Where to Buy Cheap Luggage in London
Why You Should Shop Smart for Luggage in London
Luggage is more than just a container for your belongings; it's a travel companion. A good piece of luggage can make the difference between a stressful and seamless journey. While high-end designer luggage may come with eye-watering price tags, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a reliable suitcase or backpack. London, with its vast array of shopping districts, offers a wide range of options for those looking to save.
The Best Places to Buy Cheap Luggage in London
Primark Location: Oxford Street, Tottenham Court Road, and various locations.
Why it’s great: Known for its super affordable prices on clothes, Primark also offers a decent selection of cheap luggage. It may not be the most durable brand, but for short trips or as an extra suitcase for last-minute purchases, it’s perfect.
Price Range: £10-£40
What to Expect: Basic suitcases, travel bags, and cabin-friendly options. Expect simple designs and no-frills features. It’s ideal for budget-conscious shoppers or those in need of a temporary solution.
Best for: Travelers on a budget or those who want an extra bag without spending too much.
TK Maxx Location: Multiple stores around London, including Covent Garden, Kensington, and Westfield Shopping Centre.
Why it’s great: TK Maxx is renowned for its discounted designer goods, and luggage is no exception. You can find high-quality brands like Samsonite, American Tourister, and Delsey at significantly reduced prices.
Price Range: £30-£150
What to Expect: A wide variety of luggage styles from carry-on bags to larger suitcases. This is a great option if you're looking for something durable but don't want to pay full price.
Best for: Shoppers looking for a bargain on premium luggage brands.
Argos Location: Various stores, including Tottenham Court Road, Whitechapel, and Camden.
Why it’s great: Known for its catalog shopping, Argos has a solid selection of affordable luggage. The store offers a range of suitcases, travel bags, and cabin-approved luggage. You can check online and pick up your order in-store, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Price Range: £15-£80
What to Expect: Mid-range, durable options. Argos frequently offers sales and clearance deals, making it possible to grab even bigger bargains.
Best for: Shoppers looking for convenience and decent quality at affordable prices.
Markets Location: Camden Market, Spitalfields Market, and Portobello Road Market.
Why it’s great: London’s markets are famous for their eclectic mix of goods, and luggage is no exception. While you're wandering through stalls of vintage clothes, antiques, and street food, you can also find cheap luggage at these markets. Camden Market in particular is known for its alternative and quirky styles, while Spitalfields has more variety in terms of brands.
Price Range: £20-£70
What to Expect: You may have to dig a little, but the markets often have good deals on luggage. These can be brand-new or slightly used, but you can haggle to get a better price.
Best for: Adventurous shoppers who enjoy the thrill of the hunt and are comfortable with negotiating.
Sports Direct Location: Oxford Street, King’s Cross, and other locations.
Why it’s great: Sports Direct is often thought of as a place to buy gym clothes and sports gear, but it also has a surprisingly good selection of cheap luggage. You can find large duffel bags, backpacks, and wheeled suitcases that are perfect for travel.
Price Range: £15-£60
What to Expect: Affordable, no-nonsense options. While not luxurious, the luggage sold at Sports Direct is functional and durable enough for budget travelers.
Best for: Backpackers or those who need lightweight, affordable travel gear.
Decathlon Location: Surrey Quays, Canary Wharf, and various locations.
Why it’s great: Decathlon is the go-to store for anyone who loves outdoor adventures, but did you know they also sell excellent travel luggage? Their bags are affordable, durable, and perfect for active travelers.
Price Range: £20-£100
What to Expect: A focus on functionality, with a wide range of backpacks, duffel bags, and wheeled luggage. Ideal for those planning camping trips or adventure travel.
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts and travelers looking for sturdy luggage that can handle rough conditions.
Charity Shops Location: Various, including Notting Hill, Covent Garden, and Chelsea.
Why it’s great: Charity shops like Oxfam, British Heart Foundation, and Cancer Research UK often have second-hand luggage at very low prices. Not only can you score a good deal, but you're also supporting a good cause.
Price Range: £5-£30
What to Expect: Used luggage in varying conditions. It's hit or miss, but sometimes you can find high-quality brands for a fraction of the price.
Best for: Eco-conscious shoppers who don’t mind buying second-hand to save money and help a charity.
Lidl & Aldi Location: Various, including Brixton, Whitechapel, and Camden.
Why it’s great: These budget supermarkets are known for their weekly special offers, and luggage occasionally makes the cut. While they don’t stock luggage year-round, when they do, it’s incredibly affordable.
Price Range: £15-£40
What to Expect: Basic but functional luggage. If you see something you like, snap it up fast, as these items tend to sell out quickly.
Best for: Bargain hunters who are flexible with their timing.
What to Consider When Buying Cheap Luggage
Material: When you're shopping for cheap luggage, the material is key. Hard-shell suitcases are often more durable, but they can also be heavier. Soft-sided luggage tends to be more affordable, lighter, and easier to fit into tight spaces. However, it may not protect fragile items as well.
Weight: Airlines are strict with weight limits, so consider how much your empty suitcase weighs before purchasing. Lightweight options are ideal, especially if you plan on shopping or packing heavy.
Size: Are you looking for a carry-on or a large suitcase? Always check the airline's dimensions for cabin baggage if you plan to travel with it. For larger luggage, make sure it has expandable features for maximum packing efficiency.
Wheels: Spinner wheels are ideal for navigating airports and busy city streets, but they can be more prone to breaking on cheaper models. Test the wheels before buying to ensure they're sturdy.
Price vs. Durability: While you can find ultra-cheap luggage, it’s worth considering whether the savings are worth it. If you plan to use the luggage frequently, it may be better to invest in something a bit more durable.
Pro Tips for Scoring Even Better Deals
- Shop during sales: Major shopping holidays like Black Friday, Boxing Day, and seasonal sales offer deep discounts on luggage across London.
- Check online: Sometimes online stores like Amazon, eBay, and Gumtree offer better deals than physical stores, especially on lightly used or clearance items.
- Sign up for newsletters: Many stores, including TK Maxx and Argos, offer exclusive discounts to newsletter subscribers. It’s a good way to stay updated on special deals.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone who simply needs a new suitcase for the occasional trip, London offers plenty of affordable luggage options. From high-street retailers like Primark to hidden gems in charity shops, finding cheap luggage in London is easier than you might think. Just keep in mind what you need most—durability, size, or style—and you’ll be set for your next adventure.
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