Updated March 2026.
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You’re taller than most people. Not only do you have to worry about squeezing yourself onto airplanes without bumping your head, but there’s the issue of your luggage, too. It always feels like you’re dragging it along behind you awkwardly. Is there such a thing as “luggage for tall travelers?” If so, what are your best options?
Yes! Some luggage works better for tall travelers. These bags and suitcases can often expand for more packing room or have longer pull bars for when you’re wheeling your luggage around.
The best luggage options for tall travelers (descriptions and pictures below!):
Interested in any of these bags for your travels? You’re in luck. In this article, we’ll expand on each piece of luggage, including specs, sizes, features, and availability. This way, you can shop for a bag that properly fits your height before your next big trip.
The Best Luggage Options for Tall Travelers
For tall travelers, the handle matters as much as the wheels. The best picks below either give you a longer telescoping handle, a roomier checked-bag format, or both.
Travelpro Platinum Elite Rollaboard
A premium softside Rollaboard with a four-stop PowerScope handle, built-in suiter, USB pocket, and a tall-traveler-friendly pull height.
$390.00 on Amazon, price may vary
The Platinum Elite is the strongest fit when you want a carry-on that feels built around a taller stride. The handle reaches 42.5 inches, the sealed wheels roll quietly, and the fold-out suiter keeps dress clothes from getting crushed.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Spinner
The Maxlite 5 is the lighter Travelpro option for travelers who want more packing room without dragging a heavy shell through the airport.
Dakine Split Roller 110L
The Dakine Split Roller is more duffel than classic suitcase, but that is exactly why it works for longer trips, bulky shoes, ski layers, or travelers who pack gear-heavy.
Traveler's Choice Pagosa Set
The Pagosa set is the practical two-bag option: a carry-on for shorter trips and a checked spinner for the weeks when you need the extra room.
Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner
The Amazon Basics spinner is the simple budget choice. It is less refined than the Travelpro bags, but it gives taller travelers an affordable hardside option with spinner wheels and expandable space.
Tall Traveler Luggage at a Glance
Ever given thought to whether you should go with hard or soft luggage? Read our Hard vs. Soft Luggage article to learn more!
Curious about the premium end of the market? Check out our roundup of the most expensive luggage brands to see what the high-end options look like.
Tips for Tall Travelers
Now that you’ve got your luggage all taken care of, here are some handy tips for tall travelers.
- To prevent your knees from hitting the airplane seat in front of you, request a spare pillow. You can place it in front of your knees so they’re not achy by the time you get to your destination.
- Often, you can raise your headrest, so do not forget to do so! Now, if you doze off, you can have pleasant dreams instead of neck pain.
- Your shoes are likely to take up a lot of room in your luggage. If possible, pack the smallest pairs and wear the largest ones. Also, use that opening in your shoes for all it’s worth! Within the openings of your shoes, pack socks, thinner shirts, underwear, anything else that fits.
- Choose tall-people-friendly airlines. For instance, Southwest Airlines offers 32 inches of legroom, as does Virgin America. On Jet Blue flights, you get 33 inches. Most other airlines provide 31 inches or less, which can lead to a less comfortable flight.
Luggage for Tall Travelers – Conclusion
As a taller passenger, you have to choose your luggage carefully. A bag that doesn’t have an extendable carrying handle could bump your ankles and drag awkwardly. If your luggage isn’t tall enough, you also may not be able to fit all of your stuff in it.
The luggage we covered in this article should fit taller travelers much better than a short-handled suitcase. You can’t go wrong with any of the options we laid out above – best of luck!