Beyond the carryon backpack with wheels, I think we got our kids their own suitcases when they were in HS. They had the wheeled backpack when they started ES. We have just had three communal suitcases (one bigger one and two roll carryon ones) and never took more than two at a time when we traveled as a family.

Anonymous wrote:We let her use the smallest suitcase from our set plus a backpack as carryon. It prevents tons of struggle. Anything that doesn’t fit goes in my suitcase/backpack. Age 4.

To answer your question though. I wouldn’t get suitcases for a holiday gift unless you are also planning a vacation in the near future or travel enough that it would be exciting for them.

We let her use the smallest suitcase from our set plus a backpack as carryon. It prevents tons of struggle. Anything that doesn’t fit goes in my suitcase/backpack. Age 4.

Their own backpack— from about 2 yo on. As far as suitcases, we pack light, especially when flying (eg, 2 carry on size suitcases (plus backpacks) for 2 kids & 2 adults in Europe for a week). With baggage fees especially, we want to take as few bags as possible.

I still make my 7 yr old share with us. I’m not messing around her her luggage in airports.

My kid was maybe 7 when he was able to manage a rollaboard and we could do carry-on only. Before that I would just use a larger suitcase and check luggage. At 10 he is pretty independent, although he needs a little prompting to be careful in crowds (although tbh so do many adults). And of course he can't put the stuff up in the bins.

He's had a little backpack for his own stuff (sweater, snacks, toys, books) since he was 3 or 4.

I would get the suitcases before the big tip as part of excitement building.
Giving it at Christmas would be kind of confusing and off topic.

My DCs have had a pottery barn wheelie backpack since they were 5 or so. Anytime we travel they put their books, toys, snack, blanket, etc in their backpack.

I have only 1, 3.5 yo. He has had is own suit case for 6 months. It has made life so.much.easier because now he doesn't insist on "helping" with the bigger suitcase. Worth it!

3 and 4... they each have a tiny rolling travelpro. Highly recommend and easier to keep everyone’s crap straight. Plus it will last forever.

I have pictures of my then three year old pulling her wheeled bag on all of our trips. When we travel, we always gave each kid a job or two. Kept them busy.

I pack all of my kids clothes into a big duffel. My son has a small Lightning McQueen suitcase for his stuff and my girls have their back packs.

I would and have.

My kids have flown all over the world with their own rolling bags and backpacks.

We started small ( small backpack for few toys or iPads etc). honestly they still travel with small carry on rollers.

Nothing wrong with building responsibilities. It taught them to take only what they think they will need.

Anonymous wrote:Why is it a horrible idea and waste of money? What do you do with their stuff now when you travel? My husband and I already share the big suitcase we have when we go somewhere, I use a carry on size for the kids. I guess it's not specifically a "kids" suitcase, if that's what you mean.

We do the same thing. I'm sure that one day they will want their own, but it won't be for a while. They are 3 and 4.

3-4 years old. Rolling carryon size they can pull or push around themselves most of the time. Bright but not too childish. Sometimes I borrow it when traveling just a night or two for work.