The main places to shop for luggage

You can buy luggage at department stores, luggage specialty shops, online retailers, warehouse clubs, and discount chains. Each type of store has different prices, selection, and return policies—so where you shop depends on what you need and how much you want to spend.

Department stores like Macy's and Kohl's carry luggage from multiple brands in one place, which makes comparison shopping easier. Luggage specialty retailers like Luggage Pros or local luggage shops often have staff who know the products well and can answer questions about durability and features. Online retailers like Amazon and Walmart offer the widest selection and often the lowest prices, but you cannot touch the bag before buying. Warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam's Club sell a smaller selection at lower prices, but you need a membership. Discount chains like TJ Maxx and Marshalls sell overstock and previous-season luggage at steep discounts.

Key Takeaways

  • Department stores and specialty luggage shops let you see and feel bags in person, which helps you judge weight and handle comfort before you buy.
  • Online retailers have the largest selection and lowest prices, but you pay return shipping if the bag does not fit your needs.
  • Warehouse clubs require membership but offer good prices on popular brands; inventory changes frequently so selection is limited.
  • Discount chains like TJ Maxx sell real luggage at lower prices, not knockoffs, because they buy overstock from manufacturers.
  • Brand websites sometimes offer sales or clearance items, and you can return directly to the maker rather than through a retailer.

Department stores and general retailers

Macy's, Kohl's, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Target all stock luggage year-round. These stores carry multiple brands—usually Samsonite, American Tourister, Delsey, and store brands—so you can compare styles and prices without leaving. Prices are typically mid-range: not the cheapest, but not premium either.

The main advantage is that you can handle the luggage before buying. You can test the wheels, check the handle height, and feel the weight. Return policies are usually generous—most allow returns within 30 to 60 days with a receipt. The downside is that selection is smaller than online, and staff may not know much about luggage construction or durability.

Luggage specialty shops

Independent luggage stores and chains like Luggage Pros focus only on bags and travel gear. Staff at these shops typically know the difference between hard-shell and soft-sided luggage, understand wheel types, and can explain warranty coverage. They often stock brands that department stores do not carry, including higher-end options.

Prices at specialty shops are usually higher than big-box retailers, but you get informed and often a longer warranty or repair service. Many specialty shops will repair zippers, wheels, and handles for a fee, which can extend the life of a bag. If you are buying expensive luggage or need specific features, a specialty shop is worth the trip. To find one near you, search "luggage repair" or "luggage store" plus your city name.

Online retailers

Amazon, Walmart, Target.com, and brand websites like Samsonite.com have the largest selection and often the lowest prices. You can read customer reviews, compare dozens of models at once, and filter by size, weight, color, and price. Many online retailers offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount.

The trade-off is that you cannot see or touch the luggage before it arrives. If the bag is not what you expected—too heavy, handles too short, wheels too noisy—you have to pay return shipping to send it back. Read the dimensions and weight carefully, and check the return policy before you buy. Some retailers like Amazon offer free returns within 30 days; others charge a restocking fee. Brand websites sometimes have better return policies than third-party sellers.

Warehouse clubs

Costco and Sam's Club sell luggage at lower prices than most retailers, but only if you have a membership. Costco typically stocks 5 to 10 luggage options at any given time, rotating seasonally. Sam's Club has a similar selection. Prices are genuinely lower—often 20 to 30 percent below department store prices—because warehouse clubs buy in bulk and keep overhead low.

The downside is limited choice and unpredictable inventory. If you see a bag you like, buy it then; it may not be there next week. Warehouse clubs also have strict return policies: Costco allows returns within two years, but Sam's Club has a shorter window. Both will refund your money if you are not satisfied, even if you have used the luggage.

Discount chains and outlet stores

TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Ross, and HomeGoods sell real luggage from real brands at discounts of 20 to 40 percent. These stores buy overstock, previous seasons, and items with minor cosmetic flaws from manufacturers. The luggage is not counterfeit or lower quality—it is the same product you would buy at full price elsewhere, just cheaper.

Inventory changes constantly, so you have to hunt. You may find a great deal one week and nothing the next. Return policies vary: TJ Maxx allows returns within 30 days with tags attached; Marshalls is similar. Outlet stores run by luggage brands themselves—like a Samsonite outlet—also sell previous seasons and overstock at lower prices. To find brand outlets near you, search "[brand name] outlet" plus your state.

Brand websites and direct sales

Buying directly from a brand's website—Samsonite.com, Delsey.com, Away.com, or Calpak.com—cuts out the middleman and sometimes means lower prices. Many brands run seasonal sales or clearance sections where you can find last year's colors or discontinued models at 30 to 50 percent off. Brand websites also often have the best warranty and customer service because you are dealing with the maker, not a retailer.

The downside is that you still cannot see the bag in person. Brand websites usually have detailed photos, dimension charts, and customer reviews, which helps. Return policies vary by brand: some offer free returns, others charge shipping. Check the return policy before you buy, especially if you are ordering from a smaller or newer brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is luggage cheaper online or in stores?

Online is usually cheaper, especially at warehouse clubs, discount chains, and brand clearance sales. Department stores and specialty shops are more expensive but let you see the bag first. If you know exactly what you want, online is faster and cheaper. If you are unsure, visiting a store to handle the luggage is worth the higher price.

Should I buy luggage at a specialty shop or a big-box store?

Specialty shops are better if you want informed information, repair service, or unusual brands. Big-box stores are better if you want to compare multiple brands quickly and return easily. If you are buying basic luggage for occasional trips, a big-box store is fine. If you travel frequently or want a high-end bag, a specialty shop is worth it.

Are discount chain luggage bags real or fake?

They are real. TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and Ross sell genuine luggage from real brands at lower prices because they buy overstock and previous seasons. The quality is the same as what you would buy at full price; the only difference is the color or year of manufacture.

What is the best time of year to buy luggage?

Luggage goes on sale after major travel seasons: late January after winter holidays, late August after summer travel, and November during Black Friday. Back-to-school sales in August sometimes include luggage. Warehouse clubs and discount chains have sales year-round, so if you need luggage now, do not wait.

Can I return luggage if I have used it?

It depends on the store and the condition. Most department stores and online retailers allow returns within 30 days if the bag is unused and tags are attached. Warehouse clubs like Costco allow returns even after use. Specialty shops and brand websites vary, so check the policy before you buy. If you plan to test the luggage on a trip, ask about the return window first.