The Rise (and Fall?) of Smart Luggage: Is It Worth It in 2025?

Remember when smart luggage was going to revolutionize travel forever? Those sleek, tech-laden suitcases promised to charge our phones, weigh themselves, GPS-track their location, and practically walk themselves through airports. For a few years, it seemed like every travel influencer and tech enthusiast was singing their praises. Then came the airline bans, battery fires, and a wave of bankruptcies that left early adopters with expensive, unsupported bags.

Now, as we move through 2025, smart luggage occupies a strange middle ground in the travel world. Some features have been quietly absorbed into mainstream luggage design, while others have been abandoned entirely. So what happened to the smart luggage revolution, and more importantly, is any of it still worth your money?

Let's unpack the complete story of smart luggage—from its meteoric rise to its regulatory challenges—and help you decide whether high-tech travel gear deserves a place in your carry-on lineup.

The Golden Age: When Smart Luggage Ruled the Airport

The Promise of Smart Luggage

Between 2015 and 2017, smart luggage startups raised hundreds of millions in funding. Brands like Away, Raden, and Bluesmart captured imaginations with features that seemed straight out of a sci-fi movie:

• Built-in battery packs that could charge phones and tablets multiple times
• GPS tracking to locate lost bags anywhere in the world
• Digital scales integrated into handles
• Remote locking via smartphone apps
• Proximity alerts that warned you if your bag wandered too far
• USB charging ports for convenient device charging
• Companion apps that tracked your travel history and bag location

The pitch was compelling: Why carry separate chargers, scales, and trackers when your suitcase could do it all? For frequent travelers tired of dead phones and lost luggage, smart bags seemed like the obvious evolution of travel gear.

The Market Explosion

At their peak, smart luggage companies were valued in the hundreds of millions. Away reached a $1.4 billion valuation. Traditional luggage manufacturers scrambled to add smart features to their lines. Even high-end brands jumped on board, offering luxury versions with premium materials and tech integration.

The features that resonated most with travelers were practical ones:

• Battery packs that could fully charge a smartphone 4-5 times
• Real-time GPS tracking through cellular or Bluetooth connections
• Weight sensors that helped avoid overweight baggage fees
• TSA-approved locks integrated with smartphone controls

The Fall: When Everything Changed

The FAA Drops the Hammer

Then came January 15, 2018—a date that essentially killed the first generation of smart luggage. The FAA announced a ban on luggage with non-removable lithium-ion batteries in checked baggage, citing fire risks. Airlines quickly implemented even stricter policies, and suddenly, thousands of travelers owned bags they couldn't legally use.

The problem? Most early smart luggage had batteries permanently integrated into their design. Removing them wasn't just difficult—it often required tools and voided warranties. Some manufacturers claimed the batteries were "removable" when they clearly weren't meant to be removed by average users.

The Startup Graveyard

The regulatory shift devastated the industry:

• Raden shut down in 2018, leaving customers with unsupported products
• Bluesmart liquidated its assets the same year
• Modobag (the "rideable" smart suitcase) also closed
• Away faced intense scrutiny and pivoted away from emphasizing smart features
• Dozens of lesser-known brands disappeared overnight

Early adopters found themselves with expensive bags that airlines wouldn't accept, batteries that couldn't be serviced, and apps that no longer worked. It was a cautionary tale about jumping on tech trends too quickly.

What Survived: Smart Luggage in 2025

The New Rules of the Game

Smart luggage didn't die—it evolved. Modern smart bags must follow strict guidelines set by airlines and the FAA:

1. Batteries must be easily removable without tools in under 2 minutes
2. Battery capacity typically capped at 100Wh for carry-ons
3. Bags with non-removable batteries are banned in checked luggage entirely
4. Spare batteries must be carried in carry-on luggage only

These regulations forced manufacturers to rethink their approach entirely.

Features That Made the Cut

Today's "smart" luggage is more subtle but often more practical:

USB Charging Ports with Removable Batteries
Many modern bags include USB ports connected to easily removable battery packs. You can pop the battery out for checking the bag or when airlines get picky, then reinstall it in seconds. This has become the most common smart feature because it's genuinely useful and regulation-compliant.

Tracking via AirTags and Tiles
Instead of proprietary GPS systems, modern travelers simply drop an Apple AirTag or Tile tracker into their luggage. This approach is cheaper, more reliable, and doesn't require the luggage manufacturer to maintain tracking infrastructure. Many bags now include dedicated pockets or slots designed specifically for these trackers.

Durable Materials and Construction
Ironically, as tech features faded, manufacturers redirected investment toward better materials, wheels, and construction. Many travelers discovered they preferred a really well-made "dumb" bag to a mediocre "smart" one.

Smart Organization Features
Some modern carry-ons focus on "smart" design rather than technology—compression systems, modular compartments, and innovative packing solutions. The Solgaard Carry-On Closet Original - Large exemplifies this approach with its built-in shelf system that eliminates traditional packing, though at 57" × 37" × 24", note that these measurements refer to the shelf when extended—the bag itself is standard carry-on size.

Is Smart Luggage Worth It in 2025?

When Smart Features Make Sense

Smart luggage can be worth the investment if:

You're a frequent traveler who values convenience
If you take 10+ trips per year, integrated charging and tracking features save time and hassle. The premium you pay for smart features gets distributed across many trips, improving the value proposition.

You choose bags from established brands
Stick with companies that have proven staying power. Traditional luggage manufacturers like Travelpro, Samsonite, and Tumi are more likely to support their products long-term than startups burning through venture capital.

The "smart" features are secondary to core quality
Buy luggage that would still be excellent even if you never used the tech features. The bag should roll smoothly, protect your belongings, and fit airline requirements regardless of whether the USB port works.

You travel with lots of devices
Business travelers who carry laptops, tablets, phones, and other gear genuinely benefit from integrated charging. The ability to top up your phone while sitting at a gate without hunting for an outlet is legitimately valuable.

When to Skip the Tech

Smart luggage probably isn't worth it if:

You travel infrequently
For 1-2 trips per year, the premium cost of smart features doesn't justify itself. A quality standard bag plus a separate portable charger will serve you better and cost less.

You're on a tight budget
Smart features add $50-200 to bag costs. That money might be better spent on a higher-quality standard bag. The Sherpani Meridian 22" Carry-On at $170 or the CALPAK Hue Carry-On Luggage at $215 offer excellent value without tech gimmicks.

You primarily check your luggage
If you routinely check bags, integrated batteries become a hassle. You'll need to remove them before every flight, negating much of the convenience factor.

You prioritize weight and size
Smart components add weight and bulk. If you're trying to maximize space or minimize weight—especially for international travel with strict size restrictions—a traditional bag offers better specifications. The Eagle Creek Expanse 2-Wheel 21.5" International Carry-On Luggage weighs just 5.25 lbs, significantly lighter than most tech-equipped alternatives.

The Verdict: A Practical Approach to Smart Luggage

What Actually Matters in 2025

After the hype cycle, we've learned what travelers genuinely value:

1. Reliability Over Innovation
A bag that works perfectly for 10 years beats one with cool features that break or become obsolete in two. Focus on build quality, warranty, and manufacturer reputation first.

2. Removable Beats Integrated
For any tech features, removable is better than integrated. Removable batteries, detachable chargers, and pocket space for trackers give you flexibility as technology and regulations change.

3. Simplicity Has Value
Every additional feature is another potential failure point. Many experienced travelers now prefer simple, well-designed bags like the Bric's Life Tropea Spinner Carry On at 6.2 lbs and $390, which focuses on quality construction over tech.

4. Universal Solutions Work Better
Instead of proprietary tracking systems, use AirTags. Instead of integrated batteries, carry a high-quality portable charger. You can replace or upgrade these components independently without buying new luggage.

Smart Alternatives to Smart Luggage

You can achieve most "smart luggage" benefits without buying smart luggage:

For Tracking:

• Apple AirTag ($29) or Tile Pro ($35) in your bag's interior pocket
• Many bags now include dedicated tracker pockets

For Charging:

• Anker or RAVPower portable batteries (20,000mAh for $30-50)
• These are often cheaper and more powerful than integrated options

For Weight Management:

• Portable luggage scales ($10-25)
• Digital scales are more accurate than integrated handle sensors

For Organization:

• Packing cubes and compression bags
• The Travelpro Platinum® Elite International Carry-On Spinner offers excellent organization without tech at $292.39

The Hybrid Approach

If you're drawn to some smart features but wary of over-reliance on technology, look for bags that blend traditional quality with subtle tech integration. The Carl Friedrik The Carry-on Hybrid represents this philosophy—premium construction with thoughtful modern features at $595.

Consider bags from established manufacturers who've added smart features to proven designs rather than startups building around the technology. The Travelpro Platinum® Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner comes from a brand with decades of experience serving professional pilots and flight crews.

Expert Tips for Smart Luggage Buyers

Before You Buy

Check airline policies first
Visit our airlines guide to understand current regulations. Rules vary by carrier and route, particularly for international travel.

Measure carefully
Smart features shouldn't compromise fit. Use our size checker to ensure your bag meets requirements for all airlines you commonly fly. The difference between 21" and 23" height can mean the difference between carry-on and gate-check.

Read the fine print on batteries

• What's the actual capacity (measured in mAh or Wh)?
• How quickly can you remove it?
• Can you buy replacement batteries?
• What happens to the warranty if you use third-party batteries?

Research the company's track record

• How long have they been in business?
• Do they still support older models?
• What do customer service reviews say?
• Can you actually reach someone if there's a problem?

After You Buy

Test the battery removal immediately
Practice removing and reinstalling the battery at home. Time yourself—you should be able to do it in under 60 seconds. You'll likely need to do this at airport security or the gate.

Register your product
Register with the manufacturer immediately to ensure warranty coverage and receive updates about recalls or policy changes.

Keep receipts and documentation
Save proof of purchase and any documentation stating the battery is removable and compliant with regulations. Some gate agents aren't familiar with modern smart luggage rules.

Have a backup plan
Always travel with a portable charger as backup. Integrated batteries can die, break, or be prohibited on specific routes.

Looking Forward: The Future of Travel Luggage

Emerging Trends for 2025 and Beyond

Sustainable Materials
The next wave of luggage innovation focuses on sustainability over gadgets. Recycled materials, ocean plastics, and eco-friendly production methods are becoming selling points. The Samsonite Ecodiver Carry-On Wheeled Duffel at $259.99 represents this shift toward environmental consciousness.

Smart Design Over Smart Tech
Manufacturers are investing in thoughtful design features: better compression systems, more durable wheels, innovative handle designs, and superior organization. These "smart" improvements don't require batteries or apps.

Modular Systems
Interchangeable components let you customize your bag for different trip types. Some brands offer modular organization systems, swappable wheels, and adaptable interiors.

Improved Materials
Advanced polycarbonate blends, ballistic nylon, and aerospace-grade aluminum deliver better protection with less weight. The focus has shifted from adding features to perfecting fundamentals.

What's Actually Useful

The most valuable "innovations" in modern luggage aren't flashy:

• Wheels that glide smoothly and survive curbs
• Handles that don't wobble or stick
• Zippers that don't fail after 20 trips
• Materials that resist scuffs and tears
• Interiors that actually help you stay organized

Brands like Bric's exemplify this approach—the Bric's Life Spinner Compound Carry On at $760 costs more than many smart bags but delivers Italian craftsmanship and durability that outlasts tech gimmicks.

The Bottom Line: Making Your Decision

Smart luggage isn't inherently good or bad—it's about matching features to your actual travel needs. Here's a simple framework:

Choose smart luggage with removable batteries if:

• You fly 10+ times annually
• You regularly need to charge devices during travel
• You value convenience highly and don't mind paying for it
• You choose established brands with proven support
• The bag would still be excellent without the tech features

Choose traditional luggage if:

• You travel occasionally
• You're budget-conscious
• You want maximum durability and minimum complications
• You prefer carrying separate, replaceable accessories
• You prioritize weight and packing space

Compromise with:

• High-quality traditional bags with tracker pockets
• Premium construction from established brands like the Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On at $450
• Your own ecosystem of portable chargers and trackers
• Focus on design intelligence over technological integration

The smart luggage revolution didn't fail—it matured. The hype died down, regulations forced accountability, and the market corrected itself. What emerged is a more sensible approach: thoughtful integration of useful features into well-designed, durable bags.

In 2025, the smartest luggage might not be "smart" at all. It's luggage that's well-made, appropriately sized for airline requirements, and built to last through hundreds of trips. Whether that includes a USB port or not is entirely secondary.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Carry-On?

The best luggage for you depends on your specific travel style, budget, and needs. Before making a decision:

1. Check your measurements using our size checker to ensure compatibility with airlines you fly most often
2. Review airline policies on our airlines page to understand current rules and restrictions
3. Consider your priorities: Do you value tech convenience, maximum durability, lightweight design, or affordability?
4. Read real reviews from travelers with similar needs and travel patterns

Remember, the best carry-on is the one that reliably gets you and your belongings from point A to point B without drama. Sometimes the smartest choice is simply a really good bag that does one thing exceptionally well: holds your stuff.

Whether you opt for cutting-edge tech or time-tested simplicity, invest in quality that lasts. Your future self—rushing through airports, navigating cobblestone streets, and lifting your bag into overhead bins—will thank you.

Safe travels, and may your luggage always arrive when you do.