The main places to buy luggage
You can buy luggage at department stores, specialty luggage retailers, online marketplaces, warehouse clubs, and outlet stores. Each option has different prices, selection, and return policies. Department stores like Macy's and Kohl's stock mid-range brands in their luggage sections. Specialty retailers like Luggage Factory and TravelPro stores carry deeper selections and staff who know the products. Online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target offer the widest range and often the lowest prices, though you cannot inspect the bag before purchase. Warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam's Club rotate luggage inventory and offer member discounts. Outlet stores — both physical locations and online outlets — sell previous-season models and overstock at 20 to 40 percent below regular retail.
The choice depends on whether you want to see and feel the luggage before buying, how much you want to spend, and whether you have a membership. A traveler who wants to compare five brands side by side will visit a specialty store or department store. A traveler who knows the exact model they want will order online. A traveler who wants the lowest price will check outlet stores and warehouse clubs first.
Key Takeaways
- Department stores and specialty luggage retailers let you inspect bags in person, but online retailers and outlets usually have lower prices.
- Warehouse clubs like Costco rotate luggage stock seasonally and offer discounts to members, making them worth checking if you have access.
- Outlet stores and online outlet sections sell overstock and previous-season models at significant discounts, though selection changes frequently.
- Online marketplaces have the largest selection and often the fastest shipping, but you cannot touch the luggage before it arrives.
Department stores and general retailers
Macy's, Kohl's, Dillard's, and JCPenney all carry luggage in their home goods or travel sections. These stores stock brands like Samsonite, American Tourister, and Delsey at mid-range prices. You can see the bags in person, open zippers, and feel the weight. Return policies are usually 30 to 60 days, and many stores allow returns by mail if you bought online.
The downside is that department stores typically carry only the most popular models from each brand, not the full range. If you want a specific color or size, you may not find it. Prices are also higher than online or outlet options — you are paying for the convenience of shopping in person and the store's overhead.
Specialty luggage retailers
Luggage Factory, Luggage Forward, and brand-specific stores like TravelPro and Briggs & Riley carry deeper selections than department stores. These retailers often have staff trained on luggage features, warranty terms, and which bags work best for different travel styles. Many also offer repair services in-store or by mail.
Specialty stores are worth visiting if you are buying expensive luggage or if you have specific needs — a carry-on that fits airline dimensions exactly, a bag with a particular wheel type, or a warranty that covers damage. Prices are usually higher than online, but the informed and service can justify the cost. Some specialty retailers also price-match online competitors if you ask.
Online marketplaces and retailers
Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy all sell luggage online with shipping to your home. Prices are often 10 to 30 percent lower than in-store retail. You can read customer reviews, compare multiple brands on one page, and often get free or fast shipping. Return windows are typically 30 days, and many retailers offer free returns by mail.
The main limitation is that you cannot inspect the luggage before it arrives. You are relying on product photos, dimensions listed in the description, and customer reviews to judge quality and fit. If the bag does not meet your expectations, you have to pack it back up and ship it back — a hassle if you needed it quickly. Check the return policy before ordering, especially if you are buying close to a trip date.
Warehouse clubs
Costco and Sam's Club sell luggage seasonally, usually in spring and fall. Prices are discounted for members, and the selection includes both budget and mid-range brands. Costco's return policy is generous — you can return luggage within two years if you are not satisfied, no questions asked.
The catch is that inventory changes frequently and you cannot order online and pick up later at most locations. If you see a bag you like, buy it then, because it may not be there next week. Warehouse club luggage is often a good value if you have a membership and you are flexible about brand and model.
Outlet stores and discount retailers
Outlet malls and outlet sections of online retailers sell luggage at 20 to 40 percent below regular prices. TravelPro, Samsonite, and Delsey all run outlet stores in many cities. Online outlets like Luggage.com's clearance section, Amazon Warehouse Deals, and brand outlet websites offer similar discounts on overstock and previous-season colors.
Outlet luggage is usually the same quality as full-price luggage — it is just last year's color or a model the brand is discontinuing. Warranties are the same. The downside is that selection is unpredictable and sizes or colors may be limited. If you find a bag you like at an outlet price, buy it, because it may not come back in stock.
Comparing price and convenience
If you want to see the bag before buying and do not mind paying full price, go to a department store or specialty retailer. If you know exactly what you want and want the lowest price, check outlet stores and online outlets first. If you want the largest selection and do not mind waiting for shipping, order online from a major retailer. If you have a warehouse club membership and are flexible about brand, check their current inventory.
Many travelers use a combination: they visit a specialty store or department store to narrow down which brand and style they like, then order that model online or from an outlet to save money. This approach takes more time but often saves 20 to 30 percent on the final purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is luggage cheaper online or in a store?
Online and outlet stores are usually cheaper — often 15 to 40 percent below department store prices. The trade-off is that you cannot see the bag before it arrives and you have to arrange a return if it does not work out. In-store shopping costs more but lets you inspect the luggage and take it home when ready.
What is the difference between outlet luggage and regular luggage?
Outlet luggage is the same quality as regular luggage. It is usually overstock, a previous season's color, or a discontinued model. The warranty and construction are identical. The only real difference is price and availability — outlet selection changes frequently and you cannot special-order a color or size.
Can I return luggage if I buy it online?
Most online retailers allow returns within 30 days, and many offer free return shipping. Check the return policy before you order, especially if you are buying close to a trip. Some retailers like Costco have longer return windows — up to two years — which is useful if you want to test the luggage on a trip before deciding to keep it.
Do I need to buy luggage from a specialty store?
No. Specialty stores are useful if you want informed information, repair services, or you are buying expensive luggage and want to inspect it first. For budget and mid-range luggage, department stores and online retailers offer the same brands at lower prices. The choice depends on how much you value in-person service versus cost savings.
When is the best time to buy luggage?
Luggage goes on sale in spring (February to April) and fall (August to October) when retailers refresh inventory. Warehouse clubs also stock luggage seasonally at these times. If you need luggage outside these windows, outlet stores and online retailers usually have discounts year-round.