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. The best choice depends on whether you want to see and touch the bag before buying, how much you are willing to spend, and whether you need it quickly.
Department stores like Macy's, Kohl's, and Nordstrom carry luggage from multiple brands in one place, making comparison easier. Specialty retailers like Luggage Pros or local luggage shops offer informed staff who can answer questions about durability and features. Online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target ship quickly and often have lower prices. Warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam's Club stock a smaller selection but often at discounted prices for members. Outlet stores, both physical locations and online outlets, sell previous-season or overstock luggage at 20 to 50 percent off regular prices.
Key Takeaways
- Department stores and specialty retailers let you inspect luggage in person and ask staff questions before you buy.
- Online retailers offer the widest selection and fastest shipping, but you cannot test the weight or feel of the bag until it arrives.
- Warehouse clubs require a membership but often have lower prices on popular brands.
- Outlet stores and clearance sections sell older inventory at steep discounts, though selection changes frequently.
- Return policies vary widely — some stores offer 30 days, others 60 or 90, so check before you buy.
Department stores and big-box retailers
Macy's, Kohl's, Nordstrom, Target, and Walmart all stock luggage in their stores and online. These retailers carry multiple brands — typically including Samsonite, American Tourister, Delsey, and house brands — so you can compare styles and prices in one trip. Staff availability varies; Macy's and Nordstrom tend to have more trained luggage staff than Target or Walmart.
Prices at department stores are usually full retail, but these stores run frequent sales and promotions. Kohl's and Macy's especially offer discounts through their loyalty programs and email sales. If you shop in person, you can test the weight of a bag, roll it, and check how the wheels and handle feel. Most department stores offer 30 to 60 day returns, though Nordstrom is known for a longer return window.
Specialty luggage retailers
Stores dedicated to luggage — such as Luggage Pros, The Luggage Store, or independent local shops — employ staff trained specifically in luggage construction, warranty coverage, and repair. These retailers often stock brands you will not find in department stores, including higher-end options like Rimowa and Briggs & Riley. They can explain the difference between polycarbonate and aluminum frames, advise on wheel durability, and discuss warranty terms in detail.
Specialty retailers typically charge full retail price, but many offer repair services in-house or through partnerships, which can extend the life of your luggage. Some will adjust wheels, replace handles, or repair zippers without sending the bag away. If you plan to buy expensive luggage or want informed guidance, a specialty retailer is worth the trip or phone call. Many also have online stores with the same inventory as their physical locations.
Online marketplaces and brand websites
Amazon, Walmart.com, Target.com, and brand websites like Samsonite.com and Delsey.com offer the largest selection and often the lowest prices. Online shopping works well if you already know the brand and model you want, or if you are comfortable reading reviews and specifications without handling the bag first. Shipping is usually fast — many items arrive within two to three days with Prime or standard shipping.
Prices online are often 10 to 30 percent lower than in-store prices, especially during sales events. However, you cannot test the weight, feel the material, or check the wheel movement before it arrives. Return policies vary: Amazon offers 30 days for most items, Walmart offers 90 days, and brand websites often match their retail partners. Read the return policy before you buy, especially if you are ordering from an unfamiliar seller.
Warehouse clubs and membership retailers
Costco and Sam's Club sell luggage to members only, but prices are typically 15 to 25 percent below department store prices. Selection is limited — Costco might stock three to five luggage options at any given time — but the brands they carry are usually reliable: Samsonite, American Tourister, and Delsey appear regularly. Inventory changes seasonally, so if you see a bag you like, buying it soon is wise.
Both Costco and Sam's Club offer generous return policies: Costco allows returns indefinitely on most items, and Sam's Club offers 90 days. If you already have a membership, checking the luggage section during your next visit costs nothing. If you do not have a membership, the annual fee (Costco is $60 or $120 depending on tier; Sam's Club is $50 or $110) may not be worth it for a single luggage purchase, unless you shop there regularly.
Outlet stores and clearance sections
Physical outlet malls and online outlet sites like Samsonite.com/outlet or Delsey's clearance section sell previous-season luggage, overstock, and discontinued colors at 20 to 50 percent off. Outlet stores are worth visiting if one is near you, because you can inspect the bag and return it when ready if there are defects. Online outlets have the same discount but require shipping both ways if you need to return.
Outlet luggage is usually the same quality as full-price luggage — the discount reflects age or color, not construction. However, outlet items often have limited or no warranty, and return windows are shorter (typically 14 to 30 days instead of 60 or 90). Check the warranty terms before you buy. If you find a brand and style you like at an outlet price, the savings can be substantial, but selection is unpredictable and changes weekly.
Comparing price and convenience
The cheapest option is usually an outlet store or online outlet section, followed by warehouse clubs and online marketplaces during sales. Department stores and specialty retailers charge full price but offer the advantage of seeing the bag in person and accessing trained staff. If you need luggage within a few days, online retailers with fast shipping are fastest; if you want to inspect it first, a physical store is necessary.
Consider also the cost of returns. If you buy online and need to return it, you may pay return shipping unless the retailer covers it. Department stores and specialty retailers let you return in person, which saves time and shipping cost. Warehouse clubs and some online retailers offer free returns, which reduces the risk of buying without seeing the bag first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is luggage cheaper online or in stores?
Online is usually cheaper, especially during sales or at outlet sites. Warehouse clubs are also discounted for members. Department stores charge full price but run frequent promotions. The difference is typically 10 to 30 percent, so comparing prices across a few retailers before you buy saves money.
Can I return luggage if I change my mind?
Yes, but the window varies. Department stores offer 30 to 90 days; Costco allows returns indefinitely; Sam's Club offers 90 days; outlet stores often allow only 14 to 30 days. Check the return policy before you buy, especially if you are ordering online and may need to ship it back.
Should I buy luggage in person or online?
In person if you want to test the weight, roll it, and check the wheels and handle. Online if you already know the brand and model, or if you want a lower price and fast shipping. Many people buy online after inspecting the same model in a store first.
Do outlet luggage bags have the same warranty as full-price bags?
Usually not. Outlet luggage often comes with a limited or no warranty, while full-price bags typically include a manufacturer's warranty of one to five years. Read the warranty details before you buy, especially if durability is important to you.
Are warehouse club memberships worth it just for luggage?
Probably not, unless you shop there regularly. A Costco membership costs $60 to $120 per year, and the luggage discount is usually 15 to 25 percent. If you are buying a $200 bag, you save $30 to $50, which does not cover the membership cost. But if you already have a membership, checking the luggage section is free.