We drag a metal wire over the luggage and then evaluate any damage that's left behind. ✔️ Scratch resistance: Hardside luggage is tested for scratch resistance. We rate the luggage based on how well it resists wear and look for pilling, holes and scuffs. ✔️ Abrasion resistance: Softside luggage goes through abrasion testing, where we cut a swatch of material from the luggage and then place it in our abrasion tester, which rubs the fabric 15,000 times with an abrasive metal to simulate prolonged use. This process allows us to analyze imperfections like scuffing or dents that occur as a result. ✔️ Drop durability: Luggage is placed in our drop tester, which releases the luggage from a 3-foot height, dropping it onto a surface below. After packing the bags, analysts and testers roll the bags over different surfaces such as wood, tile and carpet and also lift the bags up onto counter to test carrying handles. We also consider other elements like telescopic handles, locks and wheels. ✔️ Packing capabilities: Our analysts pack each suitcase with a standard load of items including clothing, shoes and toiletries to evaluate how much we can fit inside and how well features like zippers and other fasteners work (shown here). For this article, we chose pieces from top-performing brands, kids' luggage that our experts have tried and love, the kid-sized versions of our favorite standard luggage pieces and luggage that's popular online with rave reviews. Along with testing in the Lab, we work with consumer testers who provide us with real-user feedback about the luggage after using it on their own trips. We also set up an obstacle course in the Lab for testers to use the luggage and then rate their thoughts on each piece. In our Textiles Lab, we measure, pack and test luggage using specialized equipment like our Wyzenbeek abrasion tester and drop tester. Even better, luggage covered in a fun print or their favorite colors can get them more excited to carry their own bags.Īt the Good Housekeeping Institute, we test all kinds of luggage from well-known brands, evaluating them for performance and durability. It's important to pick a suitcase that's the right size for your kids and that will be able to withstand wear and tear. Not only will you be able to save some space in your suitcase, you'll allow your kids the opportunity to feel independent as they pack their bags with all of their favorite things and roll their own bags through the airport on the way to your next adventure. Traveling with kids can be overwhelming, but there are some things you can do to decrease the stress, including investing in luggage for your kids.

Suitcase safe