Luggage Sets vs. Individual Suitcases : What’s Best for Your Travel Style?

May 30, 2025
Travelling Tips

When planning a vacation, your luggage might not be the most exciting thing to think about—but the right luggage can make or break your travel experience. Whether you’re jetting off for a weekend city escape or embarking on a month-long international adventure, the debate comes down to this:

Should you invest in a luggage set, or buy individual suitcases as needed?

Let’s break down the pros and cons of both options so you can choose what suits your travel style best.

🧳 What Is a Luggage Set?

A luggage set typically includes two to four pieces :

– A carry-on (usually 20-22 inches)
– A medium checked suitcase (24-26 inches)
– A large checked suitcase (28-30 inches)
– Sometimes a weekender or toiletry bag

These pieces are designed to work together in terms of size, design, and functionality—a visual and practical match.

✅ Benefits of Investing in a Luggage Set

1. Cost-Effective
Buying a 3-piece set is often cheaper than purchasing each size individually. Many brands offer bundles that save you 15–30% overall.

2. Coordinated Look
If you love things to match (and who doesn’t love that Insta-ready airport photo?), a set gives you a sleek, professional look.

3. Sized for Every Trip
Short getaway? Grab the carry-on. Long-haul vacation? Use the large spinner. You’ll always have the right size ready to go.

4. Stacking & Storage
Luggage sets are often nestable—the smaller ones fit into the larger ones for easy storage when not in use.

5. Ideal for Families or Shared Travel
Going with a partner or kids? You can divide pieces based on each person’s needs. Everyone gets a suitcase that matches but fits them.

❌ Drawbacks of a Luggage Set

– You might not use every piece equally. Some travelers rarely need the largest size.
– You’re locked into one style/brand, even if your needs change.
– Slightly bulkier upfront investment—$150–$300+ depending on brand.

✨ Buying Individual Suitcases : Why Some Travelers Prefer It

If your travel style is more flexible, or you prefer a custom mix of luggage brands, buying individual pieces gives you more control.

✅ Benefits of Buying Individual Suitcases

1. Tailored to Your Travel Needs
Solo traveler who only does short trips? A sleek 22″ carry-on is all you need. No need to buy more than you’ll use.

2. Mix and Match Features
Love Samsonite wheels but prefer a Delsey handle? Want one hard-shell and one soft-shell? Buying separately lets you customize functionality.

3. Upgrade Over Time
As travel habits change, you can replace or add pieces slowly instead of replacing a full set.

❌ Drawbacks of Individual Suitcases

– More expensive in the long run—no bundle discount.
– May not look cohesive—mismatched colors, shapes, and aging.
– Can make packing for couples or families more chaotic if you all have different types of luggage.

🧳 One Big Suitcase vs. Multiple Small Ones?

If you are headed abroad and trying to pack smart, here’s a helpful comparison :

One Large Suitcase
✅ Great for long trips or if you like having “everything” in one place
✅ Easier to check and manage than juggling multiple bags
❌ Can be heavy—may hit airline weight limits faster
❌ Difficult to lift/carry on stairs or public transport
❌ Lose all your stuff if your one suitcase is lost

Multiple Smaller Suitcases
✅ Pack by category (e.g., clothes in one, shoes in another)
✅ Distribute weight better
✅ Useful if traveling with others—you can share the load
❌ May have to pay extra baggage fees
❌ Harder to manage if you’re traveling solo

What Type of Traveler Are You? 👩‍💼

🌟 Final Verdict : What’s Best for YOU?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. A luggage set offers the best value and flexibility for most travelers, especially if you travel often or with family. But if you prefer personalized functionality or rarely need large luggage, buying individual pieces may suit you better.

Our Travel Pick ✈️: Coolife 3-Piece Luggage Set (Purple)

One of our favorite budget-friendly, stylish, and durable options is the Coolife 3-Piece Hardshell Set.
✅ TSA locks, spinner wheels, lightweight design, and gorgeous color options (like Purple #7D5A8A!).

🔗 Shop the Coolife Set Now