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The 11 Best Luggage Brands of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

No matter what size or style you want, these are the best luggage brands to fit your needs.

Our Testing Process

Our Decision 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

No matter where you're going or how often you travel, luggage can make or break your trip. It helps with planning, packing, and staying organized while away — and sometimes determines whether you can bring back souvenirs. There's a wide range of checked suitcases, carry-on bags, duffels, weekenders, underseat bags, and backpacks on the market. Beyond that, you've got hardside and softside options with various organizational features. Amid what you might call the Golden Age of luggage, it can be hard to sift through your offerings.

To figure out what brands stand out from the rest, our Travel + Leisure team has tested more than 450 pieces of luggage ranging from carry-ons and checked suitcases to duffels, weekenders, garment bags, and other types of travel bags — assessing capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design through a series of tests and simulations. We've rolled suitcases through obstacle courses, threw them off tables, and hit them with baseball bats to see how well they'd perform in different travel scenarios like rough baggage handlers. We even recreated an airplane set in our New York City lab to lift bags into real overhead bins and underneath seats. We continue testing each bag in our real-life travels for a minimum of six months to make sure it stands up to planes, trains, automobiles, and anything else life may throw at it.

Our team has tested bags from many different brands, and below you'll find our current favorites. We will continue to update this article as we test even more luggage brands and new bags.

Best Overall

Backed by a 10-year warranty, Samsonite luggage is compact yet spacious, easy to maneuver, and exceptionally durable.

Because Samsonite has such a wide variety of designs and price points, some bags perform better than others.

After our most recent set of luggage tests, Samsonite has risen to the top as our favorite overall luggage brand. Samsonite luggage is generally lightweight and compact on the outside, with spacious interiors to maximize packing and a variety of styles to choose from. We especially love the brand for its versatility, with an impressive variety of bags at different price points so you can find whatever suits you whether you're looking for something affordable or luxurious.

The Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-on holds the spot as the best overall carry-on we've ever tested, while the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside takes the cake as our favorite checked suitcase . The Samsonite Bartlett Carry-on Softside Spinner earned perfect scores during our tests, impressing us as a solid softside suitcase for under $100. We also loved the organizational features — including multiple tech sleeves and included packing cubes — of the Samsonite Just Right Carry-on Spinner .

Almost all of the suitcases sustained hardly any damage after we hit them with a baseball bat and shoved them off a table. Samsonite luggage also maneuvers without a fuss, even on carpeted floors and gravel. Prices are more than reasonable, and while you'll have to make any returns within 30 days, the brand backs its products with a 10-year warranty.

The Details: 30 day return policy | 10-year warranty

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Best Overall, Runner-up

The suitcases are durable, smooth-rolling, and spacious, and the brand has a generous 100-day return policy.

Some are harder to pull on two wheels, and the checked models are a bit heavy.

All Travelpro luggage we tested earned high scores for maneuverability, durability, capacity, and overall design. The brand's hardside and softside models were a hit in the T+L lab, and there are both carry-on and checked options with spacious interiors and expandable capacities. We also appreciated the various organizational features, like zipper panels, cross straps, and pockets.

With self-aligning spinner wheels and sturdy telescoping handles, Travelpro luggage is also easy to maneuver on hard floors, carpet, and even gravel (though some suitcases are slightly harder to roll on two wheels than four, especially when packed full). We particularly love the Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Expandable Hardside Spinner with its sleek wheels and a textured handle that helps maintain a comfortable grip, and we think the Travelpro x Travel + Leisure Large Check-In Trunk Spinner makes a stylish investment piece if you're looking for something large, durable, and built to last. Even Travelpro's rolling garment bag impressed with its high capacity for the size. And, while the carry-ons are generally lightweight, one thing to note is that the larger checked models weigh almost twice as much when empty.

After shoving the suitcases off a table and whacking them with a baseball bat, we were pleasantly surprised by their durability. We only noticed a couple superficial marks — no scratches or dents, and nothing that wouldn't wipe clean. Travelpro offers a generous 100-day return policy and backs its luggage with warranties ranging from 10 years to a lifetime, though it can be difficult to connect with their customer service department to initiate returns or repair requests at times.

The Details: 100 day return policy | 10-year to lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best for Staying Organized

Away Travel

Beyond aesthetic appeal, Away flaunts plenty of pockets and compartments that keep all of your items in place.

The hardside suitcases might scratch under heavy use.

Away luggage has a minimalist-modern aesthetic and a sophisticated yet practical appeal. We're huge fans of the brand's suitcases and weekenders and particularly love The Everywhere Bag that's perfect for overnight trips, quick weekend adventures, and use as a personal item on longer trips. The checked baggage and hardside carry-on luggage pieces are light yet durable and easy to wipe clean. They didn't sustain any dents from our baseball bat tests, but there were a few scratches after we shoved them off a table. There are so many sizes to choose from, including one of our favorite trunks we've ever tested. We liked the dual main compartments, compression systems, expanders, and dirty laundry satchels of the roller bags.

The suitcases were a breeze to maneuver on their 360-degree spinner wheels, and carrying The Everywhere and The Garment Bag was comfortable with the padded shoulder straps. The Garment Bag also has interior padding that keeps all of your longer clothing items protected and helps to minimize wrinkles. Away is certainly not the cheapest luggage brand out there, but it's also far from the most expensive. Considering the 100-day return window, lifetime warranty, and stylish designs, we wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to pretty much any traveler.

The Details: 100 day return policy | Lifetime warranty

A perfect choice for organized travelers, Paravel luggage has lots of added features and a sophisticated appeal.

The suitcases don't expand, and the lighter colors are prone to scuffing.

Perfect for organized travelers , Paravel takes the cake for additional features. We loved the dual compartments, many pockets, dividers, and removable laundry bags. While the suitcases don't expand, the compression pads make fitting everything a cinch. The Paravel Aviator Carry-on Plus was one of our top carry-on bags thanks to its sleek design, roomy interior that makes packing a breeze, and slick wheels that were great on every surface. We also love the super cute Paravel Mini Fold-up Backpack that earned perfect scores in every category, as well as our pick as best overall mini backpack . Not only does the bag fold up small so you can pack it in larger bags, but it also has a high capacity that can even fit a tablet, making it the perfect eye-catching style to wear on any vacation.

Most Paravel luggage pieces held up well during our durability tests, though the lighter-colored hardside models are prone to scuffing. The suitcases are also easy to pull, push, and roll over various flooring materials. What's more, Paravel luggage is undeniably stylish with a sophisticated appeal and a cool mid-century flair. Prices are somewhat steep, but in the end, we think it's worth the investment.

People / Jhett Thompson

Most Spacious

Delsey Paris

The brand's large-capacity suitcases are impressively spacious yet lightweight, with built-in expanders and smooth-rolling wheels.

The hardside models are prone to scuffing.

Delsey is a go-to for large-capacity luggage . This brand carries both hardside and softside suitcases, including surprisingly spacious carry-ons and checked baggage in multiple sizes so you can find the best design for your needs. We were thrilled by how much they fit, noting that they could easily pack all items on our packing list with room to spare, even without expansion functions.

The suitcases maneuver well on their four spinner wheels, even over carpet, cracks, and bumps. Most models are also lightweight, so lifting them into an overhead bin is no problem. We checked the Chatelet Air 2.0 Carry-on and matching Chatelet Air 2.0 Medium Checked bag on four different long-haul international flights and each time they made it to the luggage carousel with only minor scuffs that were easily wiped away. We appreciate Delsey's accessible price points, plus the brand backs its luggage with warranties ranging from five to 10 years.

The Details: 30 day return policy | 5-to-10-year warranty

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Colors

They come in both neutrals and so many colorful designs, including limited-edition options.

Some of the carry-ons are on the smaller size.

You’ll feel like a kid in a candy store with all of the colorful suitcase options from July — and if you tend to gravitate toward neutrals, July has those, too. After we tested over a dozen bags in our lab on on our airplane set, some of our favorites included the July Carry On (includes a portable charger), the July Checked Plus (the largest suitcase in July’s range), the July Checked Plus Light (a great lightweight option), and the July Trunk Set (a stylish, zipperless two-piece set).

We found the bags to be very durable against our baseball bat tests, although we noticed that the bags with aluminum corner bumpers tended to scuff more easily specifically on the corners. One of our favorite features was that some bags, including the Carry On Pro SnapSleeve , feature a multi-stop telescopic handle that you can adjust to 20 different heights, when many suitcase handles only stop at three heights.

Different bag styles are available in different colorways, and you can choose from delightful shades of blues, greens, pinks, reds, shadow lavender, plum, yellow, sand, and more, most of which will easily stand out on any baggage carousel. We did notice that some of the carry-ons tend to be much more spacious than others, so be sure to check the dimensions to find a size that will fit everything you need.

The Details: 100 day return policy | Limited lifetime warranty on luggage; 5-year warranty on soft bags and accessories; 2-year warranty on small leather goods

Best for Smaller Bags

Calpak luggage is compact yet still spacious enough to hold the essentials, and maneuvering it is a piece of cake.

The two-year warranty is substantially shorter than most other brands.

If you're looking for something you can stash in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you, Calpak might be your best bet. We loved the duffles, backpacks, and suitcases with a particular appreciation for the Hue Mini Carry-on Luggage , our best overall underseat bag . We love that it glides smoothly, has a sturdy exterior, and can even fit a laptop, making it perfect for weekend getaways or even business trips.

Even when packed full, we found each Calpak suitcase to roll beautifully on both two wheels and four. We also like the Compakt Small Garment Bag , which is perfect to transport of one or two formal pieces inside a carry-on suitcase. The Stevyn Duffel Bag was very comfortable to tote with its shoulder strap and features a separate shoe compartment to keep your items clean if you're in the market for something smaller. Though the two-year warranty is shorter than most other brands, we think Calpak's prices are more than fair.

The Details: 30 day return policy | 2-year warranty

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Budget

Amazon basics.

Amazon's luggage is not just budget-friendly but also lightweight and sturdy with unexpectedly large capacities.

Color options are limited, and the suitcases don't have USB ports or other smart features.

We can confidently tell you there's much more to love about Amazon Basics luggage than a budget-friendly price tag. The Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner also landed on our list of the best lightweight luggage after earning a perfect score in all categories. We especially love that even though it is a light suitcase, it's sturdy with wheels that easily maneuver over gravel and carpeting. More pockets would have been appreciated, but both the carry-on and checked models easily fit everything on our packing list without the expanders, which adds another 15 percent to the capacity.

The hardside suitcases have extra-thick thermoplastic shells that passed our durability tests with flying colors — no scratches or dents in sight. They were generally easy to maneuver, too, albeit a little more difficult on gravel. Color options are limited, and while most Amazon Basics carriers don't have TSA locks or smart features, the designs exceeded our expectations.

The Details: 30 day return policy | 3-year warranty

Best Splurge

This splurge-worthy luggage brand boasts expandable main compartments, ample pockets, impact-resistant exteriors, and smooth spinner wheels.

The price might be hard to justify, and the checked bags are somewhat heavy when empty.

If you want the crème de la crème of luggage, Tumi is where it's at . The suitcases and underseat bags fared better than the duffel we tested, but all in all, we were impressed. Our favorite by far is the Alpha International Expandable 4-wheeled Carry-on that looks compact but includes plenty of organizational compartments and even comes with its own removable garment bag. There was plenty of space to pack everything on our list in every Tumi bag, even without the expanders. This brand also stands out for its organizational, smart, and security features. We're talking ample pockets, removable garment bags, laptop sleeves, USB ports, lockable zippers, and TSA-approved locks.

Whether you go softside or hardside, you can count on reliable durability — we even jumped on the bags and rode on top of them and not one feature broke or dented. We observed virtually no scuffs or scratches after whacking the bags with a baseball bat. Tumi luggage is easy to maneuver, thanks to the spinner wheels, but bear in mind the checked sizes are pretty heavy when empty. If you can swing the steep price, we think the brand is an excellent choice for long trips, frequent fliers , and those who like to stay organized.

The Details: 30 day return policy | 5-year warranty

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Most Durable

Briggs & riley.

Briggs & Riley

With ballistic nylon or shock-absorbing polycarbonate exteriors, Briggs & Riley suitcases can really take a beating.

This is one of the more expensive brands, and the checked models are slightly heavy when empty.

The most durable luggage we tested comes from Briggs & Riley . The brand carries softside suitcases with ballistic nylon exteriors that resist premature wear and tear, as well as hardside models like the Sympatico Domestic Carry-on Expandable Spinner with shock-absorbing polycarbonate shells that promise to protect your cargo from getting crushed. We were impressed by how well they stood up to our shoves and bat swings — no dents or scratches to speak of.

Durability aside, Briggs & Riley suitcases roll effortlessly on hard floors and carpet, over bumps, and around tight corners. They also have decent capacities, many with built-in expanders. This is one of the more expensive luggage brands, but it's backed by a lifetime guarantee. We wouldn't be surprised if the suitcases last 10 or more years. Not only that, but there are a few options for remedying potential damage, including self-repair kits, authorized repair centers, or shipping back to Briggs & Riley for a tune-up.

The Details: 30 day return policy | Lifetime warranty

People / Tamara Staples

Best Design

Thoughtfully designed, each Béis bag we tried comes with extra, often removable, features so you can customize your packing.

These are large bags and we had a hard time fitting some weekenders under airplane seats.

Shay Mitchell's luggage brand quickly won our hearts with each bag's thoughtful design, customizable inserts, and removable compartments. The bags are certainly large and can fit everything you need for a long vacation or quick weekend getaway — just be mindful that not all of the duffel-style bags will work as personal items. The Weekender is one of our favorites: like Mary Poppins' bag of wonders, this tote seems to expand as you pack it, fitting every item on our list.

When it comes to rolling bags, the 29-inch Large Check-in Roller is our best checked bag for organization . Similar to its weekenders, carry-on bags, and backpacks, Béis' check-in bag is huge and can fit everything you need and more. All of the Béis suitcases we tested also sported durable wheels that smoothly navigated different types of surfaces without gettings tuck, as well as easy-to-use handles that make running through the airport a breeze.

The Details: 45 day return policy | Limited lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure/

Other Luggage Brands We Liked

Even though these brands did not make our main list, they still have some worthwhile suitcases and bags to consider.

Monos : Monos items have a nice, sleek look that are generally easy to maneuver. However, when we tested its large check-in suitcase, we found that it carried less items than some of its competitors.

Arlo Skye : We love this brand's smooth design and stand-out colors, but considering the higher price-point, these bags don't roll quite as smoothly as some other brands.

Roam : We're big fans of Roam's The Check-in hardside suitcase as well as the designs of other Roam bags; however, after one-month of real-world travels, we found these luggage pieces to be more prone to scratching than other brands we tried.

The T+L team has tested more than 450 pieces of luggage, including carry-ons, checked suitcases, duffels, weekenders, garment bags, backpacks, and more in our New York City testing facility. We've tried at least six models from many top-rated brands, performing a range of assessments to evaluate the capacity, maneuverability, durability, design, and overall value. We weighed each bag, then packed it with enough clothes and personal items to get through a four-day trip (more for the larger checked bags).

To see how the luggage would perform in a real-life environment, we rolled them on different flooring materials, across gravel and carpets, over bumps, and around corners. We also threw each piece off a table and whacked it a few times with a metal baseball bat to test for potential wear and tear and how prone it was to scratching or denting. In addition, we recreated an airplane set in our lab, where we hoisted the carry-on suitcases into real overhead bins and stuffed them underneath seats to see how easy they were to lift and how portable they felt.

After lab testing, each suitcase and bag was sent out for real-world testing, and our T+L editors brought the bags on vacations, weekend trips, and overnighters. To test each bag's true durability, convenience, and longevity, we tested each bag on planes, trains, buses, and even cruise ships, checking in after one month, three months, and six months to give our feedback. Considering standout features, size, and price, we created categorized ranked lists of every luggage piece we tested. The luggage brands with the highest average ratings were ultimately chosen for this list of our favorites, which we will continue to update as we test eve more luggage.

How We Chose These Brands

The T+L team tested at least six bags per brand on our winners list to ensure a broad sample size. We tested underseat luggage , checked luggage, and carry-on luggage as well as duffel bags, garment bags, and backpacks, and gave each individual bag a score based on its capacity, design, durability, maneuverability, and overall value.

Next, we created rankings based on the total average scores of all the bags we tested for that brand. We also thoroughly read through all of the tester insights on each luggage item from these three tests to evaluate each bag's details and features. Finally, we determined whether or not we would recommend a bag and its overall brand.

Tips for Buying Luggage

Get to know the brand.

When it comes to researching a new luggage brand, you're already well on your way. For more information on a specific brand, you can check out its website, read customer reviews on products you like, or even take a peek at the items in person. Buying new luggage (whether a singular piece or luggage set ) can be a pricey investment, so be sure you like a brand's style, warranty options, and overall quality before you make that purchase. This is especially important when it comes to splurging on luxury luggage pieces .

Know your organizational preferences

Material and size are important, but some of the best luggage brands stand out for their organizational features. This may include dual main compartments, various pockets, a shoe separator, zippered sections, a toiletry bag , a removable laundry bag, a garment bag, a laptop sleeve, and maybe even a USB port with a power bank pouch — some Arlo Skye luggage includes the power bank itself. While it's not a top priority for all travelers, this can make packing and accessing your belongings much easier.

Look for durability

The best luggage stands up to wear and tear for several years to come. Both softside and hardside luggage options can be very durable. It's really a matter of whether you want to safeguard your packed items from getting crushed or protect the exterior of the suitcase from superficial blemishes (though many softside and hardside models we tested check all the boxes).

Think about mobility

You should also think about maneuverability. When you're running into the airport to check your bags before heading to security, you'll want a suitcase that doesn't hold you back. Four-wheel spinner suitcases tend to be easier to pull and push over different surfaces compared to suitcases with just two wheels, and they're even better if they have a sturdy telescoping handle. Grab handles and padded straps are ideal for other types of luggage, and a lightweight design will make your travel experience much easier.

You'll see a range of hardside and softside models when browsing luggage, and many of the best brands offer both. What you purchase really comes down to personal preference. Some people appreciate how crush-resistant hardside suitcases protect their belongings. They're also easy to wipe clean and have a sleek, modern appearance.

On the other hand, softside suitcases are typically (but not always) lighter in weight and more flexible, so you can often pack more in them. After testing both types, we can tell you they're often just as durable as hardside options, and they won't dent like hardside bags do. Although a textile exterior might be trickier to clean, it can be better at concealing scuffs and dirt. Regardless of the type of luggage, you can find several effective products to clean suitcases available.

Size limits for carry-on luggage vary among airlines . That said, most allow suitcases no larger than 24 inches tall, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. Some are a little more strict, with limits set around 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Keep this in mind if your suitcase has an expander, as the additional inch or two could put it over the allowed size limit. We recommend checking the airline's website if you're not sure whether your luggage will pass as a carry-on.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, commerce writer Theresa Holland pored over our in-house testing insights, checked return policies, read the fine print for warranties, and evaluated price ranges to create a comprehensive roundup of the best luggage brands out there today.

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The Perfect Luggage for Avoiding Airport Chaos Is Here

Because stress-free travel starts with having the right gear.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

But choosing the best luggage is not always as easy as it seems. The variety of options on the market can make shopping for a new large suitcase or carry-on feel like driving through a dark tunnel without a navigation system. This guide here on the best luggage brands will help shine a little light on your trek, aiding you in choosing the right luggage for your budget.

Best Overall Luggage Brand

The Close Second

The Frequent Favorite

Best Investment Luggage Brand

Best Softside Luggage Brand

Best Luggage Sets

Best Luggage for Hauling Gear

Peak design.

Best Luggage for Apple AirTag Users

Best Adventure Luggage Brand

Eagle creek.

Best Luggage for Minimalist Travelers

Which brand of suitcase i s best.

The editors and writers at Men's Health are constantly on the go. From working assignments in LA to taking tropical vacations in Madeira, we make it a point to test all the best luggage brands in our adventures. Over the past four years alone, we've tested well over 40 different luggage brands to find the perfect piece. Here, we bring you the 17 best luggage brands of 2024 in one clean list, with Samsonite commanding our top spot of the best luggage brand overall due to the brand's outstanding durability, clean design, and wallet-friendly price.

No matter if you’re looking for a one-size-fits-all bag or an entire luggage set, these are the best luggage brands on the market that will get you cruising without the stress of schlepping some raggedy old case. Ready to see the list?

Price Point ($-$$$): $ | Hardside or Softside: Both | Warranty: 10 years

Samsonite makes the best affordable suitcases and luggage sets in our eyes. While the brand is in just about every major department store, the best place to buy Samsonite luggage is on Amazon. The retailer carries some of Samsonite's highest-rated products that won't burn a hole in your wallet. You can score an entire hard-sided set for under $300 or shop the brand's durable nylon singles . The items might not be as feature-loaded and reinforced as some of the other brands, but you will be surprised at how far your luggage will go before you need replacing.

When asking Justin Crabbe , the CEO of Jettly, a private jet charter service, about his go-to luggage brand, he mentioned Samsonite as one of the most well-priced and reliable brands that come to mind. "With lightweight yet durable material, superior design, and multiple compartments for packing with ease, it is a traveler’s dream come true," says Crabbe.

Our Senior Gear and Commerce Editor, John Thompson, always seems to find himself traveling with Samsonite too. " Time and time again I think I need to upgrade my luggage, and then I come back to my softside Samsonite carry-on I've held onto for over 5+ years," he says. " It [my carry-on] has been my companion with me through many adventures, from high altitude camping trips in Colorado to overseas adventures in countries like China and Germany." Thompson also notes his Samsonite's all-black fabric body has resisted scratches and marks over time, which makes it suitable for business trips as a clean piece that will blend in among the other bags—and not stand out for being all mangled and disheveled.

Read more: Viral TikTok Travel Essentials

Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Both | Warranty: Lifetime

You must be living under a rock if this is your first time hearing about the magic that is Away luggage. The simple-yet-modern design makes you actually love to carry the brand's bags. Away's claim to fame comes from the brand's built-in battery packs that can power up your devices. Our Fashion Director, Ted Stafford, is a huge fan of Away due to the brand's attention to detail in the design process. " The interior of the suitcase has a streamlined design, which offers ample space to fit all your necessary items in an uncluttered and organized way ," says Stafford. " Plus, Away’s suitcases are extremely lightweight, so you can easily maneuver to and from your destination without pulling your muscles or overexerting unnecessary energy—to me, that kind of ease is invaluable at a price that’s very fair.”

The carry-on sizes come in a traditional option and a bigger carry-on for certain airlines that allow it. The brand also innovated on its hard-sided luggage collection, and now makes a full line of soft-sided durable ballistic nylon and outer pocket additions.

Why Trust Us

In order to keep up with new innovations and product releases, the Men's Health editors and writers are continually testing the latest travel gear. Aside from covering travel gear in our evergreen roundups, we also highlight the best new travel gear in our gift guides and annual Travel Awards .
When it comes to luggage, we make sure to line up real-world testing opportunities anytime we're on assignment or traveling for pleasure. Then, we bring the luggage back to our office to thoroughly inspect each bag to determine what design notes surprised us, and what could use more work.
We consider how luggage brands appeals to specific types of traveler, as opposed to making generic assumptions that every traveler's needs are the same. We take into account everything from checked bags to carry-ons, to duffel bags and travel backpacks. Travelers who come to us will gain a full understanding of the luggage landscape and how it fits their lifestyle.

Read more: Learn How Men's Health Tests Products

How to Find the Right Luggage

Like your favorite pair of jeans , your favorite piece of luggage is going to come from a brand that fits your lifestyle. When looking for the best suitcase brand, you're going to want to write down what quantities you desire in your luggage. Here's what you should look for.

Frequency of Travel

The right luggage is going to fit with how you travel. If you're only going out of town a handful times a year, then you don't necessarily need to splurge on a super expensive suitcase or suitcase set. In fact, we'd recommend going for a wallet-friendly suitcase or set from brands like Samsonite or Coolife if you're not traveling that often, as these brands will hold up for years with light to medium use and not cost you very much upfront. If you're traveling a lot (for pleasure, business, or both) then you're going to probably want to lean towards making an investment in a piece of luggage that's made to handle continuous wear and tear. "When it comes to buying the right piece for your travel needs, my advice is always to opt for something that fits your lifestyle and budget," says Justin Crabbe.

How You Travel

After estimating how much you will be traveling throughout the year, you can start to write down your travel habits, or how you travel. Do you pack heavy or pack light? What features do you want or need? This is where features like TSA locks, 360-degree wheels, special laptop compartments, built-in portable chargers, and more are to be considered. "Look for ways to elevate your internal organization, like dividers, pockets, and sections that will help you keep your belongings organized and easily accessible during your travels," says Sean Oblizalo. Another note: if you're into adventure traveling, look for a bag that's more flexible, lightweight, and made with weather-resistant materials is your best option. "Look for sturdy fabrics such as nylon or polyester, reinforced stitching, and strong zippers to ensure your luggage can handle the demands of outdoor adventures," says Jackson Groves.

You also want to consider how much you are willing to pay for your suitcase. Some suitcase brands are expensive because they get grouped into high fashion, but suitcases can also be expensive because they're known to last a long time (it's worth mentioning the best luggage brands have a kind of timeless style attributed to them). A few of the best suitcase brands that require a significant investment include RIMOWA, Tumi, and Filson. If you're looking for suitcase brands that provide the best overall value (for the price you pay), consider makers like Samsonite, TravelPro, and CooLife.

Lastly, take note of each luggage brand's warranty. A warranty will help get your suitcase replaced or fixed should it have any issues (like a broken off wheel or damaged handle). Most luggage brands have pretty good warranties these days (usually 5-10 years) but the best warranty you can get on a suitcase is a lifetime warranty. Warranties can be huge for frequent travelers, as your suitcase will wear down with high usage. If you are a frequent traveler, or if you're someone who simply wants the best warranty you can get, go with a suitcase that has a lifetime policy. Premium luggage brands are more likely to have lifetime warranties, so this can be another benefit to going up and investing in an expensive suitcase.

Is Hardside or Softside Luggage Better?

The most popular luggage comes in either a hard-sided or soft-sided structured bag. Like mentioned earlier, the pros and cons of both depend on what you prioritize when you pack. Soft-sided luggage typically has more room for movement, more organizational pockets, and can compress to fit into tight spaces (like the overhead of an airplane). They open with a top flap zip, placing the bulk of storage at the bottom. Softside luggage offers more packing room, but it can throw off the balance of your goods when it’s tossed around and stowed away by airline employees. Basically, soft-sided luggage does not provide as much protection as hard-sided bags—but they are roomier.

Read more: Transformative Trips Every Guy Should Take

Due to advances in making polycarbonate more durable and lighter, hard-sided bags started gaining popularity in the past few years Hardside luggage features a 50/50 split opening (also called a book opening), making each side an equal stabilizer with an outer shell of hard protection. Polycarbonate shells are typically better for business travel. They stack easily but are usually rigid with zero room to expand like a soft-sided bag. The latest hard-sided bags look sleeker and are easier to clean and move—but they require you to be more strategic in your packing.

Other features that you’ll want to consider are weight and wheelability. Many modern suitcases are designed in the lightest possible form, along with four spinner wheels that can swivel 360 degrees to make rolling around the airport, pavement, or hotel floor a breeze.

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Best Luggage for Long Term Travel (2024): Your Ultimate Guide to Hassle-Free Journeys

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If you’re a heavy packer, finding the best luggage for long term travel can be quite the endeavor. Trust me, I’ve been there, and done that. You want something durable, yet lightweight; spacious but compact; stylish and still functional. It’s a balancing act where you don’t want to tip too far in one direction.

Traveling long-term is different from a week-long vacation or business trip. Your suitcase becomes your closet and your carry-on bag is essentially your mobile office. So believe me when I say, quality matters here more than ever.

Between bouncing across continents and living out of my suitcase, I’ve learned a thing or two about what works best for digital nomads on the go. It’s important to cover your bases so your taken care of when you need the most, thats why I always recommend getting travel medical insurance BEFORE your digital nomad journey. Let’s dive into some seriously smart options that are worth considering if you’re in the market for the best-checked luggage.

Understanding Long Term Travel Requirements

When it comes to long-term travel, I’ve learned from experience that choosing the right luggage is crucial. Not just any suitcase will do – you need something designed for durability, versatility, and ease of transport.

Essential Features of the Best Luggage for Long Term Travel

While aluminum luggage might look appealing with its sleek design and robust build, it doesn’t serve well on extended journeys. It’s way too heavy! Trust me, I made this mistake during my 6 cities in 6 months adventure and ended up shelling out over $800 in airport fees because my luggage was overweight. Don’t be like me, choose something lightweight & stylish, and your wallet will thank you!

So what should you look for instead?

Lightweight : A suitcase that’s light when empty means more weight allowance for your stuff.
Durability : Look for high-quality materials that can withstand being tossed around during transit.
Size & Capacity : It needs to be spacious enough to accommodate all essentials yet compact enough for easy handling.
Versatility : Wheels or straps? Hard-shell or soft-sided? These choices depend on your type of travel.

These factors aren’t just preferences – they’re necessities!

Top-Rated Luggage Brands Suited for Extended Journeys

Let’s compare some top-rated brands suited perfectly for long-term travelers or digital nomads:

Each of these brands offers unique perks and drawbacks, but all are reliable choices for long-term travel.

Remember, the best luggage for digital nomads is the one that meets your travel needs while making your journey easier and more enjoyable!

How to Pack Efficiently for Long Periods Away

Now onto my favorite discovery: packing cubes ! Specifically, compression ones. Imagine being able to neatly organize and compress your clothes into compact blocks that fit snugly into your digital nomad luggage—well dream no more! Trust me on this one; after over five years of use, I can confidently say they’ve changed the game for me.

They’re not just efficient; they make unpacking and repacking at each new location a breeze!

Packing for an extended trip can feel intimidating. But I’ve learned a few tricks along the way that have transformed my packing game. For those of us embracing the digital nomad lifestyle, choosing the best luggage and knowing how to pack it is as important as choosing our next destination.

Another storage tip I have for long-term travel is vacuum sealed storage bags . These are your secret weapon when it comes to maximizing space in your luggage—especially this one I’ve been using.

The key here is shrinkage; these bags shrink down bulky items like jackets or sweaters, freeing up precious real estate in your suitcase.

Choosing the Right Baggage for Your Next Adventure

Traveling long-term isn’t just a vacation, it’s a lifestyle. And for digital nomads like me, choosing the best luggage can make or break that lifestyle. Trust me when I say you’ll want something durable, practical, and versatile for your next flight!

To wrap things up:

Durability is essential; look for materials like ballistic nylon or polycarbonate
Size matters; don’t pack more than you can carry
Versatility is key; choose multi-purpose bags like duffels

Choosing the right baggage may seem daunting at first but keep these pointers in mind as you shop around and you’ll surely land upon your perfect travel companion!

If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate…

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The Best Carry-On Luggage, Tested & Reviewed By Our Editors

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.

Carry-ons are arguably the piece of luggage travelers pull out most often, whether it's the only bag coming on a weekend trip or used in tandem with a checked suitcase. It also spends the most time with us in transit, which means the functionality is even more important: Are your belongings easy to get to if you need to retrieve something while waiting at your gate? Is there a space to stash whatever item you remember on your way out the door? These are a few of the things Traveler editors considered when sifting through the seemingly endless options on the market. We set out to find the best of the best—bags that are lightweight but still sturdy, have enough space to house clothes, shoes, toiletries, and accessories, and will hold up for many trips to come. After months of testing, these are the pieces we've deemed the best carry-on luggage of 2023.

What we considered:

When testing out carry-on luggage, we asked editors and contributors to consider several factors: How light a bag was on its own, how much it could fit, whether the design and organizational factors were helpful (and aesthetically pleasing), how well it held up in transit, how easy or difficult it is to roll and pick up, whether it's worth the price point, and if there are any unique features that set it apart from other carry-on suitcases or bags they've used.

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.

What size can a carry-on bag be?

It depends on which airline you're flying with, but typically, dimensions are limited to 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high for domestic airlines (Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, Delta, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue, and United Airlines adhere to these figures; American Airlines allows for an extra inch of height, while and Frontier Airlines and Southwest Airlines's max is 24" x 16" x 10" and Spirit Airlines's allotment is 22" x 18" x 10"). Some airlines provide a single number; dimensions must add up to that number or below to be considered compliant.

International airlines tend to have slightly different size requirements; 21.5" x 15.5" x 9" is typical, but here are some exact specifications by airline:

Air Canada: 21.5" x 15.5" x 9"
Air France: 21.6" x 13.7" x 9.8"
British Airways: 22" x 18" x 10"
Emirates: 21.6" x 15" x 8.6"
Lufthansa: 21.6" x 15.7" x 9"
Qatar Airways: 20" x 15" x 10"
Singapore Airlines: 45 total inches

What can’t I take in my carry-on?

Liquids over 3.4 ounces (100mL) are not allowed in your carry-on. Additionally, firearms and other potentially hazardous items are prohibited. Check TSA's website for specific items you may have questions about.

Are carry-on bags free?

Again, it depends on which you're flying with and what kind of ticket you purchase. These airlines offer one free carry-on (and one personal item), regardless of what level ticket you bought:

Alaska Airlines
American Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines

While these airlines offer one free carry-on (and one personal item) to all travelers except those who purchased a base fare:

United Airlines

Top recommendations:

Best overall carry-on: Paravel The Aviator Carry-On
Best lightweight carry-on: July Carry-On Light
Best budget carry-on: Béis The Carry-On Roller
Best expandable carry-on: Away Carry-On Flex
Best softside carry-on: Travelpro Platinum Elite softside spinner

Weight: 8.2 lbs. Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9"

Pros: Glides smoothly even when fully packed, unique look and feel Cons: No external phone charger included, could use an interior pocket along the length of the bag

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.

Weight: 8.36 lbs. Dimensions: 23" x 16" x 10"

Pros: Comfortable handle, fairly easy to clean Cons: Although the beige color is incredibly pretty, it gets dirty very quickly; I would recommend a darker color

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.”

Weight: 7.9 lbs. Dimensions: 23" x 15" x 9.5"

Pros: Durable wheels, easy to lift, compression straps Cons: Because of its size, it may be checked on smaller planes or flagged to be checked on planes at full capacity

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, 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.”

Weight: 3.9 lbs. Dimensions: 21" x 14" × 7.5"

Pros: I enjoy the ease with which you can move this piece of luggage around; it feels very zippy Cons: The telescopic handle sometimes sticks

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.

Weight: 11.1 lbs. Dimensions: 22" x 16" x 9"

Pros: Extremely functional and stylish, glides smoothly even when full Cons : It’s a little large for a carry-on; I've had to check it twice so far

Tumi bags are an investment—at over $1,000, this is one of the priciest bags on our list of the best carry-on luggage—but for frequent business travelers or those looking for a lifelong investment piece, it might be the bag for you. It's gone with former Traveler editor Alex Erdekian on trips to Mexico, Italy and France, a bachelorette party at Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire, and Boston. She calls it “the most beautiful suitcase I’ve owned,” and appreciates the “zipper expansion that drastically increases the depth of the suitcase,” as well as the “sneaky zipper around the front that allows you to pull out clothes quickly.” It is one of the heavier bags on the list, though, and Erdekian says she's had difficulty lifting it overhead when full. Also of note: It comes with a five-year warranty, and can be customized with a monogram or set of “pop of color” accessories.

Weight: 6.53 lbs. Dimensions: 21.5" x 15" x 9.5"

Pros: Budget-friendly, very lightweight Cons: Since its design is pretty plain, it's not the most aesthetically pleasing suitcase on our list

This hardside 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. The hardside spinner comes in black, navy, bright blue, and orange.

Weight: 8.1 lbs. Dimensions: 23" x 15" x 10.3"

Pros: The front zipper is such a plus, with lots of sections for organizing Cons: The color range isn’t huge—I wish they alternated in more shades

This Arlo Skye zipper-front suitcase has gone on many trips with Spurrell —she alternates between this and a Paravel carry-on, and this one has been to Peru, upstate New York, and Montauk: “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.” Sleek yet durable, it comes with a removable charger (boasting both USB C and USB A ports), two shoe bags, a laundry bag, and a cotton storage cover. The aesthetics are a plus, too: “I love the design of this bag—it feels like a reliable, sleek rolling bag, with design you’ll never get tired of.”

Weight: 7.8 lbs. Dimensions: 23.5" x 14.5" x 9"

Pros: Expandable design, multiple exterior pockets Cons: Some travelers may prefer a clamshell opening; may be too large for some international flights

Every inch counts—especially if you're traveling with just a carry-on—and softside luggage offers a little more give than hard-shell bags. This expandable pick has a telescopic handle, spinner wheels for easy gliding, and an external USB port for charging your devices. It's earned an “Amazon's Choice” distinction thanks to its consistently high reviews and competitive pricing (its larger size, which has many similar internal features, is a favorite of former Traveler editor Louis Cheslaw). The suitcase is available in several shades (including black, Bordeaux, and true navy) and three carry-on sizes (19-, 20-, and 21-inches).

Weight: 8.15 lbs. Dimensions: 21.7" x 13.7" x 9"

Pros: Expandable, easy to roll Cons: Scuffs easily, no exterior pockets

Go one step further, space-wise, with this expandable suitcase, which gives you an additional 2.25" of packing space when needed. Traveler 's global associate director of audience development Lara Kramer has used this bag for trips as long as a week (including a trip to London ), and noted how smoothly it rolled across almost any surface, thanks to its 360-degree spinner wheels. “The joy of this luggage is its simplicity,” she says. “It's a pretty straightforward design, but what it does, it does very well: glide smoothly and easily with its 360-degree spinner wheels and provide the luxury of expanding to add more room if needed. Between my husband and I, one of us is always snagging it as our main carry-on.” Kramer recommends choosing a unique color for your bag, or adding your favorite sticker to the outer hard shell to help it stand out, and notes the inevitable scuffs can look pretty jarring against the black colorway.

Weight: 12.5 lbs. Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9"

Pros: Very easy to store, even in small places; soft handle grip Cons: Expandable mechanism can be tricky to lock into place

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.

Weight: 7.16 lbs. Dimensions: 21.5" x 14" x 9"

Pros: Responsive handle, very lightweight Cons: No exterior pockets for added storage

Lightweight with a rugged exterior, frequent traveler Patrick Thompson noted that this bag “seems like it would hold up to the hustle and bustle of an airport, getting jammed into an overhead compartment, and any excessive packing into the trunk of a car.” He's been using it regularly for over a year, bringing it on trips as long as two weeks (Argentina and Italy), as well as long weekend trips to Utah, Georgia, and Florida, and while it has gotten scuffed, it's still in good shape, and is a bag he'd recommend to other travelers. “I love the color and that it's very lightweight. I find it to be easily rollable when traveling.” While there is “a stealth pocket on the top corner that holds smaller items, which can be very useful and convenient while trudging through the airport,” he hasn't often utilized the front exterior zipper, which is meant for easy access to the main compartment, and would prefer another exterior pocket in place of it.

Weight: 10 lbs. Dimensions: 20" x 14" x 7.9"

Pros: Built-in garment folder, interior compression system, exterior pockets Cons: Doesn't roll as easily when full

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).

Weight: 9.9 lbs. Dimensions: 14" x 22" x 9.5" Pros: Keeps dress clothes wrinkle-free, exterior pocket to hold documents or other small items Cons: May not be large enough to be your only suitcase on a trip

Heading to a wedding or business trip ? Kramer vouches for this compact Travelpro garment bag. “The lay-flat garment bag design is the real gem of this carry-on. It holds way more than you think—and arriving with all of your dresses and shirts wrinkle-free is a huge game changer.” The durable nylon fabric, made with a Duraguard coating, is a bonus, too.

Weight: 7.9 lbs. Dimensions: 22.8" x 9.4" x 15"

Pros: Smooth-rolling wheels, built-in phone charger, antimicrobial lining Cons: Scratched easily on first use

Tested by destinations editor Shannon McMahon , who prefers to travel with expandable hard-side spinners, this one stands out for “its super roomy packing capacity and its smooth-rolling wheels.” It's 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.

Weight: 6.06 lbs. Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9" Pros: Wheels smoothly, easy to carry around Cons: Laptop sleeve doesn't fit much else, so if not using it, feels like an unnecessary use of space

Frequent traveler Katie Thompson has been using this suitcase for over a year, bringing it to Italy, Argentina, Florida, upstate New York, and Savannah, and calls it “an organizer's dream.” The Samsonite carry-on is loaded with zip pockets and mesh nets to give every item its own place. Thompson says it “can comfortably fit a week's worth of clothing if you are a light packer, but is probably best for a weekend trip,” and notes it rolls easily and in all directions. Another perk: The hardshell exterior has built in patterns that help to hide any scratches, though it has gotten some scuffs with time. Overall, it is “sleek, unique, and compact,” though overall storage is on the smaller side: “The additional pockets on the top side make the inside smaller,” Thompson says. “It fits less than my previous carry-on, but I still managed 10 days in Italy with it.”

Weight: 8.25 lbs. Dimensions: 21" x 13.5" x 9.5" Pros: Front pocket for last-minute items, plenty of interior compartments Cons: Limited color options, no expansion

Hard-shell bags with a front pocket are few and far between, but this Calpak bag makes a strong case for it. Executive editor Erin Florio says she “actually [looks] forward to packing this thing;” 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 it. “The inner compartments make it really easy to organize all your items, from shoes to laundry to toiletries, which helps you fit in more,” she says. As for that exterior pocket, it can fit a laptop, hardcover book, and magazines.

Weight: 6.3 lbs. Dimensions: 23" H x 14.5" W x 9.5" D Pros: Lightweight and fits a lot of clothing including shoes Cons: Hard to lift when heavy. Also hard to clean/get scuffs out

Recommended by associate social media manager Kayla Brock , this expandable carry-on has a mesh zip compartment and zip-lock compartments inside, which make organizing clothes, accessories, and toiletries easy. She has brought it to North Dakota, Europe, New York, Zanzibar, Seattle, Jamaica, Chicago, Colorado, and the Cayman Islands, packing for as long as three weeks with it (though in winter time, it's better suited for weekend trips). “Although it originally looks like my clothes wouldn’t fit (I’m guilty of overpacking), the suitcase closed with ease,” Brock says. In the year-plus that she's been using it, it has gotten some scuffs and discoloration on certain parts of the body, and the zippers have bent a little; however, Brock still strongly recommends it: “Out of all the suitcases I have this is my absolute favorite and without a doubt the one that I take with me on a trip.”

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The 11 Very Best Pieces of Rolling Luggage

“it has survived being dragged across sand, dirt, and cobblestones.”.

Best rolling-luggage set

Best soft-side

Whether I’m running frantically toward the gate or strolling through security at a more leisurely pace, my trusty spinner suitcase makes travel so much easier. It’s helpful for keeping me organized once I arrive at my destination, too. Unlike most backpacks or duffels, the best rolling luggage has storage compartments, sturdy handles, and plenty of space. There’s something so pleasing about packing your items neatly before a trip, especially if your suit case has built-in compression storage.

To find rolling luggage for every kind of traveler, fellow Strategist travel writer Rachael Griffiths and I tested a dozen or so different pieces, from stretchy nylon cases with warranties that last a lifetime to bash-resistant plastic luggage. We tended to prefer hard-side cases over a soft-side, and especially those with the aforementioned compression dividers, which allow for a bit of overpacking. While some pieces may cost more than others, we’ve also learned that if you’re not fussy about the type of plastics used (ABS costs less than polycarbonate but can withstand some real rattling in transit), there are bargains to be found. While you’re here, you may want to check out my guides to the best Dopp kits and the best refillable toiletry bottles .

What we’re looking for

Hard-shell vs. soft-side.

Most experts I spoke to prefer hard-shell luggage, and I agree. It’s durable and easy to clean, it protects your clothes if it rains, and it’s harder for bedbugs to penetrate if you encounter any on your trip. The hard-shells on this list are made from either ABS, an inexpensive but less durable plastic; polycarbonate, a more durable but also lightweight material; or aluminum, which is slightly heavier, but the most durable. Most on this list are polycarbonate, but there are a few soft-sided pieces too, for those who haven’t made the switch yet. While they aren’t as durable, “from a repair standpoint, we always feel that the canvas soft-sided luggage is better than the hard-side luggage because you can repair canvas,” Tony Pecorella, president and CEO of Modern Leather Goods, a repair shop in Manhattan, says. He’s an authorized repairman for many of the luggage brands below and says someone comes in with a cracked hard-shell every day and “there’s no repairing them at all.” So in addition to soft-side suitcases being fixable, they’re also overpacking-friendly because you can stuff more in them than a rigid polycarbonate case (and finesse a larger carry-on to fit in an overhead bin, too.)

Our experts continuously raved about the wheels on their favorite suitcases, describing them as smooth and sturdy. Most were talking about their four spinner wheels, which make the suitcase much easier to push along as it can glide in all directions. For comfort and ease of use, four wheels is definitely the way to go and is our recommendation, but again, Pecorella says it’s not the best choice from a repair standpoint. “It is always stronger to have the case that has the two wheels on it,” he says. “Those wheels are encased, so the only thing that can really happen on those wheels is that they wear out eventually like tires on your car.” With the four spinners — which Pecorella fully admits to using personally — he says because they aren’t encased and just are attached to the bottom of the suitcase, you run the risk of them being banged off. “If you’re rolling off a curb or if you hit the escalator too hard, it’ll just snap the wheel right off,” he says. “That’s one of the biggest repairs we do here all day.” However, a good warranty should cover this (more on that below.)

Almost none of the suitcases on this list go the easy-repair route of being soft-side and having two wheels, and that’s because most have pretty good warranties. The biggest phrase you want to avoid is “limited to manufacturer’s defects,” which Pecorella says means they basically cover nothing and will attribute damage to wear and tear, or say it’s your fault or the airline’s fault. “Lifetime warranty” is ideal.

If you’ve checked an overweight bag before, you’ll know how much those extra charges can sting. Lightweight suitcases are ideal for overpackers — including myself — so I’ve included each case’s weight when empty.

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: From 7.4 pounds

If you’re after a relatively affordable suitcase that doesn’t have to be babied on cobbled streets and will survive being dragged up several flights of stairs, I’m not sure you can do much better than Away. The brand’s sturdy spinner wheels can truly take a battering, and they’ll also glide joyfully across flat surfaces when given the opportunity. I’ve been testing the Bigger Carry-on, which has a 50-liter capacity yet still fits in most overhead bins, over the past couple of months. Griffiths, who lives in Europe (where airline luggage requirements are much stingier), tested the original, smaller size and was surprised by how much she could fit into it. All of the brand’s rolling-luggage pieces feature the same qualities essential to a modern suitcase and come highly praised by travel experts. Stephanie Be from travelbreak.net and Buena calls out the “TSA-approved lock, 360-degree wheels, tough hardware, and sleek design.” Kelly Farber , founder of KF Literary Scouting, took only the larger size on a three-week, seven-city business trip, and says, “That thing just would not quit.” Strategist editor Maxine Builder also has experience with the Away warranty after her internal zipper broke in 2019: “There was a fair bit of back-and-forth over the next four months, but I ended up with a replacement suitcase in exactly the same limited-edition colorway with the same hand-painted monogram, all for free.” Five years later, she’s still traveling with it.

Best less expensive polycarbonate rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited ten year | Weight: 7.9 pounds

Usually, cheaper hardside suitcases are made from ABS, a less durable plastic than the polycarbonate more expensive brands use. That’s why this case is such a rarity: It costs less than $200 (and is often on sale), and it’s made from the more durable polycarbonate. It also includes all of the features I’d expect from more expensive brands, like four 365-degree spinner wheels, TSA-approved locks, and a built-in USB port to use with a power bank. Travel blogger Courtney Vondran says that “it’s a great option for budget travelers or first-timer carry-on travelers who want nice pieces for more affordable prices.” So far, Vondran has taken her case with her on “road trips throughout the Midwest, a work trip to Egypt, vacation to L.A. , travel conference in Memphis, romantic getaway to Maine,” — and it’s all been protected by the case’s limited ten-year warranty, which covers any major damages beyond reasonable wear and tear.

Quince Carry-on Hard Shell Suitcase 20 Inches

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: None | Weight: From 6.2 pounds

Quince , the five-year-old start-up that seems to make a little bit of everything, recently added rolling luggage to its growing inventory . I’ve been testing out the brand’s carry-on-size suitcase as well as its larger, checked one, both made from the same durable polycarbonate that Away and Open Story use. In terms of weight and feel, Quince’s affordable suitcases are surprisingly similar to Away’s in particular. When I nudged an Away Bigger Carry-on and Quince Carry-on across my apartment floor side by side, their wheels carried them about the same distance, and their retractable handles are almost identical in form and function. Both brands use YKK zippers and TSA-approved combination locks. Inside, the compression compartments and removable laundry bag are also essentially the same. One key difference: Quince does not offer a warranty on its products. If you’re a very frequent traveler and know you’ll be putting your luggage through its paces, that’s definitely something to consider. If you’re vacationing for only a couple of weeks each year, though, it’s potentially less of a deal-breaker.

Best less-expensive ABS rolling luggage

Amazon Basics Hardside Carry-on Spinner Suitcase

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: ABS hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited warranty | Weight: 7.3 pounds

This Amazon Basics case is made from the less durable plastic ABS, but it’s still one of Griffiths’s favorites. “In my experience, it’s rare to find a case that costs under $100 that can compete with more expensive brands,” she says. “As it is made from a cheaper plastic, I was surprised by how thick and sturdy the suitcase feels — it has a nice thud when you knock against the exterior.” As well as being thick, the exterior is also scratch resistant , and the case also has a well-designed handle, smoothly rolling wheels, handles for comfort, and a built-in lock. The warranty is where this bag falls slightly short, though (and may explain the cheaper price tag): it’s only a three-year limited warranty that protects against defects in materials and workmanship — which Pecorella says is the type to avoid.

Best rolling luggage for frequent fliers

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Five -year manufacturer’s guarantee | Weight: 7.1 pounds

The Rimowa Essential line of suitcases is excellent; more than ten experts we spoke with recommended the brand, but its extravagant price prevents it from taking the top spot on this list. If you do have the money to spare, it comes in 11 colors and two finishes and works like a dream. Owners especially praise the wheels. “I won’t pretend to understand all the physics behind the bearings and axles on Rimowa’s bags, but I do know they spin amazingly well through the airport,” Summer Hull, director of travel content at the Points Guy , says. Fellow travel writer Hillary Eaton also told me she had no problem lugging the case on a 48-hour journey from Vancouver to Machu Picchu by “tiny floatplane, three long-haul flights, a five-hour bus, and a two-hour train ride.” Several owners also pointed out how easy it is to get this suitcase repaired if anything goes wrong. However, while there’s a manufacturer’s guarantee of five years, it only applies if you remember to register your product when you purchase it. Otherwise, it lasts for only two.

Best rolling luggage for budget airlines

Take Off Luggage 18-Inch Removable-Wheels Suitcase

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: ABS hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: One-year limited | Weight: 6 pounds

I first learned about this teeny-tiny rolling case when researching the best personal-item-size luggage . It came recommended by Jasmine Anderson and Natasha Wilson , travel agents and co-hosts of the podcast Travel Fly Sexy , as well as packing expert Lauren Kelly . They all praise its snap-off spinner wheels that can slide miraculously into the cruelest of budget-airline baggage-sizers. (“Frontier lately is charging people for wheels and handles sticking out of the sizers,” says Kelly. “That means $100 extra for each leg of the trip.”) Measuring 18 by 14 by eight inches, the suitcase’s rectangular shape maximizes space and allows you to use packing cubes: “I have put a laptop and a week’s worth of clothes in the Take Off,” says Anderson. Kelly agrees that “it will give you the most packing space if your goal is a weeklong trip where you pack a personal item only.” The suitcase comes with a small bag to put its wheels in while your bag is being sized by airline staff; you can also just stash them in your pockets.

Best customizable rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 7.9 pounds

Strategist associate editor Jenna Milliner-Waddell calls July the “the Away of the Down Under.” And while the July Carry-on offers a lot of the same features as the Away, it has the added perk of a USB-C port so you can charge your iPhone or your laptop straight from the bag. July’s smallest carry-on weighs about half as much as Away’s, even though they both have similar liter capacities, and you can personalize it. This particular case sets itself apart with a removable fabric front pocket, which came in handy for Christine Wang, founder of TheSkiGirl who is generally a fan of soft-side luggage. If you’re traveling for work, everything you need is easily accessible, and instead of digging through your bag to remove your laptop at TSA, you can easily just snap this pouch off instead.

Best aluminum rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Aluminum hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 10.1 pounds

Aluminum cases are as tough as they come: unlike with plastic cases, you don’t need to worry about them cracking and spilling all your belongings. They often have the added security of a clamp rather than a zip, which again is less likely to burst. This case comes from Away and has all the same specs as my favorite case overall, though it’s slightly heavier, so you may have to pack a bit lighter if you’re checking it in. Despite this, travel writer Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon says there’s plenty of space for all the essentials she’d need for a three- or four-day trip. Swede White, who works for Amazon and has to travel monthly for his job, told me the only downside to this case is that he finds it scuffs easily. Away acknowledges that this will happen, alluding to it as developing a patina over time — if you prefer a pristine case, it all boils down to personal taste.

Best rolling luggage for overpackers

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 8.36 pounds

If, like me, you can’t travel without taking your entire closet, Béis’s luggage is for you. By unzipping an internal section, the bag expands by up to three inches — meaning you can shove that extra sweater inside. More stuff means a heavier bag, but Béis’s built-in weight-limit indicator ensures you don’t teeter over the 50-pound weight restriction for many checked bags. A red mark will appear if the luggage is over, which should save you some stress and money at the check-in counter. As well as a water-resistant zipper, travel blogger HeyCiara told me she appreciates how the case also has a TSA lock, a handle with ergonomic support, and a built-in laundry and shoe bag to prevent your clothes from getting soiled.

Material: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Lifetime | Weight: Various

If you’re traveling as a family, a set of luggage can be the most efficient and economic way to go. This suitcase set has accompanied Strategist senior editor Ailbhe Malone’s family on trips for two years. Aside from having everything you would expect from a great quality suitcase — “smooth wheels, extremely comfortable handle, more than enough space,” Malone says — these cases are eminently easy to store. That’s because they slot inside one another, meaning you can stash a whole family’s worth of luggage in the space of a single suitcase. The polycarbonate cases come in a range of 11 pleasing colors, and thanks to their construction, any scratches or scuffs will appear as the same shade as the case, no matter how deep. For bigger concerns, the set comes with a lifetime warranty, which covers the wheels, handles, and shells.

Best soft-side rolling luggage

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Lightweight Expandable Upright Luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Nylon soft-side | Compression strap | Wheels: Encased wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 5.4 pounds

From a repair standpoint, this suitcase is a dream. It’s made from easy-to-repair nylon and has just two encased wheels that won’t snap off. It expands up to two inches and has multiple compartments. None of this is groundbreaking, but that’s why I like this bag: It’s simple, effective, and on the less expensive side at under $200. TripSavvy ’s former general manager Molly Fergus told me she’s traveled with the bag across Miami, Cancun, and all over Europe: “It’s survived being dragged across sand, dirt, and cobblestones,” she says. Travelpro’s limited lifetime guarantee covers defects to the wheels, zippers, extension handles, and carrying handles, and this lasts for however long you own it. On top of that, for the first year, your product is backed by its Trusted Companion Promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage caused by an airline and covers the shipping cost for any product that needs to be shipped to one of its repair facilities.

Additional reporting by Rachael Griffiths

Some more rolling luggage we’ve written about

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Luggage

Our experts

• Jasmine Anderson , co-host, Travel Fly Sexy • Alexandra Baackes, travel blogger and founder of Wander Woman Retreats • Stephanie Be, founder of BUENA and blog Travel Break • Gabby Beckford , travel blogger • Kiana Brooks , luxury fashion buyer • Maxine Builder , Strategist editor • Hillary Eaton , food and travel writer • Kelly Farber, founder of KF Literary Scouting • Molly Fergus, former general manager of TripSavvy • Jacqui Gifford, Travel + Leisure editor-in-chief • Nicholas Gill , writer and photographer • Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon , travel writer • Summer Hull, director of travel content at The Points Guy • Jessie Hyman , co-founder of Pruzan Running • Ciara Johnson, travel blogger HeyCiara • Brian Kelly, The Points Guy • Lauren Kelly , packing expert • Ailbhe Malone , Strategist senior editor • Tom Marchant, co-founder of luxury travel and lifestyle brand Black Tomato • Tony Pecorella, president and CEO of Modern Leather Goods • Laura Ratliff , travel writer • Robin Reetz, writer and VP of marketing at Rag & Bone • Lauren Ro, Strategist writer • Alex Sanchez , consumer marketing manager at G Adventures • Chris Schalkx, co-founder of Rice/Potato • Jane Stoller , author of Decluttering for Dummies • Courtney Vondran , travel writer • Christine Wang, founder of TheSkiGirl • Swede White, principal content strategist at Amazon Web Services • Natasha Wilson , co-host, Travel Fly Sexy

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Simple Flying

Travel luggage: examining what works best for flying long-haul.

What's the most efficient way to travel long-haul?

When preparing to embark upon a long journey, it is often challenging for passengers to determine exactly which kind of luggage to bring with them. There are a variety of factors to weigh when this decision is made, including how much they can comfortably carry, airline fees, and what they will need during the long journey. While some opt for heavy packing with family needs or for a longer journey, others attempt to pack light.

Across the board, whatever decision a passenger makes will need to be optimal to match their individual needs. Therefore, those preparing to travel long-haul will first need to evaluate what is important to them, and then be sure to bring luggage appropriately.

Keep fees in mind

When traveling long-haul, fees can really rack up. While most long-haul carriers (with a few very specific exceptions) offer passengers the opportunity to bring a carry-on for free, very few do the same for checked baggage. A passenger on United Airlines with two checked bags, for example, could wind up paying over $170 each way, for a total of $340 roundtrip.

Additionally, passengers who have status on an airline can receive specific discounts. Furthermore, fare classes within economy can affect baggage fees. For example, those flying Basic Economy on United Airlines are subject to higher baggage fees than those with standard economy class tickets.

Passengers should also keep an eye on the weight of their baggage, as airlines all charge extremely high fees for baggage that ends up being over the carrier's weight limit. In this case, it can be more beneficial for travelers to pack their belongings into two separate checked bags than one which may be over the weight limit.

Checked luggage types

For checked baggage, most passengers opt for large wheeled suitcases, which come in both soft and hard cover varieties. While harder suitcases are able to protect the luggage contents more effectively due to their stronger surface, softer suitcases can often expand and fit even more items.

Get the latest aviation news straight to your inbox: Sign up for our newsletters today .

Large duffel bags, which were once a common passenger choice, are less popular now due to the greater effort required to move them. Duffels, however, can be some of the largest capacity bags for long-haul travelers to use.

Choosing carry-ons for your long-haul adventure

The most important thing for any traveler to remember about their carry-on is that they should fit everything they require for not just the trip, but also a day or two after arrival in the event the passenger's luggage doesn't arrive or is trapped in a different location. Passengers are permitted to bring a carry-on bag, in addition to a personal item.

For carry-on bags, women and men both tend to opt for wheeled suitcases, although some hand-held small duffels are used. For personal items, backpacks are likely the best choice for long-haul flights as they can easily hold all of a passenger's essentials as well as an extra set of clothes or two. However, some opt for smaller purses or briefcases depending on personal needs. Passengers in business class or first class cabins will likely have more room made available for their carry-on baggage.

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

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.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of 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. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

A graphic comparing the difference in capacity between a 45-liter and a 35-liter backpack.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

The packed Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack, shown fully open so that the contents are accessible.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

The Osprey Farpoint/ Fairview 40 Travel Pack, one of our also-great picks for the best carry-on travel backpack, shown in black.

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

View of the straps on the reverse of the Osprey travel backpack.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

The Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L, our also-great pick for the best carry-on travel backpack.

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

The Tortuga Backpack Pro shown with the front clamshell lid in the open position.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
It's heavy. We’ve also fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be—the difference is noticeable—and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. But if you think you would struggle carrying this model, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

A graphic illustrating a clamshell bag opening

Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

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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A person in an outdoor environment wearing one of our picks for best buy it for life backpack with a minimalist look, the GoRuck GR1.

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Our picks for best laptop backpack pictured with school supplies.

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Protect Your Trip »

The best carry-on luggage of 2024.

Discover the best carry-on luggage for your unique travel style and needs.

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Things aren't always as they seem – especially when it comes to luggage. In our quest to find the best carry-on bags, we discovered that while some suitcases look good, they don't always hold up to the demands of travel. Some designs have attractive features that add bulk but not additional functionality, while others just don't live up to the hype.

To determine the best carry-on luggage, we tested dozens of bags on countless trips to find the ideal bag for every travel need. Read on to find the best option in a variety of categories, tested and reviewed by our team of experts.

Best Overall: ROAM Carry-On Front Pocket

Jump to features and expert insights ↓
Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-on Hardside Spinner

Best Hard-sided: Away The Carry-On

Best soft-sided: samsonite solyte dlx carry-on spinner, best lightweight: july carry on light, best for international travel: delsey paris helium aero international carry-on - expandable spinner, best affordable: amazon basics 20-inch hardside spinner.

Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner
Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Best for Business Travel: Amazon Basics Expandable Softside Carry-On Spinner – 20.4 Inch

Best luxury: carl friedrik the carry-on pro.

Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder–22"

Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time this article was published; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. Original photos were taken by our editors during luggage testing.)

Price: $625 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14.25 x 9.75 inches | Weight: 8.3 pounds Packing capacity: 4-7 days; 37 liters | Color options: Custom color combinations include red, black, lilac and slate Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime with a 100-day trial

This fully customizable suitcase allows travelers to create a one-of-a-kind carry-on bag. From the front and back of the bag to the handles, zippers and wheels, you choose the color combination you love.

However, it's not all about the aesthetics: This hard-shell suitcase has 360-degree ball bearing wheels that roll easily over multiple surfaces, including brick sidewalks and moving walkways. The telescoping handle is sturdy and adjustable, which makes the bag glide with you, and the front-access pocket has a key fob and room for a laptop, phone, glasses and small travel essentials. There's also a built-in TSA lock. The back of the suitcase has an inset with a monogrammable leather tag to keep your personal information discreet while traveling.

Note: This carry-on is currently on closeout with limited color availability.

What our editors say:

I was extremely impressed from the moment I opened the box. It was nicely packaged in a blue ROAM-branded dust bag and the carry-on is beautifully constructed. It's made of high-quality materials, and I found the compression panels with mesh zippered compartments to be extremely useful for both maximizing space and keeping items in place while traveling. But what really sets this bag apart is how easy it is to maneuver when fully packed for a weeklong trip. It glides effortlessly over all types of terrain, even inlaid brick sidewalks! The customized color scheme (which is really easy to do) takes this carry-on to a new level. Plus, you can create a coordinating tote or backpack to match. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Best Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner in cream on a pathway outside.

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner in cream.

Price: $369.99 or less

Dimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 10 days; 45 liters | Color options: White, red, blue, green or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner is a truly well-rounded carry-on with a plethora of unique features. USB A & C ports on the outside of the bag give easy access to charging. (A power bank is not included, though the bag does have a pocket for one inside the expansion zipper.) Self-aligning magnetic wheels – a reviewer-favorite feature – allow painless travel through the airport as well as on roads, sidewalks, uneven surfaces and more. A built-in TSA zipper lock offers ultimate protection for your possessions.

Even without the features listed above, this Travelpro spinner is, at its core, a high-quality piece. The hard outer shell is ultra-strong and 100% polycarbonate; aluminum corner guards further protect your belongings. The clamshell-style suitcase has two large interior compartments along with three extra pockets, one of which is water-resistant, and the expansion zipper allows for an extra 2 inches of packing room. Plus, this carry-on is made with genuine leather trim, so you can travel in style as well as comfort.

There are some amazing features on this carry-on, but my favorite is the wheels – as someone who typically prefers hands-free travel (primarily backpacks), I found that the way this suitcase easily glides around everywhere absolutely changed my mind about wheeled luggage. Just know that since this is one of the larger bags on this list, I would still check your airline's carry-on size requirements before traveling (though it's been tested for most major domestic airlines, and it fit perfectly on Delta). – Leilani Osmundson, Digital Producer

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $275 or less

Dimensions: 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches | Weight: 7.5 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 39.8 liters | Color options: Black, navy, blue gray or olive, plus 2 glossy options Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited

When it comes to hard-sided carry-on luggage , nothing beats The Carry-On by Away. The bag is lightweight yet indestructible thanks to a 100% polycarbonate exterior. Plus, you can easily wipe away most scratches with a magic eraser.

In late 2023, Away launched a new iteration of The Carry-On that somehow made it even more efficient. The most notable new features are an additional underside grab handle, three extra interior compartments, and an enhanced compression system that upholds the bag's ability to accommodate nearly a week's worth of clothing. The bag's 360-degree wheels are also slimmer than those of its predecessor for improved maneuverability. While Away has long been known for its neutral colored matte options, glossy options of this bag are now available.

The Away Carry-On is my ride or die. I've taken it on so many trips over the past five-plus years and it's still in perfect shape. I know I'll have it with me for many years to come. – Amanda Norcross, Content and SEO Strategist

Samsonite SoLyte DLX Carry-On Spinner in blue in an alley.

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

The Samsonite SoLyte DLX Carry-On Spinner in blue.

Price: $199.99 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 7.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Black, gray, green, aqua blue or royal blue Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

This classic soft-sided option from Samsonite offers everything you need for a smooth trip. There are three spacious pockets and a trolley strap on the outside so you can stack it on top of another rolling suitcase, as well as a USB port for charging your phone (though you'll have to purchase a battery separately).

Inside the suitcase, three more zippered pockets – including one for wet items – help you stay organized, while buckles keep the main compartment's tie-down straps out of your way while packing. This spinner can conveniently expand by 0.75 inches, but keep in mind if you're flying that overpacking may put it over your carry-on size allowance.

I've used other spinner suitcases in the past, but none of them glide as smoothly as this bag, with its 360-degree dual-spinner wheels. I also love the high-quality, lightweight material, but my favorite part is its organizational features – especially the WetPak pocket. I'd highly recommend the Samsonite SoLyte DLX for anyone who needs a trusty soft-sided carry-on for a flight; it definitely fits more than I thought it would. – Catriona Kendall, Associate Editor

July Carry On Light in black against a sunny window.

Price: $245 or less

Dimensions: 21.25 x 14.17 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 3.9 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Beige, light green, dark green, lilac, charcoal or 3 others Hard- or soft-sided: Hard | Warranty: Lifetime with 100-day returns

Weighing just under 4 pounds, this bag is the lightest hard-sided carry-on we found on the market. It's constructed with an extremely durable German polycarbonate shell, and the interior has two mesh zippered compartments to keep your belongings from shifting. The inner nylon lining is also resistant to water and stains. To make the suitcase easy to maneuver, there's a top carry handle, a telescoping handle and dual-spinner wheels.

I was absolutely shocked by how light this suitcase is. While some lightweight designs can be extremely flimsy, this July carry-on is very durable and holds a good amount of clothing. With compression packing cubes I was able to pack enough clothing for a week. It was extremely easy to put in the plane's overhead compartment, and the wheels rolled very smoothly for my entire journey. The only thing I noticed is that since the bag is so lightweight, the trolley bag I had was making it want to topple. Next time, I'd use a smaller tote or a north-south design to avoid that issue. – Rachael Hood

The DELSEY PARIS Helium Aero International Carry-On - Expandable Spinner in blue.

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $179.99 or less

Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 10 inches | Weight: 8.16 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 41 liters | Color options: Black, blue, red or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

This DELSEY PARIS carry-on is a well-built piece of hard-sided luggage. It meets carry-on suitcase size restrictions for most international airlines and offers an easily accessible front compartment – ideal for a laptop up to 15.6 inches or other items you want to be able to grab quickly. The suitcase has a TSA lock and two spacious internal compartments for clothing, shoes and travel gear. The double-spinner wheels glide smoothly across all types of surfaces, and the handle pulls out and retracts with ease.

I was incredibly impressed by this little workhorse of a carry-on bag. There are so many different pockets and compartments within it for organization, and it fits a surprising amount of clothes, shoes and accessories. The handle and wheels make it easy to maneuver, and the glossy exterior makes it look sleek and chic. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Textured exterior of Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner.

Price: $80 or less

Dimensions: 21.46 x 14.76 x 9.45 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 23 liters | Color options: Black, navy blue, orange or light blue Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year

The Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner is similar to many other hard-sided luggage products on the market, but it's available at a fraction of the price. The ABS shell is textured, so even if you – or luggage handlers – bang it around a bit, it does not show scuffs or scratches easily. The double-spinner wheels (a must, honestly, in today's luggage landscape) make the bag effortless to maneuver.

Inside, one side of the bag features a compression strap, while the other has a large fabric zippered closure, complete with a few organizer pockets for smaller items. Thanks to its availability on Amazon Prime, the carry-on luggage ships quickly, so it's also a great option if you need new luggage in a crunch.

This carry-on bag is a superb selection for the budget-conscious traveler. I appreciated how much I was able to get into this bag (it doesn't look huge, but it fit quite a lot), and the textured exterior really ups the durability factor. The compression straps and the interior organizer even helped me squeeze in a bit more. – Erin Evans

Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner

Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner in blue against stone wall.

Price: $699 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 (up to 11.5) inches | Weight: 10 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 37-48 liters | Color options: Black, navy or olive Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

The Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner has a standout feature that other bags on this list don't: one-touch CX expansion. Exclusive to Briggs & Riley, this technology allows your bag to expand and compress in one swift motion. Simply press and pull up on the red levers found at opposite ends of the bag, and it will grow 2.5 inches. Once you've packed your belongings, push down on the buttons to compress the bag before zipping it up.

This bag also features a garment folder to reduce wrinkles in a suit or dress, as well as cinch-down garment panels to secure the clothing in place. Other convenient features include interior mesh compartments for organization, an exterior pocket for airport essentials (or even your laptop) and a signature PowerPocket where you can charge your smartphone.

While the bag is undoubtedly an investment at $700, its "simple as that" guarantee (free repairs forever, no questions asked) – plus sturdy features like impact-resistant corner guards and self-repairing zippers – means you'll have it for life.

When it comes to quality, this is the best luggage I've ever used – period. The compression/expansion system is just the icing on the cake. – Amanda Norcross

Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

The CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage in black.

Price: $165 or less

Dimensions: 16 x 14.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 5.1 pounds Packing capacity: 2-4 days; 34 liters | Color options: Chocolate, oatmeal or rose quartz Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 2-year limited

Compact and filled with useful features, this CALPAK underseater has a water-resistant exterior, a TSA-approved lock, and side and top handles for easy lifting into the overhead or pushing under the seat. There's a telescoping handle, a luggage trolley sleeve and two exterior pockets for stowing small items like your passport, boarding pass and earbuds.

On the inside, there's a padded laptop sleeve, multiple interior pockets and compression straps. For added convenience, the main panel can be secured via built-in snaps to get your laptop out while traveling (and keep your other belongings from spilling out), or you can unsnap it while packing to maximize the interior storage space.

When I'm traveling on a quick trip with my laptop, this is my go-to bag. Its compact size glides easily under the seat, and it's also compact and light enough to fit into the overhead bin even on the smallest regional planes. I love the laptop sleeve and the zippered exterior pocket for my book, earbuds and wipes. To maximize the interior space, I use compression cubes from Lug , and I'm able to squeeze in four to five outfits, a pair of shoes and daily necessities. – Rachael Hood

The Amazon Basics Expandable Softside Carry-On Spinner – 20.4 Inch in black.

Price: $83 or less

Dimensions: 20.4 x 14.9 x 8.2 inches | Weight: 6.35 pounds Packing capacity: 2-3 days; 26 liters | Color options: Black, olive, gray, red, blue or purple Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year

This simple but sturdy carry-on piece from Amazon is a great option for business travelers, thanks to its front pocket for easy laptop access, smooth double-spinner wheels and TSA lock. This Amazon Basics soft-sided carry-on also features a handle on the bottom between the wheels, which makes it easy to put the bag up into and pull it out of the overhead bin. On some airplanes, it may even be small enough to fit under the seat.

The interior of the bag features one large compartment with two compression straps, plus two zippered pockets on the opposite site. The 20.4-inch option is ideal for shorter trips, but this style is available in larger sizes as well. Another bonus: It's available on Amazon Prime, so it ships quickly.

This Amazon Basics option is on the smaller side for a carry-on, but that's what makes it a solid choice for business travelers going on short trips who only need to pack a few things. The laptop pocket is easily accessible, and the handle on the bottom of the bag is super useful for hauling it out of an overhead bin. The black color is professional, and the price can't be beat. – Erin Evans

Carl Friedrik The Carry-on Pro in black against chair.

Price: $565 or less

Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 9.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 43 liters | Color options: Gray/cognac, gray/chocolate, gray/black or black Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Lifetime with a 100-day trial

Constructed with premium materials, this luxury carry-on has Italian leather accents, Japanese spinner wheels and a polycarbonate exterior with an aluminum metal frame for stability. It closes via two secure latches with combination locks (rather than a zipper). There's a front laptop compartment with a smaller pocket and pen slots to keep business essentials or travel documents easy to access.

The interior has leather details, compression straps and a removable compression pad with a pocket – ideal for small items like ties, fashion jewelry or silk scarves. Travelers can also purchase an additional compression pad to have a pad on each side of the interior compartment.

This suitcase exudes luxury with its Italian leather trim and understated elegance. The design of it looks very sleek, the interior is spacious, the handle is very sturdy and the wheels glide with ease. I especially liked that the top of the suitcase is very flat, which gave my trolley bag a secure base so it wasn't moving around while I was at the airport, and the front compartment was ideal for accessing my laptop on the go. It feels very sturdy, but the only downside is it weighs more than a typical carry-on. – Rachael Hood

Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder – 22"

The North Face Rolling Thunder – 22" in black on rooftop.

Price: $270 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 40 liters | Color options: Black Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The North Face's 22-inch Rolling Thunder duffel doesn't have the bells and whistles of other carry-on options, but it's a sturdy and reliable option for those who want a duffel style on wheels. The duffel has a hard-sided back panel, two wheels that can withstand various terrain and plastic bumpers for abrasion resistance. The soft-sided top of the bag is made of water-resistant Base Camp material and nylon for extra durability. There are two zippered pockets on the outside to stash small items and a mesh pocket inside for some added organization.

I brought this duffel on a trip to New Zealand, and it held up very well. The Rolling Thunder had no issues after being checked on six different flights, and the flexibility of the style allowed me to easily store it out of the way in my campervan once I had unpacked. It's definitely a simpler style, but it does its job well. Be aware, though, that this wheeled style doesn't have straps that would allow you to carry it like a duffel; it can only be rolled. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $200 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 10 inches | Weight: 3.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-10 days; 35 liters | Color options: Multiple options but color availability changes frequently Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

When it comes to hands-free and adventure travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L can't be beat. This lightweight carry-on backpack comes with a sternum strap, a removable waist belt and a weight-distributing harness system, all to make for a comfortable carry (since sore shoulders can be a concern when it comes to carrying backpacks through time-consuming airport experiences).

Organization is a breeze with a top zippered pocket – perfect for storing travel documents or a Cotopaxi hip pack – and a padded laptop sleeve on the outside. Internally, you'll find two mesh compartments, one large and one subdivided, that work great with Cotopaxi packing cubes . The backpack's straps can be tucked away for more streamlined travel, and the bag even comes with a rain cover (though the Allpa is already TPU-coated to be water-resistant).

Furthermore, Cotopaxi is dedicated to sustainability : 94% of Cotopaxi products contain repurposed, recycled or responsible materials. The vibrant, one-of-a-kind Del Dia Allpa backpacks , for example, use remnant fabric.

I've taken my Cotopaxi Allpa on countless adventures and it's survived everything – wind, rain, being shoved into tiny rental cars, you name it. Besides being incredibly durable, I love how much this backpack can fit; my longest trip so far with only the Allpa 35L as my luggage has been a comfortable nine days, and that included packing bulky cold-weather gear. I just wish it had a water bottle pocket like the Allpa 42L does! – Leilani Osmundson

Also Recommended

Solgaard Carry-on Closet – Large: This bag packs a built-in organizer component along with a durable exterior. The Solgaard Carry-on Closet is worth considering if you like to avoid packing and unpacking.

Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner: While the Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner is a solid (and sustainable) carry-on bag for less than $200, it doesn't offer quite enough space – especially for someone who may be traveling for longer.

Away The Aluminum Carry-On Bag: This is a well-built carry-on bag. The only downfall is that it's on the heavier side, weighing nearly 11 pounds. Away's Aluminum Carry-On is also more than twice the cost of the standard carry-on by Away, which works just as well.

Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner: This is a great soft-sided option if you're looking for a lightweight suitcase. Featuring a sleek nylon construction, a large front exterior pocket and internal zippered pockets, the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner works well but isn't as lightweight as the July Carry-on Light.

Monos Carry-on Plus: It's a high-quality suitcase with a lot of internal details, but given its larger size this bag doesn't fit in the overhead compartment on multiple planes (especially regional jets). That said, if you're traveling domestically on larger planes, the Monos Carry-on Plus could be an option to consider. Or, the smaller standard Monos Carry-on could be a good option as well.

Pros and Cons of Hard-sided Luggage

Pros and cons of soft-sided luggage, frequently asked questions.

Aside from traditional rolling suitcases, the following items can be used as carry-on luggage provided they meet carry-on size limitations (which vary by airline) and fit in the overhead bin or fully under the seat (not sticking out) in front of you.

Duffel and weekender bags: This includes weekenders and duffel bags with wheels . Just note that wheels are included in carry-on dimension restrictions.
Garment bags: These are also considered carry-on baggage by most airlines. You can place your garment bag in the overhead bin, or in some cases, a small closet on the plane.
Pet carriers: Some airlines consider pet carriers to be carry-on luggage. Check with your chosen airline when preparing for your trip with Fido.
Backpacks: If your carry-on backpack fits under the seat, it will count toward your personal item allowance on most major airlines. This means you'll have the option to bring an additional bag for the overhead bin.
Diaper bags: If you're traveling with a baby, diaper bags and other baby travel gear generally don't count toward either allowance – meaning you can bring these items in addition to your carry-on bag and personal item.

Purses , briefcases and camera bags can be carried on the plane as well, but usually aren't considered carry-on bags and are instead labeled personal items. Underseater bags – often designed specifically to fit comfortably under a plane seat – are also ideal as a personal item.

Typically, travelers can bring one carry-on bag (for the overhead bin) and one personal item (for under the seat) on the plane, free of charge.

Carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline. Several major U.S. carriers, such as American Airlines and United, impose a 22 x 14 x 9-inch rule. If you're buying new carry-on luggage, this is a good default size to choose – especially if you fly with a variety of airlines.

For international airlines, it's often 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches. To be sure about dimensions as well as any weight restrictions, see our guide to Carry-on Luggage Size & Weight by Airline . It usually doesn't matter how heavy your carry-on bag is, though some airlines do monitor the weight.

Hard-sided: The hard-sided July Carry On Light weighs less than 4 pounds, making it one of the most lightweight carry-on bags on the market. Other lightweight carry-on bags we recommend include the hard-sided Away The Carry-On (7.5 pounds) and the Amazon 20-Inch Hardside Spinner (7.3 pounds).
Soft-sided: If you're looking for a lightweight, soft-sided carry-on bag, consider the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner (4.8 pounds) and the Samsonite SoLyte DLX Carry-On Spinner (7.1 pounds).

Hard-sided luggage is often heavier than soft-sided luggage – but only by a few pounds. If you're planning to purchase a hard-sided carry-on bag, look for something that's made of polycarbonate or polypropylene, both of which are lightweight yet durable materials.

How We Tested

Our team tested 26 carry-on bags across several price points and on a variety of trips spanning overseas flights, weekend getaways, overnight trips and more. We traveled by car, plane, train and cruise and packed for a variety of climates and activities, from shore excursions in Mexico to rainy road trips around Iceland. For bags with wheels, we tested their maneuverability on multiple surfaces, including gravel, pavement, grass, moving walkways, cobblestone and carpet. After four months of testing, we deem these carry-on bags the best of the best for 2024.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

The following editors personally tested the luggage recommended in this article:

Erin Evans , Managing Editor: Evans loves a durable bag and also can't say no to a good deal. Considering how banged up luggage can get, her picks on this list are both well-made and affordable.

Rachael Hood , Senior Editor: Hood rarely checks a bag, yet she loves to pack a lot and pick up some new finds along her journey. She looks for a combination of durability, functionality, interior space and overall appearance.

Catriona Kendall , Associate Editor: Kendall opts for convenient and versatile carry-ons that can work well for weekend and weekslong trips alike.

Amanda Norcross , Content & SEO Strategist: Norcross has mastered the art of traveling with a carry-on bag only, but believes this is only possible with the right luggage.

Leilani Osmundson , Digital Producer: Osmundson prefers lightweight, streamlined luggage that's ideal for adventure travel.

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Best Luggage for Long-Term Travel: Backpacks vs Rolling Luggage

Last Updated: April 11, 2024

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I’m a roll-aboard girl only, and here’s why I made the change, and the criteria for when you should choose backpacks, rolling luggage, or a hybrid of both as the best luggage for long-term travel.

When a Backpack is the Best Luggage for Long-Term Travel

I started traveling full-time with a backpack, before getting a different backpack, before deciding I hate backpacks. (Read here to find out why I hate backpacks ).

Despite my seething dislike for backpacks, they are suitable for long-term travel:

If you like to go hiking/camping on backcountry trips
If you walk a lot with your bag (instead of just going from the airport to accommodation and leaving it there)
If you travel in places with really rough terrain where wheeled luggage is useless, you’ll need a hiking backpack.
You travel with carry-on luggage only, so at least the backpack won’t be ridiculously heavy.
If you’re young and eager and haven’t discovered back pain yet

2023 Update: The Best Backpack for Travel

While I’m not much of a fan of backpacks for travel, I’ll also admit I had all the wrong kinds of backpacks. I used backpacks meant for backcountry camping trips, not for travel. Also, when traveling with larger (and thus, heavier) checked-sized luggage, hauling it around on my back was downright painful at times.

Between my experience of the lack of travel utility in backcountry packs and the weight of large backpacks, it’s no wonder I don’t like them! Ha ha!

Tortuga Backpacks saw this article and took it upon themselves to change my mind about travel backpacks. So they sent me their carry-on sized Travel Backpack 40L . I recently took it on a week-long international trip, and as far as travel backpacks go, and it’s great. (My back doesn’t think so, but that’s not the fault of the bag).

But that’s just me. After looking at their website (and hearing glowing testimonials from all my backpack-wearing travel friends and colleagues), here’s why I decided Tortuga would be worth re-evaluating my backpack hate-on:

You get the space and organization (and accessibility) of a suitcase, with the comfort of a super-technically designed strap and harness system so that it will fit you perfectly and not overly strain your back.
It fits carry-on size requirements for most airlines and fits into the overhead bin.
The main compartment opens up fully (just like a suitcase) so you can see everything in the pack with minimal rummaging.
It has water bottle pockets, hip pockets, and other external pocket features to give you easy access to things you want to have handy along the way.
The front organizer pocket has space for all kinds of nik-naks, including a padded sleeve for e-readers.
Your laptop and tablet are kept at the back of the pack (which is more secure – nobody is getting in there without you knowing) in special padded sleeves.
The material is waterproof, and the zippers are water-resistant and lockable.
It’s made from recycled polyester, saving 25 water bottles from landfills PLUS more than 1.25lbs of CO2.
You can try it on at home for free, and if it doesn’t work for you, they’ll take it back (and pay for shipping).

Tortuga offers their (newly designed) Travel Backpacks in 30L and 40L sizes. Here’s how they compare . When I first landed on their site, I got a bit overwhelmed at the various packs and sizes they have available. If that’s you, check out their bag finder quiz to figure out which pack is best for you (be it a carry on travel backpack, laptop bag, or daypack).

I’m not sure Tortuga Backpacks has the power to convert me from a roll-aboard girl back to a backpack girl when it comes to my long-term travel trips, but for short excursions and outdoorsy adventures, it’s a sturdy, thoughtfully designed, well-made backpack. And I will say the waterproof exterior saved my skin (or rather, my stuff!) when I got caught in an unexpected downpour.

When a Wheeled Backpack is the Best Luggage for Long-Term Travel

When I discovered wheeled backpacks, I was in heaven. As a “recovering backpacker” I still had an umbilical need for straps, but also a burning desire for wheels. In the ensuing years, I wheeled my way through two-wheeled backpacks; the High Sierra Overpass (which has been discontinued) and the Osprey Sojourn 60L (which was recently redesigned). I also suggest checking out the Osprey Fairview/Farpoint family of Wheeled Travel Packs . I LOVED my wheeled backpacks.

Curiously, however, I rarely – if ever – used the zip-away backpack straps . Why? Because just to do a flight of stairs, it was hardly worth the hassle of pulling out the straps and putting the pack on my back. More often than not the wheels worked just fine, and when they didn’t I simply carried the pack by the top and side handles until I could set it down and wheel it again. Carrying it wasn’t entirely ideal, however, since my pack weighed a good 20kgs.

I still like wheeled backpacks, and if I hadn’t made some recent changes to my travel entourage (read on), I’d still own one.

Wheeled backpacks work best for long-term travel when:

You travel with checked luggage (as opposed to carry-on only)
You mainly like to wheel your luggage around (ever-so-handy in airport lineups)
You occasionally end up in places where wheeling your luggage isn’t practical and you want to strap it on your back
You want easy access to the contents of your luggage

When Rolling Luggage (My Current Choice) is the Best Luggage for Long-Term Travel

Nora Dunn, The Professional Hobo, with rolling luggage in front of a train

At one point I stashed my wheeled backpack somewhere and did a few trips lasting as long as three months with my rolling-carry-on travel bag only.

Eventually I realized if I could survive for months on end (even in varying climates) with carry-on luggage only, I didn’t need the larger bag at all. Thus, I converted my full-time travel entourage to carry-on sized luggage only. It’s occasionally a wee bit stressful since there’s no room for additions, but the ease of traveling with carry-on luggage is not to be underestimated.

And more importantly, my carry-on luggage is pure and simple rolling luggage. Why don’t I need backpack straps any more? Because if and when I can’t wheel the luggage, I can simply carry it by the handle. Since it’s carry-on sized, it’s not bulky and doesn’t weigh much more than 10kgs, thus it’s easy to carry by hand. I could get a carry-on wheeled backpack, but the zip-away backpack straps use up valuable carry-on luggage space, and fitting a full-time travel wardrobe into carry-on-sized luggage is enough of an ask as it is.

My wheeled carry-on luggage of choice is the Pacsafe Toursafe 21 (since replaced by the EXP21 Anti-Theft Wheeled Carry-On) wheeled luggage which is lightweight, sturdy, has nifty security features, and some handy organizational features on the inside.

2023 NOTE: Tragically, supply chain issues forced Pacsafe to discontinue their lineup of anti-theft rolling luggage. I have left this blurb above intact in the hopes that they’ll bring it back to life, or I find some comparable anti-theft luggage to love and feature in its place; whatever happens first. Stay tuned!

In the meantime, I’ve been testing out the Osprey Daylite Carryon Wheeled Duffel 40L . While I just noted that backpack straps are unnecessary for carry-on luggage, these particular straps don’t eat up packing space in the same way, and you can detach them entirely if they’re not your speed. The bag’s overall features are very travel-friendly.

Rolling luggage isn’t always the perfect fit for long-term travel, but here is when it makes sense:

You travel with carry-on luggage only (and can easily carry it when it can’t be rolled)
Your travel days are concentrated and linear (ie: you travel directly from one place of accommodation to the next, without too many detours)
You “rough it” less
You fly a lot
You have back problems and don’t like to (or want to) haul a backpack on and off
You want easy access and organization of your luggage contents

Before making a new luggage purchase, ask yourself, does the luggage have:

A telescoping handle
Lockable zippers
Zip pockets
Is it top loading (and is that something you want)
Does it fit in an overhead bin
Does it have premium spinner wheels (and if it does, do they come at the expense of packing space)

Having an Extra Daypack

My carry-on luggage system wouldn’t work without my daypack, which houses my computer and other essentials that never leave my side. Most carry-on flight regulations allow for one piece of carry-on luggage (ie: my Pacsafe), plus an extra “purse/briefcase” type of bag, also known as a personal item. My daypack is that additional bag. (Although I carry a small purse as well, if I were challenged on it I could put the purse in my daypack).

This daypack is practical for outings to cafes with my computer, carrying shopping and groceries, and even for multi day treks such as the 5-day one I did in Peru . (Although realistically, if you want to do a day-trek through the mountains of Peru, leave the wheeled luggage behind, and bring along this bag instead)!

Here’s what I look for in a daypack:

Side pockets for a water bottle
Padded shoulder straps for comfort
Separate compartment(s) for ease of organizing things

As an unintentional Pacsafe poster girl, my daypack for years was a 25L Pacsafe Venturesafe Daypack. I (literally) loved it to pieces. Pacsafe now offers a ton of different-sized and styled backpacks that you can check out here ; personally I find 25L to be a good size and best backpack for travel.

Lately for my personal I’ve been trying out the Peak Design Everyday Totepack – which gets me compliments everywhere I go. It has some amazing pros (and a few cons); check out my video review here to see if it’ll work for you.

2023 update: I’m currently testing out (and have the highest of hopes for) the Knack Bags S2 Medium sized Expandable Backpack . With the ability to expand from 24-35L, and with a ton of organizational and security features, I suspect this will be my new fav daypack for travel.

Want to know what I pack into my daypack? Check out this video where I unpack it for you and show you all my carry-on essentials!

If you want an ultra-light packable day pack , I suggest:

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack – This multi-award-winning 20L packable day pack stuffs into its own pouch that is smaller than a tennis ball. It’s great for day-hikes, grocery shopping, and simply having an extra daypack on hand without taking up any space or weight. Here’s a video demonstration I did of the pack .

2023 Update ….The Sea to Summit daypack is lightest packable backpack that packs down the smallest. But it comes up short with a lack of water bottle pockets on the sides, and no internal organization. To solve these problems, the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack comes to the rescue.

Getting confused? Join the club. Check out my comparison of the Top Packable Backpacks for Travel so you can figure out which one will be best for you.

2023 Update…

Now that I have a home base , I can pack in a strategic way for every trip I take. Even if I’m traveling for months at a time, the nature of the trip will entirely dictate what kind of luggage I use.

For example, if I know I’m going from A to B and then staying at my destination for an extended time, I might go with checked luggage so I can carry some discretionary items that will make my stay more comfortable. Or if I’m going on a long trip that will involve multiple climates and/or technical activities: again I’m likely to choose checked luggage.

But at the moment that I’m writing this update, I’m on a five-month trip and I took rolling carry-on luggage (specifically the Level8 Grace EXT expandable hardshell spinner luggage – as my first foray into hardshell spinner luggage).

Interested in some of the decisions that go into choosing checked luggage versus carry-on luggage? Let this article be your guide .

94 thoughts on “Best Luggage for Long-Term Travel: Backpacks vs Rolling Luggage”

A beat-up rolling suitcase plus a large upscale handbag

Anna – Nice! Does the trick….

I’m still figuring this out. I have been using a rolling REI carry-on that I love, plus an old Osprey daypack. I came back to the city where I’ve left my stuff while I work further with the idea of traveling full-time. I’ve been thinking of using my 50L Osprey backpack and cinching it down to be a daypack. It just distributes the weight better and has a hip belt. Not 100% sure.

What is your new packlist? I still can’t seem to get that magic self-sufficient lightness I want. My back is mostly fused, so it’s an extra challenge for me.

Hi Lynne Marie, Might be good to use the 50L Osprey as a daypack, but you need to make sure that when cinched down it still looks small enough to play the part of a “purse/laptop bag” for carry-on purposes. And it’s a double-edged sword having a bigger bag like that; if you’re anything like me, you’ll fill it up with stuff (!) – then again sometimes it’s nice to have that option (and you can always check the Osprey bag on flights if you need to).

More or less, here’s my carry-on packing list: http://www.wisebread.com/make-flying-easy-the-ultimate-carry-on-packing-list

I thought I owned the world when I had a roller with backpack straps AND a zip-on daypack. It was non carry-on size, therefore too heavy to used the backpack straps. I’m going to give up the straps for a spinner, as many rollers cause problems when rolled on a train–sometimes I have to go through many cars to find a seat, and being able to push my bag sideways is a big advantage. I really hate to give up my zip-on daypack, but it looks like the spinners will not accommodate one. If someone knows about one, I would love to know about it.

Hi Minnie, I don’t know of any spinners with detachable daypacks – I suspect it would upset the balance of the wheels. I’ve never used a spinner, but I know people who swear by them. Regarding the daypack, at least you can put that on your back with relative ease and comfort; for myself, I tend to keep important things like my laptop in my daypack, so I prefer to have it on my body rather than on my luggage.

Does the Pacsafe Tour Safe 21 fit under the seat?

Hi Rob, No, it’s too big to go under the seat. It is soft-sided so you can under-pack and cinch it down, but I think it will be too big regardless. No problem in standard overhead bins though.

Wow, you look dashing and so very stylish. You really must have the packing down to a T!

I did pretty much the same you did. I think I only used the backpack for one trip and then it was always with a backpack on wheels (though a bit heavy). Now I travel carry on only. The problem though is that my carry-on always weighs a little more than 10 kg. I often leave from Vancouver and lately they always make me weigh it – and of course, then I have to check it in. I will check out the weight of your carry on – buying a new one might does the trick since mine is already a bit heavy to begin with 🙂

Hi Fida, Yes, the Pacsafe is quite light to begin with….which helps! I think sometimes my bag is above 10kg, but I haven’t been made to weigh it and check it yet….and it’s not the end of the world if it has to be checked. Happy travels!

This post came just on time. I’ve been browsing for a bag to buy. And just recently discovered Pacsafe luggage. Love there Venture Safe day pack, as well as their Tour Safe wheeled travel bag. Thanks for tips!

Glad this was good timing, Frank! I can honestly say I really like the Pacsafe gear (and no, they don’t even know who I am, much less give me freebies or pay me to say that)! 😉

I am still a fan of backpacks. They are just too easy. Rolling bags can be to space consuming and bother people walking behind you, but that is just my opinion. Your suggestion for a day pack is a great one though. Backpack or wheeled luggage everyone is in need of a day pack.

Andy, For every downside of one option, you can find a downside for the other. For example, although I totally agree that wheeled bags can be frustrating for other people walking around you, I’ve been bashed and knocked by more than a few backpackers with massive packs on their backs who aren’t aware of how much room they’re taking up. I think it ultimately boils down to personal preferences, and being considerate of those around us. Words to live by, huh? 😉

I´m totally a rolling type of person too! I love my wheeled luggage and I can´t imagine a trip without it. And I have a small side backpack as well. For notebook and other handy things. By the way..could you please tell me what kind of navigation do you use during your trips? I´d love to purchase sygic app (this one: http://www.sygic.com/en/gps-navigation ), do you know it? I´m not totally sure yet. Thank you!!

Hi Paul, Nice to know a fellow “roller”! As for navigation, I don’t have a steadfast system. It depends on where I’m going and what I’m doing – I tend to wing it most of the time. But that app looks awesome! (It does cost a wee bit though).

Just LOVE the OR Peak Bagger. We have his and hers versions (hers=older with an outer sleeve for hydration bladder, his=newer with padded straps (a great upgrade) and a zipper pocket rather than the sleeve. Both have their benefits. We have took a 5-day trip tropical trip easily packing everything we needed in them. We could wear much of what we needed on the flight. Fit easily under the plane seat with room left over for feet (and my partner is 6’3″). No fiddling with overhead bins, quick TSA check, no sore back from lifting luggage around, no luggage fees, easy to pack up and go in a second. I recommend having a soft layer like sweater or fleece to put against your back, otherwise hard-edged items inside can be uncomfortable to wear for longer jaunts. Yep, gonna do more travel with only the Peak Bagger!

And you’re so right about the versatility. It’s a compression sack and weighs almost nothing, so was easy to strap on and ride a beach cruiser to get all the groceries and fresh tropical fruit the two of us needed for the entire trip. Not to mention it’s waterproof and perfect for that day splashing up a creek and through a waterfall, then having a dry towel and wallet handy afterward.

Agree completely for longer forms of travel. When doing remote backpacking, only a backpack will do, though we’ve been going lighter and smaller as the years go by. If that’s not a part of the trip, a roller really is “where it’s at.” Just so convenient, and easy enough to carry up steps, and much friendlier than a backpack to lift from ground to car trunk/boot. A happy back is a wonderful thing when we’re not 25 anymore!

Hi Wynne, I think you pinned the whole undertone of this post….we’re not 25 any more! Ha ha! It’s great to hear your testimonial for the OR Peak Bagger – it’s a pretty slick bit of kit.

I’ve had the same trusty backpack (non-wheeled version) for the last 7 years of travel and there’s a few reasons I’m not yet ready to change it. I tried and tested literally dozens of backpacks before I set off on my trip, from horrendously expensive to cheap as chips. I finally settled on one of the cheapest ones, simply because it was the most comfortable one fully loaded that I could find. It’s a Berghaus, cost me 46 pounds sterling 7 years ago and apart from one small puncture which never got any bigger, is still in great condition, even zippers have never been replaced. The only amendment is the zip pulls which I replaced myself with a small cord when they finally frayed after about 6 years! The zips are still in perfect condition.

In the first week, it drove me insane. I had to unpack anything to find something so I quickly learned that I had to be consistent in how I packed it. Things have a place and I always put them in that same place. That way I can stick my hand into it in the dark and pull out anything I want. 3 external pockets I use for things I want easy access to and by undoing the divider between the bottom pocket and main section I can access almost anything instantaneously from either the top or the bottom. I pack clothes in see-through plastic zipper bags, each one with a different shape or texture (again helps with rummaging in the dark) – one for undies, one for tops and one for bottoms and dresses. The pack is 45 litres and currently I carry about 13-15 kg in it. There is plenty of room to add extra things if I go somewhere cold and need extra clothes or do some shopping. When it’s not full the straps compress it so it’s good for short and long trips. At 13kg I can easily carry it on my back for some distance. I have trekked up the Himalayas with it for up to 5 days at a time and best of all, unlike a wheeled suitcase, I can throw it on the front of a moped, or strap it on my back and go on road adventures by motorbike, currently my preferred way to travel. It’s versatile, hard-wearing, cost effective and has served me well in almost every situation. When I want to check it in, I use an external thin zipped bag that wraps around the whole backpack so there are no outsized luggage issues or chewed up straps. This lightweight cover bag gives me an extra space to pack unneeded stuff into and store in the event I want to go off hiking for a few days or make shorter forays to islands etc. For me this combination has been great, but it relies on me creating a packing system and sticking to it, for the sake of my mental sanity. I also tend not to fly a lot, preferring overland routes so this is a consideration. When I stop somewhere for a longer time, to volunteer usually, I can unpack my things and fold it away or hang it up as there is no internal metal frame.

Hi Stephanie, Thanks for your input and great testimony for backpacks! Seems like you’ve found the perfect luggage for travel that suits you to a “T”. And great point about packing consistently. I’m a big fan of that myself; added benefit: you lose way less stuff.

Thank you so much for this post. The hubby and I are going travelling in September and are havign an ongoing debate about backpacks vs rolled luggage. I am at an age where I have discovered back pain, and yet the husband is too busy trying to discover himself rather than worrying about the practicalities of it all. Hopefully this post should sway him!

Greer – Ha ha! Let me know what your final decision is! 🙂

After having my checked luggage not catch up with me 3 separate times on a 3-week trip to India and Bali in 2010, I switched to carry on only forevermore! The next year I travelled to Panama and 4 different cities in South America with a friend and we each had 2 carry on bags – no more hassles, and no lost luggage! Though I am currently living and working in Taiwan for at least a year and yes, I bought a large, light, wheeled suitcase to hold my 50 pounds of things I need to actually live abroad, but I also have my wheeled backpack with me and use that for all shorter trips.

Hi Karen, Welcome to the carry-on-club! Like your Taiwanese adventures, I too am looking at spending some extended time in the future (in Peru), and I want to schlep some extra things there to make my time more comfortable. I’m dreading having to check a bag again! Ha ha! But I’ll be sure to have my carry-on wheeled bag as well for all my shorter trips (“short” being as long as a few months)….

I think it really depends on the person and trip, such as where you are going and what all you are bringing with you. Both options offer great benefits, but both should be looked into to figure out which one best fits you and your needs. Thanks for sharing your advice!

Hi Caryl, You got it! When travelling your luggage is an extension of yourself – so you’d better like everything about it, and it’s a very personal choice, like you say, dependent on your needs.

I bought a beautiful US brand backpack/wheels Eagle creek. The first time I decided to use it as a backpack for stairs I realised my back wouldn’t do it! Lol! It is good at wheeling though. Recent trip to Europe I ditched it last minute for an old Skyways suitcase and cabin bag – they balance each other with strap. With daypack – Katmandu brand with padded computer slot and Hedgren tiny shoulder bag for money/passport etc was all good. Travelled metros ok in Rome and Copenhagen with luggage. Rather a lot I know! Used small Hedgren daily with a soft Onya parachute bag for water scarf and ocassionally folding umbrella for rain (Europe) and sun (Dubai was 43C). Blended in better and less of a target without a daypack! An Aussie using brands from world and Aus!

Hi Cathy, Good strategy! I’m glad it worked well for you. Thanks for sharing!

Ok, I booked a no frills flight to New York from Myrtle Beach, S.C., and as you may know, if you take a carry on bag you are charged for it each way on top of your ticket price. But you are allowed a personal item, like a purse or laptop bag. I wondered, how much do I really need to take with me for a week’s visit at my daughter’s apartment in Brooklyn? So I emptied my laptop bag, and began to fill it with essential items only. First, my handheld tablet computer and folding keyboard, and chager cords, after all, it’s supposed to be a laptop bag, not a suitcase. I avoided toiletries that I could buy in NYC, but needed at least one shirt, my jammies, and socks and underwear. I had a fanny pack, empty, my wallet, a mesh bag of medications, a small paper notebook, pen, and a foil bag of tea, after discarding another shirt, a pair of shorts, second T-shirt, a small hair brush for my beard, and paring down the socks and underwear to one extra of each. With those items pulled out of the bag, it looked less pregnant, and was very light. Now, this was a short trip but was well within the size and weight limitations of the airlines and saved me the hefty carry on bag fees each way. Toiletries and extra clothing were easy to buy, and what I brought doesn’t really have to go back with me. I’ll leave some things here for my next flight out here in September. The laptop bag was light, carried by the strap over my shoulder, and fit easily by my feet under the seat on the plane in front of me. I really believe I could do the same thing for a city hop at a hotel anywhere this airline flies. Anyway, it was fun to see if I could do it!

David – Fun challenge! Reminds me of the “no baggage challenge” that I did a few years ago, taking a few trips with absolutely no bags, but instead using the pockets of Scottevest clothing. It was possible, but not entirely successful: https://www.theprofessionalhobo.com/no-baggage-challenge-wrap-up-lessons-learned/

For what I was doing, a short hop to visit my daughter, it was completely successful. I bought what I felt I couldn’t bring, and left two clothing items behind at my daughter’s apartment in favor of two items I bought. The challenge is to find space for extra items on the return leg. I found space for two hardcover biographies within my size and weight limitations, and took advantage of some pockets, too. It was totally inspired by your no bag travel challenges on a meager basis. The benefits for me were avoiding the bagage carosel completely, light weight baggage, easy to carry andv stow under the seat in front of me on the plane, easy to take on my lap or at my feet in s taxi, and I saved baggage fees both ways. Btw, I saw a Nora Dunn lookalike on the plane today from LaGuardia to Detroit! Flower patterned summer dress, red hair, and straw hat with a black hat band!

David – Glad the challenge worked out for you. In general, I’d shell out for the carry on bag just to have some extra room, but for the challenge’s sake, it’s great fun! I just returned from a week-long trip to Florida with one very small bag (but a bit larger than a laptop bag, but it included my laptop), and it was a total success. I love light travel! I have many doppelgangers; apparently you saw one in LaGuardia….it wasn’t me! 🙂

What a pity it wasn’t you, Nora! She looked so much like you, too, sporting a great looking hat and only two travel bags. One was a roller, the other a smaller bag she tied on top. Right after she finished tying the bag on and let go it fell forward and hit a woman’s leg standing in front of her! “You” had pretty red face! Spirit airlines fkying out out of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, to New York for a RT plus taxes in September is coisting me only $107.99. This is hardly international travel (they do serve the Carribean, too) but for short hops, you can’t beat some of prices on a discount airline. 🙂

I think the issue here is how you travel, and less about your back situation and personal preference for how you look.

I have traveled to more than 40 countries on 4 continents over the span of 15 years, many multiple times, and I have used the same pack, actually the same one. It’s a Boblbee hard shell pack, holding very little, but with some compression bags I managed to travel for months at a time. The longest stretch was 8 months with just the contents of that pack. No wheels, just a backpack.

The way I traveled, I found the backpack to be invaluable. The way I travel, I keep moving and have to be quick on my feet to catch a bus, train, or run to another terminal at the airport. My style of travel was more spontaneous and unplanned, so a suitcase with wheels or a backpack with wheels would significantly slow me down.

For those who book a vacation in the Bahamas, of course a wheeled suitcase is the best option. For the others who are part of a group, traveling together and everything is planned out, there’s no problem. I do not, however, think that anyone who wants to move quickly will benefit from anything with wheels.

I have seen many, many, foolish souls running through airports, down busy streets and tripping over themselves to catch a bus, train, a plane with a wheeled suitcase. I have seen people with wheeled suitcases on their back (wheeled backpack) that are struggling to stay upright and knocking people down because it’s overloaded and huge.

My opinion, considering the benefits and drawbacks of each is quite clear. Choose, based on your trip, either a backpack (no wheels) or a rolling suitcase. A backpack with wheels, which you have already discovered, is the worst of both worlds. Actually a rolling suitcase combined with a backpack would make a great combination!

Adam – Great points. I think the other deciding factor is how much or how little you pack. If you’re on the go a lot and quick to move – as you are – then the lighter you pack the better. The heavier your load, the worse it is to use a backpack – from trying to find what you need, to hauling it on and off your back all the time. I pack very light, so can manage either a backpack or roller bag. I guess I just don’t run for that many buses and trains however, because I haven’t found the rolling luggage to be that bad. If I really need to speed up and the terrain is awkward, I just pick up the case by the handle and go. My daypack with my computer is on my back, so it’s all very balanced.

soon i’m going to go to New Zealand for about a month. Since i don’t have a drivers license i’m going to use the bus as my main way of transport. Because i have been living in Cambodia for the past ten months and i only came with a big rolling luggage i’m a bit concerned about my trip to New Zealand. Do you think it’s stupid to always drag that suitcase to the bus and should i get a backpack? Or maybe i’m just fine?

Thanks so much for your advice & also, great blog, i really enjoy reading!

Hi Lilli, I guess it depends on how big your rolling suitcase is. New Zealand has easy terrain to roll your case around; it’s not like you’ll have to lug it over gravel roads or cobblestones. So personally, I would stick to the rolling luggage (and save yourself the cost of buying a backpack that you might not need or like). If it becomes a problem, you can get different luggage in New Zealand. Happy travels! I LOVE New Zealand!

Thank you! This is awesome advice. I am going to purchase them for my Asia trip coming up in December.

Hi Angela, Awesome! Glad you got some good advice from the post – and happy travels! How long are you going for?

Going to Europe in 2 months for 3 weeks! Thanks for all the awesome advice. I got in my head that there has to be some kind of new way to go backpacking Europe other than just a big ole backpack. I plan on just bringing one piece of luggage. So far the Osprey seems to be the best fit, thoughts? Wheels and backpack straps seem to be the way to go. I think I’ll go the next size over carry-on. And a detachable daypack makes sense. Any suggestions?

Hi Greg, For a wheeled backpack with a detachable daypack, I liked using the High Sierra bag (which you can see profiled and linked to in this post: https://www.theprofessionalhobo.com/wheeled-backpacks-why-theyre-the-best-and-tips-for-buying-one/ ), and apparently Eagle Creek makes a top notch model as well. Happy nouveau-backpacking! 😉

My current travelling bags are the eBags Mother Lode TLS Weekender Convertible and for my personal item/dayback the Tom Bihn Synapse 19. I also have the eBags in a wheeled version that I use occasionally for trips into the city. I like the approach you’ve taken in your post insofar as the choice of bag depends on the destination/type of travel and the person’s preferences and needs. I think each person needs to develop some kind of checklist of the features s/he needs in a bag. Here’s my list of the features I go looking for in a travel bag: http://packinglighttravel.com/travel-tips/luggage-and-packing/features-of-a-perfect-carry-on-bag/

Nice entourage, Anne! Thanks for sharing. How long is your average trip?

Between two to four weeks, three to five times per year.

Hi all, I thought I’d chime in. I also HATE backpacks. Dislike hauling around a lot of weight in general. So here’s my my current soup du jour:

http://www.amazon.com/Osprey-Ozone-Wheeled-Luggage-18-Inch/dp/B00CJ7XCLQ (there’s a full length flat panel space against the back that holds my Birkies!) http://www.rei.com/product/845735/marmot-kompressor-plus-pack https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8yCPfC_z-0

The wheelie is 4#, the daypack and vest are ounces. I can “wear” a year’s wardrobe thru check-in in my vest. I always wear a Royal Robbins travel underneath as my “wallet”. Has money, electronics, passport, camera–zipped pockets all over. The bag weighs in at 15#.

I’m looking into an unlocked 6″ android “phablet” with sim card slots and sd card slot as only only electronics-cost $150. (There are 5.5″ ones for $90-$100-Posh brand, eg.)

I’ve got something called “surf Easy” which is a cool little USB secure, anonymous browser-which doesn’t leave a trace on public computers. I’m still learning it.

My kit is pretty tight, all ultralight, minimalist, top of the line and can handle 3 seasons.

Thanks for sharing your packing strategies, Laurence! I’m liking the Marmot pack, but I must say – you won’t catch me wearing that vest any time soon! I spectacularly failed the No Baggage Challenge by ScotteVest ( https://www.theprofessionalhobo.com/florida-with-no-baggage/ ).

Interesing to follow your evolving thinking, which a lot of us share as we age and change travel styles and destinations. However, I’m having to think about backpacks and duffels again with a few week trip to southern Africa (followed by Paris) coming up, where soft outers are requisite for carry on bags on planes heading away from cities. There are roller duffels, but at 6’2″ they are a bit of a reach (literally). That leaves travel backpacks, some of which are reasonably well designed and not too expensive. At 68, I’m still in good enough shape – and not too proud – to carry one, but I struggle with the thought and how much use it will have beyond this trip (could I carry a suit needed for a relative’s wedding or something similar in one?).

Hi Gene, My Pacsafe carry-on bag (discussed in the post) is actually soft-sided so could work for your trip – and I believe they have larger models that you can check in as well. As for carrying a suit for a wedding, that all boils down to the packing technique….as well as availability of an iron or dry cleaner on arrival!

Nora, Are you saying the EVA back is soft? The requirements for these safari operators (charter) is “NO frame.” Unfortunately, the closest walk-in store that carries the 21 is over 400 miles away (Pacsafe lists REI, which is local, but REI website doesn’t show the 21). thanks,

Gene, Hmm. No, it’s not totally soft all around; the back is solid. Those are some strict requirements – wow! Good luck in your search…

From eBags, I ordered, then packed and tried around the house, up and down stairs, their TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible, a Timbuk2 and the Lite Gear travel pack. I won’t say any of the the three really stood out as superior absolutely speaking, but the Weekender seemed on balance the most versatile and comfortable choice (no backpack with 20+ lbs is perfectly comfortable). Lots of pockets, a middle divider in the main compartment to keep things from moving around, a water bottle pocket and the lowest sale price. It’s easy to overfill, as some customers have mentioned in their reviews, but that’s where a hand carry satchel comes in handy. The Weekender’s waist strap is sort of weak – a complete lacking with the Timbuk2 – but I’m off to REI to see what I can find.

Hi Gene, Cool – thanks for the intel! Very valuable. Happy shopping!

Hi Nora! If you want a writing retreat in Michigan next Fall or Spring, come and stay with me. Email me. You saw my TLS Mother Lode Weekender in Ecuador and me and my girls like them for Asia and Latin America because they pack up great with compartments and cubes, and open like a suitcase. We often would have to walk into a smallish town after a bus leaves you by the highway or walk a ways to a hostel from the center of town bus/train. Taxis either are not around or are silly expensive to travel a mile. Wheels add weight and can get wrecked fast on even one mile of dirt road or bumpy sidewalks. I want to find a foldable super light luggage cart to add to this system though! Do you know of any?

I recently got a star wars luggage bag:

Hope to get some great reactions next holiday 😉

OK, so I’m a macpac backpack girl and have travelled all over the world with it over the last ten years. It works for me and my luggage has been a no-brained for me since I bought it in 2005. It has given me the flexibility of doing things like taking my aging grandmother around the world: my backpack on my back and pulling hers behind me. Under different circumstances this trip would be the same.

However, this trip I am pregnant. We are traveling through India to Nepal (both places I have travelled before). I will be traveling with my husband, and he can help with luggage, but also my three year old daughter- which means traveling light is out of the question. And my pregnancy means I cannot carry the weight of my backpack. We will be in major cities: Delhi, Agra, Kathmandu, but also somewhat off the beaten track as we are involved in humanitarian work and will be visiting aid projects. I am worried about conventional rolling luggage on buses and trains, rickshaws etc. anyone have any intuitive suggestions or relevant experience?

Hi Sarah, Hmm – tough conundrum! I have no trouble with rolling luggage and buses/trains/rickshaws, but because it’s carry-on sized, it’s lights and easy to just pick up and haul by hand when necessary. If you’re unable to travel light with kids in tow, that won’t be so easy. But since you can’t put anything on your back, it seems you’ll be relegated to wheeled luggage anyway – in which case I’d recommend something with a solid top AND side handle so that when you need to pick it up, you can carry it by both handles more easily. If you’re able to put something on your back once in a while (when necessary), then a wheeled backpack would be the way to go. Hope this helps!

I’ve gotten the Osprey Sojourn wheeler/backpack 5 yrs ago and travelled 30+ countries for months, esp. India/Myanmar, SE Asia and East/central Africa. With the big, sturdy wheels (I’ve once hauled another bag + stage piano on top around with it, total of 70 kgs) it has never been necessary for me to use the straps, so I leave them home now and only use the wheels. I use rickshaws, back of motorbikes (put it on my lap), trains etc. I’m involved in work off the beaten track as well and its never been a problem. I usually have 16-20+ kgs in it due to the versatile tasks and situations I need to bring gear and clothing for (even dress clothes :). Highly recommend it for the Osprey High Road Chassis, but would never do it with any of the other tiny wheels and low chassis on other suitcases that I’ve seen around.

Wow, thanks for the great articles. I’m headed to Japan for 15 days, but was still thinking like a 20 year old when it came to the “grab and gone” machismo of a backpack suitcase. But, I carefully planned my trip to Japan to rarely be caught in the cold (lots of walking with no hotel to stash at).

A plain old carry-on was making sense (do I really need survival gear on a shinkansen?), but yeah some how plain-old carry on seemed like defeat (admittedly, on a business trip to Guangzhou, my carry-on was bouncing in the air from the terrible pavement and twisting my arm around half the time). But that being said, a backpack would still have been worse because it was so hot there.

So thanks for the article. You’ve made my planning much simpler because I already have “good-enough” rolling carry-on luggage in the house.

Hey Tim, Sweet – I’m glad this post helped! Happy travels!

Have not read all the posts above, but another reason for wheeled backpack is when standing in an airline queue for a small plane and they are looking for wheeled bags to go into the hold. If you have your bag on your back then they seem to ignore you and go to someone else……this has happened a few times in the States and in Europe!!

Hi George, Excellent observation! I hadn’t thought of that. Thanks for the tip!

I’m planning a trip – basically planning on travelling for 6 – 8 months (!) – I’ll be starting in South America, before heading north and right through and across the USA. My question, really, is – what sort of luggage would you recommend? I’ve already got my Bestek Waterproof Canvas shoulder bag for my camera & its accessories, but I’m not sure whether to go for two additional bags, such as rolling luggage for the majority of my things, with a second backpack for my laptop which I’d prefer to keep with me at all times (as you do). Alternatively, whether I should opt for a larger backpack, but travel light(er). Wondered what your thoughts may be. Thanks in advance!

Hi Matthew, A few things for you to consider include: 1) How much are you flying? Because you’ll only be able to carry on one shoulder bag/daypack, in which I suspect you’ll want to carry both your camera equipment as well as your laptop. Can your camera shoulder bag fit into your second backpack with the laptop? Alternately, can your laptop fit into your Bestek bag? Once you sort out this part, the rest is simply a matter of how big a bag you need for the rest of your stuff, and whether you want wheels or backpack straps (or both)! 2) What sorts of climates will you be experiencing? The more seasons you experience, the more clothing you’ll need to pack (within reason).

Hi Nora, Thank you for getting back to me so quickly! It is possible that my Bestek bag will fit into my laptop bag, so they could combine into one as carry on. I won’t be taking many flights, and the majority of those will be getting me between areas in South America and up to the US. Once I hit the US, I’ll mostly be using the Greyhound bus service to get between places, and perhaps some smaller bus routes in between.

I’ll (hopefully) be trying to keep dry and warm, probably experiencing South America’s late summer / early Autumn, and then the USA’s summer / Autumn as well, once I move north.

Matthew, All sounds terrific! One last piece of packing advice: the weight of your bag is equally proportionate to your misery on the road. Hence – keep this in mind, and go on the minimalist side. You can always pick up a few local things along the way if you find yourself underdressed. Happy travels!

Nora, I recently aquired a Granite Gear Cross Trek 22 Wheeled Duffel. I also consider your site to be the sensible travelers’ book of Leviticus. Particularly after a revelation I experienced returning from Boston to the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport. There I saw a young man with a wheeled backpack on his back. Up to that time mine was my Genius and Exodus of a pre-9-11 traveler’s mindset regarding airport traveling. Prior to that faithful date I thought nothing of lugging, pushing or dragging a duffel bag with a daypack and lumbar pack round my waist. Of course that was back in the day when there was actual room in the airline cabins. My modern travel education started in 2012 on a visit to the Midwest and the discovery that lugging that same duffle bag, bought 10 years earlier, across the Minneapolis airport took more energy than I remember. Purchase of a folding luggage caddy rectified some strain, but, as you pointed out, these caddies present extra challenges being designed for a particular shape of luggage. Plus there’s always the necessity of folding it up for TSA inspection and stowage. Worse were the freak accidents including loss of one of the support stanchions after getting caught and broken on the landing of a Phoenix bus. Later, a bungee strap hook caught and tore my trousers as I walked South Beach Florida. Thus, I took it into my head to do the backpack thing. I got a fully packed backpack into the overhead for a trip to New Orleans, but only after removing certain items so I could secure the overhead door. Space and the lack of mobility presented more problems. I took it into my head to add my own modifications in the form of a couple of folding- ammo-drop bags secured, with a strap, around the backpack’s middle. This bag would be fine IF I were only traveling by foot or ground vehicle. However, because one leg of my journey always entails flying on a small aircraft with fighter jet sized seats and glove compartment overhead storage. It’s necessary to surrender my bag for valet transport. Oddly, regardless of how secure I tie the straps on the backpack, somehow they were always loose at my destination. After seeing the young man with the wheeled backpack, I found your site. Lo, you’ve described virtually every mishap I’ve faced traveling with a backpack and separate travel caddy. For what I paid to pimp my bag, I definitely wasn’t getting the return I had hoped for and found something wrong with this picture. I can afford better luggage and I certainly don’t enjoy the aggravation. The realities you identified are that for the most part I’m going to wheel my bag across the airport to a bus, taxi or rental car to my hotel or friend‘s home. With TSA inspection and stowage it’s must that everything stows as flat and streamlined as possible. It’s also nice to have the option of going backpack if I desire or necessity demands. Thus, following your advice I researched several bags finally settled on the Granite Gear duffle. It has certain features necessary for me. I’ll use it on my next trip and hope to have a different report than my previous travel chronicles. Again, thanks for your fine input and opinion. Chris Hunnewell

Hey Chris, Ah…the journey of finding (often through trial and error) the perfect luggage! I’m glad you’re kitted out with a new duffel that will hopefully ensure a smoother trip this time around! Happy travels!

Hi Nora! How does your Pacsafe handle “off-road” terrain? Would you be able to pull it down a gravelly road? I ran into this scenario in Africa a few times and my Eddie Bower duffle handled the abuse just fine. It ended up blowing a seam after only a few uses, so looking into something else. Also, does your Pacsafe stand on its own without toppling over? Thanks, Natalie

Hi Natalie, Great questions! The Pacsafe that I use is carry-on sized, so when I encounter terrain that is too difficult to roll with, it’s easy enough to just carry by hand. However I do find that it’s a very sturdy pack that can handle rough terrain pretty gracefully – so if you have a larger sized Pacsafe bag that’s too awkward to carry by hand, I would say yes: it can take it. As for not toppling over, yes, it does stand on its own, but that also boils down to how you pack it. For example, put the heavy stuff at the bottom (near the wheels).

For me packing is always a problem but after this article I will follow your tips and I believe my problem is solved.

Thanks for sharing!

I’m glad this helped! Happy travels…

I will be studying abroad in Melbourne and want to travel around to Cairns and New Zealand after my semester is over for about a month. I have a medium size day pack as well as luggage with backpack straps but was wondering if I should bring this luggage with me everywhere I go or if you know of some storage possibility. I was curious as to where to keep my larger luggage during excursions or if it is possible to keep it with me. Thanks for your article!

Hey Bruce, It all depends on your situation in Melbourne; if you have a place that you’re coming back to where leave your large luggage and simply do excursions with a smaller bag, I’d recommend it. If you don’t have a place to come back to, some hostels or hotels will allow you to store luggage with them. You may also meet some friends along the way who would be willing to keep a few things for you. Enjoy New Zealand – a fav place of mine. 🙂

Hi Nora. We went through similar dilemmas in deciding what to take on our 57 day round the world trip. We are not doing it in luxury, but are not three-bucks-a-night-beach-hut backpackers either. It remains to be seen as to whether we got the right solution, but I made this short video about our options and our ultimate choice: http://wp.me/p7ezGr-Lp . Hope you think it’s in the right ballpark. Happy travelling!

Hey Nigel & Jane – Lookin’ good! I just got myself a larger rolling suitcase that I’m pretty pleased with. It’s big (ie: not carry-on size), but it fits everything I want to carry with me and more. Stay tuned for an updated packing list post where I illustrate everything I now carry with me full-time!

DEFINITELY want to hear about that packing list. I know for the future there will be trips I’ll have to carry an extra bag so I look forward to your enlightenment. Chris

Hey Nora, Here’s a status report regarding my new choice of carry-on bag, the Granite Gear Cross Trek 22 wheeled duffle to replace my old duffle bag and/ or Santo backpack. In July 2016, I flew to Europe for a 17 day excursion. Unfortunately, some old, bad habits are hard to break. The Cross Trek held everything I needed and then some, so I thought what harm to take my long time, venerable, trusted old companion of many miles: my Santo backpack. From the time I stepped into the TSA security line it was a mistake. For one, TSA gets anxious now if bags are packed too tight. Talk about “Catch-22,” or at least that’s what they told me as they emptied my Santo, found nothing and offered to repack it. On the American Eagle puddle hopper jet with the fighter pilot seats and lunch box overhead, though I had minimized the Santo, it was equivalent to a sky diver’s parachute Thus, once every one was seated, I waded upstream to surrender it for stowage. Basically, you’ve preached this truth and I learned it the hard way. PACK LIGHT and lighter still! Ironically, this trip, I was reading “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed. In this book, and movie of the same name starring Reese Witherspoon, is an in-depth passage of how the heroine lightens “Monster” her backpack to reduce unnecessary weight and clutter. Unfortunately, it was a Normandy hotel that I read and came to this same conclusion about my monster. Overall, there was no problem slinging the Santo to my back and pulling the Cross Trek through five countries. Still, it could have been better with smaller. As usual, the fun came at the airport. Because of the necessity, caused by a scheduling problem, to check the Cross Trek I had to go through TSA a needless second time. Unnecessary, because if I’d had just carry-on this wouldn’t have happened. In Berlin and Dallas, they got anxious about my too tight bag, unloading and, in particular, running all my electronics through a second time. None of these experiences dampened the trip’s fun or experiences, but definitely lesson learned. My next trip entailed a 10 day August trip to Arizona. In Phoenix last year I used a portable luggage caddy, for the last time, and managed to catch a stanchion in the door of a bus. This trip the Santo, caddy and duffle bag stayed home, Utilizing the Cross Trek and a Mountain Smith lumbar bag, I carried everything with room to spare and breezed through DFW with no problems, but hold that thought. I Phoenix, watching other passengers wrestle with their “trunks,“ I felt a little smug easily hoisting the Cross Trek into the luggage holder of the rental-car-bus taking my seat and holding the lumbar pack on my lap. Back on the deck, effortlessly took a new meaning with the lumbar slung and secured round my waist and Cross Trek in tow. I never had to use the Cross Trek’s backpack features, it was nice to know they were there. And though I wore the same clothes and same luggage as when I started this trip, when I left Phoenix I got another “too tight bag” check. It’s something that happens, I get it and was glad I showed up early. but having minimal luggage made it that much easier. Hopefully, my experiences helps someone. Chris

Hey Chris, Thanks for sharing your experiences! I haven’t noticed that they like to pick apart bags that are too tightly packed, but certainly when they’ve insisted on digging to the bottom of a carry-on bag that I’ve meticulously packed, I’m never pleased. I guess you can say that’s one good point for checking luggage; no security check hassles!

I love Wild! I’ve read the book and watched the movie, and when she has her first overloaded pack, she reminds me of me when I started traveling 10 years ago! Even now that I’ve gone back to a checked-sized case, I’m still traveling pretty light by most standards.

Happy travels!

Actually Nora, due to the fact that I got no hassle wearing the same clothes and the same bags coming through one airport, then subjected to everything but a cavity search at another and addition to the dump, I got the pat down. Thus the “your bag is packed too tight” is an excuse for a thourough random search, much like a cop saying you drove over the right hand white line or failed to use a turn signal when making a curve. It’s not that I’ve done anything, it’s an excuse and my place in line. Of course watching them measure my bicycle wrench to see if it met specs was almost too funny for words. Still, I wouldn’t mind using checked, but generally I’m carrying my cameras and notebook, which is what they’ve suddenly gotten concerned about.

Regarding bags again, the European tour leader was surprised that I was traveling with only two bags compared to the steamer trunks some of the other travelers were toting. Which is what I liked so much about “Wild” and the lessons to live and travel with less. More happy travels and tales later and the same to you, Chris

Hey Chris, You pinned it – checks are often random. I remember passing security dozens of times with my little nail scissors. Then one time – they were seized. Sometimes I fly through, and other times I’m piecing together my stuff after it has been thoroughly searched. It’s part of the “fun” of air travel in this day and age, I guess! And yes – isn’t it nice to pack lighter than everybody else? I love the funny looks I get from people, especially when they learn that whatever is in my bag is everything I own!

Nora, Your last comment, “And yes – isn’t it nice to pack lighter than everybody else? I love the funny looks I get from people, especially when they learn that whatever is in my bag is everything I own!” Your words jumped out me resounding in my mind, particularly after recalling how, in August, passengers on a Dubai flight reached for their luggage after crash landing and ignored the order, and common sense, to GET OFF. I mean, honestly, is anybody’s life worth a Gucci bag, tooth brush or camera? Particularly, when the vehicle might explode at any time. As I was pondering that situation, I received an E-mail from my trip’s tour guide. This was a response to my lost canvas wallet that went missing about the fifth day of our June-July trip, and after arriving in Bastogne, Belgium. This wallet contained extra identification and a credit card. It was “backup” just in case. Thus, after searching my room thoroughly, I contacted the tour guide and searched the bus to no avail. I concluded it must have slipped out of my pocket, earlier in the day, at French truck stop we visited. The tour guide called the truck stop, but nothing had been turned in. A loss like this is no fun, but looking at the bigger picture I l had my passport, Euros, a good pair of shoes and my meals transportation were taken care until I returned to the USA. There was still a week of travel, so I had a choice if I was going to let this devastate the trip or my memories. Oh, and I haven’t lost a wallet or ID since I was 16. So, it’s not like I’m repeat offender. That night, I slept better than I had in a while and had a blast. Fast forward and it seems after “a thorough cleaning” of my Bastogne hotel room, they found the wallet and will mail it back. I’ve since replaced the credit card and ID, but I’ll still be glad to have the wallet and contents back. The lesson your words set in stone is that besides humping a small bag with everything I own, I’m also prepared to bail from a plane, digs or situation, without it, survive and carry on to travel, laugh and live some more. And if I get some funny looks over that fact, then the more the better. Happy travels, Chris

Hey Chris, You know, to be perfectly honest, if I survived a plane crash, I might have a hard time not grabbing my computer bag (always at my feet) on my way out of the plane…. ha ha! But you’re right. It’s just stuff. All of it. I understood that when I had my purse stolen in Cusco, and learned what it is to (have, and) lean on friends for support in times of crisis. https://www.theprofessionalhobo.com/my-purse-was-stolen-lessons-learned/

Nora, Ahh, you’ve got me! Since I also tend to fly with my shoulder bag at my feet, containing necessities, my laptop and cameras. Therefore, the temptation to sling my man-purse over my neck before leaping for the nearest exit, in a single bound over small children and old ladies, might be my kryptonite. Obviously, a case by case situation. Still, my concern are those yahoos opening the overhead bins. The equivalent of a Titanic survivor showing up at the lifeboat with a bag. Meantime, reading your account of Cusco, I commend your friends and read that we followed similar fail-safe procedures. In my case, I didn’t lose my cell phone so a call and my credit card were cancelled within the hour. Ahh, that 8-hour time difference. I also have the habit of writing down “Lessons Learned,” which everyone says hind-sight is 20/20. Though one guy says not his brother because he wears glasses! Don’t ask! Still, for example my TSA experience, it’s par for any trip that sometime, somewhere, one of these find stalwarts is going to have “wild hair,” except it, smile and cooperate. Thus, I try and anticipate, though not always perfectly. Which again, is the fun and experience of travel. In relation to our experiences, I’d consider something like “IF you knew you were going to lose your purse, wallet, phone and be in a plane crash, HOW would you dress? What would you carry in your pockets?” More to ponder! Thanks so much for all the great advice and adventures. Hopefully, I’ll have more to add. Chris

Something worth thinking about – it’s not just your back that can suffer hauling around a heavy backpack. For women, it can be really bad for your pelvic floor. If you do carry a backpack, or need to lift a heavy suitcase, make sure you know how to brace all those muscles first 🙂

Good advice, Kathryn!

From Elizabeth (copied from higher up above – no ability to reply there):

Hi Elizabeth, Unfortunately I can’t recommend any portable luggage carts from experience. I guess I’ve done pretty well choosing luggage with sturdy wheels; I ran my Eagle Creek gear warrior through its paces on a 3km hike up a dirt road in India….none the worse for wear. I also hauled it up a few gravel roads in Ecuador 😉

Anyway, post here if you find a luggage cart worth mentioning! 🙂

First, let me compliment your writing stile – it’s great how you can make one laugh out loud, even when writing just about luggage 😀 That’s exactly the kind of blog entry I needed after reading tons of backpack reviews.

Now here’s my problem: Even if your blog entry gave me a really good image about all the pros and cons of different luggage types, I´m still not sure if I should rather choose a usual trekking backpack (which might be more comfortable when carrying on the back) or a trolleybackpack like the Osprey Ozone 75 Convertible.

We plan to travel from Corsica to Norway in four months, mostly using trains and buses. I think usually the trolley funktion would be pretty practical in the most regions in Europe, but in winter in Norway and Sweden snow might be an issue.

After these four months we will fly to Costa Rica and stay in one place for one month, just leaving for daytrips.

Than we will fly to South America for one and a half months of free backpacking (aproximately in Ecuador, Peru and Chile). Bolivia will be our final destination where we will stay in La Paz or Santa Cruz (still has to be chosen, do you have experiences with these cities?) for five months, only leaving for weekend trips (maybe also longer hiking trips).

According to luggage reviews I heard about people being totally satisfied with their trolley-backpacks and others who say that a comfortable trekking backpack is still the better option and the trolleys wheels might hurt your back… Honestly, the more I search for luggage experiences, the more controverse opinions I find.

Do you (or does anyone else) have a good advice for my friend (back problems already) and me? Regular trekking backpack or trolleybackpack?

Thanks in advance!

P.S.: As a daypack I already bought myself the Pacsafe Z-28 PB160. Maybe that also plays a role when it comes to choosing the right additional luggage.

Hi Magdalena, Well, if your friend already has back problems, then I recommend the wheeled backpack for sure! 90-99% of the time, you’ll be able to use the wheels, and the few times you can’t, the straps will be handy and you won’t likely have to go far with your pack on your back.

Also, because you’ve already bought the Pacsafe daypack, if you have a trekking backpack, you’ll have to wear one pack on your back and the other on your front, which isn’t comfortable (or stylish, if you care about such things).

You may want to check out this post, for some updated luggage recommendations: https://www.theprofessionalhobo.com/checked-vs-carry-on-luggage-and-why-checked-is-best/

Someone once said, “A real man does not get the planet to carry his luggage for him.” If you’re a retired, elderly traveler, (they do exist, I met a couple from Europe in their 80’s, in Chiang Mai, Thailand) and you are suffering from age related weakness or physical problems of some sort, then wheelie luggage is okay. Otherwise, it’s kind of dorky. I’m going to be 68 in November, 2019, and I travel for months at a time with just one, 35 liter convertible backpack. My Minaal 2.0. But now I’m going even smaller. 21 liter carry on backpack with zip away backpack straps if I want to carry it like a duffle bag. One bag, carry on, minimalist travel.

Hi Robert, Yep! If you can go minimal and light weight (and not everybody is prepared to), then a small backpack makes travel very easy!

But I must counter that I don’t think rolling luggage is dorky – at all! What’s dorky, in my opinion, is wearing a large backpack on the back, and a smaller daypack on the front. Not only does it look dorky (especially when walking into a high-end hotel), but in my experience it’s awkward and impractical. (But of course, this wouldn’t be you if you’re traveling so light – I’ll bet you only have the one backpack, which is in considerably better taste) 😉

Rolling backpacks rock! Never thought I would say that :grinning: Yet here I am, after my first long trip through EU. Also if you are traveling to EU from somewhere else, I would suggest getting a VPN, it will save you in some tricky situations. While I was trying to book a hotel in a different country (I have previously found a few pages with good prices/discounts) some of them were blocked, so with a vpn I changed my location and I could access those pages. Any VPN will do, but I used nordVPN because it was the most popular one.

Great advice – thanks Vilijar! I too use and endorse NordVPN. Here’s a special link for anybody who is interested: https://go.nordvpn.net/aff_c?offer_id=15&aff_id=31324&url_id=902

Hi, this is a great post, My Pacsafe carry-on bag (discussed in the post) is actually soft-sided so could work for your trip – and I believe they have larger models that you can check in as well. As for carrying a suit for a wedding, that all boils down to the packing technique….as well as the availability of iron or dry cleaner on arrival!

The best luggage trackers of 2024 according to reviews

For $30 or less you'll never lose track of your luggage again!

Updated December 14, 2023

Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed's editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

Few things are more demoralizing than staring at an endlessly rotating baggage carousel and realizing your bag didn’t make it with you to your destination. Whether you’re heading off to a hard-earned vacation or returning home with only half your belongings, lost luggage is a serious buzzkill.

A luggage tracker can help give you peace of mind when checking bags and it can help you track down your items when they’ve gone astray. If you’re considering one, we scoured consumer reviews (and tested a few ourselves) to find the best luggage trackers of 2024.

Luggage trackers with lithium metal batteries are only permitted if their lithium content does not exceed 0.3 grams
Luggage trackers with lithium-ion batteries may only have a Watt-hour rating not exceeding 2.7 Wh

Not sure what that all means? No worries, we’ve found the best-bet options that meet these requirements and get fantastic reviews. TSA won’t bat an eye and you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that your luggage is only a phone app away from being found at all times.

The Best Luggage Trackers

Apple airtag: best luggage tracker for ios function ga4_link122() { window.datalayer.push(json.parse('{"event":"default_event"}')) }.

Compatibility: iOS | Location Tech: Bluetooth, iOS network | Good for: International travel | Battery life: Up to 3 years | Attachment design: Coin

An extensive network and excellent accuracy make the Apple AirTag the most popular luggage tracker on the market.

Also—our favorite feature—the AirTag allows you to track a bag that's up to 20 feet away—so if you suddenly realize you dropped your wallet, the FindMy app will show a big arrow letting you know if it's to your left, right, forward or ahead and how many feet away it is.

About the size of a quarter, Apple AirTags easily slip into bags and wallets without taking up too much space. We also like that you can rename the airtags in the Find My app, so you can identify and differentiate if your luggage and your partners are heading in two different directions.

Eufy: Best budget luggage tracker function ga4_link126() { window.dataLayer.push(JSON.parse('{"event":"default_event"}')) }

A QR code, an affordable price-point, and tracking accuracy make this a terrific luggage tracker.

Compatibility: iOS | Location Tech: Bluetooth | Good for: International travel | Battery life: Up to 3 years | Attachment design: Standard loop or credit card

This well-priced tracker works with Apple’s Find My app. It allows you to track your belongings even if they take a trip around the world while you're sitting on a couch in Poughkeepsie. If luggage goes missing, a QR code on the back lets the finder contact you using whatever information you choose to share. The compact shape, water-resistant exterior, and a hole for attaching the tracker to a keychain make the Eufy tracker a top choice amongst shoppers. Plus, it runs about $10 cheaper than an Apple AirTag.

It's worth noting that the Eufy is iOS-specific. If you have an Android, we have other suggestions, but if you have an iPhone, it's a great option. I have both the Eufy and the AirTag. While I love the Eufy for the QR code and the keyhole design, I love that the AirTag gives a real tracking option that tells you when you're getting "warmer" or "colder" depending on how close you are to your item. That said, the Eufy will let you see exactly where the item is and if it's moving. It has the location accuracy to say, "Yes, your bag is here with you at Terminal C." It just doesn't have the location accuracy to tell you, "Hey, your bag is actually behind you and only 6 feet away."

Samsung Galaxy SmartTag: Best luggage tracker for Galaxy users function ga4_link129() { window.dataLayer.push(JSON.parse('{"event":"default_event"}')) }

Product image of Samsung Galaxy SmartTag

The Samsung SmartTag and SmartTag 2 will alert you the minute your Galaxy device is separated from you, for faster tracking of misplaced (or pickpocketed) items!

Compatibility: Galaxy | Location Tech: Bluetooth LE, Galaxy Network | Good for: International travel | Battery life: Up to 500 days in “normal mode” | Attachment design: Keyring

If we were to find one flaw with these tags it’s that they are exclusively for Galaxy users. They obviously don’t work on Apple products, but you should also know they won’t work on Android devices either.

Tile Pro Bluetooth Tracker: Best luggage tracker for Andriod and iOS function ga4_link132() { window.dataLayer.push(JSON.parse('{"event":"default_event"}')) }

A highly versatile tag with standout features, the Tile allows for real-time tracking of items and tracking history. Plus, it works equally well with Apple and Android devices.

Compatibility: iOS, Android | Location Tech: Bluetooth, Tile Network | Good for: International travel | Battery life: One year | Attachment design: Standard loop, credit card, key ring

The extra loud alarm comes in handy when you’re trying to locate a bag in a noisy airport or train station. Reviewers say the alarm on the Tile is the loudest of any luggage tracker, making it useful to those with hearing impairments.

Because the Tile accommodates both iOS and Android devices, it doesn’t force you to be specifically devoted to one operating system. You can keep the tracker whether you decide to trade your iPhone for an Android or vice-versa. And if you’re tracking family luggage, you and your partner don’t have to worry about being on the same OS—both of you can shoulder the mental load of tracking down your pieces (mom swoon).

The “community find” feature functions in the same way as an Apple AirTag’s “Find My” feature does. The Tile connects to others using the app. While it’s not quite as robust as the Apple Find My network, keep in mind that the Tile Network is on both Apple and Android devices, so it’s still very effective and allows you to track the movement of your belongings accurately.

While the aforementioned features are free, a paid subscription allows for a Smart Alert, which lets you know when you leave a belonging behind—or if it’s been separated from you, like forgetting your wallet in a cab or if you’ve been pickpocketed. With this subscription, Tile will also reimburse you $100 if your Tile can’t locate your items.

Pebble Bee: Best sustainable luggage tracker function ga4_link135() { window.dataLayer.push(JSON.parse('{"event":"default_event"}')) }

Compatibility: iOS, Android | Location Tech: Bluetooth, iOS & Android | Good for: International travel | Battery life: About 5 to 6 months | Attachment design: Standard loop, credit card

Affordable and with accurate tracking, the Pebble Bee also minimizes e-waste with its rechargeable battery.

It’s also an equal-opportunity tracker. If you’re on an Android and can’t connect to the Apple network, Pebble Bee has its own app that Android users can connect to. The downside is that the network is far smaller than the Apple Network or even the Tile Network, so it’s not quite as effective for real-time tracking.

Dynotag: Best battery-free smart tag function ga4_link138() { window.dataLayer.push(JSON.parse('{"event":"default_event"}')) }

Compatibility: N/A | Location Tech: N/A | Good for: Domestic travel | Battery life: No battery | Attachment design: Credit card with standard loop

For the one who shirks technology (but still wants to keep tabs on their bags).

A QR code houses whatever contact info you are comfortable revealing. When scanned, the person who has found your luggage can access that information to get your luggage back to you. If they scan the QR code and don’t bother to connect—that’s no problem—you’ll get their location and IP address.

It’s important to note that this is not a luggage tracker but a smart tag that can simplify the return process if your bag gets separated from you.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Luggage Tracker

Battery life: There are all sorts of GPS trackers out there. The luggage trackers we’ve listed above all have a long battery life. Remember White Lotus season 2? Cam’s luggage was missing for the entire trip to Sicily. While most luggage will be found in a few days, it’s not unheard of for luggage to turn up weeks after first going missing. Do yourself a favor and don’t stress over battery life. All of our recs have long-lasting batteries that can be replaced and refreshed before a big trip.

Location Tech: Of course you’ll be buying a luggage tag that is compatible with your device—but be sure to take into consideration the location technology. Non-GPS-specific trackers use tracking apps to keep tabs on your belongings. Just like a cell phone requires a tower to connect to the network, these trackers require an in-device app to geo-locate your luggage tag. All of the tags recommended here connect to a robust tracking network.

Attachment designs: All of the devices we’ve recommended are about the size of a quarter or a silver dollar for the keychain designs and the size of a credit card for wallet designs. There are larger options, but they didn’t rise up to the recommendation level. Decide if you prefer a device that will hook onto your keychain or luggage tag, or if you want to just slip it into your bag. Many of these devices come in a variety of options.

Are luggage trackers worth it?

Luggage trackers may not be for everyone, but when I inadvertently dropped my favorite fanny pack at LAX I wished I had had one. Many airports require you to pay a fee to track down and return misplaced items, so the small cost of my Air Tag was undeniably worth it should something like that occur again.

Still other times I’ve stood by the luggage carousel for over an hour waiting for my items, only to find out they were likely still at my layover location. What I wouldn’t have given to have headed home and gone to bed after hours in the air.

Travel can be hectic. Whether you’re crossing your fingers as you hand luggage off to your airline or sleep deprivation leaves your attention to detail highly compromised, it’s nice to have something as simple as a luggage tracker to help the journey be less stressful.

Plus, none of these trackers are over $30. For us, that money is a drop in the bucket compared to the invaluable peace of mind they provide.

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The 25 Best Travel Bags for Every Kind of Trip

It's all about the right luggage.

Whether it’s a two-day business trip to Boston or a boys’ weekend in Miami, there are a lot of different ways your bag can support you. Along with handy features, looks play a part, too; you should be proud of the bag you are toting along. Get yourself that snazzy weekender with hidden pockets and a built-in cooling compartment. Treat yourself to that sleek Rimowa roller you’ve been eyeing since last year. Splurge on that monogrammed duffel to replace the one your investment bank gave you when you signed on. Don’t go on another trip without your new bag, and take some action now.

Best Travel Duffle Bag

Herschel supply co. novel duffel.

Most Versatile Travel Bag

Longchamp le pliage energy.

Best Hard Shell Carry-On Travel Bag

Rimowa cabin s carry-on suitcase.

Best Travel Backpack

Away the everywhere zip backpack.

Best Lightweight Travel Bag

Métier vagabond duffel.

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On Travel Bag

Samsonite pro travel softside expandable carry-on luggage.

Best Travel Garment Bag

Tumi garment bag tri-fold carry-on.

Best Garment Duffel

Halfday the garment duffel.

Best Neoprene Travel Bag

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

Best Luxury Duffel

Lucchese cosimo garment duffel.

Our favorite luggage brands make it easy to elevate your travel style . If you need help narrowing down your choices, we have our 25 favorites that our editors have tested and reviewed. Out with the old, in with a new travel bag.

When it comes to quick trips that last a day or two, a duffel is what you need. And Herschel’s Novel bag is, in so many words, the best bang for your buck. Not only is it incredibly durable and spacious enough for several fits (there’s also a separate compartment for your shoes), but it’s also less than $100. That’s what we call a win-win.

Drawing its inspiration from origami, Longchamp’s convertible travel bag is one of the most versatile out there. Wear it as a backpack or carry it around as a weekender, this bag is going to get you from point A to point B with ease. It’s sporty and practical and effortlessly in fashion.

From Karl Lagerfeld to David Fincher to Martha Stewart, all the high rollers can be seen toting this suitcase. It’s got distinctive grooves and an ergonomic design, and it just screams class. Plus, the TSA-approved locks are keeping your belongings extra secure.

It’s also Esquire approved and worthy of an investment.

For train travel, bus voyages ( ooof, we feel your pain ), or even a trip involving a connecting flight, there’s nothing like a good backpack to keep you hands-free and moving at a quick pace. Made of water-resistant nylon, Away’s backpack is a durable choice with padded shoulder straps and a laptop pocket.

Surprisingly lightweight, Métier’s duffel is a luxe option for frequent travelers. It’s thoughtfully designed with specific places for toiletries, sunglasses, a laptop, and the rest of your valuables. A secret card slot in the exterior pocket makes for easier travel at the airport.

In the luggage realm, there are very few that hold a candle to Samsonite. For more than a century (yes, that long), the brand has been churning out travel accessories, always offering quality styles for the day. It doesn’t get bogged down by its history. This soft-shell spinner, for example, features wireless charging pockets and a compartment for toiletries, and it’s made of 100 percent ballistic nylon. It’s also less than $250, which makes is a virtual steal.

Business executives know the importance of a garment bag. When you just hopped off the plane and are running late to that meeting, never stress trying to find a steamer again. TUMI is saving you from wrinkle embarrassment, keeping you put together everywhere and anytime.

We love our garment bags in duffel form. They are practical for traveling with suits or other formal clothes, but you can also use them for quick casual trips. Need more convincing? Check out our endorsement of this one.

In a flexible neoprene, Dagne Dover's carryall is one of the lightest duffels out there. It's got a laptop sleeve, and it also comes with a shoe bag and a dust bag. It also makes for a great gym bag, if you want something that's multipurpose.

We love this duffel so much, it was even one of the travel products our editors can't live without . Converting from a garment sleeve to a duffel bag, its versatility meets a luxurious style for a bag you will have for decades.

July Carry All Weekender Plus

Much like it's name denotes, this truly is a carry-all at its 50L capacity. A large padded pocket fits your laptop, and hidden pockets with magnetic closures keep your smaller belongings tucked away safely. If you are going somewhere for the long-haul, it also easily attaches onto your luggage.

Paravel Aviator Grand Suitcase

Paravel is new-ish to the luggage game, but in just a short time it is succeeding in the competitive market by focusing entirely on sustainability. The brand's collection is not only beautifully designed, but they are also made of recycled plastic water bottles. It also plants trees through Eden Reforestation Projects to offset the carbon emissions it produces via shipping.

Meisterstück Meisterstück Document Case

From the finest writing instruments to regal timepieces, Montblanc offers the kind of items beloved by jet-setters, C-suite executives, and anyone else of that sort. Naturally, this means that its briefcase is one of the best around, and will surely induce envy from the rest of the folks in first class.

Zero Halliburton Large Travel Case

When it comes to luxury, you can't ignore Zero Halliburton. This label is, after all, the maker of the iconic damage-resistant aluminum briefcases, so rest assured that its large spinner will stay looking good while its be tossed and turned from the check-in booth to baggage claim.

Victorinox Spectra 3.0 Frequent Flyer Carry-On

This Swiss brand makes luggage that lasts. Constructed in a high performance recycled polycarbonate, this suitcase is durable and eco-conscious. It expands by 20 percent and has multiple compartments for smart storage. We also love this piece from Victorinox because you can personalize it for no added cost.

Coofay Travel Backpack

Now you can pack for a weekend trip in a backpack. There's a laptop compartment, separate shoe storage, and a USB charging port. Travel compactly and with rest assured that everything you need it right on your back.

Lululemon Command the Day Duffel Bag

Aptly named, this bag is going to be your 24/7 savior. A water-repellent fabric protects against spills and weather. You can stay organized with the allocated pockets for shoes, laptop, and gear.

Yeti Crossroads Duffel Bag

You know Yeti for its coolers and bottles, but you're about to love it for its luggage. A water and abrasion-resistant exterior coupled with reinforced stitching makes this one of the most durable duffels on the market.

Mark & Graham 2-in-1 Garment Bag

This bag is literally a transformer. Going from garment bag to duffel, it helps to protect your clothing with its folding design. The smart silhouette even leaves room for two pairs of shoes to store at the side.

Mack Weldon Atlas Duffle

This reinforced canvas duffle will pass any test you put it through—from the gym to the plane. It has multiple pockets, one that's designated for shoes and the other for drinks and snacks ( remember to throw those out before you get to TSA ), and a slip-resistant bottom.

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7 Best Luggage Trackers and Tags of 2024

Effective GPS, bluetooth and WiFi trackers so your bags end up where you do.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , we regularly test travel electronics , including the best luggage trackers. Our picks include tags that our Lab pros have tested in our search to find the best key finders .

Our top picks:

BEST OVERALL LUGGAGE TRACKER

Apple airtag.

BEST VALUE LUGGAGE TRACKER

Tile pro pro bluetooth tracker.

Most Popular Luggage Tracker

Samsung galaxy smarttag.

Most Versatile Luggage Tracker

BEST LUGGAGE TRACKER FOR ANDROIDS

Landairsea gps tracker.

BEST LUGGAGE TRACKER for International Travel

Tracki gps tracker.

BEST LUGGAGE TRACKING TAG

Dynotag stainless steel smart luggage id tag.

If you are looking for more smart gadgets, consult our guides to the best smart wallets and best smart luggage . For even more luggage options (that will now be tracked thanks to your luggage tag), reference our experts' top picks for the best hardside luggage .

Reliability and accuracy go hand in hand with the Apple AirTag. It's compact and lightweight, so you can track a host of things you often misplace, from keys to backpacks to, of course, luggage . Our GH experts also like that the battery is easily replaceable. Simply set up your AirTag on your iPhone or iPad's Bluetooth with one tap, then listen for the pinging from the AirTag's built-in speaker to guide you to your belongings. It's designed for those in the Apple ecosystem, so it's not ideal if you have an Android or other device.

Apple has not specified its exact Bluetooth range, but it's believed that each AirTag supports Bluetooth 5.0, which means it should be trackable within 800 feet . You can also track the device in real-time by following it in the Find My network. Activate "Lost Mode" for notifications when it is in rang e or has been located by the Find My network. Your AirTag will ping off of nearby Apple devices to gauge its location, so you can still track your bag if it ends up miles away. You can also input your phone number and email so that if someone finds a lost AirTag, they can tap it using their iPhone to display your contact info.

RELATED: 10 Best AirTag Wallets to Keep Cash Safe

Battery type: Replaceable | Compatibility: Bluetooth networks | Subscription: None | Size: 3.27 in. x 0.47 in. x 4.09 in.

Another classic Bluetooth tracker, Tile's item finder earned the top spot in our best key finder tests for its ability to t rack your personal items up to 400 feet . For items that haven't trekked too far in the airport, it sounds off 80 decibels, according to our Lab tests, so you’ll be sure to hear it. It syncs up with Google Assistant so you can ask your smart speaker to locate your Tile for you. Like the AirTag, it also boasts a one-year lifespan before you should replace the battery. As a bonus, its water resistance means you can stress less about it short-circuiting from liquids.

Download the Tile app to pinpoint when and where you left something behind. The Community Find option will notify you when any phone with the Tile app is in proximity to your Tile, allowing you to pinpoint your lost item even if it's out of range. This set of four means you can track the whole family's bags.

Battery type: Replaceable | Compatibility: Bluetooth networks | Subscription: Optional Tile Premium ($2.99 per month) or Tile Premium Protect ($8.33 per month) | Size: 2.32 in x 0.3 in x 1.32 in.

Like the Apple AirTag but for Galaxy users, this Samsung smart tag lets you track your personal belongings up to 390 feet. Once out of range, the offline Galaxy Find Network in the SmartThings app pinpoints it using scanned data nearby. It also keeps a log of where the tag's been , so you can retrace its steps. Though we haven't tested this one in our Lab, we are hoping to soon.

For now, we appreciate its replaceable battery life and that the technology is similar to other trackers we have evaluated. It also has a 4.4-star rating on Amazon with over 5,500 five-star reviews that comment on the tracker's accuracy and reliability with one customer saying the tag helped locate her lost luggage after showing the attendant their phone at baggage claim.

Battery type: Replaceable | Compatibility: Bluetooth networks | Subscription: Not listed | Size: 1.54 in x 1.54 in x 0.39 in

Living up to its name, this tracker is as slim as a credit card — ideal for slipping inside your purse, wallet or pocket. In fact, our experts named it the best key finder for a purse in testing. We appreciate its waterproof design and that you can use it to track more than just luggage: Pop it inside your favorite notebook or your tablet's case.

The tile is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri, and the app is available for both iOS and Android . We recommend downloading the app as it allows you to track your luggage even if the tile is out of Bluetooth range, which goes up to 250 feet. There is also added security if you add your contact information to the Tile Network, a secure and anonymous platform that will help return your lost tile to you when the QR code is scanned.

Battery type: 3-year non-replaceable | Compatibility: Bluetooth networks | Subscription: Optional Tile Premium ($2.99 per month) or Tile Premium Protect ($8.33 per month) | Size: 4.53 in x 0.41 in x 4.53 in

A bit of an upgrade from a smart tag, this GPS tracker lets you eye your personal belongings in real-time. There's no shortage of ways to keep your luggage on your radar: The LandAirSea app and website let you receive text and email alerts while tracking the device’s location on Google Maps. It also keeps a log of where the tag's been, so you can retrace its steps like how long it idled in one place.

Though we haven't tested this one in our Lab, we appreciate the GPS technology for large areas of coverage and accuracy. One Amazon reviewer named it one of the best Android-compatible GPS trackers they've used, calling it "user friendly" and praising its accuracy. They added that it gave them peace of mind about their valuables during connecting flights within the US.

Battery type: Rechargeable | Compatibility: GPS | Subscription: Starting at $19.95 per month | Size: 2.25 in x 2.25 in x 0.8 in.

Stash this pocket-sized GPS luggage tracker in your valuables for your next trip abroad. Its real-time tracking capabilities and included international SIM card work for unlimited distances , perfect for a queue of connecting flights overseas. With over 26,000 five-star ratings, Amazon reviewers praise its live tracking via Google Street View and its app alerts that let you know when it crosses a Geo boundary you set, has a low battery and more.

Though we haven't tested this pick in the Lab, we appreciate that it works with WiFi when indoors and GPS satellites when outdoors. Once you start tracking your bag, Tracki offers about five days of real-time tracking before it needs another charge. Without real-time tracking, the brand claims its battery spans 30 to 75 days using the battery save mode, and you can still check your bag's location here and there.

Battery type: Rechargeable | Compatibility: GPS and WiFi | Subscription: Required $19.95 monthly fee | Size: 1.81 in. x 1.5 in. x 0.6 in.

OK, so it's not a true GPS tracker, but Dynotag's smart ID is a major step up from typical luggage tags. The tag displays a custom QR code that lets the owner register their contact info , including a name, phone number and address, in case a fellow traveler finds it. Worried about your info falling into the wrong hands? Every time the QR code is scanned, it automatically notifies the owner via email and includes the scanner's IP address.

The website also asks the person for their location info for easier communication. We haven't tried this pick in the Lab yet, but we like that several Amazon reviewers highlighted its easy setup and durability. Its sturdy stainless construction ensures it won't be easily ripped off when chucked underneath the airplane.

Battery type: N/A | Compatibility: QR code | Subscription: None | Size: 3.15 in. x 1.73 in.

How we chose the best luggage trackers

Our Good Housekeeping Institute engineers regularly test the latest and greatest tech like fitness trackers , smart rings and even dog GPS trackers , so you know what's really worth the investment based on your needs. We haven't formally tested luggage trackers, but our recommendations come from a combination of one-off GPS tracker tests by our experts, previous testing from our Lab's best key finders guide and picks from highly rated online reviews.

Luggage trackers utilize GPS, Bluetooth or WiFi to locate an item. "A GPS tracker taps into a global satellite system that uses microwave signals to help track down the precise location of where the unit is in real time," says Good Housekeeping Institute Chief Technologist & Executive Technical Director Rachel Rothman . In our test for key finders, we tried some in our Lab and sent others to consumer testers for real user feedback. We logged dozens of hours with these trackers, collecting hundreds of data points including the length of the tracking range, the loudness of the alerts according to a decibel reader, the ease of replacing the batteries and how easy it was to use the apps.

What features to consider in a luggage tracker

✔️ Battery type : Some GPS trackers use rechargeable batteries that only last a few days before needing to be plugged in, while others come with replaceable batteries that can last well over a year, Rachel says. If you're on a longer excursion, invest in one with a long battery life.

✔️ Compatibilities : "It’s ideal to look for a tracker with a couple of complimentary technologies being used," Rachel says. "That way, no matter where in the world your luggage winds up, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you can track it down!" For those that only use Bluetooth, you’ll have to be in close proximity, so it’s less advantageous for luggage tracking and better suited to finding a set of lost keys in your house. Some use Bluetooth and WiFi or tap into larger Bluetooth device networks to offer more coverage, as is the case with AirTag and Tile . Those with GPS offer large areas of coverage and more accuracy but can easily be obscured indoors.

✔️ Subscription fees : Many tracking devices offer basic features free of charge, but some offer premium features like GPS tracking or real-time location services with a monthly subscription. Make sure the device you choose comes with the functionality you want before you commit to a subscription plan.

✔️ Size : Luggage trackers come in a few standard sizes, and none are particularly large (think a credit card size in terms of length and width), Rachel says. Some are smaller and can double as a keychain attachment or tuck nicely into a pocket so it stays hidden. The best tracker for you depends upon how versatile you want it to be: If it will be solely for luggage, a bit larger is likely fine, but if you want to use it for keys and wallets, too, you might want to look for a smaller form.

Are luggage trackers worth it?

Luggage trackers may not be necessary for every type of traveler, but it can be a game changer for others. Think about how often you travel, where you are traveling to and the value of the items you will be transporting. For example, if you tend to travel near and far for work, a tracker may be beneficial for keeping track of the suitcase that contains your work necessities. Or, if you travel internationally and are no stranger to connecting flights, a luggage tracker will let you virtually follow your bags between airports.

"The best case scenario is they became devices that you never need to use, but offer a tremendous sense of relief in the case you do need them," says Rachel. Plus, you can use the same tracker for non-luggage items like your wallet.

How effective are luggage trackers?

The performance of a luggage tracker depends on the technology said tracker employs. For example, a tracker that uses a Bluetooth network can track a piece of luggage to 200 feet or more. Some trackers have a greater range, or include additional smart features such as connecting to Find My Network or Apple AirTag which makes those products even more effective at tracking your luggage.

Are luggage trackers TSA-approved?

Know that the Transportation Security Agency (TSA) approves of navigation GPS devices in both carry-on and checked luggage. However, keep in mind that there are no detailed guidelines on specific TSA-approved luggage tracker models in this category, so the TSA agent at your designated security checkpoint has the authority to make any final approval on whether the item is allowed.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

As Good Housekeeping's Chief Technologist & Executive Technical Director, Rachel Rothman oversees testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all labs. During her 14 years with the Institute, the self-described Gadget Girl has had the opportunity to evaluate thousands of products, including countless innovative breakthroughs in consumer tech and home improvement. She ran the testing of the above Lab-recommend picks and lent her expertise on GPS trackers to this guide. Commerce Editor Jacqueline Saguin teamed up with Rachel and vetted popular online reviews to round up all of the above luggage tracker picks. She regularly collaborates with the Labs to synthesize its data in putting together product reviews on the best products, according to testing.

Jacqueline (she/her) covers all things e-commerce in beauty, lifestyle and beyond for the Good Housekeeping Institute . Before joining GH in 2021, she was a style and beauty reviews fellow at Insider, testing viral trends, reviewing sustainable brands and more. She's a graduate of the University of Florida's School of Journalism, with a specialty in magazines and mass communication.

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The best suitcases for stylish storage on the go

By Owen Gough

Shop GQ ’s pick of the very best suitcases to get you where you need to be, from Antler and Rimowa to Gucci and Louis Vuitton

There’s nothing that can kill the joy of a summer getaway than having to deal with a low-quality suitcase. From wonky wheels to broken zippers, there’s only so much you should put up with when prepping for a summer holiday, so we recommend you give your luggage a much-needed spruce up. We’ll literally do anything to make that airport queue slightly more bearable. Pair it up with a quality pair of noise-cancelling headphones and a fancy new passport holder and you’re all set up to breeze through departures with swagger.

Your only upcoming issue is having to figure out which suitcase is going to be best for you. From wheeled suitcases and cabin bags to luggage sets ripped straight from Jennifer Coolidge’s White Lotus collection, we’ve got a good eye for picking out the best luggage brand options, so allow us to guide you through the best options.

What is the best suitcase to buy?

Image may contain: Luggage, and Suitcase

Horizn Studios H Series

Horizn Studios

Blending a super slick aesthetic with eco-friendly credentials and suitcase smarts like a phone charger and compression pad, Horizn's H Series cases have it all, and at not too scary a price tag.

Away The Bigger Carry-On

Away Travel

If you're a regular long-weekender, Away's bigger carry-on can handle much longer than three nights but won't have you in a sticky situation at the departure desk. Features like a USB charger and accompanying laundry bag will make your trip all the more organised, too.

Image may contain: Luggage, Furniture, Crib, and Suitcase

Rimowa Classic Cabin S

Rimowa is the collaborator of choice for fashion houses as high up as Dior, so you know it's doing something right. Its aluminium luggage is a first-class travel companion you'll never tire of packing.

Best lightweight suitcase: American Tourister Soundbox, £145 £120 at amazon.co.uk
Best suitcase for personalisation: Carl Friedrik, £465 at harveynichols.com
Best suitcase for suits: Briggs & Riley Baseline, £599 at briggs-riley.co.uk
Best suitcase for tardis-like capacity: Eastpak Tranverz, £112.50 at amazon.co.uk
Best suitcase for security: Delsey Monacy, £146 at amazon.co.uk
Best suitcase for city breaks: Antler Clifton Cabin with Pocket, £199 at antler.co.uk
Best leather suitcase: Brunello Cucinelli, £4,150 at matchesfashion.com

How we test the best suitcases

To guarantee that your travels pass without frustration, we’ve tested a number of suitcases from some of the best brands around. Our editors have picked out a selection of luggage options designed to cope with planes, trains and automobiles, assessing ease of use, packaging space, durability and any other features that might be useful, like materials, expandable storage options and colourways to make them easier to spot on the carousel.

What luggage brand is best?

We're glad you asked. We've got a dedicated guide on the best luggage brands you need to know about to smooth over any potential travel mishaps, but generally, there's plenty of choice when it comes to who you buy with.

You'll all be fully aware of the most popular options like Samsonite and Rimowa ; titans of travel who are well-versed in what makes up a quality suitcase. These options will be perfect companions on your journeys, with bags, carry-ons and large trunks that can cope with weekend getaways, adventurous city breaks, and long-haul visits to the other side of the world. Here, bags can start on the affordable end of the scale, making it a great choice for cheap and cheerful luggage to get you through your immediate travel plans.

More rugged options like that of DB and Antler will scratch the wander-lust itch in you, with models to cope with more arduous journeys that stray away from the luxury of the Business Class lounge.

As for the the sartorial options, we'd recommend taking a look at Carl Friedrik , Globe Trotter and Tumi for suitcases that boast a stylish presence from the front door to the hotel bed. Granted, these will be much more costly, but consider them an investment piece. If you travel often and want to stay stylish throughout, you won't find many better options.

What size suitcase do I need?

As any frequent traveller knows, the golden rule is to always travel with the best carry-on luggage if you can. To avoid getting caught out by any exorbitant last-minute handling fees, check that any cabin case you want to store in an overhead locker is no longer than 55cm and is no bigger than the listed requirements on the airline’s website.

An easy way around this problem is to opt for a smaller expandable suitcase in the first place, with compression straps that can cram in as much as possible. Also, make sure your hand luggage doesn’t boast ridiculously large wheels or a massive handle, as it’ll have less chance of squeezing into those metal sizing frames that airlines are so fond of. Should you be in need of a large suitcase to check in, opt for something with a length upwards of 75cm and a capacity of around 70L, and look out for suitcases that are expandable for roomy storage. Remember, however, that the larger the luggage, the weightier, so you could be better off opting for a soft shell suitcase to keep kgs down.

An alternative to wheeled suitcases is to check out our guide on the best backpacks . You might think this is a less sartorial option and betrays your potentially breezy journey through the airport as you lug your gear over your shoulder, but there's plenty to appreciate about rucksacks generally. Often the choice for long-distance backpackers and journeyman travellers, the best travel backpacks can house a surprising amount of gear to be taken onto the plane, train or bus, with the freedom to tackle stairs or more adventurous modes of transportation than chunkier suitcases can cope with.

Of course, if you’re travelling within the UK (may we direct you to our guides to the best UK holiday cottages and hotels ), just make sure it’s the right size for your car and/or won’t take up too much space on a train.

Is hard or soft-sided luggage better?

Unless your bag is being put in the overhead locker, stay clear of soft-sided suitcases to avoid damage to your possessions inside. Either way, ask to have your luggage marked as fragile and it will be one of the first to come off of the plane. Hard-shell suitcases tend to be the most durable and are the kind of luggage most pilots use for good reason. It also tends to be much more stylish, with luxury aluminium finishes offering an especially high-end look.

That said, your suitcase is still likely to get chucked about a fair bit on its journey, so get a case that has separate compartments to make sure that you don’t smell like duty-free vodka for the entirety of your weekend away. You can keep things neat with the help of packing cubes, which brands such as Away offer in multipacks of various sizes ( set of six , £65).

What material should I look for in a suitcase?

Leather or waxed twill cotton are the usual suspects in the soft-shell area, thanks to their water-resistant capabilities and durability. Generally, you won’t be lugging around any bulky digital equipment, so you could choose to avoid the clunky protection of a polycarbonate shell suitcase, though the sleeker aluminium casing by brands such as Rimowa and Samsonite is increasingly appealing. Similarly, don’t buy a case that is going to look dirty and damaged after one flight – stay away from white or cream colours. If it’s a short trip and you’re not a heavy traveller, a duffel bag offers a convenient way to get around without the hangups of wheels, bulk or weight.

How much should I spend on a suitcase?

As with most travel essentials , the important thing here is that you do get what you pay for with a suitcase. Granted, airport security will gleefully break open your bag if they can’t access it easily, but durability is crucial in any luggage item.

So do the sensible thing and test all the TSA locks, zips and other appendages that could break before investing. Luggage that comes with a one-year warranty is also a huge boon, should some baggage handler chuck your case around as though it’s Thor’s hammer. This increased hardiness comes at a price, so if you’re after proper protection, anything more than £300 should be best placed to get you through your trip. Top picks will inevitably cost more, around the £500 mark, but if you’re working with a budget, £150 can get you from A-to-B comfortably.

As you should expect, designer-led options will easily shoot the cost beyond the £1,000 mark, radically elevating your sartorial travel reputation well into the luxurious. These exceptionally pricey models don't offer any more protection but will unlock the option to release a smug smile as you witness admiring glances through security.

Finally, if you’re a frequent flyer, think about the extras you actually want from a suitcase, such as easy-access front pockets, an extendable handle or wheels. An in-built phone charger is all very well, but most airplanes have a USB port embedded by your seating as standard…

For more fashion, grooming and technology releases delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our GQ Recommends newsletter .

Shop GQ's full edit of the best suitcase you can buy for 2024…

Tumi Short Trip Packing Case

We like: Huge range of luggage options | exceptionally luxurious, high-end design | Several storage shelves for packing

We don’t like: Very expensive

Type: Hard case
Sizes: Carry-on (35L), short trip (55L) and world-wide trip (122L)
Best colourways: Silver or Matte Black
Max capacity: 122L
Weight: 6.2KG

Easily one of the most sought-after suitcases, at least in GQ's office anyway, is Tumi's durable, ultra-luxe set of bags, cases and luggage. Seriously, just look at this thing. If it doesn't catch the eye of every globe-trotter in your lounge, then we don't think the world has taste or style.

And below that gorgeous outer shell, there's a whole host of useful packing features to guarantee a smooth journey. The top-tier option has packing shelves that dissect the interior for more organised storage but it also is cavernous across the range, so you'll find plenty of space to pack suits, shoes and all your swim shots without fretting. The locks are, of course, TSA-approved, and its high-price tag presents an air of confidence that this is a truly quality product. From £950. At uk.tumi.com

Antler Prestwick large

We like: Water resistant materials | Surprisingly robust

We don’t like: Pricey

Type: Soft shell
Sizes: Cabin, medium, large and luggage set
Best colourways: Nav
Weight: 3.2KG

If it’s a first-class case to take you into the lounge, then Antler’s Prestwick set offers a suitable amount of sophistication alongside its hardiness. The lightweight softshell is water-resistant, and robust and looks properly good as you glide out of customs. Storage is decent, though we’d perhaps like a little more at this price. And, as with all Antler options, it comes with a lifetime warranty, serving you well for your 25th trip to the Costa Del Sol. £240. At antler.co.uk

Carl Friedrik The Check-in

We like: Can be matched as a set with The Carry-On | Spacious | Hard-shelled four-wheeled suitcase

We don’t like: Very expensive | Not a good option for vegan travellers

Type: Hard shell
Sizes: Large and standard
Best colourways: Cognac would be our pick but it also comes in a special edition Alpha Tauri collection
Max capacity: 65.8L
Weight: 4.5KG

In our opinion, you can’t go wrong with a lovely bit of Italian leather to level up your luggage game. Carl Friedrik’s Check-in series is a luxurious case designed for travelling in style. It’s not the most spacious or largest on our list, but it’s big enough for a week’s worth of clothes and has a strap to properly clamp things down inside. The silent spinner wheels are the gold standard of transportation, though it does come with the deluxe price tag. £465. At carlfriedrik.com

Samsonite Upscape

We like: Five-year guarantee | Eye-catching design | Huge capacity

We don’t like: Combination lock is hard to reach

Sizes: Large only
Best colourways: Climbing Ivy is a gorgeous colour to see rolling around the carousel
Max capacity: 83L
Weight: 2.16KG

Any traveller worth their salt will have heard of Samsonite’s jet-setting pedigree and we think the Upscape set is well worth considering if you’re looking to upgrade your luggage. The hard-shell case comes in four dazzling colours that are heavily accentuated by the ripple-effect design that protects it from dents and bumps. There’s plenty of space for a two-week holiday and the shock-absorbing wheels go a long way to dealing with any bumps on the road. £219. At johnlewis.com & amazon.co.uk

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Carl Friedrik All Black Edition

We like: Beautiful design | Front pocket for laptop storage | TSA-approved lock | Removable compression pad and straps

We don’t like: Very expensive | Shell is easy to scratch

Sizes: Carry-on (40L), carry-on Pro (43L), Check-in (65.8L) and Large Check-In (90L) (122L)
Best colourways: Black on black
Max capacity: 43L
Weight: 4.3KG

We adore Carl Friedrik's heavyweight travel pedigree that's been accumulated over the last few years, featuring in ultra-luxe shows such as Succession and White Lotus . However, for the ultimate stealth wealth flex, the all-black edition of the set – from smaller carry-on up to large check-in – is our top pick.

This particular set of luggage is forever ready for an adventure, with TSA-approved locks, a charging port to keep your phone topped up and a front compartment to store pens, passports and even a laptop for easy removal when you get to security. Whisper-quiet wheels will see you glide through the terminal, appreciating the admiring glances of those who notice true quality in your luggage. From £445. At carlfriedrik.com

Db Ramverk Pro Carry-on Silver

We like: Great accessibility | Rugged aluminium frame | TSA-approved locks

We don’t like: Fairly heavy across the range | Not the largest set of cases

Sizes: Carry-on (36L), check-in medium (67L) and check-in large (87L)
Best colourways: Black Out and Silver
Max capacity: Up to 87L
Weight: 5.3KG

Travelling isn't always smooth, but so long as you're equipped with a quality suitcase you can tackle almost any mishap that may befall your journey. This is especially true when you're armed with a proper rugged case like the Ramverk Pro from DB. Built to last and sustainably produced, the aluminium frame combines with a polycarbonate shell that's both lightweight and sturdy, protecting your summer outfits while still giving the globe-trotting aesthetics that are most sought-after by travellers.

For storage, there are plenty of options to cope with a short weekend getaway to a two-week jaunt across the world, with a number of internal pockets to store laptops and vital documents. Dual TSA-approved locks assure you can travel at ease, knowing your luggage is safe, secure and well looked after. £549. At uk.dbjourney.com

TUMI McLaren Aero International Expandable 4 Wheel Carry-On

We like: Desirable collaboration | Removable suit carrier | USB charging port

We don’t like: Expensive | Garish colour scheme

Type: Tarpaulin soft-shell
Sizes: Cabin (40L), 30-inch (80L) and 36-inch (155L)
Best colourways: Neon yellow
Max capacity: 80L
Weight: 5.1KG

It comes as no surprise to see that Tumi's special McLaren edition suitcase is forged from premium materials, including durable carbon fibre, and a moulded front panel made from Tegris — an advanced composite material made from polypropylene tape woven into fabric and exposed to heat and pressure to form rigid sheets. Engineering tricks aside, it's a handy bit of kit too, with features like a removable suit/garment holder coming in particularly handy for business trips. Incredibly expensive, but a tantalising luxury option for those looking to splurge.

What we love about this one is that it comes with a USB port for charging your phone on the go. Something that's drastically underappreciated as you careen around the airport quicker than Lewis Hamilton at the end of the season. £1,625. At uk.tumi.com

Globe Trotter Centenary

We like: Beautiful design | Capacious storage | Huge range of colour options

We don’t like: Material is very easy to damage and scuff | Pricey

Sizes: Carry-on (40L), medium check-in (55L), large check-in and XL Trunk (122L)
Best colourways: Marmalade Orange
Max capacity: 40L
Weight: 4.2KG

It's giving Paddington Bear. It's giving early 20th century explorer. It's a gorgeous travelling trunk that's sure to turn heads across the globe. Globe Trotter's range is among our most sought-after cases simply because it's such a sophisticated set of luggage on the airport conveyor belt.

This particular case from the Centenary range is a perfect companion for that upcoming late-summer trip, with a huge cavern for storage, a sturdy chassis and beautiful vulcanised fibreboard with leather accents and a luxurious polished brass clasps to complete the sartorial gravitas you're likely hunting for. £1,495. At matchesfashion.com and globe-trotter.com

Amazon Basics 3-Piece Luggage Set

We like: Affordable price range | Study design | Prime next-day delivery available

We don’t like: Not the most luxurious set

Max capacity: 81.4L

The great thing about picking up luggage from Amazon's own-brand range of products is that there's an immensely affordable selection of bags, suitcases and luggage to keep costs down as you jet-set off on your hols. This three-piece range is the complete set, ready and waiting to cope with a two-week trip to some sunny nation, protecting all your gear and gliding through security with the 360-wheels.

And look, there's not a huge amount of luxury to be found here, it's ostensibly an affordable entry to travel, but if you're penny-pinching, you can grab this set on your Amazon Prime account and get free next-day deliveries, and if you're careful and plan ahead, there's more than likely a decent Prime Day deal to be found online to make it even cheaper. £159.99. At amazon.co.uk

Globe Trotter Golf Le Fleur

We like: Gorgeous colourway | Unique design | Spacious options

We don’t like: Scrapes and dents will show up on the colourway | Very luxurious

Sizes: Carry-on (37L) and large check in (83L)
Weight: 5.5KG

OK, this is definitely our favourite suitcase we've seen this year. In a brilliant sartorial collab between Globe Trotter and Tyler, The Creator, we introduce to you Gold Le Fleur. Just look at this thing, it's cute as a button, eye-catching but also delivers on the travel-worthy goods where it needs to. This collection is effortlessly unique, with hints of pastel colour splashed across the ivory exterior, giving that air of luxury that befits the mighty cost. £2,295. At matchesfashion.com and globe-trotter.com

Carl Frederik Scuderia AlphaTauri Carry-on

We like: Great design ethos | Secure built-in locks

We don’t like: Expensive | Relatively heavy on its own

Sizes: Cabin only
Best colourways: 1/1 limited edition in navy chrome with personalisable navy leather trims
Weight: 3.9KG

Opulence is given with Carl Friedrik luggage, which runs the gamut from high-end leather accessories and holdalls to long-trip check-in cases. Having teamed up with the formidable F1 racing team Scuderia AlphaTauri to design a carry-on fit for the road, the luxury brand proves it’s also in the business of adventure. This small-but-mighty suitcase is a frequent flyer’s dream: a steel-strong navy chrome shell, robust telescopic handles and silent spinning 360 wheels. What wins it the GQ Recommends gold, though, is its lightweight aluminium frame – durable enough to last a lifetime of jet setting, and forged with integrated combination locks for max security. From £365. At carlfriedrik.com

Antler Stamford large

We like: Pastel colourways | Lifetime warranty | Huge storage capacity

We don’t like: Pricey | Works best in a complete set

Best colourways: Khaki
Max capacity: 152L
Weight: 5.12KG

While Antler’s Stamford set is best bought as a luggage set so you can colour match, if you can get past the high price tag they are some of the best suitcases around. With whisper-quiet, rotating wheels, a lightweight polycarbonate shell and enough space to pack your entire wardrobe, this is a traveller’s best friend. Suave, lightweight and ready for the long haul. £270. At antler.co.uk

Rimowa Essential

We like: Ultra-luxe glossy design | Very sturdy

We don’t like: One of the most expensive options | Easily stained and marked

Sizes: small cabin to large check-in and trunks
Best colourways: White and Azure Blue gloss
Max capacity: 44L

The latest colourway in Rimowa’s hyped line of luxe spinner luggage, this supersized check-in suitcase is full of stand-out style. Does its white gloss shell defy conventional luggage wisdom? Maybe. Will it look the part in every one of your vacay snaps? Absolutely. More than just a picturesque partner for bright skies and sparkling blue sea, its practical polycarbonate outer resists scuffs and stains as well as being easily identifiable in the baggage claim queue. Inside, there’s plenty order, thanks to zippered dividers with adjustable compression straps. £795. At rimowa.com

Amazon Basics “Hardside”

We like: Affordable | Quick delivery

We don’t like: Not the most durable

Sizes: 20-inch, 24-inch and 28-inch
Best colourways: Black and navy
Max capacity: 39L
Weight: 3.3KG

Travelling this week but haven't got a case to hastily bundle your wardrobe into? Amazon to the rescue. Available with the e-tailer's next-day Prime delivery, these cost-effective cases in cabin-size, medium and large have all trips covered, no matter how last-minute you've left the packing. The fact that they're spacious, durable and super lightweight doesn't hurt, either. From £48. At amazon.co.uk

Antler Clifton Cabin with pocket

We like: A best-seller | Spacious | Storage space for a 15.6” laptop

We don’t like: Only one colour option

Best colourways: Matte black
Max capacity: 38L

For the man who works from anywhere, Antler’s Clifton Cabin suitcase is just as functional as it is chic. You won’t ever find yourself rummaging through socks and boxers at security, because its front compartment is cut with pockets designated for your tech. Easily unzipped for the liquids and laptops check, it securely stashes tablets, headphones and laptops of up to 15 inches within a protective padded sleeve. All encased in a matte-black hardshell that manoeuvres like a dream, thanks to multidirectional wheels and an ergonomically designed twist-grip handle. £220. At antler.co.uk & johnlewis.com

Carl Friedrik Compact Weekender

Type: Leather weekend bag
Sizes: Small only
Best colourways: Chocolate, grey or olive
Max capacity: N/A
Weight: N/A

A weekend away calls for a classy holdall, and it doesn’t come much better than Carl Friedrik’s ultra-luxe Compact Weekender. Made of sleek Nubuck leather, big enough for a change of clothes, a spare pair of shoes and your washbag , but we wouldn’t anticipate packing much more. Still, it’s stain-resistant, looks great and is our first choice for a 24-hour excursion. £395. At carlfriedrik.com

Eastpak Tranverz

We like: Huge storage capacity | Affordable

We don’t like: Massive | Not the most eye-catching colourways

Type: Nylon/polyester soft shell
Sizes: S, M, L
Best colourways: Kontrast Lime Pilot
Max capacity: 121L
Weight: 3.7KG

For adventure-based travels such as ski or cycle holidays, Eastpak’s cavernous Tranverz suitcase reigns supreme. What this suitcase lacks in the ultra-slickness of aluminium-framed Amex lounge-ready luggage, it more than makes up for with the seemingly endless pit of storage space in its double-decker internal compartments. Not only is it perfect for stowing any means of specialist kit, but when you’re not on the road, it’ll double as a convenient vessel for your out-of-season wardrobe. Be warned though, while you can set yourself apart with a striking colourway, the much-praised practicality of the Eastpak Tranverz means you'd be wise to go the extra step with a personalised luggage tag . From £175. At amazon.co.uk & eastpak.com

Antler Chelsea Packing cubes

We like: Handy storage cubes to make packing organised | Range of size options

We don’t like: No option for shoes

Type: Packing cubes
Sizes: 4.5 x 33 x 10cm (large), 33 x 17.5 x 10cm (medium) & 17.5 x 16.5 x 10 cm (small)
Best colourways: Black

Whatever kind of suitcase takes your fancy, to maximise the room within it you’ll want to invest in a set of packing cubes. Enter Antler’s Chelsea packing set, complete with smaller sizes for your undies and mesh windows so you can keep track of your packing list at a glance. Bordered with compression zips to keep your clothes tightly and tidily packed, they’ll double the number of pieces you have room for and bring as much order to your folding as Marie Kondo or any military man could. And when not in use on your travels, they’re a welcome addition to closets and drawers, thanks to a tesselating design that saves space anywhere you put it. £50. At antler.co.uk

Brunello Cucinelli Leather carry on

We like: Supremely handsome design | Telescopic handle and rotating wheels | Ultra-luxe

We don’t like: Ultra expensive | Only one size

Type: Leather
Best colourways: medium brown and mahogany brown

A handsome softshell with elegant appeal, designed in Italy for a lifetime of short-stay travels. Elevated by Brunello Cucinelli’s commitment to excellent craftmanship, this leather carry-on is the kind that looks better with age (think rich, tonal patina with a vintage charm) and will signal your fine taste in the first-class lounge. Lined with classic belt straps and gold debossed branded details, it stows your belongings in the utmost style, plus compresses down for easy storage in the overhead locker. A set of 360 wheels and a retractable handle add a contemporary utility to a timeless style you’ll treasure on many a business trip. £4,150. At matchesfashion.com , mrporter.com & matchesfashion.com

Beis 29 Check in Roller self weighing suitcase

We like: Stain-resistant | Weight-indicator included | Expandable

We don’t like: Quite heavy

Type: Polycarbonate hard shell
Sizes: 26 and 29-inch
Best colourways: Brown, Black
Max capacity: 112L

Is there anything worse than waiting with crossed fingers and bated breath at the check-in only to be hit with an overweight fee? Coming in clutch with clever self-weighing suitcases, Beis makes such blunders a thing of the past. Once you’ve filled the cavernous compartments of this expandable hardshell with your shirts, shorts and souvenirs for all the family, the scale on its top handle will indicate any overpacking. As if that wasn’t enough, it’s sewn with waterproof pouch pockets for your toiletries and compression clasps to ensure your possessions stay put, plus a hands-free bag hook for your duty-free shop. Max storage and max functionality – big yes. £269. At beistravel.com

We like: Lightweight | Vegan-approved | Comes with a premium laundry bag

We don’t like: Fairly bland design

Sizes: H5 (35L), H6 (65L) and H7 (90L)
Best colourways: Marine green, true red and dark olive
Max capacity: 65L

German smart-luggage brand Horizn Studios constructs its cases from aerospace-grade polycarbonate for (inter)stellar durability. But that's just the beginning. Its H5, H6 and H7 suitcases span the check-in friendly to the excuse me while I move overseas. Fitted with compression pads to maximise volume, its 360-degree spinner wheels are engineered in Japan, it has an in-built smart charger to keep your devices running during delays and it comes with a premium laundry bag to keep things organised on the other side. And if you're used to travelling a lot for work, the M5 boasts all the same features as the cabin variety, but with the addition of an exterior laptop and document sleeve. From £420. At horizn-studios.co.uk

Rimowa Classic

We like: Decent storage | Telescopic handle | Eye-catching, sturdy design

We don’t like: Very expensive | Heavy

Type: Aluminium hard shell
Sizes: Cabin S, Cabin, Check-in M, Check-in L, Trunk
Best colourways: Silver and navy
Max capacity: 72L
Weight: 5.7KG

120-year-old German manufacturer, Rimowa, was bought in 2016 by the brand-hungry LVMH and has since been given some hype CPR. Collaborations with Supreme, Dior and Off-White have turned fashionistas' heads, but it is the brand’s iconic aluminium flagship that will continue to impress long into the future. A suitcase built for a lifetime of use with a strong aluminium alloy shell, not only would be difficult to destroy even if you tried, it's also about as good-looking as luggage gets. From £850. At rimowa.com

We like: Bright colour range | Can add a built-in USB-Charger as an optional extra

We don’t like: Only enough for a seven-day trip | Small storage

Sizes: Carry-on, bigger carry-on, medium, expandable medium and large
Best colourways: White, navy, aluminium-edition silver and aluminium-edition rose gold
Max capacity: 47.9L
Weight: 3.4KG

Away’s range of suitcases really does have something for everyone, whether you’re a light packer who travels with the bare minimum or someone who prefers to cram in far too many outfits “just in case”. Suitable for anyone in the middle is Away’s Bigger Carry-On suitcase, which is compact enough to fit in an overhead bin but also has plenty of room for everything you need and more. The case is fitted with a laundry bag, interior compression system and has a durable shell and 360-degree wheels that make any connections easier than ever. And if your battery always seems to run out mid-journey, Away's suitcases also come with the option of a removable battery that can hold four phone charges. From £265. At awaytravel.com

American Tourister “Soundbox”

We like: Funky design | Eye-catching colourways

We don’t like: Cheap materials

Sizes: 55cm, 67cm and 77cm
Best colourways: Black, yellow and magenta
Max capacity: up to 110L

American Tourister was the brains behind one of the world's first-ever moulded suitcases. Continuing what it started, the luggage brand has come a long way since then, applying the technique to its Soundbox suitcase with a dynamic swirling pattern that gives it a half-and-half matte/gloss finish. The polypropylene it's made from is both lightweight and hard-wearing – a winning combination when it comes to suitcases – plus the shell of its smallest 55cm model can be expanded while still fitting airlines' increasingly stingy cabin-sized criteria. From £110. At amazon.co.uk

Briggs & Riley Baseline

We like: Expandable capacity | Built-in clothes folder | Durable | Lightweight

We don’t like: Low storage capacity overall

Type: Nylon soft-shell
Sizes: Carry-on, Medium, Large Expandable, Extra Large
Best colourways: Khaki Green
Max capacity: 49
Weight: 3.1KG

An American travel icon, Briggs & Riley debuted its all-new Baseline range in April '22 as a reimagined version of its flagship line. Alongside carry-on and checked luggage are totes, duffles, garment bags and toiletry kits for any travel need imaginable, but the stand-out piece has got to be the Essential Carry-On. Not only will it stow 30 per cent more than your average overhead luggage bin bag, thanks to one-touch CX compression expansion, but its tri-fold garment holder will neatly hold two suits without wrinkling and premium panels envelop clothing to reduce creasing, making it perfect for destination weddings. Available in three suave colourways, this kind of luggage is too good not to opt-in for the complimentary monogramming service. From £599. At briggs-riley.co.uk

Delsey Monacy

We like: Reasonably priced | Great colour options

Sizes: 55cm to 82cm
Best colourways: Blue
Max capacity: 55L

Delsey’s Moncey suitcases are a triple-threat when it comes to safety, robustness and manoeuvrability. Really though, the case's above-and-beyond security measures are what make it stand out from the rest on the luggage belt. Not only is it fitted with a central combination lock and TSA lock, but two additional locks at the top and bottom, plus an address door to the rear that should help locate your belongings all the faster should there be a dreaded airline mishap. A choice of five bright colours doesn’t hurt when it comes to locating it either, of which the vivid blue is our personal favourite. From £188. At amazon.co.uk

We like: Gold design is easy to spot on the carousel | Durable | Decent capacity

We don’t like: Heavy

Sizes: Cabin and Check-in
Best colourways: Olive green and gold
Max capacity: 61L

We’re embracing the ’70s in every facet of our wardrobes right now, and Floyd’s suitcases are an extension of the trend that’ll add some real panache to your vacay ‘fits. Its hardshell cases are retro in all the right ways – from the rich, shiny gold colourway to the typography of the logo – while the features are made for the 21st-century frequent flyer. Think 360° wheels, a TSA-approved lock and an interior with two handy separate compartments. Find us wheeling ours down the city streets of one of the destinations outlined in our must-visits guide for 2023. From £445. At matchesfashion.com

Samsonite Lite-Box

We like: Rugged, durable design | Built-in combination lock

We don’t like: Low storage capacity | Fairly heavy | Non-expandable

Sizes: 55cm, 69cm and 76cm
Best colourways: Silver
Weight: 4.7KG

Anodized aluminium is a suitcase luxury that borders on overprotective it's so sturdy, and beyond the durability capabilities of a hotel safe, it also looks incredible gliding through the departure lounge floor. Samsonite's latest release makes it look like you're travelling with a case full of neatly stacked fifties; an aesthetic that's amplified further still by its integrated TSA function locks and slick, silent wheels that barely make a sound. All that's left to do is breeze past the Pret queue, right into the first-class lounge. From £630. At johnlewis.com

Aerolite Super Lightweight ABS

We like: Stunning colourways | Ultra-durable | Affordable

We don’t like: Not particularly big

Sizes: Cabin (34L), Medium (82L) and Large (127L)
Best colourways: Wine
Max capacity: 34L
Weight: 2.6KG

Aerolite utilises a super-durable ABS hardshell to build suitcases that are made to last. The material is both strong and scratch-resistant, meaning it won't lose its lustre after the first trip you take it on, while a modest weight of 2.6kg for its cabin-friendly size means you'll pack plenty in it before coming close to your weight limit. Inside, handy storage solutions like a zipped divider and zipped mesh storage pocket make it a dream to pack for those who like to keep things organised on their holidays, while smooth, chunky exterior zippers make it all the easier to secure when you're nearing capacity. Aerolite's cases are also extremely easy to control thanks to four 360-degree spinner wheels and a double-tube retractable handle. £59.99. At amazon.co.uk

Travelpro Maxlite Air

We like: Very durable | Eco-friendly

We don’t like: Quite dinky | Expensive for the size

Type: Lightweight polycarbonate
Sizes: 55cm - 78cm
Best colourways: Ensign Blue

At only 2.6kg as a carry-on, Travelpro had every right to name this suitcase as it did. Crucially, though, the brand manages this feat without compromising any durability, engineered to flex on impact to keep safe from cracks, splits and punctures in transit. As an added bonus, for anyone conscious of the impact their wanderlust has on the planet, the lining inside is made entirely from post-consumer recycled plastic bottles, which should give you an extra eco-friendly spring in your step as you disembark on the other side. From £162. At travelpro.com

Nere Travel ‘Stori’ suitcase 55cm

We like: The vibrant colourways | Spacious | Hard-shelled four-wheeled suitcase | Reasonably priced

We don’t like: Not ideal for departure lounge wallflowers

Type: Hardshell
Sizes: Standard
Best colourways: Whilst aqua blue would be our pick, it also comes in a range of pastel and more head-turning hues
Max capacity: 46L

Oz's most infamously fashion-forward travel brand, Nere Travel's luggage will match any mood you can feel or adventure you can book. As the brand's most iconic suitcase, the Stori makes a perfect pick for quick jaunts to Europe or long car rides alike. Defined by the range's bold colour scheme, the Stori might be easy on the eyes, but it's its ABS hard shell and multi-faceted storage features mean that it's just as kind on your travel essentials. That, and it certainly won't go missing at baggage claim any time soon. £119. neretravel.co.uk

The North Face

We like: Massive capacity | Ultra durable | Built-in Sherpa strap

Weight: 4.4KG

On the sportier side of suitcases, The North Face goes all-in on space and function, creating bags with a reputation that's nothing short of iconic (see the instantly recognisable, multifunctional Basecamp). From the outdoor favourite’s Rolling Thunder range, this suitcase comes constructed from an ultra-durable tarpaulin that’ll stand up on long-haul and festival trips alike, with an upper capacity limit of 155L that could pretty much fit the contents of a minimalist room inside, or three weeks off the grid without the need to do laundry. And in its fluorescent yellow colourway, complimented by bright red wheels, this is function at its steeziest. £300. At thenorthface.co.uk

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The Best Carry-On Luggage and Weekender Bags for Spring Travel: Away, Samsonite, Calpak and More

The right luggage or carry-on bag for spring break travel can help make any trip as smooth as possible.

If you're gearing up for your spring travel plans, you may be searching for the perfect luggage to accompany you on your upcoming getaway. Carry-on luggage — including weekender bags and spinners — is probably the best way to travel if you want to beat the lines at busy airports, especially if you're traveling on a Friday.

No matter where your travel destinations are, one thing's for sure: the right luggage will make all the difference. We've found the best luggage to shop for all of your travels, from spacious duffle bags and practical backpacks to large and luxurious carry-ons for your next flight.

Need a new tote bag to toss everything in for an upcoming Memorial Day weekend getaway or a bigger carry-on for a tropical vacation? The Beis Weekender Bag will fit all your essentials and help you travel in style. Need a new go-to suitcase for every travel situation? Away’s standard carry on traveler bag has plenty of packing space while still fitting in the overhead bin. Trying to avoid the checked baggage fees and long bag drop line? The Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Luggage helps you save money and time by going straight to TSA.

Below, we've rounded up the best carry-on luggage and weekender bags this year to take along on your next trip.

The Best Carry-On Suitcases for 2024

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

Not only is the Samsonite Hardside Spinner perfectly sized and extremely durable, it's also incredible lightweight so you won't have to strain putting it in the overhead airplane compartment. With all kinds of pockets, you can easily organize all your belongings confidently.

$200 $150

Away The Carry-On

This Away bag boasts flashy features such as a durable polycarbonate hard shell, spinner wheels and a TSA-approved, ejectable USB charger. The classic rolling hardside luggage with a retractable handle is designed to fit in most major airlines' overhead compartments, making it a great go-to Carry-On bag for travel, regardless of your destination.

Take OFF Luggage Personal Item Suitcase 2.0

The perfect-sized luggage that doubles as a personal item — just pop off the wheels and slide it under your seat.

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

This Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage makes traveling easier by being extremely lightweight. While protecting your items, the wheels rotate 360 degrees for a smooth and seamless stride in the airport. Although it is compact, this carry-on luggage has the ability to hold everything you need for a short vacation.

Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Expandable Spinner

Travelpro is a pilot-founded brand that you've likely seen used by flight crews. Travel stress-free with the Travelpro hardside carry-on luggage that effortlessly fits in the overhead bins of major domestic airlines, thanks to rigorous sizer bin testing and enhanced packing capacity. The PrecisionGlide System delivers impeccable control and a seamless rolling experience, so you can get through the airport with ease.

$370 $314

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB Port

Compact and convenient, this soft-sided luggage can slide smoothly under the seat in front of you or be tucked away in an overhead bin. The bag's main compartment can fit several outfits and a spare pair of shoes. Interior pockets lining the compartment will keep your toiletries organized. The telescoping handle and rolling wheels make this bag easy to navigate around a crowded airport, making it a great choice for the frequent flyer looking to pack light.

$145 $100

Monos Carry-On

Traveling is a breeze with the minimalist Monos carry-on, designed to fit in the overheard bin of almost any flight.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

This Travelpro Maxlite softside luggage has spinner wheels and is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver airport terminals and your flight's overhead storage bins.

$170 $144

The Best Travel Backpacks and Totes for 2024

Samsonite detour travel backpack.

Built to protect your belongings from the elements, the Detour Travel Backpack has enough capacity for your business, overnight or weekend trips.

$150 $105

Béis Travel Tote

The Beis Travel Tote, from Shay Mitchell's baggage line, can conveniently slot into place atop a suitcase with its trolley sleeve, but can also be carried on its own with a detachable shoulder strap, and top handles designed to rest comfortably on your shoulder. This bag boasts a bottom zip shoe compartment, padded tech sleeve and multiple exterior and interior pockets.

Calpak Luka Backpack

With multiple storage compartments including a separate laptop sleeve and a space to store your shoes that has its own exterior access, this lightweight Luka backpack will help you stay organized on the go.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

This travel backpack comes with a weight-distributing, low-profile harness system and a 35L capacity, making it suitable for carry-on use. It is designed with a full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment, along with large and subdivided zippered mesh compartments on the sides, providing convenient packing options. Additionally, its attractive design ensures you can easily identify your bag wherever you go.

Troubadour Featherweight Tote

A modern classic and easy-access bag. This Featherweight Tote features a light and waterproof fabric with vegan leather handles, and is perfect for gym trips or a day out!

Dagne Dover Jemi Puff Tote

Whether you're traveling to work or a weekend getaway, this lightweight tote is perfect with pockets for days to keep all your belongings organized.

The Best Weekender Bags for 2024

Lululemon go getter bag 2.0.

This sleek, modern bag looks like a tote and duffel rolled into one. There's also a little strap in the back that you can attach to your luggage.

Away The Everywhere Bag

Away Travel's The Everywhere Bag lives up to its name: you can take it everywhere from work to the gym to a weekend away. It also pairs nicely with The Carry-On and The Bigger Carry-On.

Calpak Stevyn Duffel

Enjoy the benefits of a large bottom compartment, ideal for stowing shoes or enhancing the organization of your items.The roomy main compartment comes with interior pockets, ensuring you have plenty of space to store your belongings in a well-arranged manner.

SwissGear Apex Travel Duffle Bag

This duffle bag will come in handy during your next vacation. You can wear it multiple ways and it has reinforced sides to keep your belonging secure.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

For weekends away, this extra-large duffle includes a laptop sleeve, shoe bag and plenty of space for all your essentials.

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Reader's Digest

8 Best Carry-On Luggage Bags for Any Type of Trip

Posted: March 12, 2024 | Last updated: March 13, 2024

Best overall

July carry-on pro.

You can't go wrong with the July Carry-On Pro , which is considered among the absolute best carry-on luggage bags. This smart luggage is equipped with a handful of noteworthy features. Among them include a detachable padded sleeve (perfect for storing your laptop and other trusty tech and travel essentials ), a built-in hidden laundry bag (to keep clean and dirty clothes separated), a TSA-approved lock (for added security) and an ejectable battery (perfect for on-the-go charging). The exterior features a durable polycarbonate shell while the interior is equipped with a water- and stain-resistant nylon lining.

"Worth every penny," writes verified buyer Shon B. "Best carry-on I’ve ever owned. Rolls smoothly, has plenty of room and the detachable computer case is next level. The charging station is so convenient! Bought a second for my husband."

Bonus features like a detachable padded sleeve, TSA lock, ejectable battery and hidden laundry bag
Sleek and sturdy hardshell construction
Lifetime warranty
100-day free trial
Does not expand

Best budget

Canway 65l travel duffel bag.

This durable, do-it-all duffle bag from Canway is chock-full of functional features at a superb cost. In addition to its foldable and extendable design, the duffel also boasts several pockets (including ones solely designed for shoes) to stay organized. Its water- and tear-resistant material will last for years to come. Customers can choose from 10-plus color options—each for less than $40—so you can travel in style .

"This duffel bag has been on four or five trips with me since I bought it. EVERYTHING fits inside," writes Gillian , one of the 13,000+ five-star reviewers. "There are so many pockets that I've considered a necklace or two 'gone for good' until the bag made a reappearance for another trip. For air travel and quick weekend trips, the duffel bag holds up and things inside stay safe."

Extendable and foldable design
Padded straps provide added comfort
Multiple pockets for optimal organization
Durable water- and tear-resistant material
No wheels, so it can get heavy if you tend to overpack

Best for international trips

Briggs & riley international carry-on expandable spinner.

This Briggs & Riley luggage carry-on is expandable, providing up to 22 percent more packing space—making it a solid choice for longer international flights . It's also equipped with a built-in power bank and lock, both of which are TSA-approved. Its lightweight polycarbonate exterior offers resilience, too. Plus, the protective drawstring fabric bag helps keep your suitcase in top shape between travels.

Verified buyer Mari L. writes, "This is my second Briggs & Riley luggage. I wanted a carry-on and with no hesitation, I knew I wanted Briggs & Riley. This carry-on luggage expands to add more clothing and compress to its original size. I LOVE it!! I also love that you can place your portable charger and your phone outside of the luggage for easy access."

Designed for international travel
Expansion-compression system increases packing capacity
Mesh and zip pockets for optimal storage
Monogramming available
At nearly $600, this suitcase is a splurge
Limited color options

Best lightweight option

Monos carry-on plus.

The Monos Carry-On Plus suitcase is the epitome of the best carry-on luggage. Weighing just 7.38 pounds, this lightweight travel companion provides ample room for both lengthy journeys and quick getaways. It's equipped with exceptional details like a built-in TSA-approved lock, a sturdy telescopic handle, stylish vegan leather accents and whisper-quiet spinner wheels. Plus, the brand calls its polycarbonate shell "unbreakable," and its lifetime warranty ensures it'll last forever.

"Really love how sleek this suitcase is, both with the aesthetics and function," writes Gina R. in her five-star review. "Moving from an old-style suitcase, the maneuverability of this is a dream—quiet, smooth and balanced wheeling both upright and pulling at a tilt." (Speaking of, you can also check out our Monos luggage review .)

Lightweight (just 7.38 pounds)
100-day trial
Adjustable telescopic handle with four height settings
Ten colors and patterns
Aerospace-grade and water-resistant hard shell
No built-in battery

Best for over-packers

Beis the carry-on roller.

The Beis Carry-On Roller effortlessly combines style and functionality with its expandable design and built-in scale, making it an ideal choice for those who tend to over-pack . The scale allows you to weigh your luggage in advance, ensuring you avoid any hefty baggage fees . Meanwhile, the expandable design adds an additional two inches of packing space, allowing you to fit in more essentials. This best carry-on luggage pick also includes various pouches, perfect for organizing shoes, laundry and personal items.

"I bought this specifically for a 10-day trip to Japan that I wanted to do with just carry-ons and this was absolutely perfect!" writes verified buyer Grace C. "The expander was great for extra storage as I stocked up on souvenirs. I got a ton of compliments and looks at the airport and it was really nice to be easy to spot by my travel mates." To learn more, you can also check out our review . Pair it with the Beis Mini Weekender , and you'll be good to go.

Built-in scale helps you avoid overweight fees
Expandable design lets you pack more
TSA-approved lock
Water-resistant zipper tape
Nine fun color options
No power bank/battery

Best for long trips

Away the bigger carry-on.

Designed to maximize space , this Away suitcase is an excellent choice for longer trips. Its durable polycarbonate shell ensures the utmost protection for your belongings, while the interior compression system, multiple compartments and built-in laundry bag help you stay organized. With the added convenience of a TSA-approved lock, your items remain secure throughout your journey. Furthermore, this suitcase offers a range of beautiful color options, from charming baby blue to neon green and timeless basic black, allowing for a touch of personal style.

Verified buyer Beth P. writes, "The bigger carry-on was perfect for this overseas journey to Tuscany, including Rome and Florence. The bigger carry-on held five dresses, a ball skirt, six pairs of shoes, spare jeans, multiple tees, pool and loungewear plus all the foundational garments I needed!"

Spacious size is ideal for longer trips, but still fits in overhead bins
Built-in lock and laundry bag are added bonuses
Beautiful color options
USB charger costs extra

Best carry-on luggage set

Kenneth cole reaction chelsea luggage collection.

This Kenneth Cole luggage set includes a soft-sided carry-on and a matching backpack. Crafted with a stylish chevron-patterned fabric, both pieces are lightweight and fashion-forward. The tear-resistant interior provides an added layer of security for your belongings. The rolling Amazon luggage is expandable, allowing for an extra 1.5 inches of storage capacity. On the other hand, the backpack not only features a padded laptop compartment but also numerous pockets, offering hands-free convenience for storing personal items and in-flight essentials.

"Wife brought it to her office and her workmates were fawning over the design," writes Ken C. in his five-star review of this luggage set . "She loves how light it is, how the spinner wheels tackle terrains with ease and how it carries her heavy laptop and other stuff like a champ."

Two-piece set includes one soft-sided suitcase and a matching backpack
Stylish chevron design
Wet-garment pocket
Elastic clothing compression straps
Backpack loops over the telescoping carry-on handle
The suitcase's small size isn't best suited for longer trips or over-packers

Best underseat option

Samsonite underseat carry-on spinner.

As its name suggests, this soft-sided luggage from Samsonite easily slides under your airplane seat . Its best feature, however, is the built-in USB port, which allows for seamless on-the-go charging. The exterior pockets—located on the front and side—are perfect for storing smaller items (i.e., your wallet, ID, credit cards and keys). Meanwhile, the main compartment boasts a padded compartment for your laptop or other tech devices.

There are nearly 4,000 five-star Amazon reviews that rave about this underseat luggage . "I was skeptical that this rolling carry-on would actually fit under the seat in front of me in first class and was much pleased that it did even when three-quarters full," writes verified purchaser David P. Cole . "The key is to place it with rollers pointing toward you."

Compact size easily fits under the airplane seat
Built-in USB port
360-degree spinner wheels
Ergonomic push-button locking handle
Smart sleeve on back fits over most luggage pieces
Not as big as traditional carry-on bags

Why you should trust us

Our editors are frequent travelers of all types, from road trippers to frequent flyers. We're parents and pet owners, solo adventurers and weekend group trippers, and have used bags, backpacks and suitcases of all types to get us there. Through our travels, we've tested all of the top luggage brands in real-world conditions and ranked the best carry-ons, underseat bags, weekenders, luggage sets and affordable suitcases. We also regularly try out travel accessories like neck pillows, toiletry bags, packing cubes and luggage racks. In addition to our first-hand experience, we consult with experts in the travel industry to get their insider perspective and comb through countless customer reviews to gather even more intel.

What kind of carry-on luggage is best?

When it comes to the best carry-on luggage, the options are plentiful. Consumers can choose from hard shell luggage , soft-sided suitcases , underseat bags (which—you guessed it—are small enough to fit under the airplane seat), duffel bags (some with wheels, some handheld) and travel backpacks (which offer hands-free convenience). Ultimately, the choice is yours—though you should consider if you're packing for a cruise , long trip or short excursion.

What is a good carry-on luggage size?

Before choosing the best luggage carry-on size for you, there are a few things to consider. For example, if you're an over-packer (no judgment!) or have a longer trip coming up on the horizon, you may opt for an expandable bag. However, if you tend to pack fewer belongings—or have a shorter trip planned—then an underseat bag or duffle may work best. Also, keep in mind that each airline has different carry-on size restrictions .

About the expert

Iyanifa Shondra Cheris, Owner/Lead Explorer, BlackWillTravel.com

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Home > The Best 2 Week Russia Itinerary: What To See & Do In Russia

The Best 2 Week Russia Itinerary: What To See & Do In Russia

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Written by Campbell & Alya of Stingy Nomads. They’ve traveled together to over 30 countries globally, including Africa, Latin America, Asia & Europe.

For many travelers visiting Russia is an adventure on its own ; with huge countries like Russia, it’s often difficult to decide where to go, how to move around. This two-week Russia itinerary allows you to visit both must-see places and more off-the-beaten paths destinations in Russia.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Best Ways To Move Around Russia

Russia is a vast country for long-distance travel . We’d suggest flying, but budget airline options are quite limited in Russia – so be prepared to shell out some serious Russian Ruble. Also, if you are flying with a local airline, check for their luggage allowance, as it can vary.

For many tourists taking a train in Russia is a must-have experience, especially the Transsiberian or an overnight train from Moscow to St Petersburg . The train system is quite good in general for moving around Russia.

Taking a bus in Russia is also an option, but the costs for a coach are the same as for traveling by train for the same distance and the travel time might be a lot longer and buses, as you know, are much less comfortable.

Renting a car is not very popular for travelers to Russia, as it tends to be a bit of a hassle. There are always lengthy traffic jams, poor road maintenance, and random police inspections. So instead, look to get a private transfer service.

The Best Two Week Russia Itinerary

Day 1 – 3: st.petersburg.

Russia Travel Blog_Best Two Week Russia Travel Itinerary_Peterhof-fountains

Russia’s most beautiful and romantic city has a lot to offer, from top world art museums and stunning royal residences to nightlife and shopping.

The best time to visit St.Petersburg is in the summer months of June and July to witness famous White Nights when the city literally doesn’t sleep, and neither do you.

Public transport works quite well in the city with the Metro being the fastest and the easiest way of moving around. One metro trip costs 0,5 Euro. There are hundreds of accommodation options in the city, from hostels to B&Bs and fancy hotels.

St.Petersburg Highlights

The Hermitage Museum/Winter Palace: One of the top art museums in the world. It says if you stop at every item (painting, sculpture, or artifact) for 1 second, you’ll need years to finish. In summer, it gets hectic with thousands of people surrounding the main art treasures; Da Vinci, Raphael, Rembrandt’s paintings. Buy your ticket online; it’ll save you a lot of time staying in a long queue outside .
St. Isaac’s Cathedral: A stunning building crowned with a massive golden dome, inside it’s even more impressive. Not to miss the view from its colonnade, especially at night time.
Church Of The Savior On Spilled Blood : Probably the most famous and photographed building in the city. Built in the traditional Russian style with many, very similar to the famous St.Basil cathedral on the Red Square in Moscow . Do yourself a favor and go inside; you won’t be disappointed; the interior is impressive, richly decorated in gold, with many fresque paintings.
The Russian Museum: A great collection of Russian art from old icons to modern painting.
The Mariinsky Theatre: The main city theatre has three stages; the original one (Old Stage), the Concert Hall, and the Second (modern) stage. All three give performances; ballet, opera, Philharmonic orchestra almost every day.
Peterhof: The fountain residence and ex-summer royal residence built as a repetition of Versaille. An impressive palace with golden, hundreds of small and big fountains, a beautiful park, it’s a must-visit place. If you travel with children, they will enjoy a visit there are many joke fountains where they can get soaking wet. Just be sure to bring extra clothes and a towel with you.
The Catherine Palace and Park: Another ex-royal summer residence in the southern suburb of St.Petersburg. Catherine Palace is probably the most beautiful palace in the city. The main highlights are the famous restored Amber Room and the Grand Hall.

Russia Travel Blog_ Best Two Week Russia Travel Itinerary_St.Petersburg-White-Nights.jpg

White Nights and Drawing Bridges: These two are strongly associated with each other. White Nights is a fascinating phenomenon when the daylight is basically 24 hours. The shortest night, June 21, in St.Petersburg is less than 2 hours, but in fact , it never gets really dark. Summer is navigation season in the city, the Neva river gets quite busy, but it starts only at night when all the bridges are closed for traffic. The show of opening bridges begins with music and lights between 1 am, and 2 am; thousands of people, locals, and tourists watch it every day.
St.Petersburg Metro: Named one of the most beautiful metro systems in the world, and it deserves two hours of your time to explore. The most beautiful metro stations; Admiralteiskaya (the second deepest metro station in the world, 102m), Avtovo, Bukharestskaya, Kirovsky Zavod, Mezhdunarodnaya.

Day 4: Veliky Novgorod

Distance from St.Petersburg 195km takes 2h50min to get here by train.

Located between St.Petersburg and Moscow, the oldest Russian city, founded in 859, is definitely worthy of a day stop, especially for those who like history.

Veliky Novgorod is not a usual stop on any Russia itinerary, but it has many old churches and monasteries . The city is relatively small you can move on foot between the main attractions. To get from the train station take a bus, there is a bus stop in front of it.

You’ll notice that everything here is cheaper than in the capital cities; food, accommodation, souvenirs , and entrance fees. There are three of four hostels and quite a few hotels, both budget, and luxury , in the city.

Russia Travel Blog_The Best Two Week Russia Travel Itinerary_Novgorod-Kremlin

Veliky Novgorod Highlights

Novgorod Kremlin (Detinets): The oldest Kremlin in Russia.
St.Sophia Cathedral
Yuriev Monastery
The Millenium of Russia Monument
Vitoslavlitsy Museum Of Wooden Architecture

Day 5 – 7: Moscow

Distance from Novgorod 537km takes 8 hours to arrive by night train.

Crazy and bustling Russian capital city is a strange mix of everything; old-style Russian churches neighboring with skyscrapers of Moscow City. Moscow is famous for the terrible traffic; the Metro is the best way to move around the city , it’s cheap, 0,6 Euro per trip, and fast in the rush hours it gets hectic.

There are many hostels, B&Bs and hotels in the city for any budget , the most important thing is to find a place in the city center, or as close to it as possible otherwise you risk spending quite a lot of time commuting.

Russia Travel Blog_Best Two Week Russia Travel Itinerary_St.Basil-cathedral-Moscow.jpg

Moscow Highlights

Like any capital city, there are many things to do and places to see , to explore Moscow you’ll need a lot of time, but you’ll be able to visit its highlights in three days.

Moscow Kremlin: The most iconic building in Russia and one of the most famous in the world. The complex is big with a lot to see; Armoury museum, Diamond Fund, the Grand Kremlin Palace, Patriarch Palace, Ivan the Great Bell Tower, Assumption Cathedral, and more.
Red Square: Its name doesn’t come from the color as many people think; in old Russian, “red” (Rus. “Krasny”) meant “beautiful.” Most of the central city sights are located on the square. Tip. Come here early morning, at 6 am, and you’ll get the square all to yourself without the crowds.
St. Basil’s Cathedral: A favorite tourist attraction, its colorful domes and strange, vivid decoration contrast with traditional Russian churches found all over the city. It was built in the 16th century during the reign of Ivan the Terrible. City legend says that the cathedral architects were blinded to make sure they would not be able to build anything similar ever again.
The Tretyakov Gallery: The most significant collection of Russian art from to XX century. The building itself is fascinating.
The Novodevichy Convent and Cemetery: The convent was founded in 1524 by Vasili III; during its history hosted many ladies from the Russian royal family who were forced to take the veil.
Kolomenskoye: Located 12km from Moscow, this complex consists of many buildings representing different eras of traditional Russian architecture; the White Column of Kolomenskoye, the Wooden Palace, Church of John the Baptist, Church of Our Lady of Kazan, etc. This trip takes half of a day .
Moscow Metro: 212 stations with a total route length of 360km; it is the sixth-longest metro system in the world. But it is not just the size that is most impressive – it is also about its beauty. Some stations look like palaces. The most spectacular stations are Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya, and Ploshchad’ Revolyutsii. The best time to explore the Moscow metro is Saturday and Sunday morning.

Day 8 – 9: Kazan

Distance from Moscow 825km takes 11 hours to get by night train.

Kazan is very different from St.Petersburg and Moscow, and visiting it will give you a more complete picture of Russia.

The city is becoming a new tourist attraction in Russia; in the last years, its infrastructure was improved significantly with FIFA World Cup games taking place here, the city got a new stadium and even a new metro. However, it’s relatively small and has only ten stations.

Kazan has the largest Muslim population in Russia, an interesting place to come, a unique mix of European and Asian traditions and culture. Due to recent significant sports events, many hostels and budget hotels were recently opened in the city.

Kazan Highlights

Kazan Kremlin: Don’t be surprised, there is a Kremlin in every old Russian town. In fact, the Moscow Kremlin is one of the youngest out of all of them, although the most famous one.
Kul Sharif Mosque: The biggest mosque in Russia.
Millenium Park of Kazan
Epiphany Cathedral and The Bell Tower
Syuyumbike Leaning Tower

Day 10 – 12: Sochi

Distance from Kazan 2000km, there are three flights per week, duration 2h40min.

A subtropical sea city might be the last most people imagine when thinking of Russia.

The city is busy all year round; in summer, many locals come here seeking sea and sun; in winter, it welcomes ski and snowboard enthusiasts, mainly from the capital cities. The local infrastructure and hospitality service was improved quite a lot for the Winter Olympic Games.

There are many hotels and resorts in the city for holiday travelers, but it’s possible to find a hostel, price from 5 Euro per dorm bed. Chilling on the beach (though it’s rocky), swimming in warm water, hiking to the waterfalls , or exploring the nearby subtropical forest, all these you can do here.

Sochi Highlights

Sochi Botanical Garden
Olympic Sochi Park
Krasnaya Polyana
Aquapark Amphibius
Caucasian Biosphere Reserve

Russia Travel Blog_Best Two Week Russia Travel Itinerary

Day 13: Sochi to St.Petersburg, Train/Flight

The longest distance traveled on this trip , 2339km. A train journey takes almost two days, usually two nights and one full day. For a comfortable ride, take the Severnaya Palmira train; it has AC, wi-fi, personal power outlets, showers, hot water boiler, and includes a hot meal. A flight is a better option if you have some extra cash; there are three daily flights between two cities, duration 3h10min.

Day 14: St.Petersburg

On the last day, you can relax, do souvenir shopping , wander around the city or maybe visit more city attractions. As an alternative to the standard sights and tours, you can do a roof tour or visit one of the modern art museums , e.g., Street Art museum, Erarta.

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Russia Travel Planning Tips

To move around the country take night trains this way you save time by traveling at night and save money on accommodation. Night trains have bunk beds and are comfortable enough for sleeping.

In big cities Moscow, St.Petersburg, Kazan, Couchsurfing is quite popular if you’d like to get some insider tips and meet locals , it’s a great way to do it.

Buy train tickets online on the official Russian Railways website – it’s easy you can choose your seats and best price range, it’s easier than trying to explain all these at a ticket office.

Download Google Translator as it works well with Russian – English language combination and translates even written text if you scan it.

How To Get To Russia

Flying to russia.

This is the fastest way to get the most out of any Russia itinerary.

More than likely, your flight will arrive in Moscow as it has the best air connection with international destinations . If you have a connecting flight to catch in Moscow: make sure your arrival and departure airport are not the same. There are three airports in the city , and sometimes all operate local and international flights, and to commute between them is a nightmare even at night.

Your second option is to fly into St.Petersburg. Numerous international airlines arrive and depart there. If you have a choice, choose this one, as it’s an easier option. There is only one airport and to get to the city center by public transport only takes 30-40min.

Taking A Train To Russia

Several train routes connect St.Petersburg and Moscow with some European capitals; Helsinki, Berlin, Warsaw, Vienna, Prague, Tallinn; most of them depart once a week , except Helsinki and Tallinn, these go every day. Prices are between 30 Euro and 250 Euro, depending on the distance.

Russia By Bus

It’s an option if you come from one of the nearby countries; many buses connect St.Petersburg with Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Belarus . Bus tickets are usually relatively cheap, from 10 Euro.

Arriving To Russia By Sea

This option is basically limited to St.Petersburg; several cruises go to Scandinavian countries , Finland and Estonia, and make a stop here; ferries passengers are allowed to stay within St.Petersburg without a visa for 72 hours.

More Russia Travel Blogs

What’s So Great About Russia? Know Before You Go!
Traditional Food In Russia You have a Try

Comments (21)

thanks for sharing,pictures are really cool

I appreciate for your blog post, Thanks for sharing.

Nice Blog, I have been Russia in the month of August and I indeed such a beautiful country it is, will consider this to visit it again.

Nice Blog, I hope I have a chance to go to Russia.

Did any of your hotels register you during your stay ?

Yes, all of them had to back when I went – maybe rules are different now.

This two week experience is the finest experience for every new travelers who want to go for Russia. Thanks

This is a very nice itinerary that enables you to explore the country in just a few days. Thank you for giving us transport at a glance, this enables people plan better.

Really enjoyed this, thanks for the information you provided here!

Very nice Itinerary! It cover the best travel essential in Russia. Great Photography Too.

great blog…….i loved russia

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Vertoe Blog | Luggage Storage | Daily Storage

Luggage Storage Guide Moscow

by Swati Sharma | Jun 3, 2019 | Storage Guides | 0 comments

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Meet the on-demand innovation here. Short term luggage storage or left luggage services! Luggage storage is not just another on the go service, rather a revolutionary innovation in the field of convenience. Who doesn’t like to have safe and convenient instant luggage storage facility whenever required? And Vertoe knows it well. Vertoe offers a short-term luggage storage solution to meet your hourly or daily requirements to store your bags in Moscow.

On-demand luggage storage services allow you to find a nearby location to drop off your bags and start exploring. The perks of on-demand daily short term storage are endless. Without your bags, you can skip long security lines at tourist attractions. Walk into multiple meetings without dragging your suitcases during outdoor business visits. You can hop on the subway without getting death glares from everyone around you. Most importantly, you can explore and enjoy the city the way you want to without lugging your bags along! In short, you can earn baggage-free peace of mind and make the most of your time.

With Vertoe, it is easier than ever to find safe and affordable storage options around. Vertoe partners with local business owners and stores across the city so that you can easily find a luggage storage location just minutes away from where you may be exploring. Unlike typical luggage lockers, you won’t have to wait in long lines, face exponentially high fees, or walk with the insecurity of losing your valuables. Instead, Vertoe’s tamper-proof seals and insurance claim of $5000 is enough proof to assure you of keeping your bags safe and sound.

Vertoe Features

We at Vertoe take safety very seriously. We carefully vet each of our store locations comprehensively to ensure that your bags are always protected. Furthermore, we provide complimentary, unique, tamper-proof seals at our locations to keep the contents of your bags safe.

All of your items are insured up to $5000—the highest amount offered by any storage provider! Now you can explore the city without any worries at all.

Booking Online

Booking a storage location has never been easier! Simply find a location, enter in a time and date, and BOOK! With Vertoe’s responsive mobile optimized website without any need of downloading or installation of an app, you can find a storage location within 2 minutes of where you may be.

Pricing and Discounts

Luggage Storage rates start at $5.95 per day. Weekly bookings will receive a 15% discount for the whole booking. Monthly bookings will earn 30% off the final total. With this kind of affordability, you won’t have to worry at all about lugging your bags around the city.

Customer Service

We provide 24/7 customer service—feel free to reach out to us with any questions, comments, or suggestions anytime at [email protected] .

How to Book

Booking has never been simpler with Vertoe! Enter an address, date, and time to find various Vertoe storage options near you. Then, just drop off your bags at the location and lock them with a free, unique, tamper-proof seal provided at the location. You can come back to the location at any time to pick up your bags! Learn more about the booking process here !

Or click here to watch a video and find out how to book a Vertoe!

About this guide

This luggage storage guide will help you locate the best luggage storage locations at Moscow various tourist attractions and transit spots. This guide is specifically designed to help you with on-the-go convenience, with a compilation of other notable storage spaces. So read on and learn more about storage solutions through this storage guide!

Click here to receive up to 30% discount on your Luggage storage with Vertoe.

Left luggage options in moscow.

Here are some storage options available in the city for you to utilize. It is advised to call the storage centers beforehand and check exact pricing and availability. Booking these storage spaces in advance will always save you from last-minute changes in the plan.

Left Luggage at Transit Spots

Sheremetyevo Airport Moscow : Luggage storage facility is available at the Sheremetyevo Airport. The storage cost is 500 ₽ for up to 24 hours and for 2 days and longer, the cost is 250 ₽. The location of this baggage storage is at:

Terminal B, D, E, and F.

Moscow Belorussky Train Station : Automatic luggage locker facility is available at the Moscow Belorussky Train Station. Cost of luggage lockers is 100-200 Rubles for the first hour, 40-100 Rubles any next hour and 220-500 Rubles for 24 hours. The location for storage is at Cloakroom which operates 24/7.

Moscow Leningradsky Train Station: Luggage storage option is available at Leningradsky train station. The cost of storage is 170 Rubles/bag for 24 hours. The storage space is at the Cloakroom.

Left Luggage at Museums

Some museums do provide luggage storage facilities to the visitors for the convenience of having a historic, cultural and artistic insights luggage free. Below are the names of the famous museums in Bergamo. You can call beforehand and check for storage spaces, cloakrooms, or lockers availability for storing bags or other items at these museums:

State Tretyakov Gallery : The museum operates between 10 am to 6 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunda and remains open between 10 am to 9 pm from Thursday to Saturday.
Moscow Kremlin : The museum timings are between 10 am to 5 pm from Friday to Wednesday.
Kolomenskoye Historical and Architectural Museum and Reserve : Museum remains open all days between 9 am to 7 pm.
Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve : The museum timings are between 11 am to 6 pm from Tuesday to Friday, 11 am to 8 pm on Saturday, and 11 am to 7 pm on Sunday.
Armoury Chamber : The timings are between 10 am to 5:30 pm from Friday to Wednesday.

Left Luggage at Residences and Hotels

Leaving your bags with the hotels or AirBnBs you are residing in is the most convenient option to explore more in the city. There are high chances of these hotels allowing you to drop your bags, storing them back or front offices for a few hours. Hotels may or may not charge for storing your bags but the right way is to always tip the staff for this precious help. Make sure you do the prior bookings if they follow suit .

Have extended plans to explore more? Here are your luggage storage options from Vertoe available at all major cities :

San Francisco
Washington DC
Los Angeles
Philadelphia

Luggage Storage with Vertoe is your end need

Whether you’re a tourist or a local, we can all agree that Moscow is best enjoyed luggage-free. On-demand luggage storage will let you conveniently store your bags around the city so that you can explore the sights of Moscow the way you want.

Vertoe offers short-term luggage storage starting at $5.95 per item all throughout the city. Our proven technology will keep your bags safe while you enjoy a day of hassle-free fun! Vertoe’s on-demand luggage storage service is more convenient and affordable than typical luggage storage in Moscow. Whether you’re looking for hourly or daily storage, Vertoe has deals that will help you save your money so that you can spend it on the extravagances of Moscow.

Vertoe is committed to providing pleasant and seamless services to our users. We are there to answer every query and confusion. Therefore, below are a few answers to the most common questions you would like to know.

What are Vertoe locations?

Vertoe Locations are local shops that have extra space and want to help you store your items in a safe, convenient and affordable way. Each location is verified and trained by our team before being listed on the site.

I am interested in becoming a Vertoe Partner. How can I connect?

If you are interested in being a Vertoe Partner Location, just write to us at [email protected] (please give details like address, size of storage space, access, hours of operation, etc.) and our team will get back to you soon.

Is Vertoe safe?

Each Vertoe location is manually verified for safety and trained by our team before being listed on the site. Upon arrival, we give you uniquely coded tamper-proof seals for your bags which is provided free. To give you that extra peace of mind, every booking is covered by a $5000 insurance.

What if I wish to change your location, dates, and number of items?

We understand that there can be some changes at the last minute. Feel free to write to us at [email protected] and we will take care of you. Note – some changes may result in partial refunds or extra charge on your card as your final booking amount may change.

What are the acceptable items for storage?

You can store most items as long as they are safe and legal. They must also be accepted by the partner at our verified Vertoe Location.

Please note that our partners at Vertoe Locations have the authority to check your baggage in case he/she suspects you of carrying any illegal items. In some cases, the partner may ask you to show the items in your bag and if they are not satisfied, they may completely refuse you service. We will fully refund your booking fee in such cases.

Can I send someone else to pick or drop my belongings?

We understand that such situations may arise but we also want to ensure safety and security of stored items. In such cases, please send us a note at [email protected] and also, to the email address of the Vertoe Partner (mentioned in your booking confirmation page) giving written permission to your authorized representative to pick up or drop off your items. Please make sure to share the email address and valid photo ID number of your representative, so our location staff can cross-check upon arrival.

What is the maximum duration for storing my items?

You can store your bags from a few hours to as long as you want. Check out our Pricing page for more details.

How do I cancel my reservations?

Last minute changes happen and we understand that. You can cancel your booking anytime to get a full refund. To cancel, just drop a message to [email protected] and we will take care of your request.

Make sure to check out our Boston City Guide for tips on what to see, where to eat, and more!

Going somewhere else? We’ve got you covered! Check out our storage guides for Chicago, Boston, Miami, and more!

Luggage Storage Guide New York City
Luggage Storage Guide Boston
Luggage Storage Guide Chicago
Luggage Storage Guide Miami
Luggage Storage Guide San Francisco
Luggage Storage Guide Philadelphia
Luggage Storage Guide Los Angeles
Luggage Storage Guide Seattle
Luggage Storage Guide Washington DC
Luggage Storage Guide Paris
Luggage Storage Guide London
Luggage Storage guide Porto
Luggage Storage Guide Hong Kong

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, what you need to know to watch monday's total solar eclipse.

The NPR Network

A stunning celestial event is visible across the country Monday, when the moon crosses directly in front of the sun: a total solar eclipse. For those in the path of totality, there will be a few brief moments when the moon completely covers the sun and the world becomes dark.

Traveling for totality? Skip ahead.

This will be the last chance to catch a total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. for about 20 years, so here's what you need to know to safely enjoy!

When is the eclipse?

April 8, 2024 there will be a total solar eclipse that crosses from the Pacific coast of Mexico through the United States.

What is totality and why it matters

According to NASA , totality will start around 11:07 a.m. PDT/1:07 EDT in Mexico and leave Maine at around 1:30 pm PDT/3:30 pm EDT.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

Check out this table for when the partial eclipse and totality are visible in each region or check by zip code here.

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across the contiguous United States, so even if you're not directly in the path, you should be able to see something special, weather permitting.

Unable to get to totality? We'll be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you can't see it in real time.

Where to see totality?

More than 30 million people live in the path of totality for Monday's eclipse, and many more in nearby areas.

Here's what we know about Monday's weather forecast.

Why totality matters

As NPR's Neil Greenfieldboyce explains , "During a total eclipse, the sky darkens suddenly and dramatically . The temperature drops. Stars come out. Beautiful colors appear around the horizon. And the once-familiar sun becomes a black void in the sky surrounded by the glowing corona — that's the ghostly white ring that is the sun's atmosphere."

Eclipse Science

For april's eclipse, going from 'meh' to 'omg' might mean just driving across town.

A partial eclipse, while still a fun experience, is hardly as dramatic. Those with a view of the partial eclipse will see crescent-shaped shadows like those seen here in 2017.

How to watch safely

If you plan to look directly at the eclipse (partial or totality), you're going to need eclipse glasses handy because looking directly at the sun without proper protection ( traditional sunglasses don't count! ) can be harmful to your eyes.

The perfect celestial soundtrack to the total solar eclipse

As NPR's Joe Hernandez explains, "Proper eye protection must be worn throughout a total solar eclipse — except for the roughly 3 1/2 to 4 minutes when the moon fully obscures the sun, a brief period known as 'totality.' (You will need to take your glasses off during totality to actually see it.)"

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses, you can get crafty with things you have around the house ( like some of us did back in 2017!) More on that here.

Traveling for totality?

The celestial event is driving a ton of domestic travel to the path of totality. If you're headed out of town to view the eclipse, here are some NPR Network resources for areas in the path of totality:

Texas The path of totality crosses through the Lone Star State, with some areas expecting a possible influx of visitors in the hundreds of thousands to catch prime viewing. Our member stations across the state have gathered local resources to help you navigate the region and the eclipse!

San Antonio: Check out the latest from Texas Public Radio
Dallas: Explore KERA's coverage for the latest
Austin: Head to KUT for the best local resources

Arkansas The eclipse will be cutting through the state, putting Little Rock in the path of totality. Check out Little Rock Public Radio for local resources.

The southwestern edge of the state will be well-positioned to witness the total solar eclipse this year. Kentucky Public Radio is covering the eclipse throughout the region, from Kentuckiana eclipse mania to the University of Louisville's free class about the celestial event. Keep an eye on WKMS for the latest local updates.

Missouri The southeastern corner of the state will be in the path of totality, crossing across towns like Whitewater and Ste. Genevieve. Head to St. Louis Public Radio for local coverage and resources. Illinois Carbondale seems to have won the eclipse lottery, being in the path of totality both in 2017 and for this year's eclipse . For resources from across the state, check out Illinois Public Media .

Indiana A huge portion of the state will be within the path of totality, giving cities across Indiana, including Bloomington and Indianapolis, prime viewing of the eclipse.

Bloomington: Check out Indiana Public Media
Indianapolis: Head to WFYI for the latest
Fort Wayne: Just north of the path of totality, WBOI has resources for the Allen County area

Ohio The Buckeye State is getting bisected by this year's path of totality, plunging a number of the state's most populous areas into darkness for a few minutes on Monday.

Cleveland: Head to Ideastream Public Media for the latest.
Columbus: With the capital city just south of totality, head to WOSU for regional resources.
Cincinnati: Totality will just miss the border town. Here are some tips from WVXU on how to navigate the eclipse in the region.

Pennsylvania Only the northwestern-most corner of the state will catch totality, with views from the lakeside in Erie being particularly well-positioned for a stunning viewing experience. WESA has more from across the region.

Plan to watch the eclipse from a wild mountain summit? Be ready for harsh conditions

New York Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Plattsburgh will fall under the path of totality on Monday. If you're planning to travel to the region for the best views, here are some local resources to stay safe and informed:

Buffalo: Head to WBFO for the latest
Syracuse: WAER has more on plans in the Salt City
North Country: NCPR has the latest from across the region, as well as information on local viewing events to check out

Vermont The Green Mountain State will see totality across its most populous region, including Burlington and Montpelier, as well as the Northeast Kingdom on the Canadian border. Vermont Public has everything you need to know to navigate your time in the region to enjoy the eclipse safely. New Hampshire The northernmost region of the Granite State will be in the path of totality, providing prime viewing to those in Coos County. NHPR has info on local events, travel updates as well as special coverage with New Hampshire Public Television. Maine The last state in the path of totality in the U.S., much of Northern Maine will be positioned for prime viewing. The rural region is preparing for an influx of visitors, and safety officials are encouraging visitors and locals alike to be prepared. Maine Public will be covering the eclipse and has everything you need to know to navigate the region safely.

How to document the eclipse safely

With the ease of cell photography , it can be tempting to reach for your phone to document the eclipse and the moments of totality, but make sure to do so safely.

As NPR's Scott Neuman explains , "For starters, you'll need to wear eclipse glasses or similar protective eye gear while aiming your camera or even just observing the eclipse."

Feeling ambitious? Here are a few more tips.

Or if you're not inclined to capture the moment visually, you lean into some other forms of creative expression. Indiana, for example, has named Linda Neal Reising the official poet in the state for this year's eclipse.

As former NPR reporter and eclipse superfan David Baron shared with Life Kit , viewing totality "[is] like you've left the solar system and are looking back from some other world."

So consider focusing on being present in the moment to enjoy the celestial spectacle.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans? Check out these kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides from Vermont Public's But Why, and this great explainer from KERA Kids on the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse.
Want to see how a solar eclipse alters colors? Wear red and green on Monday
Plan to wander into the wild for the best view? Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
Tips from Bill Nye on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time. NPR's Emily Alfin Johnson compiled these resources.

2024 eclipse

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