The Best Calpak Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
As Travel + Leisure testing editor, a big part of my job involves testing out luggage, and I get asked often about my favorite suitcases and luggage brands. Though I have a growing collection of travel bags, there is one particular suitcase that I’ve been using for nearly two decades, and it’s from Calpak — actually, “California Pak” to be exact (it’s lasted me so long that it has the original branding on it.)
I’ve taken my trusty softside, purple checked suitcase with me on more than 50 different trips across five continents. I’ve rolled it over cobblestones in Cartagena, donkey poop in Santorini, and so many other places, and it’s still going strong (though it’s gotten very dirty along the way). Sadly, my suitcase is so old that I can’t link it for you, but I was curious to see if the latest Calpak luggage lives up to the same standards.
Our T+L team has tested 18 Calpak suitcases and travel bags in our official lab and real-world tests, and I also personally own various Calpak accessories including a water bottle holder and packing cubes. After taking a deep-dive into our team’s testing insights and my own personal experiences, I can say that Calpak continues to impress me with their thoughtful details — including plentiful pockets and compartments to stay organized — and long-lasting designs at reasonable prices. These are my favorite Calpak luggage pieces and accessories worth buying.
Since my beloved checked suitcase is not available online, I found a worthy hardside alternative: the Calpak Evry Medium Luggage. One thing I’ve noticed after testing so many suitcases is that Calpak luggage has some of the best organizational features I’ve ever seen. I love suitcases with zippers and pockets inside to store smaller items, and this one has plenty of different sections and built-in pouches that you can use to group accessories together.
Though it’s on the smaller size for a checked bag, one side is deeper than the other, which made it deceptively spacious. There are stretchy mesh dividers that you can zip shut to keep your clothing from spilling out, though you’d have to be careful that any pointy items or heels don’t rip through (I would recommend a shoe bag to prevent that). The suitcase also has an expandable zipper to add an additional two inches of space if you need more room.
The Details: Hardside checked | 24.5 x 15.25 x 11 inches | 9 pounds | 67-liter capacity | Polycarbonate | Expandable
![Calpak Ambeur Front Pocket Carry-On Luggage](http://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/bADrUKgdyBvROKlrC4M9d9tBHQ8=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/calpak-ambeur-front-pocket-carry-on-luggage-af38597e125b41d79ebe3a3aea411c03.jpg)
For those who prefer to fly with a carry-on, the Calpak Ambeur Front Pocket Carry-on Luggage stands out for its eye-catching metallic color options and front pocket that can hold a laptop up to 16 inches. Not all hardside suitcases have an outer pocket, but it’s such a useful feature for a carry-on to have so you can have easy access to your belongings without unzipping the entire suitcase. When we tested this suitcase in our lab, we noticed that the more we packed inside the bag, the more the lining of the front pocket started to protrude, so try to avoid overstuffing it (it’s also not expandable).
Once again, we loved all of the zippered compartments that kept loose items in place, including a pouch sewn into the suitcase interior that would be useful for jewelry or small valuables. We loved how easy it was to glide the suitcase through our obstacle course, handling sharp turns without a hitch. When we threw the bag off a counter several times to test for durability, the bag endured some superficial scratches. You can avoid those if you carry it on the plane instead of checking it.
The Details: Hardside carry-on | 21 x 14 x 9 inches | 8 pounds | 43-liter capacity | Polycarbonate | Laptop pocket
![Calpak Hue Trunk Luggage](http://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/k5277uit8gaWFjCcG4Tu_CpxeSw=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/calpakhue-78f04d2a6ea1410194e7c7dd23896673.jpg)
I have been on the hunt for a travel trunk for a while now, and I finally found one I love after we tested the Hue Trunk in our luggage tests. Some trunks can feel heavy and weigh you down, but this one felt lightweight and rolled with ease even when we packed it full. It’s spacious yet not too large to handle thanks to its tall, skinny design. However, it would be nice if the handle had more than one height for people who may need a taller setting. The expandable zipper is useful for adding an extra two inches of space (something that most trunks don’t have!).
The slightly flexible exterior proved to be durable after we hit it four times with a baseball bat in different places without a dent in sight. There are luggage feet on the side and bottom to hold the trunk in place when you open it on the ground. They also help guide which direction you should open the trunk so that your clothing doesn’t come pouring out, as only one side of the interior zips fully shut. I also love the long pockets inside that are large enough to hold shoes.
The Details: Hardside checked | 31.5 x 15.5 x 12.5 inches | 11.75 pounds | 108-liter capacity | Polycarbonate | Expandable
![Calpak Luka Soft-sided Carry-on Luggage](http://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/fNNxzGUzYVbo0DD2IniOO3ZicRg=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Calpak-Luka-Soft-sided-Carry-on-Luggage-9b48929f075e441683e8ddaf2197605d.jpg)
You already know that I love my Calpak softside suitcase. Sadly, the brand doesn’t offer any softside checked luggage at the moment. But they do have an equally-impressive carry-on option available in the puffy, water-resistant polyester material that the Luka collection is known for. There’s only one main compartment inside instead of a clamshell design, and the capacity is much smaller than Calpak’s hardside carry-ons — but the payoff is a supremely lightweight bag and compact size that would come in handy on flights with tighter overhead bins. The outer pocket can also hold a larger laptop than the Ambeur Front Pocket Carry-on above, with space for a 17-inch device. During testing, we thought the puffy material created nice padding for any tech inside, though the suitcase handle felt a little flimsier than others we tried. One of the coolest features was the small pocket on the top outer corner of the suitcase, giving you a special spot to stash your passport, phone, and keys.
The Details: Softside carry-on | 21 x 13.75 x 9 inches | 6.6 pounds | 32-liter capacity | Polyester | Laptop pocket
![Calpak Luka Soft-sided Mini Carry-on Luggage](http://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/DINhCXuealI3P6Y4ZskBHSBrXwI=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/calpak-luka-soft-sided-mini-carry-on-luggage-d14b5fa109a446209fb212856838ddc9.jpg)
![Calpak Luka Duffel Bag](http://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/7LN4HmU9RP1DeGYBCqmJjQZ-i-E=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/calpak-luka-duffel-72dbda522ad4485c9cec2d1963e8e25c.jpg)
Though I own the larger version of the Calpak Luka Duffel, I think this 25-liter bag is the perfect size to use as a personal item on a flight — and it’s also versatile enough for everyday use. I love how the dimensions and weight are smaller than the underseater above, but the capacity is actually larger. That makes it a more spacious alternative if you don’t mind toting it around since it doesn’t have wheels (though the padded shoulder straps are more comfortable than the removable crossbody strap). The shoe compartment is useful for keeping dirty shoes separate from your other belongings, though the pocket eats into the interior of the bag rather than sitting underneath. This poofy weekender also comes in more than a dozen different color options (and it’s impossible to choose just one!).
The Details: 12 x 16 x 8 inches | 2 pounds | 25-liter capacity | Polyester | Laptop pocket
![Calpak Terra Laptop Backpack](http://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/Hes4Dbp4A6Uz0RC0XC7GUARXYkE=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/calpak-terra-laptop-backpack-b0105a004f494bbda40f3c04c6d56a33.jpg)
This hefty backpack has an impressive design for travel, featuring a deep main compartment with well-placed compression straps and multiple ways to open it, including a top zipper and a convenient clamshell opening. There’s a padded laptop pocket at the back of the bag that fits up to a 17-inch device. There are an amazing amount of pockets in the main compartment, on the front of the bag, on the sides for a water bottle, and even hidden in the back of the bag as an anti-theft feature for your passport or wallet.
We tested this backpack in our lab and found the padded shoulder straps to be extremely comfortable, and there’s also a sternum strap for extra support. Though it’s large and spacious, it weighs almost three pounds when empty which is heavy for a backpack. If you want to carry it a different way, you can tuck the backpack straps in and use the detachable carrying strap to turn it into a duffel bag instead.
The Details: 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches | 2.9 pounds | 26-liter capacity | Recycled ripstop polyester | Laptop pocket
![Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack](http://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/yQr-EruKlaiMs-eOj3cLSP_7iIM=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/calpak-kaya-laptop-backpack-28c3821e7afc416c92ffd503f96dfe0b.jpg)
I prefer a compact backpack when I’m commuting to work so I can travel light and not bump into everyone on public transportation. Not only did we test this bag in our lab, but I personally own it as well. I love how it sits flat against my back without the bulk while still boasting two moderately sized compartments, including one with a laptop sleeve that can hold a 15-inch device. The faux leather gives the bag an elegant, structured shape, but it’s still flexible enough that you can fold the material back to access your items. Though this bag is smaller than the other backpack on this list, it’s just as heavy, and there is no padding on the shoulder straps or back of the bag. However, I love the rectangular shape and unique stitching, and I think it’s a great price for a stylish backpack that feels durable and looks like real leather. There are more than 20 vibrant color options, including papaya, honey, spearmint, emerald, and more.
The Details: 15.5 x 11.5 x 4.25 inches (main compartment); 15 x 9.8 x 1 inch (laptop compartment) | 3 pound | 11.8-liter capacity | Faux leather | Laptop pocket
Other Calpak Bags I Like
Calpak also makes great accessories and smaller bags, like packing cubes and belt bags. Here are a few more that I personally own and love.
Medium Compression Packing Cubes: I was never a packing cube person until I tried these, and then everything changed. They come in sets of two and are so handy for grouping similar items together like underwear or leggings. After you fill them, you can close the compression zipper to help save space and ultimately fit more inside your suitcase.
Water Bottle Holder: I used to just carry my water bottle around by the handle when I went on my daily walks — until I discovered this fun water bottle holder. I can fit my 32-ounce bottle or my smaller 20-ounce one with room to spare, and there are additional pockets for smaller items like my phone, sunglasses, and keys. Plus, the bag is insulated to prevent drinks from getting hot in the sun.
Luka Belt Bag: I own several fanny packs from different brands, and this is the one I reach for more than any of them. When I’m not toting my water bottle holder on walks or while running errands, I bring this instead, wearing it across my body like a sling bag. I like that it’s more spacious than a lot of other fanny packs for those of us who have a lot of stuff to carry.
Our Testing Process
Every single product on the main list has been tested by either myself or my fellow T+L editors, and I have been present for all of those tests in our New York City lab. To test suitcases, we pack them full to assess organizational features and capacity, wheel them through obstacle courses and over different types of flooring to make sure the wheels and handles work well, and throw the bags off tables to make sure nothing breaks. We also test durability by hitting suitcases with metal baseball bats to see how easily they may dent, scratch, or scuff. We built an airplane set so we could see how easy it is to lift carry-ons into overhead bins and to make sure personal items can fit underneath airplane seats. For weekender bags and backpacks, we wear them around the office for 10-15 minutes to make sure they’re comfortable and well padded. We also place a laptop in the tech pockets to make sure the bags feel sturdy and protective. After our lab tests, we long-term test each product for at least six months to make sure they hold up in real travel situations.
Tips for Buying
Think about your travel habits
Everyone has different packing preferences, but thinking about where you typically travel to and for how long will help you find the best bag for your needs. If you prefer quick getaways or long weekends away, a carry-on suitcase or a duffel bag will serve you well. If you typically take road trips instead of flying, you won’t need to worry about size restrictions as much, but if you opt for train travel or group tours, you’ll have more limited space and may not have room for a checked suitcase — look for a spacious backpack to stay hands-free. If you’re an overpacker or love planning longer journeys, a checked suitcase or a travel trunk is your best bet. You can get a luggage set for matching bags in a variety of sizes. Calpak also has plenty of smaller bags and accessories that can help make packing easier, like packing cubes, shoe bags, travel pouches, cosmetic cases, toiletry bags, and tech organizers.
Decide if you want hardside or softside
Some people prefer hardside suitcases for the protection of the rigid, durable shell, while others prefer softside for the flexible nature and lightweight feel. Hardside suitcases are more prone to denting or scuffing, but softside fabric can be harder to clean. At the moment, Calpak doesn’t offer any checked softside bags, so if you have your heart set on softside, you’ll have to look at the carry-on options only. There is hardside luggage available in all sizes.
If you see a color you love, don’t wait
Calpak often releases limited-edition colors, and they do sell out. If you fall in love with a bag in a particular shade, don’t hesitate because it may not come back (though Calpak has brought back fan-favorite shades on occasion, like the recent resurgence of sage in the Luka collection — my favorite!).
Frequently Asked Questions
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Where can you buy Calpak?
You can find the largest assortment of products at calpaktravel.com, where you can also sign up for the free VIT (“very important traveler”) program to earn points and rewards when shopping. You can also find a small selection of Calpak bags and accessories at Nordstrom, and there are sometimes discontinued styles at discount stores like Marshalls, T.J.Maxx, and Saks Off 5th.
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When is Calpak’s anniversary sale?
Calpak’s anniversary sale takes place in October, but the brand also has other sales throughout the year, often surrounding various holidays and shopping events like Memorial Day and Black Friday. Calpak sometimes offers exclusive discounts during live shopping events.
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Does Calpak have a warranty?
Calpak offers several different warranties based on the product, which can be a one-year, two-year, or five-year limited warranty. The warranties cover manufacturing defects — not incidents caused by wear and tear, accidents, or airport damage (you’ll need to get your own personal travel insurance for that). The warranties only apply within the continental U.S., and you will need to pay for shipping to return the product. You’ll have to show proof of purchase (purchased directly from the Calpak website, not another retailer), and there is also a $24.95 service fee to replace luggage. Calpak will repair or replace the defective product with either the same or a similar product.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Jackie Cucco has regularly traveled with the same Calpak suitcase over the course of 17 years, using it on more than 50 different trips across five continents. As the T+L testing editor, she participates in every luggage lab test, trying out all of the popular luggage brands. She also owns other Calpak products that she regularly uses, including a belt bag, a duffel, a laptop backpack, a water bottle holder, packing cubes, and more.
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