LARVENDER 5 Piece Softside Luggage Set Expandable Review: A Traveler’s Honest Verdict

There’s a unique kind of stress that comes with staring at an empty suitcase before a big trip. The question isn’t just “what to pack,” but “what to pack it *in*.” We’ve all been there: borrowing a mismatched bag from a friend, trying to cram a week’s worth of clothes into a tiny carry-on, or realizing the family needs more than just one checked bag. The dream is a coordinated, versatile set that covers every possibility, from a weekend road trip to a long-haul international flight. That’s exactly the problem the LARVENDER 5 Piece Softside Luggage Set Expandable aims to solve, offering a complete travel system in a single purchase.

LARVENDER Luggage Sets 5 Piece Softside Expandable Suitcases Set with Spinner Wheels TSA Lock,...
  • Expandable Softside Luggage Sets: 5 piece set includes 20" carry on suitcase, a 24" checked medium luggage, a 28" checked large luggage, a travel duffel...
  • Premium Suitcase Set: Soft shell luggage is crafted from premium quilted lightweight and durable 1680D polyester fabric exterior which resists stains and...

What to Consider Before Buying a Luggage Set

A comprehensive luggage set like this one is ideal for families, students studying abroad, or anyone looking to upgrade from a collection of mismatched bags to a single, cohesive system. The primary appeal is value and versatility. Before you invest, consider what you truly need. Are you a frequent flyer who needs uncompromising durability to withstand the rigors of baggage handling? Or are you an occasional vacationer who values organization, flexibility, and a coordinated look? Key factors to weigh include material (softside for flexibility, hardside for protection), wheel quality (360° spinners are non-negotiable for maneuverability), handle sturdiness, and overall build quality, especially zippers and locks. The LARVENDER 5 Piece Softside Luggage Set Expandable is designed for the traveler who wants a complete, ready-to-go solution without a hefty price tag, offering softside flexibility and a full range of sizes for any trip. If that sounds like you, this all-in-one set might be the perfect fit for your travel needs.

While the LARVENDER 5 Piece Softside Luggage Set Expandable is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Bestseller No. 1
Amazon Basics 3-Piece Set (21", 26", 30"), Hardshell Suitcases With Wheels, Expandable For Up to 25%...
  • ALL-IN-ONE SET: Includes carry-on, medium checked, and large checked suitcase to suit every travel need; carry-on measures 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 inches; medium...
Bestseller No. 2
Cosbarn Luggage Sets 5 Piece Suitcases with Wheels, Suitcase Set ABS Hard Case Luggage with TSA Lock...
  • 【5 Piece Luggage Set】Luggage sets include a 28-inch large suitcase, 24-inch medium checked luggage, 20-inch carry on luggage, an extended duffel bag,...
Bestseller No. 3
Bobcat Excavator 3-Piece Expandable Hardside Spinner Luggage Set with TSA Lock (Black)
  • Sleek Durability: Crafted with a high-performance polypropylene shell and sandy-smooth texture for superior impact resistance and long-lasting protection.

First Impressions and Key Features

Upon unboxing the LARVENDER 5 Piece Softside Luggage Set Expandable, the first thing we noticed was how cleverly everything nests together. The 20″ carry-on, duffel bag, and toiletry kit fit perfectly inside the 24″ case, which in turn fits inside the 28″ suitcase. This is a huge space-saver for storage. The Navy Blue color is deep and professional, and the quilted 1680D polyester fabric feels substantial and resistant to scuffs. The set truly is comprehensive, providing a piece for every conceivable packing scenario. We did notice a distinct chemical smell right out of the box, a point echoed by several other users. Our advice is to let the pieces air out for a few days before your first trip. The overall aesthetic is classic and functional, with two large exterior pockets on each suitcase for easy access to travel documents or last-minute items.

What We Like

  • Complete 5-Piece System: Incredible value, providing a suitcase for every trip length, plus matching duffel and toiletry bags.
  • Excellent Storage: The entire set nests into the largest suitcase, making it remarkably compact for storage.
  • Flexible Packing: The softside design and expansion feature on larger pieces add 25% more packing space.
  • Good Looks: The quilted polyester and classic Navy Blue color give the set a premium appearance.

What We Didn’t Like

  • Questionable Durability: Widespread reports of weak zippers and wobbly telescopic handles raise long-term concerns.
  • Stability Issues: The suitcases have a tendency to become front-heavy and tip over when packed.
  • Strong Initial Odor: A significant chemical smell requires airing out before first use.

A Deep Dive into the LARVENDER 5 Piece Softside Luggage Set’s Performance

A luggage set can look great out of the box, but its true test is in the terminals, baggage carousels, and hotel lobbies of the world. We put the LARVENDER 5 Piece Softside Luggage Set Expandable through its paces to see how it holds up under the pressures of real-world travel.

Design and Material Quality

The set is constructed from a premium quilted 1680D polyester fabric, a dense material known for being lightweight yet resistant to stains and abrasions. In our hands-on testing, it felt durable enough for typical vacation use. The anti-wear edges are a thoughtful touch designed to protect the corners from bumps and scrapes. However, we share the concerns of some users regarding its ability to withstand aggressive baggage handling. One user noted their large bag was damaged after a single flight. While the soft shell offers flexibility, it may not provide the same rigid protection as a hardside case for fragile items.

Capacity and Organization

This is where the LARVENDER set truly shines. With a 20″ carry-on, 24″ medium checked bag, 28″ large checked bag, a travel duffel, and a toiletry bag, you’re covered for any scenario. We found the expansion zipper on the 24″ and 28″ suitcases invaluable, easily adding that crucial 25% more space for souvenirs on the trip home. The two large exterior pockets are perfect for stashing a book, tablet, or jacket. Inside, the full zipper dividers and compression straps do a decent job of keeping things organized and secure. This level of organization and versatility in one package makes the LARVENDER 5 Piece Softside Luggage Set Expandable a fantastic option for families.

Maneuverability and Handling

Effortless maneuverability is promised, but our experience was mixed. The 360° spinner wheels glide smoothly on polished airport floors when the bags are empty or lightly packed. However, we immediately noticed what other travelers have flagged as a major issue: the telescopic handles. Even on the carry-on, the handle felt wobbly and lacked the sturdy, locked-in feel of premium brands. One user described it perfectly, stating the handle was “lanky” and that “it just did not seem sturdy at all” when the bag was fully packed. Furthermore, we confirmed that the suitcases are front-heavy. If you utilize the front pockets, the bags have a strong tendency to tip forward, which can be incredibly frustrating when navigating a busy terminal.

Security and Zippers

The inclusion of TSA-approved combination locks on the three main suitcases is a definite plus, adding a layer of security and peace of mind. The zippers themselves, however, are the set’s most significant weakness. During our evaluation, we noted they didn’t feel as robust as we’d like. This observation was heavily corroborated by user experiences. Multiple buyers reported zipper pulls breaking off on the very first trip, and in some cases, the main zipper track failing entirely, rendering the bag useless. This appears to be a consistent quality control issue and is the most critical drawback of an otherwise appealing set.

What Other Users Are Saying

Feedback from other travelers paints a very clear picture of the LARVENDER 5 Piece Softside Luggage Set Expandable. Many users, like us, were initially impressed by the value, the attractive design, and the comprehensive nature of the five-piece set. One happy customer said, “It’s pretty good quality and I love the matching weekend bag and toiletry bag. I’m really happy I bought this luggage set!”

However, the recurring themes of questionable durability cannot be ignored. The most common complaints center on the wobbly handles and fragile zippers. As one user detailed, “She just used the smallest suitcase for a trip for the first time and the upper outside zipper broke right off.” Another noted, “The handle was lanky, and it was difficult to roll… The suitcase also constantly tipped over.” These real-world experiences confirm our findings that while the set is a great value, its long-term reliability may be a concern for frequent travelers.

Alternatives to the LARVENDER 5 Piece Softside Luggage Set Expandable

If durability is your absolute top priority and you’re willing to invest more, there are several hardside alternatives worth considering. These sets typically offer fewer pieces but may provide superior protection and longevity.

1. American Tourister Westridge 3-Piece Hardshell Luggage Set Expandable

American Tourister Westridge Hardshell Luggage Set - 3 Piece Set - 20" Carry-On, 24” & 28”...
  • Complete Travel Solution - The American Tourister Westridge hard-sided luggage 3-piece set features a 20” hardshell carry-on, 24” medium luggage, and...
  • Durable & Lightweight - This lightweight luggage set has a durable ABS hard case that is scratch-resistant so your suitcases will continue to look good...

This set from American Tourister offers the rugged protection of a hardshell exterior. While it’s a 3-piece set compared to LARVENDER’s 5 pieces, you’re investing in a brand known for durability. It’s a fantastic choice for those who prioritize toughness over the extra bags and softside flexibility of the LARVENDER set.

2. Samsonite Evolve SE 2PC Expandable Luggage Set

Samsonite Evolve SE Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, 2PC SET (CO/M), Army Green
  • SET INCLUDES 20" Carry On (meets carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light) and 24" Spinner (maximize your...
  • Industry leading expanded capacity in all sizes.

Samsonite is a benchmark for quality in the luggage world. This 2-piece hardside set is for the serious traveler who needs a reliable carry-on and a medium checked bag. The build quality, wheels, and handles will be a significant step up in robustness, though you sacrifice the sheer number of pieces and value offered by the LARVENDER set.

3. Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Luggage Set Expandable

Sale
Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Luggage Set - Carry-On & Large Checked Luggage with Dual Spinner Wheels -...
  • Durable & Stylish: This 2-piece luggage set features a scratch-resistant Polypropylene hardshell. Includes carry-on (meets carry-on size restrictions for...
  • Spacious & Organized: The interior offers generous packing capacity, complete with elastic straps, a divider, and a pouch to keep your belongings secure...

The Samsonite Freeform is known for its incredibly lightweight yet strong polypropylene construction. This 2-piece set is modern, stylish, and built to last. It’s an excellent alternative for travelers who want premium performance and are willing to forgo the extra duffel and toiletry bags for superior build quality.

Our Final Verdict

So, should you buy the LARVENDER 5 Piece Softside Luggage Set Expandable? Our verdict is a conditional yes. If you are a family on a budget, an infrequent traveler, or someone who needs a complete, matching set for a specific upcoming trip, this collection offers undeniable value. The number of pieces, the smart nesting storage, and the flexible packing space are major advantages. However, you must be prepared for its potential shortcomings. The wobbly handles, tendency to tip, and, most importantly, the fragile zippers are significant risks. For frequent flyers or travelers who demand rock-solid reliability, we recommend investing more in one of the hardside alternatives mentioned above.

If you’ve decided the LARVENDER 5 Piece Softside Luggage Set Expandable is the right fit for your travel style and budget, you can check its current price and purchase it here.

Last update on 2025-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API