Major Retailers That Stock Luggage
You can buy luggage at department stores, warehouse clubs, specialty travel retailers, and online marketplaces. The main brick-and-mortar chains are Macy's, Kohl's, Target, and Walmart—all carry a range of suitcases, carry-ons, and travel bags at different price points. Costco and Sam's Club stock luggage seasonally, usually in spring and fall, and often at lower per-item prices if you buy a set. Dick's Sporting Goods and Academy Sports carry travel bags and duffels alongside their main inventory.
Specialty travel retailers like Luggage Forward, eBags, and TravelPro's own stores focus entirely on suitcases and travel gear, which means staff can answer detailed questions about wheel types, handle durability, and warranty coverage. These shops tend to stock more brands and styles than general retailers, though prices are often higher. Some operate only online; others have physical locations in major cities.
Online marketplaces—Amazon, eBay, and brand websites like Samsonite.com or Delsey.com—let you compare hundreds of models side by side and read customer reviews. Shipping is usually free on orders over a certain amount, and return policies vary by seller and brand.
Key Takeaways
- Department stores like Macy's and Kohl's carry luggage year-round at mid-range prices, while warehouse clubs like Costco offer discounts on sets during spring and fall.
- Specialty travel retailers stock more brands and styles than general stores and employ staff trained to answer questions about luggage construction and warranties.
- Online shopping on Amazon, eBay, and brand websites lets you compare models and read customer reviews before buying, though you cannot inspect the bag in person.
- Outlet stores and clearance sections in department stores often have previous-season luggage at 30 to 50 percent off regular prices.
Outlet Stores and Discount Options
Outlet malls house brand-specific luggage outlets—Samsonite Factory Store, American Tourister, and Delsey outlets appear in most major outlet centers. These sell overstock, discontinued colors, and previous-season models at lower prices than full-price retail. Prices are typically 30 to 50 percent below what you would pay at a department store, though selection changes frequently.
Department store clearance sections—both in-store and online—rotate luggage inventory seasonally. After peak travel seasons (summer and winter holidays), stores mark down remaining stock to make room for new arrivals. Checking these sections in January and September often yields the deepest discounts, though sizes and colors may be limited.
TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and Ross stock discounted luggage from major brands, usually at 20 to 40 percent below department store prices. Inventory is unpredictable and changes weekly, so you may not find the exact size or color you want, but prices are consistently lower than full-price retailers.
Specialty Travel Stores vs. General Retailers
Specialty travel retailers have trained staff who understand luggage construction—the difference between spinner wheels and two-wheel designs, hard-shell versus soft-sided materials, and which brands hold up best for frequent travelers. They can answer questions about warranty coverage, repair services, and whether a bag will fit airline carry-on dimensions. Many also offer services like luggage repair and replacement parts.
General retailers like Target and Walmart stock fewer brands and styles, and staff may not have detailed product knowledge. However, they offer convenience—you can pick up luggage while shopping for other items—and competitive prices on popular models. Their return policies are often more generous than specialty shops, which matters if you need to exchange a bag after purchase.
The trade-off is straightforward: specialty stores offer informed and selection; general retailers offer convenience and price. If you know exactly what you want, a general retailer works fine. If you are uncertain about size, material, or durability, a specialty store is worth the visit.
Online Shopping and Return Policies
Buying luggage online means you cannot feel the weight, test the wheels, or check how the handle feels in your hand. However, you gain access to detailed product photos, customer reviews that mention specific problems, and the ability to compare prices across dozens of retailers in minutes. Most online sellers offer free returns within 30 days, though some charge return shipping.
Brand websites often have the widest selection and sometimes offer sales or discounts not available elsewhere. Amazon Prime members get free two-day shipping on may be able to access luggage, which can matter if you need a bag quickly. eBay connects you to both new and used luggage from individual sellers and retailers, so prices vary widely.
Before ordering online, check the return policy—specifically whether the seller pays for return shipping and how long you have to return the item. Read customer reviews for mentions of wheel durability, handle strength, and whether the bag arrived damaged. Photos from verified buyers often show real-world use and reveal problems that product descriptions miss.
Luggage Brands Available at Different Stores
Budget brands like Rockland, Coolife, and IT Luggage appear at Walmart, Target, and Amazon. These typically cost $50 to $150 and work for occasional travelers, though wheels and zippers may wear faster than premium brands.
Mid-range brands like Samsonite, American Tourister, Delsey, and Travelpro are stocked at department stores, specialty retailers, and online marketplaces. Prices range from $150 to $400, and these brands offer better durability and warranties than budget options. Samsonite and American Tourister are easiest to find in general retailers; Travelpro is more common in travel-specific shops.
Premium brands like Rimowa, Calpak, and Away are sold primarily through specialty retailers, their own websites, and high-end department stores like Nordstrom. Prices start around $300 and go much higher. These brands emphasize design, lightweight materials, and lifetime warranties.
Checking Stock and Visiting in Person
If you want to inspect luggage before buying, call ahead. Large department stores and specialty retailers usually have luggage in stock, but selection varies by location and season. A quick phone call to the luggage department saves a wasted trip.
Warehouse clubs like Costco rotate inventory, so luggage may be available one month and gone the next. If you see a set you like, buy it then—it may not return for months. These clubs do not hold items, so you cannot reserve a bag for later pickup.
Outlet stores have the most unpredictable inventory because they sell what did not sell elsewhere. Visit in person if you are flexible about color and style; call ahead if you are looking for a specific model or size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return luggage if I buy it in a store?
Yes, but return windows vary. Department stores like Macy's and Kohl's typically allow returns within 30 to 60 days with a receipt. Specialty retailers often have shorter windows—sometimes 14 to 30 days. Outlet stores may not accept returns at all, so ask before you buy. Warehouse clubs like Costco have generous return policies but require a membership.
Is luggage cheaper online or in stores?
Online prices are often lower, especially on Amazon and brand websites, because sellers have lower overhead. However, outlet stores and discount retailers like TJ Maxx can match or beat online prices. Warehouse clubs offer the best per-item prices if you buy a set, but you must be a member. Compare prices across three to four retailers before deciding.
What is the difference between luggage at Costco and luggage at Target?
Costco stocks fewer brands but negotiates lower prices, so a Samsonite set costs less at Costco than at Target. However, Costco's selection changes seasonally and you cannot order online for pickup. Target has consistent inventory year-round and easier return policies. Costco is better if you know what you want and are buying a set; Target is better if you want to browse options.
Do I need to buy luggage from a specialty store?
No. If you know your size and material preference, a general retailer works fine and costs less. Specialty stores matter if you want informed information on durability, warranty coverage, or repair services, or if you need an unusual size or style that general retailers do not stock.
Can I buy luggage used?
Yes, through eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and local secondhand shops. Used luggage costs 40 to 60 percent less than new, but you lose any manufacturer warranty and cannot inspect the bag's interior condition before buying. Buy used only if you can see the item in person or from detailed photos that show the wheels, zippers, and handle condition.