How We Test Travel Gear
Every product in the Travel Gear Lab is measured, flown and stress-tested before it earns a TRHQ Score. Nothing is ranked from spec sheets alone.
Our testing process
1. Sourcing
We buy gear at retail or borrow review samples. Samples are never conditional on a positive review, and no brand sees a review before publication.
2. Measuring
Every bag is measured empty and packed with a standard load, wheels and handles included, using the same digital caliper and scale.
3. Airline fit checks
Measured dimensions are compared against our airline baggage database and physically test-fit in standard sizer frames where possible.
4. Real-trip testing
Gear goes on actual flights and road trips for a minimum of one multi-day trip before scoring.
5. Stress testing
Zipper cycles, loaded drop tests, wheel roll distance over rough surfaces, and strap load checks.
6. Scoring & re-testing
Scores are assigned against the rubric below, then revisited when a model is revised or long-term issues appear.
The TRHQ 100-point score
Six weighted categories add up to a single comparable score.
| Category | Points | What we measure |
|---|---|---|
| Airline Fit | 25 | Measured external dimensions against 40+ airline carry-on and personal item limits, packed full — not empty. |
| Capacity & Organization | 20 | Usable liters, compartment layout, laptop protection, compression and how much fits on a real 5-day trip. |
| Build Quality & Durability | 20 | Fabric denier, zipper hardware, wheel and handle stress cycles, seam and strap load testing. |
| Convenience & Comfort | 15 | Carry comfort loaded, wheel roll quality, handle height, weight distribution, access speed. |
| Value | 10 | Performance relative to price, including how the bag compares to cheaper and pricier alternatives. |
| Warranty & Support | 10 | Warranty length and terms, repair programs, and documented real-world claim experiences. |
Independence and affiliate disclosure
Travel Review HQ earns commissions from qualifying purchases made through links on this site. Commissions never influence scores, rankings or verdicts, and no brand can pay for placement or a higher TRHQ Score.
When a product falls short, we say so — including telling you to buy a cheaper option or skip the category entirely. Scores are revisited when models change or long-term failures show up.
Questions about our methodology? See the Travel Gear Lab for tested picks, or reach us through the contact form on the home page.