The main places to buy luggage are department stores, luggage specialty shops, big-box retailers, online marketplaces, and secondhand sellers

You can find luggage at dozens of retailers, each with different prices, selection, and return policies. Department stores like Macy's and Kohl's stock mid-range brands in their travel sections. Specialty luggage shops—whether local or chains like Luggage Pros or The Luggage Store—carry deeper inventory and staff who know the difference between hard-shell and soft-sided bags. Big-box retailers like Costco, Target, and Walmart offer budget options. Online, Amazon, Wayfair, and brand websites give you the widest selection and often the lowest prices, though you cannot inspect the bag before buying. Secondhand marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Goodwill let you save money if you are comfortable with used luggage.

The best choice depends on what you need: speed (in-store pickup same day), price (online often wins), selection (specialty shops or Amazon), or the ability to touch and test the bag before you commit (department stores and luggage shops).

Key Takeaways

  • Department stores and luggage specialty shops let you inspect bags in person and ask staff questions, but usually charge more than online retailers.
  • Online marketplaces like Amazon and brand websites offer the widest selection and lowest prices, but you cannot see or feel the luggage before it arrives.
  • Big-box retailers like Target and Walmart stock basic luggage at low prices, useful if you need something quickly and do not have specific brand preferences.
  • Secondhand luggage from Facebook Marketplace or eBay costs less but may have wear, missing parts, or broken wheels—inspect photos carefully and ask about damage.
  • Return policies vary widely: some retailers offer 30 days, others 60 or 90, so check before you buy if you think you might send it back.

Department stores and luggage specialty shops

Department stores like Macy's, Kohl's, Dillard's, and Nordstrom carry luggage in their travel or accessories sections. You will find mid-range brands like Samsonite, American Tourister, and Delsey, usually priced between $80 and $300 for a carry-on or checked bag. The advantage is you can open the bag, test the wheels and handle, and see the interior layout. Staff can answer basic questions, though they are not always luggage experts.

Luggage specialty shops—either independent local stores or chains like Luggage Pros, The Luggage Store, or Briggs & Riley boutiques—stock a deeper range of brands and sizes. They often carry premium brands like Away, Rimowa, and Calpak that department stores do not. Staff at specialty shops usually know luggage well and can explain the difference between polycarbonate and ABS plastic, or why expandable compartments matter. Prices are higher than online, but you get informed and the ability to see the full range in one place.

Both types of store offer return windows, usually 30 to 60 days, though policies vary. Check the return receipt or ask at the register before you leave.

Online retailers and brand websites

Amazon, Wayfair, Target.com, Walmart.com, and brand websites like Samsonite.com or Away.com offer the largest selection and often the lowest prices. You can compare dozens of bags side by side, read customer reviews, and filter by size, color, material, and price. Shipping is usually free or low-cost, and many retailers offer 30-day returns.

The trade-off is you cannot inspect the bag before it arrives. Read the product photos carefully—look at the interior pockets, the wheel design, and any damage shown in customer photos. Check the dimensions and weight in the product specs; a bag that looks compact online might be heavier than you expected. Customer reviews often mention real problems: wheels that break after a few trips, zippers that jam, or bags that are smaller than the photos suggest.

Brand websites sometimes offer sales or discounts not available elsewhere, and they may provide authenticity. Amazon and Wayfair have fast shipping (sometimes next-day), which matters if you need luggage before a trip. Return policies typically run 30 days, though some brands offer longer windows—check before you order.

Big-box retailers for budget luggage

Costco, Target, Walmart, and Sam's Club stock basic luggage at low prices, usually $40 to $150 per bag. These are not premium brands, but they work for occasional travelers or people who do not want to spend much. Costco rotates its luggage selection seasonally, so availability changes. Target and Walmart stock luggage year-round in-store and online.

The advantage is low cost and the ability to buy in person if you need luggage quickly. The disadvantage is limited selection—you might find three or four options instead of fifty. The bags are often lighter-duty, meaning wheels and zippers may not last as long as mid-range brands. Return policies are generous: Costco offers returns with no time limit, Target and Walmart offer 30 to 90 days depending on the item.

Secondhand luggage from online marketplaces

Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Craigslist, and Goodwill sell used luggage at steep discounts—often 50 to 70 percent off retail. If you find a well-maintained bag from a good brand, this is the cheapest option. Goodwill and thrift stores let you inspect the bag in person before you buy.

The risks are real: wheels may be worn or broken, zippers may stick or be missing teeth, handles may be cracked, and the interior may be stained or smell. Ask the seller for photos of the wheels, zippers, and any damage. On Facebook Marketplace and eBay, check the seller's rating and ask questions before you commit. Buying in person from Goodwill or a local seller lets you test the wheels and open the bag, which is safer than ordering online.

Secondhand luggage has no warranty and no return option in most cases. Only buy if you are comfortable with the risk and have inspected the bag thoroughly or seen clear photos of any damage.

Comparing prices and return policies across retailers

The same bag often costs different amounts at different stores. A Samsonite carry-on might be $120 at Walmart, $150 at Target, $160 at Macy's, and $110 on Amazon. Checking three or four retailers before you buy can save $20 to $40. Use Google Shopping or visit brand websites directly to compare.

Return policies matter if you buy online and the bag does not fit your needs. Most retailers offer 30 days; some offer 60 or 90. Costco and L.L.Bean offer longer windows. If you are unsure about size or style, buy from a retailer with a longer return period. Always check the policy before you complete the purchase—it is usually listed near the "Add to Cart" button or in the store's return section.

What to look for when comparing luggage options

Before you decide where to buy, think about what matters to you. If you want to see and touch the bag, go to a department store or specialty shop. If you want the lowest price and do not mind waiting for shipping, buy online. If you need luggage today, go to a big-box retailer or a local store. If you want informed information, visit a luggage specialty shop.

Also consider the brand and warranty. Premium brands like Away, Rimowa, and Briggs & Riley offer longer warranties and better customer service, but cost more. Budget brands like American Tourister and Delsey offer good value. Check whether the brand offers a warranty—some cover wheels and zippers for two to five years, which matters if you travel often.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is luggage cheaper online or in stores?

Online is usually cheaper, especially on Amazon and brand websites, which often have sales or lower markups than physical stores. Department stores and specialty shops charge more because of overhead. Big-box retailers like Walmart are competitive with online prices. Always compare the same bag across three retailers before you buy.

Can I return luggage if I change my mind?

Most retailers offer 30-day returns, though some offer 60 or 90 days. Costco has no time limit. Check the return policy before you buy—it is usually on the product page or the receipt. Secondhand luggage typically cannot be returned, so inspect carefully before you commit.

What should I watch for when buying used luggage?

Check the wheels, zippers, and handle for damage. Ask the seller for photos of any wear or broken parts. Test the bag in person if possible. Avoid bags with broken wheels or stuck zippers unless you are willing to repair them. Goodwill and thrift stores let you inspect before you buy, which is safer than online secondhand sales.

Is it worth buying luggage at a specialty shop instead of online?

Specialty shops cost more but offer informed staff, a wider range of premium brands, and the chance to inspect bags in person. If you are a frequent traveler or want a high-end bag, the informed and selection may be worth the extra cost. For occasional travelers or budget-conscious buyers, online is usually the better deal.

Do luggage brands sell directly on their own websites?

Yes. Samsonite, American Tourister, Away, Rimowa, Delsey, and most major brands sell directly. Brand websites sometimes offer exclusive colors or sales not available elsewhere, and you are may provide authenticity. Shipping and return policies vary by brand, so check before you order.