The main places to buy suitcases

You can buy suitcases at department stores, luggage specialty shops, big-box retailers, and online marketplaces. Each type of store has different inventory, price ranges, and return policies, so knowing where to look saves time and often money.

Department stores like Macy's, Kohl's, and Nordstrom carry luggage sections with mid-range brands and frequent sales. Luggage specialty stores like Luggage Pros or local independent shops offer informed staff who can answer questions about durability and features, though prices are often higher. Big-box retailers like Walmart, Target, and Costco stock basic suitcases at lower prices, with limited selection. Online retailers like Amazon, eBay, and brand websites give you the widest choice and often the lowest prices, but you cannot inspect the suitcase before buying.

Key Takeaways

  • Department stores and big-box retailers offer suitcases at moderate prices with the ability to see and touch the product before buying.
  • Luggage specialty stores employ staff trained to match you with the right bag for your travel style, though you will pay more.
  • Online retailers have the largest selection and lowest prices, but shipping costs and return policies vary widely by seller.
  • Brand websites (Samsonite, American Tourister, Away) often have sales and clearance sections not available in stores.
  • Warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam's Club rotate luggage inventory seasonally, so availability changes throughout the year.

Department stores and general retailers

Macy's, Kohl's, Nordstrom, Dillard's, and JCPenney all maintain luggage departments with brands like Samsonite, American Tourister, Delsey, and store-brand options. These stores run frequent sales and clearance events, especially after holiday travel seasons. You can handle the suitcase, test the wheels and zippers, and compare sizes side by side.

Target and Walmart stock basic suitcases from brands like Threshold (Target's house brand) and Mainstay, priced for budget travelers. Selection is smaller than department stores, but prices are lower. Both offer online ordering with in-store pickup or home delivery, which lets you compare prices before committing.

Luggage specialty stores

Independent luggage shops and chains like Luggage Pros, The Luggage Store, or regional shops employ staff who specialize in travel gear. They can explain the difference between hard-shell and soft-sided construction, advise on wheel types, and help you choose based on how often you travel and what you pack. These stores typically carry premium brands like Rimowa, Briggs & Riley, and Tumi alongside mid-range options.

Specialty stores usually cost more than department stores or big-box retailers, but their return policies are often more flexible, and they may offer repair services. Many will adjust wheels, replace zippers, or fix handles after purchase. If you plan to travel frequently or want a suitcase that will last years, the informed and service justify the higher price.

Warehouse clubs

Costco and Sam's Club sell suitcases seasonally, usually stocking them before spring break and summer vacation. Inventory changes month to month, so what is available in March may be gone by May. Prices are competitive, and both clubs offer generous return policies—you can return a suitcase even after using it if you are not satisfied.

You need a membership to shop at these stores, but if you already have one, checking their luggage section before buying elsewhere can save money. Costco's website shows current inventory, so you can see what is in stock before visiting the warehouse.

Online retailers and brand websites

Amazon, eBay, Wayfair, and Overstock carry hundreds of suitcase models from dozens of brands. Prices are often lower than in-store, and you can read customer reviews and compare specifications easily. Shipping is usually free or low-cost on orders over a certain amount, though delivery takes five to ten business days.

Brand websites like Samsonite.com, Away.com, American-Tourister.com, and Delsey.com sell directly to consumers and often run sales not advertised in stores. Buying from the brand website guarantees authenticity and usually includes the full manufacturer warranty. Return policies vary—some brands offer free returns, while others charge a restocking fee or require you to pay return shipping.

The main drawback of online shopping is that you cannot inspect the suitcase before it arrives. Read the dimensions carefully, check the weight, and review photos from multiple angles. Look at customer reviews that mention durability and whether wheels held up after repeated trips.

Discount and outlet stores

TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Ross, and Burlington carry discounted suitcases from major brands, often at 20 to 40 percent below regular retail. Inventory is unpredictable—what you find depends on what the store received that week—but prices are hard to beat. Return policies are usually more restrictive than department stores, so check tags and zippers before buying.

Brand outlet stores (Samsonite outlets, for example) sell overstock and previous-season models at lower prices. These are legitimate products with full warranties, not damaged goods. Outlet locations are less common than regular stores, but many have online shopping with shipping to your home.

Seasonal timing and sales

Suitcase prices drop after major travel seasons. January and February see clearance sales on holiday luggage, and August through September clear summer inventory. Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer discounts across all retailers, though selection may be limited by then.

Back-to-school season (July and August) sometimes includes luggage sales, and Presidents' Day weekend (February) is another common sale period. If you are not in a hurry, waiting for a sale can save 15 to 30 percent compared to buying at regular price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return a suitcase if I have already used it?

Return policies vary. Department stores and big-box retailers usually allow returns within 30 to 60 days with a receipt, even if used. Warehouse clubs like Costco allow returns for years. Online retailers and brand websites have different policies—some allow returns within 30 days, others charge a restocking fee. Always check the return policy before buying, especially online.

Is it cheaper to buy online or in a store?

Online is usually cheaper, especially on brand websites and Amazon, because there is no store overhead. However, add shipping costs to your total—free shipping often applies only to orders over a certain amount. Department store sales can match or beat online prices, so compare before deciding.

What should I look for when comparing suitcases in a store?

Test the handle by extending and retracting it, spin the wheels to make sure they roll smoothly, and open and close the zippers several times. Check the weight—lighter is better if you travel frequently. Look at the interior pockets and dividers. Hard-shell suitcases protect contents better but are heavier; soft-sided ones pack more efficiently.

Are store-brand suitcases as good as name brands?

Store brands like Target's Threshold or Walmart's Mainstay are adequate for occasional travelers but may not last as long as Samsonite or American Tourister. If you travel once or twice a year, a store brand is fine. If you travel frequently or need a bag that will last five years or more, a recognized brand is worth the extra cost.

Where can I find the best prices on expensive luggage brands?

Brand outlet stores, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and the brand's own website during sales offer the lowest prices on premium brands like Rimowa or Briggs & Riley. Sign up for email newsletters from brands you like—they announce sales to subscribers before the general public.