Kids' luggage has a tougher job than it looks. It has to be fun enough that a child actually wants to pull it through the airport, small enough for little hands and sturdy enough to survive being dropped, kicked and sat on. For parents, the questions are more practical: will it fit, will it last and is it safe to use? This guide covers what to look for in kids' luggage, what the store's range includes, and how to choose a bag that works for your child and your trip. "Best" depends on your child's age and habits, so use it as a checklist, not a verdict.
What Makes Kids Luggage Different
Kids' suitcases are designed around smaller bodies and shorter trips.
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Smaller size: compact bags are easier for children to pull and lift.
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Playful designs: characters, colours and 3D details make travel feel like an adventure.
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Lighter builds: a bag that is light when empty leaves more of the weight for your child's belongings.
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Simpler layouts: fewer compartments are easier for children to manage.
The kids luggage collection includes several of these styles. Stock changes quickly, and many models showed as sold out when this was written, so check availability before you plan around any of them.
Kids Luggage Options in the Store
18-Inch 3D Square Luggage
Several listings describe an imported 3D square luggage, 18 inches, as a compact size ideal for kids. Designs include a unicorn, Hello Kitty, panda, astronaut and crocodile. The 3D shapes are the main attraction, and the compact size suits younger children and short trips.
20-Inch Character Luggage
The 20-inch listings give inner dimensions excluding wheels of 20 inches in length, 14 inches in width and 9 inches in depth. Designs include Kuromi, Spider-Man, Butterfly, Unicorn, Minion and Barbie. A slightly larger size suits older children or longer stays.
Astro Children's Trolley Suitcase
The Astro is described as a children's trolley suitcase with a cute cartoon design, sized for primary school children, with a small model for both boys and girls.
Check each product page for the exact size, material and features, since they vary by model.
Choosing the Right Size
Younger Children
An 18-inch bag is easier for small children to handle. They can pull it themselves and may be able to lift it a little, which helps them feel independent.
Older Children
A 20-inch bag offers more room, and children who pack their own clothes may need it. Make sure your child can still manage it comfortably when full.
Check Airline Rules
If your child's bag will be a cabin bag, check your airline's current size and weight limits, since they differ and can change. Measure the bag including wheels and handle. The small size luggage collection shows more cabin-size options.
Fun: Choosing a Design Your Child Will Love
A bag your child likes is a bag they will look after. Let them pick from a few suitable options. Think about how long the design will stay appealing, since a character a child loves at five may feel babyish at eight. Neutral colours or classic animal designs tend to last longer than trend-driven ones.
Safe: What to Check for Safety
No listing replaces your own inspection, so check these points when the bag arrives.
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Edges and corners: they should be smooth, with no sharp plastic or exposed metal.
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Zips: they should run smoothly, and the pullers should be easy for small hands to use.
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Handle: a trolley handle should extend and lock firmly, without pinching fingers when it retracts.
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Wheels: they should be firmly attached, and the bag should stay stable when pulled.
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Small parts: make sure decorations such as 3D pieces, charms or stickers are firmly attached and cannot be pulled off easily.
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Weight when packed: a child should be able to manage the bag without strain.
Supervise younger children when they first use the bag, and teach them to keep their fingers away from the trolley rod and zip.
Durable: What Helps a Bag Last
Children are rougher on bags than adults, so durability matters.
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Stitching and seams: they should be even, without loose threads.
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Zips: the zip is often the first part to fail, so test it repeatedly.
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Wheels: smooth, firm wheels survive pavements and airport floors better.
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Shell or fabric: check the description for the material, and feel how firm it is.
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Handle strength: a wobbly handle will not last.
Damage from airline handling is generally not covered by manufacturer warranties, so keep an eye on the bag if it goes into the hold, or have your child carry it as cabin luggage where possible.
Packing Tips for Kids' Luggage
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Let your child help pack, so they know what is in the bag.
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Keep the load light, and put heavier items near the wheels.
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Use small pouches for socks, underwear and toiletries.
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Pack a favourite toy or book on top for easy access.
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Add a luggage tag with your contact details inside the tag, not on the outside where strangers can see it.
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Leave a little room for souvenirs.
Kids' Backpacks as an Alternative
For short trips or school, a backpack can work instead of a suitcase. The backpacks collection includes lighter models, such as the American Tourister Quad and Sest 2.0, described as fine polyester built for everyday use without excess weight. See also our school backpack buying guide for fit and weight advice.
Before You Order
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Decide whether you need an 18-inch or 20-inch bag, based on your child's age and trip length.
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Check the dimensions and features on the product page.
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Let your child choose from a short list of options.
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Check stock, since many kids' models sell out.
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Review the store's return policy, and ask about warranty and delivery for your city.
Final Thoughts
Good kids' luggage is fun enough that children want to use it, sized for small hands, and well made enough to survive real travel. Start with the right size, choose a design your child will like for more than one season, and inspect the zips, wheels, handle and edges when the bag arrives. Compare the specifications for the models you like and check what is in stock.
When you are ready to browse, Ideal Trader Luggage lists kids' luggage alongside suitcases, backpacks and travel accessories, so you can compare them in one place.