Vintage-inspired travel accessories is making a big comeback — and who doesn’t want some chic old-world glamour in their modern journeys? From retro luggage to timeless accessories, these pieces offer just practicality while giving a nod to the elegance of the golden days of travel.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury trunk, a stylish hard-shell carry-on or a chic passport case, these vintage-inspired designs help make trips feel like a first-class experience.
Let’s dive into some of the best options that blend nostalgic charm with modern innovation.
Best vintage carry-on luggage
I loved checking out the Carl Friedrik Carry-On X earlier this year. It combines modern functionality with vintage-inspired aesthetics. Its sleek polycarbonate shell and Vachetta leather accents provide both sophistication and durability. With a quick-access laptop pocket, TSA-approved locks, and silent spinner wheels, it offers travelers style and practicality.
I tested out the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus earlier this year and love how it's made from recycled materials like polycarbonate and aluminum. As the world’s first carbon-neutral carry-on, it offsets production and shipping emissions. Its sleek design, spacious interior and easy-access pockets offer both style and comfort.
Looking for something a bit more budget-friendly? The Rockland Stage Coach 20-Inch Rolling Trunk blends vintage charm with modern practicality. Its spacious interior, smooth-rolling wheels and sturdy handles make it ideal for weekend getaways or stylish home storage. It adds character to any travel adventure.
The World Traveler Gatsby Vintage Style Carry-On is made from polycarbonate with vegan leather trim and features 360-degree spinner wheels with a TSA-approved lock. With a stylish retro design and an upscale interior including a vanity mirror, this bag is all about style and vintage charm.
The Sterling Pacific 40L Cabin Case is a stunning luxury aluminum carry-on with a vintage design, reinforced edges and spring-loaded latches. It's all about durability and style. While its $2,150 price tag isn't for everyone, it comes with a lifetime warranty and is one of the best options for those seeking high-end, long-lasting luggage.
The Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Hardside Luggage brings vintage elegance and modern functionality together with its textured polycarbonate shell, vegan leather accents and smooth double spinner wheels. With antimicrobial lining, a TSA-approved lock and spacious compartments, it offers both style and practicality for the chic traveler.
Another bag that offers vintage charm and modern innovation, the Luggex All Aluminum Carry-On is made from a durable aluminum-magnesium alloy and features a built-in USB port for on-the-go charging. Its sleek design, TSA lock and multiple pockets offer both style and practicality for the sophisticated traveler.
Best vintage checked luggage
The Carl Friedrik Trunk is a premium, trunk-style checked bag with a durable aluminum frame, polycarbonate shell and leather accents. Its 90-liter capacity, removable dividers and included packing cubes make it ideal for long trips, though it comes with a hefty $745 price tag.
The Paravel Aviator Grand blends vintage elegance with modern sustainability by being made from 100% recycled polycarbonate. Like it's carry-on younger sibling, it's also carbon-neutral. Its stylish design features integrated locks, double spinner wheels and a removable laundry bag are all big wins in our book.
The Urecity Vintage Suitcase Set offers Victorian elegance and modern durability with faux leather, a sturdy aluminum frame and lightweight construction. With spinner wheels and magnetic straps, it all about delivering style and practicality for travelers.
Best vintage-inspired travel accessories and bags
The Paravel Cabana Passport Case has a sleek, bygone design with modern functionality. We love how it's crafted from durable recycled materials in a chic striped pattern. It protects your passport while offering slots for cards and boarding passes. Who doesn't want style and organization in your travel essentials?
The Paravel Cabana See-All Vanity Case also has a vibrant striped design and spacious interior. Its clear top allows easy access to beauty essentials. It's a great stylish and functional travel accessory.
The Mark and Graham Medium Travel Jewelry Case is made from vegan leather and is lined with soft linen to keep your jewelry organized and tangle-free. With compartments for rings, earrings and necklaces, plus an option for monogram personalization, it's a chic and practical accessory for stylish travelers.
If you ask me, the Ettinger New Pursuits Cotswold Weekend Bag has some of the best, British craftsmanship money can buy with ample space for essentials in a luxurious leather silhouette. It’s a stylish, durable statement piece that adds elegance to any weekend getaway.
Senior editor Andrew Kunesh loves his Carl Friedrik 72-Hour Backpack. It has the functionality of a suitcase and backpack with compartments for a laptop and travel essentials. Made from premium recycled nylon with leather accents, it's perfect for short getaways, though its high price may warrant comparing other options.
Bottom line
The resurgence of vintage-inspired travel accessories reflects a growing desire for elegance and nostalgia in modern journeys. Whether you’re drawn to the luxurious feel of a trunk-style checked bag or the sleek sophistication of a retro-styled carry-on, these pieces bring together timeless charm with modern functionality.