Suitcase Size?

I'm in the market for a suitcase. When I was forced to leave the UK and go back to the US, I only brought a small duffel bag and a backpack of stuff with me. Since I've been here for the last several months (nearly a year), I've gained a few more clothes and items like dishes/cooking pots, which are things my husband would like me to bring back with me when I return home.

I don't think I want (or need) a gigantic suitcase, but I'm not sure what the best size/brand would be. Once I get into London, I'll be taking the tube/trains out to Hertfordshire, so ideally something not so large that I'm worried how it'll fit through the little metal gates...

TL;DR
Does anyone have any suitcase recommendations?

How much do you want to spend and how long would you like it to last? Will you be traveling back to the US frequently and bring loads of stuff each time?

I went with a Consumer Reports suggestion back in the late 90s and bought top end Travelpro stuff. They are still in great shape today despite the many trips and abuse I have dished out by maxing out my weight allowance. (Back when you were allowed 70lbs!) I saved money by finding them on ebay. Although they were a bit pricey, I have saved money in the long run not having to replace something poorly made. I know Consumer Reports rates luggage on a regular basis, and it would be my starting point. If nothing else, it will tell you which ones NOT to buy.

The trains and tubes have gates for people with luggage so don't worry about that point too much.

As for size, I have a huge 26" that only goes transatlantic with me, a 24", a 20" carry on, and a floppy backpacky one for RyanAir. When I am not using the bigger cases, I store stuff in them. I'd say go as large as you think you can handle. You never know what you might need to haul home one day.

Good luck! 

I get so fed up with all the weight restrictions on luggage, so I recently bought some super-light cases. Not sure if that helps you, but it was my main consideration.

That's a really good point and I am guessing that the newer cases will be geared toward that. I am stuck with my heavier ones till they wear out. Which may be a while. 

How much do you want to spend and how long would you like it to last? Will you be traveling back to the US frequently and bring loads of stuff each time?

Those are really good questions I didn't even think about, haha. I only care about it lasting this once. I have other suitcases at home (in the UK), and I plan on never going back for very long, if at all. But if I did get forced back again, I do have a few good suitcases at home that have been on several international journeys with me.

Definitely looking for cheap (I'm broke) and light, but something that will hold up relatively well, since I am transporting breakables this time.

Chary: What brand did you get? Do you like them?

Chary: What brand did you get? Do you like them?

I knew you were going to ask that!    Sadly, the luggage is all up in the loft at the moment and I can't remember the make. I do know it was pretty cheap because I don't travel all that much. If you plan on traveling a lot, you might want to invest in something a bit pricier.


******

ETA: I remembered! It's this set.

If you only care about it lasting for one journey, the UPS has these heavy duty cardboard boxes that are about suitcase-sized with handles.  They are lighter than actual suitcases so you can pack more weight in them.

I used two of them when moving and they survived the journey no problem.  Be sure to tape them well though!

The UPS Luggage Box:

http://www.theupsstore.com/products/pages/pac.aspx

Definitely looking for cheap (I'm broke) and light, but something that will hold up relatively well, since I am transporting breakables this time.

I've purchased really inexpensive Samsonite lightweight cases at Marshalls on more than one occasion.

If you want to go really cheaply, you can buy plastic Rubbermaid containers and use them as checked baggage. I've also used a combination of smaller plastic containers in large nylon duffle bags and they've held up surprisingly well on transcontinental journeys.

I'm a fan of my 26" when going on long trips. 24" or less when on shorter jaunts.

If you want a bargain/few time use I'd check TJ Maxx, etc.

If you want it to last, go with Travel Pro. It's usually the brand the pilots and crews use. So you know it can survive. I got a 24" at Macy's a few years ago for an unbelievable deal (normally $300 down to $100). Keep an eye out for the sales, coupons, etc. 

definitely TJ Maxx or Marshall's worth a look.