Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Briggs & Riley Baseline
Best Lifetime WarrantyTravelpro Maxlite Air
Best Lightweight OptionPrice
$500-$700
$130-$200
Summary
The only hardshell luggage brand with a truly unconditional lifetime warranty — including airline damage. Reddit's buy-it-for-life community won't consider anything else.
Travelpro's lightest hardshell line, praised by heavy travelers for holding up beautifully while keeping weight down. A strong middle ground between budget and premium.
Pros
- Unconditional lifetime warranty covers airline damage — unmatched in the industry
- Wirecutter calls it the highest-quality carry-on they tested
- Higher proportion of usable interior space than any other spinner tested
- Zippers, wheels, and handles all built to premium standards
- Lightweight construction ideal for maximizing checked bag weight allowances
- Praised by heavy travelers for long-term durability
- More affordable than Travelpro's Platinum Elite line
- Available in both carry-on and checked sizes
Cons
- Significantly more expensive than competitors ($500-$700+)
- Heavier than some polycarbonate-only options
- Overkill for occasional travelers who don't need lifetime coverage
- Warranty covers airline damage only for the first year
- Not as premium-feeling as the Platinum Elite
- Fewer color options than Away or Briggs & Riley
Our take
Briggs & Riley costs more upfront, but it's the last bag you'll ever buy. The warranty covers airline damage, which no other brand matches — that alone makes it worth the premium for serious travelers.
The Maxlite Air is what you get when you want Travelpro quality without the Platinum Elite price tag. Real frequent flyers who own both say it holds up just as well for most trips.
Buy
