1 week trip luggage size

The Ultimate Guide to Luggage Sizes: What Size Should You Get?

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Did you know that choosing a suitcase (or multiple cases, for that matter) in the right size can save you some money in luggage fees and help you become a more organized traveler?

On one end, unused space in your luggage will result in wrinkled clothes and a messy suitcase. Not to mention the extra weight and possible luggage fees. And on the other – having too little space will limit your packing capacity. That’s why nailing the correct luggage size is very, very important.

In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about all the different luggage sizes, restrictions, and more, so you can understand what size luggage is better for you. Make sure to check out our FAQ section at the bottom if you still have any questions!

Luggage Size Chart

But before we begin this article, down below you can check out our infographic and table with the most common luggage sizes, which will offer an easier way to grasp the differences between them.

Measuring Luggage

Basically, each airline has different size and weight restrictions for hand and checked luggage. Usually, premium airlines will allow slightly larger bags, and cheaper ones will allow smaller ones with tighter weight limits. Your job as the passenger is to find out the restrictions yourself because they change all the time, and it would be impossible for us to list and update each airline individually.

There are two types of size restrictions that you need to know. The first one is dimensions – height (top to bottom), width (side to side), and depth (front to back). It will usually be applied for personal items and carry-ons and could be stated as follows: 55 x 35 x 25 cm (22 x 14 x 9 inches). Airlines will usually offer measuring boxes inside airports, where you can put in your bags to check if they fit.

The second measurement is linear inches. Linear inches just means the total sum of height, width, and depth, and it’s mainly used for checked luggage, which needs to be under 62 linear inches. So to get linear inches, measure the height, width and depth individually and add them all up.

To measure the dimensions of your suitcase, you can place it next to a wall and measure the height, width, and depth by placing a measuring tape next to the wall. To get a more exact measurement, you can place a book or something flat on the other end of the measuring tape. Make sure to include the wheels, handles, and anything else that’s sticking out! Another thing to keep in mind is that fabric suitcases might become a bit larger once they’re packed to the brim, so before measuring, pack your suitcase full and measure in the widest end.

Hand Luggage

Hand luggage means all the bags that you’re allowed to take with you on the plane without checking them in. Usually, it’s a carry-on, a personal item, and any other items that aren’t counted towards the allowance, such as duty-free items .

Hand luggage has to be stored under each passenger’s front seat or in the overhead compartments, which are located above each seat. You won’t be able to access it during take-off and landing because they have to be tucked away securely in case of an emergency.

When you arrive at the airport, you won’t need to go to the check-in desks if you have just hand luggage, and you’ve already printed your tickets back home. You’ll be able to go straight to security , where TSA (Transport Security Agency) will screen your hand luggage for any prohibited items. After that, you’re free to do duty-free shopping or wait at the designated gate until boarding starts.

Carry-on Luggage vs Personal Items

The main difference between carry-on luggage and personal items (other called “underseat luggage”) is that carry-ons need to be stored in the slightly-larger overhead compartments and personal items under each passenger’s front seat. Usually, most people choose smaller rolling suitcases as their carry-ons and backpacks, duffels, or tote bags as their personal items. That said, you can use any type of bag as a carry-on or a personal item, whether it’s a briefcase, rolling suitcase, duffel bag , backpack, tote, or even a regular shopping bag.

You won’t really be able to access stuff from your carry-on during the first and last 15-30 minutes of the flight, as well as any turbulence, so pack your most necessary items in your personal item, such as your laptop , headphones, e-reader , any medicine, e.t.c.

Personal Item Size and Weight Requirements

Most airlines won’t specifically mention an exact size requirement for personal items, and instead, they’ll just say that it has to fit under the front seat. On average though, it should be 6-9 inches in width, 10-14 inches in height, and 17-18.5 inches in length . They avoid stating the exact measurements because each airline has different types of aircraft in their fleet and each aircraft has a different amount of space under each seat. To get the exact personal item size requirements, you should probably ask the airline directly, or check our list where we compiled personal item restrictions for most popular airlines .

Some airlines also have individual weight restrictions for personal items. But most of them just have some kind of weight limit for the total weight of your personal item and carry-on.

Tip: Looking to purchase a personal item? Check out the Matein Travel laptop backpack , which I’ve used as my personal item on multiple flights without any issues. It always fits under the front seat and it’s surprisingly spacious.

Carry-on Size and Weight Requirements

On average, carry-ons usually have to be 8-10 inches in width, 13-15  inches in height, and 19-23 inches in length. Each airline has different carry-on size requirements, however, the most popular one is 22 x 14 x 9 inches . The restrictions are so different between airlines because the overhead compartments tend to differ in capacity across different aircraft.

In terms of weight, each airline has different weight requirements for carry-on luggage. Most airlines in America don’t have any weight requirements for hand luggage but some do, especially budget airlines. If the airline has a carry-on weight limit, it’s usually between 15-35 lbs (7-16 kg) . Some airlines will also have a specific weight limit for the total weight of carry-ons and personal items.

Tip: Looking for a new carry-on? I’ve used the Travelpro Maxlite 5 19-inch fabric carry-on for a while now and I love it. It’s spacious, lightweight, and very durable. Even though it’s slightly over the limit in width, I’ve never had any issues with that on international flights.

Domestic Carry-Ons vs International Carry-Ons

When you’ll be shopping for a new carry-on, you’ll notice that some of them will be marked as “international carry-on” and some as “domestic carry-on.” That’s because carry-on size restrictions are usually stricter for international flights and looser for domestic ones. If you’re flying domestically, you might get away with a 23-inch (longest side) carry-on, but on an international flight, you’ll probably be limited to 19-21 inches.

So essentially, domestic carry-ons will be slightly larger than international ones. If the carry-on is too large , you will be asked to check it in, and you’ll have to pay additional fees. That’s why it’s important to buy a smaller carry-on if you’re planning on flying internationally. Usually, international carry-ons will have to be under 22 x 14 x 9 inches .

Hand Luggage Fees

Almost all airlines will allow bringing one personal item completely for free. When it comes to carry-ons though, most airlines allow bringing one for free, but budget airlines might charge a fixed fee depending on your class, which could be anywhere from 10$ to 50$. For instance, Spirit airlines will charge 31-50$ for carry-on luggage and Ryanair will charge about 6-20 EUR.

Keep in mind that most of these items are usually allowed for free in addition to other hand baggage:

• Assistive devices for the disabled
• Other wearable clothes
• Walking canes
• Food in disposable containers meant to consume on the airplane
• Child restraint seats
• Duty-free items
• Reading materials
• Cameras ( some airlines consider cameras as personal items, while others don’t. )
• Pet carriers ( Some airlines consider pet carriers as personal items, while others don’t. )

Read Next : 12 Best Underseat Bags Without Wheels in 2022

Hand Luggage Advantages and Disadvantages

Using only hand luggage and avoiding checked luggage altogether is a technique used by many, me included because it offers many benefits:

• No need to wait in line at the check-in counter
• Most of the time, completely for free
• Less likely to be stolen or lost because it’s on you at all times
• Easier to carry around, especially if you use a backpack as a personal item together with a carry-on suitcase
• The best place for keeping valuables and fragile items
• You can access all of your items during the flight
• Less likely to break because it isn’t exposed to baggage handling

However, there are some drawbacks to using only hand luggage, such as:

• Less packing space
• Harder to manage for families because they usually need to bring more items
• It needs to be lugged around the airport after security instead of being handed over at the check-in desks
• Usually, has much stricter weight limits

Tips for Buying Hand Luggage

• If you’re flying on short flights, consider using only an underseat rolling suitcase or backpack. People who fly for business often only need to fly out domestically for a quick meeting, so a lot of them travel with only a personal item. You can easily fit a spare shirt in there as well as some toiletries and a laptop, which is really all you need.
• For up to two-week vacations, a carry-on and a personal item offer more than enough space. Personally, I’m a light packer, and I can travel for up to three weeks or even a month using only a carry-on and a personal item. For most people, this offers enough space.
• Consider getting a backpack with a back strap as your choice of personal item. That way, you can secure it around the retractable handle on top of your carry-on, which makes it incredibly easy to lug around. Especially in crowded areas, such as public transport and airports.
• If you’ll be flying internationally, get a carry-on under 22 x 14 x 9 inches with wheels and handles included. On domestic flights, you’ll probably be able to use something larger, but if you want to avoid paying extra fees down the line, make sure your carry-on is under this limit.
• Make sure to get lightweight hand luggage. The weight restrictions are pretty strict as it is already, so make sure to get a lightweight carry-on and personal item. Especially the carry-on, because you’ll have to stow it in the overhead compartments. So instead of going with a hardside carry-on, get a fabric one instead, which will most likely be lighter.

Read Next: Airport Travel Terminology 101 – The Ultimate Guide

Checked Luggage

Checked luggage is all baggage that’s too large or too heavy to be carried on the flight, and has to be checked in instead. This means that you’ll need to hand it over at the check-in counters at the airport. The baggage will then be transferred over to baggage handling and it will be loaded in the cargo hold of the airplane . When you land, you’ll have to pick up your checked luggage from the luggage conveyor belts in the baggage reclaim area.

You can use other kinds of baggage as well for checked luggage, not just suitcases. You can also use large backpacks, duffel bags, totes, musical instruments in their cases, large trunks, and other oversized items. A lot of times, you’ll have to check in specialty items, such as large musical instruments and all kinds of sporting equipment, such as bicycles, snowboards, golf clubs, e.t.c.

Read Next: What to Put in Carry-on and What in Checked Luggage (Guide)

Checked Luggage Size and Weight Restrictions

Most commonly, checked luggage will have a size restriction of 62 linear inches (height + width + length) and a weight limit of 50 or 70 lbs. These are the IATA guidelines that are enforced in the EU and US which are there to keep the baggage handlers from handling too heavy bags. Oversized and overweight baggage will be accepted, but it will be labeled as oversized/overweight and you’ll have to pay a fee for that unless it’s sporting equipment. For instance, American Airlines will accept oversized bags up to 126 linear inches (320 cm) and overweight bags up to 100 lbs (45 kg.)

Small vs Medium vs Large Checked Luggage

Checked luggage comes in different sizes, and usually, the longest dimension is 23-32 inches long. Depending on the longest side, checked luggage is usually divided into three sizes, which are small, medium, and large. Small checked suitcases usually are 23-24 inches on the longest size, medium ones 25-27 inches, and large ones in 28-32 inches. Quite often, suitcases above 30 inches will actually be oversized, because they’re over 62 linear inches with wheels and handles included.

For most people, a medium checked suitcase will be the best option, because it will be just within the checked luggage size limits and offer a large amount of space for all of their items.

Read Next: 8 Best 62-Inch Checked Suitcases in 2022

Checked Luggage Fees

On most international flights, airlines will allow you to bring one or two checked bags completely for free. On domestic flights, usually, they’ll offer either one free checked bag or none at all. This depends a lot on the airline though. Additional bags will cost on a per-bag basis, starting with cheaper rates and continuing with more expensive ones. For instance, for American Airlines on domestic flights, the first checked bag will cost 30$, the second 40$, and the third one 100$ .

If you aren’t flying alone and you’re carrying a lot of checked bags, it’s usually a better idea to split them evenly among all the passengers to save some money on the checked baggage fees. It also isn’t advisable to bring more than two checked bags because the fees start to get pretty costly after that.

The fees for overweight and oversized luggage can get very expensive, upwards of 100-200$ for each bag, so before you arrive at the airport, make sure that each bag is under the weight limit.

Checked Luggage Advantages and Disadvantages

Although there are a lot of disadvantages for flying with checked luggage, there are some advantages as well, such as:

• Checked bags offer much more space
• Better for families who carry a lot of items
• Checked bags don’t need to be carried around the airport after checking them in
• No need to worry about size and weight, as the restrictions are pretty hard to reach
• You should be able to get away with a slightly oversized checked bag because they’re rarely measured

However, there’s a reason why I don’t travel with checked luggage. In my opinion, it has more disadvantages, such as:

• With a personal item, carry-on, and a checked suitcase, it’s much more difficult to use public transport
• Checked luggage is mostly a paid service, especially with budget airlines
• There’s just too much space if you’re a light packer
• Checked bags can get damaged from baggage handling
• Items get lost or stolen much more frequently when packed in checked luggage
• You won’t be able to access the contents of checked luggage during the whole flight
• In case checked baggage gets lost, you’ll be left without a lot of items and your trip might be ruined
• You’ll have to wait in the check-in line at the airport

Tips for Buying Checked Luggage

• Avoid plastic checked suitcases. Hardside ABS, Polycarbonate, or Polypropylene suitcases can crack pretty easily. When they’re thrown in the baggage area under a pile of other suitcases, this can happen very easily. That’s why you should choose an aluminum checked suitcase or a fabric one, which will be much less likely to break.
• Before buying a checked suitcase, double-check that it’s below 62 linear inches.  Oversized checked luggage fees can get pretty expensive, usually between 100-200$. To avoid this hefty fee make sure that your suitcase is below 62 linear inches (height + width + depth) with handles and wheels included. A very large amount of large checked suitcases, in fact, about 50-80% of them are oversized, so pay close attention to the dimensions.
• A medium checked suitcase (25-27 inches) is more than enough for most people. Usually, medium checked suitcases are 58-61 linear inches in size, which is just below the 62 linear inch size limit, so when you’re looking for a checked suitcase, get one in this size.
• Get a bright or patterned checked suitcase. Checked luggage gets lost much more frequently. So when you’re shopping for a new case, make sure to get one that’s colorful and easy to recognize . It will be much easier to spot on the baggage carousel and if it gets lost, the chances of finding it will be much better because you’ll be able to describe it better. If you already own a dark checked suitcase, get a colorful patterned luggage cover .
• Avoid checked luggage with spinner wheels. Rolling, inline (2 wheels) suitcases are better options for checked suitcases because they’re much less likely to break while the bag is checked in. Spinner wheels are much more likely to fall off because they’re extended out from the main shape of the suitcase. It’s actually one of the most common things that break on checked bags.
• Consider getting a pelican trunk instead of a typical checked suitcase. They’re basically indestructible and they’re one of the most popular choices for climbers, camera crews, and other people who need to bring a lot of expensive checked gear.

What Size Luggage Should You Get?

There are all kinds of different factors that determine what kind of suitcase you should get. Before buying any luggage, you should understand how often and where you’ll be traveling, how many people you’ll be flying with, what are your packing traditions, and so on.

Are You an Over-Packer?

There’s nothing wrong with being an over-packer, but it will affect what kind of luggage you should choose and how much you’ll be paying in fees. Most over-packers like to travel with a checked suitcase and a personal item, such as a small backpack, skipping the carry-on entirely. You’ll be able to pack your valuables and essentials in the personal item and be left with a very large amount of space in your checked suitcase, where you can pack all of your clothing and anything else you’d need. A medium checked suitcase will usually offer about 90-100 l of space while a carry-on only 35-50 l, so the difference is pretty significant.

How Long You’ll Be Traveling?

The length of your trips/vacations also determines what kind of luggage you should get. If you’ll be traveling for months, unless you’re an extreme minimalist, you’ll need to bring some kind of checked luggage. But for two to three-week trips, it’s perfectly fine to bring only a carry-on and a personal item, unless you’re an over-packer or you need to bring other kinds of gear for your job, planned activities, e.t.c.

Where You’re Flying to and What Are Your Planned Activities?

Think about what you’ll be doing and what gear you’ll need. Do you need scuba diving or skiing gear? Are you into photography and need to bring a large tripod? Are you flying to a cold-weather country and you need to bring a lot of extra warm clothing? The kind of travel that you’ll be doing, determines what size luggage you should get.

Think about valuable and fragile gear specifically. Try to keep the most valuable items in your hand luggage. If that isn’t possible, remember to ensure your gear and invest in a durable, large enough, checked suitcase or trunk. A good option for that is the pelican trunk , which is the industry standard for professionals.

Tip: It’s Better to Buy a Smaller Suitcase, Instead of a Larger One

Many people will probably disagree but I personally think that it’s always a smarter choice to buy a smaller suitcase instead of a larger one. This will make you become a lighter packer, which could end up saving you some money in the long run on checked baggage fees.

A lot of times, people are bringing gear that they don’t really need and end up with heavier, oversized suitcases. Remember that you’ll also have to carry your luggage around the town and to the airport. You’re on a vacation to get new experiences, not buy a lot of unneeded stuff, and be exhausted from carrying an oversized suitcase. Of course, if you’re traveling for work, that may not be true, but for general leisure travel, it’s a better idea to get a slightly smaller suitcase than you think you’d need.

What Size Luggage I Use Personally

I usually travel one or two weeks at a time, so a personal item (backpack) and an international carry-on are more than enough to fit in everything that I need. I rarely use checked luggage because I’m a minimalistic packer.

My favorite has become the B06XZTZ7GB ?tag=cleverjourney-general-th-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1′ title=’Matein laptop backpack’ target=’_blank’ rel=’nofollow noopener sponsored’ data-aawp-product-id=’ B06XZTZ7GB ‘ data-aawp-product-title=’Matein laptop backpack’>Matein laptop backpack for a personal item, which fits perfectly under the front seat and has many neat compartments for everything that I need. It’s 18 x 12 x 7.8 inches large, but I never pack it full, so it always fits under the front seat.

And for the carry-on, I use the B07BM9DFX9 ?tag=cleverjourney-general-th-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1′ title=’Travelpro Maxlite 5 International 19-inch carry-on’ target=’_blank’ rel=’nofollow noopener sponsored’ data-aawp-product-id=’ B07BM9DFX9 ‘ data-aawp-product-title=’Travelpro Maxlite 5 International 19-inch carry-on’>Travelpro Maxlite 5 International 19-inch carry-on , which is pretty light and small enough for domestic luggage restrictions. It’s 21.75 x 15.75 x 7.75 inches large with wheels and handles included, so sometimes it’s a little bit above international limits, but I’ve never had any issues with it. I’ve tried squeezing it inside the measurement boxes myself, and I managed to fit it in with a tight squeeze.

My laptop backpack has a rear strap that wraps around the carry-on’s retractable handle so my backpack can be secured on top of it. It’s handy because my carry-on has spinner wheels, and it’s super easy to move around. In tight spaces, for instance, in the subway, it’s much easier to store the backpack on top of the carry-on.

If you’re a light packer like me, I’d suggest going with a backpack and a carry-on. It’ll be enough for 1-2 week trips, but if you wash some clothes midway and don’t buy too many souvenirs, you can stretch that to three weeks or even a month. If you’re traveling longer than that or you’re an over-packer, you should get a 25-27-inch medium checked suitcase instead of the carry-on.

Also check out: Airplane seat upgrades

Frequently Asked Questions About Luggage Sizes

What’s the largest luggage size for checked-in luggage ( 62-inch luggage ).

In order to comply with the 62-linear-inch checked luggage size requirement, you shouldn’t get a suitcase larger than 29-30 inches (longest side.) Almost all 31 and 32-inch suitcases will be oversized. Even a lot of 28-30-inch suitcases are oversized, so you have to double-check the product description and find out how large they really are. Count the total sum of the height, width, and depth, with wheels and handles included to get the true linear-inch measurement. The largest suitcases within the 62-linear-inch restriction are about 100-120l in volume.

To maximize the amount of space that you can have inside, choose a fabric suitcase, which will open from the top, instead of the middle, as you see on most hardside cases. This means you’ll have a larger main compartment. Also, make sure to get it with inline rolling wheels, instead of spinner ones, which results in a lot of unused space.

Tip: If you want to maximize the amount of space you get from a 62-linear-inch checked suitcase, get the Pelican 1615 travel case , which is exactly 62 linear inches in size and is virtually indestructible.

What’s the largest size for hand luggage?

When we talk about hand luggage, there are different restrictions for personal items and carry-ons. There are also different restrictions for each airline. In general, personal items should be below 17 x 10 x 7 inches in dimensions and carry-ons under 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

The largest size restriction for personal items that we found was on Southwest airlines, where personal items need to be under 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches. The largest size restriction for carry-ons was on Alaska Air, which was 24 x 17 x 10 inches. Generally, more expensive airlines will have looser restrictions for hand luggage.

What are the 3 luggage sizes?

If we’re talking about dimensions, the three luggage sizes are height (from top to bottom), width (from side to side), and depth (from front to back).

If, however, we’re talking in terms of luggage types, what people most likely mean with the 3 luggage sizes is personal items, carry-ons, and checked luggage, which have three different size and weight restrictions.

What’s the best luggage size for 20 and 23 kg?

The most common weight restriction for checked luggage on budget airlines is 20 or 23 kg (44 or 50 lbs). The best luggage size for this weight restriction is between 25-29 inches (longest size) . That’s because 20 or 23 kg checked luggage has to be under 62 linear inches (157 cm). You can calculate the linear inches by adding up height, width, and depth. Most suitcases above 29 inches will be over this limit, which means you’ll have to pay oversized baggage fees. You should always include the wheels and handles in these measurements.

Can I use backpacks and duffel bags as hand/checked luggage?

Yes, you can use backpacks and duffel bags as checked luggage. Theoretically, you can use any type of bag as checked luggage, as long as it’s durable enough to withstand baggage handling. You could even use a cardboard box , although it may not be a wise idea.

Personally, I’ve only traveled with a large backpack as my checked luggage. That’s because I do a lot of hiking and my hiking backpack is much larger than a carry-on. It’s pretty common for people to travel only with a large backpack (not only hike) and keep their essentials in a plastic bag or a tote bag during the flight. This gives you a lot of freedom because everything you need is packed inside one large backpack.

Do I need to include wheels and handles when measuring luggage?

You always need to include wheels, handles, and other elements that are sticking out when measuring luggage. A lot of people don’t know this and they end up purchasing oversized luggage, only to regret it later. You also need to take into account that if you’re buying an expendable suitcase, it will become a few inches wider when expanded.

What size luggage should I use for a week-long trip?

For a week-long trip, everyone should be able to fit everything they’d need in a carry-on and a personal item. Some people struggle with over-packing and end up using checked luggage for week-long trips, which can be avoided with smarter packing choices. When packing for your trip, always lay everything out and re-evaluate each individual item individually. Ask yourself if you’ll be using these items on your trip. And if the answer is “Maybe” you should leave that specific item at home. Personally, I can fit everything I’d need for 2-4 weeks in a single carry-on and a personal item.

What if my checked luggage is oversized?

IATA, which is the largest worldwide airline regulator, states that checked bags can’t be over 62 linear inches in order to keep the baggage handlers from working with oversized bags. Anything over 62 linear inches will be labeled as “oversized” and will cost you an extra 100-200$, depending on the airline.

Even if you pay the hefty oversized luggage fees, there is a limit to how large checked luggage you can bring. Each airline considers this individually, and, for instance, American Airlines will allow oversized bags up to 126 linear inches (320 cm).

The rules are slightly different for sporting equipment, though. Bicycles, for instance, will almost always be allowed, even if they’re oversized, and their luggage fees won’t be as expensive.

What if my checked luggage is overweight?

Overweight checked luggage is allowed, but will be marked as overweight and will cost an additional 100-200$, depending on the airline. IATA states that checked baggage can’t weigh over 70 lbs (31 kg), to protect the baggage handlers from working with overweight items, so anything over that will be marked as overweight. Each airline has a different limit on overweight checked luggage. For instance, American Airlines will allow checked baggage up to 100 lbs (45 kg).

Do carry-on measurements need to be exact?

Unfortunately, carry-on measurements need to be exact. Most airlines have measurement boxes inside airports, which are in the exact measurements of their restrictions. If your carry-on looks oversized, they’ll ask you to put it inside the measurement box. Carry-on suitcases aren’t really flexible, so you won’t be able to get away with an oversized carry-on. If, on the other hand, you’re using a duffel bag or a backpack as your carry-on, then you might get away with a slightly oversized bag, as you’ll be able to squeeze it inside the measurement box.

Should I get hard or soft luggage ?

There are pros and cons for both, but I personally tend to lean towards fabric luggage. It’s lighter, less likely to crack or break, and you can extend it slightly outwards if you’ve over-packed. On the other hand, hardside luggage offers more protection to your items and is better-looking in my opinion. Modern hardside suitcases made from Polycarbonate are also pretty durable and don’t weigh much more than comparable fabric alternatives. So it doesn’t really matter that much whether you choose a hardside or softside bag – it’s more a matter of preference.

The only real instance where I wouldn’t use a hardside plastic suitcase is in checked luggage. They’re put under a lot more pressure from baggage handling and quite often, they get thrown around and placed at the bottom of a pile of checked suitcases. They’re much more likely to each up with cracks or dents, so using a fabric-checked suitcase would make more sense.

Should I get a rolling or spinner suitcase ?

There are advantages to both, but generally, it’s better to stick with spinner suitcases for carry-on luggage and rolling ones for checked luggage. That’s because while spinner suitcases are much easier to move around, they’re much easier to break off the suitcase. And in checked luggage, they’re much more likely to break off from luggage handling.

Rolling suitcases will usually be more spacious because the wheels are somewhat integrated within the main frame. On spinner suitcases, they’ll extend outwards of the suitcase, which results in a lot of unused space underneath the suitcase. Remember that the wheels are counted towards the total measurements.

But if you’re having back problems or in general lugging around a suitcase gives you hard time, then a suitcase with spinner wheels might make more sense. Compared to inline rolling suitcases, they’re much, much easier to move around – they practically roll by themselves.

How much luggage can I bring on international flights ?

Most airlines will allow one personal item and one carry-on for free on international flights. As for checked luggage, most airlines will allow one or even two checked bags for free for each passenger, and the rest will need to be paid for with additional fees, ranging from 30-100$. In general, the fees increase for each next checked bag and could be as follows: 30$ for the first checked bag, 40$ for the second, and 100$ for each next one.

You’ll be able to bring up to 10 checked suitcases (even though it’ll cost a small fortune!) but on some international destinations, a bit less. Airlines operate within the rules set by airline regulators, and in some countries, each passenger can have only two or three checked bags.

How many pieces and what size should a luggage set be?

Most luggage sets come in three pieces: one carry-on (19-23 inches), one medium checked suitcase (25-27 inches), and one large checked suitcase (28-32 inches). I would advise against getting a 3-piece luggage set like this because quite often, the largest piece in the set is oversized, which means that it’s above the 62 linear inch limit and you’ll have to pay oversized luggage fees.

Instead, it would be much more beneficial to get a 2-piece set containing a carry-on and a medium checked suitcase, or a 3-piece set that also contains a personal item (underseat bag). If you’re getting a 3-piece set with a large checked bag, make sure that it isn’t oversized.

Luggage sets are often cheaper to get than buying each piece individually, so it’s quite often a smarter choice to buy a whole set.

Final Words

Getting the right size luggage is really important because if it’s oversized, you might end up paying extra in fees, or just end up with a lot of unused space. For anyone new to traveling, I’d advise getting a small backpack as a personal item and a carry-on that’s within 22 x 14 x 9 inches. This is more than enough for most trips, and I’m usually able to squeeze in everything needed for 2-4 weeks in there. If you’re an over-packer, you might need to swap that carry-on with a medium checked suitcase, which would be 25-27 inches in size (longest end).

This post is also available in: English

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How To Choose the Right Sized Travel Bag for Any Trip

Finding a properly sized travel bag is a key part of any successful trip, from a simple weekender to a month-long adventure.

Getting Started

There’s a travel bag out there for everyone, and we’re here to help you find it. The process can be a little overwhelming, but narrowing down what needs to fit into your pack is a great place to start. In this post, we’re going to be talking about different bag sizes and their uses. By the time we’re done, you’ll know just what size pack you need (or at least be headed in the right direction).

We’ll cover everything from 1L slings that keep your pockets free all the way up to 60L outdoor adventure packs for carrying the whole shebang. Whether you’re searching for the perfect pack for daily commutes or are ready to jump off the deep end into backpacking across Asia, we’re psyched to help you get started.

Before we get into it, there are a few essential things to consider. When we mention liters, we mean it in terms of volume, not dimensions. Two different 40L travel bags may not fit the same amount of gear. This is highly dependent on the built-in organization, available compartments, and shapes that the pack implements. We notice the most significant differences between different brands, but sometimes even two travel backpacks made by the same company will differ in packability. Ensuring all your gear will fit inside is one of many critical pieces to the intricate puzzle of picking your next travel bag.

Here at Pack Hacker, we have a ton of travel gear reviews, guides, and how-to videos that will help get you started, continue your journey, or find your magnum opus.

Okay—now let’s get into the fun stuff.

Pocket Dump Sling (1L)

Starting off on the small end of the spectrum is the 1L sling, or what we like to call the Pocket Dump Sling. It might seem tiny, but we promise, 1L is bigger than you think! It’s small enough for you to wear it all day without getting uncomfortable, but it will fit just about anything you usually store in your pockets (hence the name).

Use it to carry your daily essentials: a cell phone, keys, wallet, headphones, and even a small point-and-shoot camera or snack. We also love using these packs while traveling to store a passport, earbuds, travel wallet, and other travel documents like a boarding pass. Pocket dump slings are great at the airport because instead of removing all the items from your pockets and slowing up the line, everything is already in the sling. Just throw it on the conveyor belt and continue through the checkpoint.

From this category, we recommend the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Hip Pack . It’s pretty versatile, as you can wear it as a sling or on your waist, and it packs away nicely for compact storage when not in use.

The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Hip Pack all packed up.

We’ve also found that a sling of this size is great for walks around a new town, city, or nature area while abroad. You can throw your essentials (and maybe a friend or partner’s essentials too, if you’re feeling generous), head out on the town, and keep your hands and pockets free the whole time.

Pockets Plus (2.5L)

If you love slings like we do but crave a little more space, try something around the 2.5L size. We call them Pockets Plus because they fit all the items we usually carry in our pockets, plus a few extra goodies.

This size is excellent for daily use and while traveling because it offers a little more flexibility in what you can bring along with you. Similar to a Pocket Dump Sling, you can leave your pockets empty when you head through a TSA checkpoint. You will also have additional space to bring entertainment like a Nintendo Switch or a small tablet, a couple of snacks, a battery bank, and a few cables to keep everything charged up while you’re on the move. We’ve even been able to fit a packable rain jacket and set of wet wipes, so long as they have a small enough form factor!

The Aer City Sling 2 all packed up.

We love the Aer City Sling 2 , which comes in right at 2.5L. It’s one of the more comfortable carries that we’ve tested, and it has ample space for stowing your gear. We also love its low-profile design, especially while traveling to ensure that we don’t look too touristy. While on the plane, have quick access to entertainment like a Nintendo Switch without digging around below the seat. You can even hook it onto the seat in front of you using a HeroClip for easier access. You’d better stow it during turbulence, though!

Messenger Bag (13L)

If you need to bring along more gear than a basic sling allows, we recommend you grab a messenger bag between 9L and 13L. These packs are great for when you don’t necessarily want the weight of a backpack, but your list of essential items is a little larger, like on short hikes or day trips to nearby towns abroad. If you are set on carrying a sling, there’s also a travel bag subset that's a cross between a messenger bag and a sling.

A 13L messenger bag is a good pick for commuters who want something that won’t take up much space on trains or buses. It’s also a low-profile option if you’re exploring a new city and need more space but don’t want a full travel backpack. These bags are also great for cycle commuting because they aren’t too heavy and allow access to your gear while in transit.

There are many different styles to go with, so it's essential to think about which features are important for your usage needs. A pack with a large main compartment will hold the most gear but lacks the organization that some crave. A pack with more organization may not have as much room for larger items, but each item has a home.

The Peak Design Everyday Messenger all packed up.

In the 13L range, we like the Peak Design Everyday Messenger pack, as it can fit all of our daily go-to gear inside the large main compartment. It does have some organizational capabilities with the included FlexFold dividers, but in our experience, the dividers aren’t the most durable. As we said, it all depends on your specific usage needs.

Daily Bag (15L)

Some people don’t like slings and would prefer to wear a backpack while commuting to work or exploring a new city, which is just fine by us. For a travel bag you can wear every day and carry most of your work essentials, we recommend something between 15L and 18L. This should give you enough space to bring all the gear you need, plus a little bit extra.

Although just a minor step-up from the 13L messenger, we’ve found that those two to five liters can make all the difference. Not only can a daily bag carry everything you need for work, but it will also be versatile enough for extracurriculars, too. So much room for activities!

Hit the gym after work, stop at the coffee shop for a drink and to get your side-hustle on, or even head out for a hike somewhere on the way home. The biggest draw of a daily bag over the smaller packs listed above is the ability to do an abundance of different activities without stopping home to drop off and grab more gear.

The Tom Bihn Luminary 15 all packed up.

We recommend the Tom Bihn Luminary 15 , Able Carry Thirteen Daybag , and Away Small Zip Backpack in this range. Each of these packs will be able to carry a laptop, water bottle, packable jacket, and even a few extra goodies like a tech pouch, phone, wallet, or change of clothes. They all keep a pretty low profile, so you won't feel like you're lugging around a giant travel bag.

Personal Item Backpack (20L)

Shifting from a daily bag to a personal item bag is another small jump, but we’ve found that a 20L travel backpack has just enough space for a weekend trip, or longer if you pack smart. We like this size travel bag because it will likely fit under the seat in front of you on a flight, which means no pesky carry-on fees or worrying about your bag getting lost, which is a big plus. They're great for heading straight to the airport from the office, as they can handle your work needs with your travel accessories added in, too.

It's important to note that it's ultimately up to your airline to decide whether or not a travel bag is allowed to be used as a personal item, but we’ve found that most packs around 20L will fit the bill. It's always a good idea to check the specific rules and dimensions of who you'll be flying with before you start packing, though. There isn't much worse than getting to the airport to find out that your personal item has evolved into a carry-on and that you're stuck with the bill.

After you've stowed your laptop and other travel essentials, you should have room for a packing cube or two. This is great for organization and ensuring that you have all the items that you need for the duration of your trip. If you pack minimally and strategically, you can make a personal item backpack work for week-long trips, too!

The Bellroy Tokyo Totepack all packed up.

In this range, we recommend the Bellroy Tokyo Totepack . It has an open main compartment that is great for getting the most out of the volume. Toss in a few packing cubes and a tech pouch, and you're ready to take on the weekend!

Daypack/Travel Backpack Hybrid (30L)

We love the daypack and travel backpack combo because it enables you to pivot between everyday activities and traveling with ease. We like travel bags around 30L for this purpose because anything larger will be a bit too big for daily use, and anything smaller won't have enough gusto for longer trips. Finding that happy medium is vital for a comfortable journey without sacrificing any essential gear along the way.

For us, a good daypack and travel backpack combo needs to fit a laptop, tablet, toiletry kit, several small or medium-sized packing cubes, a tech pouch, and other various odds and ends. However, your packing list may vary depending on how you like to travel.

We keep an eye out for ways to compress or expand a hybrid travel bag because this enables it to be more versatile. Compression straps and compression zippers are both great features that will allow you to adjust the size depending on your needs at the time, but not all brands include these options.

When you arrive at your destination, take out packing cubes and other items that don't need to be with you at all times. Then you can compress the pack (if it has that feature), fill it with what you need for the day, and head out into adventure mode. When it's time to head home, load the gear and cubes back up with any souvenirs you picked up along the way and go to the airport. If you've picked up too many presents for your family back home, a travel backpack with attachment points is great because you can clip additional pouches and accessories on the outside of the pack.

The Knack Pack Series 2 all packed up.

The Knack Pack Series 2 is a pack with a lot of features for more efficient travel. Uncompressed, the pack is 35L, a great size for traveling, but it sizes down to a handy 24L for daily usage. It has a ton of internal organization, ensuring that every item will have a home and nothing will get lost on the journey. Both of these features make it a great contender to get you to and from your destination stress-free, which means you will be able to enjoy your trip more.

Travel Backpack (40L to 45L)

We're now on the edge of what can be considered a carry-on bag, and we have to admit, we’re loving every minute of it. Most 40L packs are about as large as you’ll be able to bring onto the plane, but adding a few more liters is worth it if you can (and want to) check a travel bag.

These packs are the standard size for one-bag travelers who will be away from home for extended periods of time. Suppose you will be spending a few months bouncing around different countries in Europe, a year exploring what Asia has to offer, or country hopping through Central and South America. In that case, this size travel bag has your name all over it!

Now that we’ve made our way to the larger end of the size spectrum, we tend to look for a few features that add quality of life. We like clamshell packs because they give you the ability to see the entire main compartment at once, rather than digging through to make sure you have everything you need for a day's work or specific adventure. It's almost like a suitcase you can wear on your back, and we find we can be most organized and comfortable this way.

The Osprey Fairview all packed up.

One of our favorites in this category is the Osprey Farpoint. The pack comes in both men’s ( Farpoint ) and women’s ( Fairview ) styling at 40L. Our team has tested this travel bag for over a year in over a dozen different countries worldwide and found that it can hold all of our gear and remain comfortable in almost every situation. No bag is perfect, but a quality travel backpack will quite literally be by your side through it all, so ensuring that you get all the features you need is essential.

Gear Hauler (60L)

Ah, finally. The granddaddy of them all.

Have you ever heard the phrase “everything but the kitchen sink” and thought, well, what if I want to bring the kitchen sink, too? Then you're in the right place. A gear hauler is a great fit for a road trip where the size of your travel bag isn't the biggest concern. This normally comes in the form of a duffel, but there are a couple of colossal travel backpacks out there if that's your preference.

In the 50 to 60 L range, gear haulers are also great for outdoor adventures and hobbies that require a lot of equipment, like camping. Another great use for such a pack is to transport coats, snow pants, boots, and skiing and snowboarding gear in the winter.

We’ve also run into on-the-move creators who find them useful when packing audio and video equipment alongside their clothes on trips where they won't be able to stop back at home between gigs. The great thing about a huge travel bag is that you don't need to worry about what you’re bringing because of the sheer volume these packs offer. Unless you quite literally bring your kitchen sink, odds are, it will fit.

The YETI Crossroads 60L all packed up.

In this range, we like the YETI Crossroads 60L Duffel . It has a monumentally large main compartment that's complete with two stowable dividers, which is great for separating different kinds of gear. You could do clothes in one, camera equipment in another, and food and snacks in the last one for an epic cross country photography road trip. Or you could fill all three sections with the Pokemon cards you've been collecting since you were a kid and stow it on the top shelf of your closet so your partner thinks you finally got rid of them after all these years. The opportunities are endless!

Wrapping Up

As you can probably tell, there are a ton of travel bags out there, and each one thrives in a different setting. Odds are, you’ll have a use for almost all of the packs we listed here, but it’s about figuring out what works best for you and your specific usage needs. Be sure to check out our gear reviews , guides , and blog for more assistance finding your perfect pack!

January 31, 2022

Author: Eric Hergenreder

Eric has been across the globe, but his favorite place to explore is his home state of Michigan. His love for photography has taken him all around the Great Lake State, often writing about his travels so that others can enjoy them, too. Eric loves messing around with analog photography, watching soccer, and searching for the world’s best burger in his spare time.

Luggage shop by size

The Ultimate Luggage Size and Weight Guide

Your trip can go from exciting to frustrating quickly if you end up at the airport and discover your luggage isn't the right size. Suddenly you're shelling out more money than expected because your baggage has to be checked, and now you don't have access to your carry on. Before heading to the airport, check out our luggage size guide to stay within the limits.

When to use a Checked Bags

There's a certain convenience that comes with checking your bags. You can pack your carry on minimally, enjoy the lightened load, and still bring everything you need on the trip. With much more freedom to pack what you need, the most difficult decision will now be what bag you bring? Peruse the  Travelpro Checked Luggage page to find the perfect bag for

Checked Baggage Size and Dimensions

While you certainly can pack more when you check a bag, you still have to follow limitations. Checked luggage sizes vary depending on the airline and whether or not you are a "frequent flier" with that particular airline.

We've rounded up all the major airlines and listed the  checked luggage sizes and their limits to help you know what you're getting into.

Checked Suitcase Weight Limits

Airlines impose a luggage weight limit to ensure the plane isn't overloaded and to reduce the possibility of injuring the baggage handlers. Most domestic flights have a checked bag weight limit of around 50 pounds (unless you want to pay a fee to pack something heavier). However, your  international checked baggage size  varies considerably depending on which airline you choose.

When to Carry On

Many airlines allow a free carry on (usually for the overhead bin) and a free personal item (usually for under the seat in front of you). Domestic flights limit their size but don't pay much attention to the weight. International flights have specific size and weight requirements.  Travelpro has a lineup of stylish and functional carry on bags  for every type of trip. Related: See what you should bring in your TSA-approved carry on .

Carry On Bag Size and Dimensions

Domestic flights follow similar guidelines for carry on dimensions: roughly 22x14x9 inches. Check out our rundown of maximum carry-on sizes by airline to ensure you meet the TSA carry on size limits.

When you’re heading overseas, there are different rules to follow. International flights have different guidelines for size, and most also limit the weight of the carry on. Before you fly, make sure you’re not over the weight limit. You can read more about the international luggage standards here.

Helpful Tip: Our modern luggage collections all contain a variety of carry on suitcases that will meet your preferred airlines size restrictions.

Personal Items Limitations

Personal items get stowed beneath the seat in front of you. This space is designed to give easy access to items you might need while flying: laptops, medication, books, and more.

Space is limited, though. If you exceed it, you may have to store your personal item in the overhead bin – and that could result in added fees.

Related: Learn more about  what counts as a personal item and their size limitations .

Knowing what to bring and how big your luggage sizes can be, will make your trip much smoother and more enjoyable. As you plan your next getaway, find the perfect bag that accents your personality , and review the size guidelines to know whether you should check or carry on.

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Luggage Sizes: Understanding And Choosing The Best For You

You want to buy a new suitcase but you are not sure which size to get? I’m here to help! In this post, I will tell you everything you need to consider, in order to get the perfect suitcase size.

I will also show you some good luggage options at the very end. Be sure to check those out, if you’re not sure which suitcases are worth buying.

Suitcase Sizes: The Basics

The traditional suitcase sizes range from 18” to 32”. So, there are a lot of different luggage sizes to choose from.

Each different size of luggage also has a specific luggage volume you can calculate to see how much you can fit inside it.

Let’s take a look at the breakdown.

Small Suitcase Size / Carry-On Size

• 19-22 inches
• Weekend or business trips

Suitcases that are up to 22” are considered carry-on luggage. While all larger bags are considered checked luggage .

But this is not always the case – some airlines allow larger bags inside the cabin , and will accept a 23” suitcase as a carry-on.

Medium Suitcase Size

• 25-27 inches
• Long weekend or week-long trips

A Medium sized suitcase tends to be between 25″-27″ and can easily fit everything you need for a weekend or even a week’s beach holiday.

If you are packing for a variety of climates or need cold weather gear for a ski holiday, then I find it a struggle to fit everything in. That is where a large luggage size comes in.

Large Suitcase Size

• 28-31 inches

A large luggage size is handy for when you go on trips longer than a week or just need more variety of clothing or gear with you. They are obviously larger and heavier, so be careful you still stay within the luggage weight limits for your airline.

Extra-Large Luggage Size

• 32 inches or more

For those of you who are going for even longer vacations or have bulky clothing like winter jackets or lots of different outfits, then the 32″ sized luggage is the size you want to look at. Different manufacturers have various sizes in this league, but 32 inches is the starting point.

Luggage Collections

With most luggage collections, you will see either three or four different sizes for one suitcase. That’s usually 21”, 25”, 28”, and sometimes 31” . Obviously, this is not a rule – with some brands, you’ll see smaller suitcases, and with others, you’ll struggle to find anything under 25”.

The right size for you depends on a lot of different factors, and I will do my best to cover them all in this post. And hopefully, by the end of this post, you’ll be 100% sure which size is just perfect for you!

Packing 101: Understanding What Size Luggage You Actually Need

I have a friend who I love dearly. But whenever we go away, she has three pieces of luggage. And guess what – she winds up actually using only about 40% of the items she packed.

Don’t pack for “what if” scenarios. I used to make these mistakes when I was a lot younger, and boy did I learn from them. The thing that sobered me up was when I had to carry an over-packed 30” suitcase with a broken wheel on a ferry and a train. And I had another bag that held my 70-lb laptop, and everything that did not fit in the suitcase.

I had sore arms for the next three or four days. And all of that because of the “what if” packing – turns out that the chances you will need a proper jacket and rain boots in a seaside town in the middle of July are non-existent.

You need to understand what you actually need, and what you don’t. You don’t need the third pair of jeans or the fifteenth pair of socks, or even your compression socks . And you certainly don’t need that shirt you haven’t worn since your graduation.

Once you have a really good understanding of what you actually need, you will be able to pack for long trips in small suitcases. Especially if you know some really cool packing hacks.

How Good Are Your Packing Skills?

Over the years I’ve learned to pack for two weeks in a small carry on . And you can too – it takes some time, practice, and a Marie-Kondo understanding of the things you actually need.

There are lots of useful tips and tricks you can learn that will tremendously reduce the amount of space you actually need in a suitcase. One of the best tricks I learned was to roll my clothes – if you haven’t tried this already, you’re missing out!

The next time you go pack your suitcase, try rolling your clothes instead of folding them. Not only will it save you a lot of space in your luggage, but it also keeps the clothes from wrinkling.

Another incredibly useful trick I learned was to put my underwear and socks into plastic bags and then stuff those inside my shoes. I also realized that this doesn’t work with all kinds of shoes, like soft Converse sneakers or espadrilles. But it works like a charm with bulkier footwear, and it really helps you utilize your suitcase to the max.

I don’t know about you, but before I learned this trick I used to pack my socks and underwear in the mesh zippered pockets on the cover of a softshell, or on the divider of a hardshell suitcase . Now I use that space for cosmetics, towels, or swimsuits, depending on what I’m packing for.

When you get really good at packing, you will realize that you don’t actually need a 32” suitcase for a two-week holiday.

How Are You Travelling?

Are you flying somewhere, or are you taking a train/driving?

And if you are flying, does your ticket allow for a checked bag? I find it easier to justify packing a big suitcase to myself if I’ve bought a ticket that includes a checked suitcase. But that’s not always the case, especially with short flights and budget airlines.

In this case, I’d say that the size of your suitcase depends mostly on your ticket. If you already paid for a checked bag, then by all means bring a 28” suitcase and pack everything you want inside it. But if your ticket doesn’t allow for checked luggage, you will save time and money if you opt for a carry-on. Especially if you’re going on a shorter trip, and you don’t need to bring too much stuff in the first place.

But if you are traveling by train or bus, then you’re better off getting a smaller suitcase. Think about it –you’ll have to drag that thing to the train station, then all the way to the hotel. Maybe you’re even switching between trains, or getting on a ferry at one point?

The lighter your luggage is, the easier it is for you to move around. You won’t be stressed out and you won’t be in pain if you’re not carrying a 40-lb suitcase.

If you’re driving somewhere, think about the trunk space . Sure, there’s plenty of room for your luggage if it’s just you and your partner, but if you’re going away with a group of people… One time I went on a holiday with 4 friends, in one car. None of us were allowed to bring a big suitcase because there simply wasn’t enough room in the trunk. Talk about being squashed like sardines.

This is something you need to think about – if you are getting in a car with three or four more people, you really need to pack light. The trunk will fill up really quickly, and there will be very little (if any) space in the back seat. And trust me, you don’t want to ride for 5 hours with your bags under your seat.

What Do You Need The Suitcase For?

Do you need a suitcase for a specific trip, or are you just looking to expand your luggage collection?

If you are buying a suitcase for one particular trip, then it makes sense to get a size that is just right for that trip. If you’re going away for a really long time, then you need a large bag. But if your trip is two weeks or under, you can manage with a 25” suitcase.

If you are buying a suitcase because you want to add another one to your existing luggage collection, make sure you get something you will use . Don’t get a 32” suitcase just because you don’t own one – if you’ve got this far without it, chances are you won’t use it too often. And if you are not using it often, then you are not getting your money’s worth.

Instead, consider which size you’re currently using most frequently. And then get another one – it’s good to have a backup if your favorite suitcase gets damaged beyond repair . Plus, if you’re always traveling with a 21” carry-on, then you will definitely get your money’s worth if you buy another one of those.

It’s kind of like buying perfume online – would you rather buy another bottle of your favorite perfume, or order something you’ve never smelled before and risk not liking it?

When Do You Travel Most Often?

Are we talking about the summer or winter holidays? Because the difference is huge.

Summer clothes are lightweight, thin, and take up very little space. But winter clothes are bulkier and heavier – one down jacket will take up as much space as a pair of jeans, a couple of tops, and a beach towel.

Therefore, it makes perfect sense to buy a larger suitcase if you’re going away to the mountains. Especially if you want to go skiing or snowboarding, and you need all the additional equipment. This is actually one of the few scenarios where I will tell you that it’s better to buy a really big suitcase.

For most other scenarios, you will rarely need something larger than 28” max. Especially in the spring and summer, when you’re packing thin and lightweight clothes, and you can wear that one jacket you want to bring.

Who Are You Travelling With?

Do you travel alone? With friends? With a spouse?

If you travel alone, it makes more sense to get a small suitcase. You don’t really have people that can carry it for you, and it’s a lot easier to go places with small and lightweight luggage.

But if you’re traveling with a partner or just one other person, then your best bet is splitting a suitcase with them. I always recommend this to couples and they always thank me – why would you bring two small suitcases, when you can fit clothes for both of you in one large bag?

You can alternate who carries the suitcase so neither of you gets too tired, and both of you can also have a backpack or a smaller duffel for any additional stuff you need.

This is a very useful trick for air travel – you don’t have to pay for two big suitcases. Instead you can have one checked bag and two carry-ons. And that can hold enough things for about a month.

How Much Do You Shop?

Do you only buy a couple of souvenirs , or do you go cray-cray if you see a hot sale?

If you plan to do a lot of shopping on your trip, then definitely go for a larger suitcase, preferably one with expandable capacity.

But don’t go too big – go for one or two sizes larger. And don’t pack it fully. Leave some room inside, so that you can fit all the things that you buy on your trip.

Even if you don’t normally shop too much on your trips, you will benefit from having an expandable suitcase. You never know – maybe you’ll find that one pair of sneakers you’ve been eyeing for months but are sold out everywhere else.

Where Are You Staying?

Are you staying in a hotel or AirBnB ? Maybe you’re even visiting a friend or family?

Here’s why I’m asking – if you’re staying someplace where you have a washer, you don’t need to bring too many clothes. Instead of packing 7 shirts for 7 days, you can just bring 4 and then wash them and wear them again.

So, if you have access to a washing machine, you can pack less stuff in a smaller suitcase. But if you’re staying in a hotel, then you don’t have that luxury. In that case, you will probably need a large suitcase size, which can fit all of your clothes.

Most Important Points

• Always go for the smallest suitcase size you feel comfortable with
• Don’t buy a giant suitcase just because you don’t have one
• Don’t pack for “what if” scenarios – if you wind up missing something, you can always buy it
• If you’re traveling with a partner or a friend, the two of you can split a really big suitcase
• If your plane ticket includes a checked bag go nuts
• If your plane ticket doesn’t include a checked bag get a carry-on
• If you’re traveling alone get a small suitcase
• If you are traveling in the winter, get a bigger suitcase because boots, jackets, and sweaters take up a lot more space than sundresses and shorts.
• If you have access to a washing machine, you don’t need too many clothes

I think that covers most of what I was saying earlier. Anyway, let’s check out some suitcases.

Top Product Overview

Best sized suitcases for travel, american tourister curio.

This is one of my favorite budget options. It’s a hardside suitcase, and it is available in three sizes – 20”, 25” and 29 ”. All of the suitcases are  made from polypropylene , and they are really lightweight. The only downside to these is that they don’t have  expandable capacity , and you will need to make the best of what you get.

At the moment, all three Curio suitcases are discounted and are under $100. SEE ALSO:  American Tourister Curio Detailed Review

Delsey Helium Aero

Delsey’s Helium Aero luggage is a  great durable option . The suitcases are  made from Polycarbonate,  which is the sturdiest material for luggage. It bends upon impact – you can literally dent the shell and then pop it back in place. These suitcases are  available in four different sizes , and they all feature e xpandable capacity.

Overall, a great choice for air travel.

SEE ALSO:  Delsey Helium Aero Full Review

Samsonite Solyte DLX

The Samsonite Solyte DLX is definitely one of the best and most durable soft side suitcases you can get. It’s made from 100% rugged polyester weave, which is a very popular material for sturdy soft luggage. It has excellent tear resistance , and it is also water-resistant, which is why it’s so popular.

Samsonite Solyte DLX suitcases are available in  three sizes,  they feature spinner wheels and all of them have the expandable capacity.

Travelpro Crew 11

Travelpro is a brand that manufactures luggage for airline employees. If it’s good enough for them, then it’s good enough for you, right?

The Crew 11 suitcases are a very popular option. They are  softshells with spinner wheels and multiple compartments  and pockets. The suitcases are made from  ballistic nylon , and they are very durable.

You can get these in a lot of different sizes, but the four I featured are the most popular options.

SEE ALSO:  Travelpro Crew 11 Review (Softsides & Hardsides)

Samsonite Omni PC

The Samsonite Omni PC is a very popular suitcase. It’s a Samsonite that you can get for less than $100  – I think that’s what appeals most to people.

These are  hardside suitcases , with a rather unusual shell design. But thanks to their diamond-pattern exterior, they are very scratch-resistant. All three Omni suitcases feature s pinner wheels, double packing compartments and expandable capacity.

If you’re looking for a high-quality suitcase at an affordable price, the Omni is the way to go.

Luggage Sizes FAQ

In this section, I’ll cover some of the most frequently asked questions about luggage sizes regarding both carry-ons and checked bags.

Are Suitcases Measured Diagonally?

No, suitcases are usually not measured diagonally . Instead, if airline personnel think your bag is too big for a carry-on, they will ask you to put it in a sizer that restricts height and depth of luggage. In practice, this means that you can get away with luggage that is an inch or two wider than it should be.

Also, suitcases are measured with wheels, handles, and other protrusions, so when you are shopping for a suitcase, be sure to look for external dimensions and not case dimensions.

Case dimensions only account for the size of the packing compartment – they don’t account for the wheels and handles. In general, the wheels and handles add about 1.5” to the bag, and that’s your difference between a carry-on and checked luggage.

Additionally, some airlines will restrict luggage based on linear size . Instead of measuring the diagonal, liner size is just adding up all the different dimensions. For example, most airlines will restrict checked baggage to 62” linear – this could be a 27” x 21” x 14” suitcase, or a 26” x 20” x 16” one.  For carry-ons, the usual restriction is 45” linear.

What’s The Biggest Suitcase Size?

The biggest suitcase size is 32”. These are extra-large checked suitcases that often measure 31-32” with the wheel and handle, and they are rare. Most brands will have a 28” suitcase as their biggest option – these bags often have a capacity of 90-100 liters, which is more than enough for the average person.

Why doesn’t everyone make extra-large checked because? Because they’re not very popular. A 28” suitcase is still big enough to get you through a 20-day trip, but it’s significantly lighter and easier to maneuver than a 32” one. Also, the bigger and heavier your luggage is, the more likely you are to go over the weight limit for checked bags and incur a penalty fee.

The actual biggest suitcase in the world was built in 1999, and it measures 13.33 x 8.75 x 4.16ft. It’s obviously not for sale and it was built just for the purposes of getting a Guinness World Record, but hey – now you know a useless fun fact!

What Is Carry-On Suitcase Size?

The maximum allowed size for a carry-on suitcase is determined by the airline, but in most cases it is 45” linear. For most airlines, the maximum height of a carry-on suitcase is 22”, including the wheels and handles. However, and I can’t stress this enough, it is very important that you always check what the policy of the airline you are flying with.

Some will allow only bags up to 21”, others won’t let you carry on anything wider than 15”, and some (like Southwest) will let you carry on bags up to 24”. It varies from airline to airline, but a 21” suitcase is generally considered a carry-on almost everywhere.

What Is The Smallest Suitcase Size?

The smallest suitcase size is 18” for proper suitcases . These are mini carry-ons that work best for overnight trips because they have a very small capacity. Also, this is the standard size of suitcases for children . You can go even smaller, but then we’re not really talking about proper suitcases.

Instead, we’re talking about underseat bags. Some brands will put as much effort into these as they put into their other luggage, so you can buy a proper underseat suitcase with a multi-stage handle, spinner wheels, and two packing compartments. These mini suitcases are usually 16” or smaller.

What Happens If Carry-On Is Too Big?

If your carry-on suitcase is too big and you’re not allowed to bring it inside the cabin, you will be forced to check your bag . If your ticket allows for a checked bag and you don’t have one, you don’t need to pay an extra fee. But if your ticket doesn’t include checked luggage, you will need to pay for it.

Make a point of checking the carry-on restrictions of any airline you travel with, and you will avoid nasty surprises. It’s especially important to this if you’re flying with a local airline that uses smaller aircrafts. Smaller planes have smaller overhead bins and even standard carry-ons won’t always fit inside them.

It’s worth noting that slightly oversized carry-ons make it inside the cabin all the time. It depends on how strict the airline is with enforcing the rule, but also who’s working that particular day, and whether they’re in a good mood. As long as your carry-on is not visibly oversized (bulging, extended, etc.), you can easily sneak it onto the plane.

What Happens If Carry-On Is Too Heavy?

If your carry-on suitcase is too heavy, you will most likely be forced to check it at the gate. This will also incur a checked baggage fee, and depending on the weight of the carry-on, you might also get an overweight baggage fee. But the latter will happen only if your carry-on exceeds the maximum weight for checked bags, which is usually 50 lbs.

Considering that carry-ons have a significantly smaller capacity than checked luggage, it’s almost impossible to make them weigh more than 50 lbs.

Most airlines have a weight limit of 20 lbs for carry-on bags but be sure to double-check if this is the case with the airline you are traveling with. Some airlines don’t have any weight restrictions for carry-ons, and you could get away with a suitcase that’s entirely packed with bricks. It generally depends on the size of the aircraft – if you’re flying in a small plane, an overweight carry-on is trouble.

You can avoid all of this by simply weighing your carry-on at home and taking out any items that are making it overweight. Additionally, a few ounces or even a pound extra shouldn’t really matter – most airlines don’t even weigh carry-on luggage, unless it’s obvious that it is too heavy.

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Table of Contents

Check in luggage size chart

How to measure luggage size, how to get free checked luggage, luggage sizes recapped.

Odds are you're going to bring along some luggage with you on your next trip. This is true whether you're boarding a plane, train or automobile — but the mode you choose could impact the bags you bring, especially when taking to the skies.

Let's look at each airline's luggage size restrictions, how to measure your bags and ways to get free checked luggage on airlines. 

If you're traveling on an aircraft, where you're traveling may impact how large your bags can be. Also, international sizes aren't necessarily the same as domestic sizing requirements, so double-check your suitcase size before bringing your bags along. 

Here are the measurements for check-in luggage sizes when flying with airline carriers in the United States. 

Note that some airlines may also have different baggage policies based on where you're traveling. American Airlines, for instance, allows passengers flying to Australia or New Zealand to check bags up to 70 pounds. This is great news if you're traveling with a large suitcase.

» Learn more: Which airlines have the best (and worst) fees?

Large checked luggage sizes can be problematic, especially if traveling on a low-cost carrier like Spirit Airlines or Frontier Airlines.

To avoid oversized baggage fees, you'll want to measure any checked luggage before your flight. This includes both the size and the weight. 

Luggage scales are a cheap and effective way to get an accurate weight measurement on your suitcases. 

Measuring the size of your luggage isn't tricky. Most airlines require that your bag be 62 linear inches or less. Therefore, your bag's length, width and height cannot exceed 62 inches. This measurement includes the wheels and the handle of your luggage. 

To measure your bag, you'll want to grab a tape measure. First, lay your bag flat on the ground, then measure its height. Next, you'll want to measure how long and wide it is. 

If your bag has an expandable feature that you plan to use, be sure to expand it before you measure. 

Once you've gathered all three data points, add them together. For example, if your bag is 24 inches tall, 20 inches long and 18 inches wide, its total linear length is 62 inches. 

Note that using modern spinner bags, which include four wheels on the bottom of your suitcase, means you'll have less space within your actual bag. This is thanks to the requirement to include wheels and handles in your measurements. 

If this all sounds a little overwhelming, don't worry. Most luggage companies design their bags to fit within these standards. So if your bag isn't huge or a strange shape, the odds are that it'll fit within the dimensions required by airlines. 

» Learn more: Ways to avoid paying checked baggage fees

Want to avoid checked luggage fees? There are a few ways to do so. 

Elite status

The first way to avoid those fees is to achieve elite status with a specific airline. Often, even the lowest elite status tiers have the advantage of free checked bags. 

Active duty military and veterans can take advantage of complimentary checked bags on many airlines. 

On United Airlines, for example, Silver elite members get one free checked bag on all flights, even when flying basic economy. Even better, their baggage allowance is bumped up to 70 pounds — an additional 20 pounds over those without elite status.

» Learn more: The beginner's guide to airline elite status

Co-branded credit cards

Many airlines offer co-branded credit cards that'll give you a free checked bag on flights. This includes airlines such as:

Alaska Airlines .

American Airlines .

Delta Air Lines .

United Airlines .

These cards may charge an annual fee, but if you fly just a few times yearly, it pays for itself with free checked luggage. 

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards right now

Travel cards

Don't want to commit yourself to a single airline but still want free checked bags? A few different travel cards come with an annual airline fee credit.

This credit will reimburse you for expenses you incur while traveling, including checked luggage fees, seat assignments and lounge access. 

The Platinum Card® from American Express is one, as is the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card . 

Terms apply.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

No matter how you're traveling, it's essential to understand the size of your suitcase. After all, you don't want to be maxed out on a trip before you even depart — where would you put your souvenirs?

If you plan on hopping on a plane, look at our detailed checked luggage size chart and recommendations for avoiding checked luggage fees. 

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

An Easy Guide to Finding Your Ideal Luggage, Based on Size and Price

By Madison Flager

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

A trusted piece of luggage is the cornerstone of any good travel uniform. Sure, comfortable shoes and a sweatshirt to keep warm mid-flight are key pieces of the puzzle, but nothing ruins a journey quite like a broken handle, malfunctioning wheel, or busted zipper. Beyond a solid structure, though, there are myriad considerations to make when finding your ideal bag: How much are you willing to spend? Are you team carry-on or prefer to check ? Do you like the sleek look of a hardshell case or want the flexibility of a soft-sided piece? We used this criteria to create what we hope is a handy guide to shopping for the right luggage. Hover over the icons below for more information, and click ‘read more’ for a full review from our well-traveled team of editors and contributors.

This article is part of Condé Nast Traveler’s first-ever Luggage Week , for which dozens of suitcases, backpacks, and weekender bags were road-tested by our editors.

Browse by size:

Checked luggage

Away the bigger carry-on.

Away recently upgraded a few of its core suitcases, including The Bigger Carry-On. Updates include an additional zipper compartment, a color-matched interior made of recycled polyester, and an underside grab handle for easy overhead bin lifting. Tested by editorial assistant Jessica Chapel , who has taken it on a flight to New Mexico, a bus ride to New Jersey, and in cars on weekend trips from New York City, it's one of the lighter bags on the list at under eight pounds. Compared to her previous suitcase, “it does wonders. Prior to this luggage I often traveled with a checked bag. I can fit almost as much in this suitcase, and it's way more practical—and feels more swift, given the 360-degree wheels.”

Back to top

Béis The Carry-On Roller

With a pretty, ribbed design and thoughtful features like a cushioned silicone grip on the handle, you wouldn't guess this is one of the most affordable suitcases on our list. It's been tested by commerce producer Paris Wilson , who used it to pack for her and her boyfriend on a weeklong trip to the Florida Keys; with the help of the expandable zipper, it fit at least 14 outfits as well as four pairs of shoes and two purses. The wheels have stood up to bumpy roads—“we live in downtown Manhattan where cobblestone streets are a staple and we still managed to make it to the subway without any hangups”—and the included pouches come in handy for dirty clothes or even souvenirs. “I’m tempted to buy the remaining luggage to create a set; I would recommend this to anyone who's interested in building their luggage collection but might not know where to start.”

July Carry-On Light

July calls this the lightest double-wheel suitcase in the world, and it is the lightest we've tested here at Traveler at just under four pounds when empty. Research director Alexandra Sanidad has brought it on planes to Phoenix, Arizona, and Portland, Oregon, and on an Amtrak to Woodstock, New York; she says “it's very cute and fits nicely in tight spaces,” and is a “good price for a sturdy, colorful, functional suitcase.” As for what it fits, light packers can fit a week’s worth of clothing in here; if you’re bringing multiple day and night outfits, plan for a weekend’s worth.

Calpak Luka large duffel

Calpak's Luka duffel is one of its most popular pieces of luggage, previously racking up a 44,000-deep waiting list. The brand launched the best-selling Luka duffel in a larger version—overpackers, this one's for you. While it's a little too big to fit under an airplane seat as a personal item, it's a perfect size for trips longer than two days (think extended weekends or shorter vacations). It's made of the same soft, puffer-like material as the original version and features the same long adjustable strap, top carry handle, and hidden shoe compartment. Its got rave reviews from associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny : “Made of water-resistant material, this duffel is so soft and lightweight. No matter how much I stuff in this thing, it's not a pain to carry—the ultra-soft, long carry handles don't hurt my shoulders, and the adjustable longer strap is comfortable, too. This duffel has nine pockets, with a shoe compartment at the bottom where I keep a pair of sneakers or slippers, a mesh pocket, a side pocket for my water bottle, and plenty of smaller side pockets inside where I store small items like socks and toiletries. There's also a trolley sleeve that fits nicely on my carry-on , which is a real lifesaver while walking through the airport.”

Béis Soft-Sided Collapsible Carry-On

The designers at Béis knew what they were doing when they built this soft-sided expandable carry-on , a favorite of senior commerce editor Madison Flager . It's a big space saver for people with minimal closet or storage space, and yet still fits plenty when expanded—enough for a long weekend to five-day trips. An exterior front pocket holds a laptop sleeve, pocket to place a portable charger (and a small hole to slip the charging cord through), plus a key clip. Smooth-rolling wheels and a soft hand cushion on the underside of the handle are great touches, too.

Béis The Weekender

This weekender was Béis’s first product, and a positive indicator of where the luggage and travel accessory brand was headed. It is thoughtfully designed, from the overall look to the smart features: A trolley sleeve on the bag has a zipper on the bottom, so you can use it as an exterior pocket when you’re not traveling with a suitcase, or unzip it to secure the weekender to your luggage when needed. A second exterior pocket on the opposite side of the bag is large enough for a phone and other small essentials. It was recommended by senior commerce editor Madison Flager, who especially loves the bag's separate bottom compartment, which can be used to keep shoes or dirty or wet clothes separate.

Paravel Aviator Carry-On

Luggage brand Paravel has built a dedicated following thanks to its retro Wes Anderson–style designs and use of sustainable materials. The Aviator Carry-On is no different: Available in shades like scout tan, safari green, and scuba navy, it has a recycled polycarbonate shell, recycled zippers, and an interior lining made from 15 upcycled plastic water bottles. It's a favorite of senior editor Megan Spurrell : “This is one of two carry-on roller bags I have used regularly for nearly three years—we’ve traveled everywhere from Lisbon to Mexico City to Los Angeles together.” Spurrell has used it for weeklong trips, and notes that it's still in good shape after years of use: “It has definitely gotten scratched up from being thrown into the hull of planes (I have checked it before, even though it’s carry-on), but it has held up well otherwise—there are no cracks in the shell, zipper issues despite how much I have stuffed it, nor sticky wheels.” The one minor flaw: The top handle placement is a bit counterintuitive, placed on the side of the suitcase further from your body.

Travelpro Platinum Elite softside expandable spinner

Sometimes, you just want a trusty classic, and Travelpro, created by a former commercial airline pilot, always delivers. This expandable soft-sided bag has a telescopic handle, spinner wheels for easy gliding, and an external USB port for charging devices on the go, plus two front zip pockets to keep both important items and odds and ends close. Impressively, of its nearly 3,000 Amazon reviews, 85 percent are five-star.

Away Carry-On Flex

There's an obvious con to Away luggage—the popularity of the brand may have you chasing a stranger through baggage claim who walked away with your generic black roller, thinking it was their own—and yet, we still keep coming back to them. With 360-degree spinner wheels, the Carry-On Flex glides smoothly across almost any surface and its light yet durable shell is perfect for keeping your items safe. But the best part about the Flex, according to global associate director of audience development Lara Kramer , is the zipper expansion, which gives you an additional 2.25-inches of packing space when needed. “With the flex in use, packing for my weeklong vacation to London was a total breeze,” she says. Pick a unique color or add your favorite sticker to the outer hard shell to help your bag stand out.

Travelpro Platinum Elite rolling garment bag

While smaller than an average carry-on, garment bags really prove their worth on business trips and wedding travel. “Yes, this bag glides seamlessly through airports and is incredibly durable thanks to its nylon fabric with Duraguard coating, but the lay-flat garment bag design is the real gem of this carry-on,” global associate director of audience development Lara Kramer says. “It holds way more than you think—and arriving with all of your dresses and shirts wrinkle-free is a huge game changer.”

Thule Aion carry-on

For a rugged, take-anywhere suitcase, Thule's soft-sided spinner is a great pick. The hard-shell frame gives it some extra durability, while the soft upper, made of recycled waxed canvas, gives you plenty of leeway when packing. A front pocket lets you stash your jacket until you board the plane, while the zippered exterior pocket means your keys, wallet, and other small items can always be close by.

Briggs & Riley Essential carry-on

Senior features editor Rebecca Misner calls this suitcase “a professional travelers’ dream carry-on: very sturdy, and full of bells and whistles that actually make packing easier.” Briggs & Riley's signature expansion system allows travelers to press a button and pull up on a lever in the main compartment to expand the suitcase sides vertically. “Once you’re packed and zipped, you just push down on the exterior sides to compress.” Other notable features include mesh interior pockets, a built-in garment folder with a foam roll bar that keeps clothes from wrinkling, and unassuming SpeedThu pocket pockets on the exterior made to fit a passport and boarding pass—with a bright orange lining that signals when the pocket is open (meaning your important docs are at risk).

Victorinox Spectra 3.0 Frequent Flyer Plus carry-on

Tested by destinations editor Shannon McMahon , who prefers to travel with expandable hard-sided spinners, this one stands out for “its super roomy packing capacity and its smooth-rolling wheels.” Its become her go-to carry-on after first using it for a four-day getaway last year with room to spare (even after buying souvenirs). Smart features of the utilitarian bag include a built-in phone charger, zippered laundry compartment, oversized mesh organizational pockets, and antimicrobial lining. The exterior scratched surprisingly easily on that first trip, but beyond that it hasn't seen much damage: “It's not a fight against scratches on the outside like I thought it would be, it seems like it was just a first-use thing.” The bag's biggest pros: Its packing power and its ultra-lightweight—“it's light as a feather when empty,” McMahon says.

Amazon Basics carry-on

This hard-sided carry-on with spinner wheels and a built-in TSA lock has racked up rave reviews on Amazon, like this one: “It fit an odd amount of stuff in it. It's like a clown car. It has compartments and zippers that keep things separate and organized. It holds up well and is really good looking. It's absolutely worth every penny. I'm purchasing more for the rest of the family.” Traveler editor Meaghan Kenny agrees, calling it an overpacker's dream bag.

Calpak carry-on with front pocket

The holy grail of luggage compliments? “I actually look forward to packing this thing,” says executive editor Erin Florio . While she was worried about its size at first glance, after traveling with it, she says smart packers could pack for up to 10 days with a suitcase like this: “The inner compartments make it really easy to organize all your items, from shoes to laundry to toiletries, which helps you fit in more. This small but mighty rollaboard’s design helped me put everything in a proper spot. It made me a better packer by design.” The exterior pocket adds even more room, and can fit a laptop, hardcover books, and magazines.

Arlo Skye Zipper Carry-On Max

Arlo Skye's zipper-front suitcase goes on nearly every trip with senior editor Megan Spurrell, and it has never let her down: “I take it as a carry-on for most flights—from weekend trips to weeklong getaways—because it’s surprisingly roomy, with an organized front pocket that I can easily stow essentials like my laptop, book, and magazines in. Crucially, this bag looks sleek, but is totally durable. I’ve checked it on a few occasions, and it always survives being chucked onto the baggage carousel with little to no evidence of the journey.”

Travelpro Maxlite Air expandable carry-on

Associate social media manager Kayla Brock recommends this expandable roller for three to four day trips. “The first thing I loved about this luggage was the combination lock on the outside of the case. Whenever I traveled, I would place a small lock on my carry-on and keep the key on me, constantly paranoid that I was going to lose it. Now, I don’t have to worry about that.” Brock is also a fan of the mesh zip compartment and zip-lock compartments inside, which make organizing clothes, accessories, and toiletries simple. “Although it originally looks like my clothes wouldn’t fit (I’m guilty of overpacking), the suitcase closed with ease.”

July Carry All Weekender Plus

The best part of this weekender: the clamshell opening, which allows the bag to lie completely flat for easy packing. With a roomy 50-liter capacity and an internal padded pocket that fits a 16" laptop, you've got a good amount of space in here for an overnight stay or a two-night trip. Contributor Juliet Izon tested out this bag when we were on the hunt for the best weekenders in 2021, and was able to pack “everything I needed for a four-day trip to Asheville , North Carolina, including all the outfit changes I wanted for a weekend in the unpredictable weather of the mountains.” Its smart design, sleek look, and spacious compartments make it deserving of a spot on our list this year, too.

REI Big Haul 60 recycled duffel

Articles director Lale Arikoglu has used this duffel on safari in Kenya and a hiking trip through Chilean Patagonia. She likes that she's able to pack a lot in but still wear it as a backpack thanks to adjustable straps. “It's perfect for outdoorsy itineraries, and the ideal size for small plane requirements, which I had to navigate on both trips. Plus, it's soft-sided, which makes it easy to squeeze into the overhead bin on a crowded flight, and folds up into nothing when not in use.”

Take Off Luggage Personal Item suitcase

Take Off Luggage is for the traveler who is team carry-on, but is also tired of airlines charging them to bring a suitcase in the cabin. At first glance, TOL looks like the average hardshell carry-on. Measuring 20" x 14" x 8", a surprising amount of clothing can fit in this little suitcase—I’ve used it for a four-day trip—but it also has a secret: the 360-degree spinner wheels come off with the simple click of two buttons. This trick decreases the luggage height by two inches, allowing it to fit under most airplane seats and qualify it as a personal item, even by the strictest budget airline standards. That means you can save money and still move through the airport with ease. — Jessica Poitevien , contributor

Béis The Check-In Roller

“For the first time ever as an overpacker, I had room to spare,” says associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny , who traveled with the Béis 26” Check-In Roller on a nine-day trip to Italy this summer. A large part of that spaciousness comes from the hard-sided suitcase’s many compartments and its ability to expand an additional two inches to accommodate more volume. On one side, a U-zip flap and its two zip pockets keep contents securely packed away; the opposite side uses a detachable compression flap with another U-zip pocket and four-point compression straps to provide security and stability. There are also two more pouches—for small valuables and for dirty or wet clothing—which Kenny likens to having “built-in packing cubes.” While Béis says the suitcase can hold up to 99 pounds, it also features a weight limit indicator to ensure you don’t go over any weight limit specifications when flying.

Away The Medium

Away has become known for its minimal yet functional luggage; it’s a reliable go-to for light, spacious suitcases that get the job done. Recently, the brand released upgraded versions of several of its classic bags, including The Medium, which destinations editorial assistant Charlie Hobbs describes as a kind of bag made for “young people on the go.” After bringing The Medium on a trip to Rhode Island and Martha’s Vineyard, he confirmed it held enough clothes for a full two weeks (without doing laundry), and its four 360-degree wheels ensure the luggage is easily maneuverable. The suitcase’s interior features three mesh pockets as well as a small hanging pocket, so you’ll be able to maintain a certain level of organization—even without packing cubes. The only downside of The Medium is the highly scuffable polycarbonate hardshell. Frequent travel, particularly air travel, may result in a less-than-flawless look.

Royce and Rocket The Castle Classic

Launched last year by a mother-daughter duo, Royce & Rocket wants to change the way you unpack. “The most important feature of this suitcase is the built-in shelves—they fold down flat when not in use and can be snapped into place using built-in straps when you're ready to unpack in place,” says editorial operations manger Taylor Eisenhauer, who tested out the suitcase this fall. The second shelf is wider, and best suited for folded sweaters and pants, Eisenhauer says, while the top shelf is ideal for toiletries or smaller accessories, like jewelry or hats. “It's the most unique piece of luggage I've encountered—my friends were blown away by the shelving system,” she says. “I tend to lean toward carry-on bags because they're not as bulky and are usually better designed, but this piece makes me feel like I don't have to sacrifice form or function in order to pack everything I want on a trip.”

Calpak Ambeur large luggage

The first thing you’ll notice about the Ambeur Large Luggage from Calpak is its size: The checked bag can carry up to 112 liters. “An individual traveler could easily get away with packing a week’s worth of clothes and accessories, possibly even two travelers with the right packing skills,” says Lara Kramer , global director of audience development, social, and analytics, who also shared that the suitcase is expandable by two inches, “ensuring you can bring home those extra souvenirs.” Overpackers—or those packing for multiple travelers—will appreciate the spacious main compartments, as well as the three additional zipper compartments that Kramer says are “perfect for packing your smaller or more delicate items.” The Ambeur Large Luggage is a great option if you’re headed abroad for an extended period of time, or if you’re traveling as a family.

Herschel hardshell medium luggage

Some trips result in more luggage wear and tear than others—international flights, multiple layovers, and cross-country moves, to name a few. If you’re expecting particularly grueling journeys over the next couple of years, invest in the Herschel Heritage Hardshell Medium Luggage. Two European adventures later, the impact-resistant suitcase has “held up very well” for Kenny: Scuffs are minimal, and there were no issues with the zippers or locks. Typically, two wheels are better for navigating cobblestones and less-than-even surfaces, but she noticed that the suitcase’s four inset Hinomoto wheels “rolled easily and quietly” through both the airport and the bumpy streets of Florence .

Monos Check-In Medium

Style meets function in the 70L, four-wheeled Monos Check-in Medium, which comes in seven standard colors and as well as a selection of limited edition patterns and shades. The Aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shell pairs with the TSA–approved lock for ultimate security, and global digital director Arati Menon had no complaints about the storage space: “One half of the suitcase comes with compression straps and a covered panel with pockets—I use this section for my clothes, and put my shoes into the two pockets. The other section is covered, keeping any other shoes, toiletries, and other sundry items protected and tucked in.” There’s also the added bonus of a removable laundry bag, two shoe bags, and a vegan leather luggage tag. If you’re hunting for a reliable, does-it-all suitcase, this is the one. In Menon’s words, “it feels light, looks great, glides like a dream, and is super functional to boot.”

Peugeot Trunk

If you’re interested in a trunk, it means one thing: You’re not planning on traveling light. Hobbs was impressed with the Peugeot Voyages 29" Trunk Wheeled Trunk’s “abundant space,” which he says can hold “a month’s worth of clothing, easily.” When empty, the trunk—including its impact-resistant shell, aluminum frame, two TSA–approved combination locks, and four spinner wheels—weighs 12.3 pounds. Given its size, 50 pounds will come sooner than you think, especially since the two interior compartments (complete with tie straps and zip mesh pockets) are extra roomy. That said, the Peugeot Voyages trunk is great for travelers who have more forgiving luggage weight restrictions, those who are able to haul a heavier suitcase, or those traveling by car.

Away The Large

Away's biggest suitcase has a capacity of almost 100 liters, making it among the largest on this list. Made of the brand's classic polycarbonate shell, it comes in nearly a dozen shades, and has smooth spinner wheels, interior compression straps, and matching carry-on sizes that nest into this bag for easy storage. Like many bags of this material, it scuffs fairly easily, but can be wiped clean with a Magic Eraser or microfiber towel.

SteamLine Luggage The Diplomat Spinner

For an eye-catching, fashionable piece of luggage, you can't go wrong with Steamline's vintage-inspired design. The Diplomat is the brand's largest four-wheel trunk. It has gold hardware and tan leather straps to buckle it closed, as well as more secure latches and TSA-approved locks. Inside, there's more room than you'd expect (though not a ton of compartments). To protect the beautiful design, this bag comes with a ripstop protective sleeve for use in transit.

Paravel Aviator Grand checked luggage

Tested while we were on the hunt for the best hard-shell luggage , Paravel's Aviator Grand suitcase passed with flying colors. It's a solid, elegantly sleek, eco-friendly suitcase that's great for extended travel. Inside, it's spacious if minimalistic, with two open sides—you'll want to use packing cubes for added organization, though there are two zippered compartments on either side (one of those acts as a compression flap to secure the items underneath). We were able to pack for 10 to 14 days easily with this suitcase.

Béis Soft-Sided Collapsible Check-In Roller

Béis's collapsible luggage gives you plenty of room—in fact, this checked bag is the largest one on the list. Tested by senior commerce editor Madison Flager, it opens up like a clamshell, with two zippered compartments on one side; the water-resistant one is great for storing damp swimsuits or sweaty workout clothes on your return home. Other smart features include the U-shaped front zipper, which allows you to access one entire side of the suitcase without fully unzipping it, and a weight indicator on the handle that turns red when the bag weighs more than 50 pounds (you'll definitely want to use it—this bag is easy to overfill).

Quince Check-In suitcase

At $180, the Quince 24” Check-In Hard Shell Suitcase comes in on the more affordable end of the luggage price spectrum. However, space isn’t sacrificed for cost: “The interiors would hold 10 outfits quite easily in any season, and even more in the summer, when clothing tends to be less bulky,” says Menon. She credits this quality to the compression system on one side of the suitcase “which presses down on your clothes and magically produces extra room just when you think you’re all out of it.” If you’re familiar with more expensive suitcases, you may notice that the polycarbonate shell is relatively lightweight; before any packing occurs, the bag only weighs 8.8 pounds. Considering the price, packing capabilities, and flimsier shell of the Quince checked bag, it makes the most sense for travelers who prefer to travel with a carry-on, but still want to have a large suitcase on hand.

Rimowa Essential Check-In Medium

Senior features editor Rebecca Misner has had this Rimowa bag for a few years, and praises its size and overall quality: “I live and die by my Rimowa,” she says. “It's hands down the best suitcase I've ever used. As someone who has purchased many hard-shell rollers over the years, only to eventually replace them after wheel and handle issues (and a surprising number of punctured corners), the price is worth it for the overall quality. Rollability and ease of raising and lowering the handle are strong. It has some flex and very practical adjustable interior dividers; plus, it holds a ton–perfect for any trip longer than a weekend.”

Arlo Skye The Zipper Check-In Medium

Senior commerce editor Madison Flager is a fan of this Arlo Skye bag, which is a perfect suitcase to pair with Arlo's Zipper Carry-On if you're short on storage space (the carry-on nests inside the larger bag when it's empty). Inside, there's a large zippered compartment that's a great size for hats, bathing suits, or slim purses; the other side has two smaller zippered pockets to hold undergarments or socks. And while it's gotten a few scuffs here and there, there haven't been any nicks that a Magic Eraser couldn't undo.

Briggs & Riley Medium Expandable Spinner

This large, expandable spinner from Briggs & Riley gives you that much-needed extra room hard shell bags sometimes lack: the brand's unique expansion-compression system increases packing capacity by 17 percent (a good two inches of extra space). This suitcase also has a less pronounced dip on the bottom of the bag, as the handle sits on the exterior of the case, minimizing wrinkles in clothes packed. Another thoughtful touch: the front of the bag curves in to avoid dents or scratches. This is a solid, functional, and well-designed bag with a streamlined look we love.

Roam The Large Check-In

Former Traveler editor Meredith Carey used this suitcase when she traveled for a month and had to pack for three weddings with three distinctly different climates in mind. “Roam’s Large Check-In worked perfectly, mainly because its capacity (89 liters, unexpanded), relatively lightweight (10.6 pounds), and thin, flexible polycarbonate shell meant I could pack it to the brim without worrying about putting any baggage handler’s back out.” Inside, the compression system—two free-floating compression boards, each with a large mesh pocket—means that you can compress both sides down. The bag handled travel well, thanks to its sturdy telescopic handle and 360-degree, ball-bearing wheels—plus the grab handles on the top and side made it easy to pull off the carousel. Plus, it’s easy to spot at baggage claim since the brand's color customization means it’s highly unlikely anyone has a matching suitcase.

Rollink Flex Vega Medium Suitcase

Ideal for people with very little storage—say, an apartment in New York with limited closet space—the Rollink is very light when empty and collapses down to around two inches. It sounds too good to be true, but former Condé Nast editor Elaheh Nozari put it to the test: “The interior has polycarbonate fabric-lined walls that fold down for storing but stand up to expand the suitcase. These were very sturdy and keep the bag from feeling flimsy—when they're in use it's hard to tell that the suitcase is collapsible.” Nozari was able to fit about a week's worth of clothes inside, and notes the biggest downside is the lack of pockets or interior compartments. Also worth noting: the lack of 360 spinner wheels. “The wheels were fine and the bag is very easy to roll when full, but I prefer a suitcase with spinner wheels.” She did find it very easy to transport, and was pleasantly surprised by how nice it looked: “It has a simple and sleek look.”

July Checked

Tested by senior editor Megan Spurrell, this bag rivals pricier options on this list, and will blend in with them, too: “This July number is light, easy to lift, and a spacious interior means I can fit quite a bit inside,” Spurrell says. “It seamlessly pairs with two carry-ons I have, too—both navy blue, from Paravel and Arlo Skye—for a stylish set when I’m traveling heavy on a longer trip.” She notes that the wheels glide smoothly, particularly for a larger bag, and the solid exterior instills hope that it’ll be able to take a number of rough unloadings without any issues. Some features, like the handles spanning over 20 different heights, feel nonessential, and the interior material, while spill-resistant, are stiffer and less luxe than pricier picks. The odor-resistant laundry bag and compression pad are welcome perks, though.

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Your Travelling Mentor

Which Is The Best Size Suitcase For 1 Week Trip? – Pro Tips

Regarding travelling, one of the most important decisions to make is choosing the right size suitcase for your trip. While it may seem like a simple task, the wrong size suitcase can lead to unnecessary stress and inconvenience.

With so many options available on the market. It can be overwhelming to determine which size is best for a one-week trip. As a seasoned traveller and industry expert. Here, we will explore the best size suitcase For 1 week trip and the different factors to consider when choosing the ideal suitcase size for a one-week trip.

So before you start the packing process, read on to discover the best size suitcase for a one-week trip and make your journey a hassle-free experience.

Table of Contents

Why You Need A Suitcase For 1 Week

When you are going on a short, one-week trip, it requires that you pack your things in a suitcase and take them with you. With this suitcase , instead of lugging around luggage bags for some time, the process will be done more efficiently as well as conveniently.

By taking such action ( luggage ), not only is it easier on your back all those miles, but it also ensures that there isn’t any excess baggage coming by, which can cause a huge mess.

Best Size Suitcase For 1 Week Trip – A Complet Guide

Regarding choosing the best size suitcase for a one-week trip, there are a few factors to consider. The overall length of your trip and your packing style will play a role in determining the right size suitcase for you. However,  the medium-sized suitcase that is between 60x40x25 cm and 70x50x30 cm.

This size provides enough space to comfortably pack clothing, toiletries, and other essentials without being overly bulky or heavy. Additionally, choosing a suitcase with expandable features can offer added flexibility in case you need extra room for souvenirs or other items on your return journey.

Ultimately, selecting the best-size suitcase for your one-week trip will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Here are some of the best size suitcases For 1 week trip.

CHESTER 26″ Spinner – Classic Design

When planning your next trip , choose the CHESTER 26″ Spinner suitcase . It is designed with a classic look that will stand out among the crowd. The spinner wheels make it easy to move around, and the multiple compartments make packing easy.

Plus, it’s perfect if you want convenience and style when travelling. So, whether you head on a short or long trip , the CHESTER 26″ Spinner suitcase is a perfect choice.

Samsonite Omni 24″ Spinner – The Most Lightweight

Are you planning a one-week trip ? The Samsonite Omni 24″ Spinner is the perfect suitcase for you! It’s lightweight and small, making it easy to carry around. Plus, it comes with two compartments – one large and one small. This means that you can easily organize everything you need for your trip .

It also comes with a rain cover, protecting your belongings from precipitation. If you’re looking for the best- size suitcase for a one-week trip , the Samsonite Omni 24″ Spinner is the perfect option.

Coolife Luggage Expandable 24″ Spinner – Best Rated

Planning a trip and packing for it can be daunting, but it’s easier with the help of a good- sized hardshell suitcase . The Coolife Luggage Expandable 24″ Spinner is perfect for packing for a one-week trip . It’s spacious and can be expanded up to 24 linear inches in diameter, making it perfect for carrying lots of clothes and other items .

Additionally, the nylon fabric is resistant to wrinkles, and the Built-in wheels make it easy to move around while packing and unpacking. So, if you’re looking for the best- size suitcase for a one-week trip , the Coolife luggage sizes Expandable 24″ Spinner is the perfect option.

Luggage Packing Tips For One Week Trip

When it comes to choosing the best size suitcase for a one-week trip, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to take into account the length of your trip and the type of activities you’ll be engaging in.

If you’re planning on packing mostly clothing and essentials, a carry-on suitcase may be sufficient. Here are some luggage packing tips for a one-week trip:

• Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space.
• Use travel-sized toiletries or transfer them into smaller containers.
• Utilize packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space and organize your belongings.
• Consider wearing your bulkiest items, such as jackets or boots, while travelling to free up space in your suitcase.
• Pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits.
• Don’t forget essentials like chargers, medication, and travel documents.

By following these tips and carefully selecting the right size suitcase for your needs. You can ensure a stress-free and organized packing experience for your one-week trip.

Make Sure To Estimate The -8i

The weight of your belongings is an important factor to consider when moving or traveling. It is crucial to know the weight of your belongings so that you can plan and pack accordingly.

Whether you are moving to a new home or going on a trip, knowing the weight of your belongings can help you determine the size and number of boxes you will need. As well as any additional fees you may incur for exceeding weight limits.

Luggage Packing Tips For Longer Trip

When planning for a one-week trip, choosing the right size suitcase is essential to ensure that you have enough space for all your belongings. A medium-sized suitcase with dimensions of around 24-28 inches is usually sufficient for a one-week trip. Here are some luggage packing tips to help maximize space and keep your belongings organized:

• Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and prevent wrinkles.
• Use packing cubes or compression bags to compress bulky items like sweaters or jackets.
• Place heavier items at the bottom of the suitcase to distribute weight evenly.
• Utilize the inside pockets and compartments of your larger quality suitcase for smaller items like socks, underwear, and toiletries.
• Pack versatile clothing pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits.
• Don’t forget essentials like chargers, travel documents, and a small first aid kit.

By following these tips, you can make the most out of your suitcase’s capacity and ensure that you have everything you need for your one-week trip.

Finding the perfect suitcase best size suitcase For 1 week trip is essential to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience. After considering factors such as your destination, weather conditions, and personal packing preferences, you can determine the ideal suitcase size that will comfortably fit all your belongings.

Whether you opt for a carry-on or checked luggage , remember to prioritize functionality, durability, and convenience. By selecting the best-size suitcase for your one-week trip, you can pack efficiently and effortlessly navigate through airports and other transportation hubs.

We’ve discussed the size of the suitcase for 1-week trip. So start planning your next adventure, and make sure to choose the right suitcase to accompany you on your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size suitcase for a 7-day trip.

For a 7-day trip, a medium-sized suitcase with a capacity of around 50-70 litres should be sufficient. This size allows you to pack enough clothes, toiletries, and other essentials without being too bulky or heavy.

How Much Luggage Do I Need For 1 Week?

The amount size of luggage needed for a one-week trip depends on various factors such as the destination, type of activities planned, and personal preferences. However, as a general guideline, a small to medium-sized suitcase or backpack should be sufficient for most individuals.

What Is The Best Size Bag For A Week’s Trip?

The best-sized bag for a week’s trip would be a medium-sized suitcase or a backpack with a capacity of around 40 to 50 litres. This size is typically spacious enough to accommodate enough clothes, toiletries, and other essential items for a week while still being manageable to carry or roll around.

What Size Suitcase Is Good For 10 Days?

A medium-sized suitcase, typically around 24-28 inches, is usually sufficient for a 10-day trip. This size allows for enough space to pack clothes, toiletries, and other essential items without being too bulky or heavy.

What Size Luggage Is Good For 5 Days?

A medium-sized suitcase or a 22-24 inch rolling luggage would be suitable for a 5-day trip. It provides enough space to pack clothes, toiletries, and other essentials comfortably while staying manageable and easily portable.

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• Travel Tips

What Size Luggage For A Week Trip

Published: December 1, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Oralle Grimsley

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Essentials & Accessories

Introduction

Planning a week trip can be an exciting adventure filled with anticipation and wanderlust. Whether you’re heading to a bustling city, a tranquil beach resort, or exploring the picturesque countryside, one important aspect to consider is the size of your luggage. Choosing the right size luggage for your week trip can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Before diving into the various options available, it’s essential to understand what factors to consider when selecting luggage for a week-long journey. The duration of your trip, the type of activities you’ll be engaging in, and the airline’s baggage restrictions are key elements to take into account. By keeping these factors in mind, you can make an informed decision on whether to opt for carry-on luggage or checked luggage.

In this article, we will explore the factors to consider when choosing luggage for a week trip, the different options available for both carry-on and checked luggage, tips on choosing the right size for your needs, and essential packing tips to make the most of your week-long adventure. So let’s get started and embark on a journey to find the perfect luggage for your upcoming week trip!

Factors to Consider When Choosing Luggage for a Week Trip

When selecting luggage for a week-long trip, there are several crucial factors to consider. Taking the time to think through these aspects will help you choose the most suitable luggage that meets your needs and ensures a comfortable journey:

1. Duration of the Trip: The length of your trip plays a significant role in determining the size of your luggage. For a week trip, a larger suitcase might be necessary to accommodate all your clothes, accessories, and essentials.

2. Type of Activities: Consider the activities and events you’ll be participating in during your trip. If your itinerary involves formal dinners or business meetings, a suitcase with compartments for keeping delicate items organized and wrinkle-free would be wise. If you’re planning more outdoor adventures, a durable and weather-resistant backpack might be a better option.

3. Airline Baggage Restrictions: Familiarize yourself with the baggage allowance and restrictions of the airline you’ll be traveling with. Some airlines have specific size and weight limitations for both carry-on and checked luggage. Ensure that your chosen luggage meets these requirements to avoid any additional fees or complications at the airport.

4. Personal Preferences: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to luggage. Some may prefer the convenience of carrying a compact, lightweight carry-on suitcase, while others may find a larger checked bag more suitable for their needs. Consider your own comfort, mobility, and convenience when making a decision.

5. Storage Space: Evaluate your storage options both at home and at your destination. If you have limited storage space or will be staying in small accommodations, a smaller or more collapsible suitcase might be preferable.

6. Budget: Lastly, consider your budget when selecting luggage. While it’s important to invest in quality and durable luggage, it’s also essential to find options within your price range. Research different brands, compare prices, and read reviews to find the best value for your money.

By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose the luggage that best aligns with your needs and preferences. Next, let’s delve into the different options available for both carry-on and checked luggage for your week trip.

Carry-On Luggage Options

Carry-on luggage is a popular choice for travelers who prefer to have their belongings with them during the entire journey. It offers convenience, flexibility, and eliminates the worry of lost or delayed luggage. Here are a few options to consider when selecting carry-on luggage for your week trip:

1. Rolling Suitcase: A rolling suitcase is a classic choice for carry-on luggage. Look for a compact size that meets the airline’s carry-on restrictions. Opt for one with sturdy wheels and a retractable handle for easy maneuverability through airports and crowded spaces.

2. Travel Backpack: A travel backpack is a versatile and hands-free option for carry-on luggage. Look for one with multiple compartments, a padded laptop sleeve, and adjustable straps for added comfort. Some backpacks even come with detachable daypacks, providing extra storage space for day trips or excursions.

3. Duffel Bag: A duffel bag is a lightweight and spacious carry-on option. Look for one with durable material and multiple compartments for organized packing. Some duffel bags even come with wheels and a retractable handle, combining the benefits of a rolling suitcase and a duffel bag.

4. Garment Bag: If you need to bring formal attire or outfits that need to stay wrinkle-free, a garment bag might be the perfect carry-on option for you. Look for a garment bag with multiple compartments and secure hooks to hang your clothes.

5. Underseat Bag: An underseat bag is a compact and convenient option that fits underneath the seat in front of you on the airplane. It’s perfect for travelers who want quick and easy access to their belongings during the flight. Look for one with multiple pockets and compartments for efficient organization.

Remember to check the airline’s specific guidelines regarding carry-on luggage dimensions and weight restrictions before making your final decision. Different airlines may have varying limits, so it’s crucial to ensure your chosen carry-on luggage meets their requirements.

Now that we’ve explored carry-on luggage options, let’s move on to the options available for checked luggage for your week trip.

Checked Luggage Options

Checked luggage is ideal for travelers who prefer to pack more items or have bulkier belongings for their week trip. While it is stowed in the airplane’s cargo hold, checked luggage offers ample space and allows for a wide range of items to be packed. Here are some options to consider when selecting checked luggage for your week trip:

1. Hardshell Suitcase: A hardshell suitcase provides maximum protection for your belongings. Look for one with durable materials such as polycarbonate or aluminum, and consider features like built-in locks and sturdy wheels for easy maneuverability.

2. Softside Suitcase: A softside suitcase offers flexibility and expandability. It is often lighter and more forgiving in terms of fitting into tight spaces. Look for one with multiple compartments and external pockets for efficient organization.

3. Expandable Suitcase: An expandable suitcase is a great option for those who want the flexibility to increase their luggage capacity if needed. These suitcases typically have a zipper that allows you to expand the depth of the bag, providing extra packing space.

4. Spinner Luggage: Spinner luggage features four multi-directional wheels that allow for effortless movement and 360-degree rotation. This makes it easier to navigate crowded airports or maneuver through narrow spaces. Look for a spinner suitcase with a sturdy handle and a reliable locking system.

5. Luggage Sets: If you frequently travel for extended periods or with multiple family members, investing in a luggage set might be the best option. These sets often include a combination of carry-on and checked luggage, ensuring compatibility and uniformity in design.

6. Specialty Bags: For specific needs, such as ski trips or golf vacations, there are specialty bags available. Ski bags have compartments for skis, boots, and other equipment. Golf bags are designed to protect and transport golf clubs securely. Consider these options if you have any specialized equipment for your week trip.

When choosing checked luggage, pay attention to size restrictions imposed by different airlines. Ensure that the luggage you select complies with their specific guidelines to avoid any additional fees or complications at the airport.

Now that we’ve explored carry-on and checked luggage options, let’s move on to determining the right size luggage for your week trip.

Choosing the Right Size for Your Week Trip

Choosing the right size luggage for your week trip is crucial to ensure that you have enough space for all your belongings, while still adhering to airline restrictions. Here are some tips to help you determine the appropriate size for your luggage:

1. Check Airline Restrictions: Start by checking the specific baggage restrictions of the airline you’ll be traveling with. Note the maximum dimensions and weight allowed for both carry-on and checked luggage. This will give you a guideline to follow when selecting the size of your luggage.

2. Estimate your Clothing and Item Needs: Consider the number of outfits you’ll need for a week, keeping in mind any special occasions or activities you have planned. Factor in items like shoes, toiletries, and accessories as well. This will give you an idea of the overall volume of your luggage requirements.

3. Evaluate Your Packing Style: Are you someone who prefers to pack light and efficiently, or do you like to have extra options while traveling? Understanding your packing style will help you determine if a smaller, more compact suitcase will suffice, or if a larger bag is necessary to accommodate your belongings.

4. Consider Expandability Features: If you anticipate that you may need additional space during your trip, consider opting for a suitcase with expandable features. This will allow you to adjust the volume of your luggage as needed, providing flexibility without sacrificing weight restrictions.

5. Balance Size and Maneuverability: While it may be tempting to choose the largest suitcase available, keep in mind that bigger isn’t always better. Consider the ease of maneuvering your luggage, both when navigating through airports and when storing it at your accommodations. Opt for a size that strikes a balance between capacity and convenience.

6. Pack Efficiently: Regardless of the size of your luggage, efficient packing techniques can maximize space. Utilize packing cubes, roll clothing items, and make use of every available nook and cranny. This will help you make the most of the size of luggage you choose.

By considering these factors and tips, you can select the right size luggage for your week trip that meets your needs, adheres to airline restrictions, and allows for efficient packing. Next, let’s explore some essential packing tips to make the most out of your week-long adventure.

Packing Tips for a Week Trip

Efficient and organized packing can make your week trip more enjoyable and stress-free. Here are some essential packing tips to help you make the most out of your luggage space:

1. Make a Packing List: Before you start packing, create a detailed packing list. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t forget any essential items.

2. Choose Versatile Clothing: Opt for clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched. Select versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down and coordinate well with other items in your suitcase.

3. Roll Your Clothes: Rolling your clothes instead of folding them not only saves space but also minimizes wrinkles. Roll each item tightly and pack them tightly to maximize space in your suitcase.

4. Use Packing Cubes: Packing cubes can help you stay organized and keep items separate. Use them to group clothing items by category or outfit, making it easier to locate specific items without unpacking everything.

5. Pack Travel-Size Toiletries: To save space and comply with airline regulations, transfer your favorite toiletries into travel-size bottles. Alternatively, you can purchase travel-size versions of your preferred products.

6. Utilize Empty Spaces: Use empty spaces in your luggage creatively. Stuff socks inside shoes, and fill any gaps with smaller items like belts or accessories. This helps to maximize space and keep items from shifting during travel.

7. Wear Bulky Items: If you have bulky items like jackets or boots, wear them during your travel instead of packing them. This frees up valuable space in your luggage and keeps you warm and comfortable on the plane.

8. Pack a Foldable Bag: Bring a foldable bag or small duffel bag for any potential shopping or extra items you may acquire during your trip. This prevents the need to purchase additional bags and ensures you have room for souvenirs.

9. Keep Essentials On-Hand: Pack important documents, medication, chargers, and a change of clothes in your carry-on bag. This way, even if your checked luggage is delayed or lost, you’ll have the essentials to get by.

10. Consider Laundry Options: If you’re planning a longer trip, look into laundry facilities or services at your destination. This allows you to pack fewer clothes and do laundry during your trip, minimizing the amount of luggage needed.

Choosing the right size luggage for a week trip is essential for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. By considering factors such as trip duration, activities planned, airline restrictions, personal preferences, storage space, and budget, you can select the most suitable luggage for your needs.

Carry-on luggage options like rolling suitcases, travel backpacks, duffel bags, garment bags, and underseat bags offer convenience and flexibility, allowing you to keep your belongings with you throughout the journey. On the other hand, checked luggage options like hardshell or softside suitcases, expandable bags, spinner luggage, and luggage sets provide ample space for those who require more storage.

To choose the right size luggage, check airline restrictions, estimate your clothing and item needs, evaluate your packing style, consider expandability features, and balance size and maneuverability. Efficient packing techniques like making a packing list, rolling clothes, utilizing packing cubes, and using empty spaces can help you maximize your luggage capacity.

Remember to pack versatile clothing, travel-size toiletries, and utilize wearables for bulky items. Keep essentials in your carry-on and consider laundry options for longer trips. By following these packing tips, you can optimize your luggage space and ensure a stress-free trip.

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge on choosing the right size luggage and packing efficiently, it’s time to embark on your week trip with confidence and excitement. Enjoy your journey and make unforgettable memories! Safe travels!

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What Size Luggage For 1 Week Trip?

If you’re anything like me, you hate packing for a trip. You always end up bringing too much or too little, and it’s just a pain. But don’t worry, I’m here to help. Based on the information below, a medium-sized suitcase is what you’ll need for a week-long trip. It’s big enough to hold everything you need, but not so big that it’s a pain to carry around. So pack your bags and enjoy your trip!

So, What size luggage for 1 week trip?

Medium-sized check-in luggage is the best size for a week-long getaway. It measures 25-26” tall and around 18” wide and can hold everything you need for a week away.

Let’s dig into it and see what’s inside.

What Size Bag Do I Need For A 7 Day Trip?

When it comes to deciding what size bag you need for a 7 day trip, it really depends on a few factors. First, consider how much stuff you generally pack for a weekend getaway – this will give you a good idea of how much space you’ll need. If you find that you need a little more room for a longer trip, then consider bags in the 50-75 liter range. These usually have enough space for everything you’ll need, without being too bulky or difficult to carry around.

How Big Should A Suitcase Be For 10 Days?

This is a great question and one that we get asked a lot! The answer really depends on a few factors such as where you are going, what you are doing and what kind of clothes you need to take with you. For instance, if you are going on a beach vacation then you probably won’t need as many clothes as if you were going on a business trip.

As a general rule of thumb, we recommend that you choose a suitcase that is big enough to fit everything you need but not so big that it is difficult to carry or maneuver. A good rule of thumb is to choose a suitcase that is about half the size of your bed. So, if you have a queen size bed, then a medium sized suitcase would be a good choice.

Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule and there are some people who simply prefer to travel with a larger suitcase. If this is the case, then we recommend that you choose one that is no larger than 62 linear inches. This is the largest size that most airlines will allow as carry-on luggage.

So, to sum it up, the answer to the question “how big should a suitcase be for 10 days?” really depends on a few factors. Use your best judgment and choose a size that is comfortable for you to carry and that will fit everything you need.

How Do I Pack A Carry-On Bag For 7 Days?

Assuming you will be flying and need to pack a carry-on bag for a seven-day trip, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

First, make sure to pack light! A good rule of thumb is to only bring what you can comfortably carry and fit in one bag. This means packing versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched, and ditching any unnecessary items.

Second, consider what you will need for each day and plan accordingly. Make a list of everything you need to bring, and then edit it down to the essentials. For example, you will need enough clothing for each day, toiletries, your passport and other travel documents, any medications you take, and any electronics you need.

Third, make use of packing hacks to maximize space and keep your belongings organized. For example, rolling your clothes instead of folding them can help save space. You can also use packing cubes or Ziploc bags to keep everything organized and in one place.

Finally, remember that you can always buy things you need once you arrive at your destination. So if you forget something, don’t stress!

What Size Luggage Is Best For Traveling?

When it comes to packing for a trip, one of the most important things to consider is the size of your luggage. After all, you don’t want to be lugging around a massive suitcase that’s too big to fit in the overhead compartment on an airplane. So what size should your travel suitcase be?

Ideally, we recommend that it measures 22” x 9” x 14” or less. This is small enough to fit into the overhead compartments on most airlines, yet it’s still large enough to hold all of your essentials. Plus, it’s easy to carry around and maneuver through busy airports and train stations.

If you’re traveling with a larger group, you may need to check your luggage, in which case you’ll want to make sure it’s not too big or too heavy. Most airlines have size and weight restrictions for checked luggage, so be sure to check those before you pack.

In general, it’s always best to travel light. Not only will it be easier on your body, but you’ll also have more flexibility and freedom when you’re not weighed down by a heavy suitcase. So next time you’re packing for a trip, remember to keep the size of your luggage in mind.

Furthermore, When packing for a trip, it is best to use a suitcase that is 22” x 9” x 14” or smaller. This size will fit in the overhead compartments on most airlines.

What Is The Largest Size Suitcase That Can Be Checked On An Airplane?

This is a common question that travelers have when packing for a trip. The answer may vary depending on the airline, but the general rule is that you can check one bag that is no larger than 62 linear inches. That means the length, width, and depth of the bag combined should be no more than 62 inches. Some airlines may have a slightly smaller limit, so it’s always best to check with your airline before packing your bag.

What Is The Largest Luggage Size For Check-In?

The standard bag size for checked luggage is 62 linear inches. This is the total of the length, width, and height of the bag. Anything larger than this will need to be checked as oversized luggage.

What Are The Dimensions Of A 32 Inch Suitcase?

This is a question that we get a lot at the luggage store. And it’s a good question! After all, you don’t want to be caught at the airport with a suitcase that’s too big or too small. So, here’s a quick rundown of the dimensions of a 32 inch suitcase:

Length: 32 inches

Width: 14 inches

Height: 11 inches

Weight: 8.5 pounds

Now that you know the dimensions of a 32 inch suitcase, you can be sure that your luggage will be the right size for your next trip.

What Size Suitcase Do I Need For 10 Days?

This is a great question and one that we get asked a lot! The answer really depends on a few factors, such as where you’re going, what you’re doing, and how much stuff you need to bring with you.

If you’re going on a beach vacation, for example, you’ll probably need a larger suitcase than if you’re going on a business trip. And if you’re going to be doing a lot of activities that require different outfits (like hiking, swimming, and sightseeing), you’ll need to pack more clothes than if you’re just going to be relaxing at a resort.

Here are a few general tips to help you figure out what size suitcase you need:

-If you’re going on a short trip (3 days or less), you can probably get away with a carry-on bag. -If you’re going on a longer trip (4 days or more), you’ll need a larger suitcase. -If you’re going to be doing a lot of activities that require different outfits, you’ll need a larger suitcase. -If you’re going to be carrying a lot of stuff with you, you’ll need a larger suitcase.

So, to answer the question, it really depends on your individual trip and needs. But we hope that these tips will help you figure out what size suitcase you need for your next adventure!

What Size Luggage Is Best For 2 Weeks In Europe?

When it comes to packing for a trip to Europe, the question of luggage size is one that often comes up. For many travelers, the biggest concern is fitting everything into one bag, but for others, the bigger question is how to avoid paying extra baggage fees.

The answer, of course, depends on your individual travel style. If you’re the type of traveler who likes to pack light, then a carry-on bag should be sufficient. On the other hand, if you prefer to travel with all of your creature comforts, then a larger piece of luggage may be necessary.

In general, we recommend packing a carry-on bag and a personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag. This will give you the flexibility to pack what you need without having to worry about paying extra for baggage.

If you’re still not sure what size luggage is best for your trip, consider these factors:

-The type of trip you’re taking: If you’re planning a longer trip or one that includes a lot of outdoor activities, then you’ll need to pack more clothes and gear. On the other hand, if you’re taking a shorter trip or one that is primarily focused on city sightseeing, you can get away with packing less.

-The time of year: If you’re traveling during the summer, you’ll need to pack lighter clothes. During the winter, you’ll need to pack heavier clothes.

-Your travel companions: If you’re traveling with family or friends, you may be able to share items like a hairdryer or an extra pair of shoes.

-The airline you’re flying: Some airlines have stricter carry-on luggage restrictions than others. Be sure to check the airline’s website before you pack.

Finally, don’t forget to leave some room in your luggage for souvenirs!

What Are The Dimensions Of A Standard Suitcase Size For Airlines?

This is a question that often plagues travelers, as there are a variety of suitcase sizes that are considered ‘standard.’ The most important thing to remember is that each airline has different requirements, so it’s always best to check with your carrier before packing your bags.

Generally speaking, the average suitcase size for airlines is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches. However, there are a few airlines that have larger size requirements, so it’s always best to check before you pack. For example, Southwest Airlines has a baggage size limit of 24 inches x 16 inches x 10 inches.

If you’re planning on packing a lot of items in your suitcase, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and choose a larger size. After all, you don’t want your belongings to be crammed into a too-small suitcase!

What Is The 20Kg Suitcase Size Limit?

The 20kg suitcase size limit is a limit imposed by many airlines on the maximum weight of a suitcase that can be carried on an aircraft. This limit is usually 20 kilograms, but may vary depending on the airline. Many airlines also have size restrictions on luggage, so it is important to check with your airline before packing your suitcase.

If you are planning to travel with a lot of luggage, it is important to make sure that your suitcase is not too heavy or too large. Otherwise, you may have to pay extra fees or even be denied boarding. To avoid this, it is best to pack light and only bring what you need.

When packing your suitcase, it is important to weigh it before you leave for the airport. This way, you will know if you need to rearrange your items or take anything out. It is also a good idea to pack an extra change of clothes in your carry-on luggage in case your suitcase gets lost or delayed.

If you are traveling with a lot of luggage, it is important to be organized. This means packing your items in a way that makes sense and using all of the space in your suitcase. For example, you may want to put all of your heavy items at the bottom of your suitcase and lighter items on top.

Packing efficiently will help you to avoid having to pay extra fees or being denied boarding. It will also make it easier to find things in your suitcase when you need them. So, take some time to plan your packing and make sure that you are only bringing what you need.

What Size Suitcase Do I Need For 4 Days?

Assuming you’re going on a trip that requires flying, the answer to this question really depends on a few factors. First, you’ll need to consider what kind of clothes you’ll be packing. If you’re planning on bringing mostly casual clothes, you can probably get away with packing everything in a carry-on bag. However, if you’re packing nicer clothes or shoes, you might need a larger suitcase to make sure everything fits.

You’ll also need to consider what kind of activities you’ll be doing on your trip. If you’re just sightseeing or staying in a hotel, you won’t need to pack much beyond the basics. However, if you’re planning on doing any hiking or other outdoor activities, you’ll need to make sure you have enough space to pack all the gear you’ll need.

Finally, you’ll need to consider the weather. If you’re traveling to a warm climate, you won’t need to pack as many clothes as you would for a cold climate. However, if you’re traveling to a place with unpredictable weather, you might want to err on the side of packing a bit more.

With all that being said, a good general rule of thumb is that you can usually get away with packing everything you need for a four-day trip in a carry-on bag. However, if you’re packing heavier items or planning on doing a lot of activities, you might need a larger suitcase.

What Is The Best Size Suitcase For 1 Week Trip?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, such as where you are going, what you are packing and how much you are bringing with you. However, as a general rule of thumb, a medium-sized suitcase is usually the best option for a one-week trip. This will give you enough space to pack everything you need without being too bulky or difficult to carry.

How To Measure Suitcase Sizes?

When it comes to packing for a trip, one of the most important things to consider is the size of your suitcase. After all, you don’t want to be lugging around a huge suitcase if you’re only going to be gone for a few days. But at the same time, you don’t want to be caught short with a too-small suitcase when you’re trying to pack for a longer trip. So how do you know what size suitcase to choose?

There are a few things to keep in mind when measuring suitcase sizes. First, consider the type of trip you’re taking. If you’re going on a short weekend getaway, you probably won’t need a very large suitcase. But if you’re taking a longer trip or going somewhere with a lot of activities planned, you’ll want to make sure you have enough space for all your belongings.

Another thing to keep in mind is the type of transportation you’ll be using. If you’re flying, you’ll need to make sure your suitcase fits within the airline’s size restrictions. And if you’re driving, you’ll need to make sure your suitcase can fit in the trunk of your car.

Once you’ve considered the type of trip you’re taking and the type of transportation you’ll be using, you’re ready to start measuring suitcase sizes. The first thing you’ll need to do is measure the length, width, and height of your suitcase. To do this, simply use a tape measure to get the dimensions of your suitcase.

Once you have the dimensions of your suitcase, you’ll need to decide what type of suitcase you want. There are two main types of suitcases – hard-sided and soft-sided. Hard-sided suitcases are generally more durable and offer more protection for your belongings, but they can be more difficult to pack. Soft-sided suitcases are more flexible and often have more pockets and compartments, making them easier to pack.

Once you’ve decided on the type of suitcase you want, you’re ready to start shopping! When you’re looking at different suitcases, pay attention to the size measurements. Most suitcases will list their dimensions in inches, so be sure to convert the measurements to centimeters so you can compare them easily.

When you’ve found a few suitcases that you like, it’s time to take them for a test run. Before you buy a suitcase, make sure you can actually fit everything you need inside of it. Try packing it with your clothes, shoes, toiletries, and any other items you’ll need for your trip. If you can’t fit everything in, it’s probably not the right size for you.

Now that you know how to measure suitcase sizes, you’re ready to start packing for your next trip! Just remember to keep the type of trip you’re taking and the type of transportation you’ll be using in mind, and you’ll be sure to choose the right size suitcase for your needs.

How To Determine The Right Size Luggage, Pack Or Bag?

No matter how often you travel, it’s always a challenge to determine the right size luggage, pack or bag.

There are a few key factors to consider when trying to figure out what size is right for you. First, think about the type of trip you’re taking. Will you be gone for a weekend or a week? Are you flying or driving? These factors will help you determine the size and type of luggage you need.

Another thing to consider is what you’ll be bringing with you. If you’re traveling for business, you’ll likely need to bring a suit or dress clothes. If you’re going on a beach vacation, you’ll need room for swimsuits, sunscreen and other items. Make a list of everything you plan to bring so you can determine the right size luggage.

Once you’ve considered the type of trip and what you’ll be bringing, you can start to narrow down your options. If you’re flying, you’ll need to adhere to the airlines’ size restrictions. For instance, most airlines have a maximum size for carry-on luggage and checked luggage. If you’re driving, you’ll have more flexibility in terms of size, but you’ll still want to consider the amount of space you have in your vehicle.

Once you’ve determined the size of luggage you need, it’s time to start shopping. There are a variety of luggage options available, from carry-on bags to larger suitcases. You can also find a variety of travel packs and bags designed for specific types of trips. For example, there are travel packs that are perfect for carrying on a plane or packs that are designed for road trips.

When you’re choosing luggage, it’s important to find something that’s durable and easy to carry. You’ll also want to consider the features that are important to you. For instance, some luggage comes with built-in scales so you can avoid overweight baggage fees. Other luggage options include compartments and pockets that can help you stay organized on your trip.

Once you’ve found the perfect luggage, it’s time to start packing. Be sure to pack your heavier items first so they’re at the bottom of the bag. This will help prevent your luggage from becoming too heavy to lift. You should also try to evenly distribute the weight throughout the bag so it’s easier to carry.

When you’re packing your luggage, be sure to leave room for any souvenirs you plan to bring home. You should also leave some empty space in your luggage so you can easily pack and unpack your belongings.

By following these tips, you can determine the right size luggage, pack or bag for your next trip.

How Can I Contact Away Luggage Customer Service?

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your Away luggage, their customer service team can be reached through the following channels:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 888-692-2929

Live chat: Away offers live chat support on their website

Social media: Away is active on various social media platforms, and can be reached through direct messaging

In-person: If you are in the New York City area, you can visit Away’s flagship store

A medium-sized suitcase is the perfect size for a week-long trip. It’s large enough to hold all of your belongings, but not so large that it’s cumbersome to carry. Plus, it’s the perfect size for most airlines’ carry-on luggage restrictions.

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1-Week Packing List for a Carry-on: Travel Lighter Today

Traveling with carry-on luggage only. Some love it. Some claim it can’t be done. Use this 1-week packing list for a carry-on and you’ll have everything you need to pack light every time.

I’m convinced that traveling carry-on-only is the best way to travel. But packing is not an exact science and a lot will come down to personal preference and travel style. I personally think it’s also a good option for a business trip or any other shorter trip.

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  See disclaimer.

Organize your travel light packing list

Packing light requires discipline and organization, but it’s worth it. To keep yourself as organized as possible, break down your week-long trip packing list into four sections:  

• What you’re going to wear on the plane 
• Your personal item (small travel backpack, etc.) that goes under your seat  
• What’s going in your carry-on bag 
• Liquids bag (which must follow the TSA 3-1-1 guidelines )

Packing toiletries and liquids for carry-on-only travel is not a small topic.  

Make sure you read my complete guide to packing toiletries for a carry-on bag for more information and a detailed packing list. 

TIP: Keep track of your packing list with this editable travel packing list spreadsheet . Prefer pencil and paper? Grab the printable blank packing lists .

What to pack for a week-long trip: travel packing checklist

What to wear on the plane.

To save yourself as much space and weight in your carry-on as possible, plan to wear your heaviest and bulkiest clothing on your flight . For example, I like to dress in layers since sometimes on planes I get quite cold and sometimes I get too hot. The same goes for me at airports. 

So, for me it works out great to wear as much of my packing weight as I can in layers I can easily remove or put back on as needed to keep myself comfortable when I fly .

I usually wear the only pair of jeans that I take on my trip (jeans are heavy!), my heaviest shoes, a short-sleeved T-shirt, a cardigan (again, heavy!) and the warmest (and heaviest) jacket I will need on my trip.  

Traveling to a cold-weather destination can complicate packing a bit. But even then, I would absolutely wear my heaviest shoes and coat on the plane.

This is my flight “uniform”

• Dark, comfortable jeans 
• Black short sleeve T-shirt 
• Grey cardigan 
• Comfortable shoes

These are my favorite slip-ons for travel .    If I’m planning hiking or other outdoor activities, I’ll wear my heavy shoes so they’re not taking up weight in my carry-on bag. I love these waterproof hiking shoes .

What to pack in your personal item

This can vary by trip, but I frequently travel with my anti-theft crossbody purse inside a larger bag ( like this basic backpack ) that still complies with the airline’s personal item regulations and fits easily under the seat in front of me. 

✅ This is my favorite anti-theft crossbody travel purse . I never travel without it! 

Some airlines’ carry-on weight limits include the personal item. When that happens, I take my crossbody only as my personal item and bring the backpack empty in my carry-on suitcase (to use as a day pack) or leave it at home. 

Electronics 

• Portable charger —pack a small portable charger like this one to make sure your phone never dies. 
• Tablet with charger —a tablet is great to bring along for reading e-books, watching movies, etc.  
• Headphones or earbuds —good quality earbuds take up little space. They’re great to have on the plane, and then you can use them for audio tours on your trip as well. 
• Phone —Don’t forget your phone! If you have a phone with a good quality camera, like this one , you won‘t need to pack a separate (potentially heavy and bulky) camera. 
• Outlet adapter —make sure you know what kinds of plugs they have at your destination. Outlet adapters like this one make it easy to plug your electronics into whatever kind of plug you’ll likely encounter. 

BUT even if you have one of these , you’ll still want to check to make sure you can use it at your destination. Don’t assume.

Comfort 

• Sleep mask —essential for me for red eye or overnight flights. I carry an old one from a business-class amenities kit. Or you can buy one like this . 
• Snacks for the plane —pack yourself some healthy snacks in case you don’t have time to stop at the airport or service on your flight is delayed/disrupted. 
• Water bottle —keeping hydrated when you fly is essential. You’ll feel so much better when you arrive at your destination if you make a point of keeping hydrated while you travel.

These and these always find their way into our carry-ons when we travel.  

• Wet wipes — these are great for many uses (including those times when your find yourself in a bathroom with no toilet paper—it happens). Don’t travel without them. 
• Travel packs of tissues make good additions to your bag.

Miscellaneous essential personal items 

Don’t forget to triple check that you have your wallet, credit cards, passport (if applicable), and photocopies of your driver’s license, medical cards, passport…any important IDs or documents. 

You’ll also want directions to your accommodations with check-in instructions (if needed). And I like to always travel with a pen and pencil.

Travel light packing list for your carry-on suitcase 

Make sure your carry-on bag is not larger than the maximum dimensions your airline allows. They do vary, so please check ahead of time . And don’t forget to weigh your bag if your airline has a weight limit for carry-on luggage. 

Below is what I recommend packing for a one-week trip.  Use this as a starting point  and adjust for longer trips, seasons, or the activities you’ll be doing. 

This list also presupposes that you’ll be at least handwashing a few personal items if not doing a load in a washing machine. If you’re going to hand wash look for fabrics that dry quickly and don’t need ironing.

Clothing  

• 2 pairs of comfortable pants. Black is easy to dress up for a night out. 
• Spare pair of shoes or sandals. (I try to avoid packing multiple pairs of shoes when I can.) 
• Lightweight outer layer like a packable rain jacket 
• Long sleeve button up shirt or blouse 
• Long sleeve T-shirt or summer weight sweater (merino wool is great) 
• Short sleeve T-shirt 
• Short-sleeve wool or cashmere sweater  
• 3 camisoles/tank tops 
• 2 sets of lightweight pajamas/sleep shirts 
• 5 pairs of underpants 
• 5 pairs of footie socks 
• 2 bras 
• Optional: 1 dress that works for both sightseeing and a dinner out.

Everything else 

• Guidebook (s) —if you prefer paper books; otherwise you can save space and weight by using e-books on your phone or tablet. These are my favorite guidebooks for Europe. These are my favorite for everywhere else.
• Non-liquid toiletries/makeup bag (see separate list below) 
• Liquids bag (see separate list below) 
• More wet wipes  
• Extra outlet adapters 
• Spare tablet and/or phone charging cables 
• Luggage scale —if traveling on an airline with a weight limit for carry-on baggage. This one weighs only 2 ounces , so it won’t add much to your overall weight.
• Bag(s) —to keep dirty shoes or clothes separate from any clean clothing on the trip home. This could be simple lightweight laundry bags or even just plastic shopping bags. 
• A few plastic storage bags of various sizes (just in case) 
• Printed copies of any needed documents such as tickets for sites or attractions, extra copies of passport and ID, etc. 
• 1 “luxury” item you want to take with you just because. For me, that’s my pillow from home (seriously). For you it might be noise-cancelling headphones or an extra pair of shoes you know you’re only going to wear once. Something like that.

Read More → Travel Essentials for Women

Carry-on toiletries and liquids 

• Concealer or liquid foundation (to save space in your liquids bag you might consider using a powdered mineral foundation like this one) 
• Travel size hair care products 
• Travel size skin care products. Include a day moisturizer with sunscreen. 
• Toothpaste (I save the sample sizes from my dentist for travel) 
• Lip gloss 
• Mascara 
• Brow gel 

Don’t forget that when traveling carry-on only, you’ll need to keep your liquids in a separate, clear, 1-quart bag .  

Keep your liquids bag someplace where it’s easy to get to quickly when going through airport security if you don’t have TSA Precheck.  

I go low tech here and just use a one-quart plastic bag. They’re cheap and light. End of story.  

Make sure you thoroughly read the liquids and prohibited items policies for each and every airline/airport you’ll be flying with for your trip.  

Read my full post on how to pack toiletries for carry-on for all my best tips and tricks and a complete packing list.

Other toiletries and makeup

• Facial cleansing cloths ( I use these that you add water to activate the cleanser so that I can take exactly what I need instead of an entire package)
• Brow pencil 
• Eyeshadow stick (Sometimes. It depends on my mood.) 
• Blush 
• Blush application brush 
• Eyeliner pencil 
• Disposable razor 
• Toothbrush 
• Dental floss (I save the sample sizes I get from my dentist for travel) 
• Tweezers 
• Dietary supplements in zip-close sandwich baggies (count out exactly what you need; don’t take full bottles) 
• Emery board 
• Makeup application sponge 
• Sunscreen stick 
• Deodorant/antiperspirant 
• Small bottle of pain relievers 
• Prescription medications
• A small first aid kit with a few basic first-aid items such as band-aids of various sizes and antiseptic wipes.

General tips for packing light

Before we get to the packing list (keep reading!), here are a few tips to help you with packing light and traveling with just a carry-on bag. 

• When considering what to pack for a week-long trip, generally plan to keep your carry-ons to 8 kilograms (17.6 pounds) or less …fully packed. As a general rule, packing your carry-on bag to 16 pounds will be safe while traveling in Europe. A good quality luggage scale ( like this one ) will help you stay under your weight limit. 
• Use the lightest bag you can find for your carry-on . Some are surprisingly heavy unpacked, leaving you without much room for your clothing and other items if you have a weight limit for hand luggage. 
• Always make sure you thoroughly read the carry-on/hand luggage policies of each and every airline on your itinerary, not just the airline you purchased the ticket from. 
• Most major U.S. airlines do not have a weight limit for carry-on luggage.
• Booking accommodations with access to laundry facilities makes packing light a bit easier since you can do laundry partway through your trip . 
• If you won’t have the opportunity to do laundry, take the extra step of making sure that the clothing you pack all works well together to create a number of outfits .

Final thoughts on packing for a week in a carry-on 

Traveling with a carry-on only can be a challenge, but also provides a lot a benefits. You can save money by not checking luggage and you don’t have to worry about your suitcase getting lost or misdirected.  

If you follow the basic guidelines in this travel packing list post, you’ll have everything you need to get started with packing light. 

What goes on your travel light packing list for a week?

Related articles on packing light 

• Awesome Tips for Packing Light in a Carry-on  
• How to pack a suitcase to maximize space
• How to Pack Toiletries in a Carry-on Bag
• Ultimate Weekend Packing List (For Any Kind of Getaway)  
• Day Trip Packing List Essentials
• The Best Products to Help You Sleep on a Plane
• Awesome products for long flights

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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The Best Carry-On Luggage 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Travel Editors

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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Packing for a trip can be stressful, especially if you’re trying to fit everything you need into a carry-on bag. With increasingly strict airline baggage allowances and common occurrences of lost/mishandled checked bags, finding the right carry-on suitcase is key to avoiding expensive checked baggage fees and ensuring your stuff makes it to your destination. 

No one understands this struggle more than the SmarterTravel team. As travel editors, we travel a lot (and are firm carry-on only flyers.) We tested and reviewed the top carry-on luggage over hundreds of trips to help you find one perfectly suited for all your travels.

The carry-on bags we reviewed underwent rigorous testing to see how they held up to the realities of travel. We evaluated important factors like size and weight, wheeled performance, ease of packing, durability, and special features. Our testing process included packing each bag to capacity, carrying it through airports, stowing it in overhead bins, and taking it on planes, trains, and automobiles during real-world trips.

Ranging in price from affordable to splurge-worthy, the best carry-on suitcases earned top marks across all our tests for their optimal size, seamless maneuverability, handy organization, stylish looks, and resilience.

From a lightweight hard-sided spinner that fits easily in tiny overheads to a large carry-on that expands for over-packers, these are our travel editors’ picks for the best carry-on suitcases of 2024. 

Best Carry-On Suitcase Overall: Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase

The Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase was our favorite of all the carry-on suitcases we tested. This smart and sleek suitcase is made from a durable polypropylene shell that helps contribute to its light weight of 6.4 lbs. Smooth spinner wheels and an adjustable handle make this bag easy to wheel even when fully packed.

The interior is just as nice, lined with a fabric made from 100 percent plastic bottles. There’s also a multi-functional panel divider that can compress clothes to create more space while providing pockets for organization. One of the pockets is water-resistant, so you can use it to separate swimsuits or wet clothing on the journey home.

Our favorite feature of the Samsonite Outline Pro is the antimicrobial handle technology used on the trolley grip and side handles, which helps keep us healthy while traveling. 

Dimensions: 15” x 10” x 23”

Weight: 6.4 lbs

Best Large Carry-On Suitcase: Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase

If you want to test the limits of an airline’s carry-on policy, we recommend the Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase as the best large carry-on suitcase. We’ve taken this suitcase on hundreds of flights and have only ever had to check it on very small puddle-jumper planes. This roomy carry-on can hold up to 42 liters, making it a great suitcase for chronic overpackers. 

This suitcase comes with two compression boards, which can be used to divide the two halves of the suitcase and help you fit even more in. The boards have large pockets perfect for packing cords and other small items. 

We also love that all Roam luggage can be customized to suit your style—you can choose the color of every part of this suitcase, right down to the wheels, to create a unique bag that definitely won’t get mixed up at baggage claim.

Dimensions:  9” x 16.25” x 22”

Weight: 7.7 lbs

Best Expandable Carry-On Suitcase: Delsey Rempart Carry-On Suitcase

An expandable suitcase is like having two bags in one—keep it small and compact for a short trip or open it up for a longer journey (or for the return trip when you buy lots of souvenirs to bring home). Delsey’s Rempart Carry-On Suitcase is our favorite expandable bag due to its patented Securitech Zipper that’s three times more resistant than a standard zipper (so you don’t have to worry about it ripping open, even when it’s expanded to its maximum capacity).

Other thoughtful features include an integrated TSA-combination lock, two packing compartments with compression straps, zippered pockets, and a lined divider. We also love that the interior lining can be removed and washed—an innovation you’ll appreciate if you’ve ever come home with a sandy suitcase after a beach trip.

Three carrying handles allow this bag to be carried in various ways. If you have other Delsey suitcases, the Rempart’s modular design allows it to stack on top for easy carrying and storage. 

Dimensions: 13.75” x 10.25” x 21.75”

Weight: 6.7 lbs

Best Soft-Sided Carry-On Suitcase: Travelpro Maxlite 5

The best soft-sided carry-on suitcase is also one of the lightest weight options on our list. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 lives up to its name, weighing just 5.4 lbs. This model is the brand’s latest and is a full half-pound lighter than the previous iteration, the Travelpro Maxlite 5. 

The suitcase has a unique tapered design that helps prevent it from tipping over when upright (a common problem with soft-sided suitcases). It also has a solid bottom tray design that helps increase the bag’s durability. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 can expand to 2 inches to provide extra space when needed. The interior is lined with a waterproof protectant that helps keep the bag dry. 

This suitcase comes with Travelpro’s limited lifetime warranty, which will cover the cost of repairs if it’s damaged for one year after purchase. 

Dimensions: 23” x 14.5” x 9” 

Weight: 5.4 lbs

Best Luggage Trackers

Best Small Carry-On Suitcase: Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On Luggage

We love the Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On because it’s deceptively spacious for its small size and light weight. It even expands slightly to give you a little bit of extra space when you need it. We’ve packed for week-long trips with just this bag and had no issues fitting everything in. Despite the diminutive size, this suitcase is packed with organizational features, like an exterior laptop sleeve and interior zippered pockets. 

Made from 100 percent recycled, water-resistant fabric, this carry-on-sized spinner bag is easy to wipe clean and great for rainy destinations. 

The Warrior is equipped with heavy-duty wheels that allow you to roll this bag over rough terrain—a perfect pick for navigating the cobblestone streets of Europe.

Dimensions: 21.65” x 14” x 10”

Weight: 8 lbs 12 oz

The Best Hardsided Carry-On Suitcase: Away The Carry-On

Away’s The Carry-On Suitcase has won many awards and is beloved by travelers, and for good reason—it’s smartly designed. The Carry-On is Away’s smallest suitcase and will fit in most overhead compartments and pass all but the strictest baggage sizers at the gate.

This durable carry-on suitcase is crafted from 100 percent polycarbonate for maximum impact resistance. It glides smoothly on premium 360-degree spinner wheels and features a telescoping trolley handle with two height settings for ergonomic maneuvering. The water-resistant shell safeguards your belongings, while convenient features like the TSA-approved lock, laundry bag, and color-matched luggage tag help streamline your packing routine. 

Thoughtfully designed, the suitcase maximizes storage with a double-buckle compression pad and extensive interior organization like three mesh pockets and a handy hanging pocket. Reverse coil zippers grant easy access to the wide opening, and an underside grab handle aids lifting. 

As a bonus, Away’s carry-on suitcase comes in a variety of beautiful colors, including glossy and matte options. 

Dimensions: 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″

Weight: 7.5 lbs

The Best Luxury Carry-On Suitcase: Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On

The Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On is an organized packer’s dream. The design of this suitcase keeps suits, shoes, clothes, and toiletries neatly separated and wrinkle-free. Convenient amenities like the built-in USB port and built-in TSA lock maximize functionality. 

This is a great suitcase choice for business travelers, as the interior features a removable garment sleeve and fiberglass rod that allows you to hang a suit or dress inside the case without getting crushed or wrinkled. 

The Continental Dual Access features Tumi’s signature smooth-rolling wheels and a 3-stage telescoping handle for easy maneuverability. Protective features like molded bumpers and side panels guard against impacts, while built-in tracers and TSA-approved locks keep valuables secured. With options for top, side, or bottom access via well-designed zippers, this suitcase optimizes packing efficiency for several days of travel. 

Dimensions: 22.0″ X 16.0″ X 9.0″

Weight: 11.1 lbs

The Best Carry-On Backpack: L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack

A carry-on doesn’t have to be limited to a suitcase. For the ultimate in mobility, opt for a backpack as your carry-on. You won’t have to worry about climbing stairs or pulling a bag over rough sidewalks, and a backpack can fit under your seat on a full plane when necessary, avoiding the dreaded gate-check. 

Our favorite carry-on backpack is the L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack . Use it on its own for a short trip, or combine it with a checked bag (put all the essentials in the backpack and carry it on the plane) for longer journeys.  

The Approach Travel Pack opens flat and can be packed like a suitcase, unlike a traditional backpack where you’ll have to shove everything in through the top and dig through the entire bag to find something buried at the bottom.

Dimensions: 20” x 12.5” x 10”

Weight: 3.3 lbs

5 Simple Ways to Make Travel Easier in 2024

How We Tested These Carry-Ons

These are the carry-on suitcases that the SmarterTravel team uses on their own trips. We’ve taken them on countless flights, train trips, road trips, and cruises to find out the pros and cons of each bag. 

When testing a carry-on, we consider the following factors:

• Size and weight
• Ease of transportation
• Organizational features

We’ve tested out numerous suitcases that didn’t make the cut, which helped us narrow the list to the best carry-ons worth investing in. 

What Size is a Carry-On Suitcase

The dimensions for a carry-on suitcase vary by airline and generally change depending on if it’s an international or domestic flight. For flights within the United States, the most common size limit for a carry-on suitcase is 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high. 

The international carry-on suitcase size limit is usually 21.7 inches by 15.7 inches wide by 9 inches high, but this will vary by airline.

Note that airline carry-on size limits include all aspects of the suitcase, including the handles and the wheels, so be sure to check the total dimensions of your bag and not just the interior measurements. If your suitcase meets the size limit but the wheels don’t, it will not pass the carry-on sizer test.

Always check with your airline for the correct carry-on size for your trip, as it can change by destination. 

Is There a Weight Limit for Carry-Ons?

There usually isn’t a weight limit for carry-ons on domestic flights within the United States (unless you’re flying on a very small plane). However, you must be able to lift the suitcase into the overhead bin without assistance.

International flights are generally stricter with weight limits and will weigh your carry-on bag when you check-in. These weight restrictions vary quite a bit by airline but generally range from 15 to 35 lbs. 

What Can’t You Pack in a Carry-On Suitcase?

Remember, carry-on suitcases are subject to stricter security restrictions than checked bags. You can’t pack these items in carry-on suitcases, but you can pack them in your checked luggage:

• Liquids or gels bigger than 3.4 ounces
• Sharp objects (including knives, hiking poles, and large scissors) 
• Certain sporting goods (such as baseball bats and hockey sticks)
• Self-defense items (including pepper spray and brass knuckles)
• Weapons (including firearms) 

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Best Size Suitcase for 1 Week Trip in 2019

Everyone has got a reason to travel whether to go on an important business trip, to visit your family or just go on a short vacation to refresh your mind.

Perhaps the most challenging but necessary decisions to make while traveling is what luggage you should carry. Many people overlook this critical part and go out shopping at the very last minute and pick the wrong sized suitcase.

A suitcase is not just a container for your clothes and other personal items; the kind of suitcase you use greatly impacts your travel experiences.

For people who do a lot of traveling, a lightweight suitcase is a must, not just because it’s easier to carry around than a heavier bag, but you can also pack a lot of things into them before reaching the airline’s baggage weight limit.

Picking up the right sized suitcase for your luggage can save you a lot of time and efforts during your travel. You should always invest in a suitcase that has superior quality, very lightweight plus suits your pocket.

If you’re thinking that finding one such dream suitcase that fits all the criteria for your next 1-week trip is very difficult and time-consuming, don’t worry!

 We can help you in choosing the right sized suitcase for your one-week trip. Given below is the list of top suitcases from best companies that can fulfill all your needs without burning a huge hole in your pocket.

Table of Contents

8 Best Size Suitcase for 1 Week Trip

1. delsey luggage helium aero expandable spinner trolley.

This amazing suitcase is made of polycarbonate material that is very strong and tough to cracking and breaking which guarantees its durability.

It has got a nice metallic glossy finish that looks beautiful and can sooth anyone’s eyes. Its body dimensions are 29×19.5×12.5 inches which is a perfect size for a one-week trip.

You will get a lot of great storage options with this suitcase to store all your different kind of personal items. It comes with two large fully-lined sections that have a lot of different sized pockets to fit all kind of products from your laptop charger to office files.

The amazing retractable handle and the lightness of the polycarbonate body of the suitcase make it a breeze rolling in your hands.

There are two quick wrap handles one situated at the top and another one at the side to provide you with a rapid clutch of the bag when you’re in a hurry, or you just want to carry it in a briefcase style.

The double spinner wheels on the bottoms help the suitcase to roll 360 degrees with great stability and keeps ZERO weight on your arms.

The TSA approved lock is just a pleasure to use. It is easy to handle for you and difficult for other people to crack which makes it super safe to keep your imperative documents.

The suitcase can also expand up to 2-inches that provides additional packing space in case you are planning to bring back some knick-knacks with you.

• Best for clumsy people
• Safe from breaking and cracking
• Expandable up to 2 inches
• Scratches are visible most of the time

2. Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage

If you're going on a casual trip with just loads of clothes, Samsonite Winfield is just the best options for you. It comes in two sizes, i.e., 20-inches and 28-inches.

You can pick anyone of the two sizes that suits your luggage capacity. It has got one big zipper with a built-in interior divider that is totally secured with full zip. The two sections are further divided with cross straps that give you extra packing space as well as keeps your different piles of clothes away from each other.

The brushstroke exterior of the suitcase gives it a sturdy look and hides all the ugly scratches and scrapes from your trip thus keeping the bag in good condition for years.

It also has TSA approved lock which holds the zippers and releases them only when the right passcode is entered which makes it difficult for other people to open your bag without your knowledge.

Two sets of multi-directional wheels make it is super comfortable and portable and also keeps the weight away from your hands. It comes with a quick grab handle at the top and a telescoping handle that makes it easy to slide down the suitcase while walking.

The Samsonite 2 Winfield collection is made from spinner technology and uses polycarbonate to design its exterior which makes it the lightest weighted, most functional and a fashionable option for next one-week trip. 

• Very lightweight
• Do not cross the airline limits
• Easy to handle
• The hard shell material is very thin

3. Travelpro Maxlite 4

This amazing 22-inch suitcase fits perfectly for all minimalist travelers who love to carry as less as they can. This suitcase is comparatively narrower than most of the suitcases and has got just about 14 inches as its breadth.

This means it can easily fit in most airlines overhead compartment while packing all the important accessories you need.

The telescoping handle of the suitcase adds extra length to the suitcase and stops at 28 inches making it very easy to slide around on any king of the surface.

The two quick handles at the top and the side of the suitcase are very comfortable to hold and provides extra grip. The suitcase also features high-performance Ball Bearing in-line skate wheels that ensures flawless portability and accessibility of the suitcase.

The suitcase is made of rugged Polyester fabric that comes with a water-resistant coating, which makes it durable and provides protection from all different kinds of stains and abrasions your bag might get during your travel.

It has two zipped compartments with multiple inner pockets that are great for storing all kinds of personal items.

• Can suit to everyone’s pocket
• Spinner wheels works very smoothly without any sounds
• Does not have a TSA approved lock
• Zippers are not very strong

4. Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds

Like most of the small suitcase designs, Kenneth Cole Reaction’s suitcase also has one main compartment that is further divided into two sections with the help of a zippered cloth wall.

Other than this, the front lid also features a Large U-Shaped zipper pocket that allows double-sided packing. The bag is fully lined with padded material from inside. The garment restraint straps make it compatible to hold your clothes and other pieces of stuff in place.

From outside, it is covered with strong and durable ABS hard-shell material that provides it protection from scratches and tears from the trip.

On top of that, this material is so light that it will never let you cross the airline weight restriction and saves you a lot of money no matter how much you pack.

The amazing multi-directional spinning wheels make it easy to move on and above uneven and rugged surfaces easily and relieves your hands from extra pressure while you’re on the move.

The telescoping trolley handles combined with the wheels makes it light weight and conductive for single-handed use.

• Very affordable
• Hardcover is sturdy and reliable
• Very easy to keep it as same as a new one
• No security locks
• Does not expand

5. Olympia Luggage rolling duffel bag

This Olympia luggage product is a very different kind of bag. It is a duffel bag that uses wheels and telescopic handle that makes it portable and convenient just like a rolling suitcase.

Its body is made of the Supreme "Protecflon" Polyester With 1200 D. Polyester fabric which makes it hard-wearing and sturdy.

It comes with eight spacious pockets that are convenient for maximum packing and can store every kind of travel items from your big and heavy shoes to a small toothbrush.

The presence of these different sized pockets also helps in the efficient organization of your stuff during your one-week trip.

The push button retractable handle provides easy maneuver of the bag and makes its weight go away. It also has two strong straps attached to the sides of the bag which are great for holding it up in your hands or you can also pick it up on your shoulders just like a backpack if you feel like.

It also features a hideaway zipper pocket that offers secured travel and the multi-directional Recessed in-line skate metal ball bearing wheel system makes it easy to be carried around in any direction you want.

• Multiple external and internal pocket
• Very flexible and easy to carry
• Not as strong as suitcase
• Prone to scratches and tears

6. U.S. Traveler Rio carry-on luggage set

The US Traveler Rio Carry-on Luggage Set features two portable bags- a suitcase of about 21 inches and a small tote bag of about 15 inches that are great for a traveler when you have lots of extra items with you other than your clothes or important files.

Each of the bags is made of strong and durable polyester material that prevents it from wearing and tearing during the travel.

The polyester fabric also makes these bags lightweight that are easy to carry without any major problems. The inside of the bags is made with nice padded material that keeps your belongings secure.

The suitcase has one main zipper that is divided into two compartments inside with the help of a zippered mesh wall that makes the packing more expedient and systematized.

It also has two spacious U-shaped pockets at the front to provide extra space in the bag.

The small tote bag has single compartment storage and an additional front zipper pocket to carry your extra stuff.

The suitcase has an internal deluxe retractable push-button handle system, and two quick grip handles on the top and side that provides mobility and expediency to the bag.

The small tote bag has a piggy-bag-strap and an adjustable and detachable non-slip padded shoulder strap that makes it convenient to be carried around.

This 2-piece suitcase set is suitable for people who travel with their cameras or such belongings. You can also use this set two way, take the suitcase when you’re going for a week-long trip and pack your clothes in the small tote when going out for just a day or two.

• Long lasting material
• Added advantage of expandable storage space
• Not suitable for long trips
• Small bag has no wheels

7. SwissGear Soft-sided Cabin Luggage

The Swissgear Softsided Cabin Suitcase is made out of tough jacquard weave nylon fabric and polyester as the outer material. The casing is really soft but strong and durable.

The bag is totally water resistant and has a lightweight of just 3 kg which makes it very handy while traveling.

It has one big compartment that is divided into two parts with a large zippered mesh covering. It further expands into two front panel pockets which provide extra storage space in the bag.

Sadly, it has no individual area to keep your laptop, and you might need an additional to carry your laptop if you're going on a business trip.

The four sets of light-weight spinning wheels provide 360 degrees multi-directional movement of the bag and make it really light to be carried around in any kind of surface.

The reinforced top and side quick grip handles are great for easy lifting and carrying the bag in the briefcase style.

The push locking telescoping handle is great for pulling or pushing the luggage easily when you’re just not in the mood to carry tshe suitcase.

And also, it makes the suitcase at light as air which you can easily roll around on uneven surfaces with the help of its amazing sliding wheels.

• Handle rods are very tough
• Material is very durable
• Very spacious
• No zipped pocket in main compartment
• No TSA locks
• No side handles

8. Victorinox Spectra

This suitcase has a 100% Bayer Polycarbonate break resistant shell that keeps your stuff safe inside. Comes with a nice matte finish that is scratch resistant and looks stylish.

It also has corner guards that give it superior strength and adds durability. In total, this suitcase is a great option for you if you're going on a week-long vacation that includes a lot of traveling.

The strong exterior of the suitcase will protect it from all the wears and tears from during the trip.

The suitcase comes with dual caster wheels to give you 360 degrees of added portability and smooth roll across any kind of surface.

The soft tread feature of the caster wheels keeps the suitcase in ideal transaction and weight away from your hands.

The dual-trolley aluminum handle system provides two comfortable, and quick grip handles that helps you in quickly picking up the suitcase whenever you want and one telescoping handle that helps in transitioning the bag from pushing on four wheels to pulling it on two wheels which makes it really portable and lightweight.

The main compartment of the suitcase splits into two packing areas which provide accessibility to pack a different kind of items. The compartment is divided with a mesh pocket that you can easily zip and unzip to put your stuff.

It also features the integrated programmable TSA lock in the front in which you can punch your favorite passcode, presses the button, and you're ready to go!

• Attractive design
• Compact size
• No need for a power source
• Brew time is usually longer
• Rubber gasket at the bottom keeps coming off

If you want to buy a good quality suitcase, don't worry about its high cost as it will serve you for many years. All the above-listed suitcase are the top quality suitcases that are available in the market right now. Pick up the most suited one according to your needs and enjoy your travel. Also, if you know about any other such amazing suitcase, do let us know in the comments section below.

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The Best Carry-on Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

For frequent fliers or light-packing vacationers, these are the best carry-on bags.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Every frequent flier needs a good carry-on. And even if you travel only occasionally, you'll be glad to have one on hand. But besides allowing you to bypass checked baggage, what makes a high-quality carry-on? If you ask us, it's about capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design.

With this in mind, we tested more than 150 carry-ons, including suitcases, duffels, weekenders, backpacks, and underseat bags to see which models check all the boxes. We packed them up, spun them around, hoisted them overhead, rolled them over various surfaces, and whacked them with a baseball bat to see how they'd hold up in a real-life setting. The results of these tests were considered — along with price, weight, dimensions, materials, and smart features — to narrow down the best carry-ons currently on the market.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Earning perfect scores in all tests, this all-star carry-on has a spacious capacity, a super-durable thermoplastic shell, and smooth-rolling wheels.

There's no designated zippered section for dirty clothes.

We tried lots of excellent suitcases, but the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner was a clear winner. Earning perfect scores in all our tests, it's easy to maneuver on two or four wheels and rolls smoothly on various surfaces, including carpet and hard flooring. We also like that the aluminum telescoping handle extends and locks with the push of a button. This all-star suitcase has various pockets within the main compartment, and it expands a couple of inches when you need extra space. We were able to pack enough clothes for a four-day trip, including two pairs of shoes, multiple jackets, and two toiletry bags — no expansion needed. We wish this carry-on had a zippered section or removable bag for dirty laundry, but it does have a separator to keep your shoes away from your clean clothes.

We loved the sleek, minimalist-modern design of the Freeform, which comes in 12 hues ranging from white to mint to merlot. After hitting it with a baseball bat, the polycarbonate (high-strength thermoplastic) shell remained scuff-free and showed virtually no signs of damage. Even after six months of regularly traveling with this bag, it shows no signs of wear and tear, and any scuffs it has accumulated have been easily buffed out. Considering the reasonable price, durable construction, and spacious capacity, we think it's a great choice for frequent fliers and anyone in need of a high-quality carry-on.

The Details: 21 x 15 x 10 inches | 5.6 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | 10-year limited warranty

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-up

Tumi alpha international dual access carry-on.

This bag has two access points and a removable garment bag for a suit or dress.

When the front-access section is fully packed, it will eat into the space in the main compartment.

The Tumi International Dual Access carry-on was a close runner-up to the Samsonite Freeform. It moves like a dream on various types of flooring, thanks to the four smooth-gliding dual spinner wheels and comfortable telescoping handle. Even after using the bag for three months, the wheels never got caught on any surfaces, making it easy to run through the airport or navigate a new city. Made of the brand's signature ballistic nylon, it also passed our baseball bat test with flying colors.

We were able to pack everything into the bag’s various compartments and loved the flexibility of a removable suiter for trips with dressier attire. The clamshell design also features several interior pockets and compression straps on one half to easily hold our four-day-trip packing list. The front-access portion can easily fit a sweater or light layer when the main suitcase isn’t stuffed full, or you can use it for tech items or a small makeup bag instead. There are also two pockets on the exterior for smaller items like an umbrella and a built-in USB port you can connect to a power bank (sold separately). Though the price is higher than many other carry-ons, this is an investment in an undoubtedly high-quality carrier that will last for years to come.

The Details: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 10.7 pounds | Softside | Expandable | 4 dual spinner wheels | 5-year warranty

Best Expandability

Away the carry-on flex.

• Organization 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.8 /5

This carry-on is pretty spacious to begin with, but you can unzip the expander for 2.25 inches of extra space.

It might not meet all carry-on sizing requirements when you fully expand it.

This durable carry-on manages to be compact and portable while still offering a ton of space inside thanks to two large interior compartments and a helpful compression system. You can zip your items in on one side and buckle them in on the other, using the mesh pockets to store smaller items for organization. As all overpackers know, sometimes you just need a few extra inches of space — and The Carry-on Flex features a zipper expander that adds an additional 2.25 inches if you happen to buy one souvenir too many on a trip and need to fit it all in on the way home. However, be wary of your airline’s overhead bin allowances because using the expander may make your carry-on one inch too large, and you may be forced to check it (the expanded dimensions of the bag are 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches).

Other highlights we loved during testing included the smooth wheels that can roll in any direction; the different height options of the handle; and the notch on the underside of the bag that makes it so much easier to lift out of a car trunk, into an overhead bin, or off of a luggage carousel. The bag also felt very sturdy and tough with no dents and barely a scratch after we threw it off counters and hit it repeatedly with a baseball bat during testing.  

The Details: 21.7 x 13.7 x 9 inches | 8.15 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | Limited lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

July Carry On Trunk

• Capacity 4.5 /5

We love this trunk for how sleek and stylish it looks while still having useful features like an ejectable power bank and a customizable handle height.

You have to be more intentional about what you pack since the trunk has no expandability.

This stylish carry-on trunk features a clamshell design that opens right down the middle rather than the 30/70 design that many trunks typically have. It feels like a luxury bag thanks to the zipperless clasp closures, ejectable power bank, and multi-stop rubber handle (you can customize the handle to sit at any height you want). We found the trunk super easy to maneuver over different surfaces like carpet and concrete pavers during testing, and it rolled effortlessly on four wheels. When we rolled it on two wheels, it did slow down slightly, but it was still easy to move, and the weight felt evenly distributed through the bag and handle.

We never thought a glossy exterior could be so scuff-proof — the trunk had no scuffs at all even after we pushed it off a counter three times. We did manage to give it a few very small dents after hitting the trunk with a baseball bat, but they were barely noticeable. One thing to note is that this trunk has no give because of its hard shell and clasp closures, so you cannot overstuff it, and you have to be more picky with your packing list.

The Details: 21.5 x 14.75 x 8.75 inches | 8.4 pounds | Limited lifetime warranty | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

• Travel + Leisure/Jhett Thompson

Best Lightweight

Delsey paris hardside expandable luggage with spinner wheels.

• Maneuverability 4 /5
• Durability 4.7 /5

At just over five pounds, this hardside suitcase is lightweight and compact while still fitting an impressive amount of clothes.

It sustained minor denting during testing, and the handle is somewhat short and felt a little loose.

The carry-ons we tested ranged in weight from about 13 pounds down to 4.36 pounds. Weighing just over five pounds, the Delsey Clavel was the best lightweight option we tried. This hardside spinner has a polypropylene (thermoplastic) shell that held up pretty well during our tests, though a particularly hard bat swing did dent it slightly. After traveling with the bag for six months, it only has minor scuffs — even after it was checked. While it looks small, it holds a surprising amount of clothes, even without the expander, and should fit into an overhead bin without any issues.

This carry-on maneuvers well over cracks and bumps. However, the handle is somewhat short and feels slightly loose. Still, we think the price is fair and would recommend it to anyone in the market for lightweight, fuss-free baggage for shorter trips.

The Details: 22 x 14 x 10 inches | 5.3 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | 5-year limited warranty

Best Budget

Amazon basics hardside spinner.

This wallet-friendly carry-on has a scratch-resistant shell and a surprisingly spacious capacity.

It only comes in four colors and doesn't have any smart features or a combination lock.

For something more affordable, look no further than Amazon. We found that this affordable hardside suitcase maneuvers really smoothly, even on carpet and over bumps, and handles turn like a champ. Not only that, but the scratch-resistant shell held up surprisingly well through our bat and drop tests. We were able to fit four days worth of clothing, shoes, and toiletries without having to expand the bag, though we're comforted by the fact that there's room to spare. After six months of regularly using the bag, we found it to be the perfect size for weekend trips. The Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner exceeded our expectations in more ways than one. And while it only comes in four colors, we're big fans of the simple, sleek design.

The Details: 22 x 15 x 10 inches | 6.3 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Best With Laptop Compartment

Samsonite just right carry-on spinner.

Samsonite 

• Durability 4 /5

It’s packed with organization features, including a padded laptop sleeve, a wireless charging pocket, and removable packing cubes.

There was some peeling and scratching on the outer material and wheels of the bag after our durability tests.

If you tend to travel with a laptop and other devices, the Samsonite Just Right Carry-on Spinner is especially handy with a tech organizational panel that you can unzip and unfold at the front of the bag to easily store and access your valuables. This panel features a 15-inch laptop sleeve, a padded tablet sleeve, a document sleeve, a wireless charging pocket, a USB charging port, and plenty of zippered storage pockets. There are locks for both the main compartment and the laptop compartment, and the bag also comes with removable packing cubes for additional organization.

Though the suitcase felt a bit heavy after we packed it, it was very easy to maneuver, gliding through turns and different terrains beautifully. It suffered some minor marks after we threw it off counters and hit it with a baseball bat, including some peeling and scratching on the exterior and the wheels. One of the top corners was ever so slightly dented as well, but chances are you’ll stick this carry-on in the overhead bin rather than checking it so it won’t get banged around as much, especially if you have your laptop inside. All of the built-in tech compartments, elastic compression straps, and bonus packing cubes are an excellent way to keep all of your valuables in place. 

The Details: 22 x 14 x 9.3 inches | 7.9 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | 4 dual spinner wheels | Limited 10-year warranty

Best Softside

L.l.bean medium carryall pullman.

This rugged softside bag has plenty of pockets for organization, including one for shoes.

The main handle only has one height setting, and the additional grab handle is located on the left side of the suitcase, which is more convenient for lefties.

The L.L.Bean Carryall Spinner Pullman is a redesign from L.L.Bean’s luggage collection, made with a new fabric and design that we love for a softside carry-on. The rugged, abrasion-resistant material on the outside of the suitcase feels like it can stand up to rough handling, and the shell of the bag has some rigidity that makes it feel extra sturdy for a softside bag. We also loved this carry-on for its unique outer pockets that you just can’t find on a hardside bag, like a shoe pocket that keeps your dirty boots or sneakers separate from the clean clothing inside. We packed socks and underwear in the zipper compartment on the lid of the suitcase, which saved interior space for the rest of our clothing. While the carry-on rolled smoothly on the concrete and linoleum floor of our obstacle course, it was a little harder to maneuver over carpet. It also caught our attention that the side handle is located on the left side of the bag, which made it a little awkward for our righties to hoist the carry-on into the overhead bins on our airplane set — although this would be a plus for left-handed travelers.

The Details: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 7.9 pounds | Softside | 4 spinner wheels | 1-year return policy

People / Joy Kim

Delsey Chatelet Air 2.0 21-inch Spinner

The Chatelet Air 2.0 has a gorgeous vintage appeal, and despite the elevated aesthetics, it doesn't sacrifice functionality or durability.

It's not expandable, so the compact design is best for short trips.

If luggage aesthetic is a top priority, Delsey's Chatelet Air 2.0 might be your best bet. Inspired by traditional Parisian architecture with unique lines, contrast stitching, and a vintage appeal, this suitcase is a sight for sore eyes. Sleek design aside, it's exceptionally functional. There's a fully zippered compartment on one side and compression straps on the other, plus pockets throughout and even a handy USB port.

What's more, the zippers open and close smoothly, and it glides effortlessly with the four spinner wheels on carpet, hard floors, and even stone pavers. It's durable, too, sustaining no visible damage after three months of use including two international flights in which the bag was checked. This bag is a standard carry-on size, and we were able to fit everything on our packing list . However, it’s probably best for short trips as there wasn't really any room to spare when we finished.

The Details: 22 x 15 x 10 inches | 8 pounds | Hardside | USB port | 4 dual spinner wheels | 10-year limited warranty

• Leticia Almeida

Most Spacious

Travelpro x travel + leisure carry-on spinner.

Travelpro 

This 45-liter carry-on has plenty of room, a two-inch expander, and tons of interior organization.

It may not fit in some overhead bins if you use the expander.

Spaciousness is key when it comes to a carry-on, especially if you’re using it as your main suitcase. This 45-liter Travelpro carry-on had an impressive amount of space for our packing list during testing, and it also has a generous two-inch expander if you need more room. While some hardside bags are very rigid, we noticed that this one has a bit of give if you do need to pack it extra full. Despite being slightly flexible, it proved to be rock-solid when it comes to durability, surviving our drop and bat tests without a single scratch. We think this makes an excellent investment for frequent flyers with top-notch organization inside, including two split-case compartments with two separate zippered divider panels, multiple accessory pockets, and a removable pouch. We were also impressed with the quality of the compression straps, which were adjustable and stylish without sacrificing durability. 

The Details: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | 8.6 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | Limited lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Most Durable

Briggs & riley sympatico domestic carry-on expandable spinner 22-inch.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 4 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

The shock-absorbing Makrolon polycarbonate stands up to dents and scratches, and the wheels glide with ease over bumps and around corners.

It's expensive, and the expander is located on the inside, which is a little counterintuitive.

The most durable carry-on we tested is Briggs & Riley's Sympatico Domestic Spinner. This compact suitcase is undeniably expensive, but hear us out. The exceedingly robust, shock-absorbing Makrolon polycarbonate shell sustained exactly zero dents or scratches during our bat and drop tests and still looks brand new after six months of frequent travel.

Durability aside, this carry-on was easy to maneuver on hard floors and carpet, around tight corners, and even over bumps. It also has a good amount of packing space with plenty of organizational features. We like how thoughtfully designed its features are, with elements like pockets, dividers, and expanding sides that really help you maximize the space in this smaller carry-on bag. One thing to note is that the expander is on the inside, which isn't the most intuitive. Other than that, we loved the look of the glossy exterior and think it definitely reflects the premium price tag.

The Details: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 8.8 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | USB-port | 4 spinner wheels | Limited lifetime warranty

Best Underseat

Calpak hue mini carry-on luggage.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5

It's conveniently compact but still spacious enough to hold multiple outfits and maneuvers effortlessly on four spinner wheels.

There's no outer zipper pocket, and it's definitely not as spacious as some others.

Looking for something you can stash underneath the seat in front of you? The 29-liter Hue Mini Carry-On from Calpak might be just the thing. Measuring 16 x 14 x 8 inches, it's conveniently compact but still spacious enough to fit a couple days' worth of outfits. There's also a laptop sleeve, making it a top choice for short business trips. Despite the mini design, the sophisticated color options and modish silhouette will leave no confusion over whether it's for an adult or child. The four spinner wheels offer excellent maneuverability, too, and there's even a TSA-approved lock if you ever decide to check it. If we could change one thing, we'd add an outer pocket for easy access in-flight. But other than that, we think the price is more than fair for the quality, features, and durability.

The Details: 16 x 14 x 8 inches | 6 pounds | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | 2-year limited warranty

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best for Organization

Paravel aviator carry-on plus.

• Durability 4.5 /5

A compression board makes it easy to fit everything into the zippered compartments, and there's a removable laundry bag for dirty clothes.

This suitcase isn't expandable, but it's one of the larger carry-ons we tested.

For highly organized travelers, we recommend the Paravel Aviator. After regularly traveling with the bag for six months, we really love the exceptional capacity and organizational features. Even though it's not expandable, the built-in compression board makes it easy to fit everything into the zippered compartments. It also comes with a removable laundry bag for dirty clothes.

Inspired by retro luggage with a modern twist, this classy carry-on is gorgeous. Not only that, but the durable polycarbonate exterior feels sturdy and sustained just a few minor scuffs during our tests. It's super easy to maneuver, too. Although the Paravel Aviator is somewhat steep in price, we think it's a worthwhile investment for those in the market for a high-quality suitcase. While updating your luggage collection, lovers of vintage-inspired design and organization should also consider a train case .

The Details: 23 x 15 x 9.5 inches | 8.5 pounds | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | USB port | 10-year limited warranty

Best Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

• Comfort 5 /5

It's got a generous capacity, various pockets, a laptop sleeve, contoured straps, and a rain cover for protection from the elements.

The price is pretty steep for a backpack, but you can count on quality.

Clocking perfect scores on all our tests, the best carry-on backpack is definitely the Cotopaxi Allpa. Boasting a generous 35-liter capacity, plus various pockets and compartments, it makes packing pretty stress-free. Not only that, but the side zippers allow for easy access, even when it's stuffed full. There's also a padded sleeve for your laptop or a tablet, plus a portable keyboard .

The pack is available in several cheery colorways with a slightly rugged flair, and we loved the design and looks. It's made of high-strength polyester with ballistic nylon paneling and coated with water-repellent thermoplastic, so you can count on it to hold up for years in various weather conditions. It even comes with a rain cover for an extra layer of protection. The contoured straps make it super comfy to wear, while the handles make it easy to lift overhead.

The Details: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | 3.5 pounds | 35 liters | Nylon

Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Weekender

Away everywhere bag.

• Portability 5 /5

The clamshell design has two large zippered compartments, plus various pockets, a laptop sleeve, carrying handles, a shoulder strap, and a locking zipper.

It's nearly the size of a carry-on suitcase, and the shoulder strap is a little finicky.

The Large Everywhere Bag from Away is our favorite weekender to bring as a carry-on. It's designed like a clamshell suitcase, folding out from the center to reveal two zippered mesh compartments. After packing it up, it's undoubtedly big enough for a four-day trip — maybe longer. The nylon exterior feels sturdy, albeit a little boxy, and flaunts a professional, minimalist appeal.

This carrier has two handles and a removable shoulder strap. The strap is comfortably padded, and while it's supposed to be adjustable, we found it a bit finicky. Other notable features include a padded laptop sleeve, a magnetic locking zipper, and a trolley sleeve that slides onto the handle of any suitcase. While the Large Everywhere Bag is nearly the size of a rolling carry-on, it's substantially lighter in weight (at under four pounds). We think this is a solid choice for business travel and short trips, whether you get there by plane, train, or automobile.

The Details: 21 x 12 x 9.5 inches | 3.8 pounds | 38 liters | Nylon and leather | 1-year limited warranty

Best Garment Bag

Mark & graham commuter 2-in-1 garment bag.

Mark & Graham

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5

This garment bag is surprisingly spacious yet lightweight, and it folds into a cabin-size duffel with smooth zippers and a trolley sleeve.

It's pricier than most garment bags and isn't backed by a warranty.

This garment bag-duffel hybrid is surprisingly spacious. We fit one suit, a button-down shirt, dress pants, two dresses, a belt, a pair of loafers, stilettos, a water bottle, and a phone inside with no issues. When open, you can hang it from the upper strap and attach multiple hangers to the sturdy iron hook. Then when you're done packing, it's easy to fold up into the duffel configuration.

Though it doesn't roll like a suitcase, the Commuter 2-in-1 Garment Bag is pretty lightweight, even when packed full. It has two grab handles and a padded shoulder strap, making it easy to lift and carry. There's also a trolley sleeve on the side, allowing you to slide it over your luggage handle so you don't have to carry it on your shoulder. This bag seems well-made and proved durable in our tests — it didn't rip or even scratch when we dragged a stiletto heel across the exterior. The price is steeper than most garment bags , and it's not backed by a warranty. Still, we think it's an excellent choice for frequent business travelers.

The Details: 22 x 10 x 10 inches | Duffel

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Other Carry-on Bags We Liked

While we tested plenty of high-scoring carry-on bags, there were many items that almost made our list but didn’t quite make the cut due to several weaknesses with maneuverability, capacity, design, durability, and/or overall value revealed during testing. 

Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 Carry-on : We appreciated the large capacity and expandability of this bag, allowing us to easily fit everything on our packing list. But the wheels are somewhat large, which makes it hard to fit into an overhead bin.

Samsonite Tru-Frame Carry-on Spinner : We loved this carry-on for its futuristic, zipperless design and durability, though it felt a bit more compact than some of the more spacious carry-ons on this list.

Tumi Alpha Continental Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-on : This suitcase is an investment, but it has more of a premium feel than most others we tested and is exceptionally sturdy. It is rather heavy, though, at 11.4 pounds and may be a bit wider than most airlines’ carry-on size requirements.

Samsonite Omni PC Expandable Carry-on Spinner : This is a decent option for a lightweight bag, but ultimately we felt some maneuverability issues were enough to keep it off our list of top picks. It didn't turn as sharply as many others and rolling it over carpet was a bit of a challenge.

Arlo Skye The Weekender : This weekender has a spacious interior with a separate shoe compartment and a very large side pocket for electronics and other accessories. We wish the padding on the shoulder strap was adjustable so you could align it better with your height.

Monos Carry-on Plus : We were fond of this carry-on, noting the ample compartments and spacious capacity. However, it was slightly tricky to turn on four wheels, and the handle wasn't quite up to par with others we tested.

Arlo Skye The Zipper Carry-on Max With Front Pocket : Even though it doesn't expand, this suitcase fit everything on our packing list, did well rolling over bumps, and showed no signs of damage from our bat swings. Plus, like some of the other Arlo Skye luggage pieces , it comes with a removable power bank. While we have few complaints. we were concerned about this bag fitting in the overhead bins.

July Carry On Pro : We found this suitcase to be aesthetically pleasing, plenty spacious, and easy to maneuver. While the feature-rich design is enticing, it was pretty similar to the Away Carry-on, which compressed a little better.

The Travel + Leisure team performed various luggage tests in our New York City lab to evaluate the capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design of each carry-on. We filled each bag with enough clothing and essentials for a four-day trip, including six shirts, three pairs of pants, five pairs of socks, five pairs of underwear, two jackets, and two pairs of shoes, plus one small and one large toiletry bag. We then analyzed how well the bags handled the cargo.

After packing them up, we rolled the bags around on different surfaces (when possible) to see how well they maneuvered over pavement and carpet, and we maneuvered them through human obstacle courses to see how they can handle sharp turns in tight spaces. We also recreated an airplane set in our lab to lift the bags into real overhead bins and push them underneath seats. We whacked the fully packed bags with a metal baseball bat and pushed them off a table to see how well they held up to wear and tear.

After testing these bags in the lab, we sent them home with our T+L editors to travel with the bag for a period of six months to continue evaluating the luggage in the real world. Keeping price, size, adjustability, features, and standout quirks in mind, the carry-ons with the highest scores in all testing categories were ultimately chosen for this roundup, and we will continue to update it as we test more carry-ons.

Tips for Buying Carry-on Luggage

Consider hardside vs. softside luggage.

When buying carry-on luggage , you'll see a range of hardside and softside options. Suitcases with hard shells can be better for protecting things from crushing and are generally easy to wipe clean. However, depending on the color and material, they can be prone to scuffing.

Softside luggage, on the other hand, is typically a lighter weight, more flexible if you tend to be an overpacker, and often just as durable as its hardside counterpart. While a textile shell can be trickier to clean, it may not show as much dirt or scuffs either, and it likely won't dent like a hardside bag can.

Look for lightweight construction

Lightweight luggage is crucial when choosing a carry-on. Be sure to note the empty weight of the suitcase or bag before buying it, as heftier designs will make a jam-packed carrier all the more cumbersome. Weight affects not only maneuverability, but also your ability to hoist it into the airplane's overhead bin. The wheeled carry-on suitcases we tested ranged in weight from 4.36 to 12.9 pounds. Anything heavier than that is going to be too heavy for many people.

Decide if you want extra organizational features

Some carry-on luggage is relatively basic, with a main compartment and a pocket or two. However, many suitcases, weekenders, and duffel bags have additional organizational features that make packing and accessing your stuff much easier. This may include a laptop sleeve, a shoe separator, a laundry bag, various zippered sections, exterior pockets, and even charging capabilities .

Choose between handheld, spinner, or two-wheeled luggage

When it comes to choosing the best carry-on bag for you, first consider your traveling style and packing needs. Spinner luggage, which features four wheels that can spin 360 degrees, is easy to maneuver whether you're running to your airport gate or making your way through a new city. Bags with spinner wheels are generally quite easy to roll over various surfaces, making them a great option if you plan to walk for long periods of time with your luggage. They allow you to maneuver well-stuffed expandable luggage more easily. Two-wheeled bags, however, may be less sturdy, but they'll give you a few more inches of extra space when packing. Bags with only two wheels also tend to be slightly lighter than their four-wheeled counterparts. Lastly, opting for a weekender or carry-on backpack means you can dash around as needed, and your bag will be more compact, but you will have to manage all the weight on your back or shoulders instead of rolling it.

Rules vary among airlines , but most allow carry-on luggage no larger than 24 inches tall, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. Some are slightly stricter, setting the limit at 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Keep this in mind when using your suitcase's expander, as the additional couple of inches could put you over the size limit. When in doubt, check the airline's website.

Some airlines have a carry-on weight limit of roughly 35 pounds. However, this is often not strictly enforced, and many domestic airlines don't have a limit at all. Bear in mind some international flights may restrict carry-ons over 22 pounds. Either way, make sure you are able to lift your bag on your own, otherwise, it's probably too heavy.

All liquids, including makeup, lotion, and other cosmetics, must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces in carry-on luggage. (For checked baggage, you can bring pretty much any size.) Powdered makeup, bar soap, and solid deodorant are usually allowed in larger containers. You'll also want to put all liquid beauty and personal hygiene products in a clear plastic bag before going through airport security. You can review the TSA's official liquids rules here .

AirTags are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. These trackers use such low energy Bluetooth that they're safe and TSA-compliant. For other GPS trackers, you should check with your individual airlines to make sure that your device is allowed, especially if they use a higher level of power.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, commerce writer Theresa Holland pored over in-house testing insights for dozens of bags, then cross-checked product descriptions and manuals to compile a comprehensive list of the best carry-on luggage currently on the market. Of the above brands, she owns carriers and on-the-go accessories from Away, Tumi, Paravel, Amazon Basics, Monos, and July.

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The Best Suitcases for Checking

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

For many travelers, the frequently discussed dream is to never check a bag. But life doesn’t always cooperate—sometimes you need a bigger suitcase.

After researching 30 pieces of checked luggage and testing eight finalists over many years, we can still say that the Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the best suitcase for most travelers who plan to check a bag. The bag easily holds two weeks’ worth of clothes, and it looks and feels fantastic. And it comes with a limited lifetime warranty against airline damage.

Everything we recommend

Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner

The best checked bag for most travelers.

This bag provides a luxury feel at a reasonable price, with a capacity, warranty, and reliability that should suit most travelers. The 25-inch model should offer plenty of room for most travelers, without going over airline weight limits.

Buying Options

Travelpro Platinum Elite 29″ Expandable Spinner

Same suitcase, but bigger.

If you need a checked bag that gives you the maximum allowable space, and you don’t mind paying an overweight-bag fee, the 29-inch model is the way to go.

Away The Medium

The best hard-sided checked suitcase.

This great-looking, relatively resilient piece of hard-sided luggage matches our hard-sided carry-on pic. It has the same top-of-the-line components—including wheels that roll as smoothly as any we’ve tested.

Away The Large

The best large hard-sided checked suitcase.

If you need to maximize your allowed space, and you aren’t worried about weight limits, this bag is, as the name implies, the largest one Away makes. Apart from its extra capacity, it’s identical to The Medium.

Upgrade pick

Briggs & Riley Baseline Medium Expandable 26″ Spinner

Hefty luggage for a heftier price.

This bag provides the most satisfying packing experience money can buy. It can fit an additional week’s worth of clothing, when compressed, in the same amount of space as the Travelpro Platinum Elite bag offers.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Extra Large Expandable 31″ Spinner

The same durable bag, but bigger.

This bag is for anyone who needs a somewhat ludicrous amount of space. Fully expanded, this bag is the biggest we’ve found. Fair warning: If you fill it full of clothes, you’re all but guaranteed to exceed airline weight limits.

Monos Hybrid Trunk

This type of luggage brings back the classic silhouette of upright steamer trunks. Due to their design, trunks are considered by some to be easier to pack and to maneuver.

Use promo code MOM

Testing takeaways

We’ve found that the stated dimensions and weights of checked suitcases tend to be more accurate than those of their carry-on counterparts.

Wheel quality can affect how well carry-ons roll, but this is less true for checked bags—their weight smooths out the ride.

Handle shape and size often dictate a carry-on’s usable space. In roomier, checked bags, however, they’re less of a factor.

We considered how well a suitcase handles when it’s fully packed, how durable its materials are, and whether it’s comfortable to use.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the larger, checked-luggage version of our Travelpro carry-on top pick , and everything we like about its diminutive sibling applies again here.

It’s made of a hard-wearing nylon that’s both sleek and durable. And it looks and feels like a bag that costs a lot more than it actually does.

For a checked bag, it’s also surprisingly nimble. That’s thanks to the height-adjustable handle and the magnetically locking MagnaTrac wheels, which make the bag noticeably easier to maneuver—especially when it’s loaded with 50 pounds of stuff. And this suitcase is protected by a lifetime warranty, with stated protections against airline damages.

Internally, the Platinum Elite is well organized, and it includes a built-in garment folder for formalwear, with a removable folding board (similar to the one in our upgrade pick ). If you need a little more space, consider the Travelpro Platinum Elite 29″ Expandable Spinner .

Note that with luggage this capacious, it’s easy to overpack and exceed the 50-pound (22-kilogram) weight limit imposed by most airlines. But if you’re willing to pay the fee, the Platinum Elite can easily withstand the extra weight.

For anyone who enjoys the look and simplicity of hard-sided luggage—as well as the comfort of knowing that this one is virtually impossible to overpack— The Medium suitcase from Away is an excellent choice with an excellent warranty.

Soft-sided luggage typically has a longer lifespan than hard-sided bags, typically made of ABS plastic or polycarbonate. And soft-sided luggage typically has features like exterior pockets, making organization easier. However, the differences in durability and utility between hard- and soft-sided luggage are increasingly marginal, and plenty of people prefer the aesthetic and additional color options of polycarbonate suitcases.

Away builds its luggage with high-quality components. We tested the Away bag for three years before first recommending it. This suitcase has been our pick for over six years now, and we are confident in its long-term durability and the reputation of Away’s limited lifetime warranty . Away also makes a bigger checked-luggage model, The Large . We’ve found, however, that it’s very easy to overpack suitcases of this size, even ones that are hard-sided.

If you identify as a frequent flier or a serious overpacker, or if you have a large family and are willing to invest in higher-quality luggage for traveling, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Medium Expandable 25″ Spinner .

Although the Travelpro Platinum Elite is great for the price, the Briggs & Riley Baseline bag is great, period. Every detail is made to the highest standards of any luggage maker—from the zippers to the wheels to a unique compression system (which lets you fit an additional week’s worth of clothing into the same volume as offered by the Travelpro bag).

You won’t get the unique styling that other luxury brands specialize in, but Briggs & Riley’s reputation for reliability and durability is unmatched. The bag also includes a garment folder, as the Travelpro bag does.

If things go awry, user-replaceable parts and a network of repair centers located around the world make quick fixes easy, and the reliable lifetime warranty covers repairs for any kind of damage. We’ve traveled with this durable bag for six years now on multiple national and international trips. And it’s still in great shape and a dream to pack. Also, its expanding capability has rescued us more than once when we wanted to bring something extra home.

Trunk luggage, including the Monos Hybrid Trunk , replaces the 50/50 split of a clamshell design with a deeper central compartment. It’s a small change, and it makes packing this type of case very pleasant.

However, this luggage seems best for destination travel, when you pack up once and unpack once. Living out of a trunk requires more layers of packing and unpacking. So using trunk luggage across multiple stops could seem potentially onerous, compared with using a bag that has a typical clamshell design.

Monos continues to impress us with its luggage lines and construction. But the Hybrid Trunk stands out for its reinforced aluminum frame and denser-feeling polycarbonate, and it has a lifetime warranty for any damage that renders the luggage unusable.

The research

Why you should trust us, how we picked and tested, the best checked luggage: travelpro platinum elite 25" expandable spinner, our pick for the best hard-sided luggage: away the medium suitcase, upgrade pick: briggs & riley baseline expandable spinner, the best trunk pick: monos hybrid trunk, other good suitcases for checking, the competition, what to look forward to.

I’ve been covering luggage and travel-bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. Over the years, we’ve also spoken with plenty of experts : flight attendants for major airlines; product designers and creative directors for luggage and gear companies; and travel writers. My conversations with these people have helped shape our coverage, and we owe much to their collective knowledge.

We’ve spent more than 160 hours researching luggage, continually testing to understand what makes good luggage. In the nearly eight years we’ve covered this category, the products have evolved—and so has our thinking about what kind of luggage is best for most people. Based on what’s available and what different travelers prefer, we think the following travel bags are the best checked luggage you can currently find.

There may be thousands of different types of checked luggage available for sale. Even after we excluded models that didn’t meet our basic criteria—a reliable warranty, reputable luggage reviews, and quality materials—we found hundreds of bags worth testing. And we went on to evaluate the choices between nylon and polyester, the difference in wheel-bearing designs, why alloys in telescoping handles matter, and more.

Besides the suggestions from our experts, we researched editorial and user reviews of luggage, making sure to include popular brands, such as Samsonite and Tumi, as well as more-esoteric names, like Hideo Wakamatsu. In addition to our interviews with experts, we’ve spoken with assorted salespeople, brand engineers, and media-relations folks, to make sure we found the best models from each company.

If you want a general rundown of our testing process, check out the corresponding sections from our best carry-on luggage review , since our testing of the larger bags mirrored that process. But we did uncover some differences—mostly having to do with the larger size of checked luggage—that led us to modify our analysis.

The smaller the luggage, the more intricate the design must become to accommodate travelers’ needs. While testing carry-on luggage in the past, we found that company claims of luggage weight and measurements weren’t exactly precise, with capacities exaggerated and weights minimized. Oddly, for checked bags, we didn’t find so much fudging of the numbers. Our best guess is that with the looser size and weight restrictions for checked luggage, manufacturers aren’t as motivated to manipulate their figures when advertising their larger bags.

When we tested carry-ons, we noticed the varied and individual way that each bag handled rough surfaces, depending on their wheels and build quality. With checked bags, this wasn’t a problem. When any checked bag was fully packed, the weight carried it over the roughest of surfaces, without a strong discernable difference between models.

With bags this large, the subtler points of comparison aren’t as pronounced. For instance, the handle’s size and shape can significantly change a carry-on bag’s usable space and your overall packing experience. But when space limits aren’t an issue, this doesn’t really matter. As a result, we focused on the obvious design comparisons, including how these bags handled when full, how durable their materials were, and whether the bags were comfortable to use.

For the majority of families who fly less than 25,000 miles a year together, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the best choice for checked luggage.

It’s the bag to compare others against. The Platinum Elite suitcase is a durable, attractively styled, well-organized bag for a reasonable price. It holds a full seven days’ worth of clothes for two people, and it’s protected by a warranty that covers carrier damage, as long as you register the bag within 120 days of purchase. (The registration is a very simple process, and it can be done in 5 minutes with a smartphone: Simply take a picture of the registration code, which comes with the luggage; send that picture to a number Travelpro provides; and fill out the form in the response link .)

During a trip to New Zealand, our tester was able to pack two weeks’ worth of clothes—without a laundry stop—and several pieces of camera equipment into the Platinum Magna (the previous, largely identical model of the Platinum Elite) without issue. Like every large piece of checked luggage we tested, the Platinum Elite comes only in a four-wheel (or “spinner”) configuration. More wheels mean more bits with the potential to break (as well as some reduction of interior space), but that’s a necessary compromise for bags this size, if you want any hope of managing them in a busy airport.

It shrugs off wear and tear. The Platinum Elite’s exterior is made of ballistic nylon, which can take more overall abuse than polycarbonate and will show less wear in the long run. As we’ve said with regard to carry-ons , we don’t think polycarbonate hard-shell bags are as versatile or durable as soft-sided nylon bags. (Travelpro tests its bags by filling them with 70-pound loads and passing each handle through 7,500 automated lift tests.)

Hard-shell bags usually weigh about 4 pounds less than soft-sided equivalents. However, their increased failure rate and affinity for displaying scratches and wear aren’t worth it, unless the bag’s contents really need the extra protection from sharp jabs.

The soft fabric design allows for extra flexibility and the inclusion of exterior pockets, for quick access to small items. The Platinum Elite has two pockets: a flat one (suitable for documents and boarding passes) and an accordion-style one (which provides extra storage for miscellaneous small items; this can be a lifesaver if you’re traveling with kids and need quick access to extra-small toys, coloring books, clothes, or other supplies).

Organization makes the dream work. During her three-week trip in New Zealand, photographer Caleigh Waldman said of the earlier, nearly identical model in the Platinum line, “On this trip I never stayed in the same location for more than three days and was forced to constantly unpack, repack, and maneuver [the bag]. Usually living out of any suitcase makes me crazy, but the many zip compartments [of this bag], both inside and out, make it easy to compartmentalize your things. The pockets, zippers, and interior liner seemed sturdy, and the large pull-back cover allowed me to access everything I had in the bag with ease.”(Full disclosure: Years later we married, but I don’t think that influenced her review.)

Similar to its smaller Travelpro sibling, the Carry-On Rollaboard , this suitcase has a built-in garment folder (or “suiter”). Additionally, a 2-inch-wide expansion zipper runs along three sides of the Platinum Elite, allowing the bag to accordion-open a touch, if you need the extra space (though we found this more useful as a way to compress what you’ve already packed than as an additional-space-providing feature).

It moves through the world with ease. The Platinum Elite handles beautifully for its size. Its aluminum handle extends to three different heights (38 inches, 40 inches, and 42½ inches). Although every bag we tested for this guide had similar levels of maneuverability, the Premium Elite’s MagnaTrac wheels, which align in the same direction, rolled past the rest of the competition with ease. On smooth surfaces, like those found in airports, it felt as if the bag were almost directing itself across the floor.

During her trip, Caleigh appreciated this suitcase’s smooth rolling, even when the bag was overpacked, saying, “It was not always easy to maneuver on rough or gravelly surfaces. Overall, though, given the limitations of traveling with this much stuff, I thought [this bag] did a great job moving through a variety of environments.” And it has sealed wheel bearings; these extend the wheels’ life by preventing dirt and grime from entering and breaking down the components as quickly. That’s a feature not usually found on cheaper bags. And chances are good that if a bag isn’t clearly advertising sealed bearings, you should assume it doesn’t have them. If, for whatever reason, the wheels do break, you can easily swap them out yourself with Travelpro’s readily available replacements .

It’s light yet cavernous. The Platinum Elite weighs 9 pounds 8 ounces when empty, which is average to heavy among checked bags. That’s a workable weight, though, for the bag’s spacious, 6,982-cubic-inch interior—twice what its carry-on sibling can hold! But when you’re selecting luggage this large, weight shouldn’t be your primary concern because all of the bags we tested felt about equally heavy once fully packed. The important thing is that, in our testing, the Platinum Elite swallowed up a week’s worth of clothes for two people with no problem, with a good deal of room to spare.

Travelpro also sells a Platinum Elite model that’s 29 inches tall . It’s important to emphasize just how absurdly large this suitcase is for most people. Given its capacity of 7,710.6 cubic inches (143 liters), the challenge here is to pack without breaking airline weight limits. I suppose if you were on a (very) long cruise, a bag this size might make sense.

How the Platinum Elite has held up

After my wife’s world travels, a neighbor borrowed this bag for their children’s college travels (Hawaii to New York), making several trips over the past few years. The Platinum Elite is still going strong.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

We should note that bags of this size can hold almost too much. The Platinum Elite bag already weighs over 9 pounds. So when you pack it to its limits, it may be hard to keep it below the 50-pound weight limit of most airlines—and that means extra fees. But this is true of all checked luggage.

During her New Zealand trip, Caleigh Waldman packed the Platinum Magna 2 (29-inch model) for two weeks, with enough clothes, toiletries, and different types of shoes and activewear for the terrain. Though she didn’t fill the bag completely, she still found that her luggage came in over the 50-pound limit. “Every flight I took, I had to cough up the overweight-baggage fee, and it was a monster to carry up stairs and toss into car trunks,” she said.

We still think most travelers would be better off with one of our soft-sided picks than with a hard-sided carry-on. That’s because soft-sided luggage shows less wear and typically lasts longer than hard-sided luggage. But if you prefer the look of hard-sided luggage, or you want the security of knowing you can’t overpack your suitcase, Away’s The Medium is the one we recommend.

From wheels to warranty, it’s the best polycarbonate option. Its wheels and zipper are as well made as those of our soft-sided picks, and its polycarbonate showed fewer scratches than its hard-sided competitors. And it’s backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

It provides more than enough space. The Medium weighs 9.9 pounds and measures 26 by 18.5 by 11 inches—a fairly standard weight and size for checked luggage this size. (By comparison, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 25-inch bag weighs 9.8 pounds and measures 28 by 18.5 by 11.75 inches.) If you need extra room,  Away’s The Large offers the maximum allowed space in a piece of checked luggage. The Large weighs 11.6 pounds and measures 29 by 20.5 by 12.5 inches. But with bags this big, it’s easier to overpack and exceed airline weight limits, which is why we recommend the Away Medium for most people.

Don’t sweat the flex. The Away bag’s modern and minimalist look comes at a cost: Its polycarbonate shell is ultimately—according to every luggage designer we’ve ever interviewed—more likely to break than the nylon fabric of our other picks is to tear. Still, the shell feels similar to those of higher-end (and significantly more expensive) suitcases, such as the $1,000-plus Rimowa Essential Check-In M ; it’s strong and flexible, and the Away bag itself feels good in your hands.

Away builds its luggage with impressive components. The wheels are noticeably better than those on any of the hard-sided competitors we’ve tested. We’ve rolled these wheels across every conceivable surface, from cobblestone streets to the smoothest airport surfaces, and they were always a pleasure to use. When we first started testing The Away bag, in 2016, we found that flexibility to be a liability, especially on airport carpets. The first version of this bag that I tested tended to flex into itself and jam up its own wheels when I pushed it in front of me. But I haven’t had that issue with any of this suitcase’s latest models.

Its interior matches its minimal exterior. The Away bag’s interior is almost as bare-bones as its exterior. Unlike our other picks, this bag has no included suiter or suit folder, but you can buy one for $85 . The interior is split in half: One side closes with a zippered flap, and the other side has a built-in compression panel and straps, which work decently well.

It’s better to stick with the basics. We tested Away luggage for three years before making our recommendation. We traveled with it ourselves across the country, and we lent models of the bag to several testers and frequent travelers to see how they enjoyed using them. Away makes two similar models of checked suitcases with an expandable zipper: The Medium Flex and The Large Flex . For all intents and purposes, these are the same overall bags as the standard Medium and Large, except for the expanding center zipper and the price (they each cost $50 more). Personally, I’m not a fan of expanding zippers. They feel like potentially just one more thing to break. Also, they can increase the likelihood of exceeding the airline’s weight limit. But some people may prefer having the extra flexibility.

Like our other picks, the Away pairs with its matching carry-on : The models are virtually identical, except for their sizes. Matching your luggage sets is visually appealing. But the real value in matching your carry-on to your checked luggage is that the smaller suitcase can, when you’re back home, nest within the larger one. (This holds true for every set of luggage we’ve ever tested. Here’s why: Nesting luggage is the most economical way for luggage manufacturers to ship their wares from their factories overseas.)

The lack of a suit panel for important items, like dresses and suits, may limit this suitcase’s appeal for some travelers. With a bag that has this much space, though, there are other ways to pack fancy clothes (video) without wrinkling them.

If you fly more than 25,000 miles per year, it’s worth investing in luggage that goes beyond the minimums and somehow improves your travel experience. The Briggs & Riley Baseline Medium Expandable 25″ Spinner is that kind of bag. It costs more than twice as much as our top soft-sided pick, but after using all of these bags side by side, I’m sure there’s more than twice as much value hidden within this luggage: This is one of the best checked luggage systems we’ve found for international travel.

It has the best compression system. This suitcase’s most impressive feature is its compression system. Briggs & Riley’s proprietary compression system is superior to anything else we’ve seen—it allows you to fit an additional week’s worth of clothing into a bag with the same external dimensions as those of the Travelpro Platinum Elite suitcase. To manage it, you pull upward on two plastic handles inside the bag; this extends its depth by a full 2½ inches. Load the bag as full as you need to, and zip it closed without putting stress on the zippers. Then you simply push on the bag to compress it back down again, and a latch mechanism keeps it securely in place. Unlike cheaper zippered expansion systems, which are either fully open or closed (like the Delsey bag’s ), this one can lock in at variable degrees of expansion or compression. This suitcase is unique and satisfying to use. (If you prefer a polycarbonate shell, Briggs & Riley has designed a similar compression system around a hard-shell case, for its Sympatico Spinner line. Still, we prefer the pliability of a soft-sided shell for any compression system.)

Measuring the extra capacity of the Baseline isn’t exact. The bag’s base (that is, where the wheels are) measures an inch deeper than the top of the bag (where the handle is); this design is, I believe, to make the base of the bag heavier when fully packed. At the base, the exterior of the Baseline Medium measures 25 by 18.5 by 10 inches; expanded, it measures 25 by 18.5 by 12 inches.

It takes hits like a brick. The Baseline Medium’s exterior is wrapped in 1,680-denier ballistic nylon, which is durable and puncture resistant. (Denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric.) But even more impressive is what’s underneath the nylon. The Baseline Medium’s frame is the strongest we’ve seen among any of the soft-sided luggage we tested. This bag can take considerable pressure from any angle. Like the Travelpro Platinum Elite, the Baseline Medium has two external pockets: a small one for tickets and passports and a larger one for small items or light outerwear. Briggs & Riley also makes a 31-inch Extra Large version of this bag, with nearly 10,000 cubic inches of interior space. It’s a good bag, but we can’t see the point of something this large. As it is, you can easily exceed most airlines’ weight limits packing the Medium to capacity.

Similar to its carry-on version, the Baseline Medium’s handrail tubes are on the outside of the bag; this makes the inside back wall almost completely flat, so packing is easier because there are no crevices to work around. We liked this feature for lighter carry-on luggage, since exterior plastic handrail tubes can protect the bag when it’s going over an edge, without risking too much damage. However, that all changes when you’re bouncing a 50-pound bag over a curb; in that case, an exposed handrail system seems like an unnecessary risk, especially since there’s so much room for an internal rail system.

Trunks are a welcome new addition (reimagined from a somewhat older tradition) to checked-luggage lines. Longer than they are wide, modern travel trunks—including our pick, the Monos Hybrid Trunk —stand out against the more-common squat, square luggage of the last few decades.

It has a pleasant shape, and it’s easy to maneuver. The Monos Hybrid measures 30 by 15.7 by 14.3 inches, with a capacity of 6,735.3 cubic inches, and it weighs 13.2 pounds. Imagine something like a small steamer trunk, except without the team of stevedores to move it.

In our early testing, we’ve found that the Monos Hybrid, with its taller, narrower shape, is easier to wheel around than other checked luggage. There’s something about the four wheels’ relative proximity to one another that gives the trunk a remarkable agility across most surfaces. Its wheels make it handle more like a carry-on bag than the other checked luggage we tested.

It’s a pleasure to pack. This element is harder to explain. Packing the trunk somehow just feels more pleasant than packing other types of luggage. Maybe it’s the main compartment’s higher walls, which give a comforting feeling of placing your clothes deep within the confines of a box. Or perhaps it’s the shape’s somewhat vintage appeal, bringing up nostalgia for a type of travel you’ve never experienced except in movies. Packing clothes into the Hybrid Trunk for a long journey is like stepping back in time just for a moment.

That said, unlike the steamer trunks of yore, the modern Monos Hybrid doesn’t have a ton of extra organization. One side has a fabric cover that completely zips in the contents; the other side has a compression panel with two zippered pockets. That said, for most modern travelers using (I hope) a good set of packing cubes , these simple dividers should be plenty to keep everything in the right place.

The Hybrid Trunk does away with the standard zipper closure, opting instead for an aluminum frame that runs along the seam of the luggage, where a zipper might have been. The case has two TSA locks, which close with a satisfying latch. We’ve reviewed a few bags with latches like this, and they’re great. Our only concern is that these locks have lots of small moving components, which could be a weak point over time.

It’s made for long, tough journeys. The only trunk models we’ve seen so far are made of polycarbonate. The Monos Hybrid immediately stands out with three details: an aluminum frame around the center seam that reinforces the body of the luggage, aluminum corner guards, and a reassuringly robust polycarbonate.

The Monos Hybrid Trunk, like our other picks, is protected by a lifetime warranty.

• The one potential flaw we’ve found so far (we’ve tested trunks for only a few months) is that a trunk design may require more packing and unpacking to find what you need if you’re making lots of stops while traveling. A suitcase with a clamshell design, on the other hand, has both sides more or less open to you for easier access.
• Like the Away, the Monos Hybrid Trunk doesn’t have a dedicated suit folder or suit compartment for dresses or formal wear. Again though with this much space to pack in, there are a number of ways to protect clothes like this.

If the Monos Hybrid Trunk is unavailable: Consider Away’s The Trunk , which has a similar design (apart from having a zipper, instead of latches) for a similar price. However, though we’re generally fans of Away’s luggage, The Trunk isn’t as satisfying to use as the Monos Hybrid . The Away Trunk’s shell is flexible and its body is light, so it lacks the robust feel of the Monos Hybrid.

The Delsey Helium Aero , our previous hard-sided pick, comes in a 25-inch and a 29-inch version, so you can choose how much capacity you need. Like the Away suitcase, this bag is made of 100% polycarbonate, so it should last longer than cheaper, less-durable ABS plastic suitcases. However, Delsey’s 10-year limited warranty doesn’t match Away’s limited lifetime warranty.

Briggs & Riley makes excellent luggage, but we don’t think you need to spend this much on a hard-sided case without any extra frills, like the Briggs & Riley Torq Medium Spinner .

The Delsey Peugeot Large Trunk Spinner has a similar zipperless design as the Monos Hybrid, but the Peugeot bag lacks the corner guards and, more importantly, the lifetime warranty. Instead, the Peugeot is backed by a 10-year warranty.

Rimowa defined hard-sided luggage in the 1940s and redefined it in 2000, when it introduced polycarbonate luggage. But paying just over $1,000 for “virgin German polycarbonate” is silly. These bags, including the Rimowa Essential Check-In M , are smart-looking, though.

If you’ve ever wondered how much people pay for those handsome aluminum pieces of luggage, we’ll tell you: at least four figures. The Rimowa Classic Check-In M is twice as expensive as a ticket to Europe, yet it’s little more than a status symbol.

We also tested and dismissed Pelican and Samsonite suitcases that have since been discontinued.

We’re taking a look at the Level8 Voyageur Check-In . Its standout feature is the unusually wide handle, which seems to help its handling. The Level8 bag is less expensive than other luggage of its size and apparent quality. It’s also backed by a lifetime warranty. To make a decision, however, we do need to study the handle and the build quality a bit longer.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

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How To Pack A Suitcase, According To A Seasoned Traveler

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Learning how to pack a suitcase can make future trips seamless and stress-free. With plenty of helpful packing methods out there, it’s easy to maximize the limited space of your suitcase so that you can bring as much as possible, depending on your itinerary. The best way to pack a suitcase depends on the length of your trip and other factors, such as the season you’re traveling in and your travel style.

For cruises or a one-hotel trip where you won’t be changing accommodations often, you will only need to think about packing and repacking once. However, if you plan on changing hotels and cities often, you will be packing, unpacking and lugging your suitcase around throughout your trip, meaning you’ll need to have a plan in place. No matter your itinerary, we’ve outlined the best strategies to help you pack more strategically, as well as some essential items to make packing as easy as possible.

Litter-Robot 4 Review: The Best Self-Cleaning Litter Box On The Market

The best folding treadmills, according to fitness experts, what you will need to pack a suitcase:.

• Best Suitcase: Away The Bigger Carry-On
• Best Packing Cubes: Bagsmart Keep Shape Packing Cubes , Eagle Creek Pack-It Tube , JJ Power Travel Shoe Bag
• Best Toiletry Kit: Travelon Compact Hanging Toiletry Kit
• Best Tech Kit: ProCase Electronic Organizer
• Best Cosmetics Bag: Eachy Cosmetic Bag
• Best Jewelry Case: Bagsmart Travel Jewelry Organizer Case

Step 1: Consider The Type of Travel

Before you even open your suitcase, you should think about the kind of trip you’re going on and how much space essential items will take up. If you’re packing for a ski trip , you will need to bring heavier, snow-proof gear—but you can re-wear most of it. On a beach trip, your summer outfits will take up less space, but you will need more of them as you lather on sunscreen and deal with sand and sweat.

Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally also plays a role in how you pack. On a domestic trip, familiar products are easier to find and you don’t need to worry about packing adaptors to charge your electronics. When you’re flying internationally, there may be some necessities that will be difficult or impossible to find abroad.

Step 2: Decide On The Number of Items

After you’ve considered the essentials for the style of your trip, think about how long your trip will be. Short trips can be the easiest to pack for because you can get away with squeezing in a little bit more than you need, while longer trips of two weeks or more are not so bad if you count on doing laundry somewhere along the way. I’ve found that I’m more likely to overpack on a week-long trip when I don’t think I will have a chance to do laundry and want to be prepared for a few different weather scenarios.

Start with this basic breakdown of how many of each item you should aim to pack depending on how long you’ll be traveling for—with optional items included if you’re traveling somewhere you expect to swim. If you plan on hitting the hotel gym or going for a jog or a bike ride, you should also bring along one outfit for working out and a pair of sneakers.

Weekend Trip

For a weekend trip, you really only need three outfits, or four if it’s a three-day weekend. This includes one nice outfit for going out to dinner, but it does not include what you’ll wear on the way to your destination.

• 1-2 bottoms
• 1 dress (optional)
• 1 pajama set
• 1 swimsuit (optional)
• 3 pairs of socks
• 3 pairs of underwear
• 1 pair of comfortable shoes
• 1 pair of “going-out” shoes (optional)
• Toiletry bag with essentials (toothpaste, sunscreen, makeup, etc.)
• Chargers and electronics

On a seven-day trip, you will need to pack clothes that can easily be mixed and matched, while prioritizing items that you can use multiple times, like jackets, jeans and sweaters that can handle multiple wears between washes. Always pack extra underwear and socks on a longer trip, especially if you’re doing a lot of physical activity.

• 2-3 bottoms
• 1-2 dresses (optional)
• 1-2 swimsuits (optional)
• 8 pairs of socks
• 8 pairs of underwear
• 1 pair of comfortable close-toed walking shoes
• 1 pair of sandals or flip-flops (optional)

Two-Week Trip Or Longer

If you’re traveling for two weeks or longer, you should plan to do laundry at some point during your trip so you can pack less and have a fresh start somewhere in the middle of your travels. However, things don’t always go according to plan, so you should still pack more than one week’s worth of clothes just in case.

• 3-4 bottoms
• 2-3 dresses (optional)
• 8-14 pairs of socks
• 8-14 pairs of underwear

Step 3: Choose The Packing Methods And Products To Help You Pack

If you are flying carry-on only, all of your liquids must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces and fit in a clear quart-sized bag. If you check your luggage you can bring toiletries that go over this size limit, but you should still pack, wrap and secure them tightly in plastic bags so that if they they leak during transit, the rest of your items will not be ruined.

To keep your toiletries organized throughout your trip, you’ll need a hanging bag like the Travelon Compact Hanging Toiletry Kit . This particular bag is a great choice as it allows you to see everything laid out just how you left it and it’s quick to pack up. However, if you need more space for a large makeup collection, check out the super spacious and customizable Eachy Cosmetic Bag .

Dress Shirts

To minimize wrinkles in your best shirts, use the narrow fold method. Button up the shirt and lie it flat with the buttons facing down. Fold the sleeves across the back of the shirt and then up at a 90-degree angle until the cuffs line up with the collar. Fold the sides to overlap on top of the sleeves, and fold the fest of the shirt up from the bottom until you have a neat square package. You may still have to iron out the folds when you arrive.

To protect your shoes while traveling, pack them in a separate waterproof bag and fill any empty space with socks or other small soft items that will give them extra protection and help them keep their shape. You can use a plastic bag if you’re in a pinch, but these waterproof shoe bags are specifically designed to hold their shape and have an extra pocket to fit a pair of flip flops.

Packing Cubes

These essential travel tools make a world of difference when it comes to keeping your suitcase organized, but most people use them wrong. Your first instinct might tell you to put pants with pants and shirts with shirts, but the most effective way I’ve found to use packing cubes—especially on a trip with multiple transfers— is to group clothing by activity.

Keep your day-to-day sightseeing clothes in a separate cube from your going-out-for-dinner clothes or beach-gear cube. When it’s time to get dressed, you’ll have your outfit pre-planned and I also find that it’s also a good way to store accessories. For example, I always bring my favorite microfiber beach towel with me, so I keep this in a separate cube with my swimsuits, a beach dress and a sun hat. When I’m not looking for my beach clothes, it doesn’t get in the way and it doesn’t get lost.

I prefer cubes with some shape, like these BagSmart packing cubes , but I also like to mix it up. I’ve found that the Eagle Creek Pack-It Tube is the best shape for storing my rolled socks and underwear, which I always keep in my carry-on in case my luggage gets lost.

If you love to accessorize, you’ll need a system to prevent your favorite jewelry from getting left behind in random hotel rooms. Instead of bringing along a hard-sided jewelry box which could tangle your necklaces as they get jostled around, try a folding jewelry organizer like this case from BagSmart , available in three sizes.

Electronics

In addition to a good case for your laptop or tablet, you should also have a separate organizer case for all your wires, chargers, portable batteries, and hard drives. If you’re bringing a lot of electronics, protect them with a hard-sided case like this ProCase Electronic Organizer , which has multiple compartments and partitions to keep your gear tangle-free.

Is It Better To Roll Or Fold Clothes In A Suitcase?

If your goal is to fit as much as possible into your suitcase, rolling is the way to go. However, if you need your clothes ready to go as soon as you land and won’t have time for ironing, folding is preferable. The best strategy is to do a bit of both, rolling items like underwear and pajamas, but folding nice shirts and dresses.

What Is The 5 4 3 2 1 Packing Method?

The 5 4 3 2 1 packing method maximizes potential outfit combinations so you can express your personal style. It works by assigning a number to each category of clothing: 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 shoes, 2 dresses, and 1 bag. It’s a good jumping-off point, but you may need to adjust the numbers for longer or shorter trips.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

From meticulously testing and reviewing the best luggage to bring with you to the airport to the best packing cubes to keep you organized, we at Forbes Vetted have dedicated ourselves to helping make travel easy. When it came time to put together a guide to packing a suitcase, we applied the same unyielding commitment to ensure that our readers have everything they need on hand to pack for their trips stress-free.

To break down how to pack a suitcase, we tapped the expertise of freelance travel writer Jamie Ditaranto . Along with contributing to Forbes Vetted, Ditaranto has spent the last eight years writing travel content for Condé Nast Traveler , Travel + Leisure , National Geographic and more. She has lived in Mexico, Spain, Portugal and Brazil and has visited all seven continents. As someone who is always packing for a trip, Ditaranto put her first-hand expertise as a frequent packer to the test for this story.

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What size suitcase is best for 1 week business trip?

For a one-week business trip, a medium-sized suitcase is usually recommended. A suitcase with a capacity of around 23 to 26 inches (or 58 to 66 cm) is suitable for carrying enough clothes, shoes, toiletries, and other essentials for a week-long trip. This size provides plenty of space. If you need to carry heavy items, have trouble walking, or need to take longer walks, consider electric ride-on luggage . You can carry your belongings without being too bulky and expending too much energy on the trip. It's always a good idea to check the specific baggage restrictions of your airline to ensure your suitcase meets their requirements.

Understanding the Needs:

Before determining the best suitcase size, it's essential to understand your specific requirements for the one-week business trip. Consider factors such as the climate and dress code at your destination, the number of formal events or meetings you'll attend, and any additional activities or leisure time you might have. This will help you estimate the amount and type of clothing, footwear, and accessories you need to pack.

Factors to Consider:

• Duration: A one-week business trip typically requires packing enough clothes for each day, including formal attire for meetings and events. Remember to consider if you will have access to laundry facilities during your trip.
• Personal Preferences: Some individuals prefer to have more outfit options, while others are comfortable with fewer choices. Consider your personal style and how frequently you are willing to repeat outfits.
• Climate: The weather at your destination is a crucial factor. If you are traveling to a place with variable weather conditions, you may need to pack additional layers or outerwear.

Airline Restrictions :

Check the baggage restrictions of the airline you are flying with. Most airlines have specific guidelines regarding size and weight limits for carry-on and checked luggage. You can avoid extra fees or delays at the airport by adhering to these restrictions. Generally, a carry-on suitcase is a convenient choice for a one-week trip to save time and ensure your belongings are always with you.

Ideal Suitcase Size:

Based on the factors mentioned above, a medium-sized suitcase is often the best option for a one-week business trip. A suitcase with a capacity of around 23 to 26 inches (or 58 to 66 cm) provides sufficient space to pack essentials without being overly bulky or heavy. This size allows you to neatly organize your clothing, accessories, and toiletries.

Additionally, consider suitcases with compartments or built-in organizational features, such as garment sections or shoe pockets. These can help maximize space and keep your belongings well-arranged.

Packing Tips:

To optimize space and keep your belongings organized.

• Plan your outfits in advance and choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched.
• Roll your clothes or use packing cubes to save space and minimize wrinkles.
• Utilize empty spaces, such as shoes or the insides of hats, to store smaller items.
• Pack travel-sized toiletries to save space and comply with airline regulations.
• Carry essential documents, electronics, and valuables in your carry-on bag.

Choosing the right suitcase size is crucial for a one-week business trip. A medium-sized suitcase of approximately 23 to 26 inches provides ample space without being cumbersome. By considering your specific needs and adhering to airline restrictions, you can pack efficiently and ensure a hassle-free business trip experience. Bon voyage!

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Choosing the Right Size Luggage for a One-Week Trip

By Happy Sharer

Introduction

A one-week trip is a great way to get away and explore a new place. But before you can start packing, you need to decide what size luggage is best for your trip. Choosing the right size luggage can make or break your vacation. It’s important to consider the type of trip you are taking, the amount of items you will be bringing with you, and the size and weight restrictions of your airline. With the right size luggage, you can ensure that your belongings are safe and secure during your travels.

A Guide to Choosing the Right Size Luggage for a One-Week Trip

When it comes to choosing the right size luggage for a one-week trip, there are a few things to consider. First, think about your destination and type of trip. Are you going on a beach vacation, a business trip, or a backpacking excursion? Knowing this information will help you narrow down your choices. Next, think about what you will be bringing with you. Do you plan on packing light or do you need to bring a lot of items? Finally, determine how much you are willing to spend. Depending on your budget, you may have to opt for a more affordable option.

Packing Smart: How to Choose the Perfect Luggage for a Week-Long Trip

Once you have determined the type of trip you are taking and the items you will be bringing with you, it’s time to decide between a carry-on bag or a full luggage set. Carry-on bags are ideal for those who are planning on packing light. They are usually smaller in size and won’t take up too much space in the overhead bin. Full luggage sets are great for those who need to bring a lot of items with them. When comparing features of various bags, look for ones with multiple compartments, strong zippers, and comfortable straps. Additionally, consider the material of the bag. Nylon, polyester, and leather are all popular options. Choose a bag that fits your needs and meets your budget.

What is the Ideal Bag Size for a One-Week Vacation?

The ideal bag size for a one-week vacation depends on the size and weight restrictions of your airline. Most airlines will allow you to bring one bag that is no larger than 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches. The weight limit for most airlines is 50 pounds. If you are planning on bringing more than one bag, it’s important to take into account the size of your personal items. For example, if you are bringing a laptop, camera, or other large items, you may need to bring a larger bag. Additionally, consider the size of the bag in relation to the rest of your luggage. If you are bringing multiple bags, make sure they are not too big or too small.

The Best Luggage Sizes for a One-Week Getaway

When it comes to finding the perfect luggage for a one-week getaway, there are several sizes to choose from. Small carry-on bags are perfect for those who are looking to pack light. These bags are usually small enough to fit under an airplane seat and are perfect for short trips. Medium-sized checked luggage is ideal for those who need to bring more items with them. These bags typically come with wheels and plenty of storage space. Large checked luggage is better suited for longer trips. These bags can hold more items and are sturdier than smaller bags.

What Type of Luggage Should I Bring on a One-Week Trip?

When deciding what type of luggage to bring on a one-week trip, there are three main options: rolling suitcases, duffel bags, and backpacks. Rolling suitcases are the most popular choice and are great for those who are traveling with a lot of items. Duffel bags are lightweight and versatile; they can be used as a carry-on or a checked bag. Backpacks are perfect for those who are looking to travel light. They are easy to carry and are great for day trips.

How to Determine the Right Luggage Size for a One-Week Trip

Before you purchase any luggage, it’s important to measure the size of each item you intend to bring. This will give you an idea of how much space you will need. Once you have a rough estimate, take into account any extra items you may need to add. This could include a phone charger, a laptop, or extra clothing. Finally, calculate the total size of all items you are bringing. This will help you determine the best luggage size for your one-week trip.

What to Consider When Selecting the Right Luggage for a One-Week Vacation

When selecting the right luggage for a one-week vacation, there are a few factors to consider. First, look for a bag that is durable and made of high-quality materials. You don’t want your bag to break after just a few uses. Second, consider the price. If you are on a tight budget, opt for a more affordable option. Third, think about the weight. A heavier bag may be more difficult to carry around. Make sure to find a bag that balances durability, price, and weight.

Choosing the right size luggage for a one-week trip can be challenging. It’s important to consider your destination and type of trip, what items you will be bringing with you, and the size and weight restrictions of your airline. Additionally, when selecting the right luggage, make sure to consider factors such as durability, price, and weight. With the right size luggage, you can ensure that your belongings are safe and secure during your travels.

(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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One Bag Travel: The Fashionista’s Guide to a Lugagge Free Minimalist Packing List

Packing , Packing Tips

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I just spent a one week summer vacation luggage free –I packed all my stuff into my favorite purse! Think carryon or one bag travel is impossible for fashionistas? Well, there’s no more excuses! Check out my minimalist packing list!

One Bag Travel: Go Luggage Free

Packing light doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style! That’s what TFG is all about: we help you make smart packing choices while staying true to your personal style when creating your travel capsule wardrobe .

In one of my lightest packing feats yet, in this article  I showed you how I traveled with a small carryon for a four-week trip to Colombia and Portugal, including a two-week cruise across the Atlantic Ocean.

Inspired by my ability to downsize on that trip, I wanted to take even less on a one week vacation in July. However, little did I know that I was going to end up with my lightest packing accomplishment ever!

I packed for a one week summer vacation luggage free in my Rebecca Minkoff Backpack !

Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack

And the best part? On both trips I didn’t sacrifice any of my girly needs. I still brought all of my makeup, flat iron, two pairs of cute shoes, and fun feminine clothing, too!

While this may not sound very impressive since it was only a one week trip (not a four week trip  like my last one ), remember that packing for a longer trip doesn’t mean you have to pack more stuff, it just means you have to do laundry once a week as needed.

The major advantage I had with this minimalist packing list is that I was traveling in hot weather.

However, I could’ve easily packed three less items (party dress, one pair of shorts, and one top) to save even more space. I could have also sacrificed for one bag travel by leaving behind some girly luxuries like my makeup bag or flat iron.

Read the Rebecca Minkoff Julian backpack review including feedback from our readers!

But why would I want to forego my personal style when I don’t have to?

Another major plus on this trip is that I wasn’t planning to work since I was only going away for one week. As a digital nomad, normally I have to bring my arsenal of tech anywhere I go, but in this case, my iPhone was all I needed.

And as an avid scuba diver, I usually also bring my diving essentials wherever I travel but not on this trip. It was just a one week vacation with friends including a road trip!

My item of choice for one bag travel: the top right black leather backpack

I flew into Guadalajara where our road trip began with a stop in Tequila (the home of tequila), three nights in Puerto Vallarta, and then three nights in Guadalajara.

There were six adults in the SUV (three couples) and while there was plenty of space for us, there wasn’t much space for our stuff! Between purses and luggage, there were twelve bags total – boy, am I glad I decided to go luggage free!

It was fun getting a chance to take a break from all my long-term travel gear and just pack for a one week vacation.

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

This was my “non-minimalist” minimalist packing list:

My one bag travel efforts consisted of a 9-Piece Travel Essentials Packing List , two pairs of shoes, toiletries, and all my girly essentials. I needed enough to last for eight days without doing laundry (except for undies).

My activities included: two pool days in Puerto Vallarta, a day tour in Tequila, two sightseeing days in Guadalajara, three dinners at nice restaurants, and three travel days.

Watch the video to see how everything fit into my purse and when you’re done, read the rest of the post below for even more details!

Don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube Channel for access to all my packing videos!

Here’s a full summary of everything I packed including what’s inside each organizer and all the clothing that I packed! 

Slim Packing Cube including:

• Coral sleeveless top
• Black sleeveless top
• Olive green shorts
• Black dressy shorts
• Blue printed summer dress
• Blue printed party dress
• 6 undies (5 thongs, 1 boyshort)
• 1 underwire bra
• 1 underwire bikini
• Fitness tee (to sleep)
• Fitness shorts (to sleep)

EZ Packing Cube (small clear organizer for toiletries) 

• Face wash, eye cream, and face moisturizer stored in small, stackable travel containers
• 2 oz shower gel
• 3 single use shampoo packets (I only wash my hair every 2-3 days)
• 1 oz conditioner
• 2 oz body moisturizer
• Small sunblock stick
• 10 ear buds
• 1 razor (I used the conditioner as shaving cream)
• Full size electric toothbrush without charger (fully charged it lasts 6-8 days)
• Travel size liquid deodorant

NOTE : in the video I say that the above organizer also has my daily essentials but it doesn’t. I got confused with a trip I took the following week!

Small pouch for daily essentials:

• Antibacterial wipes
• A few bobby pins
• 1 ribbon hair tie
• Tiny nail file
• Travel size hair brush
• Two tampons
• One panty liner
• Half strip of antihistamines
• Half strip of motion sickness pills
• Half strip of painkillers

Small pouch for makeup (also used as a clutch):

• Foundation in 10ml travel container
• Highlighter stick
• Concealer pot
• Eyebrow pencil
• Tiny eyeshadow palette
• Two double sided brushes
• Blush Brush
• Travel size mascara
• Nars multiple stick
• Stud earrings

Other items stored in backpack purse:

• Naot walking sandals
• 1” Flat iron
• Small tissue packet
• iPhone in wristlet (doubles as wallet)
• Ray-Bans in their case
• iPhone charger

Capsule Wardrobe inspired by Essentials Packing List (one party dress not shown)

NOT IN THE BACKPACK:

Usually I also pack my travel outfit in my luggage to ensure I’m never maxed out on space. However, for a one week trip I decided it would be okay not to include the clothing I wore on the plane.

This is what I wore on the flight (top left pic):

• Anatomie white travel pants
• H&M White sleeveless top
• Black zara jacket (sold out)
• Nude underwire bra
• Nude smoothing shorts
• Tan/mustard lace up sandals
• Y-chain necklace
• Pointy triangle stud earrings

I emptied my backpack upon arrival at my accommodation in order to use it each day. For evenings, I used my makeup bag as a clutch and left my phone behind.

One very important thing to note is that the Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack is probably about 10 liters of space, so even if you needed to bring one or two more slim packing cubes or a larger organizer in general, you can still follow this one bag travel concept and use a slightly more spacious purse.

I’d say most women’s handbags are double the size of this backpack purse!

If you need more space, you could be more strategic with the items you wear on the plane:

• You could wear your bulkiest shoes (which I didn’t).
• Wear another clothing item or two on the plane.
• Wear a smaller purse to hold a few more essentials (I just used my makeup bag as a clutch at night and my backpack during the day).
• Use a cute waist belt for your passport and other essentials so you’re as hands free as possible while traipsing around the airport and sightseeing.
• Place items in your coat pockets (my jacket didn’t have pockets).

As a style-conscious long-term traveler, downsizing my 65 liter backpack to a 40 liter carry on was a major accomplishment in 2012. Over the years I not only worked to pack fewer items, but I’ve also made a serious effort to lighten my load by using unique travel containers , choosing the best fabrics , and opting for compact versions of larger items.

In the process, however, I have always stood by Travel Fashion Girl’s motto: Minimize Your Luggage, Maximize Your Style.

And personal style is never worth sacrificing because it IS possible to carry fewer items–not just by using “travel tech fabrics”–but by strategically choosing only items you feel good wearing!

Here are a few pics from my trip!

And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “ Stop Overpacking “. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.

Learn more about Stop Overpacking here !

Want a winter version of this minimalist packing list? Stay tuned for my luggage free challenge when the temperature drops!

Do you have any tips for one bag travel? Share and comment below!

For more tips on how to pack light, please read the following:

• 75 Packing Tips that Will Make Your Travels So Much Easier
• How to Fit Everything in a Carryon (Video Tutorial)
• Ten Step Packing Guide for One Bag Travel
• How to Choose the Best Travel Shoes

We hope you liked this post on one bag travel and my fashionista-approved minimalist packing list. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

90 comments.

This was the very first blog post of yours I ever read and also saw the video of your packing the Julian for your trip. I bought my Julian backpack purse in 2018 and I have been following you ever since! Still love that purse and use it all the time! Love that there is a whole community that share ideas and tips. Keep it going!

Hi Alex, I’ve been a fan for years! Question: Roberta Minkoff now has a jumbo size Julian backpack. Thoughts on that? I’m unsure which to purchase…the regular or jumbo? Also, do you notice if RM or Nordstrom or Amazon comes out with more color options during a particular time of year? They are fairly limited right now. (July 2022)

Hi Courtney, I am afraid that I have only tried the regular size bag so can’t really comment on the jumbo size. I have always been happy with the regular size.

You might find my review helpful to learn what I can fit in my regular purse: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/rebecca-minkoff-julian-backpack-review/

And yes they do tend to have more color options but for nordstrom, in particular, they tend to come available and sell out fairly quickly. Is there a particular style you would prefer?

Love this so much. I’m currently making a leather backpack for short business trips that will be 9L and your posts have confirmed it will be the perfect size. I can’t wait to pack it for the first time.

That is awesome to hear Samantha, so happy to have helped. Hope you have an incredible time on your travels! 💕

I’m laughing because I’ve been a fan for years and almost always travel with a carryon. Tomorrow I’m traveling up to Washington to visit my kids and other family and this is what I’ve packed in my car: 3 sewing machines, 3 boxes of sewing fabrics, pattern, scissors, etc, 3 boxes of clothes that no longer fit for my sister, 3 boxes of presents for grandchildren, a cooler with all the food from my refrigerator, some hanging clothes an 2 boxes of clothes because I’ve lost weight and none of the clothes I have up there will fit. I feel like I’m the role model for anti-carryon!

Hi Kathy, everyone is different! It’s about packing and traveling in a way that makes sense for you. Hope you have the most amazing time with your family! ❤️

We wrote a post about this to change the carryon misconception: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/traveling-carry-on-only/

Love this- and your outfits! I’m not sure how you had enough clothes without laundry for every day, including a dry swimsuit? Would love to see a breakdown of each event ( day, night etc) and what you wore. And did you use the travel shoes for your party dress? Thanks!

Hi Stephanie, thank you!!! Have a look at TFG’s signature packing lists for ideas for a capsule wardrobe and how many clothing items you could pack, I based this trip on our Minimalist Packing List: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/functional-and-fashion-packing-list/

The vacation packing list is for indefinite travel. Generally speaking, you can pack enough for one week then do laundry once a week depending on the duration of your trip.

The clothing is shown above the section that says: Capsule Wardrobe inspired by Essentials Packing List (one party dress not shown).

Hope this helps!

love this post and have re-read it several times. i am in the UK and prefer to travel carryon only where i can. i prefer wheeled mini suitcases to backpacks (easier to use) but i would like to suggest a couple of items to you Alex that i have found invaluable. all my handbags are from The Healthy Back Bag Company (they are based in London, UK) and they make a Baglett which i have 6 of in diff colours. i find that they can hold a decent sized phone (i have the Galaxy S8) and a purse plus lippie and keys.i use this as my evening bag. i also have their Large Baglett which holds my passport and phone plus hairbrush lipbalm gum tissues and mini notepad and pen – ideal for flights.

Hi Carrie, so pleased you enjoyed the post!! Thank you for sharing your recommendation for a purse with us, always love hearing about our readers favorite products! Happy travels! ?

Hi, great tips. I have the rucksack “regular” size the slightly larger one but to me seems super small. The one you are showing seems much bigger. Which size do you have?

Hi there, thank you for reaching out! So pleased you found the article helpful. The backpack is the Rebecca Minkoff Julian and I have it in the regular size (which is also known as the large), you can read my review of it here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/rebecca-minkoff-julian-backpack-review/ Hope this helps! 🙂

I love this post. I can’t believe I found it again so easy. Always inspiring. I love that you didn’t skimp and brought your flat iron.

Hi Lisa, thank you so much for your lovely comment, so happy to hear that you enjoyed the post! ?

I just discovered this post and I’m wondering if you ever got around to the luggage free winter trip and if so how it went.

Hi Whitney, thank you for your comment! Let me look into this for you!

Just came across this bag – reminds me of the Rebecca Minkoff bag you love: https://m.shop.nordstrom.com/s/vince-camuto-small-giani-leather-backpack/4641672?origin=topnav&cm_sp=Top%20Navigation-_-Get%20Inspired-_-New%20Arrivals&page=4&top=24

Great post. I tried to find this back pack but am not sure I found the same one. I know it comes in multiple sizes, and the one I bought also has the zippered pocket on the back (the smaller one does not) but I don’t think it is as large as yours.

Where did you get it?

I’m totally inspired by you! I LOVE this idea…totally petrified of it, but love it just the same. I’m the king of over packing. I can never decide what to bring, and usually pack twice as much as I need. As a petite woman, I feel like sometimes my luggage weighs more than I do!!! Thank you for the tips and inspiration. Can you also post more on where you bought some of your clothes. They look amazing, and obviously travel well. Thank you.

I followed your advice this past spring. I went to two climates Holland and Cape Town, SA. I used a 12 piece module[ 6 winter, 6 summer items]. My bag weighed only 22 lbs. I wore all items.

Yay Awesome job 🙂 I’m glad the tips helped you travel light!

Love your sight and all your help ….just have 3 questions: 1. Any cheaper options for a stylish backpack/purse? I love yours. It cannot cover the $. 2. Brand of flat iron dual voltage for Europe? 3. Heading to Rome in mid March. Any ‘Must have’ fashion item? Thanks! Nancy

This has totally inspired me to evaluate my packing to travel with less. And to get a backpack purse. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks for sharing Muriel! Happy travels!

This is honestly extremely impressive – Sadly I do not think I will ever be able to pack this light because my camera equipment alone takes up so much space, but I definitely like the message here and have worked on downsizing considerably when I travel.

Thank you for your kind words Rae! Every little bit helps when it comes to simplifying your packing! Safe travels!

Thanks for this post! I just recently went to Europe for the first time last spring for 3+ weeks. Your website inspired me to pack a 44l backpack (and no personal item) for the trip with less than 17lbs because of a plane ride we had booked. It took strategy because we had different weather between Paris, Barcelona, a cruise, and Greece. I had everything I needed for the trip plus room for the Louis Vuitton tote that I just had to get in Paris and hauled the entire trip. (My pack included a puff jacket and raincoat, which I used.) I was glad I didn’t pack any heavier because the 17lbs felt heavy quickly. Our next trip will be to Germany and surrounding countries in fall for at least 3 weeks maybe longer. I am toying with a 26l bag and maybe a 10lb limit for comfort. I can be a one shoe person with the right shoes and I am eyeing some short Birkenstock boots. (I have the Rebecca Minkoff backpack purse and have loved it. Bought it for running around Manhatten. I will have to try using it as my luggage for a trip.) Thanks for all of the tips! I didn’t think it was possible to meet the airline requirements, but with sites like yours it was possible. I do love my clothes so this has been an interesting process! I absolutely loved Europe, the people and the food!

Thanks for the note KC! Glad you’ve found our advice useful! Sounds like you’ve had some great travels!

This was amazing! I also looked at your video on YouTube, Alex. Since you manage to pack minimally and fashionably, it would be very helpful to see how you packed your eBags Slim Packing Cube. I would have like seeing the pictures of the clothes you bought (and how you mix and match them) in this post. You wrote it all down, but I find a visual extremely helpful.

Thanks Maura! This is how I pack my packing cubes: https://travelfashiongirl.com/packing-cubes-video-tutorial-learn-how-to-pack-light/ The clothing is shown above the section that says: Capsule Wardrobe inspired by Essentials Packing List (one party dress not shown)

Absolutely love the Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack! I just used it on a two day trip to San Francisco. Thank you for sharing your travel style!

Thanks for reading Jessica! Glad you like the bag! Safe travels!

Wow! My dream is to travel luggage free some day! Very inspirational post.

Thanks for reading Diane! You can totally do it! Happy travels!

Thank you Diane! You can totally do it, we believe in you! Little steps at a time! Safe travels!

Absolutely love it – and I love that it gives me a new challenge! I have a 1 month trip to India and the Philippines coming up (for work) but now I am rethinking my packing strategy.

Thanks for reading Lauren! Glad we could help!

Really inspired by your website and it helped hugely on my recent holiday to Prague even though I did go over on toiletries – whoops!! But still was under the allowance so its a small win!!

Thanks Hannah 🙂 I’m glad you found it useful! Sounds like a big win to me!

This was so inspiring. I really want to get back to my minimalist packing roots. And I think I need a Rebecca Minkoff backpack/purse thingee too.

I Love my Rebecca Minkoff purse but it can be done with any purse of a similar size 🙂 You can do it!

Wonderful photos! The trip looks absolutely amazing!

And I love that you travelled with SO LITTLE for that trip!!!

Thanks Phebe 🙂 It was wonderful!

Realizing it is possible and easier to travel with one bag is fantastic. I remember the days of dragging monster suitcases throughout train and subway stations. It was horrible

I totally agree! Light travel is the way forward!

WOW! I was so inspired by this post. While I’ve been following TFG for nearly two years now, and work harder every trip to pack more lightly, this post encouraged me to tote just my backpack for a recent 6-day trip to Chicago where I visited with family. There were two “fancy” parties on the agenda (a niece’s 19th birthday party, and another niece’s first baby shower), so that meant packing two nice going-out outfits. And, since I was going to be around multiple family members the rest of the time, I didn’t want to look like I was wearing the same clothes all the time. I managed to do it, toting my full-sized laptop, an additional pair of shoes, and limited toiletries. I still overpacked (didn’t need a pair of shorts and tee I’d packed), but it worked out well. Next time, I’d probably rather bring a rolling tote (easier on my back) but still I impressed myself! Thanks TFG; couldn’t have done it without you!

Nice work! Anyone can do it 🙂

Very inspiring, hopefully I can eventually get to this minimalist stage

You can do it 🙂

This is like a traveling fashionista’s holy grail! I’m so impressed! I tend to travel light already, but I’d never dream of achieving this. Very useful post, thank you!

Thanks for reading Eleanna! We appreciate the compliment! But even more so, are happy the post helps! Keep traveling 🙂

This is a fab guide! Everything is so condensed! Jabeen x

Thank you for reading Jabeen! Appreciate the feedback! We love giving packing tips in simple, easy to digest formats! Happy travels!

Did they let you bring liquid make up like foundation? Customs wouldn’t let my husband bring an opened bottle of contact lens solution or a small bottle of hand cream in his carry on for a flight from Canada to the US!

I take liquid foundation in a small travel container. Each item should fit into a 100ml container, which should all fit into a smaller seethrough bag. Have a look at this post for ideas http://bit.ly/2auozV1

I had an uncle that was a world traveler and only carried on satchel bag with him at all times. this contained 2 pairs of underware, 1 white cotton shirt that he could wash and dry by the next morning and some shorts. He did this for years to the amazement of his fellow travelers!

This is awesome 🙂 I can see why he impressed them!

Love your site! So many helpful tips! Have traveled quite a bit but the older I get, the more I want to lessen the load while still looking decent. Am anxious for my next trip to try many of your fantastic tips! Thank you for taking the time to enlighten us al!! I appreciate you!

You’re welcome Shannon 🙂 It’s always nice to hear the posts are helping people!

Our last trip to Rome, we managed to get a week’s worth of clothes for each of us into one regulation-sized backpack — you inspire and challenge us! Besides, we’re there to have fun, not to worry about having more clothes than we really need 😉 Thanks again for sharing!

Nice Work 🙂 Exactly, the stress of packing is really not needed!

Love all the tips! I want to adapt the light packing travel, lifestyle! And everything helps!!!

Great timely article, I’m currently trying to pack for a four day road trip (2 out/2 back) and 8 days of business meetings with two formal dress dinners. I’ll wear jeans for the road trip and will be required to wear specific pants for one event. I prefer skirts for sitting in hours of lectures for comfort. Thanks, for providing a guide to decrease what I have to pack. Loving your site! Hopefully to go on a trip one day where I can pack light in one small backpack.

I’m glad you found it useful 🙂 Have a look at this business trip packing list for more ideas http://bit.ly/2anbdHm

This is my goal for every trip!!

Seriously impressed! And great inspiration for my next trip 🙂

Thanks Danielle 🙂 Anyone can do it!

Great post! I have one year of travel coming up, and can’t wait to try some of your ideas. My most minimal packing so far was a 3-day trip with my Tumi Knox backpack, but with your tips I think I can do it your way. We’ll be based in Hong Kong, taking shorter trips out of there, so your post is very relevant for me. Thanks for the inspiration!

Glad you found it useful! Have an awesome time 🙂

You may have answered in other posts but I’ve just found your site. What about wrinkling your clothing when stuffing it in the cubes so tightly?

Hi Terri 🙂 The best thing to do is to find wrinkle resistant fabrics 🙂 Take a look at this post for ideas http://bit.ly/29hB9VY

This is so inspiring! I can only imagine how freeing this was for you on your trip. I do carry-on with the Farpoint and a small purse now, but I hope to manage with as little as you had someday for the extreme convenience factor.

Thanks Sonia! Would love to do this full time but it was great at least for a shorter trip 🙂

Alex as always you are a packing inspiration. Your wonderful site, tips and tricks led me and my partner (after I convinced him it was possible) to travel for 8 months around the world using the Osprey farpoint 40. It was the perfect bag for that length of trip and today you have inspired me to pack even less for shorter trips. Thank you and happy travels, Bonnie x

Thank you Bonnie! I’m happy you and your partner found it possible to travel for an extended period of time a 40L bag! Shorter trips should be a breeze!

I love this post!!! It’s amazing to see what you can do with the right pieces! Thanks for sharing:):)

🙂 Yay! Glad you like it. I totally agree, the right pieces are key!

űgreat result of minimalist packing! This bag doesn’t even look 10 liters. So for the pool days there were no scarves or towels packed but you relyed on what the hotel provided?

Hi Bea for pool days I just used the pool towels provided by the resort and just used my white button up top open if I wanted some coverage 🙂

Loved this post! I am in awe as I am the dreaded overpacker dum dum dum lol. I need to take this approach for my upcoming (Aug 5) 2 week trip with the boyfriend to Peru to spend with his family as they are from there… The first week will be at a beach resort in the northern part of Peru so it’s warmer there in the days for swimming in the ocean and then we’ll go to Lima where they live for the 2nd week where it is cold. I hope I don’t overpack… The thing is I’m Afro-Latina and so I must travel with my own shampoo and most importantly conditioner… Anything they give at a hotel always leaves my hair tangled and dry and for 1 week at a beach resort where I’ll be washing my hair everyday I will need my conditioner lolol

Hey 🙂 I’m glad you found it helpful! It is possible to cut down on the amount you take! Take a look at this Peru post for some more ideas http://bit.ly/2apB4zE and have a great time!

I’m just wondering – since the backpack is leather, is it heavy? I try to always take canvas or a fabric bag when traveling, and I’m nervous about my stuff behind me in a backpack, but you make it all look so easy! You’ve inspired me to pack smarter!

Thanks Janell! I don’t find the leather to be heavy, perhaps the hardware adds a little weight but not enough to make a big impact – the versatility of the bag is worth it!

Awesome! Love this post! Curious… what do you use for a wallet? Where do you keep your cash, credit cards, etc?

Hi Marti! Glad you liked the post 🙂 My wallet is my phone case. You didn’t see it because I was using my phone to record the video but this is what I use: http://amzn.to/2ab4bFL

Is the flat iron dual voltage? I have gotten past taking a hair dryer but I have to have a flat iron that I can count on through out Europe! Thx!

Yes it is! It’s been fantastic abroad, no issues in Europe.

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Best Size Luggage For A 7 Day Trip

Table of Contents

Best Size Suitcase for A One Week Trip

There are plenty of options available if you're looking for the right size suitcase for your one-week vacation. Whether you're planning a short city break or a longer road trip, there are plenty of travel suitcases available for you to consider. 20", 22", 24", and 26" are considered to be the popular sizes and best suitcase sizes for your 1-week trip.

This travel bag makes packing easier thanks to its lightweight construction. You don't need to worry about dragging it around with you, either.

If you're only travelling by plane, then this lightweight luggage is ideal since it doesn't weigh very much.

Since the wheels fold down flat, you can easily store them away once you reach your final destination.

This means that you won't have to lug your suitcase through airports and train stations every single day. Domestic carryon size must meet size requirements at the airport, for you to avoid any delay in your flight.

CHESTER 26″ Spinner

For those seeking the perfect carry-on suitcase for their next long-haul flight, the Chester 26″ Spinner is definitely worth checking out. Made by a trusted brand, they feature quality materials that ensure years of service.

Not only does it look great, but it's also built to last and is the best size for carry-on luggage.

Your typical carry-on suitcase doesn't cut it for trips lasting several days. You'll probably accumulate a lot of stuff while travelling and need a bigger space to store it all.

A traditional suitcase may not provide enough room for your clothes and belongings, so they'll end up strewn throughout your hotel room. However, a special size luggage system for short trips makes life easier.

Samsonite Omni 24″ Spinner

A Samsonite 24-inch spinner holds enough clothes for a week's worth of trips. It's lightweight and compact, making it ideal for day trips or weekend breaks away from home.

Choose between two interior storage compartments, including one zip pocket, for extra organization. No matter where you'll be spending your next adventure, a Samsonite 24-inch spinner is a great option for packing light."

Coolife Luggage Expandable 24″ Spinner

Travel luggage needs to fit your needs, whether it's a long weekend escape or a weeklong trip across Europe. There are lots of great choices for you to consider, including Coolife luggage expandable 24-inch spinner cases.

These coolers come with built-in wheels and telescoping handles to make them easier to roll along. Each cooler has two compartments that keep drinks cold or hot for hours at a time.

These cooling bags are perfect for shorter trips or days away at the beach because they hold enough ice packs for multiple beverages and snacks. You'll find that they are durable and lightweight, making them ideal travel companions during your next journey.

Best Carry-on Luggage For A Week-long Trip

Whether you're planning a quick weekend trip or a week-long family vacation, this lightweight travel case is the best choice for you.

Just pack your clothes, toiletries and any other essentials you may need for the upcoming trip inside and take it along wherever you go.

This lightweight travel bag weighs less than ten pounds, making it easy to drag around with you everywhere you go. Once you arrive at your final destination, it's simple to unroll the wheels and fold them flat to save space.

Not only does this lightweight travel bag make packing easier, but it also makes unpacking simpler. All you'll have to do is pull it off the baggage carousel and place it onto the conveyor belt so you can collect your bags.

Check out our collection of luggage online today. There are affordable travel cases for backpackers, luxury roller bags and durable wheeled luggage for those who prefer a traditional suitcase.

CHESTER 22″ Spinner

This is a great way to pack light if you're travelling for a week at a time. It's especially helpful if you're only going by air, as it weighs less than 10 pounds.

All you need is a backpack, and you'll be ready to explore wherever your travels may lead you that should be the quality choice of a quality piece.

The wheels fold down flat, making it easy to store away once you reach your destination. This means that it won't weigh too much during your entire trip, so you won't spend any extra time dragging it along.

Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds 20″ Spinner

This carry-on suitcase is great for those who want to pack light and avoid lugging a heavy suitcase around.

Its wheels fold down flat and you don't need to worry at all about dragging it around the airport. Plus, with its double wheel, it folds down flat so you can stash it away once you're done flying.

If you want to save space on your trip, then this Kenneth Cole suitcase is perfect for you. It's made from lightweight material and is pretty compact, making it easy to fit into overhead compartments.

It's not too bulky, though, so it's perfect if you plan on travelling a lot by air.

Tips For Buying Luggage

There are generally two types of luggage available: soft-sided and rigid. A soft-sided suitcase is just that, meaning that no matter how much stuff you pack, it will compress down to fit in the same volume.

On the downside, they're quite flimsy, and the zipper can become damaged fairly easily. Rigid cases, however, are sturdier, providing greater protection against bumps and scratches.

A rigid suitcase should provide enough padding to prevent damage to any items you're carrying. Be wary of cases that only cover the bottom half of your backpack, as that'll leave you exposed to rain and dust.

It should have a combination lock or alternative lock because durable travel locks are necessary for travelling. You might also rely on your trusty lock or three-digit TSA lock which suggests the best locks for security because it has the best lock positions.

If you're travelling abroad, ask your airline about carry-on restrictions. Many airlines have strict rules regarding carry-ons, and you might find yourself having to pay a fee to check your baggage.

Ask your airline about specific regulations regarding your destination, and check online to find out if there's something you shouldn't bring.

Choose a suitcase that fits comfortably under your arm, and avoid ones that weigh too much. If possible, try to pick up a piece of luggage on arrival rather than buying one on your way through security.

Try to take along a small backpack that isn't overly bulky; if you do have to buy a new one during your stay, opt for a smaller version instead of the large, heavy one you took on holiday last year.

Before paying for luggage, compare prices online and carefully review reviews for the brand you're interested in.

Why Bring A Suitcase When Traveling?

"While travel is fun, it isn’t always easy. Carrying lots of luggage makes life difficult. Weighing down your back, carrying heavy loads on your shoulders and trying to find places to store everything aren’t easy tasks. You might end up spending hours unpacking and repacking your suitcase.

Not only does this make travelling more challenging, but you probably won’t enjoy yourself as much because you’ll be tired and stressed out.

Here’s an alternative approach: bring just enough clothes and accessories to last your entire trip. You can still dress well and look great while travelling.

You won’t spend any time worrying if you forgot something essential when you get to your destination—you already packed it. And since you brought fewer items, you’ll fit more comfortably in the overhead bins on planes, trains, boats and buses.

Whether you’re flying domestically or abroad, it’s helpful to prepare for any eventuality while you’re waiting for your flight. Keep handy a copy of your passport, tickets, itinerary, and other important information so you can breeze right through customs upon arrival.

Make sure your phone is fully charged so you can reach out to loved ones back home if anything goes wrong. Don’t forget your medication and medical supplies in case of emergency.

Also, stash a change of clothes in your carry-on so you can freshen up once you land.

“Laptop”, "smartphone", "camera", "tablet", "eBook Reader", "Headphones", "Charger", "USB", "Tripod" & "Power Bank".

Considerations When Selecting Luggage

When travelling for a week, there are several factors to consider when picking a suitcase.

You'll want to pick a bag that fits within your budget, is comfortable enough to travel with, has a lot of storage space, is durable, doesn't weigh too much and comes with plenty of packing cubes.

There are two main types of suitcases: soft-sided and rigid. Soft-sided suitcases tend to be less expensive, but are not very sturdy. Rigid suitcases, however, are usually heavier, more durable and costlier.

The materials used in making soft-sided baggage are typically lighter than those used in rigid suits, so they tend to feel flimsy.

Count the number of wheels on a suitcase. It should have at least four wheels. Some suitcases may only have three wheels instead of four, but it makes moving the bag easier. A suitcase with no wheels isn't very convenient.

Think about the handle needed if you intend to carry the bag yourself. Some suitcases have handles built in, while others require you to purchase a separate handle separately.

Check how much weight the suitcase holds. Don't buy a heavy suitcase unless you absolutely need it. Even though a lightweight suitcase might seem appealing because it won't weigh as much, it might still be uncomfortable.

And even though a heavyweight suitcase looks great on the store shelf, it might prove difficult to carry on aeroplanes and trains.

Luggage Size Selection

Your suitcase should maximize space while still fitting your needs. You'll want to consider your packing style and habits when making a decision. Some travellers carry only essentials, whereas others bring entire wardrobes.

Larger suitcases may cost less but weigh far more. Smaller ones tend to be lighter but require more work to pack and unpack.

If you plan on travelling internationally and bringing along laptops and tablets, you may need to travel light. In this case, a small laptop bag might fit your needs perfectly!

For best results, think about your lifestyle and preferences before buying a suitcase. A hard-sided suitcase comes with handles and wheels, allowing you to roll it across airports and train stations without any hassle.

Soft-sided cases usually provide more storage space and are easier to fold down while walking. Larger bags also tend to be heavier and less portable than smaller ones.

When deciding between a soft-sided or hard-sided suitcase, consider your packing styles and habits. If you plan on carrying fewer items or a larger backpack, a hard-sided suitcase may be the right choice for you.

Conversely, if you're travelling with multiple large pieces of equipment or clothing, then a soft-sided suitcase will probably be sufficient.

Suitcase Sizing Chart

Counting the number of wheels on suitcases isn't really necessary. Unless you plan on carrying an extremely heavy suitcase, there is no reason to count the wheels. However, if you want to, feel free to add up the total number of wheels.

You probably won't need to unless your suitcase is very large.

Consider checking how much weight the suitcase holds. Some lightweight suitcases weigh only 2 lbs., whereas others may hold up to 50 lbs! This means that if you plan to carry any extra baggage, you should consider getting a heavier suitcase.

Check out the handles. Are they comfortable? Do they fit well? Can you easily lift the suitcase? Depending on where you'll be travelling, you might want to consider buying a telescopic handle that allows you to extend the length of the handle.

Think about the storage space. Most suitcases come equipped with built-in compartments, including a shoe compartment and a garment bag.

Other suitcases include separate drawers for storing small items such as wallets, cell phones and sunglasses. Still, other suitcases have larger drawers that allow you to store clothing.

Your luggage doesn't necessarily have to match the exact dimensions listed on the chart. Instead, choose a case that fits within the parameters of most suitcases.

For example, if you usually travel with a medium-sized suitcase, a slightly larger suitcase is better than a tiny suitcase. But if you normally pack light, a small suitcase is ideal.

Choosing Luggage Components

There are two main types of luggage: soft-sided and carry-ons. Each comes with its advantages and disadvantages. You'll find the differences between the two below.

Look at the material. Soft-sided suitcases tend to be thinner and lighter, but they may not hold items securely enough if there isn't padding inside.

Hard-sided suitcases usually weigh more due to their thicker materials. However, they usually have extra padding inside and are easier to secure.

Count those wheels. Soft-sided suitcases tend to have fewer wheels than hard-sided ones. This makes getting them through narrow doorways easier and less tiring.

On the flip side, they are harder to manoeuvre around tight spaces and often require you to remove the wheel casings to move them.

Choosing Long-lasting Luggage

When you are planning a week-long trip somewhere, you'll want to pack light. You may already have a suitcase, but if not, there are several options available online.

A lot of people think that a hard-sided case is the only option when packing suitcases for long trips, but that doesn't mean they are right. Soft-sided cases can actually last longer than their hard-sided counterparts, so they are a great choice for travellers who plan on staying away for a week!

What makes a suitcase long-lasting depends on the material used. Although there are many types of materials, most cases fall under either the "hard side" or "soft side".

Hard-sided cases tend to be more durable and heavy-duty; however, they are generally heavier than their soft-sided counterparts.

If you are looking for something lightweight and portable, a combination of both a soft-sided and harden-sided suitcase is the way to go. These bags combine the portability of soft sides with the durability of hard-sided cases.

Choosing Safety Features In Luggage

Safety should be one of the most important factors when choosing the right suitcase for your trip. Whether you are travelling for work or pleasure, it's important to keep yourself safe.

Look for safety features on your luggage to avoid being injured during travel. Here are some tips for picking the safest case for your upcoming trip:

Larger airports may require larger suitcases. Large airlines typically prefer cases that weigh less than 22 pounds.

Lift handles are usually found on hard-sided models, although there are exceptions. Hard-sided models tend to last longer than soft-sided ones, especially if they are made of aluminium.

Aluminium tends to dent and break down quickly, which means that the bag won't be used for very long after purchase.

A large-capacity duffle bag makes for an ideal emergency kit. It can hold everything you need for survival in a disaster situation - including food, water, medical supplies, and communication equipment.

About this Guide

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Lightweight Luggage

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The best packing cubes to save space and keep you organized

These travel cubes will keep your suitcase in order, whether you’re going on a short getaway or a round-the-world adventure.

Whether you’re packing for a weekend getaway or planning an around-the-world adventure, packing cubes can help streamline the packing process. Packing cubes are bags that come in different sizes in a set. They can help organize clothing and save room in your suitcase. Frequent traveler Kayli King uses packing bags daily to keep clothes organized in her van while traveling. “Honestly, after traveling so long, I can’t imagine not using them,” she says.  

After talking to King, we compared packing bags, looking for durable travel cubes with functional designs and a wide variety of sizes. Our top overall pick is the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes. Compression zippers, handles, and a low price tag make this set the best all around.

Our picks for the best packing cubes for travel

The best packing cubes for travel, best overall: gonex compression packing cubes.

Buy it now on   Amazon

Why we like it:   The Gonex Compression Packing Cubes are our choice for the best overall packing cubes. Despite being one of the more affordable travel cube sets on this list, these compression bags have plenty of features, including ripstop nylon, reinforced seams, and handles. They compress via double zippers that pull the edges of the travel packing bag together. The packing cubes can hold everything from socks to jackets and are designed to fit together like puzzle pieces. They’re also available in over 10 colors.

Keep in mind:   These packing cubes unzip only halfway, so you have to stuff your clothes inside rather than lay them flat. Some reviewers note that the compression zippers are difficult for people with arthritis or reduced mobility.

Product details: Size: 4-piece set: 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches (small), 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches (medium), 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches (large), and 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches (extra large) | Material:   Ripstop nylon | Weight: 12 ounces (set)  

Best for traveling light: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set  

Buy it now at   Backcountry

Why we like it: At 4.2 ounces, the Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set is half the weight of other packing cubes on this list, but they’re far from flimsy. They’re made of ripstop polyester and have “self-repairing” zippers—if a gap opens in the chain, you can slide one of the zippers over it to close it. Eagle Creek also offers a warranty that covers fabric tears and zippers. Because they’re lightweight and sturdy, these travel cubes are great for hikers and campers who want to organize their backpacks.  

Keep in mind: The set includes only three smaller-sized travel cubes. While great for backpacks and carry-ons, you may want bigger packing cubes for checked luggage.

Product details: Size:   3-piece set: 4.5 x 7.5 x 2.5 inches (extra small), 7.25 x 10 x 3.25 inches (small), and 10 x 14.25 x 3.25 inches (medium) | Material:   Ripstop polyester | Weight:   4.2 ounces (set)  

Best for overpackers: REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set

Buy it now at   REI

Why we like it:   The packing cubes in the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set are the opposite of compression bags. Each cube has a second zipper that, when unzipped, increases its width to six inches—double the size of other packing bags on this list. They’re designed to last with ripstop polyester treated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish. The packing cubes also meet the Bluesign criteria, the highest environmental standard for sustainable textile manufacturing.

Keep in mind:   REI Co-op recently updated its packing cubes, and some buyers believe the quality has suffered as a result. Third-party reviews mention thin material, unreinforced zippers, and mesh that snags.

Product details: Size:   3-piece set: 8 x 6 x 3 inches (small), 12 x 8 x 3 inches (medium), and 14.5 x 10.5 x 3 inches (large) | Material:   Ripstop nylon, polyester mesh | Weight: 8.3 ounce (set)  

Best upcycled option: Cotopaxi Cubo Packing Cube Bundle

Why we like it:   The brightly colored Cotopaxi Cubo Packing Cube Bundle is an upcycled option you can feel good about. The packing bags are made of 100-percent repurposed nylon and mesh. Kayli King likes that the mesh panels allow your things to air out and that you can hang them up by their handles.

Cotopaxi’s sustainability initiatives extend beyond its packing cubes. The company says that 94 percent of its products use repurposed, recycled, or responsible materials. They also offer programs to repair items and trade them in to avoid landfills.

Keep in mind:   Despite its competitive price, this bundle comes with only three packing cubes. The size range is small compared to other packing cube sets. However, King prefers this set for longer trips.

Product details: Size: 3-piece set: 7 x 8 x 2 inches (2-liter bag), 6 x 11.5 x 3 inches (3-liter bag), 10 x 11.5 x 5 inches (10-liter bag) | Material:   100 percent repurposed nylon and mesh | Weight: 9 ounces (set)

Best style: Calpak Packing Cubes Set

Buy it now at   Calpak

Why we like it:   While many packing cubes seem to favor function over fashion, the Calpak Packing Cubes Set balances both. The packing bags come in over 20 colors, with patterns like “cheetah” and “lime viper.” They’re durable, with thick polyester sides and mesh covers that let you see inside. Each packing cube has a zippered pocket for smaller essentials and an ID tag to write down the contents. If five travel cubes aren’t enough, you can buy additional Calpak travel organizers, like shoe bags and laptop totes.

Keep in mind:   The Calpak Packing Cube set is by far the heaviest and most expensive option on this list. You may want lighter packing cubes if you travel with just a carry-on or are concerned about overweight luggage.

Product details: Size:   5-piece set: 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches (envelope), 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches (small x 2), 5 x 11 x 3 inches (medium), 17 x 12 x 3 inches (large) | Material: Polyester and mesh | Weight: 1 pound, 12.8 ounces (set)  

Best set: Tripped Checked Bag Set

Why we like it:   The Tripped Checked Bag Set has a travel cube for almost every packing need. The set includes seven packing bags, including two extra large sizes, a slim cube, a shoe bag, and a roll-top laundry bag. Mix and match the travel cubes to fit your suitcase and packing needs. Most of the packing cubes in the Checked Bag Set also have a compression feature. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors and an illustrated set featuring national parks.  

Keep in mind:   While the packing cubes are made from a ripstop blend, reviewers mention that the material and stitching feel thin and flimsy. Some of the travel cubes don’t unzip all the way, making packing more difficult.

Product details: Size: 6-piece set: 12.5 x 6.5 x 6.5 inches (shoe bag), 12.5 x 4.5 x 3 inches (slim cube), 21 x 11.5 x 0.1 inches (laundry bag), 10 x 7 x 4 inches (small), 14 x 10 x 4 inches (large), 16 x 12 x 4 inches (extra large x 2) | Material:   Ripstop nylon-polyester blend | Weight:   15.5 ounces (set)  

Best budget: Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes

Why we like it: The Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes come with six packing cubes, including a laundry bag and a shoe bag. They cost less than half the price of most other packing bag sets on this list. The low price doesn’t mean low quality, though. The Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes are made of thick polyester, with sturdy zippers and mesh panels to help keep clothes fresh. Plus, they come in 12 colors.  

Keep in mind: The laundry and shoe bags are small. The polyester is not ripstop and can melt if dried on high heat.

Product details: Size: 6-piece set: 4.7 x 17 inches (shoe bag), 14 x 20 inches (laundry bag), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), 13.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 17.5 x 12.15 x 5 inches (extra large) | Material:   Polyester | Weight:   10.4 ounces (set)  

How we chose the best travel packing cubes

We weighed the following qualities when curating the best packing cubes:

Third-party reviews:   We considered reviews from sources other than company websites and spoke with seasoned travelers to find out what they liked.  

Brand reputation: Anything you use for traveling should be functional, long-lasting, and, preferably, good for the planet. We looked for brands that value high-quality gear and sustainability.

Quality of material:   We chose travel cubes that were made to last, with durable materials like ripstop nylon and polyester, reinforced seams, and strong zippers.

Size range: Different-sized packing bags make for an easier packing experience. We chose packing cube sets in a range of sizes, from extra small to extra large.

Compression options: Some packing cube brands offer compression bags, which can be a nice feature if you’re tight on space.  

Tips for buying packing bags

Here’s what to consider when picking your own packing cubes:

Brand reputation  

Choose a trusted brand with a proven reputation. Brands with zipper and fabric warranties or repair programs will also help you get as many vacations as possible with your travel organizers.

If you only use carry-ons or smaller luggage, choose a packing cube set with fewer, smaller travel cubes. If you prefer to use checked luggage, go for a packing cube set with more travel cubes and bigger sizes.  

If you travel with just a carry-on or want to use packing cubes for hiking, choose an ultralight packing cube set. Every ounce counts when packing light, and some travel cube sets are nearly 1.5 pounds lighter than others.

Packing cubes are typically made of polyester or nylon, both strong synthetic fabrics. If you need something even more durable, look for ripstop nylon or polyester, which has extra threads to prevent tears from becoming bigger.

Some brands offer compression bags, which can save space. However, King finds that compressed bags can be awkwardly shaped, making them harder to fit together in your suitcase. If you are a heavy packer, travel cubes for shoes or laundry can help keep the rest of your luggage clean.

Frequently asked questions

Are packing cubes worth it?

Packing cubes can help save space in your suitcase and improve organization, reducing stress while traveling.

Does TSA allow packing cubes?

Packing cubes are TSA-approved, provided everything inside is within the regulations. Check with your airline on what is allowed in carry-on and checked bags.

How many packing cubes do you need for a suitcase?

How many packing cubes you need depends on the length of your trip and the size of your suitcase. Four to six packing cubes is a great starting point. You can adjust the number as needed.

How much does a packing cube cost?

The packing cube sets recommended here cost between 20 and 70 dollars. Some companies may sell individual packing cubes for less.

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