Finding the perfect carry-on luggage can feel like a strategic mission. The right bag is more than just a container; it’s your travel partner, designed to navigate crowded airports, fit seamlessly into overhead bins, and keep your belongings secure and organized. With so many options on the market, from hard-shell spinners to lightweight softside cases, the choice depends on your personal travel style and needs.
Whether you prioritize maximum organization, sleek design, durable construction, or feather-light weight, there is an ideal carry-on for you. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting ten of the best carry-on luggages available. We’ve evaluated key features like capacity, wheel systems, and special compartments to help you find a reliable companion for your next journey.
The Best Carry-On Luggages for Your Next Trip
- TRAVELARIM 22 Inch Carry On Luggage
- LEVEL8 Grace Carry on Luggage Airline Approved
- Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage
- SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage
- LOVEVOOK Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved
- Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable 2 Wheel Carry-on
- Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage
- DELSEY PARIS Chatelet Hard+ Hardside Luggage
- Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage
- Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner
TRAVELARIM 22 Inch Carry On Luggage
This TRAVELARIM carry-on is designed for the organized traveler. Its dimensions of 22x14x9 inches are approved by most major airlines, giving you peace of mind at the gate. A unique feature is the included detachable cosmetic case, which has a zippered compartment and a mesh pocket to keep your toiletries and small valuables neatly stored and easily accessible.
The hard-shell suitcase is built for smooth travel with four 360-degree spinner wheels for effortless maneuvering. Inside, you will find large, zippered compartments to keep your clothing secure. For added security, it includes a built-in TSA lock, ensuring your belongings are protected during your travels.
LEVEL8 Grace Carry on Luggage
The LEVEL8 Grace carry-on combines strength with smart organization. It is constructed from a premium PC+ABS material with a micro-diamond textured shell, making it both lightweight and highly durable. The expandable design offers extra packing space when you need it, making the bag versatile for trips of varying lengths.
A standout feature is the dedicated front-access laptop compartment, which can securely hold devices up to 15.6 inches. This allows you to keep your electronics separate from your clothes and easily reachable for airport security checks. With its robust build and thoughtful design, this suitcase is a reliable choice for frequent travelers.
Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage
From the trusted brand Samsonite, the Omni PC carry-on is built for long-lasting performance. Its 20-inch spinner design meets most domestic carry-on size restrictions, helping you travel light and avoid checked bag fees. The hardside shell is scratch-resistant and designed to withstand the rigors of travel.
This luggage is not only functional but also backed by a strong warranty. It includes a 10-year limited warranty against defects, reflecting the brand’s confidence in its quality and durability. The smooth spinner wheels and expandable capacity provide excellent maneuverability and just a bit of extra packing room when necessary.
SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage
The SwissGear Sion offers the flexibility and classic look of a softside carry-on. Made from durable, scuff-resistant polyester, this bag is designed to handle the demands of travel while maintaining a professional appearance. It is an ideal size for short trips of one to three nights.
Four 360-degree spinner wheels allow for easy navigation through busy terminals. Inside, the fully lined interior features adjustable tie-down straps to keep your garments securely in place. Multiple handles on the top, side, and bottom offer convenient carrying options in any situation.
LOVEVOOK Carry On Luggage
Organization is at the forefront of the LOVEVOOK carry-on’s design. It features three front compartments for quick access to essentials like boarding passes, magazines, and a laptop. This helps streamline your journey through the airport, keeping important items within easy reach.
The interior is just as thoughtfully designed, with a dedicated waterproof wet bag for storing damp swimwear or toiletries. With a 45L capacity and dimensions that are approved by most major airlines, this softside suitcase offers a large, well-organized packing space without the worry of exceeding size limits.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry-on
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 is a standout for travelers seeking a lightweight and eco-friendly option. Weighing only 5.4 pounds, it is exceptionally light, making it easy to lift into overhead bins. The interior lining is even crafted from recycled plastics, adding a sustainable touch to your travels.
This softside rollaboard is built with durability in mind, featuring stain-resistant polyester with a water-repellent coating. It uses two inline skate wheels that provide a smooth roll, and the PowerScope Lite handle offers two height settings for comfortable control. It is designed to meet most international carry-on size limits.
Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage
While sized as a 24-inch checked bag, the Samsonite Winfield 2 is included for those who want the reliability of the Samsonite brand for their larger travel needs. Its spacious interior is perfect for longer trips, and the hardside shell offers excellent protection for your belongings.
Like the Omni model, the Winfield 2 is backed by a 10-year limited warranty. The four spinner wheels ensure easy transport through the airport, even when the bag is fully packed. Its robust construction and trusted brand name make it a solid choice for a primary checked suitcase.
DELSEY PARIS Chatelet Hard+ Hardside Luggage
The DELSEY PARIS Chatelet combines style and innovative features. Its 100% polycarbonate shell is both lightweight and strong, resistant to impacts that can crack or break lesser materials. The design is accentuated with stylish faux leather trim for a sophisticated look.
This luggage includes a unique brake system that locks two of the front wheels, preventing the bag from rolling away when you need it to stay put. For security, it features a recessed TSA-approved combination lock. The four spinner wheels provide a stable, smooth roll in any direction.
Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage
The Rockland Melbourne set provides excellent value, offering both a 20-inch carry-on and a 28-inch checked suitcase. The carry-on is built from a durable ABS material, creating a hard-shell case that is both lightweight and tough enough to protect your items.
Both pieces in the set feature four spinner wheels for easy mobility and an expandable design for those times when you need just a little more space. This two-piece set is a practical solution for travelers who need versatile luggage options for different types of trips.
Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner
The Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner is a fantastic option for travelers seeking reliable, no-fuss luggage. Its compact 21-inch size is designed to comply with most airline carry-on regulations, making it a convenient choice for avoiding checked baggage fees.
Constructed from a durable hard-shell material, this suitcase is built to withstand the bumps and scrapes of travel. It features four double-spinner wheels for smooth, 360-degree maneuverability and a telescoping handle for comfortable pulling. It represents a straightforward and effective carry-on solution.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Your Next Carry On
Picking the right carry on luggage feels like a big decision because, well, it is. This bag is your travel partner, and getting stuck with the wrong one can turn a smooth trip into a hassle. I’ve been through a few myself, and I’ve learned what really matters when you’re looking for the best carry on luggage for your needs.
First, let’s talk size. This is non-negotiable. Airlines are strict, and their rules vary. The standard international carry on size is around 21-22 inches tall, but some budget airlines have even smaller limits. I always check the specific requirements of the airlines I fly most often before buying anything. A collapsible water bottle is a great companion to save space once you’re through security.
Next up, weight. The bag itself has a weight, and that counts toward your limit. A heavy empty bag means you can pack less. I look for materials that are strong but light, like polycarbonate or certain nylons. Every pound the suitcase weighs is a pound of my stuff I can’t bring.
Then, consider the wheels. Four spinner wheels are a game-changer for navigating crowded airports. They let you push the bag alongside you with minimal effort. Two-wheeled models you have to pull behind you can be more durable and offer more packing space, but for ease of movement, I’m team four-wheel spinner all the way.
The handle is another small detail with a big impact. Make sure it telescopes smoothly and locks securely at multiple heights. A wobbly handle is annoying over a long walk to your gate. I also prefer a handle that has a comfortable rubberized grip.
Finally, think about the interior. A clamshell design that opens like a book is my favorite because it keeps my clothes organized and makes packing a breeze. Look for compression straps or panels to keep everything from shifting, and a separate zippered compartment for dirty laundry or shoes is a feature I now can’t live without. By focusing on these key areas—size, weight, wheels, handle, and interior—you’ll find a bag that works for you, not against you.
FAQ
What is the standard size for carry on luggage?
There isn’t one universal standard, which is the tricky part. Most major airlines in the US allow a bag that is around 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including the wheels and handles. However, many international and budget airlines have smaller limits, sometimes as strict as 18 x 14 x 8 inches. I always, always check my airline’s website before I pack to avoid any nasty gate-check fees.
Are hard-shell or soft-shell suitcases better?
This is a classic debate! Hard-shell suitcases, usually made from polycarbonate or ABS, are great for water resistance and protecting fragile items. They also often have a sleek, modern look. Soft-shell bags, typically made from nylon or polyester, are often more flexible and can be squeezed into a tight overhead bin. They might also have more external pockets for last-minute items. I lean towards hard-shell for its durability, but it really comes down to personal preference.
Is a two-wheel or four-wheel carry on better?
Four-wheel spinners are fantastic for maneuverability. You can push them effortlessly through airport terminals, and they glide sideways to fit in narrow aisles. Two-wheelers are generally more stable when fully packed and are often a bit lighter. They can also be more durable since there are fewer wheel mechanisms to break. For most people, the convenience of a four-wheeler is worth it, but if you’re rough on your gear, a two-wheeler might last longer.
What features should I prioritize for a long trip?
For longer trips, my packing strategy changes, and so do my bag priorities. I look for a bag with a really efficient interior organization system—compression straps are key to fitting more in. A lightweight construction is also critical because it gives me more weight allowance for my actual belongings. A durable, smooth-rolling wheel system is also a must, as I’ll be moving the bag around a lot more.
Can I bring a backpack and a carry on suitcase?
Usually, yes! Most airlines allow one carry on suitcase that goes in the overhead bin and one “personal item” that fits under the seat in front of you. A standard backpack, tote bag, or purse qualifies as the personal item. This is my go-to setup: my rolling suitcase up top and a backpack with my laptop, snacks, and a book at my feet. It’s the most efficient way to travel.