Best Luggage for European Travel in 2024

Traveling to Europe is an exciting adventure, but packing can be a daunting task. Choosing the right luggage can make your trip much more comfortable and stress-free. When it comes to the best luggage for European travel, you should keep a few things in mind.

When choosing the best luggage for European travel, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences.

Whether you’re a backpacker or a luxury traveler, there’s a luggage option out there for you. In this article, we’ll be exploring the top luggage options for European travel, so you can find the perfect fit for your next adventure.

Why should you choose spinner luggage?

Planning a trip to Europe and searching for the perfect luggage? Look no further!

Let’s dive into the pros and cons if you’re considering spinner luggage and let’s weigh the options and find the best luggage to travel to Europe.

Pros and Cons of Spinner Luggage for European Travel:

Pros:

1. Maneuverability: Effortlessly navigate crowded European streets with 360-degree spinner wheels.
2. Smooth Transportation: Glide smoothly through airports and train stations, making transfers a breeze.
3. Versatility: Push, pull, or glide your spinner luggage, adapting to any situation.
4. Easy Organization: Multiple compartments and pockets keep your belongings organized during your European trip.

Cons:

1. Stability: Spinner luggage may be less stable on uneven surfaces, potentially tipping over.
2. Limited Capacity: Compared to other types, spinner suitcases may have slightly less interior space.
3. Wheel Damage: Exposed wheels can be susceptible to damage, requiring proper handling and maintenance.
4. Weight Distribution: Careful packing is needed to prevent top-heaviness and maintain stability.

Choose the perfect spinner luggage for your European adventure while considering the advantages and disadvantages.

Best Luggage for European Travel: Carry-on Sizes

If you’re planning a trip to Europe, choosing the right luggage can make all the difference. From navigating cobblestone streets to hopping on and off trains, you need a bag that’s both durable and easy to maneuver.

We’ve rounded up the best luggage options for your European adventure.

Whether you prefer a backpack, a carry-on, or a larger suitcase, we’ve got you covered. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey!

Softside vs. Hardside Luggage: Choosing the Best Luggage for Travel to Europe

When planning your European adventure, selecting the right luggage is essential. Let’s compare the pros and cons of softside and hardside luggage to find the best fit for your European travel needs.

Softside Luggage:

Pros:

1. Flexibility: Softside luggage offers flexibility and expandability, accommodating extra items during your travels to Europe.
2. Lightweight: Opt for softside bags to keep your luggage weight in check, making it easier to navigate European streets and transportation.
3. Easy Storage: Softside luggage is more adaptable to tight spaces, fitting into overhead compartments and compact European accommodations.
4. Exterior Pockets: Many softside bags come with convenient exterior pockets, providing easy access to essential items during your European adventures.

Cons:

1. Limited Protection: Softside luggage may offer less protection for fragile items during your travels in Europe.
2. Wear and Tear: The fabric exterior of softside bags is prone to scuffs and tears, requiring extra care and maintenance.
3. Water Resistance: Softside luggage may have limited water resistance, so be cautious of potential water damage during your European travels.

Hardside Luggage:

Pros:

1. Durability: Hardside luggage is known for its durability, withstanding the rigors of European travel and protecting your belongings.
2. Enhanced Protection: Opt for hardside bags to ensure better protection for fragile items during your journey to Europe.
3. Water Resistance: Hardside luggage typically offers superior water resistance, safeguarding your belongings from unexpected spills or rain showers.
4. Easy to Clean: The hard shell of hardside bags makes them easier to clean, maintaining their pristine appearance throughout your European travels.

Cons:

1. Weight: Hardside luggage tends to be heavier, potentially posing challenges with weight restrictions during your travels to Europe.
2. Limited Flexibility: The rigid structure of hardside bags may limit flexibility in tight spaces or when overpacking.
3. Less Expandability: Unlike softside luggage, hardside bags often lack expandable features, which may restrict packing capacity.

Consider your travel priorities when choosing between softside and hardside luggage for your European adventures. For flexible and lightweight options, softside luggage suits best. However, if durability, protection, and water resistance are your primary concerns, hardside luggage is the way to go for seamless travels to Europe.

NOTE: Some budget airlines have smaller carry-on sizing allocations. We’re marked those below.

Best Luggage for European Travel: Budget Airline Friendly

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SwissGear 7366 Hardside Expandable Luggage

If you’re looking for a durable and stylish luggage to travel to Europe, the SwissGear 7366 Hardside Expandable Luggage is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The durable ABS/PC construction with co-molded lift handle(s) with soft rubber hand grips ensures that your luggage will last for years to come.
• The split-case design expands for additional packing space and a variety of internal pockets keep you organized.
• The four 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels with a premium, push-button steel locking telescopic handle provide maximum maneuverability.

Cons

• The wheels tend to get stuck or create issues in smooth movement when the floor surface is not even.
• The inner straps to hold your clothes can be a bit flimsy.
• The expandable feature may encourage overpacking and stress on the zipper.

The SwissGear 7366 Hardside Expandable Luggage is perfect for your upcoming adventure to Europe. Its lustrous metal zippers and rugged ABS construction exemplify its long-lasting quality.

The virtually-indestructible split case opens to display tie-down clothing straps, a roomy zippered compartment, and a small zippered pocket to keep your travel-sized essentials separate from your clothes.

The 18” Expandable Hardside Luggage also includes a telescopic handle, four 360-degree wheels, expandable packing space, and a molded grab handle. You can spin it around to take advantage of the additional mobility its foldable cup holder provides.

The extra security its built-in TSA-approved three-dial combination lock provides makes this suitcase a must-have for your upcoming voyage.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a stylish, durable, and well-organized luggage with maximum maneuverability, the SwissGear 7366 Hardside Expandable Luggage is a great choice.

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Coolife Luggage Aluminium Frame Suitcase TSA Lock 100% PC 20in

If you’re looking for a durable and stylish luggage to travel to Europe, the Coolife Luggage Aluminium Frame Suitcase is worth considering.

Pros

• The aluminum frame and 100% Germany Bayer PC material make it sturdy and long-lasting, with a shining appearance.
• The protective bumper corners and bidirectional deep frame TSA locking system enhance the case’s durability and security.
• The wheel design and multi-stage push button locking handle make it easy to maneuver and adjust to any size traveler.

Cons

• The suitcase may be heavier than other options, weighing 12 pounds.
• The silver color may not be as expected, appearing more like an off-gray light blue purple.

The Coolife Luggage Aluminium Frame Suitcase has a well-equipped interior with large packing space, mesh pockets, and carrying bags to help organize essentials better and keep your contents in place and tidy during transit. It also comes with a worldwide exclusive 2-year warranty.

Please note that this luggage is sold separately, but if you intend to buy two or three suitcases, the small suitcase can be stored inside the bigger one.

Additionally, only the frame is aluminum, and the main body of the luggage is made of 100% German Bayer PC material.

Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and secure luggage with a stylish appearance, the Coolife Luggage Aluminium Frame Suitcase is a great option.

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Kenneth Cole Out of Bounds Lightweight Durable Hardshell 4-Wheel Spinner Cabin Size Travel Suitcase

If you’re looking for a durable and stylish carry-on suitcase, the Kenneth Cole Out of Bounds Lightweight Durable Hardshell 4-Wheel Spinner Cabin Size Travel Suitcase is a great choice.

Pros

• The four-wheel spinners allow for smooth, effortless 360-degree maneuvering.
• The hard ABS exterior is lightweight and durable, with reinforced protective molded corner guards that absorb shock for maximum impact resistance and durability.
• The interior main compartment is fully lined with a tear-resistant lining and features double-sided packing, a zippered organization pocket, and garment restraint straps to hold your clothes in place.

Cons

• The suitcase is slightly larger than some airline carry-on size requirements, so you may need to check with your airline before traveling.
• The suitcase does not come with a TSA lock or padlock, so you will need to purchase one separately for extra security.

This carry-on suitcase is packed with features, including a spacious fully lined interior, molded corner guard reinforcements for maximum impact resistance, garment restraints to keep your contents in place, and molded side feet that allow the suitcase to stand upright on its side.

The locking, retractable trolley handle extends to be 41 inches tall and has a convenient push button mechanism. The main compartment zipper pullers feature a small loop that can fit a TSA lock or padlock for extra security.

The Kenneth Cole Out of Bounds Lightweight Durable Hardshell 4-Wheel Spinner Cabin Size Travel Suitcase is designed to meet most U.S based & international airline carry-on size requirements and designed to fit into most overhead bins.

It is backed by a manufacturer 10-year limited guarantee against craftsmanship and manufacturer defects.

In summary, if you’re looking for a stylish and durable carry-on suitcase that is easy to maneuver, the Kenneth Cole Out of Bounds Lightweight Durable Hardshell 4-Wheel Spinner Cabin Size Travel Suitcase is a great choice.

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DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage

If you’re looking for a durable and lightweight carry-on luggage for your Europe trip, then the DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage is a great option.

Pros

• The double spinner wheels make it easy to maneuver and keep zero weight on your arm.
• The large front compartment with an integrated padded sleeve for up to a 15.6-inch laptop and 2 zippered mesh pockets provides easy access to your electronics and last-minute items.
• The suitcase expands up to 2 inches for additional packing space, making it perfect for packing souvenirs on return journeys.

Cons

• The integrated TSA-approved lock can be a bit tricky to use at times.
• The body of the suitcase scratches easily.
• The price is a bit high compared to other carry-on luggage options.

The DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage is made of 100% polycarbonate, which makes it lightweight and durable. The modern design with deep metallic glossy finishes looks great and is perfect for the frequent traveler.

The suitcase has a large easy access front compartment with an integrated padded sleeve for up to a 15.6-inch laptop and 2 zippered mesh pockets for computer accessories, toiletries, or any last-minute items such as tickets, passport, or books.

The double spinner wheels assure exceptional maneuverability and keep zero weight on your arm, making it easy to navigate through crowded airports and train stations.

The suitcase has a comfortable handle system that locks into two positions for ease of use, and the soft-touch top and side carry handles allow you to lift it into overhead bins or car trunks comfortably.

The DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage has two large, fully-lined compartments with multiple pockets for easy access and organization of all your items. The web straps and a zippered divider secure clothing and help minimize wrinkles.

The suitcase also features an integrated recessed TSA approved lock, which allows only TSA agents to inspect your bag without damaging your bag or lock.

Overall, the DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage is a great option for those looking for a durable and lightweight carry-on luggage for their Europe trip. Although it has a few cons, the pros outweigh them, and the suitcase is definitely worth considering.

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Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

If you’re looking for a lightweight and durable carry-on spinner for your trip to Europe, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage is a great choice.

Pros

• The expandable zipper allows you to maximize packing space up to two additional inches.
• The four spinner wheels provide an effortless 360-degree roll, making it easy to navigate through crowded airports and train stations.
• The polyester fabric with DuraGuard coating resists water and stains to keep your luggage looking great.

Cons

• The luggage tends to tip over if it’s not packed properly.
• The zippers can be a bit difficult to open and close.
• The interior lining is not as durable as some other luggage brands.

This compact carry-on spinner is perfect for short to medium-length trips or for packing your onboard essentials. It features two exterior compartments, a full-length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket, and adjustable interior hold-down straps to keep you organized.

The patented Contour Grip is designed with rubberized touch points for a comfortable handhold and easier maneuvering. The lightweight yet sturdy PowerScope Lite handle locks in two positions (38″ and 42.5″) to accommodate users of different heights.

The low-profile top, side, and bottom carry handles make it easy to lift and carry your luggage.

Overall, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage is a great investment for anyone who wants a lightweight and durable carry-on spinner for their trip to Europe.

With its expandable zipper, four spinner wheels, and durable fabric, this luggage is sure to make your travels more comfortable and convenient.

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Rockland Expandable Spinner Carry On

If you’re looking for affordable carry-on luggage that can help you avoid excess weight surcharges imposed by most airlines, then the Rockland Expandable Spinner Carry-On might be a good choice.

Pros

• The multi-directional spinner wheels make it easy to maneuver through airports and crowded streets.
• The interior mesh and zip pockets provide ample storage options for your belongings.
• The aluminum telescoping handle is sturdy and easy to use.

Cons

• The luggage is front-heavy and tends to tip over.
• The wheels are not very durable and may wear out quickly.
• The zippers are not very sturdy and may break easily.

This luggage is perfect for short trips or weekend getaways. It’s lightweight, compact, and easy to carry. The multi-directional spinner wheels make it easy to navigate through airports and crowded streets. The interior mesh and zip pockets provide ample storage options for your belongings. The aluminum telescoping handle is sturdy and easy to use.

However, the luggage is front-heavy and tends to tip over, especially when it’s packed with heavy items. The wheels are not very durable and may wear out quickly, especially if you travel frequently.

The zippers are not very sturdy and may break easily, so you need to be careful when opening and closing the luggage.

Overall, the Rockland Expandable Spinner Carry On is a good choice if you’re looking for an affordable carry-on luggage that can help you avoid excess weight surcharges imposed by most airlines.

However, you need to be aware of its limitations and take good care of it if you want it to last.

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LEVEL8 Grace EXT Carry On Luggage

If you’re looking for a reliable luggage for your European travel, the LEVEL8 Grace EXT Carry On Luggage is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The expandable feature allows for extra packing capacity, perfect for short business trips.
• The front laptop compartment provides a safe and easily accessible space for your electronics.
• The lightweight yet durable shell is made of quality PC+ABS materials with an anti-scratch technology and outstanding durability.

Cons

• The size may not be suitable for longer trips or those who tend to overpack.
• The price point is on the higher end compared to other carry-on luggage options.
• The color options are limited.

This luggage is thoughtfully designed for the modern traveler. The expandable feature is a game-changer, allowing for extra packing capacity without the need to check in a larger bag.

The front laptop compartment is a convenient addition, providing a separate space for electronics while keeping them easily accessible. The lightweight yet durable shell is made of quality PC+ABS materials with an anti-scratch technology, ensuring that the luggage will last for many trips to come.

The 8 rubber-covered 360-degree spinner wheels and ergonomic aluminum telescoping handle make maneuvering through busy airports a breeze. The TSA combination lock provides excellent security throughout all your travels.

The spacious interior features cross straps and dividers for super easy packing, with multiple pockets to keep belongings neatly organized.

Overall, the LEVEL8 Grace EXT Carry-On Luggage is an excellent investment for frequent travelers who want reliable and durable carry-on luggage. Its expandable feature, front laptop compartment, and lightweight yet durable shell make it a great choice for short business trips.

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Hanke Carry On Luggage

If you’re looking for a stylish and durable carry-on luggage for your European travel, Hanke Carry On Luggage is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The front-opening design makes it easy to pack and saves space.
• The TSA press-button lock is safe and convenient.
• The premium polycarbonate PC material is more durable than ABS+PC.

Cons

• The wheels seem flimsy.
• The luggage is smaller than expected.
• The price is a bit high.

Hanke Carry On Luggage is a perfect suitcase for a holiday, trip, or business travel. The front-opening design is a game-changer, making it effortless to pack and saving space. The TSA press-button lock is also a great feature, making the luggage safe and convenient.

The premium polycarbonate PC material is more durable than ABS+PC, and the diamond-shaped texture on the surface prevents scratches, keeping the luggage beautiful after a long trip.

The wheels seem a bit flimsy, but they work great and roll easily on every surface. The luggage is smaller than expected, but it’s the point of this suitcase. It measures at the absolute biggest limit for many airplanes’ overhead cabins, making it a perfect carry-on luggage.

The price is a bit high, but it’s worth the investment if you’re looking for high-quality and durable luggage.

In summary, if you’re looking for a stylish, durable, and space-saving carry-on luggage for your European travel, Hanke Carry On Luggage is an excellent choice.

Best Luggage for European Travel: Carry-on

Note: The following luggage options are slighty bigger than what most budget airlines allow. Please keep that in mind.

SwissGear Sion Softside Carry-On Spinner Luggage

If you’re looking for a durable and spacious carry-on luggage for your European travel, SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Carry-On Spinner Luggage is a great option to consider. It is made of scuff-resistant polyester fabric and comes with four 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels for easy portability.

Pros

• The expandable feature gives you ample packing space.
• The locking push/pull handle system and four spinner wheels make it easy to maneuver through crowded airports and narrow airplane aisles.
• The luggage has multiple pockets and compartments to keep your belongings organized.

Cons

• The luggage might be a bit heavy for some travelers as it weighs 8 pounds.
• The luggage might not fit in some airlines’ overhead compartments so if you plan to move around Europe on budget airlines, then this is not for you.

SwissGear Sion Softside Carry-On Spinner Luggage is a great choice for travelers who need a spacious and durable luggage for their European travel. The expandable feature gives you extra packing space when you need it, and the locking push/pull handle system and four spinner wheels make it easy to move around.

The luggage has multiple pockets and compartments to keep your belongings organized, and the scuff-resistant polyester fabric ensures that it can withstand the wear and tear of travel.

Overall, the SwissGear Sion Softside Carry-On Spinner Luggage is a great investment for travelers who want reliable and spacious luggage for their European travel.

DELSEY Paris Chatelet Hard+ Hardside Luggage

If you’re looking for a stylish and durable luggage for your European travels, the DELSEY Paris Chatelet Hard+ Hardside Luggage is a great option.

Pros

• Lightweight and durable 100% polycarbonate shell with stylish faux leather accents
• Four spinner wheels for easy multi-directional rolling
• Recessed 3-dial TSA approved combination lock for security and unique brake system to prevent rolling away

Cons

• Does not expand
• No outer zipper pocket

This luggage is made from virgin polycarbonate that is extremely resilient to cracking or breaking, making it perfect for frequent travelers. The faux leather accents give it a timeless and elegant look that is perfect for European travels.

The four spinner wheels make it easy to maneuver through crowded airports, and the recessed 3-dial TSA approved combination lock ensures your belongings are safe and secure. The unique brake system also prevents the bag from rolling away.

One downside of this luggage is that it does not expand, which may be a deal breaker for some travelers. Additionally, there is no outer zipper pocket, which may make it difficult to access items quickly.

Lastly, the carry-on size is smaller than 22 inches, which may cause problems if you need to pack a lot of items.

Overall, if you’re looking for a stylish and durable luggage for your European travels, the DELSEY Paris Chatelet Hard+ Hardside Luggage is a great option.

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Briggs & Riley ZDX-Expandable Luggage

If you’re looking for a high-quality carry-on for European travel, the Briggs & Riley ZDX-Expandable Luggage is a great choice.

Pros

• The carry-on expands up to 34%, providing an additional 2.5 inches of expansion depth.
• Made with ballistic nylon outer fabric that resists wear, moisture, dirt, and abrasion.
• Comes with an unconditional lifetime guarantee.

Cons

• The price is higher than some other carry-on options.
• The carry-on is heavier than some other options.
• Some users may prefer a hardshell carry-on for added protection.

This carry-on is designed for real-world travel needs and features an outside battery pocket for charging your phone, a Smartlink strap for connecting two bags, and an easy-access pocket for security checkpoints.

The ballistic nylon outer fabric is durable and resists wear, moisture, dirt, and abrasion. The carry-on also comes with an unconditional lifetime guarantee, so you can trust that it will last for years to come.

The carry-on is expandable up to 34%, providing an additional 2.5 inches of expansion depth. This makes it easy to pack everything you need for your European travels without having to check a bag.

The carry-on also features an Outsider handle that provides greater interior capacity and a flat interior surface for packing so clothing arrives wrinkle-free.

While the price of this carry-on is higher than some other options, the quality and durability make it a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality carry-on for European travel, the Briggs & Riley ZDX-Expandable Luggage is a great choice.

With its durable construction, ample features, and unconditional lifetime guarantee, you can trust that this carry-on will last for years to come.

Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase set

We highly recommend the Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase set for anyone traveling to Europe.

Pros

• The design is sleek and modern, and the patented two-wheel design makes it smooth, quiet, and durable.
• The ABS+PC material is durable and lightweight, and the textured finish prevents scratches. The beveled edge design increases toughness for the luggage.
• The worldwide 2-year warranty and TSA lock add peace of mind. The lock allows only TSA agents to inspect your bags without damaging the lock.

Cons

• The telescoping handle is sturdier than most on the market, but it may still wobble a bit when fully extended.
• The 28-inch suitcase may be too large to fit in some European hotels with smaller elevators and narrow hallways.
• The white color may show dirt and stains more easily than darker colors.

We recently used the Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase set on a European trip and were impressed with its performance. The two-wheel design made it easy to navigate through crowded airports and narrow streets.

The ABS+PC material held up well against the wear and tear of travel, and the textured finish prevented scratches. The TSA lock gave us peace of mind when we checked our bags, and the worldwide 2-year warranty added an extra layer of protection.

In summary, the Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase set is a great option for anyone traveling to Europe. Its sleek design, durable material, and added security features make it a reliable choice for any trip.

LUGGEX Blue Carry On Luggage 22x14x9

If you’re looking for sturdy, stylish, and spacious luggage for your European travels, LUGGEX Blue Carry-On Luggage 22x14x9 is an excellent option.

Pros

• The 100% aluminum corner protectors provide extra protection against damage, ensuring your belongings remain safe even in violent transportation.
• The 3-layered 100% Polycarbonate material makes the luggage lightweight, resilient to cracking and breaking, and stable under 40 – 50℃, making it ideal for long trips.
• The luggage expands up to 2 inches, providing additional packing space for souvenirs and other items, making it a great choice for return journeys.

Cons

• The lock might not work as expected.
• The luggage might not arrive in the expected color.
• The luggage might not be as spacious as expected.

This luggage is perfect for those who want a durable, lightweight, and expandable luggage for their European travels. The 100% aluminum corner protectors and 3-layered 100% Polycarbonate material make it a reliable option for long trips.

The luggage’s expandable feature provides additional packing space, making it easier to bring souvenirs and other items back home.

In terms of cons, the lock might not work as expected, and the luggage might not arrive in the expected color. Additionally, the luggage might not be as spacious as expected, so it’s important to check the luggage’s dimensions before purchasing.

Overall, LUGGEX Blue Carry-On Luggage 22x14x9 is a great option for those who want reliable, lightweight, and expandable luggage for their European travels.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best luggage for European travel, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when choosing the right luggage for your needs:

Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of your luggage will depend on the length of your trip and the type of travel you will be doing. If you plan on traveling for an extended period of time, you will need a larger suitcase or backpack.

However, keep in mind that many European airlines have strict size and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage, so be sure to check the requirements before you buy.

Durability

European travel can be tough on luggage, with cobblestone streets and crowded trains putting a strain on even the most well-made bags. Look for luggage made from durable materials like polycarbonate or ballistic nylon that can withstand the wear and tear of travel.

Weight

The weight of your luggage is also an important consideration, especially if you plan on doing a lot of walking or taking public transportation. Look for lightweight luggage options, such as those made from lightweight materials or with lightweight frames, to make your travels easier.

Features

There are a variety of features that can make your European travel experience more comfortable and convenient. Look for luggage with features like:

• Wheels and handles for easy transport
• Locks or security features to keep your belongings safe
• Multiple compartments and pockets for organization
• Expandable options for extra storage space

By considering these factors and choosing the right luggage for your needs, you can ensure a comfortable and stress-free European travel experience.