If you take power outlets and USB ports for granted, don’t expect to plug in so easily when traveling by air. Many older airport terminals and aircraft still haven’t been retrofitted with USB ports or outlets. Others reserve their outlets for flight information displays or are hidden away, not intended for public use.
Today’s savvy, tech-enabled, travelers roll around suitcases equipped with USB ports that let you plug in and charge no matter where you are. Our picks this year showcase these suitcases at all price points starting as low as $70.
How do these suitcases work?
In these suitcases, you’ll typically find a USB port on the outside shell. This port is covered by a plastic or rubberized door that protects the port itself from dirt and grime. A wire connects the port to a removable battery pack (sold separately) housed in its own special pocket.
At under $70, the Piazza 22" Smart Spinner from U.S. Traveler is our least expensive pick in this category
You can read more about these battery packs in our article, Choosing the Right Battery Pack for Your Trip. You can also see our picks for battery packs in Editors Pick 2018 - Portable Battery Packs.
Our Picks for Luggage with USB Ports
Like our other editors' picks, these are arranged in no particular order. They run the gamut between entry-level and mid-range. Suitcases with USB ports are still a novelty. For all the convenience they add, we still haven't found one in higher-end luxury bags, but we expect that to change in 2019.
1. Samsonite Flexis Carry-on Spinner
The biggest selling point of this USB-enabled suitcase (list: $200) is its generous front "Quick Change" pocket, which let's you tuck away multiple changes of clothes. This is the perfect bag to take if you're flying into a different climate from the one you're leaving or if you anticipate a visit to the beach before you check into the hotel. We also love that it's fabric shell is made from 100% post-consumer recycled bottles.
Samsonite Flexis Softside Luggage, Jet Black, Carry-On 20
Available from: Amazon
2. Samsonite Spinner Underseater
This under seater (list: $120) from Samsonite flies with you always, whether in the seat in front of you or overhead. That means you'll be able to charge from its USB port throughout your trip. It's also light and packs an impressive amount, with more mesh pockets, straps, and sleeves than we expect for its size.
Spinner Underseater with USB Port Black
Available from: Amazon
3. Travelpro Crew 11 21" Carry-on Expandable Spinner with Suiter
Also featured in this year's Editors' Picks for Business Luggage, this Crew 11 series spinner delivers excellent value for the price. (list: $229) In addition to its USB port, this mid-range suitcase provides a suiter to keep your dress clothes and suits wrinkle-free. It's also exceptionally light.
4. U.S. Traveler Piazza 22" Spinner
At under $70, this entry-level hardshell puts the USB port suitcase in reach of all budgets. Everything else about the Piazza is simple, which at this price point is perfectly fine by us. Inside, you'll find two simple compartments divided by a zip-up divider with a built-in pocket. Compression straps latch to contain one compartment. Outside, you'll find spinner wheels and side and top handles.
5. Travelpro Crew Executive Choice 2
Designed for frequent business travelers, the Crew Executive (list: $520, on sale for $224) is a wheeled tote that combines briefcase and carry-on. Aside from the plethora of pockets and compartments, this suitcase promises durability through its ballistic nylon shell, in-line skate wheels, and SUPRA zipper heads- all backed by a lifetime warranty. And yes, it also comes with a USB port.
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