Whether you’re looking for high quality goods or just want to support local businesses as much as possible, buying American made products is a good way to do it. However, certain types of products are rarely made locally unless they’re handcrafted. That goes for luggage too. Over the years, American luggage and bag companies have shifted production to cheaper sources like China and either have everything made completely there or have all the components made there and assembled here. You’re more likely to find American totes or duffel bags in canvas and leather rather than suitcases and wheeled travel bags. There may now be a slow revival in American-made luggage, however, and we have done our research and found a few of the best made in USA luggage that should satisfy the criteria.
While we’ve tried to keep to only the choices where the entire piece of luggage is made in the USA, we also have selected a few very good pieces where the components are made elsewhere but then assembled here.
Wheeled Luggage Sets Made in USA
Made in the USA wheeled luggage is harder to find than backpacks, duffels and messenger bags. However, here are 3 great options for single travelers as well as families. They are all hardside options, as there don’t seem to be any softsided ones. We have reviewed and picked some other top rated hard shelled spinners and softsided 4-wheeled suitcases that are not made in the USA.
inUSA Hardside Spinner Luggage Made in USA
With the purpose of bringing back manufacturing jobs to the US, inUSA imports materials and assembles their hardsided spinner suitcases in the USA. Each collection includes a carry on bag, a medium-sized checked bag and a large checked bag. The dimensions vary slightly between the collections, so you can choose the ones best suited to your travel needs.
Almost all the collections feature dual spinner wheels that move 360 degree, with a few sporting single spinner wheels, push button retractable handles, and top and side carry handles. On the checked size bags, 4 feet on the opposite side to the handles to allow them to be set down sideways anywhere. Most of them can be locked with the inbuilt TSA combination lock for the zippers. The ones that don’t feature this can be locked with your own luggage lock.
The shells are made of a lightweight ABS and Polycarbonate combination. Some collections comes with a water and scratch resistant brushed metallic finish, while the other collections collections come with a textured Micro Diamond Finish, each in their own distinctive pattern. All the bags feature logo patterned lining inside, a zippered divider panel to separate the two halves, a zippered mesh pocket and restraining straps.
What’s nice about the inUSA spinners is that they’re competitively priced even though they’re assembled locally. they’re reliably functional and durable.
Browse through all the available inUSA individual spinners and 2 and 3 piece sets at Walmart, or on Amazon.
Roam Luggage
The Roam luggage line is sourced for components from abroad but is assembled in Vidalia in the state of Georgia, USA.
So, here’s the lowdown on Roam’s luggage — basically, it’s the BFF of travel gear. Created by the cool folks who brought you TUMI, Roam’s all about making your trips drama-free and stylish. What sets them apart? Customization galore! From wheels and zippers to front and back hardside shell color, you’re the designer. Picture this: millions of combos, including their snazzy “Roam racing stripe.” And, it’s all hand-finished in the USA for that extra touch of quality. We consider the Roam Carry-On Front Pocket Expandable as the best made in USA luggage carry on.
Now, let’s talk practical. Those 360-degree spinner wheels? Life-changing. Handles that don’t get stuck and a design that slides into overhead bins like a pro? Check. The chamfered edge and lightweight build? Effortless to handle. You can even add accessibility to your carry on luggage with a front pocket. It’s like they thought of everything.
But it’s not just about looks. Roam’s got your back with water-resistant zippers and recycled-material lining. The TSA-approved lock is a breeze to open, and the military-grade stitching? Top-notch. Roam isn’t just luggage; it’s your trusty sidekick for adventures. And with a lifetime guarantee plus a 100-day trial, it’s like having a buddy who’s got your back.
In a nutshell, if you want luggage that’s as chill as it is reliable, Roam’s the way to go. If there’s any criticism we have about this brand, it’s that all this comes at a cost.
Tough Traveler luggage, bags and accessories run the gamut of wheeled luggage, duffels, totes, briefcases, and more in both carry on sizes as well as larger for every type of traveler. With their headquarters in Schenectady, NY, everything is American-made and boasts attention to detail, design and features using high quality materials. If you’re looking for convenience, comfort, form and long lasting luggage that’s solely made in the United States, then you can’t go wrong with this brand.
The products aren’t cheap but you’re sure to find something in a color that suits you. There are 4 different main materials used depending on the piece of luggage or bag. 1000 denier Cordura nylon that looks a bit like canvas is used for the toughest luggage, a 400 denier Packcloth nylon that’s lighter and slicker but a bit less durable, a Saddlecloth nylon that feels like velvet but is resistant to weather and washable, and an attractive and lightweight Diamond Ripstop nylon with a shimmery surface.
An example of their very versatile luggage is the 1000 denier Cordura nylon Wheeled Trekker Backpack that you see here. It incorporates various packcloth sections that add an element of sophistication. This isn’t your average bag; it’s a lightweight, exceptionally sturdy, and impressively compact marvel.
Let’s talk functionality. The hide-away backpack straps are not just thick and padded for comfort; they can be effortlessly unhooked and neatly tucked into the back pad when it’s time to roll. The handle extends gracefully to 36 inches with a contoured hand-grip. Yet, it’s ingeniously designed to lower to a mere 1.5 inches above the bag, ideal for hassle-free plane belly-packing or carry-on maneuvers.
Internally, it’s a marvel of organization. The main pocket is generously flexible, accommodating your essentials with ease. The large zippered front pocket is equally versatile, featuring compression straps for that extra security. A reversible reflective strip adds a touch of practicality, allowing you to choose between visibility and subtlety. As for convenience, two elastic-topped side pockets stand ready for your water bottles, electronics, and more.
Completing the ensemble, a removable and adjustable long shoulder strap offers an alternative carrying option.
One Bag Solution Luggage Made in the USA
Which bags are made in USA completely? Now, you can find quite a few duffle bags made of nylon, leather or canvas from independent companies specializing in handcrafted goods, but if you’re looking for a “one bag fits all” solution from actual luggage manufacturers, then these American-made duffel bags/soft-sided suitcases are perfect.
The Tri-Star is made by Tom Bihn, a company that manufactures all kinds of bags for travel, work and daily life in its factory in Seattle. The Tri-Star is for the extremely organized traveler who doesn’t overpack but wants to take just one bag for all of his or her 3 to 4 night trips. Not only is it carry on sized, but it will also fit under airline seats as it measures 19″ x 13″ x 8″ with a 33 litre capacity. Looking for ballistic luggage made in USA? You have a choice between a lighter 400 denier ripstop nylon fabric bag weighing 2 lb 12 oz and a ballistic nylon 1050 denier bag weighing 3 lb 6 oz.
The bag as is comes with double padded top handles and a side grab handle and two padded backpack straps that can be unclipped at the bottom and hidden away in their own zipped pocket. These are adjustable for length. You can optionally purchase the padded shoulder strap for another transport option or use your own shoulder strap if you have one. The strap clips on to the two D-rings on the corners of the top long side. For extra comfortable backpack use, there is also an optional waist strap and a sternum strap.
There are compartments and pockets galore with customizable add-ons that make this a one-bag fits all kinds of trips from work to leisure. Every pocket and compartment also has O-rings for you to attach all kinds of accessories. You can use either your own or Tom Bihn’s packing cubes for further organization of your clothes and accessories, and if you intend to also carry a laptop or tablet, there are optional padded caches that you can buy in various sizes so that your gadget has a snug fit for complete protection. The cache can be packed in the double zipped center main compartment along with other items, like an optional Freudian Slip that is a tech gadget organizer. There are two guard rail clips in the center compartment that are meant to attach to the cache. This turns your Tr-Star into a checkpoint-friendly bag at the security screening lanes because you can just pull out the cache holding your gadget while it is still attached to the bag. No need to remove the gadget to place on a tray.
On either side of the center compartment are two double zipped compartments that open fully to lie flat for packing and can also accommodate packing cubes. One compartment also comes with adjustable restraining straps for clothes. You can use the other compartment for a pair of shoes and other accessories like a compact hair dryer, toiletry bag, etc. This compartment features a zip-out divider that divides it into two unequal sections. If you don’t zip it up you get one large packing space.
There are three horizontal zippered pockets on the front exterior for various items like a paperback book, your phone, keys, earphones. Their depths range from very deep to shallow. To the right of those is a curved vertical zippered pocket that expands to hold a small water bottle or travel umbrella.
This bag is easy to overpack till it becomes quite heavy. If you’re carry a DSLR or laptop along with several days’ worth of clothes, it could easily hold around 20-22 lbs. It is smaller than a full-sized carry on though, so you won’t find it unwieldy. The Absolute Shoulder Strap is recommended for carry such a heavy load on your shoulder.
If you’re traveling for 3 or more days and want to only take a carry on bag, then consider the Red Oxx Air Boss. It is a full-sized domestic carry on bag measuring 22″L x 8″W x 14″H and weighing 3.9 lbs. Its capacity is 40 liters and is available in several colors. Red Oxx makes some of the best American made luggage for adventure travel and the Air Boss is probably its most popular bag.
Made of water resistant Cordura nylon, closed-cell foam sides, and soft red nylon lining, the seams and stress points are double stitched and bonded for extra toughness in construction. This bag can be carried in two ways – by the detachable claw shoulder strap or by the dual duffel straps. If you pack the bag full and it becomes really heavy, it is recommended that you buy an extra claw shoulder strap so that the two can be used like backpack straps to distribute the weight over two shoulders.
The bag is divided into 3 compartments that open clam-style via large dual corded zippers for lay-flat packing. The two outer compartments feature dual restraining straps to keep your clothes in place wrinkle free. You can also use your own travel packing organizers here if you like more organization. The middle compartment is great for tech accessories, a pair of shoes, and even a laptop, although you have to protect the laptop in its own sleeve.
There are three external pockets. On the back there is one small zippered pocket that can fit your smartphone and one large slip pocket for a magazine or newspaper. On the front is one large zippered pocket for a tablet and toiletries.
This bag can become very heavy when packed full so carrying it over long distances may not be too comfortable. If you’re the kind that likes to have lots of pockets, then this bag may not be for you, but if construction quality and lots of room is important, then you can’t go wrong with the Air Boss.
If you love quilted bags but want American-made ones, the Cinda B team takes great pride in crafting each bag at the brand’s headquarters in Fort Wayne, Indiana. They meticulously design and sew the bags, reflecting a commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Cinda B provides a diverse range of styles and color options, offering a selection of hundreds of combinations.
The Cinda B Carry-On Rolly is a game-changer for any traveler. Its innovative design, especially the Big-Mouth™ opening, sets it apart from other rolling suitcases. The unsnapping feature at both ends reveals a spacious interior, equipped with three large pockets, perfect for organized packing. This distinctive feature not only simplifies the packing process but also makes accessing your essentials a breeze. Once you experience the convenience of the Big-Mouth™ opening, it’s hard to imagine using any other travel bag.
The thoughtful design extends to practical details. The Snap Around Handle Straps and Telescoping Handle enhance portability, offering a smooth travel experience. The exterior features, including one slip pocket and one zip pocket, add to the bag’s functionality. Stain-resistant material ensures durability and easy maintenance, a crucial aspect for frequent travelers. The signature rolling suitcase comes in eleven stylish patterns, allowing users to travel with both convenience and flair. For a complete travel set, the Carry-On Rolly pairs seamlessly with Cinda B’s Super Tote, fitting perfectly over the suitcase.
Compact yet spacious, the dimensions of 21″ W x 11.5″ D x 12.5″ H, with an 8″ handle drop, make it an ideal carry-on companion. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a novice explorer, the Cinda B Carry-On Rolly is a must-have, offering a perfect blend of style and functionality for your journeys.
Flowfold Conductor – 40L Duffle Bag
The Flowfold Conductor carry-on duffle is a game-changer for travelers seeking a perfect blend of durability and lightweight design. Crafted from weather-repellent EcoPak™ fabric, this rugged duffle boasts a TSA-approved 40L capacity main compartment, providing ample space for a week’s worth of clothes or adventure essentials. The YKK® water-repellent zippers ensure your belongings stay dry, even in unpredictable weather conditions.
Weighing in at just 12.7 oz (360 g), the Conductor is remarkably light without compromising strength. Its abrasion-resistant base adds an extra layer of durability, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. The thoughtful design includes a convenient side stash pocket, perfect for quick access to keys, phones, or a good book. The double zipper closure allows easy access to the spacious main compartment, while the adjustable shoulder strap and top carrying handles offer flexibility in transportation.
What sets the Conductor apart is its clean style coupled with wild durability, striking the perfect balance for those who appreciate both aesthetics and functionality. Proudly made in Maine, USA, this carry-on duffle is not just a travel companion but a testament to American craftsmanship. Whether embarking on a week abroad or a road trip across the country, the Conductor ensures you stay on the move with style and ease.
Korchmar Twain Leather Weekender
The Korchmar Twain Leather Weekender is a travel companion that seamlessly blends style and functionality. Crafted in the USA with full grain American leather, this 22″ duffel bag is a testament to quality and durability. Its compact design allows it to snugly fit into overhead compartments on most airlines, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travel. The solid brass antiqued hardware not only adds a touch of vintage charm but also ensures lasting resilience.
The thoughtful design features of the Twain include clamp down ends that allow for expansion, providing increased interior capacity as needed. The fully lined interior, made with signature 6.4 oz yarn-dyed twill, exudes a sense of luxury. Practicality meets elegance with interior zippered pockets. The inclusion of a removable and adjustable shoulder strap with an ergonomic pad adds to the bag’s versatility, ensuring comfort during extended journeys.
What sets the Twain apart is its commitment to the aging process. The full grain leather is finished with natural oils and waxes, developing a beautiful patina over time. This bag is not just an accessory; it’s a testament to a heritage brand that specializes in fine leather goods. With customizable monogram patches on the exterior, the Twain becomes a personalized statement of timeless sophistication. Handcrafted with care, this Made in the USA duffel bag is more than a travel essential; it’s a companion that evolves with the character expected from a brand synonymous with excellence.