Vintage suitcases have long been symbols of class and sophistication, reflecting the elegance of their eras. These iconic brands epitomize luxury and style, each contributing unique designs and innovations that continue to be celebrated today.
1. Globe-Trotter
Globe-Trotter, founded in 1897 in England, is renowned for its vulcanized fibreboard suitcases. These lightweight yet durable trunks became a hallmark of elite travel in the early 20th century.
In 1900, Globe-Trotter patented its signature design, appealing to discerning travelers seeking both style and functionality. The brand’s suitcases have been favored by royalty and explorers alike, exemplifying timeless elegance.
Continuing to impress with their craftsmanship, Globe-Trotter pieces are cherished by collectors and globetrotters. Their trunks embody the spirit of adventure and class that has defined luxury travel for over a century.
2. Belber
Founded in 1891, Belber quickly became an emblem of luxury travel. This American leather goods company was known for handcrafted trunks and suitcases boasting patented features like garment rod systems.
Belber’s innovation and attention to detail set them apart in the early 20th century. Their products were widely admired for their elegance and durability, making them a favorite among luxury travelers.
Today, vintage Belber pieces are collectibles, representing a bygone era of sophistication and style. Their legacy of quality craftsmanship continues to inspire modern luggage design.
3. Finnigans
Finnigans, established in 1830 in Manchester, was renowned for its exquisite leather trunks. Crafted for ocean liners and railway travel, their pieces were designed to appeal to the upper classes.
The brand’s commitment to quality and luxury made Finnigans a favorite among the elite, creating luggage that was both functional and stylish. Their trunks were crafted with meticulous attention to detail and superior leatherwork.
Though the company no longer operates, Finnigans’ legacy lives on in the collectible trunks that capture the elegance and grandeur of 19th-century travel.
4. Tanner Krolle
Since 1856, Tanner Krolle has been synonymous with bespoke luxury. This London-based brand became beloved by royalty and celebrities, supplying custom leather luggage to clients like Jackie Onassis and the British Royal Family.
The craftsmanship and attention to detail in Tanner Krolle’s pieces set them apart, creating luggage that was as stylish as it was functional. The brand’s commitment to excellence made them a symbol of class and sophistication.
Today, Tanner Krolle remains a prestigious name in luxury luggage, with a legacy that continues to inspire admiration and respect.
5. H. J. Cave & Sons
Dating back to 1839, H. J. Cave & Sons was a pioneer in lightweight leather trunks and railway baskets. Holding Royal Warrants as suppliers to Queen Victoria and Princess Victoria, the brand was synonymous with prestige.
Their innovative designs and superior quality made them a favorite among the elite. H. J. Cave & Sons’ commitment to craftsmanship and elegance set them apart in the world of luxury luggage.
Though the company is no longer in operation, their legacy lives on in the collectible pieces that continue to capture the grandeur of Victorian travel.
6. Rimowa
Founded in Germany in 1898, Rimowa revolutionized luggage with its aluminum-grooved suitcases in the 1930s. Known for sleek engineering and iconic designs, Rimowa quickly became a staple of luxury travel.
Their suitcases, recognized for robustness and style, have been celebrated in exhibitions worldwide. Rimowa’s commitment to innovation and quality made them a favorite among discerning travelers.
Today, the brand continues to lead the way in luggage design, with pieces that blend functionality and elegance, setting the standard for modern travel.
7. Hartmann
Hartmann, an American luxury luggage brand, has roots in the early 1900s. Prized for handcrafted leather and elegant designs, Hartmann became a symbol of mid-century travel sophistication.
Their commitment to quality and craftsmanship set them apart, creating luggage that was both functional and stylish. Hartmann’s pieces were cherished by travelers seeking elegance and durability.
Today, Hartmann’s legacy lives on in its vintage pieces, which continue to be celebrated for their timeless appeal and superior craftsmanship.
8. Samsonite
Introduced in the early 20th century, Samsonite became a household name by offering rugged and reliable suitcases. Known for their blend of style and function, Samsonite pieces were favored by discerning travelers.
Their commitment to innovation and quality set them apart, creating luggage that was both durable and stylish. Samsonite’s vintage pieces are now collectible symbols of mid-century elegance.
Today, Samsonite remains a leader in the luggage industry, continuing to set the standard for travel with pieces that blend tradition and modernity.
9. American Tourister
Founded in the 1930s, American Tourister offered mainstream quality and design. Their vintage pieces from the 1950s-60s are now collectible symbols of modest elegance.
American Tourister’s blend of style and affordability made them a favorite among travelers seeking quality without compromise. Their pieces, known for durability and design, continue to be cherished by collectors.
Today, American Tourister remains a respected name in the luggage industry, offering products that blend tradition with innovation, capturing the spirit of mid-century travel.
10. Tumi
Launched in the 1970s, Tumi became renowned for its military-inspired designs. Vintage Tumi cases, often made with ballistic nylon, became status symbols in later decades.
Known for durability and innovation, Tumi’s pieces appealed to discerning travelers seeking both style and functionality. Their commitment to quality set them apart in the luxury luggage market.
Today, Tumi continues to be a respected name in the industry, with pieces that blend tradition with modern design, capturing the spirit of adventure and class.
11. Pierre Cardin
Though better known as a fashion house, Pierre Cardin also released designer luggage lines in the mid-20th century. Their pieces combined bold style with luxury craftsmanship, appealing to fashion-forward travelers.
Pierre Cardin’s commitment to innovation and design set them apart, creating luggage that was both stylish and functional. Their pieces remain highly collectible, representing a unique blend of fashion and travel.
Today, Pierre Cardin’s legacy continues to inspire admiration, with vintage pieces celebrated for their design and elegance, capturing the essence of luxury travel.
12. Zero Halliburton
Since the 1930s, Zero Halliburton has been known for its aluminum travel cases. Favored by business and affluent travelers, their pieces are recognized for their industrial style and bulletproof construction.
Zero Halliburton’s commitment to innovation and quality set them apart, creating luggage that was both functional and stylish. Their pieces remain highly collectible, representing a unique blend of industrial design and luxury.
Today, Zero Halliburton continues to be a respected name in the industry, with pieces that blend tradition with modern design, capturing the spirit of adventure and class.
13. Skyway
An American brand popular from the 1950s into the 1970s, Skyway offered hard-shell suitcases in grooved or molded styles. Their pieces evoke mid-century airport glamour, appealing to travelers seeking style and durability.
Skyway’s commitment to quality and design set them apart, creating luggage that was both functional and stylish. Their pieces remain highly collectible, representing a unique blend of style and functionality.
Today, Skyway continues to be a respected name in the industry, with pieces that capture the spirit of mid-century travel and modern innovation.
14. L.L. Bean
Starting with rugged outdoor gear, L.L. Bean expanded into travel cases and trunks in the mid-20th century. Their vintage canvas-and-leather designs are now collectible Americana.
L.L. Bean’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship set them apart, creating luggage that was both functional and stylish. Their pieces remain highly collectible, representing a unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Today, L.L. Bean continues to be a respected name in the industry, with pieces that blend tradition with modern design, capturing the spirit of adventure and class.
15. Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton, established in 1854, is synonymous with luxury travel. Known for its gray Trianon canvas, the brand revolutionized luggage with flat-topped trunks. In 1896, the LV monogram was introduced, becoming an everlasting symbol of elegance.
Affluent travelers favored Louis Vuitton trunks and suitcases, and even today, they command extraordinary prices at auctions. The craftsmanship, attention to detail, and innovative designs set Louis Vuitton apart in the world of luxury luggage.
Collectors cherish these pieces for their historical significance and enduring style. Today, Louis Vuitton continues to be a beacon of sophistication and class.
