No matter how small the carry-on size shrinks, our rolling luggage still seems to take up way too much space in our closets. With a bulky profile that dominates any closet, suitcases are just hard to store. That's why we love folding suitcases, a unique class of luggage that has all of the features you want from a good bag (like telescoping handles and wheels) but folds flat for low-profile storage. We've rounded up ten that will perform well on the road and then fold away when you return home.
(Photo: Thinkstock/iStock)
Biaggi ZipSak
The Biaggi ZipSak is the smallest storing suitcase we've ever seen, thanks to its unique Z-Fold design. This origami-style fold turns your suitcase into a neat square with a carry handle that you can fit into a drawer. Unfurl the ZipSak and you have a lightweight suitcase (4.3 pounds for the carry-on size) with four multi-directional spinner wheels. SmarterTravel readers can use the promo code: TRAVEL30 for 30 percent off at Biaggi.com. The ZipSak is also in stock on Amazon.
(Photo: Biaggi)
Samsonite Water Resistant Duffel Set
Heading to a wet weather destination? This Samsonite Duffel Set is made from fabric that's coated for extreme water resistance. This bag is also a good ship mate, since it folds down to be nearly flat and can be easily tucked away in a small stateroom.
(Photo: Biaggi)
Lipault Paris Premium Collection
Lipault is one of the pioneer folding luggage brands, and we love the new Premium line. The 22-inch carry-on clocks in at just about six pounds, thanks to its lightweight nylon twill exterior. The suitcase collapses to be flat, but doesn't skimp on features like 360-degree rotating wheels, two padded carry handles, and a smooth telescoping handle. It's available on Amazon and Lipault's website.
(Photo: Lipault)
IKEA UPPTACKA
IKEA is known for its furniture, but did you know that it also sells luggage? (Thankfully, no assembly is required on suitcases.) The UPPTACKA has four silent-running wheels, plenty of organizational pockets, and a back pocket for your passport and boarding pass. When it's not in use, fold it flat and store it under your IKEA bed.
(Photo: IKEA)
Delsey Solution
The Delsey Solution has a patent-pending folding system that reduces its volume by 75 percent, so you can slide it under your bed or in other small spaces. Plus, it comes with a fitted PVC cover that will protect your luggage from dirt and dust when it's not in use. When you are using it, it has smooth rolling wheels and an easy-access front pocket.
(Photo: Delsey)
5 Cities Cabin Approved Hand Luggage
Taking a budget airline any time soon? You'll need this bag from 5 Cities, which is specifically sized for airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet that have strict carry-on restrictions. To fold it flat, just pull out the plastic support and remove the wheels.
(Photo: 5 Cities)
Road Warrior M-Series Collapsible Upright Suitcase
The Road Warrior M-Series quickly collapses to 6 inches deep by using its Micro-Pop design. Just pull the ripcords to flatten out the bag, and then push the sides to spring it back open. The Road Warrior has all the features of a regular suitcase, like a compression storage sleeve, a retracting name tag, and durable ballistic nylon fabric.
(Photo: Road Warrior)
Eagle Creek No Matter What Duffel
Eagle Creek's super portable No Matter What Rolling Duffel can be rolled and stashed into its included stuff pouch (wheels and all!). Use it as a rolling suitcase, with its heavy-duty two wheels; or carry it over rough terrain with the padded shoulder strap. Its water repellant fabric and protective storm flap will keep your stuff safe from sudden rain showers or mystery airplane liquids.
(Photo: Eagle Creek)
Barracuda
Currently available for pre-order, the brand-new Barracuda suitcase should ship in December, just in time for holiday gifts. The suitcase promises to be the "world's first collapsible hardside luggage with built-in laptop tray, USB charger, location tracker, and more". With all of these features, it's surprisingly lightweight at just 8.5 pounds.
(Photo: Barracuda)
Biaggi Contempo Collection
The problem with some folding suitcases is that they don't hold their shape, making packing them difficult. Not the Biaggi Contempo line, which uses hard side panels that fold up and down (like a box) to create a suitcase shape when you need it and condenses to 50 percent of its original size when you don’t. The bags are available in sizes that will suit every traveler, from an 18-inch cabin bag to a 28-inch upright spinner. SmarterTravel readers can use the promo code: TRAVEL30 for 30 percent off at Biaggi.com.
(Photo: Biaggi)
Read the original story: Best Foldable Rolling Suitcases for Easy Storage by Caroline Morse, who is a regular contributor to SmarterTravel.
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