Quick answer
For family travel, look for checked luggage that balances capacity, weight, and durability. Prioritize sets with expandable compartments, smooth wheels, and easy-to-clean exteriors. Away's checked luggage and accessories offer practical features like 360-degree wheels and organized interiors that simplify packing for multiple travelers.
Start with size and capacity needs
Family trips often require packing for several people, so the checked bag's capacity is critical. A 25–30 liter backpack or a large tote can supplement a carry-on for short trips, but for longer vacations, a checked suitcase with 80–100 liters of space is more practical. Consider that airlines enforce weight limits, so a lighter empty bag gives you more room for souvenirs.
Check wheel and handle quality
Smooth-rolling 360-degree wheels make navigating airports and streets much easier, especially when you're managing kids and bags. Look for wheels that are replaceable — like the Custom Wheel Kit from Away — so you can refresh worn wheels instead of replacing the whole suitcase. A sturdy telescoping handle with multiple height settings also helps when pulling a loaded bag.
Prioritize organization features
Family luggage benefits from compartments that keep everyone's items separate and accessible. Features like a laptop sleeve, passport pocket, and multiple zippered pockets reduce digging through a single large space. A tote with a hidden pocket for earbuds or a carry-on with a dedicated tech section can streamline packing and unpacking for the whole family.
Decision rules for family checked luggage
- Capacity vs. weight: Choose a bag that holds enough for your family but stays under airline weight limits when empty. A lighter bag gives you more packing flexibility. Check the empty weight of any bag before buying.
- Wheel durability: Smooth 360-degree wheels are essential for easy maneuvering. Replaceable wheels, like those in Away's kit, add longevity. Look for bags with replaceable wheels or buy a wheel kit separately.
- Organization matters: Multiple compartments, laptop sleeves, and hidden pockets reduce chaos. A bag with dedicated sections helps each family member find their items quickly. Prioritize bags with at least one external pocket and internal dividers.
Product facts
- Custom Checked Wheel Set in: The Custom Wheel Kit keeps you rolling towards what's next. Go ahead, change your direction. This kit lets you switch things up with a new set of smooth 360 wheels. Each kit includes replacement wheels, matching screws, and an Allen wrench for at-home installation. If you travel frequently with family, wheels wear out faster. This kit extends the life of your luggage without needing a new suitcase, saving money and reducing waste.
- Active Convertible Backpack 25L in: Made from a lightweight, high-strength polyester, this 25L Convertible Backpack holds a day trip's worth of essentials. Dual interior and exterior compression systems help you pack more in and multiple pockets systems securely stash valuables. For family day trips or as a personal item on the plane, this backpack's compression system lets you fit more gear while keeping valuables organized and accessible.
Who this is for
Best for
- Families taking week-long vacations who need a large checked bag
- Travelers who want durable luggage with replaceable parts
Not ideal for
- Minimalist travelers who prefer carry-on only
- Budget-focused families who need the lowest upfront cost
