Best luggage sets

Start with the July Carry On & Checked Set. It's the set I'd buy for most people: aerospace-grade polycarbonate shells, near-silent double spinner wheels and multi-stop handles, and the strongest owner ratings of anything here by a wide margin. It's the one to keep for a decade of trips.

Who the others suit:

• Calpak Evry Starter Bundle — best if you want to be packed on day one; it includes packing cubes and a luggage tag.
• LEVEL8 Luminous Textured 2-Piece — a lighter carry-on and a clean, textured shell that hides scuffs.
• Travelhouse 4-Piece Hardshell — the budget route for a family needing several sizes at once.
• July Carry On & Checked Trunk Set — for long trips where a deep trunk beats a flat case.
• Pagosa 2-Piece — a simple, well-rated carry-on plus medium checked pair.

Skip anything soft-sided if you check bags; hard shells survive baggage handling better.