The 16 Best Kenneth Cole Luggage for Travelers in 2021 [Suitcases, Backpacks & More]
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If you want to make a real statement at the airport, what better way to do it than by brandishing a piece of designer luggage that looks much more expensive than it is and that has been designed to function perfectly in transit.
Inspired by the city streets of New York, most of the Kenneth Cole luggage pieces are named after local neighborhoods, and every item has been conceived with the needs of the urban traveler in mind.
Table of contents
- Why Buy Kenneth Cole?
- The Best Kenneth Cole Hardside Luggage
- Designer Good Looks and Impressive Construction
- Perfect for Stylish Travelers Who Demand More From Their Carry-On
- The Perfect Family-Sized Suitcase for Frequent Flyers
- Stunning on the Outside and Incredible Practical on the Inside
- Bright, Bold, and Brilliant — Comes Complete With a Fold-Out Suiter
- A Super-Sized Suitcase for Even Longer Adventures
- A Stylish Suitcase That Performs as Beautifully as It Looks
- The Best Kenneth Cole Softside Luggage
- The Best Kenneth Cole Backpacks
- The Best Kenneth Cole Travel Bags
- Final Thoughts
Table of Contents
- Why Buy Kenneth Cole?
- The Best Kenneth Cole Hardside Luggage
- Designer Good Looks and Impressive Construction
- Perfect for Stylish Travelers Who Demand More From Their Carry-On
- The Perfect Family-Sized Suitcase for Frequent Flyers
- Stunning on the Outside and Incredible Practical on the Inside
- Bright, Bold, and Brilliant — Comes Complete With a Fold-Out Suiter
- A Super-Sized Suitcase for Even Longer Adventures
- A Stylish Suitcase That Performs as Beautifully as It Looks
- The Best Kenneth Cole Softside Luggage
- The Best Kenneth Cole Backpacks
- The Best Kenneth Cole Travel Bags
- Final Thoughts
Why Buy Kenneth Cole?
Way back in 1982, a young designer named Kenneth Cole became frustrated when he discovered that he could not afford to show his wares during the market week at the Hilton New York.
So, full of determination to make his finely crafted shoe collection available to trendy buyers and fashionistas, he set up a truck and sought to bypass the city’s permit regulations that only granted utility companies and production companies permission.
Innovative and creative from the outset, he swiftly changed his company name to Kenneth Cole Productions, Inc. and applied for a permit to shoot a full-length motion picture entitled “The Birth of a Shoe Company.”
In just 2 and a half days, he and his “fake” production team sold forty thousand pairs of shoes and a legend in the world of fashion design was born. Over the years, Kenneth Cole Productions has branched out into ladieswear, menswear, bags, and accessories and, more recently, into the lucrative luggage market.
Offering a range of backpacks, duffels, hard-sided suitcases, messengers, and day bags, all of its pieces offer a heady brand of innovative style and incredible practicality, available at much more attractive prices than most of his fellow luggage designers would even dare to offer.
Bottom Line: Made from high-quality materials, and featuring his signature logo and minimalist aesthetic, Kenneth Cole luggage comes with a lifetime limited warranty.
The Best Kenneth Cole Hardside Luggage
Designer Good Looks and Impressive Construction
Kenneth Cole Reaction Gramercy
Dimensions: 30 x 20.5 x 11.25 inches
Weight: 9.8 pounds
Offering designer good looks, this stunning metallic silver suitcase is made of impressively dent-resistant PAP (a blend of PC and ABS materials), combined with molded corner reinforcements to offer the ultimate impact resistance. Also available in 20- and 24-inch versions, you can create your perfect travel set made up of carry-on cases and check-in-size luggage.
On the inside, this case has a superstrong, tear-resistant lining and a large main compartment that is divided via a zipper compartment to offer dual-sided packing. 1 side offers a side zipper pocket for smaller items and garment restraints to hold your belongings in place, while the lidded compartment features a mesh zipper pocket for keeping loose items secure in transit.
Offering a smooth ride across the terminal, the 4 spinner wheels allow for 360-degree rotation, while the locking, retractable handle, and padded grab handle make it easy to carry or pull your case alongside you.
What We Like
- Very lightweight and durable
What We Don’t Like
- Could do with some internal pockets for smaller items
Perfect for Stylish Travelers Who Demand More From Their Carry-On
Renegade 20-Inch Expandable Upright Carry-On
Dimensions: 22 x 16 x 12 inches
Weight: 7.65 pounds
As part of the highly sought-after Renegade collection, this carry-on case is made from strong and durable ABS materials while still being lightweight enough to handle with ease. Also available in a range of stunning metallic colorways as well as 24- and 28-inch options, the Renegade carry-on is the perfect accessory for stylish travelers on the go.
The fully-lined interior is spacious and well-designed, with multiple interior pockets to keep your smaller items safe.
There is a garment restraint panel for keeping your clothes neatly organized and wrinkle-free, as well as 2 elastic shoe pockets. With the capacity to expand and offer a further 2 inches of packing space, this suitcase will help you maximize your carry-on capacity for longer trips and weekends away.
4 molded corner guards help to protect the carry-on from the usual bumps and knocks of air travel, and the self-repairing coil zippers will keep your clothes safely tucked away for many years of adventures.
With smooth, multi-directional 8-wheel spinners that provide 360-degree rotation over any surface and a sturdy, locking, retractable telescopic handle, this case will glide with ease across the terminal.
What We Like
- Lots of internal storage pockets
What We Don’t Like
- Spinner wheels are not recessed
The Perfect Family-Sized Suitcase for Frequent Flyers
Out Of Bounds 28 Inch Checked Suitcase
Dimensions: 29.5 x 20.5 x 11.75 inches
Weight: 9.6 pounds
Perfect for frequent flyers who like to travel in style, this large suitcase is made from durable ABS materials that make it incredibly hard-wearing and easy to stack and stow. Available in a range of stunning metallic colorways, the Out of Bounds range is also available in 20- and 24-inch versions for those looking to create a matching designer luggage set.
With a clamshell construction, you can utilize both sides of the suitcase to hold your belongings. The U-shaped zip-around pocket helps to divide the interior into 2 usable spaces, and the zipper pockets keep your gear organized on the go. There are also elasticated garment straps to hold down your clothing to keep it wrinkle-free, even in transit.
Offering lockable zippers, you can use a standalone TSA lock with this case, and the 8 spinner wheels offer 360-degree rotations to ensure a smooth ride. With a telescopic, retractable handle that has been ergonomically designed for improved comfort, this is a great suitcase for long journeys and far-away adventures.
What We Like
- Molded corner guards for extra protection
What We Don’t Like
- No integrated TSA lock
Stunning on the Outside and Incredible Practical on the Inside
Scott’s Corner Hardside Expandable
Dimensions: 30 x 20.5 x 12 inches
Weight: 11.1 pounds
This stylish hardside suitcase is available in 4 metallic colors and also comes in 24- and 20-inch options. Made from a sleek and lightweight PET thermoplastic polymer, this case will protect your belongings in transit while also being easy to stack and stow.
Featuring a clamshell design with 2 good-sized interior compartments and a tear-resistant lining, this case is large enough to hold all of your travel essentials.
A large U-shaped zip-around pocket divides the case when necessary, and a mesh zippered pocket stores small or flat items. There are also elastic garment straps to hold your belongings in place on long flights and far-away travels.
With 360-degree spinner wheels that offer supersmooth maneuverability and an extendable and retractable handle, you can pull this case alongside you with ease.
What We Like
- Has an integrated TSA lock
What We Don’t Like
- Spinner wheels are not recessed for protection
Bright, Bold, and Brilliant — Comes Complete With a Fold-Out Suiter
Continuum Harside Spinner Suitcase
Dimensions: 22 x 15.25 x 11 inches
Weight: 7.2 pounds
With a hardshell exterior made from super-strong and durable ABS, this carry-on size suitcase features molded reinforcement at the corners for maximum impact resistance. Available in 4 stunning colors and also 28-inch options, this eye-catching suitcase is just right for über-cool adventurers.
With a beautifully lined interior, there is plenty of room to keep all your belongings. With the main compartment separated by a large U-shaped zipper pocket and 2 additional zipper pockets, you can easily organize your packing. This particular model also includes a fold-out suiter or garment restraint panel, making this an excellent choice for business trips.
The 8-wheel spinner system will glide effortlessly through the crowds, and the locking, retractable trolley handle makes it particularly easy to maneuver.
What We Like
- Expandable for an extra 2 inches of packing space
What We Don’t Like
- Exterior scratches easily
A Super-Sized Suitcase for Even Longer Adventures
Diamond Tower Luggage
Dimensions: 30 x 20.5 x 12 inches
Weight: 11 pounds
A large suitcase for super-sized adventures, this hardside suitcase expands to offer a further 2 inches of packing space all around. Made from durable ABS material and with a stunning diamond-textured exterior, this case is also available in a 20-inch carry-on option.
The roomy clamshell interior can be divided into 2 parts using the U-shaped zipper pocket, and the side zipper pocket and full-length mesh pocket make it easy to keep your smaller items safe. Garment straps will hold your gear in place on the go, and the tear-resistant lining adds a real feel of quality and sophistication.
For a smooth and quiet ride across the concourse, this case comes with spinner wheels that offer 360-degree movement, and the retractable trolley handle extends so you can effortlessly get where you’re going.
What We Like
- Stylish and durable exterior
What We Don’t Like
- No integrated TSA lock
A Stylish Suitcase That Performs as Beautifully as It Looks
Kenneth Cole Madison Square Hardside
Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
Weight: 6.5 pounds
This stylish carry-on suitcase offers a powerful mix of designer good looks and impressive practicality. This particular case also expands by a further 2 inches to offer extra storage space when needed. The Madison Square range is also available in a larger 28-inch hardside version to create a luxurious travel set.
The main compartment is large enough to hold everything you need for a weekend or quick trip away, and the side zipper pocket is perfect for keeping your smaller items safe and well-organized. There is also a garment panel with additional pockets to separate the case into 2 distinct storage areas and elastic tie-down straps to prevent your gear from moving around on the go.
Featuring 8-wheel 360-degree spinners, this carry-on can be wheeled through the airport with ease, and the flexible retractable handle and top and bottom grab handles make for supersmooth lifting and pulling along beside you.
What We Like
- Chic chevron exterior is stylish and protective
What We Don’t Like
- No external pockets for quick access
The Best Kenneth Cole Softside Luggage
A Smooth-Rolling, Upright Spinner Suitcase
Chelsea Luggage Chevron Softside
Dimensions: 27 x 15 L x 10 inches
Weight: 8.4 pounds
This lovely lightweight softside suitable is as sturdy as its ABS counterparts and has a polyester-twill chevron-quilted exterior. With a wide trolley handle and well-designed storage spaces, this luggage is also available in 20- and 28-inch options.
On the inside, the elastic tie-down straps in the large main compartment will keep your clothing all in 1 place during transit, while the large mesh zip pocket in the lidded compartment is perfect for storing smaller items. With 2 large zippered pockets on the outside of the suitcase, you can also be assured of easy access to your travel essentials as and when you need them.
This case can roll along beside you on the smooth and silent spinner wheels, while the retractable trolley handle is easily adjustable and makes it incredibly easy to maneuver through the terminal.
What We Like
- Exterior pockets for quick access to items
What We Don’t Like
- Zippers can be a bit fragile
An Expandable Suitcase for Those All-Important Extra Inches
Going Places 4-Wheel Checked Suitcase
Dimensions: 26.5 x 16 x 11 inches
Weight: 4.8 pounds
Made from superstrong 600D polyester, this lightweight yet durable expandable softside suitcase offers enough space to house your belongings for a long weekend or short trip away. Available in a choice of 3 different colorways and with additional 20- and 28-inch options, this is a practical choice for frequent flyers everywhere.
On the inside, the large main storage compartment is deep enough to hold all of your belongings, while the full-length side zipper pocket is useful for keeping your smaller items safe in transit. Elastic tie-down straps will hold your belongings in place during transit to ensure that they arrive well-organized and wrinkle-free.
The 2 large zipper pockets on the outside are designed to offer easy access to your most-used travel essentials, and this suitcase can also expand to offer a further 1.5 inches of storage space when you need it.
With 4 spinner wheels that glide seamlessly across any flat terrain and a retractable and adjustable handle, this suitcase offers sophisticated good looks and a practical storage solution for your next adventure.
What We Like
- Supersmooth spinner wheels
What We Don’t Like
- Can topple over if front heavy
The Best Kenneth Cole Backpacks
A Great Looking Laptop Backpack for Work and Travel
Colombian Leather Double Compartment 15.6″ Laptop
This gorgeous leather travel backpack offers designer looks and tons of practicality, with a dedicated laptop pocket and plenty of space for your day-to-day belongings. Perfect for trips away or the daily commute, this backpack is made from full-grain genuine Colombian leather.
On the inside, the padded laptop compartment is large enough to hold laptops up to 16 inches and has a separate tablet compartment. This laptop backpack has been designed with organization in mind and comes complete with 3 front zippered pockets, an RFID-blocking compartment, a side zippered pocket, and a mesh water bottle holder.
To help keep your backpack comfortable as you carry it, the padded shoulder straps are fully adjustable to find the right length to suit your height, and the handy trolley strap allows you to easily attach your backpack to a suitcase when traveling with more luggage.
What We Like
- Has a trolley sleeve for easy transportation
What We Don’t Like
- Little padding at the bottom of the laptop compartment
A Stunning Leather-Look Laptop Backpack Complete With RFID Technology
Pebbled Faux-Leather Laptop Backpack With RFID Protection
Dimensions: 12.5 x 7 x 16 inches
Weight: 2.5 pounds
This stunning faux leather laptop backpack is perfect for polished professionals, both at work and away. Designed to protect your belongings from theft and scammers, this great-looking piece of luggage comes complete with a tear-resistant lining with RFID-blocking technology.
The main compartment is incredibly spacious, and the padded laptop pocket can comfortably house devices with 15-inch screens. There is also a separate padded tablet pocket, as well as open-top accessory pockets. With a sleek, minimal design aesthetic, the front pocket has a flap-over cover for keeping your business essentials easy to reach.
Padded shoulder straps made from plush material sit comfortably on the shoulder and are easily adjustable to find just the right fit for every wearer. With a polyester lining and a wipe-clean coated PU exterior, this is a practical choice for everyday use.
What We Like
- RFID-blocking in the organizer pockets
What We Don’t Like
- Only a single zipper on the front compartment
Keep Connected on the Go With This Smart Little Laptop Backpack
ProTec Business 17″ Laptop Backpack
Dimensions: 17.2 x 13.1 x 9.5 inches
Weight: 3.1 pounds
With enough space to keep your laptop and devices safely stored in transit, it also offers a front compartment with a pass-thru USB cord for keeping your phone charged using your power bank.
On the inside, the padded laptop pocket can hold laptops with up to a 17-inch screen, while the tablet pocket is compatible with most tablet sizes. With further elastic mesh pockets and zippered pockets for easy organization, a front exterior pocket that features RFID-blocking technology helps prevent electronic theft.
With a padded back panel with an air mesh to help aid circulation against your back and plush, adjustable shoulder straps, this is the perfect backpack for longer commutes. There is also a padded top handle for easy grabbing and a trolley tunnel that fits most upright trolley handles for hands-free carrying when you need it most.
Made from tough 1680D polyester, this great-looking backpack is perfect for those who like to stay connected on the go.
What We Like
- Has a pass-through hole for a USB charging cable
What We Don’t Like
- No lockable zippers
A Tech-Friendly Travel Backpack
Chelsea Chevron Quilted 15-Inch Laptop Backpack
Dimensions: 16 x 10 x 7.5 inches
Weight: 2.1 pounds
Just right for city living, this stylish backpack has enough room to hold a 15-inch laptop, with a separate pocket that fits most tablets. Great for the daily commute and packed full of designer style and good looks, this little beauty accommodates all your business essentials for when you’re on the go.
The gold zippers and chevron-quilted polyester-twill exterior is beautiful to look at and is water-resistant, keeping your tech safe and sound even when battling the elements. With a good-size main compartment that features smaller organizational pockets and panels, as well as a handy front compartment for smaller items, this is a great backpack for work, school, or traveling.
Breathable and padded backpack straps are adjustable to your fit, and the easy-to-grab top handle means you can pick it up and set it down in an instant.
What We Like
- Lots of internal pockets to stay organized
What We Don’t Like
- Water bottle holders are quite small
The Best Kenneth Cole Travel Bags
A Supercool Belt Bag for Stylish City Dwellers
Faux Leather Waist Pack
Dimensions: 9.5 x 5.5 x 1.75 inches
Weight: 1.6 pounds
The waist bag is back, and this time it’s cooler than ever! This Kenneth Cole faux leather waist pack offers hyper-functional chic for the urban adventurer. Perfect for business, vacations, or festivals, it keeps all your essentials close to hand while still looking supercool.
Made from durable vegan leather material, the waist pack completes Kenneth Cole’s range of faux leather bags. With a flex-fit adjustable belt strap, this bag can be worn as a waist pack or as a crossbody bag.
For easy storage, there is a main compartment for larger items and a small external pocket for quick access to your money, passport, and other essentials.
What We Like
- Can be worn around the waist or across the body
What We Don’t Like
- No RFID-blocking compartments
A Stunningly Soft Leather Tote Bag With Enough Room for All of Your Essentials
Laptop & Tablet RFID Business Travel Tote
Dimensions: 16 x 12.75 x 4 inches
Weight: 2.25 pounds
A designer tote bag will never go out of style, and this one offers good looks and practical storage space by the bucketload. Made from beautifully soft leather, this structured tote bag is spacious on the inside and incredibly stylish on the outside.
Available in classic black leather and featuring 2 magnetic snap closure slip pockets, this bag is as beautiful as it is functional. The main compartment can accommodate a 15-inch laptop and a tablet, and the RFID-blocking pocket will keep you safe from identity theft on the move.
With 2 carry options, you can transport your bag using the 2 top carry handles or attach it to your suitcase using the trolley sleeve (that doubles up as another external pocket).
What We Like
- Has a padded laptop and tablet pocket
What We Don’t Like
- Handles are not height adjustable
Designer Looks and Practical Touches
Chelsea Chevron 15″ Laptop & Tablet Business Tote
Dimensions: 17 x 13 x 5 inches
Weight: 2.15 pounds
This stunning tote bag redefines fashion with practicality and offers designer touches. Made from polyester twill with chevron-quilted detail, this tote is perfect for the fashion-conscious traveler.
Offering the sturdy feel of a backpack but with cleverly crafted features of a practical tote bag, the main compartment can hold a 15-inch laptop and your day-to-day essentials. The long rectangular shape offers maximum storage, and the slim handles or padded shoulder strap allow you to choose how you carry this bag.
Like a backpack, this tote has a handy front compartment to keep your smaller items safely stashed away within easy reach, while the rear trolley sleeve saves you from carrying this tote separately from your suitcase.
What We Like
- Large front compartment to access your essentials
What We Don’t Like
- Not a huge amount of room in the main compartment when carrying a laptop
Final Thoughts
Offering innovative features, well-organized interiors, and stunning designer details, the Kenneth Cole luggage collection provides exceptional quality cases, bags, and backpacks at affordable prices.
Bright pops of color, textured exteriors, and incredibly maneuverable upright spinners — you are getting much more than just a designer label with Kenneth Cole.
