Best Stylish Luggage for European Travel in 2024

by Igor Monte updated 10-29-2024

best luggage for european travel

A trip to Europe is a fantastic adventure.

So why not travel in style?

In this post, we'll go over our top picks for luggage for a European trip, so you can make a great impression while you're there.

Top Picks

Want a quick breakdown? Here are our top picks:

  1. Best Rolling Carry-on Bag: Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag (click to view) - a stylish rolling carry-on bag made from the highest quality full grain leather, handmade in Italy.
  2. Best Leather Weekend Bag: Weekender (click to view) - a leather weekender that's both professional and practical, with a dedicated laptop compartment and detachable shoulder strap. Made from high quality full grain leather.
  3. Best Professional Garment Bag: Grand Leather Garment Bag (click to view) - a stylish and professional travel bag with a built in garment bag for your suit. Full grain leather, detachable shoulder strap.

Best Luggage for European Travel in 2024

Voyager Leather Carry-on Bag with Wheels

Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag

Best for effortless business travel with a touch of luxury - Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag with Wheels.

Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag Product Highlights:

Color OptionsAvailable in Elegant Black, Solid Brown, Classic Tan, and more
Laptop SleeveIncludes a sleeve for up to a 16" laptop
MaterialHandmade from premium vegetable-tanned Italian leather
Convenience FeaturesSmooth-rolling wheels, foldaway telescopic handle with two height settings, and easily accessible pockets
InteriorDurable cotton lining with small slots and an interior zipped pocket
Zipper QualityHigh-quality Japanese YKK zippers
SustainabilityCrafted sustainably with a focus on supporting local communities
Origin CertificateComes with a certificate of leather origin guaranteeing quality and origin
Travel-FriendlyCarry-on compliant with ample space for travel essentials
Additional FeaturesLuggage tag included for easy identification

Watch the Voyager product video below:

Browse more images of the Voyager:

Our review:

"Extremely popular with male and female travellers alike, this big-selling unisex travel bag is designed to serve you well for years to come. The bag offers a wide range of brilliant features for travellers including the telescopic handle and wheels. It is also carry-on compliant and comes with a luggage tag. There's a special compartment for a laptop up to 16", tough cotton lining and a reliable YKK zipper. The bag makes it easy for you to quickly access travel essentials like your passport and boarding pass and comes with a fold-over magnet closure. Small slots and an interior zipped pocket makes organising smaller items a breeze."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and refined appearance Not completely waterproof
Built-in wheels and retractable handle for effortless mobility Not ideal for extremely rough terrain
Ample storage space for essentials Not the lightest option for a carry-on bag
Durable and long-lasting construction
Develops a unique patina over time
Multiple compartments for organized packing
Perfect for business or personal travel

Weekender Leather Weekend Bag

Weekender

Best for a stylish weekend getaway with friends, the Weekender leather bag is spacious and durable, perfect for packing all your essentials.

Weekender Product Highlights:

MaterialCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather
DesignSpacious design perfect for gym and travel with a dedicated sleeve for up to a 16" laptop
InteriorDurable cotton lining with compartments for organization
ZipperJapanese YKK zipper for reliable access
ComplianceMeets airline size standards for carry-on luggage
CraftsmanshipHandcrafted in Florence, Italy by experienced craftsmen
Additional FeaturesAdjustable and removable leather shoulder strap, studs on the base for protection, solid brass hardware
PersonalizedOption for custom laser engraving
Use CasesTravel, gym, sports, weekend getaways
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly practices

Watch the Weekender product video below:

Browse more images of the Weekender:

Our review:

"Look no further if you require a unisex bag for travel � this carry-on compliant bag can give you everything you need. The bag is made from premium full-grain leather and comes complete with a sleeve for a laptop up to 16". The bag is perfect for overseas travel as well as your next staycation and boasts robust cotton lining and a YKK zipper. The bag has been designed to be as practical as it is elegant. It also comes with smooth top leather handles and an adjustable shoulder strap which will make transportation a breeze. Carry clothing, chargers, toiletries and more."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and sophisticated design Not completely waterproof
Ample storage space for essentials Not ideal for extremely heavy items
Comfortable to carry and handle
Durable and long-lasting construction
Develops a unique patina over time
Easy to clean and maintain
Multiple compartments for organized packing
Suitable for weekend trips and overnight stays

Grand Leather Garment Bag

Grand Leather Garment Bag

Best for business travelers who want to arrive in style with wrinkle-free clothing, the Grand Leather Garment Bag is a must-have.

MaterialCertified Italian Vegetable-Tanned Full-Grain Leather
Garment Duffel BagCarry your suit in style and without creases
Interior LiningDurable Italian Cotton Lining
Zipper QualityJapanese YKK Zipper
Carry-On CompliantMeets airline size standards for carry-on luggage
OriginMade in Florence, Italy
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly
CapacityCan fit 2-3 suits, shirts, shoes, accessories, and a laptop
Suit CarrierAttached to the travel bag
PersonalizedIt can be personalized with a custom laser engraving

Watch the Grand product video below:

Browse more images of the Grand:

Our review:

"This beautiful unisex bag for travel has been designed with longevity in mind. The bag comes complete with a tough YKK zipper and boasts outstanding cotton lining. This popular bag is as spacious as it is functional, giving you enough space to carry outfits, laptops and more. What's more is that the bag is compliant with carry-on rules. Get your most treasured goods from the airport to the hotel in style with our highly elegant and dependable unisex travel bag. The bag has been manufactured by leading Italian craftsmen and is as sophisticated as it is reliable. Take a closer look today."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and elegant design Not completely waterproof
Ample storage space for clothes and accessories
Comfortable to carry and handle
Durable and long-lasting construction
Develops a unique patina over time
Features hanger hooks for easy storage of garments
Zippered compartments to keep clothes secure during transport

10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag

10X Laptop Travel Bag

Best for business travel with a touch of luxury. The 10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag is perfect for carrying your essentials in style.

10X Laptop Travel Bag Product Highlights:

Product10X Laptop Travel Bag
MaterialFull Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned
Laptop Sizeup to 15.6 inch
LiningDurable Cotton Canvas
ZippersYKK Zippers - Italian-Made
Handmade?Handmade in Florence, Italy
StrapsBackpack Straps and Adjustable Shoulder Strap
Carry-on Compliant?Yes
Width31 cm (12 in)
Height42 cm (17 in)
Depth17 cm (7 in)
Weight2 kg (0.9 lbs)
Personalization?Custom Laser Engraving

Watch the 10X product video below:

Browse more images of the 10X:

Our review:

"This unisex bag for travel has been designed to appeal to men and women alike. The bag offers a number of exceptional features that will make your travels a breeze, and these include tough cotton lining and a dependable YKK zipper. The bag has been manufactured from elegant premium Italian full-grain leather. It has a front-loading design that makes it so easy to access your holiday essentials when you require them. You'll also get access to a sleeve to protect your 15.6 inch laptop or 16 inch MacBook Pro. You can use this high-selling offering as a travel bag, a backpack or a messenger bag. Organisation is made simple thanks to the canvas-lined internal compartments."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Spacious and versatile Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Suitable for both professional and casual use
Fits most laptops up to 16 inches
Designed for easy travel and convenience
Multiple compartments for organized storage

City Leather Laptop Bag

City Laptop Bag

Best for business trips and city travel with a sleek leather design and spacious compartments for laptops and documents.

City Laptop Bag Product Highlights:

MaterialCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather
Color OptionsSolid Brown, Elegant Black, Deep Red
Laptop CompatibilityFits up to 15.6-inch laptop
Inner LiningDurable Italian cotton lining
Zipper QualityJapanese YKK zipper for reliable access
OriginMade in Florence, Italy
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly
DesignProfessional and spacious design for work or travel essentials
Adjustable StrapAdjustable and detachable shoulder strap
Inner PocketsStitched 100% cotton canvas lining
Compartments & Pockets1 large zipped main compartment divided by a zipped padded pocket
PersonalizedOption to personalize with initials or a special message.

Watch the City product video below:

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Our review:

"This incredibly elegant unisex bag for travel has been designed to appeal to men and women alike. The bag is manufactured from outstandingly elegant and dependable materials including Italian full-grain leather. It can accommodate a laptop of up to 15.6 inches and has been designed with longevity in mind. Invest in this bag and receive several years of support as you explore everything that the world has to offer. The bag also comes with tough cotton lining and boasts rounded top handles which make it easy to transport it from country to country. Take a closer look at this exquisite unisex travel bag today."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and sophisticated design Not completely waterproof
Ample storage space and compartments Not ideal for extremely heavy items
Comfortable to carry and handle
Durable and long-lasting construction
Develops a unique patina over time
Easy to clean and maintain

Isabella Shoulder Bag

Isabella Shoulder Bag

Best for city explorers who want a chic and practical bag to carry essentials, with a versatile strap for cross-body or shoulder wear.

Isabella Shoulder Bag Product Highlights:

MaterialPremium Italian full-grain leather
ClosureMagnetic snap closure
OriginCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather from Tuscany
CraftsmanshipMade in Florence, Italy by skilled artisans
Inner LiningFine Italian cotton lining
Zipper QualityJapanese YKK zippers
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly
Inner PocketOne zipped pocket inside
Shoulder StrapAdjustable and detachable
VersatilityCan be carried as a crossbody bag or clutch purse
PersonalizedOption to personalize with initials or a special message
Unique and Thoughtful GiftSuitable for any occasion, showcasing thoughtfulness

Watch the Isabella product video below:

Browse more images of the Isabella:

Our review:

"This popular unisex travel bag appeals to men and women alike. The bag is made from exquisite premium grade Italian full-grain leather and can be used as a crossbody or shoulder bag. This popular bag is noted for various fantastic features, and these include the magnetic snap closure, the suede leather interior and the adjustable leather strap. You can use the bag to transport a host of holiday essentials such as your phone, sun cream, books and sunglasses. The bag is made in Florence by highly skilled Italian craftsmen. Expect the bag to last for years to come before you need to replace it."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Multiple compartments for organized storage Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Designed for women
Stylish design
Can be worn as a shoulder bag or a crossbody bag
Comfortable to wear

Superior Leather Wash Bag

superior leather wash bag

Best for organized toiletry storage on business trips or weekend getaways - Superior Leather Wash Bag.

Superior Leather Wash Bag Product Highlights:

Color OptionsAvailable in Solid Brown, Classic Tan, Elegant Black, and Deep Red
MaterialPremium Italian full-grain leather, certified vegetable tanned
OriginCrafted using Tuscan vegetable-tanned leather with a certificate of leather origin
ManufacturingMade in Florence, Italy by skilled artisans
Interior LiningDurable and water-repellent polyester fabric
Zipper QualityFeatures renowned Japanese YKK zippers
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly practices
DurabilityLong-wearing, made from vegetable-tanned full-grain Italian leather
CapacitySpacious enough for most travel toiletries with two main zipped compartments
CustomizableOption to personalize with initials or a special message

Watch the Superior product video below:

Browse more images of the Superior:

Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Compact size Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Multiple compartments for organized storage
Stylish design
Convenient for travel and storage

Elegance Leather Tote Bag

Elegance Tote Bag

Best for business trips with a touch of sophistication. The Elegance Leather Tote Bag is perfect for carrying your laptop and documents in style.

Elegance Tote Bag Product Highlights:

Material OriginCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather from Tuscany
Laptop SleeveSpecifically designed slot for up to a 14" laptop
Interior QualityRobust Italian cotton canvas lining, pleasant to touch
Zipper DurabilityRenowned Japanese YKK zippers ensuring longevity
CraftsmanshipHandcrafted in family-owned studios in Florence, Italy
Sustainability CommitmentSupports traditional craftsmanship and eco-friendly practices
Leather TreatmentLeather treated with sustainable methods, ensuring quality and origin
Wear ResistanceDesigned for frequent use without excessive wear and tear
Handle StrengthHandles crafted to carry laptops, documents, and books securely

Watch the Elegance product video below:

Browse more images of the Elegance:

Our review:

"Have you been searching online for a reliable, long-lasting unisex bag for travel? If so, this could be the perfect solution. The bag has been designed to support you through trip after trip and gives you a great deal of capacity for all your travel essentials. This high-selling bag is made from elegant Italian full-grain leather and can be carried by hand or over the shoulder thanks to the robust leather straps. Key features of the bag include the zipped pocket for smaller items, three pen slots, a YKK zipper and cotton lining. The bag offers a great deal of longevity and should last for many holidays or business trips before it needs to be replaced."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Spacious and versatile Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Suitable for both professional and casual use
Multiple compartments for organized storage
Stylish design

Essential Modern Briefcase

Essential Briefcase

Best for business trips with a modern edge. The Essential Modern Briefcase is sleek and functional, perfect for carrying your work essentials in style.

ProductEssential Briefcase
MaterialFull Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned
Laptop Sizeup to 15.6 inch
LiningDurable Cotton Canvas
ZippersYKK Zippers - Italian-Made
Handmade?Handmade in Florence, Italy
StrapsDetachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap
Carry-on Compliant?Yes
Width40 cm (16 in)
Height31 cm (12 in)
Depth10 cm (4 in)
Weight1.3 kg (0.6 lbs)
PersonalizedCustom Laser Engraving

Watch the Essential product video below:

Browse more images of the Essential:

Our review:

"Don't settle for less when you need a unisex travel bag that appeals to men and women alike. This popular bag gives you enough space for a 15.6 inch laptop and is made from premium Italian leather. Invest in this bag and you'll gain access to a large back pocket, a reliable YKK zipper and a detachable shoulder strap. The bag is often used to transport clothing, make-up, books, toiletries and more. This big-selling briefcase is handcrafted in Florence, Italy by some of the country's most skilled craftsmen. It comes with an exquisite hardware finish and is ideal for the airport, the hotel and everywhere in-between."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Modern and stylish design Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Spacious and versatile
Suitable for both professional and casual use
Multiple compartments for organized storage

Prime Leather Backpack

Prime Backpack

Best for chic city explorations with hands-free convenience - Prime Leather Backpack.

MaterialCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather
Quality AssuranceComes with a certificate of leather origin
ManufacturingMade in Florence, Italy
Interior LiningFine Italian cotton lining
Zipper QualityJapanese YKK zippers
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly
Laptop SleeveDedicated sleeve for up to a 14" laptop
Carry-on CompliantMeets airline size standards for carry-on luggage
PersonalizedPersonalize this backpack with a laser engraving, perfect as a gift
Color OptionsSolid brown, classic tan, deep red, elegant black

Watch the Prime product video below:

Browse more images of the Prime:

Our review:

"This unisex travel bag is the ideal match for men and women when they are exploring everything that the world has to offer. The bag is designed to withstand everything that modern travel can throw at it and is made from tough, reliable materials including elegant Italian full-grain leather. Other features which have made this bag very popular amongst discerning ladies and gentlemen include the YKK zipper and the durable canvas interior. The bag also comes with adjustable shoulder straps and a wide top handle which make carrying it through the airport or the city a breeze. There are three separate compartments inside the main compartment."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and versatile design Not waterproof
Multiple compartments for organization Not ideal for carrying extremely heavy items
Comfortable to wear
Durable and long-lasting
Develops a unique patina over time
Can be easily cleaned and maintained

Liberty Leather Backpack

Liberty Backpack

Best for chic city breaks with hands-free convenience - Liberty leather backpack is perfect for exploring new destinations in style.

ProductLiberty Backpack
MaterialFull Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned
Laptop Sizeup to 14 inch
LiningDurable Cotton Canvas
ZippersYKK Zippers - Italian-Made
Handmade?Handmade in Florence, Italy
StrapsAdjustable Straps
Carry-on Compliant?Yes
Width33 cm (13 in)
Height40 cm (16 in)
Depth12 cm (5 in)
Weight1.4 kg (0.6 lbs)
PersonalizedCustom Laser Engraving

Watch the Liberty product video below:

Browse more images of the Liberty:

Our review:

"If you require a unisex bag for travel that has a timeless look and can serve you well for years, this bag made from premium Italian full-grain leather could be the ideal match. This big-selling bag comes with a large number of desirable features such as the YKK zipper and durable cotton lining. It also has a sleeve that's big enough to accommodate a tablet or a laptop up to 14 inches. The bag has been designed to withstand the challenges of overseas travel and has been created to carry more than just your bare essentials. It also comes with adjustable shoulder straps and a strong top handle to make carrying a breeze, wherever you're heading to."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and versatile design Not waterproof
Multiple compartments for organization May not be ideal for carrying extremely heavy items
Comfortable to wear
Durable and long-lasting
Develops a unique patina over time
Can be easily cleaned and maintained

Key Features for European Travel Luggage

The finest luggage for traveling through Europe for me might not be the greatest luggage for you because we all have different tastes. Consider the following things to make sure you get the ideal baggage for your trip to Europe.

Size

Are you looking for check-in baggage or a carry-on bag? And if you want a carry-on bag, will that be your only item? It would be best if you asked yourself these questions first.

Whatever your response, I firmly believe your luggage should only be as large as you want it to be. Do always prefer the smaller size. Don’t buy a giant bag, “just in case,” as carrying it around will make you regret it.

You must first confirm with your airline their baggage policies if you intend to buy carry-on luggage for your trip to Europe. While there are certain parallels in general, there are still some subtle variances, and you don’t want to be charged for excess luggage because of a few centimeters or kilograms too many.

You should probably choose one of the largest permitted carry-on bags if it’s your only piece of baggage. However, if you only need a carry-on bag to go with your checked luggage, I recommend a small bag or suitcase that’s just large enough to fit your essentials.

Backpack vs Suitcase vs Carry-On Bag

Which type of luggage is more suitable for a European trip: a backpack or a suitcase? There are benefits and drawbacks to using either.

Since you can roll a suitcase, it’s often simpler to transport, though not always. Traveling to Europe, you’ll probably need to carry your bag up flights of stairs, through cobbled streets and crowded areas now and then. A backpack is far more practical in these situations.

When you are only allowed to bring carry-on luggage, a suitcase is not ideal because they weigh more than a backpack. You shouldn’t waste valuable weight on your bag if you only travel with cabin luggage. In this instance, a knapsack is the better choice.

It’s much easier to find clothes and personal stuff in a suitcase, though. Unlike backpacks, which need you to unlock numerous straps and compartments to access items, bags typically require a simple zipper only.

Therefore, consider the aspects mentioned above to determine whether a suitcase or backpack is ideal for your trip to Europe

Related:

Weight

It’s crucial to get the lightest luggage that satisfies your needs because airlines are rigorous about the weight of both checked and carry-on luggage. Some bags and luggage may be excessively hefty, taking up valuable space in your checked baggage. Others, however, are so light they provide little security for your possessions.

It would help if you considered a few factors when determining the weight of your bag. You must accept that your hard-side case will be slightly heavier than a soft-side case or backpack. And needless to say, a giant suitcase will weigh a little more than a smaller one.

When taking into account the weight of your luggage, quality also matters. Huge, inexpensive luggage probably won’t offer your possessions much protection. While high-quality, roomy, lightweight luggage or a backpack would typically cost more.

Compartments

A few tiny pockets are often inside the main compartment of a suitcase, and occasionally there is also a pocket on the exterior. I’d also suggest getting an expanded model if you buy a case. An expandable bag is excellent since it allows you to stow all your travel items. You may easily add more room by unzipping the inflatable compartment rather than purchasing a separate bag.

There are many different pockets and compartments available on backpacks. Suitable if you frequently travel with your laptop, you can get some with built-in laptop sleeves. Others have phone compartments on the straps, water bottle pockets on the side, and more.

A few compartments help keep your belongings organized, but I don’t think you need to purchase a bag with too many since you’ll forget where you put your stuff.

Wheels

Wheels are worth looking at if you want a high-quality suitcase for your European trip.

After all, you’ll want your luggage to be simple to move around when navigating a crowded airport. Baggage that doesn’t go where you want it to can be a pain and stress you out before you’re even onboard the plane.

These days, suitcases might have two or four wheels. A two-wheel bag requires you to tilt it in order to wheel it, and it’s challenging to maneuver through tight places and around bends. When left alone, two-wheeled bags frequently tip over and pulling more than one is virtually impossible.

Four-wheel bags are now the norm and are much simpler to maneuver through packed airports. These bags can move swiftly in any direction and easily navigate corners. Moving the bag across the airport requires a slight push on the handle and doesn’t need you holding any of the weight. They’re also much easier to steer on a cramped airplane aisle than bags with two wheels.

On the other hand, pulling a bag behind you on two wheels is typically easier than on four. You’ll probably want to pull your case out of the airport rather than push it. Cobbled streets and other uneven surfaces are usually considerably more manageable for a two-wheel bag to handle than for different cases.

Soft or Hard

If you choose to buy a suitcase, you should think about whether a hard or soft cased one is preferable.

Hard-shell backpacks are less prevalent and much more challenging to fit into overhead compartments. While a hard-shell case will frequently give your stuff superior protection, it will probably weigh more than a soft-shell cover.

If you want a hard-shell case, get a light one, so you don’t use up too many of your valuable kilograms on your case rather than your belongings.

Straps

Make sure your backpack is comfy to carry if you decide to buy one. Look for bags with sturdy straps that evenly distribute the weight across your back, with most of the load resting on your hips thanks to the hip belt. The best backpacks have straps for the sternum, hips, and shoulders that are cushioned, ventilated, and adjustable.

Handles

Your luggage must have an easy-to-use handle, whether you choose a suitcase or a backpack.

Some suitcase handles can be challenging when loading your bag rapidly into a bus or moving through a crowded airport since they don’t retract quickly enough. The best telescoping handles may extend to a height that gives you a comfortable arm’s length while also compressing to a height in the middle.

Whether you’re carrying a backpack or a suitcase, make sure it has top and side handles to make it easy to stow in the overhead bins.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed our best luggage for European travel post.

If you ever need any help with anything to do with travel, bags or fashion, feel free to contact the Von Baer team, at info@vonbaer.com.

Browse our other travel pages here.

Author: Igor Monte

Igor Monte is the co-founder of Von Baer. He's an expert in all things premium leather, from being an end-user right up to the design and manufacturing process. His inside knowledge will help you choose the best leather product for you.

We always aim to have the highest editorial standards, and only publish accurate information on our website.

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