My first real luggage was a pair of soft side suitcases I got right after high school. Unfortunately, they didn’t last very long. Within a year, two wheels on both of them had cracked, jammed, and then ground down to dust.
Now I’m a bit pickier in my choice of suitcase. I’ve learned that it’s worth investing a bit more to get gear that will last.
I’m still a huge fan of soft sided luggage, though. It’s lightweight, flexible, and usually has more pockets and organization than hard shell suitcases. In my mind, the best soft side suitcases should capitalize on these strengths by being easy to pack, having accessible outside pockets, and having a tough, durable construction that can take some abuse.
I’ve searched hard to find the suitcases that fit those requirements. Here are my top 10 soft sided luggage picks. I’ll dive into the details on each, give you the pros and cons, and help you find the best one for your next trip.