am struggling with fitting camera equipment and clothing for 14 days safari in a bag that weighs less than or equal to 33 pounds. Seems that bags either do one or the other. Camera bags that leave zero room for any clothing or a travel bag that has zero padding or dividers for equipment. Does anybody have a recommendation for a good bag that fills camera and clothing needs and is no larger than 28″X18″X10″?

I’ve asked around the office and got a quick reply from a couple of friendly photographers. Noone uses a single bag to achieve safety for their camera kit (they aren’t ever checking it in) and the rest of their luggage. Unless they only have a single day’s worth of clothes, they use two bags/cases/packs.

Hope you find a solution. Have a great trip.

Hi I would also like to get some recommendations on makes and models of bags measuring 62x30x25 as nothing I’ve seen matches this size. Thank you

Eva – bear in mind that luggage is fine if it can be ‘squashed’ to the sizes mentioned. The luggage pods of many light aircraft are an awkward shape. As long as the pilot can make your bag fit, your fine. Either a small bag absolutely full, or a bigger bag that’s half full and can be squashed to fit.

Travelling to South Africa this Oct 2023 . What do we do with our large cases . Staying in the Commodore Hotel first for a few days then on to Franschhoek for a few days then Whale watching. Before flying to Karegi for safari for 4 days then back to Belmond Mount Hotel . The cases are the problem. As the flight to safari is small . So any suggestions on what we do with cases please.

Dear Leslie We would offer our clients two options: (i) Pack less. Hopefully this doesn’t sound too obvious, but most people pack too much when they holiday. South Africa isn’t generally formal for meals and you can get laundry done everywhere. In most cases there is little reason to have more luggage than can go to a safari camp with you. (ii) Arrange for the cases you don’t need on safari to go direct to the next hotel. There would be a cost for them to be transported but most hotels have a storage area where they can look after them until you arrive. If you choose the second option, I hope your tour operator can make the arrangements for you.

Thank you Richard. Much appreciated

No problem at all Eva.

Might I presume that a Cotopaxi Allpa 35L travel pack, 22 x 10 x 12 inches would fit into the described baggage pod?

It sounds like an Osprey Porter 46 at 22 x 14 x 10 inches might be a bit too wide.

Good morning Alan, I will ask one of the team to get back in touch and they can help advise. Thanks Katy

Can I take a medium suitcase with wheels

Can it be a medium suit case for 8 days

Hi Katrina, thanks for getting in touch. It depends on where you are travelling to and whether or not you are taking internal flights. We would be more than happy to advise if you e-mail us direct – [email protected] . Thansk Katy

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Safari Ryder Gun Metal Trolley Bag With TSA Lock and Dual Wheels

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The Safari Ryder Trolley Bag is an epitome of sophistication in Gun Metal. This exquisite piece, available in cabin, medium, and large sizes, offers capacities of 49L, 83L, and 125L, respectively. Crafted for the discerning traveler, this luggage combines durability with style. Crafted with a strong Polycarbonate exterior it is built to last through many journeys. This durability is complemented by its TSA-approved lock and a pair of smooth-rolling wheels, ensuring both security and effortless movement. Inside, the bag's thoughtfully designed compartments allow for easy organization of belongings, streamlining the packing process and maximizing space efficiency. Who Should Consider This? Frequent flyers and style-conscious travelers will find the Safari Ryder Trolley Bag indispensable. Its sleek Gun Metal hue complements the professional aesthetic, while the organized compartments cater to those who value efficiency. Whether embarking on business trips or leisure escapes, this luggage meets diverse needs with its range of sizes and secure features. For those who seek reliability, style, and practicality in one package, it is a must-have accessory.

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Made with 100% virgin polycarbonate, this lightweight yet strong shell can withstand any journey

Size and Dimensions

Cabin- Dimension: 59 x 40 x 27 CM, Capacity: 49 L, Weight: 3 Kgs

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Imported/Manufactured by: Manufactured by Safari Industries (India) Ltd Address: 302-303, A Wing, The Qube, Sir Mathuradas Vasanji Rd, Marol, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400059 Manufacturing Addresses Country of Origin: India Net Quantity: 1

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Safari Packing List: Our in-depth guide what to bring on a safari

From clothes to camera gear & first aid kit

(Last Update: May 2024). Many of you have been inquiring lately what we pack for a safari , which essentials to bring and what to leave at home. The main question is: What do you truly need on a safari? And how can you manage to abide by the 15-20kg bush plane luggage weight limit in case you’re going on a fly-in safari (and that’s the total weight – including your carry-on and personal items)!

So here’s our absolutely essential, proven-in-detail, fully explained safari packing list with everything you need on a safari plus all our tips what you really don’t need.

Disclaimer: This post is written by a woman , who often travels solo or with her husband and no kids. This packing list might look a bit different for a man or very different for a family with kids. Also I’m a photographer and that is a priority on my packing list!

At the very end of this post you’ll find a FREE downloadable pdf packing list.

The clothes should be lightweight, durable and neutral coloured. And it’s all about layers!

Table of Contents

Safari packing list: Luggage

This is the first piece of advice: Unless you go on an ultra luxury safari without any weight or luggage limitations you should always bring luggage that works on bush planes , in open safari vehicles and on sandy paths in bush camps. So in essence: no hard case trolleys.

Instead it’s recommended to opt for duffle bags as they can easily be stowed – no matter if you travel by Mokoro boat or on a helicopter. As a bonus if they’re well made they have really durable zippers and close well, so no sand and dust can get into your bag. My luggage usually consists of:

• 1 x North Face duffle bag large (weighing about 10kg when fully packed, check-in luggage on long haul flights)
• 1 x North Face duffle bag small or 1 x sturdy large camera backpack (weighing about 5-8kg when fully packed). I use either of those as carry-on luggage on long haul flights and it’s mostly for my camera gear. If I use a the duffle bag I stow the gear in separate camera inlets. Usually there’s some extra space left in this bag for occasional souvenirs…
• 1 x small waterproof backpack or fanny pack (personal item). This is mostly for my travel documents, but I also use it for walking safaris to carry just some essentials (lip balm, small water bottle).

Safari packing list: Clothes

It’s important to note a few things before we jump into the details of my garment packing list:

• It doesn’t matter if my safari is 5 days or 3 weeks – I would always pack the same amount of clothes.
• Camps and lodges in the bush offer complimentary laundry services for everything except for your delicates (exceptions apply, but generally this is the rule).
• This means you essentially need 2-3 sets of clothes, because laundry can sometimes take 2-3 days to return (they might be hand washed and dried outside in many camps in lack of washing machines, so don’t bring your most fancy brand new items).
• The only item where I pack supply for more days is underwear, although most camps offer laundry detergent and so you can usually wash your delicates yourself by hand when in need.

My friend & travel buddy Kady is wearing our trusted Palladium boots here. And for cold mornings you should always bring a lightweight insulated jacket.

These are the garments i bring:.

• 1x lightweight insulated jacket (this is essential when travelling in the dry season = winter in many South African destinations, it gets cold at night!)
• 1x thin scarf (I use this to protect my neck from wind and sunburn)
• 1x thick scarf (this is a personal preference, but I love it and use it as pillow on planes and for very cold morning and evening game drives)
• 1x Long Cargo Pants (mine are relatively thin and are tapered at the ankles to avoid any insects to crawl in – this is only essential for walking safaris, not for game drives)
• 3x leggings (these are my go to “pants” on game drives – comfortable, easy to wear and wash, dry quickly. The only downside is that Tse Tse flies can bite you through those, but they literally bite through down jackets as well…)
• 2x long sleeve linen shirts (I wear these over sleeveless tops on warm days and just around camp for lunch etc.)
• 5x pairs of socks (high enough so you can put them over your tapered long pants to avoid ants crawling into your pants)
• 2x long sleeve wool under layers (I usually bring quick dry wool long sleeves on winter safaris to layer in the mornings and evenings)
• 2x short sleeve / sleeveless T-Shirts
• 1x pair of Sunglasses
• 2x hooded sweaters (one jersey and one cashmere hooded sweater – layered over the long sleeve shirts these are perfect for the chilly mornings and the hoodie helps me spare packing a wool beanie)
• 7x underwear
• 2x pyjamas (again, it gets cold at night and if you sleep in a tent or even a regular safari camp you’ll want to wear a pyjama. I bring 2 for a longer safari, so one can be washed at some point.)
• 1x pair of Palladium ankle high light linen boots (these are the perfect safari shoes for me. I wear them on cold days, for walking safaris, hiking, etc. – everywhere except for the rainforest)
• Alternatively: 1x pair of waterproof ankle high hiking boots (if I go on safari in Central Africa – think gorilla or chimp trekking and moist rainforest conditions)
• 1x pair of Birkenstock sandals (I use the Arizona Eva model, which is 100% plastic and therefore can be easily washed and doubles as my showering and outdoor bathroom shoes. Also this model doesn’t have nails in the soles, so I can pass through security without having to take them off – well, depending on the airport…)
• 1x safari hat with a wide brim (to protect your face and neck – especially for boat or canoe safaris!)
• 1x basecap (for walking safaris)
• Sometimes: 1x swimsuit (if I check into a lodge with a pool or combine my safari with a beach stay)

During the days it usually gets warm enough for linen shirts and t-shirts – even in winter.

Layering is essential on a safari – when we left in the morning we needed a jacket, on the plane we used them as pillows and when we landed it was warm enough for t-shirts and linen shirts., safari packing list: toiletries.

A short disclaimer here: I generally wear very little to no make-up, so this might read almost like a men’s toiletry bag. Of course you can add a few items if you prefer to have some glam in the bush . My experience is: You’ll be comfortable with less and less every day 🙂

Also it’s important to know that there’s countries that forbid the use of single use plastics (so think about this when you pack cotton swabs, floss picks, contact lenses, etc.). Everything that is packaged in single use plastics should be avoided if possible. I’ve listed a few alternative products below.

What’s in my safari toiletry bag:

• Sunscreen with SPF50 (try to bring environmentally friendly products, as your waste water will remain in the bush)
• Face Cleanser (this is one of my luxury products, but I can’t go to sleep without a proper face clean, even in the bush)
• Antioxidant (I’m trying to avoid sun damage to my facial skin, so this is also an essential for my face care routine)
• Tooth Brush (I even bring my electrical tooth brush, but that’s a very personal choice – since I travel so much I don’t want to compromise on my routine here)
• Deodorant (without perfume! You should never wear perfume on a safari, as animals have a very sensitive sense of smell and any unnatural scent can deter wildlife.)
• Tampons or your preferred feminine hygiene product (again: these will remain in the trash in the bush camps, so I use biodegradable organic cotton products. Personally I wouldn’t bring a menstrual cup on a safari as access to fresh water might be limited during the day when you’re out in the field, etc.)
• Biodegradable (!) dental floss (I use floss picks made from bamboo)
• Reusable ear swabs (I bought a washable one, that I use on safaris – it’s not perfect, but better than creating unnecessary waste.)

Toiletries that you don’t need to bring:

• Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion! All of these are provided in the camps (and they will make sure the products are biodegradable and do not damage the soil or create toxic waste water).
• Towels: Camps and lodges always provide fresh towels. Unless you’ll go camping individually or stay in rooftop tents etc., then I would recommend quick dry travel towels.

Safari packing list: Camera & Equipment

This is a special section for the photography enthusiasts among you. As a professional travel photographer I bring quite an extensive amount of equipment, but I still bring a lot less than the “real” wildlife photographers. Their luggage almost exclusively consists of camera equipment.

The main difference is that I rely mostly on zoom lenses , to keep the camera equipment down to a minimum. Wildlife photographers often bring prime lenses and then you need a lot more than me 🙂

Here’s what I bring to take photos and videos (and work):

• Nikon Z8 (my primary camera)
• Nikon Z6II (my secondary camera)
• NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 lens (for wildlife shots)
• NIKKOR Z 24-70mm 2.8 lens (for landscapes, portraits, travel shots)
• Optional: NIKKOR Z 70-200mm 2.8 lens (for wildlife & landscape combinations)
• 5x camera batteries (some days you might not be able to charge. Remember many safari camps don’t have power outlets in the rooms, but only at the main tent – so it’s always a bit of logistics to charge equipment.)
• 2x High speed memory cards with 512MB each (it gets very technical here, but I bring very fast ultra professional cards for each camera body with at least 1,700MB reading and 1,500MB writing speed – this makes the difference when it comes to high speed RAW shooting).
• 3x extra memory cards (still fast speed, but not as expensive as my main cards)
• 3x 1TB SSD hard drives (this is to make sure I can create duplicate back-ups during the trip.)
• 2x camera battery charger (to charge 2 batteries at once)
• Laptop + charger (this is only necessary for my photo back-ups and editing sessions. If I weren’t a photographer I would probably leave my laptop at home on a safari, there’s often no internet anyways.)
• Mobile phone + 2 charger cables (1x regular cable for regular power outlets with USB-C and 1x “old” USB cable for planes and safari vehicles)
• 1x power adapter (these are heavy and bulky, so you can also check with the camps you’re staying at if they provide adapters or if – like in Zambia – they had multiple different types of sockets for all sorts of chargers.)
• 1x multi-outlet power strip (I still bring one of those with at least 3 sockets, so I can charge more devices if there’s only one outlet available)
• 1x battery pack (this is to charge my phone or laptop when there’s no power available for whatever reason – we had fly-camps that relied 100% on solar and then 3 overcast days = no power. So it’s the ultimate backup, but only necessary, because I do need to work on these trips.)

Safari packing list: First-aid kit

This is a delicate one, as I’m no medical expert, so please don’t take this list and rely on it 100%, but consult your doctor before your trip. Also each location within Africa has different preconditions when it comes to tropical diseases, etc. – so these recommendations are to be taken with caution.

• Malaria medication (Malarone or similar. Please consult your doctor about the options when it comes to standby vs. prophylactic intake of malaria medication.)
• Clinical thermometer
• Antihistamine (I sometimes react to insect bites)
• Wound Disinfection
• Blister Pads (if you go on many walking safaris)
• Gauze bandages
• Disinfectant Spray

What I didn’t pack on my last trip was any regular flu medication and of course I caught a cold… my travel buddy Kady luckily had pastils against sore throat, nose spray and the likes. So you might want to add these to your list!

What you you don’t need to bring:

• Mosquito repellent (with a high DEET content)
• Insect repellants are usually provided by each camp. Often they even have two different types – one for your skin and one for your clothes. Or one for personal use and one to spray the room. Also the camps provide local products, that often work much better than what you can bring from your home country.

Safari packing list: Miscellaneous

Lastly here are few miscalleaneous items that are quite essential for any trip.

• Wallet with credit card, debit card, insurance card, etc.
• US Dollars (even when travelling from Europe I usually exchange US dollars ahead of the trip as those are accepted in every country. Make sure the bills are not torn or old or anything scribbled on them. Locals will only accept dollar notes in good condition as otherwise the banks will not exchange to their local currency. You can read more about my most important money tips for a safari here .)
• Vaccination card (you might have to provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination or a COVID vaccination – make sure to check the requirements for the destination you’re visiting).

What you you may or may not need to bring:

• Binoculars: I personally never bring binoculars, because I always look through the viewfinder of my camera with the long tele zoom lens instead. In many camps they also provide binoculars, either one pair per game drive vehicle or in more luxurious lodges there’s even a pair waiting for each guest in the room. If you’re not travelling with a camera I would recommend to bring binoculars as you’ll sometimes only see animals from the distance.
• Reusable water bottles: Even in more rustic fly camps these will be provided for the duration of the stay, but if you want to make sure to also have a water bottle ready for travel days, on airports, etc. you can bring your own.
• Headlamp: Personally I never bring a headlamp. Usually camps provide flashlights or lanterns for nightly toilet visits or trips to the main tent. In many camps you’re also not allowed to walk outside of your tent alone at night (because they’re unfenced and wildlife will pass through). So a team member will always be there with a flashlight. And then I can always use the headlamp of my phone. But some people prefer to have a headlamp handy just in case.

What you really don’t need to bring:

• Gators: I brought gators to Rwanda for the chimp trekking and used them once during a 2 week trip. So unless you plan on going jungle trekking regularly I think those are not really necessary.

If this blogpost was helpful, make sure to also check our guide for safari beginners !

Download your free safari packing list pdf here.

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Best luggage for families in 2024

By Leah Groth , Meredith Gordon , Kaylyn McKenna

Edited By Fox Van Allen

Updated on: June 24, 2024 / 11:40 AM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

If you've ever ventured on a meticulously planned vacation only to have the fun ruined by a broken suitcase, or luggage that didn't suit your needs, you know firsthand that the right luggage can make or break a family trip. Packing for yourself and your family requires precision and organization, making sure all your travel essentials find their place while saving room for the treasures you may purchase along the way. Nothing can simplify travel better than the perfect suitcase.

However you like to travel, you'll want to dive into our list of best luggage for families in 2024. From triple-tasking ride-on carry-on bags and kid-sized suitcases  to luggage sets and large trunks, you're going places this summer.

The best luggage for families in 2024

We've compiled luggage selections for all types of families and travel styles. Whether your kids prefer their own carry-ons or you need a large checked bag to hold all of the family's travel essentials, we've found the best luggage for your summer family vacation.

Best summer luggage sale: Save 30% on Samsonite this summer

• For the family that likes to stay organized on vacation : Royce & Rocket The Castle
• For the family with a toddler : JetKids by Stokke Bedbox ride-on carry-on suitcase
• For the family that tends to overpack : Travelpro Platinum Elite 
• For the parent that needs a roomy check-in : Away The Large Flex
• For the family that likes to travel in style : Monos Check-In Large
• For the family that loves to match : Coolife luggage set
• Best luggage for kids : Disney hardside spinner carry-on

Keep reading to learn more about our top picks and find the right luggage for your family. If you need more ideas, check out our full roundup of the best luggage in 2024 .

Samsonite is one of the top names in luggage. Known for lightweight, durable pieces designed to endure many summer family vacations, the brand is currently offering 30% off sitewide, with free shipping.

That means you can pack with confidence this summer with Samsonite's standout pieces, including the Freeform Medium Spinner (pictured here) now $168, reduced from $240; the 4.2-star rated Voltage two-piece se t now $240, reduced from $400; and the brand's terrific Carrier GSD travel backpack now $50, reduced from $90. 

Why we like Samsonite luggage :

• The luggage is lightweight, yet durable.
• Larger piece suitcases feature wheels that spin in any direction, making the bags easier to maneuver in transit.

For the family that likes to stay organized on vacation: Royce & Rocket The Castle

Anyone who struggles to stay organized while temporarily living out of a suitcase will appreciate the clever built-in shelving of this super-sized 31-inch piece of checked luggage from Royce & Rocket. 

Keep all of your family's items neatly organized by stacking everything on the two-tier shelves that fold down when the suitcase opens. Available in burgundy, silver and black exterior colors with the option of a pink or tobacco interior. 

Why we like the Royce & Rocket The Castle checked luggage:

• The included compression system and castle shelves help you fit everything your family needs and stay organized throughout your trip.
• It includes a mesh zip and lots of internal pockets for easy organization.
• It features a TSA-approved lock .

For the family with a toddler: JetKids by Stokke Bedbox ride-on carry-on suitcase

This 19-inch carry-on serves multiple purposes. It's a suitcase, ride-on transportation for little ones up to 77 pounds, a foot rest and it provides an in-air sleeping surface for kids age 2 and up. It's an excellent starter option for kids who want their own luggage but may get tired of walking or holding onto their suitcase in the airport. 

The case comes with an extendable lid elongating the seat, making it a great place to rest feet. During the flight, a built-in mattress helps this suitcase transform any airplane seat into a comfy makeshift bed. 

"I dragged my feet on this purchase because of the price tag, but I have zero regrets after traveling solo with my two-year-old and five-year-old,"  one parent who purchased the suitcase  says. "This thing was so easy to maneuver through the airport and through the plane aisles that my two-year-old pulled it herself for most of the trip. The bed feature was super easy to set up and we used it to and from our destination." 

Why we like the JetKids ride-on carry-on suitcase:

• It has a versatile design that allows kids to pull or ride on the suitcase. 
• It has a fun kid-friendly design. 
• It offers ample storage to fit all of your child's travel essentials. 

For the family that tends to overpack:  Travelpro Platinum Elite  

The roomiest of the popular Travelpro Platinum Elite collection, the 29-inch check-in size offers 143.5 liters of packing space for families. Constructed out of a stain-resistant fabric with stylish leather accents, the softside suitcase offers durability and protection for your family's items. Keep clothes organized with the internal tie-down system, integrated accessory products, a built-in, foldable suiter and a removable, TSA-compliant wet pocket for toiletries.

Need more room? The suitcase also boasts a tapered expansion, offering an extra 2 inches when needed. Prices vary by color. 

Why we like the Travelpro Platinum Elite spinner:

• It's expandable up to an extra two inches in case your family overpacks or ends up buying a few too many souvenirs on your trip
• It features eight self-aligning spinner wheels for a smooth glide.
• It comes with a TSA-approved lock to keep your family's belongings secure.

For the parent that needs a roomy check-in:  Away The Large Flex

Away Travel's hard-sided polycarbonate bags offer great protection for all your family's belongings. At 29 inches (plus 1.75 inches of expandable flex space) and 99 liters of interior space, The Large Flex serves as a great option. 

Features of this popular suitcase include 360-degree spinner wheels, a removable, washable liner and TSA-approved locks. If you don't like it, return it within 100 days for a full refund. 

Why we like the Away The Large Flex suitcase:

• It provides plenty of space for parents who are packing for themselves and their children.
• It's designed to hold enough for a two-week trip, or enough for a parent and child on a shorter trip if sharing luggage.
• It's durable, but still relatively lightweight.

For the family that likes to travel in style:  Monos Check-In Large

Available in a bunch of great colors and with features like an effortless telescopic handle, lots of pockets and compartments with zippers and an easy-to-use lock, this large check-in bag is worth considering. 

The 30-inch, 99-liter Monos Check-In costs $100 less than the similar style from Away, with many of the same features plus a 100-day trial period and lifetime warranty . You can also pack smaller suitcases like the Monos carry-on into the large check-in for storage when not in use

Why we like the Monos Check-in Large suitcase:

• It offers a spacious interior for your items.
• This luggage is made with a high-quality polycarbonate shell.
• It comes in thirteen color options and offers a sleek, stylish design.

For the family that loves to match: Coolife luggage set

Keep your family in coordinating style with a matching set of luggage. This top-selling polycarbonate hardshell luggage set from Coolife comes in sets of three (one carry-on and two check-ins) or four (two carry-on pieces and two check-ins) and costs less than a single suitcase from the competition.

Each suitcase comes equipped with quiet, multidirectional spinner wheels, an aluminum telescopic handle and interior mesh pockets for organizational purposes. Another cool feature? The suitcases fit inside one another for storage. Available in multiple colors. 

Why we like the Coolife luggage sets:

• Having matching luggage for the whole family makes it easier to keep track of your bags or find them at baggage claim.
• The bags are lightweight, making them easier for younger family members to roll.
• Each luggage piece features interior mesh pockets for organization.

Get a three- or four-piece set at Amazon by clicking the buttons below.

Best luggage for kids: Disney hardside spinner carry-on

Kids determined to carry their own luggage  will like the Disney-themed collection from Target. Available in a variety of sizes and themes, including Disney Princess, Mickey and Minnie Mouse and "Frozen," the bag rolls on side-mounted skate wheels and has dual handles for maneuverability.  

The carry-on has earned an impressive 4.5-star rating with 62% of Target buyers stating they'd recommend it. Target is home to a variety of Disney-themed luggage in various sizes and color options. We've linked to them all.

Why we like the Disney hardside carry-on:

• You can buy this suitcase in a variety of design options featuring popular characters. 
• Reviewers report that it's durable enough to stand up to drops, scraps and kicking from little ones. 
• It's made with a lightweight polycarbonate shell.

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