best travel bags in canada

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Do you like to travel? If you do, you’re probably familiar with the fact that your suitcases can go through a lot during your trip, especially if you’re enjoying airline travel. Broken wheels, tears, failing zippers, and busted seams are a few of the most common ways a suitcase can fail to do its job. If you’re preparing for your next (or first!) trip, the right luggage can make all the difference.

Hard shell cases will hold up better against the “respectful handling” from airline workers, but soft shell cases are more flexible for people who feel that packing light is more of a suggestion than a rule. If you’re upgrading from a duffel bag, the wheels and extendable handle on a suitcase will 100% change the game.  

After all this, we completely understand if you’re ready to buy a suitcase right now. They are must-haves for travel, but you’ll need to keep some things in mind before committing to the first design you see. Suitcases are not created equal. You’ll need to think about the weight, size, material, hard vs soft shell, number of wheels, number of storage compartments… the list goes on.

This comprehensive guide will investigate the best luggage and suitcases in Canada in 2024 and outline the criteria you should consider while making your purchase decision. Let’s dive right into our top five products.

The Best Luggage & Suitcases Right Now

Top Suitcase Pick : Samsonite FreeForm Spinner Carry-On

Upgrade Suitcase Pick: Monos Carry-On

Budget Suitcase Pick: Amazon Basics N989 20-Inch Hardside Suitcase

Top Hard-Side Luggage Pick: Delsey Helium Aero 29-Inch Expandable Spinner Trolley

Top Soft-Side Luggage Pick: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Suitcase

Our Top Pick for The Best Suitcase

Samsonite freeform spinner carry-on review, what we think of the samsonite freeform spinner carry-on.

What are the hallmarks of excellent carry-on suitcases? Lightweight? Yes. Integrated combination lock? Yes. Built-in ID tag? Yes. Durable exterior? Of course, yes. The Samsonite FreeForm Spinner Carry-On has all of these things and more. They’ll guarantee your bag will be securely closed and identifiable no matter what mode of travel you’re using.

As if those features aren’t enough, this suitcase also rolls around on four double wheels to make sure you never get stuck, and you won’t ever have to fight with it, even on rougher surfaces. Inside the suitcase, you can organize your things into two different compartments and store your smallest items in the little zippered pocket to make sure they don’t get lost.

Unfortunately, not even our top pick can be free of flaws. The size is too large to be used as a carry-on with some low-cost airlines, so please don’t forget to check the guidelines of your most-used airline before you buy! We also have a love-hate relationship going on with the top-facing combination lock. It’s great since you can make sure it’s secure all the time, but it is a bit more awkward to open when it’s lying flat on the floor.

What Reviewers Are Saying About the Samsonite FreeForm Spinner Carry-On

Reviewers love the Samsonite FreeForm Spinner Carry-On. The wheels move well on every surface they’ve encountered, and the shell is super durable for every type of travel. It’s lightweight enough for kids to use as their personal suitcase, too. People have mixed feelings about the lock placement, though. It’s on the top instead of the side, and some people love it, but others don’t.

Samsonite FreeForm Spinner Carry-On Specifications

Carry-On or Checked: Carry-on

Dimensions: 21.25” x 15.25” x 10”

Weight: 6.5 lbs

Colour: White, sage green, black, white/grey, or amethyst purple

Hard or Soft Shell: Hard

Number of Wheels: 4

Expandable: Yes

Warranty: 10 years

Samsonite FreeForm Spinner Carry-On Pros and Cons

One of the most lightweight suitcases available

Has an integrated TSA-approved combination lock

Comes with a built-in ID tag

Has two interior pockets, one with mesh screen and one with adjustable web straps, plus a pocket for small items

Too large to be a carry-on for some airlines

Lock is located on top of the suitcase which may be awkward for some people

Our Final Thoughts on the Samsonite FreeForm Spinner Carry-On

Performance: 5/5

Usability: 4.5/5

Quality: 5/5

Overall, the Samsonite FreeForm Spinner Carry-On is the perfect fit for all of your travel needs on shorter trips. The top-facing lock may be an adjustment for you, but as long as you check your airline’s guidelines before flights, this carry-on suitcase won’t give you any trouble.

$249 on Amazon Canada

$360 on Samsonite Canada

Our Upgrade Suitcase Pick

Monos carry-on review, what we think of the monos carry-on.

We love the Monos Carry-On. Have you ever heard of a 100-day trial for a suitcase? Well, you have now. If you don’t love the suitcase after 99 days, you can send it back for a full refund. We doubt you’ll want to, though. This hard shell option comes in 13 gorgeous colours to stand out in any suitcase crowd, and the integrated lock keeps your belongings secure.

A few features absolutely wowed us. A compression pad is included for one half of this suitcase, helping you keep your belongings flat and skip the step of sitting on your suitcase to get it closed. The telescopic handle can be set to four different heights, too, so you can find your most comfortable towing position no matter how tall you are. The lock button is placed underneath for a seamless design and easier pressing.

As much as we’d love to go on and on about the advantages of this suitcase, there are a couple of potential low points to mention. You won’t be able to expand this suitcase to accommodate more items, so what you see is really what you get. Also, the handle can become a bit tricky to move if you have too many things stuffed inside.

What Reviewers Are Saying About the Monos Carry-On

Reviewers are completely in love with the Monos Carry-On. Even though it is the company’s most basic carry-on option, the quality of the design is unbeatable. The zipper colour even matches the shell colour! People really enjoy how customizable the handle length is, and every feature is noticeably well thought out. The integrated combination lock, the compression pad, the button placement on the underside of the handle… everything is spectacular.

Monos Carry-On Specifications

Dimensions: 22” x 14” x 9”

Weight: 7 lbs

Colour: 13 options

Expandable: No

Warranty: Lifetime + 100-day trial

Monos Carry-On Pros and Cons

Wheels are incredibly quiet and move well on every surface

Has an integrated TSA-approved combination lock for security

Telescopic handle is very sturdy and can stop at 4 different heights

Has two interior components (one with mesh screen, one with web straps and a compression pad) plus a small zippered pocket

Handle will not move well if the suitcase is over-filled

Doesn’t expand

Our Final Thoughts on the Monos Carry-On

Usability: 5/5

Overall, the Monos Carry-On is the most advanced suitcase you’ll find in this size range. It’s more expensive than the average suitcase, but its lifetime warranty, build quality, and user-friendly features make it an easy choice if you’ve got the extra cash (or some time to save up for it).

$285 on Monos Canada

Our Budget Suitcase Pick

Amazon basics n989 20-inch hardside suitcase review, what we think of the amazon basics n989 20-inch hardside suitcase.

In the suitcase world, the Amazon Basics N989 20-Inch Hardside Suitcase is the best of the best for affordability. The extra-thick ABS material of the hard shell does a lot to kid-proof, airline-proof, and drop-proof this suitcase. No matter how much stuff you jam inside, the lightweight design will keep your luggage manageable.

If you don’t need to worry about airline restrictions, you can expand this suitcase for an extra 15% of packing space. In other words, you can pack an extra pair of shoes (or two). The interior of this suitcase is split into two even sections, so you can easily find your items and stay organized. The 4-wheel design will help you stay comfortable while walking around, too. There’s a lot of value in this budget option!

Of course, all the value has to be paired up with some downsides. Although the 4-wheel design is a great addition, they are pretty low quality, so you may struggle to move smoothly on carpet and similar surfaces. The handle isn’t the most stable thing on the planet either, so you’ll want to use a little extra care when you start moving.

What Reviewers Are Saying About the Amazon Basics N989 20-Inch Hardside Suitcase

Reviewers have mixed feelings about the Amazon Basics N989 20-Inch Hardside Suitcase. Some people learned the hard way that not all international airlines will accept this as a carry-on size. The wheels and handle aren’t the best quality, either. People do enjoy how lightweight it is, though, and it’s quite durable. The interior design keeps things organized, which is a big bonus.

Amazon Basics N989 20-Inch Hardside Suitcase Specifications

Dimensions: 21” x 9.5” x 13.6”

Weight: 7.3 lbs

Colour: Orange, black, light blue, or navy blue

Warranty: 3 years

Amazon Basics N989 20-Inch Hardside Suitcase Pros and Cons

4-wheel design takes all the pressure off your hand and arm when moving

Can expand to provide an extra 15% of packing space

Extra-thick ABS shell is scratch-resistant and durable

Wheels aren’t very high quality and suitcase may be difficult to move on carpet and other surfaces

Handle wobbles when pushing the suitcase

Our Final Thoughts on the Amazon Basics N989 20-Inch Hardside Suitcase

Performance: 4/5

Quality: 4/5

All in all, the Amazon Basics N989 20-Inch Hardside Suitcase is the absolute best you can do for a suitcase under $150. Its wheels and handle might not be the sturdiest things ever, but the suitcase itself is built to withstand rough treatment and offers a great interior for staying organized during travel.

$129 on Amazon Canada

Our Top Hard-Side Luggage Pick

Delsey helium aero 29-inch expandable spinner trolley review, what we think of the delsey helium aero 29-inch expandable spinner trolley.

There are a lot of things we like about the Delsey Helium Aero 29-Inch Expandable Spinner Trolley. It provides the absolute most space you can possibly get in checked-size luggage, and the dual-compartment design is the best for keeping your belongings organized and accessible. The double spinner wheels do a great job of keeping all that stuff moving along.

If you’re paranoid like us, you’ll love the integrated combination lock that keeps your zippers closed tight—it prevents theft and other baggage mishaps. Losing items is everyone’s worst nightmare, after all. If you’ve ever had a suitcase with a polycarbonate shell, you already know just how durable they are. Nearly indestructible, in fact.

No product is perfect, but we don’t think any of these shortcomings will be deal breakers. The large size of this option means you can easily exceed airline weight limits if you aren’t paying attention to what you’re packing. The hard surface is also easily scratched, so it won’t keep its picture-perfect style for long. Plus, the handle is not the most committed to working—it deserves a “handle with care” sticker.

What Reviewers Are Saying About the Delsey Helium Aero 29-Inch Expandable Spinner Trolley

Reviewers are pretty impressed with the usefulness of this suitcase. The dual-wheel design helps this suitcase glide like butter over all types of surfaces (even cobblestones!), and aside from some scratches, people aren’t running into any durability issues at all. The combination lock is a nice touch, too. The main red flag people keep mentioning is how easy it is to go over airline weight limits.

Delsey Helium Aero 29-Inch Expandable Spinner Trolley Specifications

Carry-On or Checked: Checked

Dimensions: 19.5” x 12.5” x 29

Weight: 12.5 lbs

Colour: Platinum, black, blue, red, teal, or peony

Delsey Helium Aero 29-Inch Expandable Spinner Trolley Pros and Cons

Polycarbonate shell is extremely durable and resistant to cracking

Interior has two fully-lined pockets, one with webbing straps and one with a full mesh zipper cover

Double spinner wheels rotate 360 degrees

Handle durability may be an issue if you travel a lot

Will show scratches/scuffs pretty quickly

Our Final Thoughts on the Delsey Helium Aero 29-Inch Expandable Spinner Trolley

All in all, the Delsey Helium Aero 29-Inch Expandable Spinner Trolley is a great choice for extra-long trips, especially if you’re travelling by car and don’t need to be concerned about weight limits. It may show scratches and scuffs fairly easily, but the actual body is nearly indestructible.

$214 on Amazon Canada

Our Top Soft-Side Luggage Pick

Travelpro maxlite 5 softside expandable suitcase review, what we think of the travelpro maxlite 5 softside expandable suitcase.

Do you love exterior access to your belongings? Or an adjustable handle? Or a well-balanced extension? If you answered yes to any (or all) of the above, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Suitcase is your dream come true. Two exterior pockets keep your important documents and items handy, the handle matches your height instead of the other way around, and the tip-proof extender keeps your suitcase upright—important, right?

One of our favorite things about this suitcase is the wheels. The 4-wheel design is a lifesaver when you have a heavy load, and the unique shape of the wheels keeps it rolling along over all of the bumps and cracks you may come across. We’re also a fan of the lifetime warranty—this might be the last suitcase you ever need to buy!

Unfortunately, we do have a couple of minor issues that we have to share with you. Although the soft shell style is great for packing the absolute most, it is more vulnerable to tears and exploding seams than other suitcases. Also, since the lining is made of recycled plastic (kudos for saving the environment) you may have to deal with an icky smell for a few days.

What Reviewers Are Saying About the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Suitcase

Reviewers are incredibly happy with the quality of their Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Suitcases. A couple of people haven’t been thrilled with the smell of the lining, but this isn’t a very common complaint. In general, people enjoy the comfortable handle and the large capacity. The highlight feature for most people is how well the wheels move—the suitcase almost pulls itself.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Suitcase Specifications

Dimensions: 27” x 18.5” x 11.5”

Colour: Black

Hard or Soft Shell: Soft

Warranty: Lifetime

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Suitcase Pros and Cons

360-degree swivel wheels move easily on all surfaces

Contoured PowerScope handle can stop at both 38” and 42.5”

Outfitted with two exterior pockets, a mesh interior pocket, two carrying handles, and adjustable hold-down straps

Expands by 2” with tapered shape for extra packing room without risk of tipping over

Soft shell design is vulnerable to damage

Recycled plastic lining material may smell for multiple days after opening

Our Final Thoughts on the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Suitcase

Quality: 4.5/5

Overall, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Suitcase is a nearly flawless option. The fabric exterior is more vulnerable to damage than hard-side suitcases, but it is perfect for fitting absolutely everything on your packing list. It moves easily on every surface and has pockets for everything.

$208 on Amazon Canada

How to Properly Choose Your Luggage/Suitcase

You’re likely going to be checking the price first. Luckily, most suitcases are listed under $250. You can find some options for under $150 if you’re really serious about saving.

Hard vs. Soft Shell

Hard shells give you extra protection against damage—a must if you’re a frequent airline traveller (we all know why)—and soft shells offer more flexibility for extra items. The choice is yours.

Expandable Compartment

Extensions are everything when it comes to suitcases. Whenever you need to throw in an extra pair of shoes, a just-in-case sweater, or any other last-minute additions, an extendable compartment can save your trip.

Number of Wheels

Many suitcases come with four wheels, but some only have two. If you want to do the least amount of work possible when moving your suitcase, a 4-wheel option should be your number one priority.

Disclaimer: The prices displayed are accurate at the time of publication. We’ll do our best to keep them as up-to-date as possible, but you may see slight changes. The products in this list are ranked by independent third parties. Rankings are based on both reviews and independent testing.

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The Best Travel Bags for Wherever You’re Headed

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

Best Carry-On for Most People Travelpro Maxlite 5 Read more

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On Away Carry-On Read more

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On Yeti Crossroads 35L Read more

Best Bag for a Lifetime Briggs & Riley Baseline CX Read more

Whew! You've made it all the way across the globe. But have your toothbrush, pajamas, and running shoes made it, too? If you're a frequent traveler, it's easy to obsess over the logistics of getting your stuff clean, organized, and in good working condition upon arrival. Paying for a decent travel bag and a few useful accessories means buying a little peace of mind, especially when a few yards of zippers and some nylon are the only barriers between your precious belongings and the belly of an airliner.

Whether you're slinging a duffel into a car trunk for a weekend trip or packing for a whirlwind jaunt across Asia, we've got you covered. Need a bag for your passport or groceries? Don't forget to check out our other guides, like the Best Laptop Backpacks and the Best Recycled Bags , for more picks.

Updated April 2024: We reorganized this guide and added new picks, such as the Yeti Crossroads, Tom Bihn Aeronaut and Trinity, the Frame Carry-On Max, the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, the Camelbak A.T.P. 20, the Calpak Luka Duffel, and the Rux 70. We also updated the information on sizing and checked links and prices.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED. com. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Best Carry-On for Most People

Look around any airport—if you see flight attendants or pilots, they will probably be rolling around a Travelpro suitcase. We like Travelpros because you get a lot of bang for your buck. They're durable, light, and not too expensive.

For only a little over $100, the Maxlite 5 is one of the more affordable Travelpro suitcases, and at 5.4 pounds, it's very light! The exterior toiletry pocket is a nice touch for when you go through security and need to take out your liquids, and the zippers are also quite strong and don't tend to get stuck. The wheels also rolled nicely on both the spinner and roll-aboard versions. Reviewer Matt Jancer did note that the aluminum handle extensions did sometimes stick and the main grab handle on the bag is only single-stitched, which may cause durability issues farther down the line. However, he has seen no issues yet. This probably the best bag you can get in the $100 to $150 price range.

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On

Away's business practices may have raised some eyebrows , but there's no denying that this company changed the travel market entirely. It has increased in price since we first tested it, but multiple WIRED staffers still use the classic Away hard-shell carry-on ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) as their travel suitcase.

Hard-shell suitcases tend to be heavier. There's also not as much give in the case, so you may find it hard to squeeze in more items than in a soft-shell bag, bu they look a lot sleeker than their soft-shell counterparts and protect fragile items better. The Away weighs 7.5 pounds, which is pretty standard for a hard-shell carry-on. When I tested it, I liked that it had multiple height settings and that the polycarbonate shell wiped clean and stayed mostly scuff-free (it helped that my tester was in the darker navy color). Away's suitcases also come with a built-in TSA-approved combination lock, four spinner wheels capable of rotating 360 degrees, and an included laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate from the rest of your stuff. The handle did feel a bit wobbly, though.

★ Alternatives: So many companies now offer a direct-to-consumer, stylish, hard-shell carry-on similar to the Away's. We've tried ones by Monos ($255) and July ($295) . Besides price, the differences are mostly negligible. I like July's aluminum bumpers, but they do add weight. The Monos's handle rolls out more smoothly, but the July's pebbled surface doesn't show scuffs as badly. Both have survived multiple cross-country trips, being checked as baggage, and being ridden on by two small children with no damage.

Paravel also offers an Aviator carry-on ($395) that touts itself as the world's first carbon-neutral carry-on; it has an interior lining made of recycled plastic bottles, a telescoping handle made of recycled aluminum, and vegan leather trim to help it stand out from all the plain black bags at the airport. Product reviewer Jaina Grey fell in love with its roomy interior and durable, anti-scuff hard-shell exterior.

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On

Yeti's coolers and cups are famous for being bomb-proof. The company recently launched a luggage line that's similarly overbuilt. The Yeti Crossroads 35L is a 22-inch roller bag that's carry-on size for most major airlines. It weighs 7.7 pounds, on par with soft-sided competitors of the same size.

I recently spent a week dragging the Crossroads up and down grimy subway station escalators, thumping it across cobblestones, and scrunching it into overfull overhead bins during a trip to London, Paris, and Brussels. The blue 700D nylon on the front and sides looks just as fresh as it did out of the box while the molded polycarbonate shell on the back has a few well-earned battle scratches. The two extra-large fixed wheels are rolling as smoothly as ever and hopped up curbs so well that I grew to favor them over smaller spinner wheels. The Crossroads has a half-dozen well-placed pockets and sturdy zippers that didn't give me any anxiety even as I tugged them hard while smooshing down to fit souvenirs into a carry-on with 8 days of clothing. —Martin Cizmar

Best Bag for a Lifetime

Do you only want to buy one suitcase and never think about it, ever again? Briggs & Riley is one of the few companies with a lifetime unlimited warranty. I bought a Briggs & Riley carry-on as my first and only post-college purchase. Right now, it has lasted over 20 years. Periodically, I bring it into the one Briggs & Riley-approved dealership in my town to get a zipper pull put back on, and it's fixed for free in a few days. Its components are top-of-the-line. The face fabric is a heavy-duty ballistic nylon that’s water-repellent and abrasion-resistant. After having been dragged all over the globe, from the Philippines to Turkey to Iceland, the gleaming red is just as bright.

The low-profile wheels nor handles have never broken. The grab handles are also luxuriously smooth and padded, and there's an interior folding garment bag for my husband's suits. The only downside is that at 9.3 pounds, it’s pretty heavy.

★ Alternatives: If you need an absolutely bomber-tough rolling suitcase and don't mind its 9.6-pound weight, the Pro Front-Access Carry ($799) will stand up to more abuse than most rolling bags, with its aluminum frame and 70-percent-recycled polycarbonate body. WIRED reviewer Chris Haslam says it's his favorite rolling bag in years. Jancer also likes Travelpro's Platinum Elite carry-on ($315) , which he calls one of the most high-end polycarbonate bags on the market.

Juliane Bergmann

Kathy Gilsinan

Julian Chokkattu

Best Backpack

When I reviewed the Cotopaxi Allpa in 2018 ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ), it had only recently launched. Now, a half-dozen years later, it is one of the most popular travel backpacks that I see online and in airports all over the world. It's a combination of a camping backpack, a suitcase, and a soft, frameless duffel. You can splay it open like a sandwich to pack it easily; access items through a side zip; put it on your backpack and secure its weight with a sternum strap; or squash or stomp it into any overhead compartment or corner of your car trunk. The use case for this bag is extremely specific—the same people who are bopping around Thailand for several weeks in one backpack are not the same people trying to look professional at a work conference. But it is sturdy and comfortable.

★ Alternative: I took the Ekster Packable Duffel ($250) on several weekend trips this spring, and found that it more than upheld its claims of being built for “smoother journeys, on and off the grid.” This travel bag converts from a backpack to a duffel, with two separate compartments that also splay open for easier packing. The 600-denier exterior and water-resistant zippers are so sturdy that when we ran out of space in the car, we lashed it to the roof rack with surf straps and drove for hours in the rain. It, and its contents, remained pristine.

Best Convertible Bag

Every serious traveler knows the name of Seattle-based Tom Bihn, manufacturer of bomber bags that will last you a lifetime. The Aeronaut 45 is the classic Tom Bihn convertible carry-on, which the size of the maximum allowable carryon bag on a plane.

You get everything from a Tom Bihn bag that you pay for. It’s made of incredibly sturdy 1050 denier ballistic nylon with bombproof YKK zippers and has both hidden backpack straps and an extremely comfortable cross-body strap. This is commerce director Martin Cizmar's bag, and he's tossed it around and lugged down rough streets and through crowds where roller bags are a liability. He owns two and the first lasted for more than a decade. This is the bag that both and I would only fly with if we didn't have to constantly test other bags.

Best Personal Item

Some airlines are not content with charging you extra for checking a bag and now charge you for overhead bin space . The Tom Bihn Trinity ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) addresses that problem by providing a space for you to pack everything you need while still fitting underneath the seat in front of you. As the name suggests, it has three main compartments and three ways to carry—either as a briefcase with padded grab handles, a backpack, or as a shoulder bag with two attachment points.

It has three main compartments which can be arranged to your liking; for example, on one of the side compartments, you can zip a water bottle holder into place or unzip it for more room. It wasn't quite as versatile as I expected; I found that I prefer a small duffel with one main compartment that I can organize as I like. However, it does fit under the seat in front of me, even with clothes, laptop, and four (four!) hardcover books that I somehow stuffed inside it.

Best Work Bag

I've been traveling a lot for work and for family reasons in the past few months, and the bag I prefer for my personal item is the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, which is the larger version of the brand's Nouvelle purse ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). It comes in a medium and a large version; the medium is adequate as an everyday bag, but the large turns it into a versatile work/travel bag. It’s low-profile and has both smooth leather grab handles as well as a shoulder strap. I have kicked it under plane seats and around airports, and the nylon doesn't show any damage. There's a hidden separate compartment if you spill water on yourself, and it has sturdy feet so you can put it on an airplane bathroom counter and dig for your makeup without it falling over or getting the bottom of the bag too disgusting. The toothed zippers do tend to crinkle and snatch at your knuckles when the bag gets overstuffed, but I suppose you could always, uh, avoid overstuffing your bag.

★ Alternatives: We have plenty of recommendations in our guide to the Best Laptop Totes , but we love Lo & Sons. The Catalina Supreme Tote ($338) is also great for weekend trips. Again, there's also a bottom compartment for a pair of shoes, or anything else you need to keep separate.

The Best Hiking Daypack

The Camelbak A.T.P. is so useful that I’m always startled to realize it only has a 20-liter capacity. I have it in the 100 percent recycled white color, which saves water and only emits half the greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating the dying process. It’s a panel loader, which means you can unzip the top and see exactly where everything goes, like a duffel. This is convenient when packing for trips—I was able to fit clothes, a Dopp kit, and electronics for an overnight trip. (I know these types of zippers fail more often than top loaders, but it does make it easier to arrange and sort items near the bottom of the pack.)

I particularly like how narrow it is. It fits my back and goes under airplane seats that even my children’s backpacks can’t. The bottle pocket has a zipper that makes it expandable so it can fit a little coffee thermos or my giant Yeti water bottle . Exterior compression straps also help squeeze my clothes even smaller. This is a great backpack if you want something that looks sleek enough for a work bag but is durable enough to take on a weekend trip to Yosemite.

★ Alternative: I also love the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack ($149) . This 25-liter bag is the perfect combination work/adventure bag. The suspended 15-inch laptop pocket clips shut, and the rest of the pockets are thoughtfully placed. It’s extremely light (a little over a pound) and is made from 100 percent recycled ripstop fabric.

Best Duffel Bag

The Big Haul ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is our favorite duffel because it hits the right balance of robust build materials and pockets without being too heavy to lug around all day. The standout feature of the Big Haul series, which comes in 28-liter to 120-liter options, is the ability to easily reposition the carrying straps, which feature plastic fishhook-style ends that slip into fabric loops. You can connect one strap end-to-end or double up on two straps in an H pattern for more stability with heavy loads. Adding and removing the straps isn't super fast, but it's not difficult, either, and six low-profile loops seems less intrusive than six rattling plastic buckles.

Two small interior pockets and an exterior pocket keep small things organized, and its water-resistant fabric is thick and tough without being stiff. All the sewing around the grab handles feels very robust too. Padded backpack straps hide away under a padded pocket on the top of the bag. This means that when you sling the Big Haul over your shoulders to give your arms a rest, your back is against the relatively clean top of the duffel, rather than a wet, dirty bottom side that's been set down on the ground. The current iteration of the Big Haul is also made with recycled nylon. What's not to love? —Matt Jancer

★ Alternative: For slightly more money, the classic duffel in this category is the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel ($159) , which also comes in a variety of colorways and sizes. You can either carry it by the grab handles or with the shoulder straps, and it's made from 100 percent recycled polyester with a TPU-film laminate. I (Adrienne) have had the 40-liter version for almost 15 years now and the laminate has yet to peel. It also fits as a carry-on on flights.

The Best Expedition Bag

If you like outdoor sports, you probably need a good expedition bag—that is, a huge, burly duffel that you can just throw all your pointy ice axes, trekking poles, or camp chairs into that you can take anywhere and everywhere. Reviewer Matt Jancer's expedition bag of choice is the Red Oxx PR5. He's used it for whitewater paddling trips and to lug mountain climbing equipment from coast to coast without a single frayed thread. Everything about Red Oxx is overbuilt. The zippers are huge, its thick pieces of nylon webbing are robustly sewn, and chunky metal rings hang the detachable carrying strap. All that said, it's not abominably heavy. At 3.4 pounds it's still lighter than many wheeled bags.

★ Alternative: If you've ever gone to a popular outdoor destination, like Yosemite or Everest, you've probably seen stacks of North Face Base Camp duffels . This is the quintessential expedition bag. My own personal bag is the OnSight Tarmac EPO , but the company no longer exists; I also have a Mountain Hardware duffel ($180) and after 20 years, the coating has finally started to peel.

Best for Camping

We love everything from Rux; I'm currently testing the waterproof adventure tote ($150) and I use it for everything from my climbing gear, to picnic gear, to bringing my kids' roller skates and soccer balls to the park. I have also leaked an entire water bottle in it and it stayed contained and out of the bottom of my car.

But for camping (or any outdoor pursuit, really), what you need is a Rux storage system , which, as the artist and filmmaker Van Neistat puts it, will help you kit your shit . It holds its frame shape, which means you can stack and organize inside of it just like a box, but it folds down like a bag for easy storage once you're at your destination. It's also light and waterproof and comes with a wide array of accessories . This is an upgrade for everyone who currently sorts their camping, climbing, or snowboarding gear in a series of $5 plastic totes and stacks them in their trunk.

The Best Aluminum Suitcase

Perhaps you've seen those Instagram-friendly, shiny aluminum suitcases and wonder whether it's worth the investment. Aluminum is extremely durable and can be machined with precision. That means it will protect your belongings better, and you can close them with latches instead of zippers. Your suitcase will last longer and be more secure— zippers are pretty easy to break into —and generally have fewer points of failure.

In my opinion, the cost-benefit analysis generally weighs against them. Aluminum suitcases are usually heavier and won't flex as much if you have overpacking tendencies, and I find them painfully conspicuous. Any suitcase with a decent warranty policy will painlessly cover any repairs. If you must have one, we like Arlo Skye's the Frame. Arlo Skye was founded by alumni from Louis Vuitton and Tumi, and reviewer Matt Jancer says that everything about the Frame screams robust quality, from the leather grab handles to the combination-lock latches. It also comes with a removable battery bank and has a few more liters of carrying capacity than the similarly-sized Away. The main disadvantage is that the interior organization is a bit lacking.

★ Alternative: Do you want the benefits of an aluminum suitcase without the drawbacks? You might want to consider Monos's Hybrid Carry-On ($325) . You won't fool anyone into thinking you've shelled out for a 100 percent aluminum suitcase, but Jancer notes that it's only a pound or so heavier than the competition and the aluminum frame offered better protection than any 100 percent polycarbonate suitcase that he tried.

A Good Emergency Go Bag

To be clear, any bag here could be considered a go-bag—even a grocery bag works when you have to leave the house imminently. But reviewer Nena Farrell used Calpak's duffel for an emergency surgery, and she is kicking herself for not getting it sooner. It was big enough for everything from makeup bags and extra outfits to a massive book and Nintendo Switch, and was comfortable to carry thanks to the large straps.

The shoe compartment was big enough for sandals and slides, but not big enough for shoes with an ankle. It was also a great place to stash haphazard Ziplocs of emergency toiletries and medications. There are some side pockets inside too, plus an exterior side pocket and a pass-through panel to place it on top of your luggage. It was a great hospital companion, but Farrell can't wait to take the Luka somewhere a little more fun.

Other Bags We Like

Not every good product can snag a best-in-category title, but there are several more bags we've tested that get our thumbs-up.

Osprey Ozone 40L for $280 : At 4.47 pounds, Osprey claims this bag is the lightest carry-on suitcase. It's also made from 400D recycled bluesign-approved nylon and is treated with DWR. This bag is light enough to easily hoist above my head and has also been checked multiple times.

Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel for $140 : This duffel weighs a scant 2.7 pounds, but the water-resistant fabric and extraordinarily beefy (though plastic) buckles make it a solid bag for adventuring. There's an exterior pocket for storing shoes or dirty clothes. The backpack straps don't tuck away for storage—you have to unclip them—but might be the most well-padded, comfortable straps I've encountered on a duffel. Exterior daisy chains and an interior zippered pocket round out the impressive features list.

Land's End Waxed Canvas Duffel for $180 : Most duffel bags these days are made of nylon, and while it's tough to call a material that's been popular since the 1940s “modern,” nylon bags don't have the old-school charm that this waxed canvas bag does.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L for $149 : This bag weighs 1 pound, 13 ounces, which is only slightly heavier than air. It also has backpack straps that stow away in a front pocket.

Skyway Epic Carry-On for $160 : At 7.1 pounds, the Epic is an average weight. The handle is a wee bit more finicky than our top pick, and the Travelpro's wheels glide a little more nicely. Still, the Epic is a solid choice.

Target Signature Weekender Bag for $81 : Looking like a cross between a duffel and a handbag, the Weekender has a structure that product reviewer Louryn Strampe says can become overfilled, so keep that in mind if you plan to bring it onto a plane as a carry-on. She appreciates its durability and the many internal pockets for organization, though, and its rather long five-year warranty.

Solgaard Carry-On Closet Plus for $345 : It's a tiny bit over what most airlines list as the maximum dimensions, but the difference is so small that it's accepted 95 percent of the time. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe praises its optional clip-in closet clothing organizer, which makes for efficient packing. The built-in TSA lock is easy to use, and there's an internal power-bank pocket. This suitcase is included in our Favorite Recycled Products guide.

Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On for $200 : This is a hard-side, four-wheeled spinner carry-on made from an outer shell of durable polypropylene. Standout features include an interior fabric made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles and a “WetPak” storage pocket for keeping damp items separated from the rest of your luggage.

Adidas Defender Duffel for $40 : If you're looking for an inexpensive duffel that'll handle some light-duty traveling, this is a good way to save $100. The fabric is significantly thinner and less sturdy than that of other duffels in this guide, and it lacks backpack straps. But for taking on the train or tossing into a car trunk, it'll do the trick.

Bags We Don’t Like

Some bags just aren't worth the asking price, especially with so many good alternatives at all price points.

Peugeot Voyages Carry-On Spinner for $595 : What a price tag for a plastic-case suitcase. You can see where Peugeot tried to imbue the Voyages with some luxury, such as the metal riveting and built-in travel locks, but the case felt no more solid than a budget hard-sided bag, and the USB charging port felt cheap, like an outlet you'd find built into a seat in an airport terminal.

Eagle Creek Caldera Convertible International Carry-On for $469 : At 6 pounds, 2 ounces, this bag is a bit heavy. There's a zip-off 19-liter backpack that you can separate from the rest of the 37-liter bag, but when they're zipped together, the combined size doesn't meet carry-on restrictions.

Ebags CTS Carry-On Spinner for $200 : This one wasn't awful, but there are much better options for the money. Its hard plastic sides felt more brittle than the hard-sided plastic Away suitcases. The handle rattles a lot and it didn't roll quite as smoothly as other bags.

A Few Travel Accessories

Once you've got your bag, you'll want to pack it with a few more useful items:

Apple AirTag for $24 : If you have an iPhone, it's one of the best ways to keep a digital eye on your bags. Drop an AirTag into an interior pocket to make sure you and your luggage are reunited at your destination. Don't have an iPhone? We suggest the Chipolo in our guide to the Best Bluetooth Trackers .

Eagle Creek Specter Pack-It Cubes Three-Pack for $35 keep everything inside your bags organized by allowing you to separate it into different cubes, so you won't ever have to hunt through seven pairs of socks to find your bathing suit again.

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case for $75 : Calpak’s viral clear cases come in three sizes and a ton of colors for the edge trims. Reviewer Nena Farrell loved the small size for my gym bag and traveling with a smaller carry-on bag, while the medium was a great size for my daily makeup or larger suitcases.

Troubadour Buddy 2.0 Tech Case for $75 : You probably need a case to organize your spare charging cables and power banks. I've been testing this compact, waterproof, and recycled bag that fits neatly into my personal item.

UrPower Portable Steamer for $24 beats a travel iron because it's far lighter and you don't need to hunt down an ironing board at your hotel. WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano and I both have been using UrPowers for years. For a tiny thing, it's powerful and effective at steaming practically anything. You just need to refill it often.

Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale for $15 is handy when you're packing a heavy bag for an upcoming trip. Use it to weigh your luggage and make sure it's within the weight limits. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even American airlines will be unforgiving about weight for checked bags.

InCase MacBook Sleeves for $50 will keep your laptop from bearing the damage caused by airport security lines. Travel through an airport without a case and it's only a matter of time before a bare laptop or tablet picks up nasty scratches and dents. Check our guide to the Best MacBook Accessories for more.

How to Pick the Right Size Bag

Every airline sets its own dimensional requirements for carry-on baggage, so if you want to be safe, you should check your airline's requirements before packing. But broadly, they're split into two categories: domestic and international.

Domestic flights by US airlines (and a few others) have standardized on 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

International carry-on bag sizes tend to be about 21 inches tall and a bit narrower, but they're all over the place. It's tough, because many international airlines will measure your bags at the airport and reject anything even slightly bigger than the allowed size. If you fly outside the US a lot, you may as well buy a bag sized for international flights.

You'll also want to check each airline's weight limits. They vary wildly, but some international airlines restrict you to 15 or 20 pounds, including the weight of the bag itself. For example, there are some East Asian airlines that limit carry-on bags to 11 pounds. Once you subtract 6 or more pounds for the bag, you're not left with much wiggle room to put stuff inside.

When to Remove Battery Banks

Battery banks, also known as power banks, are a travel must-have. Whether you're using a tablet to watch movies on your flight or relying on your phone to coordinate rideshares, hotel check-in, and handle your boarding passes, you've got to keep those devices charged and topped up. Many bags offer a removable battery bank that slides into a special pocket or notch of the suitcase.

For carry-on luggage on a flight in the US, you're allowed to bring a lithium-ion battery of 100 watt-hours or less. You don't need to remove it from the suitcase's pocket if you're storing your bag in the overhead bin.

Lithium-ion battery banks are not allowed in checked luggage. If you check your bag or have to gate-check it, make sure to remove the battery bank before you give your suitcase to the gate agent. Slip the battery bank into your purse, backpack, or pocket for the duration of the flight.

Medea Giordano

Scott Gilbertson

Nena Farrell

Martin Cizmar

Matt Jancer

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Best Carry-on Luggage in Canada

Nowadays, there are so many options when traveling, it is super easy to feel overwhelmed. I know I travel so much that figuring out the best way to travel is always on the forefront of my mind. 

One decision in particular is a topic that has more questions than answers – luggage. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, for a weekend or for a week, with minimal belongings or half of your closet, there is a carry-on out there that prioritizes the same things you do!

For background information, see our comparison table and buying advice .

Best carry-on luggage

• Best overall – Travelon Wheeled Underseat Carry-On
• Best for digital professionals – Swiss Gear International Wheeled Business Case
• Best on a budget – Travelers Club 20″ Carry-On Luggage

Best elite – NOMATIC 40L Travel Bag

• Best backpack – Osprey Packs Daylite Plus Daypack

Best soft-shell – Samsonite Spinner Underseater

• Best hard-shell – AmazonBasics Hardside Carry On

Best for professionals – Convertible Suit Travel Bag

• Best duffel – TELOSPORTS Canvas Duffel Bag

Our research

Research Sources

Products Evaluated

Reviews Considered

Hours of Research

Best carry-on luggage comparison

Our pick for best overall – travelon wheeled underseat carry-on.

• Weight: 2.6 Kg
• Size: 35.6 x 34.3 x 21.6 cm

For those who care the most about traveling light and efficiently, this carry-on is compact enough to fit under the seat in front of you in planes without sacrificing much storage capability. It also comes with an extra tote bag that can be used for extra convenience or folded away for later use!

The main compartment completely folds out when unzipped, so you can easily access everything inside without having to dig around. When opened, the Travelon features two small open pockets for small accessories, two small zippered pockets to help with organization, and a larger compartment to fit an impressive amount of clothes.

On the outside of the bag, you get one smaller zip pocket and a water bottle pocket.

It also features 2 durable wheels and a handle, so you don’t need to actually carry your carry-on.

Best for digital professionals – Swiss Gear International Business Case

• Weight: 2.7 Kg
• Size: 41 x 36 x 18 cm

For those who need a bag that suits their digital lifestyle, this durable bag holds up to a 15.6-Inch laptop with its padded compartment . This carry-on is compact, yet it holds everything a professional needs for a business trip. 

This Swiss Gear bag features a compartment for all of your paperwork and a kissing lock zipper to keep them secure. The front pocket has superior organization in mind for pens, pencils, your cell phone, and other small necessities. 

Along with this, Swiss Gear is renowned for their durability and make this carry-on with a material called Polytex to protect what’s inside.

Best on a budget – Travelers Club 20″

• Weight: 3.6 Kg
• Size: 33 x 27.9 x 50.8 cm
• Volume: 47L

For those who are on a budget but still need a reliable, hard-shell carry-on, this option allows you to pack enough clothes and necessities to avoid having to pay more for checking in luggage.

Simple but efficient, this luggage opens up to a main compartment and a zippered compartment. The classic design features 4 wheels to allow complete freedom of movement and spins as you would like. 

One feature that really sets this luggage apart aside from the price tag is the capability to expand the carry-on if you decide that you want to bring just a little bit more on the plane with you.

• Weight: 1.55 Kg
• Size: 22.86 x 53.34 x 35.56 cm
• Volume: 40L

This bag might just be the best on this list if based on features and design alone. However, it comes at a hefty price tag. That’s why this bag is really best for those who want the most elite bag on the market – regardless of the price. Although, it is available to pay in payments through the website’s affiliate and comes with a lifetime warranty. 

This carry-on features over 20 innovative designs, but perhaps here are some of the most impressive. 

The bag has a 40L capacity, but is still carry-on certified. The bag itself transforms from a duffel bag to a backpack depending on your preference (the straps can tuck in to be hidden). It also comes with waist straps if you need more support. The material is made durably and features water resistance. It also comes with a laundry bag to keep your used clothes separate from your fresh clothes.

As you open the main compartment of the bag, it completely folds out to have the best access to pack. Throughout the rest of the bag, you’ll find compartments for almost everything you could want to pack. 

This includes a compartment for your:

• Passport (RFID Protected)
• Water Bottle
• Immediate access pocket

Best backpack – Osprey Daylite Plus Pack

• Weight: 0.56 Kg
• Size: 45.72 x 25.40 x 22.86 cm
• Volume: 20L

Osprey is known for making hiking backpacks that won’t fail when you need them the most. Nonetheless, this pack can still be used by those who want a strong pack to use as a carry-on. It is a 20L pack that has minimal frills and focuses on just being a pack that can be counted on to hold your carry-on necessities.

This pack features a large main compartment that does have a sleeve for your laptop and tablet and has enough room to pack clothes and other items you will want to bring with you. Along with that, it also has 2 side mesh pockets, a small zip pocket on the front, and an immediate access pocket on the top.

• Weight: 2.5 Kg
• Size: 22.9 x 34.3 x 41.9 cm

Samsonite is a well-known luggage company for a reason – their products are never subpar and are made to travel well. This compact spinner is no different. Made with an ergonomic design, this Samsonite has four wheels for 360-movement and a handle that feels good when using it.

The main compartment completely folds out to pack with ease. Inside, you will find a sleeve for your laptop and a compartment behind it for all of your clothes and maybe one pair of shoes. Please keep in mind that this laptop sleeve only accommodates up to a 13.3 inch laptop which is not totally ideal for all.

It does feature a USB-port to charge your electronics and side pockets for further convenience and organization. 

Best hard-shell – AmazonBasics Hardside

• Weight: 3.24 Kg
• Size: 38 x 25.5 x 55 cm

This carry-on has been rated well as a 20-inch hardshell luggage with 360 movement. With its simplistic design, it stands as the best hard-shell because it is scratch resistant – which comes in handy with the airport tossing your luggage around – and is meant to help keep everything inside the carry-on just a bit safer.

Amazon also claims an additional 15% capacity with the carry-on’s expansion capability without worrying about the zippers failing or the sides tearing.

Inside, you will find a zippered section and an open section with straps for securing your belongings.

• Weight: 1.6 Kg
• Size: 30.5 x 32 x 55.9 cm
• Volume: 55L

If you are in business, a lawyer, or just love wearing suits all the time, this bag is perfect for you. Made so that you won’t have to carry a separate bag for your suits or worry about your suits getting wrinkled, this carry-on features a garment bag that holds your suit while preventing wrinkles.

Aside from carrying suits, one very favorable aspect of the design is its ability to transform from a hanging garment bag to a duffel bag. This makes it so much easier to carry through the airport and onto the plane.

The fabric of this 55L bag is water resistant and durable. The bag features 11 pockets to keep your things organized and a separate shoe compartment to keep your things clean.

Best stylish duffel – TELOSPORTS Canvas Bag

• Weight: 1 Kg
• Size: 46 x 25 x 23 cm

This duffel bag is a great option for those who like to travel in style. It comes in 14 different colours so you can choose what matches your personality the best!

It comes with a shoulder strap and durable handles, so you can choose which way you prefer to carry it. It is made out of a stylish canvas material that looks great while providing a durable material that lasts.

It features a large main pocket, 2 side pockets, 2 front zipper pockets, 1 back zipper pocket, and 1 inner zipper pocket. Essentially, it has a pocket for great organization while you travel. 

Bottom line

What to consider when looking for a carry-on.

Is the price something that you feel justifies the value of the product? It is important to ensure that you stay within your budget, and the products listed today vary for that reason.

Some of the bags are more compact than others, and some of the bags have more volume. Make sure to get the size that you feel is comfortable to you to travel with without having to leave more than you want to behind.

Characteristics

Each of these bags have something that makes them more distinguishable over the other bags. When looking through this article, pay attention to what you prioritize over others. Whether it’s price, functionality, design, style, or anything else – there is a bag for you.

Organization

When traveling, it is very important to stay organized and avoid frustration of not being able to find what you want. Your carry-on should be making your travel experience easier so that you can actually focus on what matters – travelling.

Convenience

Overall, the bag should be convenient for you. If you are someone who finds convenience in not having to find overhead space, then pick a more compact bag. If you are someone who has a lot of small items when travelling, pick a bag that can organize all of them and so forth.

Over to you

Now that you have the knowledge and the guide, go forth and choose your carry-on with confidence! Choose what’s best for you and let it feel like a seamless addition to your travelling experience, so you can get back to what really matters.

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Don’t trip – travel season is in full swing so we’re rounding up the go-to carry-on rolling luggage to invest in. From functional finds to fashion-forward designs, these pieces of luggage are the best of the best on the market — for their own unique reasons.

We’ve tried many of the carry-ons by taking them on trips and testing their limits. Even though these are all carry-ons we’ve checked the ones we’ve tried, as sometimes you’re unable to bring them on the plane due to capacity limits. Once baggage is checked, the quality of the suitcase is really tested, as they’re tossed and turned throughout their very own travel journey. Ultimately, we’re looking for luggage that is light enough to carry, durable enough to check over and over again, organized enough for neat packing and has wheels that are high-quality and smooth.

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So, whether you’re heading off on a road trip with friends or jetting overseas for a new adventure, these are the top travel-friendly rolling luggage options to tote with you during your next getaway. 

Functional and Canadian : Monos Carry-On Pro Plus From trendsetting to jet setting : BÉIS The Carry-On Roller Preppy and practical : PARAVEL Aviator Carry-On Plus Lightweight and durable : Bugatti Brussels Hardside Carry-on Best for long trips : Away The Bigger Carry-On Budget-friendly : MUJI Adjustable Hard Shell Suitcase Best for weekend getaways : Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Spinner Best splurge-worthy carry-on : RIMOWA Essential Cabin

The carry-ons

Functional and Canadian : Monos Carry-On Pro Plus

Features: The Monos Carry-On Pro Plus is an upgraded take on the brand’s award-winning Carry-On design. It features generous interior and exterior pockets designed to hold your valuables, a TSA-approved combination lock and high-performance wheels. Plus, it’s made using an aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shell that’s crafted from partially recycled materials. This carry-on is perfect for your next getaway because it also includes extra necessities such as an anti-microbial, silver ion-coated laundry bag and two shoe bags, as well as a vegan leather luggage tag. We’ve tested this carry-on time and time again and love that it doesn’t allow you to overpack due to its compact size. We’ve tried the white colour and though it started really nice, it’s now quite marked up. The bag does come with an eraser sponge that works well on scuffs, but perhaps just invest in a darker colour.

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What it’s best at: Monos champions the notion of mindful travel and hopes to inspire passionate wanderers with its selection of timeless designs. Built upon a “less is more” ideal, Monos’ clean yet simple silhouettes are made to last and are accessibly priced to accommodate a range of travel budgets. Monos is a Canadian brand based in Vancouver.

Price: $355 Where to buy: Monos

From trendsetting to jet setting : BÉIS The Carry-On Roller (21″ Luggage)

Features: Shay Mitchell’s BÉIS travel brand is that girl. You can shop the brand’s iconic Carry-On Roller on Revolve, which features 360-degree smooth-rolling wheels that are designed for effortlessly carrying capabilities. In addition, the Carry-On contains an interior that actually expands an extra two inches to accommodate all of your travel must-haves, and then some! The best part? You can shop the silhouette in an array of colourways designed to truly make travelling more fun. 

What it’s best at: BÉIS disrupted the travel industry by offering consumers innovative- yet affordable- travel-friendly pieces. This is because its carefully crafted collection of trendy travel must-haves doesn’t break the bank. Without compromising on functionality, the brand has developed a fashion-forward selection of accessories and bags designed to travel with you whenever, wherever. Plus, most of the brand’s products are multi-purpose in use, making them ultra-versatile to fit your unique travel needs.

Price: $320 Where to buy: Revolve

Lightweight and durable : Bugatti Brussels Hardside Carry-on

Features: The Bugatti Brussels Hardside Carry-On offers a sleek yet contemporary design that’s durable and designed to fit your travel lifestyle. The luggage features an array of helpful integrated components such as a TSA lock, a telescopic trolley handle, and tightening straps inside the main compartment to keep belongings safely stowed. It’s also lightweight, which helps make travelling a breeze.

What it’s best at: Bugatti takes the art of travel very seriously in how it strives to create elevated yet functional accessories for its consumer base. The brand offers affordable luxury for those looking for reliable suitcases they can trust, whether travelling to the office or around the world.  

Price: $149.99 Where to buy: Bugatti (three-piece available on Amazon )

Best for long trips : Away The Bigger Carry-On

Features: If you’re heading on a longer trip, Away’s The Bigger Carry-On is a definite add-to-cart for your next adventure. The spacious design with interior compression allows for all of your essentials to be neatly packed while integrated features — such as the durable, lightweight shell and TSA combination lock — ensure stress-free travel days. This case is truly made to last and includes thoughtful details that make for a seamless trip, every time. Plus, the brand offers a 100-day free trial that you can learn more about on the website.

What it’s best at: Away offers consumers durable cases that are built to last — no matter the destination. The brand also prides itself on providing accessories that are designed by travellers, for travellers. This is because Away utilizes traveller experiences to help pave its ongoing approach to product design and innovation.  

Price: $405 Where to buy: Away

Budget-friendly : MUJI Adjustable Hard Shell Suitcase

Featur es: The brand’s best-selling travel luggage offers a sleek and functional design that is partially made with recycled polycarbonate from water bottles. The new lightweight design includes a TSA-approved lock as well as an innovative wheel stopper function and adjustable handle. It’s also available in a fun new colourway — light yellow.

What it’s best at: MUJI is a no-frills brand that you can trust when it comes to investing in products that are simple in design yet crafted to get the job done. This is a brand that is committed to offering travel essentials designed to help streamline the process. From innovative additions to affordable price points, travellers can look to MUJI for quality products. 

Price: $199.90 Where to buy: MUJI

Best for weekend getaways : Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Spinner

Features: I f you’re heading on a weekend trip with friends or family, this Outline Pro Carry-On Spinner from Samsonite is the perfect addition to your getaway. Since it’s under seven pounds, you can seamlessly move from location to location. Plus, it includes integrated ergonomic features as well as dual spinner wheels that allow for easy transportation across multiple surfaces.

What it’s best at: Samsonite is a trusted brand that offers long-lasting luggage crafted with high-quality standards. As a travel brand that champions timeless designs inspired to move with you through life, Samsonite is a must-try when venturing out into the world. ( Check out our review of Samsonite luggage .)

Price: $199.99 Where to buy: Samsonite  

Preppy and practical : PARAVEL Aviator Carry-On Plus

Features: This rolling lugg age from PARAVEL is the perfect mix of preppy and practical. It features a recycled polycarbonate exterior with aluminum handles as well as vegan leather details that make this a stylish in-flight option to carry all of your personal belongings. In terms of practicality, it also features multiple compartments, a dual zip with combination lock closure and a TSA-approved lock.

What it’s best at: PARAVEL is a travel brand that puts sustainability at the forefront. The brand is dedicated to creating and offering luggage designed for any and all travel. As a result, the brand’s Aviator Carry-On Plus is impeccably designed and multi-functional in design making it a must-have for any destination. 

Price: $601.33 Where to buy: FWRD  

Best splurge-worthy carry-on : RIMOWA Essential Cabin

Features: This fashion-forward premium essential cabin luggage is a splurge-worthy must-have for your next destination as it is lightweight yet durable. Featuring a high-tech functional design, it comes equipped with features such as TSA-approved locks, a telescopic handle and a multi-wheel design for comfortable carrying capabilities. As well, it has organized interior compartments designed to hold all of your treasured belongings. This is not just a piece of luggage — it is an icon that will inspire your future travel endeavours.   

What it’s best at: Known for its superior, unparalleled craftsmanship and quality when it comes to developing functional yet fashionable travel accessories, RIMOWA continues to evolve and dominate the market by offering reimagined classic silhouettes and designs. As an iconic brand, RIMOWA is revolutionizing the space with its collection of luxury luggage designed to make travel better. Offering stunning world-class travel solutions, consumers can also enjoy peace of mind while travelling knowing that there is a lifetime guarantee on new suitcases purchased from July 25, 2022.  

Price: $1,175 Where to buy: RIMOWA

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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.

The 12 Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Travel lighter and easier with these suitcases

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

TripSavvy / Tamara Staples

These days, with more and more airlines charging fees for checked bags, many travelers are choosing to limit themselves to a carry-on whenever they can. This means it’s more important than ever to purchase a bag tough enough to withstand being hauled in and out of overhead compartments—yet light and spacious enough to give you the greatest amount of packing space possible. Handy extras range from TSA-approved locks and integrated luggage scales to USB ports for keeping your devices charged in transit. 

With so many brands and styles out there, choosing the right suitcase can seem overwhelming. To make it a little easier, we tested 41 of the most popular options in our testing lab. We put them through their paces and scored them for attributes, including capacity, design, durability, maneuverability, and value.

Final Verdict

How we tested, other carry-on luggage we tested.

• What To Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

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

Superior movement

Built to handle rigors of travel

Effortlessly cool

Not enough zippered pockets

An instant favorite with our testing team, the Samsonite Freeform Carry-On is made of injection-molded polypropylene for a hardside case that’s exceptionally lightweight, durable, and impact-resistant. It stood up well to our baseball bat test with barely any scuffs—so much so that we’d feel confident if we had to check it. We loved its minimal, ultra-modern aesthetic and found that it had sufficient space for everything on our packing list, even without employing the expansion feature. 

Potential purchasers should be aware that although the expansion feature is a definite bonus, overstuffing the suitcase could make it exceed some airline carry-on restrictions. We felt the interior organization options were good, with a cross ribbon, divider, and several pockets. The only downside was that there was only one zippered pocket, meaning you’d have to choose whether to separate shoes or dirty laundry. 

The suitcase has four 360-degree double spinner wheels for flawless maneuverability, and we found that it had the best glide of any bag we tested. It was easier to operate on two wheels over bumps, but transitioning between two- and four-wheeled use was a breeze. The suitcase also features a multi-stage handle with a wider grip for added comfort; a recessed, TSA-approved combination lock; and a built-in ID tag. Colors range from classic black to silver or sky blue. Finally, your purchase includes a limited 10-year global warranty. 

Dimensions: 21.25 x 15.25 x 10 inches | Weight: 6.5 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Tamara Staples

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Travelpro platinum elite carry-on spinner.

• Capacity 4.7 /5
• Design 4.5 /5

Easy to maneuver

Solid, adjustable handle

Excellent impact and scratch resistance

Capacity could be more generous

Power bank sold separately

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Carry-On is a relatively expensive option; however, a 100 percent polycarbonate shell with reinforced aluminum corner guards makes it impressively durable and, therefore, worth the investment. Even after multiple drop tests and bat beatings, we could see no visible signs of damage. The textured finish should help reduce the visibility of scuffs or scratches, keeping your luggage looking brand new for longer. Exterior highlights include an integrated TSA lock and USB-A and USB-C charge ports. 

This suitcase benefits from Travelpro’s famous PrecisionGlide System, with eight self-aligning spinner wheels and a PowerScope Lite handle with four height settings. We found it incredibly smooth and easy to navigate and particularly liked the handle’s sturdy feel and textured grip. When it came to packing, we had to use the expansion feature to fit everything in, which made it a tight squeeze getting the bag into an overhead compartment. However, we liked the zippered divider panel and water-resistant toiletries section.

Dimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds | Wheels: 8 | Expandable: Yes

Jhett Thompson

Best Budget

Amazon basics hardside spinner.

Minimalist, sleek aesthetic

Functional internal division

Easily handles any terrain out there

No TSA-approved lock

The AmazonBasics 21-inch spinner retails for well under $100, making it the most affordable option on this list. Despite its modest price tag, it surpassed our expectations on every test, making it an exceptional value for the money. It features a thick ABS plastic shell with a scratch-resistant, textured finish. We loved the simple sleekness of its design and the four bold colors to choose from, including black, navy blue, light blue, and orange. 

Four double-spinner wheels provide smooth maneuverability in any direction, with the suitcase performing admirably over bumps, obstacle courses, and smooth and carpeted surfaces during our testing process. The fully lined interior is expandable by up to 15 percent, although we didn’t have to use this feature to fit everything in. We particularly liked the built-in organizer with its three separate zippered pockets and the compression straps that kept all our belongings in place. The durable zippers and a sturdy handle complete the bag’s list of attributes.

Dimensions: 22 x 14.9 x 10 inches | Weight: 6.3 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Samsonite Omni PC Carry-on

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 3.8 /5

Great resilience to cosmetic damage

Ample packing space from the outset

Simple yet effective internal layout

Wheels are too small

The Samsonite Omni PC Carry-On may retail for roughly double the price of our budget pick, but it's still considerably cheaper than many of the suitcases on this list and combines durability, capacity, and lightness to provide impressive value for the money. It features a 100 percent polycarbonate shell with micro-diamond texturing for extreme scratch resistance (even after our rigorous testing, it showed no visible scratches). And it's protected by Samsonite's generous 10-year global warranty—just one of many things we love about Samsonite luggage .

We found we could fit everything in without using the suitcase's expansion feature. However, it was still a tight fit in the overhead compartment, so it's a good idea to check the exact requirements of your favorite airline before purchasing. We liked the organizational features—namely, a zippered divider and compression straps. The only drawback was the undersized spinner wheels, which caught easily on ruts (but performed well on carpet and sharp turns). The handle has two height settings, and the integrated lock is TSA-compliant. 

Dimensions: 22 x 15 x 9.75 inches | Weight: 7.05 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Best Softside

Travelpro platinum elite 21-inch expandable carry-on.

• Organization 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.9 /5

Made to last from premium fabrics

Plenty of storage solutions

Smart capabilities

Relatively expensive

If you’re looking for a softside carry-on, the Travelpro Platinum Elite is an excellent pick, featuring high-density nylon with a DuraGuard coating that resists stains and abrasions. This showed up during our durability tests, and the suitcase survived completely unscathed. With its genuine leather accents and chrome zippers, we feel this is a quality investment likely to endure long enough to justify its high price tag. As a bonus, it includes a built-in USB charge port with an external power bank pocket that adheres to FAA regulations. 

We did have to use the tip-resistant expansion feature to make space for everything on our packing list, which made the bag significantly larger. However, we really appreciated the thoughtful interior organization features, including two separate compartments, a deluxe tie-down system, and integrated accessory pockets. There’s even a removable, quart-sized wet bag for your toiletries and a fold-out suiter. Other highlights include Travelpro’s renowned PrecisionGlide System and a choice of elegant colors such as Bordeaux and Rich Espresso. 

Dimensions: 23.5 x 14.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 8.3 pounds | Wheels: 8 | Expandable: Yes

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Hardside

Samsonite outline pro carry-on spinner.

Samsonite 

• Maneuverability 3.5 /5

Chic and streamlined 

Great choice of storage compartments

Several nice-to-have features

Rolled less smoothly than others

We loved the ultra-modern, contoured design of the Samsonite Outline Pro’s polypropylene shell, which not only looked excellent but also protected it entirely from scratches and dents during our testing process. The case also stands out for its integrated extras, including a USB charge port and a TSA-approved lock, while an interior lined with fabric made from recycled plastic bottles wins points for sustainability and a 10-year limited global warranty affords peace of mind.

We were able to pack everything without using the expansion feature and loved this suitcase’s intuitive organization options. These include a KompressPak panel to keep your belongings in place and two integrated, zippered pockets (one of which is waterproof for any damp items). The bag was slightly let down by its movement, which was clunkier than expected on all four wheels. However, the molded trolley handle is height-adjustable and infused with an additive to help reduce germs. 

Dimensions: 23 x 15 x 10 inches | Weight: 6.39 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Best for Business Travel

Béis the carry-on roller.

• Durability 2.5 /5

Outstanding organization

Simple to move

Resilient, attractive exterior

Somewhat unwieldy on four wheels

The Béis Carry-On Roller is an excellent fit for frequent business travelers, with an ultra-lightweight and durable virgin polycarbonate shell that’s easy to roll, drag, and lift while also withstanding extensive rough handling. The appealing 3D stripe design and range of sophisticated colors (from beige to dusky pink) ensure you’ll also earn style points with your colleagues. We found the Hinomoto 360-degree spinner wheels turned tightly and rolled smoothly over bumps, while the handle’s cushioned silicone grip was infinitely comfortable. 

Perhaps best of all is this suitcase’s thoughtfully designed interior, which features multiple zippered flaps, pockets, and pouches for everything from small essentials to shoes and laundry. In fact, the storage options were so comprehensive our tester wished they could exceed our maximum points score on this front. Other highlights include a 2-inch expansion feature, a retractable strap for attaching your purse, a weight limit indicator, and a TSA lock. Lastly, the suitcase comes with the brand’s limited lifetime warranty. 

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 8.36 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Best Organization

Away the bigger carry-on flex.

• Durability 4 /5

All around fluid movement

Great choice for overpackers

Comes with sponge for removing scratches

Not a budget pick

If you’re the traveler who always needs more packing space—for last-minute items from home or souvenirs bought on your trip—you’ll love The Bigger Carry-On Flex from Away. Built using durable polycarbonate with stylish leather details, it fits 20 percent more than the brand’s standard carry-on and expands to reveal an additional 2.25 inches of space (although utilizing it may mean you have to check the bag on some airlines). An interior compression system helps you to fit even more. 

On the inside, the lining is removable—handy for washing out any accidental spills. We enjoyed the multiple organization compartments, including a hidden laundry bag designed to keep dirty clothes separate. The suitcase survived our durability tests intact and also aced our maneuverability trials. We found that the 360-degree spinner wheels glided smoothly, turned easily, and functioned just as well whether we were using two or four of them. Choose from a range of eye-catching colors and enjoy a 100-day trial and free shipping.

Dimensions: 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 8.6 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Conor Ralph

Best Sustainable

Paravel aviator carry-on plus.

• Durability 4.5 /5

Entirely carbon neutral 

Frictionless wheels for a super smooth ride

Great capacity and interior layout

No expansion feature

Paravel is a brand with sustainability at its core, and the Aviator Carry-On Plus is no exception. The carbon emissions involved in sourcing, producing, and shipping the bag are all offset—as is its first trip with you. Materials are all sustainable, from the recycled polycarbonate shell with its recycled vegan leather trim to the lining made from 15 recycled plastic bottles. And you won’t be sacrificing anything in terms of style, thanks to the chic two-tone color scheme and the test-proven scuff-hiding finish. 

Although this carry-on doesn’t expand, we were able to fit everything on our packing list with room to spare. We loved the luxurious, impeccably organized interior, which boasts a compression board, pockets, and a removable laundry bag. The suitcase was also incredibly easy to maneuver, thanks to 360-degree wheels with carbon steel bearings that rolled like a dream. Other pros include a TSA lock and Paravel’s five-year warranty, making this purchase well worth it for those with the cash to spare. 

Dimensions: 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 8.5 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: No

Best Design

July carry on pro snapsleeve.

• Value 4.5 /5

External laptop sleeve 

Smart features

Sturdy, quiet wheels for a smooth glide

The compression system could be more effective 

Made from crush-proof polycarbonate that stood up well to our durability tests, the July Carry-On Pro represents the next generation of carry-on suitcases. Its most exciting feature is the detachable SnapSleeve, a padded 16-inch laptop compartment with space for documents and an extra zippered pocket that uses magnets to click into place on the outside of the suitcase. Want to store your bag overhead but keep your laptop with you? No more rummaging around in the aisle.

You can also charge your laptop and phone using the ejectable battery with its USB and FastCharge USB-C ports. The bag fits everything on our packing list, with a Twin-Strap compression system and hidden laundry bag. We especially loved how well the suitcase rolled on cement and rough surfaces, with four SilentMove wheels that never caught or got stuck. Other highlights include a 20-height telescopic handle, a TSA lock, and the ability to personalize—either with text or an illustration of your pet.

Dimensions: 21.5 x 15 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 7.9 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: No

Best Durability

Monos carry on plus spinner.

• Design 4 /5
• Maneuverability 4 /5

Durable exterior

Excellent capacity and organization

Gorgeous colors

Movement could be improved

The Monos Carry-On Plus is a looker with its premium materials, vegan leather details, and beautiful color choices like Desert Taupe and Rose Quartz. Not just a pretty face, though, it’s also incredibly tough, with an aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell that withstood multiple drop tests and bat beatings without sustaining anything more than easily removable scuff marks. Its longevity is proven by the fact it comes with a lifetime warranty. All details, from the YKK zippers to the sturdy telescopic handle, are top quality. 

We loved the suitcase’s interior too. We felt it was beautifully made and were impressed with how much we were able to fit. The clamshell design features a zippered panel on one side for keeping shoes or dirty laundry separate, while the other uses a compression pad and ballistic nylon straps to keep your belongings firmly in place. The only downside was the case’s maneuverability. We felt it was relatively hard to turn, and it worked better on two wheels than four.

Dimensions: 23 x 15 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 7.38 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: No

Best Splurge

Tumi continental dual access carry-on.

Spacious interior with superb layout

Seamlessly glides over any terrain 

Comes with Tumi Tracer

Exorbitant price tag

Retailing at more than $1,000, the Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On is undoubtedly a splurge (and one our tester found difficult to justify despite its excellent performance). However, if you’re looking for a suitcase that’s as much a status symbol as a luggage item, this is it. It features Tumi’s proprietary FXT ballistic nylon with a unique weave and special, extra-durable coating. The benefit was clear after our durability tests, of which the bag showed no evidence of damage. 

It opens two ways: clamshell style and via a front lid, both with quality security zippers. With three exterior pockets, multiple interior pockets, and dividers (including a removable garment sleeve), it’s the organized packer’s dream. We loved that we could fit everything without using the expansion feature and that it slid easily into the overhead compartment. Four dual spinner wheels and a premium telescoping handle guarantee a smooth roll over all surfaces, while extras range from a USB port to optional monogramming. 

Dimensions: 22.0 x 16.0 x 9.0 inches | Weight: 11.7 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

The Samsonite Freeform Spinner earns first place among our testers thanks to its exceptional maneuverability, chic aesthetics, and long-lasting build. A close second, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Spinner is easy to control and includes functional extras.

All carry-on luggage was tested in our purpose-built laboratory. First, bags were packed with a prescribed list of items to reflect what one might take on a four-day sightseeing trip in the fall . During the packing process, organization features and component quality were evaluated. Once full, we tested how well the suitcase rolled over a variety of terrains (smooth concrete, carpet, and gravel) before using an obstacle course designed to simulate a busy airport terminal to test maneuverability. 

Next, we lifted the luggage into a simulated overhead compartment to check fit and how easy it was to pick it up and set it down again. Finally, we subjected the suitcase to stringent durability tests, including pushing it off the top of a shelving unit and beating it with a baseball bat. Both tests were repeated to check all areas of the bag for weaknesses. Based on these tests, we gave each product a score from 1 to 5 for capacity, design, durability, maneuverability, and value. These scores determined our category winners. 

In all, we tested 41 pieces of carry-on luggage. The top performers are those included above. Here are some other pieces we deemed as honorable mentions:

Arlo Skye The Zipper Carry-On Max with Front Pocket : This suitcase performed quite well in our tests, particularly in terms of durability, capacity, and maneuverability, but the internal organization could be better and the price tag was a bit high.

Bric's Bellagio V2.0 21" Carry-On Spinner Trunk : Stylish, tough as nails, and stellar organization capacity are a few things we loved about the Bellagio. Our tester subtracted some points because the toiletry bag didn't fit and the price tag leaned toward the higher end.

Briggs & Riley Sympatico Domestic Carry-On Expandable Spinner 22" : For frequent travelers who can invest a bit more upfront for an extremely durable suitcase, this is a no-brainer. The interior featured a less-than-intuitive expansion feature and our tester struggled with the zippers.

COOLIFE Carry On with Pocket : We couldn't fault the long-lasting build or the value of this pick. Though generally a solid option, we noticed the maneuverability was lacking (performing some tasks better on two wheels and some on four), and the internal compartment made packing bulky items a bit more complicated.f

What to Look For in Carry-On Luggage

Although weight restrictions for carry-on bags vary depending on the airline you’re flying with, the aircraft size, and your travel class, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) states that limits can be as strict as just 11 pounds. Therefore, the weight of your empty carry-on affects how much you’ll be able to pack within it and is an essential factor to consider. Different materials and designs affect luggage weight; generally, polypropylene is the lightest choice for hardside cases, while nylon and polyester are favorite lightweight picks for softside cases. 

Maneuverability

Imagine you’re late for your plane and need to run through a crowded airport terminal , dodging fellow passengers as you go. You need a carry-on that rolls effortlessly, whether pushing it in front of you or pulling it behind you and one that can turn instantly in any direction. For the best maneuverability, always choose a suitcase with four wheels instead of two, and make sure they’re the spinning kind that offers seamless, 360-degree movement. Good quality wheels and a sturdy telescoping handle will give you the same maneuverability on various terrains. 

Organization

Even the most basic carry-ons will typically have at least one interior pouch or pocket, usually for separating dirty laundry or shoes or for stashing smaller items so they’re easy to find. More sophisticated options include multiple pockets of varying sizes and materials (perhaps a waterproof one for damp items), zippered dividers that split your packing space in two, and fold-out suiters or removable garment bags. Exterior pockets are typically reserved for softsided bags and can help stash passports and other documents you need to keep handy.

Hard vs. Soft Luggage

Hardside and softside cases have pros and cons, and which is better is primarily a matter of personal preference.

Hardside cases generally offer a trendier and more modern aesthetic, provide better weather resistance, are easier to clean, and protect delicate items with their rigid frame. However, they tend to show more wear and tear on their sleek exteriors than softside bags, so if you're choosing purely based on looks, keep that in mind. Also, hardside bags tend to have fewer pockets and organizational features.

Softside cases are more able to withstand rough handling since they won’t dent or crack and are often lighter and more flexible. The latter means that you have more wiggle room if you tend to overstuff your bag or need to pack odd-shaped items. However, if you're packing fragile items in a softside bag, you need to do so with extra caution as the soft exterior won't provide much protection from drops or hard landings. For breakables, we recommend packing in a hardside bag that can better protect items inside.

Dimensions vary from airline to airline (and sometimes from plane to plane), but the IATA gives the general rule that dimensions should not exceed 22 inches in length, 18 inches in width, and 10 inches in depth. These dimensions include any exterior pockets, wheels, and handles, albeit with the telescoping handle retracted. 

A smart bag is any bag with integrated tech capabilities. Most often for carry-on bags, this means a built-in battery pack that powers a USB charge port so you can keep your electronics going throughout your journey. Be aware that the battery should be removable in case you have to check your bag since lithium-ion batteries cannot be put in the hold.

Before cleaning your bag, you should check the manufacturer’s guidelines since the process will differ depending on the materials. However, you can generally use a soft-bristled brush (softside luggage) or a damp cloth (soft and hardside luggage) to spot-clean any dirt or stains. Dry your bag entirely before storing it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. 

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert. After traveling across six continents for everything from scientific expeditions to gap year adventures, family vacations, and across-the-world emigration, she’s well-versed in the art of packing the perfect carry-on bag and knows which features are most helpful.

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Best Carry-On Luggage in Canada

• Updated: January 26, 2024
• Category: Gear , Outdoors

Madeinca.ca is supported by our Canadian readers. This means we may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Read more

Carry on luggage is becoming ever more appealing, especially taking into consideration fees for checked baggage. The practicality of carry on luggage has resulted in a wide range of options available for Canadians. You may find yourself not knowing which one to pick, or which will suit you best.

To help with this search, we have used extensive research to compile a list of the best carry on luggage in Canada for 2024. We based our research on features that are important to Canadians, and here’s an in-depth look at what each of these options has to offer you. You’ll find carry-on luggage for every trip you plan to take in the future, as well as durable bags for flights with limited space.

The 8 Best Carry-On Luggage Options in Canada for 2024

• Best Overall: Travelers Club Luggage 20” Chicago Expandable Spinner Carry-On Luggage
• Best Convenience:  SwissGear Spinner Carry-On Luggage
• Best for Couples:  Atlantic Tribute II
• Best Durability:  Samsonite Omni Hardside Spinner
• Best Under Seat:  Traveler’s Club Smart Carry-On Luggage
• Best for Business Travel:  TravelPro Maxlite 5 Carry-On Luggage
• Best Lightweight: Travelpro Maxlite Air Expandable Luggage
• Best for Budget Canadian Shoppers:  Wrangler Carry-On 20-Inch Luggage

Why Did We Choose This Carry-On Luggage in Canada?

Each carry-on luggage that made this list did so for several reasons. Our picks stood out in different categories, displaying various features, perks, and uses for a wide range of Canadians shopping for the best carry-on luggage in 2024. Here are some product highlights that explain our thought process and recommendations.

The Travelers Club Luggage 20” Chicago Expandable Spinner Carry-On Luggage is our top overall choice for Canadian buyers. It combines material quality, organizational features, a smart design, ergonomics, and reasonable pricing. It also happens to have the safest dimensions to meet air travel requirements.

The  SwissGear Spinner Carry-On Luggage  is a convenient option. This choice is made from thick ABS, offering scratch and damage resistance. It includes 360º spinner wheels for easy transport, and features a split-case design that allows you to fill it up with more ease and versatility.

Couples can benefit from using the  Atlantic Tribute II . This is one of the best carry-on luggages in Canada that can serve two people while still passing most airline inspections.

The  Samsonite Omni Hardside Spinner  is a re-engineered option that offers great durability. It has a full-zip interior and includes a TSA lock for additional protection while traveling. This luggage comes with all-side expansion options, making it easier to pack and store belongings.

Those seeking a convenient under seat option should consider the  Travelers Club Smart Carry-On Luggage . This choice comes with skating wheels for easy portability, along with a side USB port that can facilitate device charging. The interior is fully-lined and includes accessory pockets, while the open side pocket has easy access to essential belongings.

The  TravelPro Maxlite 5  is our top recommendation for stylish and functional carry-on luggage. Canadian businessmen and businesswomen can count on it during long and tiring trips.

The Travelpro Maxlite Air Expandable Luggage is a great option for those in need of a lightweight option. This carry-on luggage is made from polycarbonate and designed to be as flexible and impact-absorbing as possible. The carry on has zippered dividers and an accessory pocket, allowing Canadians to easily store and organize their belongings.

We wanted to find an ideal choice for the budget traveller. The  Wrangler Carry-On 20-Inch Luggage  is a solid option and doesn’t compromise safety and durability despite its budget-friendly price.

Best Overall

Travelers club luggage 20” chicago expandable spinner carry-on luggage.

• Product Dimensions: 50.8 x 33 x 20.32 cm
• Product Weight: 2.5 kg
• Material: ABS
• Shell Type: Hard Shell
• Handles: Top and Side

It's Great For:

• All airline travel
• Taller users
• Protecting fragile items
• Extra capacity with compression

If you need the best carry-on luggage in Canada, this Travelers Club Luggage option might be one that ticks all the boxes. It weighs 2.5 kg and measures 50.8 x 33 x 20.32 centimetres. It’s small enough to pass airport security checks, and you can store it in the overhead compartment to never lose sight of it.

The luggage comes in teal, gray, black, and other colour options with delicate patterns to make it look more attractive. The model has double-spinner wheels with 360 degrees of mobility. That allows users to carry it on almost any terrain with ease. In addition, the carry-on luggage for Canadians has a fully lined interior that protects your clothes and other items from the rugged shell.

You may also appreciate the dual handle system that lets you lift it with ease and carry the luggage as a suitcase. The expandable design ensures you can fit more items for your trip, and the compression bands will keep them snug.

While it doesn’t have anything other than an accessory pocket, packing laptops and other gadgets is quite safe. The luggage has a hard ABS shell that can take a serious pounding without damaging fragile items.

Key Features

• Double Spinner Wheels.  The double spinner wheels add 360º mobility to this simple carry-on case. It’s easy to move it around through busy airports, escalators, and more.
• Dual Handle System. This system adds versatility to any trip, as you can lift this carry on at any time and use it like a suitcase. 
• Impact Resistant. The hard ABS shell exterior of the carry on makes it a great choice for those worried about shock absorption. 
• Great Compatibility. This is an ideal choice for air travel as it meets international airline regulations for carry on luggage. 

Our Expert’s Take

“The hard shell of this luggage makes it extremely durable, and the double spinner wheels make it extremely easy to transport through the airport. You’ll be on your way in no time!”

Best Convenience

Swissgear spinner carry-on luggage.

• Product Dimensions: 35.56 x 22.86 x 54.61 cm
• Product Weight: 2.81 kg
• Handles: Top
• Canadians seeking convenient travel
• International travelers
• Those looking for ergonomic comfort
• People wanting stand-out design

The SwissGear Spinner Carry-On Luggage can be an ideal option for Canadians looking for convenience while traveling abroad. This lightweight option is made from ABS but has a lightweight design, making it easier to transport. It comes with 360º spinner wheels, as well as a retractable push button locking handle, and a top handle for more portability options.

Canadians who prefer more interesting designs in their luggage will enjoy this SwissGear option. It has a split-case design on the interior, with elastic tie-down straps for extra versatility. This gives you more space to keep your belongings safe and organized, and for extra security you can use the zippered privacy pocket for those items that require more safe-guarding.

This scratch-resistant option offers great durability with a practical design. Made to last, each of the premium materials used to build this carry on was carefully selected to provide long-lasting wear. The innovative design features weather-resistant materials and packing versatility with the interior compartment and storage options.

Easy mobility is ensured with this carry on thanks to the spinner wheels and the reinforced top handle, as well the retractable handle. All of these features can contribute to a smooth and straightforward traveling experience for Canadians.

• Split-Case Design. The innovative design provides more space for belongings and keeps them secure and better organised. 
• Enhanced Durability. The materials used to build this carry on were selected to provide long-term durability. Even if you travel often, this case will hold up for years to come.
• Easy Mobility. The 360º spinner wheels combined with the reinforced top handle provide great portability options even through busy airports. 
• Lightweight Style. The carry on has an ABS exterior for extra protection but features a lightweight and stylish build that makes it even more convenient.

“The locking handle on this luggage makes it stand out. Between the weather-resistant materials and easy-glide wheels, this luggage is great for any type of weather.”

Best for Couples

Atlantic tribute ii.

• Product Dimensions: 50.8 x 39.5 x 27.9 cm
• Product Weight: 1.86 kg
• Material: Water-Resistant ABS Plastic
• Handles: Single
• Canadian couples
• Travelling in harsh environments
• People who need privacy pockets

If you want one of the best carry-on luggages in Canada for international travel, the Atlantic Tribute II is a solid choice. This carry-on luggage measures 50.8 x 39.5 x 27.9 centimetres. It is tough, spacious, and easy to carry, with a smooth action locking handle and a sturdy top handle ready to support overstuffed luggage.

The interior has good lining and a split-case design. The tie-down compression straps are excellent if you want to fold your clothes, save space, and prevent fragile items from moving. In addition, you have a separate privacy compartment with a solid zipper to store other items.

The Atlantic Tribute II has plastic spinner wheels with 360-degree mobility. While they can make some noise, the wheels are as sturdy as they come.

Canadians looking for carry-on luggage may appreciate the ABS hard shell. It’s thick, tough, and scratch-resistant. That means it’s ideal for travelling by any means of transportation and during all weather conditions. While not waterproof, the luggage has high water resistance.

Furthermore, the Atlantic Tribute II is designed by one of the top holiday luggage manufacturers with over a century of experience in the industry. Its robust frames, versatility, and overall light weight make it a solid choice for Canadians going on holiday.

• Weather-Resistant. The materials used for this carry on provide some convenient protection from the elements as you travel. 
• Neat Packing. This option comes with neat organization options that can keep your belongings protected and stored in separate categories. 
• Privacy Pocket. There is a zippered privacy pocket located on the interior of the carry-on, perfect for securing specific belongings. 
• Sturdy Design. The tough ABS shell and the spinner wheels provide sturdiness and stability to the carry-on, keeping it portable and impact-resistant.

“Couples who share carry-on luggage will love this full plastic luggage. The unique storage design makes it easy for both users to pack what they need.”

Best Durability

Samsonite omni hardside spinner.

• Product Dimensions: 24.13 x 38.1 x 55.88 cm
• Product Weight: 3.08 kg
• Material: Polycarbonate
• Canadians seeking durability
• Travelers looking for good mobility
• Those wishing for all-side expansion
• People who want visual appeal

The Samsonite Omni Hardside Spinner is a durable carry-on option that adheres to the regulations of most major airlines. Canadian travelers can choose this carry-on for its appealing visual design, or for its impressive lightweight engineering. Extra resistance and style is provided by the micro-diamond texture on the shell, designed to prevent scratching damage.

This carry-on option was built with durability in mind, expected to withstand rough travel conditions. The 100% polycarbonate exterior is enhanced by the 360º spinner wheels, which provide great mobility as you travel. There is a built-in TSA lock for convenient safety that won’t provide any hassle as you go through security.

This lightweight design features a push-button handle with wider fit to keep you comfortable as you take your carry-on along with you on trips. This pull handle has several stages and it is made from durable aluminum. For additional convenience, there is a retracting top handle, as well as a retracting side handle. This allows you to easily maneuver the carry on whenever you need to switch to other carrying options.

The TSA lock can be found on the side of the carry-on for easy access. This stylish design can enhance the look and convenience of your travel experiences.

• Durable Build. This carry on is designed to withstand impact and provide a convenient packing choice for a long time.
• Micro-Diamond Texture. This reinforces the polycarbonate exterior by providing additional resistance against scratches and impact. 
• Built-in Lock.  A built-in TSA lock on the side of the case protects your belongings. Even if you have to let your carry-on out of sight, this can help ease your mind.
• Visual Appeal. The design of the carry-on makes it stand out among other options. In a sea of dark, drab luggage, you’ll always be able to spot which suitcase is yours.

“If you need a more durable carry-on, the Samsonite Omni Hardside Spinner is a great option. It’s also extremely lightweight and comes in a wide variety of colours.”

Best Under Seat

Traveler's club smart carry-on luggage.

• Product Dimensions: 35.56 x 21.59 x 38.1 cm
• Product Weight: 2.27 kg
• Material: 1680D Polyester
• Shell Type: Soft Shell
• Canadians seeking under seat options
• Those who prefer traveling light
• Business trips
• Travelers looking for durability

The Travelers Club Smart Carry-On Luggage is a highly convenient option that fits perfectly under the seats of most major airlines. This stylish option is made from durable 1680D polyester and designed to withstand long-term wear. On the side of the carry on, you’ll find a USB port. While the power bank and cord aren’t included, Canadian travelers can add them to convert the carry on into a practical charging device.

Also on the side of the carry-on, there is an open pocket offering quick and easy access to essential belongings you might need while traveling, such as passports or tickets. The interior of the carry on is fully lined, and there are several accessory pockets for more convenient use.

For easy transport, this option comes with a telescopic push-button trolley handle. It can also fit small laptops, making this an ideal choice for short trips, especially business-related ones. The top handle allows for easy carrying when you want to switch from the pull handle. On the front of the bag, there is a multi-use pocket that provides additional organization options. If you want, you can use this bag in addition to another carry-on bag or a suitcase by easily stacking them together.

• Convenient Design. This option is easy to carry and easy to store under the plane seat in front of you. It also adheres to most airline regulations. 
• USB Port.  A side USB port allows you to charge your devices on the go, which is a nice feature for this carry-on luggage. You won’t spend long searching for an outlet while you wait at the airport.
• Handle Variety. There is a pull handle as well as a top handle. You can carry this luggage however works best for you, and the handle allows for easy access in overheat storage compartments.
• Durable Materials . The carry on is designed to withstand wear. Even if you travel often, this luggage will last for years to come.

“This soft shell carry-on is perfect for storing under your seat on long flights. There are plenty of outside pockets for everything you need to access, too.”

Best for Business Travel

Travelpro maxlite 5 carry-on luggage.

• Product Dimensions: 53.34 x 40.64 x 20.32 cm
• Product Weight: 2.45 kg
• Material: Duracord-Coated Polyester
• Business travels
• Extended trips
• Packing clothes and electronics
• Stylish accessorizing

Travelling through multiple stops requires versatile carry-on luggage. The best carry-on luggages in Canada for businessmen and businesswomen might be the TravelPro Maxlite 5. Its ergonomics make it easy to pull, lift overhead, and stuff in various luggage compartments. Even the zippers are designed for ease of use and increased strength.

One of the standout features is the ball-bearing wheels. While the Maxlite 5 carry-on luggage available to Canadians doesn’t have 360-degrees mobility, it has impressive wheels. They glide effortlessly across most terrains, are easier to pull and provide stability when turning. Likewise, they are quieter than other alternatives.

The front zippered pocket allows users to expand the carry-on luggage two extra inches. The pocket’s tapered shape helps the stability.

Although it doesn’t have a hard shell, it’s more than equipped to endure long trips. The exterior is water and stain-resistant, thanks to its Duraguard coating.

On the inside, the TravelPro Maxlite 5 has adjustable compression straps, soft lining, and an additional lid pocket. The design is sufficient for carrying clothes, shoes, documents, and a 15.6-inch laptop. And due to the hold-down strap design, it’s unlikely clothing items will wrinkle during your trip.

• Sturdy Handle. The carry-on provides extra support through the sturdy aluminum handle, which adds comfort via the rubber grip. 
• Roomy Interior. The spacious inner compartment provides ample storage opportunity with compression straps to keep everything in place.
• Stable Transport. The sturdy ball-bearing wheels included with the carry-on make transportation easier, no matter the terrain. 
• Duraguard Coating. This superior coating provides resistance against water and stains. 

“The roomy interior makes this soft-shell luggage a great choice for longer trips. The exterior isn’t a hard shell, but it’s water and stain-resistant. You can travel with confidence that your belongings are safe.”

Best Lightweight

Travelpro maxlite air expandable luggage.

• Product Dimensions: 27.94 x 44.45 x 69.85 cm
• Product Weight: 3.86 kg
• Domestic trips
• Canadians looking for versatile carrying
• Those seeking smooth glide
• Travelers wishing for easy organization

The Travelpro Maxlite Air Expandable Luggage can be a great choice for travelers seeking a lightweight option for air travel. Ideally suited to domestic trips, this option meets size restrictions for most major airlines. This hard shell carry-on comes with 8 spinner wheels with 360º maneuverability, offering a smooth glide for Canadians transiting through airports.

There are 2 carry handles for enhanced versatility, one located at the top and the other on the side. To add further carrying options, there is also a grip on the bottom of the carry-on, so you can get the most out of transporting this Travelpro in any way you wish. The hard shell on the exterior is made from polycarbonate, which provides extra protection against impact, keeping your belongings safe.

There is a spacious compartment inside the carry-on, and it can expand to provide additional room. For more organization options, the interior also includes zippered divider panels to keep your belongings neatly stored. There is an accessory pocket, and all the interior lining is made from recycled plastic bottles, which can appeal to the eco-conscious Canadian.

This option from Travelpro comes with a built-in TSA lock for extra protection as you travel. The stylish design of the exterior can add visual appeal to your traveling experience.

• Lightweight Design. The build of this carry-on is made from lightweight yet durable materials.  
• Spacious Interior. The roomy compartment on the interior of the carry on can expand and provide additional space while packing. 
• Smooth Glide. The 360º spinner wheels included with the carry on can provide a smooth traveling experience. 
• Versatile Carrying. The side and top handles, along with the bottom grip, allow you to have various carrying options, depending on your preferences.

“This expandable option is great when you need more space for your travel essentials. The interior divider panels keep everything stored where you can easily find it.”

Best for Budget Canadian Shoppers

Wrangler carry-on 20-inch luggage.

• Product Dimensions: 54.61 x 36.83 x 24.13 cm
• Product Weight: 2.9 kg
• Material: Thick ABS Interior Lining
• Bigger users
• Weekend couple trips
• Budget shoppers
• Most forms of travel

You don’t have to pay a fortune for decent travel luggage. This Wrangler model in a Navy Blue colour is one of the best carry-on luggages in Canada for budget shoppers. Its hard shell ABS exterior offers protection while keeping the case relatively lightweight.

At 54.61 x 36.83 x 24.13 centimetres, it should meet air travel requirements for most airlines. However, since it’s a bulkier model, you might want to double-check before booking a flight or settling on this Wrangler carry-on luggage.

For the money, this luggage offers impressive storage capacity for clothes, gadgets, shoes, etc. It even includes compression straps to keep everything snug and prevent wrinkles. The top section of the luggage has a dividing zipper that can help store thinner items like passports, charging cables, documents, or even a shirt you don’t want to iron later.

The bottom of the carry-on luggage has standard spinner wheels with 360-degrees mobility. The plastic wheels also feature impact protection reinforcement to prevent damage from tipping. Although the luggage doesn’t have a side handle, the compact design and rugged exterior make it easy to grip and lift.

Just note that the case is on the heavier side at 2.9 kg. It’s better suited for bigger Canadian carry-on luggage users. Given its capacity and interior design features, this Wrangler carry-on luggage suitcase can accommodate two people and offer enough storage space for a weekend trip or a brief four-day vacation.

• Great Storage. This option comes with spacious storage capacity that can make packing and traveling a much smoother experience. 
• Suitable for Two. The carry-on can accommodate the needs of two travelers going on a trip together. There are enough compartments and room for a couple on a weekend trip, with room left to spare.
• Robust Design. The ABS exterior adds sturdiness to the design, and keeps your belongings protected from some impact.
• Reinforced Wheels. The 360º spinner wheels are reinforced with impact protection technology to provide extra safety and stability. 

“If you need a budget carry-on suitcase, the Wrangler 20” Carry-on Luggage is the perfect choice. It’s great for longer trips and offers better interior capacity. Two people can use the same carry-on and reduce luggage costs on your flight.”

Comparing the Best Carry-On Luggage in Canada

How we selected the best carry-on luggage for canadians.

Our goal is simple and has remained the same for years. We aim to keep track of current trends in consumer products and give people relevant advice to make smarter buying decisions. Many factors matter when buying the best carry-on luggage in Canada.

We give recommendations after evaluating several products in great detail. We collect data, make comparisons, analyze reviews, and look at multiple factors to determine the best use scenario for each carry-on luggage for Canadian consumers.

Here are some indicators we looked at when compiling the list of the best carry-on luggage in Canada.

• Size. Size matters significantly for carry-on luggage. It can determine its capacity, but also if it is permitted for airlines and other travel methods. Make sure to keep dimensions in mind as you choose your carry-on luggage.
• Material. The material can dictate the level of protection, durability, and longevity of carry-on luggage available in Canada. You want a suitcase that will last for many journeys, no matter how you are traveling.
• Comfort Features. We looked at handle styles, sizes, padding, and other perks that make carry-on luggage easy to pull and use. The easier it is to pull your luggage, the less hassle you’ll face at the airport.
• Design Features. The design is arguably as important as the dimensions. It indicates the number of compartments, zipper styles, organizational potential, etc.

Why Use Carry-On Luggage in Canada?

Canadians use bags, purses, backpacks, and giant suitcases to carry what they need from point A to B. But not all luggage is created equal, and not everyone has the same needs and preferences.

Of all the choices, carry-on luggage might be the most versatile. It can adapt to many situations, and you can find many designs that cater to your needs. Carry-on luggage combines flexibility with capacity and comfort so you can have the best trip without leaving anything behind.

How to Choose Carry-On Luggage for Canadians

If you want to ditch traditional suitcases or your backpack or enjoy more convenience while travelling, carry-on luggage is an ideal choice. They’re designed to provide the ultimate comfort when lugging around personal items regardless of your means of transport.

But how you travel, what you carry, and where you’re going can make specific carry-on luggage inefficient.

Knowing what to look for and how each characteristic can shape your experience is essential for buying the best carry-on luggage in Canada.

Carry-on luggage can have many uses. But many people buy them for air travel. Canadians who need carry-on luggage probably need it to fit overhead airplane compartments. That’s why size is crucial when purchasing carry-on luggage in Canada.

Bags must pass through cages, measuring tapes, or beat various measuring tools. If they don’t meet the requirements, passengers must check their bags, which can be expensive.

Naturally, airlines may impose different size requirements. However, a bag that fits within the 22 x 14 x 9-inch dimensions should be good for most major airlines. It’s important to note that the best carry-on luggage in Canada for air travel must meet those measurements when packed.

That’s something to remember when choosing the bag material and shape and stuffing it with items. Therefore, bags smaller than 22 x 14 x 9 inches are often preferred.

When checking carry-on luggage, you can opt for something bigger. Most airline carriers accept baggage up to 29 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches.

But the best carry-on luggage in Canada doesn’t have to meet airline requirements. Not everyone travels by plane, and carry-on luggage is still one of the most versatile methods of carrying items for a trip. Car trunks and trains can accommodate larger luggage. So, it’s essential to choose the size based on your method of transport and item requirements.

If you do plan on travelling by plane, make sure to check with the airline or airport you use most often. They may have different requirements for the size and weight of your carry-on luggage. Make sure to purchase luggage that fits these requirements for the best results.

Picking suitable material is crucial to protecting personal items and meeting carry-on luggage transport standards. For example, flexible materials can allow you to overstuff the luggage. That’s fine for Canadians who check carry-on luggage on airplanes or anyone who doesn’t fly.

But a more robust material with minimal elasticity is preferred for air travel. The best carry-on luggage in Canada for air travel should have a material that doesn’t bulge.

The material choice is situational, like everything else about carry-on luggage. Waterproofing isn’t necessary but highly recommended in all situations. A thicker, more durable exterior shell is recommended when travelling with fragile items and electronic devices. A thicker shell leads to increased durability and better protection for your items.

On the other hand, a more elastic or flexible bag can help you fit more inside the luggage. The give on the sides can be critical if you need to pack a little bit more. Keep this in mind as you shop for the best luggage in Canada.

While carry-on luggage is easy to move, some can be heavy, even when empty. Ideally, you wouldn’t want weighty carry-on luggage if you don’t need extra protection for your items. You might also consider possible airline maximums when buying carry-on luggage in Canada.

Meeting the dimension requirements while surpassing the weight limit will require you to check the luggage. And depending on the weight, it can cost a lot. 

Having lightweight carry-on luggage is also a matter of convenience. Although it has rollers, dragging along a few extra pounds won’t be easy or comfortable for everyone.

Comfort Features

The goal of buying carry-on luggage for Canadians is to get the most comfort possible, but that depends on several features—for example, the wheel mount style. Having 360-degree wheel mounts means you can pull the luggage around anywhere. It also prevents tipping when changing directions and is less punishing on the wrists.

Having dual carry handles can help. Sometimes you may need to carry the luggage like a suitcase. In addition, two handles make it easier to lift carry-on luggage in overhead compartments, taller car trunks, etc.

Some Canadian carry-on luggage buyers may also require cushioned handles. The better the padding, the easier it is to lug your items in airports, on sidewalks, up the stairs, etc.

Other users may prefer longer telescoping handles. Ideally, the handle should come up to your waist. It puts your arm in a comfortable position and makes pulling and turning easier. While shorter users can get away with less, tall users need longer telescoping handles to avoid backaches.

Compartment Design

Few carry-on luggage designs are simplistic these days. The best carry-on luggage in Canada for air travel must have a few exterior pockets and compartments. It makes accessing in-flight items straightforward and efficient.

A flat document pouch may interest people who need to read various materials on business trips. An electronics pouch isn’t hard to find, but its quality can differ. Extra padding for a gadget pouch is preferred, as is an exterior position.

Some carry-on luggage available in Canada comes with umbrella clips and extra gear straps. Neither are mandatory, but they can increase your quality of life and help you carry more gear and accessories easily.

Lastly, you may consider the internal organization of the compartments. A few dedicated interior pouches or compartments for books, shoes, clothes, gadgets and other items can help you pack faster and more efficiently.

Additional Factors

Finding the best carry-on luggage in Canada may come down to additional considerations.

• Brand. Choosing carry-on luggage in Canada from a top manufacturer can give you peace of mind. Premium manufacturers tend to have more efficient designs, use better materials, and ensure longer durability.
• Warranty. Carry-on luggage can take a lot of punishment, especially when checked on an airplane or when travelling through bad weather and harsh terrain. Having a more extended warranty may help offset damage from wear and tear. Another important aspect is the policy. Not all manufacturers cover airline luggage damages. That could be a vital consideration when buying carry-on luggage in Canada for air travel.
• Reviews. Checking user reviews is always a good idea, no matter what you buy. Reading what people with similar needs went through can help you make a more informed decision.
• Dedicated water pouch. An easy-access water pouch can be great for carry-on luggage. However, you might not want one if your goal is to take the luggage with you on a plane.
• Built-in charger. Embedding technology in modern luggage is common practice these days. A built-in charger or battery can help keep your gadgets alive during long trips.
• Hidden compartments. If you lose your carry-on luggage or it gets stolen, chances are you won’t get back precious items and documents. But secret compartments still help you separate certain items from the rest and may even offer faster access to passports, cash, etc.
• Ventilation. Waterproof carry-on luggage for Canadians is excellent for protecting your items. But stuffing luggage without opening it for days can cause your things to get a musty smell. Tiny air vents or mesh panels create ventilation and can keep your clothes fresh.
• Laundry bag. Some carry-on luggage comes with a removable laundry bag. That can be a great feature if you expect to do some laundry on your trip. It can also help when you have no means of doing laundry and lack something to store your dirty clothes without affecting other items. Removable laundry bags can help keep the smell in and are compatible with washing machines.
• Locks. Not everyone needs to lock their carry-on luggage if they keep it close. But it can offer extra protection and peace of mind. Just be mindful of where you’re travelling. The lock should be compatible with master keys, such as those used by the TSA. Otherwise, airline security agents might break the lock to inspect the luggage.

How to Safely Use Carry-On Luggage in Canada

It may seem that anyone can figure out how to use carry-on luggage efficiently. But there are some safety tips to keep in mind for maximizing the service life and protecting your items.

• Wrap carry-on luggage yourself if you plan on checking it on your next flight. It may save you a few bucks, and you can ensure it’s adequately protected from scratching and tearing.
• Familiarise yourself with the 3-1-1 rule. Most airlines won’t let you carry anything over a quart-sized bag with gels, creams, liquids, etc. Furthermore, each item must not contain more than 3.4 ounces. That said, you may want to avoid storing any liquids in carry-on luggage to prevent spills.
• Always keep a close eye on your carry-on luggage to deter thieves.
• Check the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning the bag. Not all carry-on luggage materials are friendly to synthetic cleaning products.
• Lock the telescoping handle in a position that puts minimum strain on your arm and wrist. Usually, that means getting the handle up to the same level as your waist.
• Beware of special airline restrictions besides the usual involving guns, chemicals, ammunition, alcohol, weapons, flammable liquids, etc.
• Try to lug the carry-on luggage at an angle to prevent tipping and make it easier to pull.

Frequently Asked Questions

Carry on luggage is becoming increasingly popular, with people opting out of paying expensive checked luggage fees on airlines and packing lighter than before. Choosing carry on luggage is a great choice for those who wish to keep their belongings with them at all times and save some money. Carry on luggage is also great for those travelling by car, as you can easily fit more suitcases in the vehicle compared to large checked size bags.

Many Canadians travel with family, including children, and it can be tricky figuring out which carry on luggage is best for them. While some opt for child-size luggage, most people choose standard-size carry on luggage for their children that is ultra lightweight and has spinner wheels for easy mobility. The Travelpro Maxlite Air Expandable Luggage is a good choice for kids, as it is one of the lightest and easiest to move on the market.

Those who are flying should always check the individual airline’s policies before heading to the airport with their carry on luggage. Each airline will have specific policies in place, which can vary significantly. For Canadians who are headed to an international destination, the rules on carry-on baggage are even more restrictive, so it is always important to review them before traveling.

Carry on luggage ranges in cost depending on brand, style and material. Typically, users can expect to pay between $80 to several hundred dollars. The more durable the material and high-quality features like sturdy wheels, USB ports and packing compartments, the higher the cost of luggage will go. Those who travel often and think they will be getting a lot of use out of their carry on luggage may want to consider a superior model that will last longer, even if at a higher initial cost.

Many Canadians use carry on luggage for day trips, whether by car or plane. For business travellers who need a smaller bag that looks professional, we think the Travelers Club Smart Carry-On Luggage is an ideal choice. This small carry on luggage will fit right under the seat on planes or is easy to carry in the car or on trains. You can easily pack everything you need overnight without the bulk of a larger carry on suitcase.

Carry on luggage can last for many years with proper care and handling. Those who do not check their carry on luggage will find that their suitcase will last longer due to not being roughly handled on conveyor belts or being tossed around by airport workers. Always gently place your luggage on the ground if it has wheels, and examine the handles of suitcases and duffles on a regular basis. If your carry on luggage comes with a warranty, ensure registration if applicable and keep all receipts in case you need to file a claim.

Spinner wheel on carry on luggage is becoming more and more standard, and most of them have a full 360-degree rotation. Choosing a suitcase with spinner wheels ensures smoother pulling and easier maneuvering, especially in busy airports or crowded cities. Canadians with mobility issues will benefit from luggage with spinner wheels, as it is less likely to have to carry or forcefully move their suitcase.

As Canadians, we grew tired of the tariff battles with the US and unfair practices of other partners. In July 2018, we decided to do something about it, starting to compile a list of Canadian products and services so you can rest easy knowing your dollars are having their maximum impact in the Canadian economy.

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The Best Carry-On Luggage

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.

Traveling well is not always easy. Keeping your suitcase with you when you fly not only protects your belongings from loss or damage but may help you avoid extra fees as well.

If you decide to do so, you need a good carry-on bag.

Over the past 10 years, we’ve handled, tested, and traveled with 67 bags from more than 35 brands, and we remain convinced that the Travelpro Platinum Elite offers the best balance of value and quality for most travelers.

It packs five days’ worth of clothes into standard US carry-on dimensions 1 and has premium touches you might expect from a $600 bag at about half the price.

It’s a bag that you can rely on for life, even if it’s damaged by airlines —a rarity at any price.

Everything we recommend

Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner

The best soft-sided carry-on.

This spinner carry-on offers the best balance of size, value, reliability, and durability, plus high-end details. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

Buying Options

Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard

A bit more capacity and extra wheel durability.

This two-wheeled carry-on bag isn’t as maneuverable, but it offers slightly more space, a garment folder, and larger, more durable wheels.

Away The Carry-On

The best hard-sided carry-on.

This great-looking and relatively resilient piece of hard-sided luggage has top-of-the-line components—including wheels as smooth-rolling as any we’ve tested.

Away The Bigger Carry-On

Slightly more room, but you might get checked.

With more capacity than Away’s standard carry-on, this suitcase is sized appropriately for most flights. On smaller planes, though, you may get gate-checked.

Budget pick

Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Lightweight and appealingly inexpensive.

Remarkably well priced for a reputable brand, this is an ideal lightweight pick and provides many features of luggage costing nearly twice as much.

Upgrade pick

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

A soft-sided carry-on that fits more in less.

This carry-on bag offers superlative build quality, plenty of expandable room, and a uniquely effective compression system. It’s a buy-it-for-life suitcase.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ 2-Wheel Expandable Carry-On

More room, bigger wheels, less maneuverability.

If you’re willing to give up maneuverability for more space and bigger wheels, this is also a great option.

Carl Friedrik The Carry-On

A more luxe hard-sided carry-on.

Luxury touches and a strong polycarbonate and aluminum design give this bag a standout look with exceptional feel and performance. It does cost nearly $200 more than the comparably sized Away bag, though.

Yeti Crossroads 22″/35L Wheeled Luggage

A bag built for tough conditions.

A polycarbonate back and rugged wheels make this design suited for rougher travel over difficult surfaces. However, it has a limited warranty, and it’s somewhat unwieldy to handle.

What to consider

Four-wheel bags, aka spinners, are easier to maneuver down tight airplane aisles, but two-wheel bags will always be more durable .

Hard-sided looks better to most people, but soft-sided luggage withstands the bumps and knocks of travel for longer .

Plenty of reputable brands offer lifetime warranties; it’s generally worth paying a little extra for the peace of mind .

Depending on where you travel, you might need to look for specialty luggage sizes .

We’ve also included picks that stood out for their form and individual functionality: an upgrade with best-in-class compression, a pick made of polycarbonate , an upgraded hard-sided case with latch closures and an aluminum frame, a rolling soft-top hybrid , and a budget pick that’s also the best ultra-light suitcase we can find.

Travelpro’s Platinum Elite line of luggage is still our top pick after 10 years of testing. It addresses the concerns of most travelers for an affordable price while offering the best warranty against potential airline damage in the industry (as long as you register the luggage within 120 days of purchase, which you can do in minutes).

The Platinum Elite features smooth-rolling, replaceable wheels, as well as solid and comfortable telescoping handles and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid internal chassis. Travelpro also provides a full catalog of other replaceable parts . Instead of chasing the smart-bag moment, Travelpro added an exterior pocket with a USB pass-through extension that lets you insert your own battery pack for charging your phone. And weighing less than 8 pounds when empty, the Platinum Elite is dead in the center of average weight for bags this size.

In our view, soft-sided luggage lasts longer and shows less wear, but if you prefer the look of a hard-sided bag, Away’s The Carry-On is our choice. Like our other picks, this bag stands out for its high-end components: YKK zippers, smooth-running wheels, and a well-braced handle. Its strong but flexible polycarbonate shell shows scratches—however, after seven years of using the Away Carry-On, our testers have found that it is capable of enduring most of the trials of travel with fewer knocks than other similar models we’ve tested.

Away also makes a slightly larger version of the same model: The Bigger Carry-On . It conforms to carry-on size for most major airliners, but you might be asked to gate-check it on smaller planes.

Similar to our soft-sided picks, this Away bag is backed by a limited lifetime warranty. And though the coverage doesn’t explicitly protect against airline damage, it does apply to any damage that an airline could possibly dish out—specifically, but not limited to, the shell cracking or wheels breaking off.

Some companies have tried to shave off a few pounds from their standard luggage designs to make so-called ultra-light luggage. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner is the best of these bags we’ve seen, and it comes with the pedigree of our top pick but not quite as strong a warranty.

The Maxlite 5 is just over 2 pounds lighter than our top pick—that’s the weight of two or three pairs of jeans. It’s not a huge difference, but if you have trouble lifting luggage over your head and prefer an easier-to-manage suitcase, the Maxlite 5 may be your choice. This bag is also the best one we’ve found under $200, with almost all the benefits of luggage nearly twice the price.

For the more frequent flyer who is willing to invest in a higher-quality bag, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On . Every detail of this bag, from the zippers to the wheels to the wrinkle-resistant suit compartment, is made to the highest standards, and it has a higher proportion of usable space than any other spinner bag we tested.

Briggs & Riley boosts this extra capacity with a ratcheting compression system that easily presses an entire extra outfit (if not more) into the same external dimensions as most other carry-ons. It’s simple, impressive, and unmatched by any other brand’s compression system.

The Expandable Spinner version is also the only spinner luggage model we tested with a built-in garment folder, which helps shirts and pants stay wrinkle-free if you pack them well. If things go awry, Briggs & Riley has a catalog of replaceable parts and a global network of repair centers , as well as a reliable lifetime warranty covering repairs for airline damage.

For some people, Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On may be worth the extra cost. Behind the maturity of Italian leather accents and polish of higher-end Hinomoto wheels, the Carl Friedrik Carry-On bypasses the biggest compromise in most polycarbonate designs: the stitched-in zipper. Incorporating an aluminum frame around the center of the case and two latch locks, it feels comfortingly secure and well structured where other luggage tends to sag or bend away.

There’s a potential catch, however: The flex in a polycarbonate design (and most luggage, incidentally) is its strength. The more robust a piece of luggage becomes—by replacing, for instance, a zipper with an aluminum frame—the greater the chance that if something hits the case hard enough, the frame can bend or break. That said, you need to hit a frame like this with an extreme amount of focused force for that to happen. And Carl Friedrik provides a lifetime warranty that appears to cover airline damage in the event that an airline doesn’t compensate you within 14 days.

The Yeti Crossroads 22”/35L Wheeled Luggage represents the best of a relatively niche type of luggage design. Call it a hybrid model—a blend of a soft-sided luggage on top and hard-sided luggage on the back—that lends itself to fairly specific circumstances. It’s ideal for tough roads, broken streets, and slamming your luggage into uneven curbs with abandon. Do most people need this kind of luggage for their day-to-day travel? Absolutely not, and it can feel heavier than it really is. But if you do, this is the best there is—at least for the moment.

The Yeti Crossroads has everything you might expect from a brand that has built its reputation for over-the-top toughness and durability. The two heavy-duty wheels are among the largest and broadest that we’ve seen. Externally, Yeti blends a polycarbonate shell back with a water-resistant 700-denier nylon front and waterproof zippers. However, Yeti backs its luggage with only a three-year warranty and no mention of airline damage. That’s very limited protection, especially for the conditions this bag was designed for and definitely in comparison with the standards that our other picks set.

The research

Why you should trust us, how we picked and tested, our pick for the best carry-on luggage: travelpro platinum elite, our pick for the best hard-sided carry-on luggage: away the carry-on, budget pick: travelpro maxlite 5 carry-on spinner, upgrade pick for the best carry-on: briggs & riley baseline essential, upgrade pick for the best hard-sided carry-on: carl friedrik the carry-on, also great for tough conditions: yeti crossroads 35l wheeled luggage, other good carry-on luggage, what to look forward to, the competition.

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

In the 10 years we’ve been covering this category, luggage has evolved, and so has our thinking about what makes the best carry-on for most people. After spending well over 200 hours doing research and interviews and easily twice that time conducting hands-on testing, we’ve seen a few truths become clear. First, at a certain threshold—roughly over $200—most luggage is fine. It will more than likely get you from point A to point B without incident many times a year for many years. What distinguishes great luggage from everything else is mostly an attention to detail—the quality of a bag’s handle, its wheels, the frame, and stitching—and a company’s guarantee that it will stand behind its product.

Every year we try to refine our testing and find new ways to consider what it means to be the best luggage. We’ve weighed and measured suitcases, comparing our results with company claims. We’ve calculated true internal capacity with hundreds of Ping-Pong balls 2 and some decently complex math for a writer to scratch out. We’ve packed and unpacked more bags than I care to remember. We’ve studied and compared wheel bearings, wheel sizes, pocket counts, pocket quality, the curious subtleties of garment bags that will (or more often won’t) keep your clothes wrinkle-free, the strength of warranties, and repairability.

We believe that any maximally sized carry-on should be capable of holding enough clothes to last you five days with room to spare for miscellaneous necessities. Most years we aim to have two testers, one male and one female, pack two bags individually as if headed to the same wedding. 3 What we included isn’t representative of a family traveling or a couple splitting a bag, but we erred on the side of bulky, and we hope it gives you a clear idea of how much of your own stuff these bags will hold.

We looked at how each bag loaded. Was there an easy way to keep smaller items (such as socks and underwear) organized? Did it have compression straps to keep things in place? Were the straps thick enough to avoid creasing the clothes? Just how much would the bag compress? How much room was left over? Once packed, was the bag prone to tipping over?

Over the years I’ve torn bags apart to see how the frames were put together, taken apart wheels, dismantled handles, and more or less treated luggage as poorly as one person could. I’ve wheeled loaded bags around many neighborhoods, looking at how well each bag rolled and how well it handled broken sidewalks, uneven pavement, grass, bricks, dirt, and curbs. I’ve dragged bags up and down two flights of concrete stairs, noting how easy this task was and how much damage the bags sustained. For our finalists, I’ve repeated the torture test along a second, even rougher route because I like the sound that polycarbonate luggage makes when it bounces down cavernous stairwells.

In fall 2023, we asked a panel of paid testers with a wide range of body types, dexterities, and mobilities to examine our picks and share their perspectives. We’ve incorporated their feedback in this review.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner is our pick for a soft-sided carry-on; if you need a little more room, we also recommend the Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard .

It has a history of great performance. Travelpro’s Platinum Elite line has been our top pick for almost every iteration of this guide because it addresses the concerns of most travelers for an affordable price: In addition to smooth-rolling, replaceable wheels, it features solid and comfortable telescoping handles and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid 7.8-pound internal chassis. Travelpro backs it all with a lifetime warranty that covers airline damage and shipping to the repair facility (as long as you register the luggage within 120 days of purchase). Additionally, Travelpro supplies a full catalog of other replaceable parts .

It moves well across most surfaces and through most situations. The spinner bag’s configuration stands out in particular because of its MagnaTrac wheels, which magnetically snap into a forward position when the bag is moving. The small tracking assistance makes a large difference when you’re navigating the Platinum Elite through a crowded airport or down a busy street. It also has an easy-to-use, removable garment bag. After years of testing, we think the superior maneuverability of spinner luggage, along with improvements in manufacturing processes, makes four-wheel bags a better choice for most people. However, if you prefer slightly more packing capacity (the equivalent of squeezing in two more sweatshirts), larger wheels that run more smoothly over rough terrain, and a more protective built-in garment folder, 4 you may appreciate the two-wheeled 22-inch version of the Platinum Elite. One of our paid testers, who’s 6-foot-6, told us that although he could see the appeal of a spinner, “I would still choose the two-wheeler. It has a little more space, and when you’re my size, packing is just so horrible.”

It’s sized to maximize your space, but you have options. Measuring 23 by 13.5 by 9 inches, the Platinum Elite carry-on bag (in either wheel configuration) hits the upper margins of actual carry-on size limits and could get you gate-checked by an overzealous agent. However, it fits into most standard-size baggage caddies at check-in, including that of American Airlines and United Airlines. I’ve personally traveled with Travelpro carry-ons this size for more than 45,000 miles spread across 50 flights, from regional to long-haul to international routes, and I’ve never had an issue fitting within gate-side luggage sizers. If you’re nervous about getting caught at the gate or often fly in very small regional planes, Travelpro makes a 20-inch Platinum Elite as well as a slimmer international size, but they hold less (naturally) and lack a suiter insert.

It keeps clothes compacted but not creased. Inside, the Platinum Elite has a pair of tie-down straps and two broad panels with pockets that cinch down, similar in design and function to what you’d find in much more expensive Briggs & Riley luggage . Compared with the simple tie-down straps you often find in cheaper luggage, the panels do a great job of keeping things compacted without creasing clothes—a problem we’ve encountered in numerous other bags we’ve tested. Beyond that, the Platinum Elite’s internal organization system is about average. It will be familiar to anyone who has used a suitcase before, which means there’s no learning curve for optimizing the storage capacity. One long mesh pocket sits on one of the bag’s sides, and a smaller removable transparent plastic bag sits on the other side for easy TSA inspection of toiletries.

It’s tough yet flexible. The exterior is made of a hard-wearing nylon fabric, a key feature of all the bags we’ve tested. It hides scuffs and scratches, and it’s much more versatile than hard-sided bags. An expansion zipper lets you increase storage by about 30% in a pinch—although the bag is no longer carry-on compliant at that point. We prefer to use the expansion zipper as something of an ad-hoc compression system: We unzip the expansion zipper while packing the bag and then zip it at the end, tamping everything down tight. The Platinum Elite carry-on also has a variety of convenient exterior pockets, including two in the front, suitable for a sleep mask and other small miscellaneous items, and one on the side for a battery, though it can fit a bit more if necessary. It also has an accordion pocket on the front for magazines and electronic tablets.

It’s well balanced and spacious. This luggage has an 1,856-cubic-inch interior, which we measured using hundreds of Ping-Pong balls . In real-world terms (the needs of Ping-Pong champions notwithstanding), the Platinum Elite swallowed up five days’ worth of clothes with no problem and had a good deal of room to spare—and that’s without our resorting to the expansion zipper.

It has an excellent warranty. Should anything go wrong, you can take advantage of Travelpro’s generous lifetime warranty, which covers airline damage . The sole other company we’ve seen offering this extensive a warranty is Briggs & Riley, whose carry-on suitcases start at about $500. Travelpro bags have owner-serviceable parts and multiple repair centers . To get repair service, you can either drop the bag off at a repair center or ship the bag to Travelpro, the cost of which the company will cover. Keep in mind that the warranty doesn’t cover cosmetic wear.

Travelpro has a history of fixing production errors remarkably quickly. In 2019, we noticed a small uptick in Wirecutter reader complaints about zipper tabs breaking. We reached out to Travelpro, and a representative told us that a production error expanded the capacity of the front pocket of the Platinum Elite; this allowed travelers to overpack the pocket, which put excessive strain on the zipper. Travelpro identified and fixed the issue before it had reached the threshold of more than a few comments online.

Dimensions: 23.5 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 7.8 pounds Volume: 46 liters

How the Platinum Elite has held up

After nearly a decade of testing the Platinum Elite line of bags from Travelpro, we have yet to encounter a single serious issue. The fabric exterior brushes off scrapes and is easy enough to clean. Simply, it is a remarkably built bag that continues to travel well, year after year.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though the Platinum Elite rolled well in general, we are still concerned when dragging the bag up stairs. Some of the other bags we tested had long plastic bumper strips running most of the way up the length of the bag; this Travelpro model’s skid plate isn’t as big or as protective. I haven’t had an issue, but if you’re particularly rough on your luggage or uncomfortable lifting the bag over curbs or up stairs, it’s something to be aware of.

• In 2018, Travelpro added a USB-A pass-through cable to the Platinum Elite as a way to compete with so-called smart bags. We like the battery pocket, but the built-in cable itself, which routes from the pocket to a USB port less than 6 inches away, is an unnecessary item, which at best adds a potential point of failure to the bag—USB cables do not last forever. Does it ruin the bag? No. Is it a feature? Not really.

If you prefer the look of hard-sided luggage or the security of knowing that you can’t overpack your suitcase, Away’s The Carry-On is the carry-on we recommend. If you want to maximize your available carry-on space, it also comes in a slightly larger size: The Bigger Carry-On .

It can take wear and tear. Most travelers are still better off with one of our soft-sided picks than a hard-sided carry-on; soft-sided luggage shows less wear and typically lasts longer than hard-sided luggage. But the Away Carry-On’s wheels and zipper are as well made as those of our soft-sided picks, and its polycarbonate showed fewer scratches than that of hard-sided competitors.

We’ve tested the Away Carry-On for six years, traveling with it ourselves across the country and lending several units to testers and frequent travelers to see how they enjoyed using the bag. Its polycarbonate feels similar to that used on more high-end (and significantly pricier) suitcases such as the Rimowa Essential Cabin , which is more than three times as expensive.

You have options if you need extra space. Away makes a similar model of suitcase with an expandable zipper, The Carry-On Flex . The Flex is the same bag as the standard Carry-On except for the expanding center zipper and the price (it’s about $50 more). Personally, I’m not a fan of expanding zippers on suitcases. It feels like just one more thing to break. But some people may prefer having the extra flexibility.

It feels great to use. The bag itself feels good in the hands, and the wheels are noticeably better than those on any of the hard-sided competitors we tried. Away also uses YKK zippers, outclassing our top pick in that regard (Travelpro moved to Supra zippers in 2015). At this point, we’re pretty comfortable saying that years of debate over the best zipper are largely redundant, but YKK still sets the standard.

Imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Away has sparked more imitators and outright duplicates than any other brand in the past decade, in part due to its appeal with younger travelers. I’ve thought about why, and as best as I can guess, a simple polycarbonate cube dripped in limited-edition soft hues does exude a certain calm; the fact that some of those same colors also coat the exteriors of pills ending in suffixes -ax and -il is not, one assumes, accidental.

It has a great warranty. The Away Carry-On is backed by a limited lifetime warranty that protects against defects and parts breaking. Though the warranty doesn’t specifically mention airline damage, the damages it does list—cracks or breaks in the shell, wheels or handles becoming unusable, zippers that don’t work, fabric tears that render any pocket unusable—basically outline anything an airline could possibly dish out.

Dimensions (for The Carry-On): 21.7 by 14.4 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 7.5 pounds Volume: 40 liters

• The Carry-On’s sleek style comes at a cost: Its polycarbonate shell is ultimately more likely to break than the nylon fabric of our other picks.
• It lacks certain amenities, such as external pockets and a suiter, that our top picks have.
• The clamshell design, which splits down the middle and opens into two parts, can make the bag frustrating to pack and unpack. Packing cubes help, but after years of packing and unpacking soft-sided luggage with a single lid, I personally find a clamshell design to be more finicky when packing.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner is one of the lightest pieces of luggage we’ve tested, at a great price.

It’s lightweight. We have a hard time imagining how anyone could make a suitcase much lighter than this without breaking certain laws of physics. A few years ago, I took apart a Maxlite suitcase to see how the internal frame was built. What I found beneath the fabric was a clever lattice of plastic supporting the frame, which offered the best balance between weight-saving and structure.

For some people, especially those with limited upper-body strength, a lighter bag—even by just a few pounds—may be easier to lift or manage. That said, most people don’t need extremely light luggage, but just to pack less. For all the innovative design, the Maxlite 5 shaves only 2.4 pounds off the weight of our top pick. That’s the equivalent of a couple of pairs of jeans.

It’s inexpensive. My general advice to friends is to spend more than $200 but less than $500 to get good, if not great, luggage. The Maxlite 5 is the one piece of luggage I’ve found that breaks that rule. You can usually find it for about $150 or less, which is a remarkable price considering the bag’s quality.

Simple is good. This model doesn’t have any real bells or whistles—no battery pass-throughs or magnetically tracked wheels, as with our other Travelpro picks. Instead you’ll find two simple front pockets, a few well-placed handles, and a cavernous main compartment with a couple of pockets and two light straps to hold your stuff in place.

It comes from a trusted brand. We haven’t covered, examined, and interrogated a single luggage brand at Wirecutter for as long as we have Travelpro. For a decade, Travelpro has done a premier job of maintaining trust with its customers and with us—we’ve watched the company make small changes in design, catch flaws quickly, and address warranty concerns promptly. This is not something we say lightly: Travelpro is a name you can trust.

Dimensions: 23 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 5.4 pounds Volume: 46 liters

• The Maxlite 5’s warranty isn’t as robust as that of our top pick: Manufacturing defects in the wheels, zippers, and handles are covered for as long as you own the bag, but airline damage and shipping to a Travelpro repair center are covered only for the first year. (And you do need to register the bag.) Considering that this bag costs half the price of the Platinum Elite, this makes sense, but it’s something to be aware of.

If you’re a frequent flyer and willing to invest in higher-quality gear, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner (also available in a two-wheeled version with more capacity).

It’s the best of the best. Every detail of this top-rated bag, from the zippers to the wheels to the wrinkle-resistant suit compartment, is made to the highest standards, and we found that it had a higher proportion of usable space than any other spinner bag we tested. Briggs & Riley keeps its design consistent, adding, at most, small improvements such as this year’s upgraded lifting handle. Our 6-foot-6 paid tester pointed out that the Baseline Essential’s handle extended an inch and a half farther than that of the Travelpro Platinum Elite, which made it less likely to hit his heels as he pulled it.

Although the wheels don’t snap into alignment, they are exceptionally smooth-rolling and easy to maneuver. If you fly more than 25,000 miles per year, it’s worthwhile to invest in luggage that goes beyond merely being sturdy and actually improves your overall travel experience. That’s why we’ve been recommending it since we first covered this topic in 2014. The Baseline Essential is one of the best carry-on luggage options available today.

Its compression system is truly a marvel. The most ingenious part of the Baseline Essential bag is its CX expansion and compression system. Pull upward on two plastic handles inside the bag, and you can extend its depth a full 2.5 inches. Load the bag as full as you need to, and zip it closed. Then you push down on the bag, which compresses it as a clip mechanism secures it in place. Unlike other expansion systems, which are either open or closed, this one locks into incremental positions. It’s a unique design and very satisfying to use.

It’s the easiest to pack. Briggs & Riley placed the tracks for the Baseline Essential handles on the outside of the bag, which allows for a flat surface in the interior of the bag, with no small crevices to work around for simple packing. And in our tests, after packing 10 bags and trying to figure out strategies for each nook and cranny, packing on a broad flat surface felt like a luxury. According to our measurements, the bag, unexpanded, offers 1,905 cubic inches of storage room (and that accounts for the space occupied by the wheel wells and such). Expanded, it can stow 2,110 cubic inches. That’s remarkably efficient for a bag that does so much. All of these features add up to a carry-on that is easier to pack than any other bag we tested.

The Baseline Essential spinner is also the only spinner luggage model we tested with a built-in garment folder. It’s similar to the folder in Travelpro’s two-wheeled Platinum Elite bag, and that’s a good thing. It’s easy to pack and has an anchor point for hangers. Each of the three folds has a bit of padding that helps to keep a suit from pinching onto itself and creasing, though much of that depends on how well you pack. You can fit a week’s worth of clothes in the Baseline Essential, including some puffy gear for colder weather. A wide, wrinkle-free tie-down system completes the package.

It’s understated. On the outside, the Baseline Essential is pretty unremarkable. There’s nothing eye-grabbing about the bag, which is good if you’re trying to avoid being gate-checked (or having it stolen). Its outer, nylon fabric seems to be of a tighter weave than that used on the other bags we’ve tested. We also noticed a robust feel to the zippers, which are a self-repairing type made by YKK.

Similar to our top pick, the Baseline Essential includes a charging pocket. However, Briggs & Riley skipped the internal USB wiring, instead opting for a simple pocket arrangement (video) on the back of the bag for discreetly storing a charge pack and your phone. It’s an elegant solution.

It comes with an excellent warranty. All Briggs & Riley bags come with a lifetime warranty that covers any damage to the “functional aspects” of the bag, even if caused by an airline (like Travelpro, Briggs & Riley does not cover cosmetic wear or cleaning). Although Briggs & Riley handles warranty-covered repairs at no extra cost, you do have to pay to ship the bag to the company to carry out any repairs; it will ship your bag back to you for free. Or you can drop off the bag at one of the many repair centers . Briggs & Riley emphasizes that returning your bag to you in its original condition, even after repairs, is not always possible. The bags are easy to service and repair, so you can also order the parts you need and replace them yourself at home.

We’ve put in the miles, and the Baseline Essential is in a separate league. Over a five-year period before the pandemic, Wirecutter founder Brian Lam carried a two-wheeled Baseline Essential carry-on while traveling 150,000 miles and farther. After considering all the bags in our test and logging an additional 40,000 miles with a similarly priced bag by Tumi, he was convinced that this model is the best for anyone who’s always on the move. “I love this bag. It carries so much,” Brian said. “Sometimes I check it. Sometimes I carry it. It always fits.”

Dimensions: 22 by 14 by 9 (expands to 11.5) inches (HWD) Weight: 10 pounds Volume: 37 liters (expands to 48 liters)

• Despite the plastic shielding, the exposed rails on the exterior could use more protection. While dragging the bag up stairs (which we don’t advise doing), we felt more scraping than we’d like.
• At first glance, the handle feels too loose for a roughly $700 bag. We spoke to Briggs & Riley representatives, and they explained that this is a deliberate choice: The looser tolerances allow for the handle to retract by itself when you click its button, without your having to force it down. In practice, this is very helpful for scaling stairs and could save you some hassle in tight quarters, such as in the aisle of an airplane.
• At 10 pounds, the Baseline Essential is the heaviest bag we recommend. In this price range, weight often equals durability, which equals quality. But if you’re uncomfortable with a heavier bag, this isn’t the best pick for you.

Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On is an impressive polycarbonate case that improves in areas where most other companies tend to cut corners.

It’s robust and durable. It improves the usual hard-case design primarily by replacing the zipper with an aluminum frame sealed with two metal latches incorporating TSA locks. This trim makes the case feel far more robust, which is a very satisfying feeling when you’re wheeling luggage around an airport.

Clasping shut an aluminum frame with a metal lock is pleasing—it feels like closing a safe and locking it tight. The polycarbonate shell has an equally rigid feeling but exhibits plenty of flexibility under strain. Although it’s difficult to compare polycarbonates between brands, higher-end polycarbonate feels dense to the touch even as the material flexes; in this piece of luggage, Carl Friedrik offers impressive quality.

Additionally, the Carl Friedrik Carry-On has YKK zippers internally and Hinomoto spinner wheels from Japan—both considered the top of their class.

It’s thoughtfully styled. The soft leather accents and bolted frame all have a certain maturity that’s often lacking in other, competing cases. This look carries to the inside of the luggage as well. A simple gray polyester lining accompanies two sets of compression straps and a removable compression pad, which has a zippered pocket.

It has an excellent warranty. As you might expect for the price, Carl Friedrik backs up its luggage with a lifetime warranty that protects against airline damage (assuming the airline hasn’t responded to your request for compensation within 14 days).

Dimensions: 21.6 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 8.6 pounds Volume: 40 liters

• This is a brand-new pick—so far we haven’t found any flaws, but we’re keeping an eye on the latches. Luggage latches are small, complicated mechanical devices that have a myriad of ways to fail.
• The handle feels just a touch loose, which, as with our upgrade pick from Briggs & Riley , can be a benefit. It can also sometimes be a hazard. Again, we’ll continue testing it.

Hybrid designs like the Yeti Crossroads 22″/35L Wheeled Luggage aren’t for everyone, but if you like the flexibility of a soft-sided luggage with the hard-hitting ruggedness of a polycarbonate back and two large fixed wheels, then this bag is just right.

It’s made from tough materials and easy-to-repair parts. Yeti has a reputation for using tough, sometimes cutting-edge, materials in all its gear. The Crossroads is no exception. The 700-denier nylon is one of the better nylons we’ve tested—tightly woven and exceptionally durable. (Denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric.)

The Crossroads comes in only a two-wheeled design, which is usually able to withstand more damage than a four-wheeled design. The wheels are also easier to service on the road and often replaceable. 5

It’s well organized. It includes a front panel organizer, similar to that of modern laptop backpacks, with two slots for your laptop and tablet plus a mesh pocket for spare gear. Fully packed, it still has room for a few magazines as well, if you like. Internally, the soft top has a zippered main compartment with a decent amount of packing space, as well as two mesh organizing pockets.

It’s a pleasure to pack. As the Crossroads is built around a molded polycarbonate base, the entire suitcase becomes, in essence, a large tray to pack and then zip shut. It’s a very satisfying design—easier to manage than many of the clamshell designs that are currently popular. Yeti’s packing cubes are designed to fit snugly in the Crossroads’s main compartment, and the bag does come with one small cube. But if you choose these, you’re spending a premium for additional packing cubes when almost any packing cube will work.

Dimensions: 22 by 14 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 8 pounds Volume: 40 liters

• We’d love to see a better warranty. Three years is very limited when compared with other luggage brands selling similarly priced suitcases—especially for a bag that claims to be as tough as the brand’s reputation.
• Occasionally, Yeti’s tough-gear reputation veers almost into absurdity, as with the inclusion here of self-sealing zippers on a bag that isn’t actually waterproof—merely weather resistant. They’re top-of-the-line zippers. But self-sealing zippers can be hard to operate and require regular lubrication, which most people aren’t used to providing.
• The front-facing laptop organizer is woefully unshielded. If you’re traveling with a laptop, place it deep within the bag if you want it properly protected.
• The bag feels heavy—by our measurements, it weighs about a half pound more than Yeti’s 7.5-pound estimation. It’s not the heaviest of our picks, but something about the weight distribution and shape of the bag makes it feel heavier when you’re swinging it around.

If you need a hard-sided budget bag: Look at the Gregory Quadro Hardcase 22″ , an unexpectedly high-quality suitcase from an outdoor-gear company. Gregory offers a lifetime warranty with service and repair. Although the warranty doesn’t explicitly mention airline damage, Gregory’s good reputation speaks for itself in this matter. However, the Quadro Hardcase is a pound heavier (at 6.5 pounds) and about $60 more than our budget pick.

If the Away Carry-On is sold out: Consider the Monos Carry-On Plus . Picking between these two models came down to splitting some very fine hairs. Both use YKK zippers. Both have lifetime warranties. The handles and interiors are almost identical. Monos even hides the stitching that attaches the zipper to the polycarbonate frame, which is a nice aesthetic touch. The difference came down to the Away Carry-On’s wheels, which spun just that much more freely in our testing, and the underside handle, which made it easier to pull out of overhead bins. And we’ve tested the Away Carry-On for longer. However, if it’s unavailable, the Monos model is a good, nearly identical substitute.

If you want a bag made of recycled materials: We suggest the Paravel Aviator Carry-On . Paravel is attempting to design luggage with recycled materials and some environmentally minded transparency to the company’s production methods. However, you pay a premium for the effort. Quality-wise, the bag is similar to our other hard-sided picks, for about a hundred more dollars. And much of the Paravel branding is built on carbon offsets, which we are deeply skeptical of (though we wish they worked).

If you’re an infrequent adventurer: Try the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller , which could almost be an also-great pick under our hybrid pick . It’s cheaper, has a better warranty (but no explicit coverage for airline damage), and is made from recycled materials. However, the overall build quality is wanting. For example, the polycarbonate shell doesn’t fully cover the tubes for the extendable handle as it does with our hybrid pick. It seems an oversight for bags that are built to knock around.

If the best possible suit-packing experience is all you want, and money is no object: The Vocier C38 Carry-On Luggage is worth a look, despite a few flaws and an $800 price tag. The C38 takes a unique, fold-free approach to packing clothes. Rather than folding garments in on themselves to fit in the bag, it bends the suit around the outside of the luggage frame in a U shape. This packing method creates no creases and therefore no wrinkles. The case is protected by a limited lifetime warranty that doesn’t cover airline damage.

We hope to take a look at the European brand Floyd , which is currently popular on Instagram. At first glance, it’s another piece of luggage looking to appeal to a younger mass audience. But the easy-to-replace polyurethane wheels and bearings—similar to skateboard wheels—do have “user-serviceable parts inside” curb appeal.

We’re currently testing Level8’s Voyageur series of luggage, which features an extra-wide handle. It’s a design trend we’re starting to track with a few lesser-known brands (and, incidentally, a Louis Vuitton case costing several thousand dollars). A wide handle should do two things: It should free up a little more space inside the luggage, and it should improve handling.

Lastly, we’re considering expanding our coverage to include equipment cases like those made by Pelican . Though their appropriate use is very specific, when you need to travel with high-end gear or fragile valuables, Pelican cases more or less set the standard.

Soft-sided carry-on luggage

Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Roller Bag : We’re generally fans of Cotopaxi’s Allpa line, but this two-wheeled bag falls short. Specifically, the bottom of the bag is split by the zipper, which gives the bag an unstable feeling when it’s standing upright.

Eagle Creek Tarmac XE 4-Wheel 22″ Carry On Luggage : If this bag were about $150 cheaper, it would be a good price for the quality. We like the recycled materials, but the bag lacks framing.

Solo Re:Treat Carry-On Spinner : I appreciate any bag made entirely out of recycled materials, but this model (from a brand owned by the same company that manages Briggs & Riley) felt awfully flimsy. Even with its five-year warranty, I just don’t trust that this bag can go the distance.

Thule Subterra : The clamshell design—similar to the ones you find on hard-sided bags—makes this bag difficult to close if you’re trying to fill it to its full capacity. It just isn’t as easy to use as our soft-sided picks.

Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller : The balance on this bag was decent, and it stood up well unloaded or loaded. Its wheels had a cheap ball-bearing rhythmic chatter, though, and the abundance of zippers and internal compartments made it tedious to pack.

Tumi Aerotour International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On : At about half the price, this would be a great bag. But paying nearly $700 for a five-year warranty and a bag that doesn’t do nearly as much as a Briggs & Riley suitcase seems a bit silly.

Hard-sided carry-on luggage

Amazon Basics 24-Inch Hardside Spinner : This bag is a surprisingly good carry-on for about $90. However, its ABS plastic shell is not as tough as a polycarbonate shell. It’s worth investing more in your luggage—the bag you choose will last longer and work better.

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On : The Arlo Skye carry-on is a decent piece of luggage, but it’s hard to square the bag with its cost: $200 more than our pick from Away .

Away The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition : 10 pounds! At this weight, you’ve lost a quarter of your allowable luggage weight to the suitcase alone, unpacked. And it’s nearly as expensive as our upgrade pick, with a much less satisfying compression system.

Briggs & Riley Torq and Sympatico : Though these collections seek to solve a different problem, neither is as impressive as the Baseline series.

Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Luggage : We preferred sturdier polycarbonate shells over Calpak’s blended ABS polycarbonate shell. Also, the bag’s handling felt jittery against normal airport floor surfaces.

Delsey Rempart Expandable Spinner Carry-On : At just around $200, the Rempart is a decent budget option. However, the external styling (like layers of pressed sheet pans) is an odd choice. It has some practicality, but only if you’re stacking identical Delsey cases one on top of another, which might happen, I suppose, at some point … maybe.

July Carry On : In the lineup between July, Monos, and Away, July falls just short. We appreciate the lifetime warranty, YKK zippers, and flexible but dense-feeling polycarbonate. But the overall design doesn’t do much to improve on the category (as the Monos bag subtly does).

Level8 Road Runner Pro Carry-On 20″ : This is potentially a decent budget pick at just around $200. But the one-year warranty and the somewhat fiddly TSA lock and front latching panel give us pause.

Lojel Cubo Medium : Although we liked the uncommon top-loading design, the internal organization of the lid made packing this carry-on difficult. We also weren’t impressed by the zippered expansion system, which made the suitcase feel bulkier than our picks.

Lojel Voja Medium : An odd suitcase, this would be a great children’s suitcase or a budget pick—especially if it were under $200. But its current price is steep for a polypropylene blend with a couple of latches.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Chris Ryan.

Airline policies vary, but a general rule is that the bag must be under 45 linear inches—the total sum of the bag’s length, width, and depth. Here’s the current sizing breakdown among the major US airlines:

• Alaska Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• Allegiant Air: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• American Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches (the dimensions of soft-sided garment bags are allowed to add up to 51 inches)
• Delta Air Lines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• Frontier Airlines: 24 by 16 by 10 inches (and less than 35 pounds)
• Hawaiian Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• JetBlue Airways: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• Southwest Airlines: 24 by 16 by 10 inches
• Spirit Airlines: 22 by 18 by 10 inches
• Sun Country Airlines: 24 by 16 by 11 inches
• United Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches

We double-checked the measurable packable space of our top picks against the manufacturers’ listed volumes by filling each piece of luggage with hundreds of Ping-Pong balls: 144 Ping-Pong balls weigh exactly 0.5 pound, and each Ping-Pong ball represents approximately 2 cubic inches (PDF) . After weighing each piece of luggage three times to establish an average empty weight, we filled the bags as full as we could with Ping-Pong balls and measured the change in weight. For every half-pound increase in weight we estimated 288 cubic inches of packable space.

His five-day travel kit included the following:

• 1 two-piece linen suit on a hanger
• 1 dress shirt on a hanger
• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 pair of khakis
• 5 medium-weight to lightweight shirts
• 1 heavy sweater
• 2 flannel shirts
• 5 pairs of boxer briefs
• 5 pairs of sport socks

Her five-day travel kit included the following:

• 1 dress on a hanger
• 1 blazer on a hanger
• 1 blouse on a hanger
• 1 pair of heels
• 2 pairs of jeans
• 1 pair of light sneakers
• 5 pairs of underwear and 3 bras
• 1 pair of yoga pants
• 1 flannel shirt
• 1 hair dryer
• 1 curling iron
• 1 jewelry/makeup kit
• 3 pairs of sport socks
• 4 lightweight shirts

You use a garment folder by laying a suit or dress across the panels, folding them into themselves, and zipping up the inner compartment. A folder should be wide enough that a suit isn’t cramped, and it should include hanger straps (which should fit around everything, even larger plastic hangers) to keep things from shifting around too much. Some folding boards have 0.75-inch-diameter foam rolls in them to help prevent creases along the packed clothes’ fold lines. When you aren’t traveling with fancy clothes, you can take the whole apparatus apart and use it as luggage dividers in the main bag itself, or leave it at home, converting the suit/dress compartment into an extra packing cube.

Yeti doesn’t seem to have an easy way to order replaceable wheels. But the 3.5-by-1-inch wheels are fairly common, and we’re looking at the best possible alternatives.

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.

Further reading

Wirecutter’s 100 Most Popular Picks in September 2022

by Wirecutter Staff

These 100 useful things were the most-purchased Wirecutter picks in September 2022.

The Best Luggage Tags

by Geoffrey Morrison

We chose five luggage tags that will help you identify your belongings in a sea of similar suitcases.

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

by Kit Dillon

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is our backpack pick for most travelers. We also have picks for other travelers, including those who want to carry a bit more.

We’ve Loved Luggage From Travelpro’s Platinum Elite Line for Nearly a Decade. Here’s Why.

Travelpro Platinum Elite is our most loyal travel companion.

The Best Luggage Brands to Buy in 2024

These are the top-tested suitcases for all of your travel needs.

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.

Our top picks

Best Overall Luggage

Best Value Luggage

American tourister.

Best Carry-On Luggage

Best Luggage for International Travel

Briggs & riley.

Best Under-$100 Luggage

Amazon basics.

Best Luggage for Frequent Flyers

Best Viral Luggage

Best Luggage for Flight Crews

Best Printed Luggage

Best Fashion Luggage

Each piece of luggage is evaluated by experts in the Lab as well as consumer testers on the go. In the Lab, we look at factors like durability, ease of use and more. We also pack each suitcase with a standard load to see how much it can hold and how easy the compartments are to access. Consumer testers come into the Lab to use the luggage in an obstacle course, where they weigh in on handle comfort, wheel performance, maneuverability and more. Finally, we send luggage out with travelers into the real world for firsthand feedback.

You can learn more about how we test luggage and what to consider as you shop — including how to decide between hardside and softside luggage — but first, here's everything you need to know about our top-tested luggage brands.

Samsonite earns our top spot for the best luggage brand because it has a wide assortment for every preference — from business travelers to vacationers — and has continuously proven to be high quality as we've tested it over the years.

In particular, it stands out for its durability and ease-of-use features: There's been no struggling to open and close the cases, and packing them has been a breeze , thanks to the functional compartments that maximize space. It's certainly not inexpensive, but as direct-to-consumer luggage brand prices have skyrocketed, Samsonite's have remained fairly consistent.

Both hardside and softside styles from the brand have excelled in our tests. We've also been impressed by each of the sizes, including carry-ons, checked bags and underseat luggage. Some of our favorite models include the Freeform hardside (pictured here), the Solyte DLX softside and the Stryde Glyder , which is a checked case that's wide instead of tall so it's less likely to tip over.

A consumer tester rolling the Samsonite Freeform carry-on through an obstacle course at the Good Housekeeping Institute.

If you're on a budget or you don’t use luggage regularly — i.e., it doesn’t need to be the most durable and you don’t need all the bells and whistles — American Tourister offers competitive pricing and an excellent variety to choose from . There are a lot of options if you prefer bright colors and fun prints, plus there are cases for the entire family, including a Disney collection . Between the designs and versatile offerings, the models are fun, functional and especially ideal for vacationers.

Just note that while luxury hardside cases are usually made of polycarbonate, American Tourister typically uses ABS plastic, which is more affordable but more prone to scratches. Still, it gets high ratings from online reviewers who note that the bags are surprisingly spacious. Another perk: The brand offers luggage sets for an even better value, especially if you need to purchase multiple pieces. Pictured here is the Pop Max Softside set , which at $150 for a set of three, is less than other single cases.

Away is one of the most popular luggage brands on the market, and our testing shows it actually lives up to its hype. Though the brand has a wide range of offerings, we especially love the hardside carry-on.

It's made of 100% polycarbonate that proved to be durable and lightweight in our evaluations — even lighter than some fabric bags we’ve tested. It was also surprisingly spacious and held a full packing load in our review. The company offers a 100-day return policy on unused items; it also offers a lifetime limited warranty on its suitcases that covers any "functional damage."

Besides the main Carry-On model , it comes in variations like a Bigger Carry-On (which the brand says can hold 20% more) and a Carry-On Flex (which has an expandable zipper). We also love the brand's Everywhere Bag , which is a stylish and surprisingly spacious weekender.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: We Tested Away's Trendy Carry-On to See If It's Worth The Price

An inside view of Away's The Carry On.

Briggs & Riley

Briggs & Riley bags are pricey — a carry-on can cost over $600 — but they come with a lifetime guarantee that will cover all repairs if the luggage ever gets broken or damaged. They also come with innovative features, such as the brand's signature compression packing system. Bags that have this feature expand to let you pack and then compress down after they're filled. In fact, one of our testers said she packed a week's worth of summer clothes for two people into a compact carry-on, and it easily fit into an airline's overhead bin.

The suitcases also use top-notch construction and timeless designs in a range of styles, including hardside, softside, carry-ons and checked bags. The Baseline Global Carry-On Spinner (pictured here in the 21-inch version) has been a selected as GH Family Travel Award winner for the past two years after travel testers gave it perfect scores across the board. Its nylon fabric also aced our Lab's abrasion tests.

The interior compartment of Briggs & Riley's Baseline Carry-On, including its easy-to-use expansion button.

It’s hard to find good luggage for under $100, but Amazon’s luggage does not disappoint. There are softside and hardside styles to choose from, plus garment bags , duffels and more. Amazon also boasts extensive testing to make sure their products will hold up, and though the luggage might not the absolute best quality out there, the price can’t be beat.

We were impressed with its hardside 20-inch spinner carry-on (pictured here) when we tested it on our Lab. Our analysts found it to be exceptionally easy to pack, though the ABS material wasn't as scratch-resistant as other models in our tests. Still, consumer testers liked the maneuverability and wheel performance. This style also comes in two other sizes (24 and 28 inches) and can be purchased as a two- or three-piece set.

This luxury brand is on the pricey side but has timeless designs — from hardside to tweed fabric — that never go out of style. In fact, the brand’s marketing and aesthetics are focused heavily on its heritage. It has been a top performer in our tests, thanks to its spacious interior that's easy to pack and its wheels and handles that make it smooth and comfortable to maneuver.

The hardside cases have earned high scores in our tests — especially standing out for being scratch-resistant, lightweight and spacious — but we also love the softside Legend collection (pictured here), which is made of durable tweed fabric and leather trim.

This fashionable yet functional travel brand was founded by actress Shay Mitchell and incorporates smart features designed to make traveling easier. It also has a stunning aesthetic, including monochromatic color schemes in which the handles and hardware match the case.

Pictured here is the Carry-On Roller, its best-selling case that comes in a range of neutral and fun hues. It was spacious for packing and easy to maneuver in our tests, and though it did scuff during use, it resisted dents well during our Lab's drop tests. Another popular style is its Mini Weekender , which can be used as a personal item that fits underneath the airplane seat in front of you.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Experts Weigh In on Buzzy Travel Brand Béis

The Béis carry-on and compact weekender bag being used as a travel set.

This company was founded by a pilot, and it makes luggage specifically for airline personnel who travel for a living. Still, it's just as functional for business and leisure travelers.

The brand primarily sells softside luggage, though it does have some hardside options available. There’s excellent attention to detail that makes frequent flying easier, like cushioning around the handles for comfort, self-aligning wheels that let you roll the luggage in any direction and abrasion-resistant nylon fabric.

The Platinum Elite softside luggage (pictured here) stood out in our Lab tests. Not only was it durable, but it was also spacious enough to hold our entire load with room to spare. The downside was that it was heavier than others, but it's a fair tradeoff for the top-of-the-line features.

This brand increases the fun factor and makes it easier to spot your luggage in a sea of solid colors. There are adorable animal sets for kids' luggage , animal prints for adults and more. There are also options for licensed teams and art (like Britto, shown here), making your suitcase a playful yet functional accessory.

When it comes to materials, most Heys suitcases are hardside and made of polycarbonate and ABS composite. This means it's mostly ABS plastic but has a polycarbonate coating on the outside for added protection. The brand wasn't the most durable in our tests, it but earned high ease-of-use scores.

Style is certainly important when it comes to luggage — it's an accessory, after all — but you don't want to sacrifice quality and functionality. Calpak's cases are both well-made and have unique designs. Though its assortment is tailored with fewer models than some of the big brands, Calpak still has a wide range of materials to choose from, including sleek hardside polycarbonate, printed ABS/polycarbonate blends and ripstop polyester.

Calpak's Ambeur carry-on (pictured here) was one of our testers' favorites; they especially loved the easy-to-use telescopic handle and metallic color. We also found it to be easy to pack and though it wasn't as scratch-resistant as some others we tested (which is expected for ABS composites), it still withstood dents and damage from our durability drop test.

Rolling TUMI luggage through the airport is like a status symbol; the brand is highly recognized for its upscale products for both business and leisure travelers.

In addition to its suitcases , it makes accessories like briefcases and backpacks and has components that make traveling easier, like an anti-slip strap on carrying bags and an extra hook on rolling bags so you can wheel multiple items at once. On top of that, the brand stands out for its unique service offerings, like repairs and luggage registration to help you find lost bags.

We especially love Tumi's Alpha collection (pictured here is the Alpha carry-on ) with its durable materials and removable garment sleeve. One GH analyst who has been using a backpack in this collection appreciates that it fits more than you'd expect and has a versatile design for travel, work and beyond.

If you’re going away for weeks or just have lots to pack, L.L.Bean’s duffels are roomy enough to stuff in everything you need. There are options with or without wheels and lots of sizes to choose from (the Adventure Rolling Duffel , shown here, is incredibly durable and one of our go-to picks for vacations with kids).

The flexible shape of the duffel also allows it to store easily under your bed, so it’s perfect for college students or anyone tight on storage space. It’s also made of sturdy, water-resistant nylon fabric that's made to last no matter where your travels take you — in fact, one of our experts says it's lasted for years without signs of wear. She does note that it's a little more cumbersome to pull than four-wheel spinner luggage and it's spaciousness makes it easy to go over the 50-pound weight limit for airlines, but says it's perfect for packing for two kids.

Monos says its design philosophy is "less is more," — meaning the bags are made to be simple and timeless to avoid passing trends and high quality so they can stand the test of time. Most of its hardside bags are entirely polycarbonate, though some combine polycarbonate and aluminum for increased durability. They also have useful packing features like wide compression straps to help you fit more in the case.

The Check-In Large was a winner of last year's GH Family Travel Awards because of its spacious interior and maneuverability. Testers said it was easy to roll and they loved the sleek appearance. It's also worth noting that the brand has a 100-day return period so you can get a refund if it's not a good fit.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Here's Why Travelers Love the Monos Luggage Collection

Monos luggage shown in three sizes: Check-in Large, Check-in Medium and Carry-on

Eagle Creek

Whether you’re backpacking internationally or exploring a national park, Eagle Creek gives you both the convenience and durability you need in a bag. Some have various compartments so you can stay organized (or store shoes and dirty laundry separately), and some bags have backpack straps if you need to be hands-free.

We especially love the Cargo Hauler Duffel for shorter trips: It’s affordable, spacious, lightweight and folds up into a small pouch for easy storage. For longer getaways, the Migrate Wheeled Duffel (pictured here) is larger and has two wheels with a telescopic handle. It also opens wide so you can easily access the contents.

Eagle Creek's Migrate Wheeled Duffel, left, being checked in at an airport terminal.

Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.

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What’s the Best Personal Item Bag for Flying?

Between finding a carry-on that will fit in most overhead compartments, a toiletry bag or Dopp kit for your tiny bottles of shampoo, and an under-the-seat personal item to hold everything you’ll need for in-flight comfort and entertainment, solving the packing equation isn’t easy. To make things even more complicated, there aren’t even standard regulations for what counts as a “personal item” — as my fellow writer Rachael Griffiths explains here , each airline has its own particular requirements. If you’ve purchased a basic fare on a no-frills carrier like Frontier or Spirit, you’ll generally want to stick with a bag measuring 8 x 18 x 14 inches or smaller (and if you’re not sure how to fit everything into that, I’ve written a minimalist packing guide to help). On most other airlines, there’s a lot more you can get away with. Below, find advice from stylish frequent fliers (and Strategist staffers) about the totes, duffels, and backpacks they slip over the handles of their suitcases.

The best personal-item tote bags

Yolo Journal ’s Yolanda Edwards likes travel bags that don’t look like travel bags and can therefore be used for everyday sightseeing and shopping upon reaching your destination. Parker Thatch’s roomy totes fit the bill, and while they don’t have a luggage sleeve, Edwards has no problem slipping the handles of this one over her Rimowa suitcase. “And it’s great for going to the farmers’ market once I arrive where I’m going,” she adds.

“I look for a bag that can sit on top of my carry-on, fit a lot of items, and be easily stored when not in use,” says Daniela Velasco, the creative director of Drift magazine. That bag, for her, is Longchamp’s forever classic Le Pliage tote, which flattens and folds up for storage. Strategist senior editor Hilary Reid owns one in orange and is also “always surprised by how much fits inside.”

Is there a more quintessential carry-all than the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote? Writer and influencer Harry Hill doesn’t think so. “As someone who is usually drawn to more uppity travel bags, this trusty tote is a delight because of how unfussy it is,” Hill tells us. “It fits a ton, it’s super-lightweight, and I don’t have to worry about spilling coffee on the vachetta or putting it on the ground.” Hill suggests monogramming your name — or a crude joke, depending on personal preference. For additional customization, “the colorways are constantly changing, so keep an eye out if you have a specific vision for your tote.” While Hill adds that it’s impossible to go wrong, because any L.L.Bean “will make you look like a Kennedy skipping town,” the zip-up version of the bag will give more peace of mind at the airport.

Sewn in California from leftover sailing canvas, Pacific Tote Company’s bags are similar to L.L. Bean boat totes, except more brightly colored. The company is co-owned by director Roman Coppola (brother to Sofia, who carries Pacific Tote bags on set ) and beloved by bi-coastal film industry insiders. If you work in film and fly between L.A. and New York every other week, you carry your laptop in this pleasingly sturdy bag . Strategist columnist Chris Black is also a fan .

When she’s not traveling with her Parker Thatch bag, Edwards also likes to use Kule’s roomy totes as personal items. Saturday Night Live ’s Chloe Fineman travels with one of these too, and says it fits both a laptop and extra outfit inside. She adds that the “Oy Vey” design is “a little cheeky and a little funny,” as well as a nice reminder of home when she’s on the road.

Here’s another professional-looking, multi-purpose travel tote, as recommended by Strategist writer Lauren Ro. She says it makes a great carry-on personal item because it’s lightweight and custom-designed for air travel, with a luggage sleeve and exterior pockets for stashing chargers and tidbits, as well as a removable crossbody strap.

At least two friends that I know of ended up immediately purchasing a Baggu Cloud Carry-on after I flaunted mine at a destination wedding this past May. Made from weightless but durable nylon, the airplane-friendly version of the brand’s original Cloud Bag can hold a lot of stuff, and the bright colorways stand out in a sea of boring navy duffels at the airport. Puffy shoulder straps make standing in line at security a bit more tolerable, and generous external pockets are handy for stashing a book or water bottle. This bag’s dimensions are actually rather large (14 × 20 × 8 inches) for a personal item, but its bulkiness really depends on how much stuff you pack inside. I’ve taken mine on a personal-item-only Spirit flight with no issues at all, and on longer trips I have also slipped it over the handle of a Samsonite carry-on suitcase using the attached luggage sleeve.

The best personal-item duffel bags

Former Strategist associate editor Louis Cheslaw calls this Patagonia duffel his “ secret second suitcase ,” because its unassuming-yet-roomy interior lets him pack heavy without checking a bag. The Black Hole’s 30-liter capacity is about as large as a bag can be while still qualifying as the “personal item” you can bring onboard with your main carry-on suitcase and slide under the seat in front of you, Cheslaw notes. “Within that capacity, I can easily fit two pairs of shoes as well as a week’s worth of underwear, socks, and thin shirts, relieving a ton of pressure on my suitcase.”

This new-school garment bag, which made our Travel 100 list of the best products to take on the road, can keep a suit or gown unwrinkled while also cleverly storing several other outfits. It’s ideal for destination weddings, and Moonflower wine bar co-owner Rebecca Johnson even took hers all the way to Tasmania for a romantic antipodean getaway with her husband. Going ’s travel spokesperson, Katy Nastro, told me that it’s very popular among her exceedingly well-traveled colleagues.

For both carry-on backpacks and duffels, former Paper fashion editor Mario Abad turns to Dagne Dover’s neoprene travel bags. “They’re the best,” he says. “They’re really lightweight, and they’re made of this scuba material that looks sleek and modern and is nice to the touch.” The bags aren’t just aesthetically pleasing, though. “You can fit a lot of stuff inside — it’s a minimal aesthetic, no busy details or anything, just all the compartments you need.” Jessica Morrobel of  Traveling With Jessica agrees that the Landon is an “absolute lifesaver,” and  Going ’s travel spokesperson, Katy Nastro, is also a fan, especially for quick overnights. The duffel comes in five sizes, but medium is the best option if you know you’ll be flying on budget carriers with strict rules.

The best personal-item backpacks

This is my current personal item backpack of choice. It is designed to slip over the handles of a carry-on suitcase, but over Christmas I took it as my only luggage on a weeklong train trip across Turkey and Georgia and it fit everything I needed, including an extra pair of shoes. The neutral design is as appropriate for day hiking and office commuting as it is flying. But the capacity is the biggest drawcard. Creator Jessica Wright of Bon Traveler is a longtime user and says she is “shocked” by how much it can hold. Great for packers who like to compartmentalize, the interior is separated into various sleeves and sections for a laptop, clothing, and tech items. But you can also remove these compartments and just use it as a black hole bag if needed.

My fellow Strategist travel writer Rachael Griffiths prefers this sleek Timbuk2 backpack with even more sleeves and compartments for organizing items on the move. It, too, can store “a week away’s worth of clothes and a fat beach read if you’re strategic,” she says. Which is ideal if you’re traveling personal-item-only.

The “clown car of personal items” is what writer and film wrangler Maggie Slepian calls this top-loading backpack from hiker-beloved brand Gregory. When she used it as her only luggage item for a four-day trip to the East Coast last fall, it fit a laptop, notebook, sandals, running shoes, rain jacket, jumpsuit, two pairs of leggings, two pairs of shorts, several shirts, toiletries, socks, undergarments, five pairs of headphones (over-ear, noise-canceling earbuds, white-noise only, corded for the plane, and AirPods for Zoom calls), and snacks. Her water bottle was stashed in the stretchy side pocket.

Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack is “a really good bag,” as Strategist contributing writer Molly Dektar observes . Popular among globe-trotting art world types, it can be carried as either a tote or a backpack, depending on the situation, and it folds into its own internal pocket, for easy storage. It is practical without sacrificing style: “Though it is crafted of black ripstop, it does not scream, ‘I hike!’ and though it has a large number of pockets and adjustable straps, it does not scream, ‘I code!’”

Strategist senior editor Simone Kitchens is a fan of Patagonia’s Black Hole bags too — but she uses this more traditional-looking one. “ There are one zillion separate little pockets and perfectly sized compartments for things like chargers and night guards and passports and AirPods,” she explains, “as well as slim sleeves for a laptop and magazines.” The bag opens at the top, which means things won’t come tumbling out when you need to grab something. And while there’s a high level of organization happening on the inside, the bag has a smooth exterior: “ I quite like that the outside doesn’t look all that tricked out. ”

Despite fears of looking like a Scandinavian school child or 2012-era hipster, Strategist writer Dominique Pariso is loyal to her Kanken — and she’s not alone among our staff . “This backpack is so light, so compact, and so durable it really is ideal for stuffing under tiny airplane seats,” she explains. “Plus, you can fit way more stuff inside than seems humanly possible given its petite size.”

The best personal-item cross-bodies and fanny packs

Crescent-shaped bags have been everywhere over the past couple of years, but here’s one that’ll stand out from the crowd. Writer and artist Ludwig Hurtado says it’s big enough to fit your phone, headphones, passport, sunglasses, snacks, and even a book or two. And the cross-body strap makes it ideal for travel: “In theory, I love the look of a large tote bag, but when I’m running around the city or the airport, they tend to fall off my shoulder way too easily.” He took his to Paris Fashion Week as well as on a quick trip to Berlin, where it successfully helped him gain entry to Berghain.

On the more affordable side of things, Baggu’s take on the crescent trend is excellent for travel. I’ve had mine for a couple of years now and would be lost without it at the airport. It’s comfortable to wear, with a highly adjustable strap and two zippered internal pockets for securing your phone, passport, and wallet. The capacity is huge: I can fit a book and water bottle inside and still have room left over for other items. I’ve machine washed it several times with no issue. And while the bag looks smart, especially in the black colorway, it’s also low-key enough to avoid the attention of pickpockets. Hairstylist Teddi Cranford, who has visited Marrakech five times , says that it’s “essential for the souk,” because you can “just easily grab stuff out and zip it back up.”

Less sporty-looking than the ubiquitous Lululemon belt bag, and constructed from stretchy neoprene fabric that lets you stuff it full if you need to, our favorite fanny pack is perfect for the plane. As Strategist editor Maxine Builder explains, it’s made of “forgiving, easy-to-clean” neoprene, and “it expands a fair bit” so she can stuff more into it.

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12 Travel Garment Bags to Look Good Everywhere

Be wrinkle-free everywhere you go

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

But choosing the best travel garment bag for your needs can be a challenge. There are a lot of options on the market, so we asked an expert about how to find the right one. According to Tumi creative director Victor Sanz, “Your garment bag should be sturdy, functional, and sleek. If you’re frequently traveling by plane, a garment bag that folds to fit carry-on requirements is essential.” He adds, “You want to find the size that will fit all your clothes without having to overfold them and will allow you to reach your destination in style.”

Best Quilted Garment Bag

Mz wallace michael garment bag.

Best Luxury Garment Bag

Tumi alpha garment bag trifold carry-on.

Best Garment Duffel

Halfday the garment duffel.

Best Timeless Garment Bag

Longchamp boxford garment bag.

Best Packable Garment Bag

Calpak packable garment bag.

Best Affordable Garment Bag

Amazon basics premium garment bag.

Best Durable Garment Bag

Hartmann metropolitan two-garment sleeve.

Best Personalized Garment Bag

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

Best Expandable Garment Bag

Samsonite ascella 3.0 softside expandable luggage.

Best Water-Resistant Garment Bag

Stitch ultimate garment bag.

It’s also important to consider bonus features, like pockets and organizational compartments, and, as Sanz notes, “A crucial function is to ensure that you’re able to hang your garment bag when you arrive at your destination, so that you can prepare your outfits as easily as possible and to ensure that all your clothes are crisp.” Keeping all this in mind, we found the 12 best travel garment bags out there today. Once you start using one of these, you’re never going to go back.

MZ Wallace’s signature quilting isn’t limited to the brand’s totes, appearing here in garment bag form. The thin design is extremely lightweight, ideal for quick trips when you need to bring one to three outfits. There is even an exterior pocket for bonus storage.

Dimensions: 22" × 3" × 39"

Materials: Oxford, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I have been interested in a MZ Wallace garment bag for a while. It is perfect! Just right proportions and size. Thoughtful design and construction details.”

Tumi always delivers premium luggage that will last you over a decade, and this garment bag is no exception. Sanz says: “It’s foldable, with a sturdy handle for easy carrying, making it convenient and compact for every type of travel. I also love that it has several zipper pockets, so I can pack my toiletries and other travel essentials all in one bag. When I arrive at my destination, I hang it in the closet and I know that I will be ready to go.”

Dimensions: 15" x 22" x 6"

Materials: Ballistic nylon

What reviewers are saying: “This bag stores so much for a carry on. I was able to comfortably fit 2 suits and more for a destination wedding!”

This duffel has been receiving high praise ever since its release. A few of the reasons it’s so popular: The duffel is carry-on friendly, water-resistant, and has interior and exterior pockets. And those are only a few of its distinguishing features. Choose an original or compact size for the style that suits your needs.

Dimensions: 22" x 12" x 12"

Materials: Polyester

What reviewers are saying: “The Garment Duffel is a great purchase, especially for anyone in an industry that takes short frequent trips. I was actually able fit quite a bit more clothes than I had anticipated. Took the bag to work and my company bought 20 of them to give to customers. Great purchase.”

Longchamp’s iconic nylon and leather trim takes on a garment bag silhouette. The two-tone design exudes sophistication, with practical touches like a top carry handle, built-in hanger, and front zip pocket.

Dimensions: 23.25" x 41.25"

Materials: Nylon, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this as a gift for my boyfriend who travels a lot and needed a nice garment bag particularly for his suits. This bag is perfect! It fits his suit as well as a few extra shirts. The fabric is an amazing, durable quality, and the leather details make this product look incredible.”

This garment bag is actually designed to fit inside of your carry-on, rather than serving as a stand-alone piece. The water-resistant exterior protects against spills, and exterior zip pockets hold small accessories. It gets the job done, while taking up the least possible amount of space.

Dimensions: 40" x 19"

What reviewers are saying: “I use this bag when I need to workout at work. I go from a suit to athleticwear in minutes.”

Looking for an affordable option that is available ASAP? Amazon’s garment bag holds up to three suits or dresses and boasts multiple zipper compartments.

Dimensions: 40" x 4" x 20.5"

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this bag in 2019 and it has held up incredibly well since then, performs all functions advertised at a great price value. I have taken it on many flights, buses and train rides and have never had an issue with fitting it in the overhead bin on both longer-haul flights and short budget-airline carriers.”

Hartmann’s garment bag adds contemporary touches to an otherwise traditional design. The result? A chic, useful travel accessory that will stand the test of time. The padded shoulder strap and multiple interior pockets enhance the convenience of this style.

Materials: Nylon

What reviewers are saying: “Hartmann was an anniversary gift from my work place, and I am still proud to own it 35 years later.”

Mark & Graham Commuter 2-in-1 Garment Bag

Another convertible duffel, but this time with a personalized touch. That’s right—Mark & Graham lets you monogram your duffel. With a plethora of zippered and snap interior and exterior pockets, this bag gets creative with its storage solutions.

Dimensions: 22" x 10" x 10"

This spinner-style garment bag makes navigating a chaotic airport easy. The ergonomic design has expandable capabilities, as well as various compartments, a hanger bracket, and a pocket for liquids.

Dimensions: 20.5" x 24" x 9.5"

What reviewers are saying: “It’s easy to maneuver and overall great quality and very neat design (many compartments and zippered areas).”

For golfers and non-golfers alike, Stitch makes a duffel that is water- and stain-resistant, and includes a hanger hook, shoulder strap, elastic shoe pockets, and webbed handles. You can even get it customized with your initials.

Dimensions: 22.5" x 11.5" x 12"

What reviewers are saying: “Love it! Fits into the airplane overhead bin, no trouble bringing it along as a carry-on bag. Very sturdy, zippers are tough enough. Shoulder strap is removable. My suit arrived in top shape using this garment bag. Highly recommended.”

Ralph Lauren Leather-Trim Hybrid Garment Duffel

Ralph Lauren’s duffel design is the epitome of understated elegance. An accompanying shoulder strap makes it easy to carry around.

Dimensions: 15" x 21.5" x 9"

Materials: Polyester, leather

Gucci Savoy Garment Bag

Embrace the bold luxury aesthetic with a Gucci bag covered in the house’s monogram. Containing a big compartment with a hanger and two zip pockets, this garment bag will hold all your essentials.

Dimensions: 21.5" x 16.1" x 6.7"

Materials: Canvas, leather, cotton

.css-p3fpzg{font-family:NewParisTextBook,NewParisTextBook-roboto,NewParisTextBook-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:-0.015rem;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-p3fpzg b,.css-p3fpzg strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-p3fpzg em,.css-p3fpzg i{font-style:normal;font-family:NewParisTextItalic,NewParisTextItalic-roboto,NewParisTextItalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;} Why trust Harper’s Bazaar ?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.

Gaby Keiderling is a freelance writer, working on fashion, lifestyle, travel, and sports features.

The Edit: Fashion

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The 11 Best Travel Purses of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep your belongings at your side with these T+L-approved travel purses.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Other Purses We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

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

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

Organization while traveling is key, so we recommend having one designated spot for storing travel essentials like a passport, money, and technology. While you can store these items in a bigger bag en route to your destination, a more portable bag like a purse, mini backpack, or sling bag may be a better option.

We consulted our Travel + Leisure staff as well as other industry experts across our team to get recommendations for travel purses that are tried and true by frequent fliers. We received  submissions from over 30 seasoned travelers for bags they've used anywhere from six months to over four years all around the globe. We selected 11 purses that received the highest praise and broke down why we think you’ll love them, too.

Best Overall

Lo & sons o.g. 2.

Lo & Sons

• Capacity 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5

The large purse has a pocket for every travel essential you could ever need to pack.

It can get heavy when it’s packed full.

Lo & Sons makes some of our favorite travel bags, so it’s no surprise that this one came highly recommended for its spacious capacity and superior organizational features. The large shoulder bag comes with a padded laptop pocket that can store and protect devices up to 13 inches long, or you can place a laptop up to 16 inches in the main compartment, but it won’t be in the padded section.

For any other travel essentials, this bag has you covered with plenty of small pockets in the main section of the bag for phone chargers and snacks, and there’s a water bottle pocket to stay hydrated on the go. The front zippered pocket has smaller pockets inside to store grab-and-go items like a phone, wallet, and passport. Best of all, the bag has a discrete side pocket for a pair of shoes when you're using it as an overnight bag. And, of course, the more you pack the nylon bag, the heavier it will get, but it does have a trolley sleeve for securing it to a suitcase if it feels cumbersome to carry.

The Details: 16.5 x 13.75 x 6.75 inches | Nylon, Nappa leather | Water resistant | 13-inch laptop pocket

Best Overall, Runner-up

Cheruty backpack purse.

The stylish backpack has a modular design so you can carry it three ways.

The anti-theft design makes it less convenient to grab items.

Versatility is key with a travel purse, so we love that this backpack purse can be carried in multiple ways. While the purse is designed for use as a backpack with the built-in backpack straps, it also has a top handle and removable crossbody strap to convert the style as desired. Our favorite part of the backpack is the anti-theft design featuring a main compartment that is only accessible from the back zipper. There is a front zippered pocket to store small items like lip balm or a phone charger and the interior has four zippered and slip pockets for staying organized. The anti-theft design makes it a little less convenient to grab items quickly, but it offers peace of mind in crowded spaces since it’s much more difficult for pickpocketing to occur. This bag also earned praise for being effortlessly stylish thanks to the sleek faux leather look over two dozen color options.

The Details: 12.6 x 5.9 x 12.6 inches | PU leather | Convertible | 9.7-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Quince Revive Nylon Large Tote

The nylon material is super lightweight and easy to wipe-clean on the go.

It doesn’t have a top zipper.

Looking for a purse that’s easy to pack? Quince’s nylon tote bag is impressively lightweight whether you’re toting it around while sightseeing or packing it away in a bigger suitcase. While we love a leather bag, nylon material can be a safer option for travel since it’s easy to spot-clean with some soap and water on the go, and is typically lighter so it won’t weigh down your shoulder when packed full of the essentials. This tote’s interior has designated pockets for a laptop and water bottle, and various slip and zippered pockets to organize smaller items. For security reasons, it would be nice if the bag had a zip-top instead of a magnetic closure, but the slim design of the bag makes it easy to keep it close to you while traveling. The tote also has two exterior slip pockets and it comes in Oxford blue, olive, and black color options.

The Details: 17 x 13 x 7 inches | Recycled nylon | Water resistant | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Shoulder Bag

Uniqlo round mini shoulder bag.

• Capacity 2 /5

The nylon bag is easy to compress and pack down for excellent portability.

It’s not big enough to store tablets or laptops.

Crescent bags are a bit more stylish than a traditional fanny pack, but the style offers similar security to a sling bag that rests on the upper body. The simplicity of this Uniqlo shoulder bag makes it an excellent choice for travelers in search of a packable bag to store the essentials. It’s big enough to carry a phone, wallet, passport, or other smaller items, but it isn’t large enough to hold laptops or tablets. If you need to consolidate your personal belongings before getting on an airplane, this nylon bag compresses down and can be folded up to seamlessly fit in a backpack or carry-on. The water-resistant bag is also machine washable and comes in seven earthy colors. And, the purse is the most affordable option on this list if you can’t choose just one color.

The Details: 11 x 7 x 3.9 inches | Nylon | Water resistant

Travel + Leisure / Abigail Moore

Best Fanny Pack

Dagne dover ace fanny pack.

Dagne Dover

• Quality 5 /5
• Capacity 4 /5

The spacious fanny pack is made with durable and waterproof neoprene fabric.

Dirt and dust are easily attracted to the fabric.

If you’re traveling somewhere damp or rainy, you’ll want a purse made of waterproof materials to protect your belongings. This Dagne Dover fanny pack is made with the brand’s signature neoprene material that wards off inclement weather and rough handling thanks to the thick cushion of the fabric. While we love the protective material, it is prone to catching dust and dirt, but it can be easily spot-cleaned so it isn’t a deal-breaker by any means. The interior is big enough to fit phones, wallets, eReaders, and sunglasses with plenty of room to spare, but it isn’t so large that it feels bulky to wear. The nylon strap can be adjusted to wear the fanny pack comfortably around the waist and shoulder or as a crossbody sling bag, which is ideal for versatility while traveling or running errands. There are several slip pockets and a zippered one in the front to store and organize small items and the fanny pack comes in six color options.

The Details: 9.25 x 5.5 x 2.75 inches | Neoprene | Water resistant

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best Crossbody

Baggallini everywhere bagg.

The lightweight materials and adjustable crossbody strap offer all-day comfort.

The interior could benefit from a divider to separate the spacious compartment.

The Baggallini Everywhere Bag is travel expert-endorsed largely due to the fact that it offers superior comfort compared to other crossbody bags on the market. The entire bag and strap are made of a lightweight nylon fabric that won’t rub or dig when it’s being worn across the body or as a shoulder bag. Large enough to fit an iPad or tablet, the purse has an impressive capacity for storing everything from the bare necessities like a wallet and keys to tech gadgets for air travel. The medium-size purse is chock full of pockets on the inside and outside, and there’s even a discrete side pocket for easy access to phones or wallets. The main compartment has a pocket for tablets and a few small slip pockets, but we wish there was a divider or more pockets to prevent items from getting lost in the bottom of the bag. We also love that there is a trolley sleeve in the back and the bag comes with an RFID-blocking removable wristlet as a thoughtful touch.

The Details: 11 x 9 x 5 inches | Nylon | Water resistant

Best Clutch

Radley london sundown avenue weave medium flapover clutch.

Radley London

• Capacity 3 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

The compact purse can be worn as a crossbody bag or carried as a clutch.

The chain strap is not adjustable.

For travel looks that require a chic purse to complete the outfit, we recommend this convertible clutch from Radley London. It’s made with high-quality genuine leather with a woven design and elegant gold hardware that gives the purse a truly elevated design. And for the best part: it comes with a removable chain to style the purse as a crossbody or carry it as a clutch for upscale events like weddings or fancy dinners. The chain strap is effortlessly chic, but we wish it was adjustable or slightly longer since the shorter chain is a bit awkward to use with the bag. The size is small enough to fit in a backpack or suitcase, and the magnetic-closing bag can fit various small items like lipstick, credit cards, and a phone.

The Details: 11 x 6 x 4 inches | Leather | Detachable chain strap

Best Packable

Longchamp le pliage original backpack.

The backpack can fold up to a fraction of its original size.

It doesn’t offer any pockets for organization.

If you don’t want your travel purse to count as a personal item or carry-on for flying, Longchamp’s packable mini backpack is a game-changer for saving space. While the bag is already smaller in size, it can fold up with the help of built-in snap-closures to compress the backpack into a small rectangle that packs flat. The bag can then be placed into a large piece of luggage for travel and unfolded to create the perfect purse for a day of sightseeing. It can hold bulkier items like a tablet, camera, water bottle, and wallet without feeling heavy or weighed down. One thing to note is that the bag doesn’t offer organizational features like pockets, so you may want to use a small pouch to organize smaller items. The recycled polyamide canvas backpack looks elegant and it comes in seven color options, but if backpacks aren’t your preferred way of carrying items, the brand also carries a similar packable Le Pliage Original Tote Bag that came highly recommended by T+L travel experts, too.

The Details: 11 x 10.2 x 3.9 inches | Recycled polyamide canvas

Best Machine Washable

Baggu nylon crescent bag.

• Value 4.8 /5

You can toss this nylon bag in a washing machine after a trip for hassle-free upkeep.

Consider air-drying the bag to prevent pilling or shrinkage.

Traveling can speed up the typical wear and tear on a purse, especially for frequent fliers, so this machine-washable bag from Baggu makes it easy to breathe new life into it after trips. Baggu bags are notorious for being easy to pack and this larger crescent purse is no exception thanks to the flexible nylon material that can easily be compressed and folded. The medium size is surprisingly spacious with a large main section for water bottles, snacks, wallets, and a travel tablet , and two slip pockets for lip balm and keys. Plus, the nylon strap is adjustable for the most comfortable fit whether the bag is packed to the brim or with just a few items. Since all travelers have different styles, we love that the bag comes in various solid colors and bold prints to please everyone. While the bag is machine washable, we recommend hanging it up to air dry to prevent any shrinking or damage from a dryer.

The Details: 13.75 x 8 x 4 inches | Recycled heavyweight nylon

Longchamp Le Pliage Filet Mesh Bag

The material has plenty of stretch so it can hold bigger items like beach towels and jackets.

You’ll want to store keys and lip balm in a separate pouch since smaller items can fall through the mesh.

Whether vacationing somewhere tropical or swinging by the farmer’s market, this Longchamp mesh bag is a must-pack. Compact and easy to store in a bigger purse, the bag turns into a Mary Poppins bag once you begin packing it. From jean jackets to beach towels, the cotton mesh material has the slightest bit of stretch to hold bulkier items without anything falling through the perforated design. It can also store fruit, veggies, and flowers if you come across an unexpected farmer’s market while traveling. For smaller items, we recommend using a smaller pouch to keep keys, lip balm, and other skinny items safeguarded from the netting. Depending on your personal style, the bag comes in six color options featuring neutrals like white and brown or bolder colors like pink and green.

The Details: 15 x 12.2 inches | Cotton, gold hardware

Best for Laptops

John fluevog shoes nashua laptop bag.

John Fluevog Shoes

• Value 4.5 /5

This compact laptop bag comes with tote handles and a crossbody strap that offers both a comfortable and convertible design.

Larger laptops might be a tighter fit.

This recommended John Fluvog leather laptop purse offers protection for your technology while traveling. It’s basically a laptop case with straps to carry it as a crossbody or tote bag, so we love that it’s specifically designed for computers. The removable crossbody strap is made with the same soft leather material and it boasts two little pockets to store small items like lip balm or earbuds that are easy to access from the strap. The interior has a designated slip pocket that can store laptops up to 15 inches long, but anything bigger might be a tight squeeze or not fit at all. Aside from a laptop, travelers can store small water bottles, snacks, notebooks, headphones, or any other essentials in the spacious main compartment. There is a front zippered pocket to conveniently access boarding passes or a phone while traveling. With several color and texture options, shoppers have the choice between black and blue color options made with soft pebbled leather and a brown color made with sleek smooth leather.

The Details: 15 x 11.25 x 2.25 inches | Pebbled leather

Other Travel Purses We Liked

Several travel purses still came highly recommended, but didn’t have as much praise compared to our winner’s list.

Madewell The Transport Saddlebag : The crossbody bag has lots of space to hold travel essentials, but the leather strap isn’t the most comfortable for long periods of time.

Senreve Midi Maestra Bag : We love that the modular design makes it easy to carry the bag in three different ways, but the medium size is a bit awkward for travel since it’s too small to hold a laptop and too bulky to pack in a suitcase.

With recommendations from T+L editors and other trusted travel experts on our team, we compiled this of tried-and-true travel purses. While we accepted all submissions, we narrowed the list down to 11 options that stood out for quality, capacity, and portability. Each bag recommended has been used for at least six months (some have been tested for over four years) and has traveled all around the world with us on various trip types.

Tips for Buying a Travel Purse

Know your storage and organization needs.

Whether you’re a minimalist or maximalist packer, there’s a travel purse out there to fit your needs. For travelers in need of extra space for larger wallets or laptops, we recommend a tote bag or medium-size backpack that often have designated pockets for items of different sizes. Crossbody, sling, and shoulder bags are best for storing just the essentials like phones, credit cards, earbuds, or a small wallet. For an even more streamlined option, a phone purse could be a good choice.

Prioritize comfort

Comfort while traveling is essential, so if you know you’re an over-packer, opt for a backpack or purse with thick, padded straps to help distribute the weight and provide cushioning. In general, you want to look for bags that don't have thin straps (often crossbody bags) since this can often cause discomfort or rubbing.

Think about anti-theft protection

Pickpocketing is a very real threat when traveling and the best way to avoid it is by making sure all of your valuables aren’t easily accessible. Anti-theft protection in travel purses can vary, but the common traits include discrete pockets in the back or interior of the purse, lockable zippers, and cut-resistant fabric.

A personal item is anything (allowed on an airplane, of course) that can fit underneath the seat. That means that purses, backpacks, totes, shopping bags, or laptop cases can count as your allotted personal item. If the airline is strict about personal items, you can always stick your purse inside of a backpack or carry-on to consolidate the number of items.

It depends on the material the purse is made out of and the type of fabric lining. In general, purses should come with manufacturing cleaning instructions, but if not, you can always opt for some soap and water to gently spot clean until you can get the bag professionally cleaned or into a washing machine if allowed.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer, Anna Popp , writes nearly all of the team’s Travel + Leisure Tested articles and participates in product testing from luggage and shoes to outdoor gear and apparel. Anna sifted through testing notes from dozens of bag submissions and pulled from her knowledge of travel accessories to recommend the best travel purses.

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Love Exploring

Canada's Best Remote Cabins And Tiny Homes

Posted: April 28, 2024 | Last updated: April 28, 2024

Cool Canadian cabins

If you like the sound of disconnecting from the hubbub of daily life, getting acquainted with nature, and being miles from civilization, with spectacular views to boot, then these remote tiny homes and cozy cabins are sure to seduce. From a lighthouse-shaped retreat in New Brunswick to a gorgeous treehouse on the slopes of Mont-Tremblant in Quebec, these clandestine cabins will be enough to get you packing your bags.

Click or scroll to step inside Canada's best-hidden hideaways...

Hygge cabin, Lac-Beauport, Quebec

Cozy, secluded, and incredibly romantic, this hygge cabin is positioned on the side of Mont-Tourbillon but, handily, is just 20 minutes from Quebec City. The cabin was designed to be a place where guests could immerse themselves in nature, recharge their batteries, practice their favorite sporting activity, and spend quality time with family or friends.

Akin to a modern treehouse, it features two floors – one of which is covered in mirrors to reflect the stunning surrounding landscape.

Inside, the cabin is modern and light-filled, with exposed timber surfaces that allow the interior to subtly merge with the woodland. There's a lounge, a dining area, and a kitchen on the first floor, as well as a king bedroom and luxe bathroom on the ground level.

A queen sofa bed sits in a hidden loft, so the property can accommodate up to four people. The living spaces connect to a huge terrace, where idyllic scenery can be savored while you soak in the outdoor hot tub.

With an open layout, the master bathroom has all-glass walls that allow for dreamy woodland views, while fluffy robes add to the romance. There's also a sunken bathtub, positioned next to the window, so you can become one with nature while you soak.

What's more, the stilted chalet is bike in/bike out and is only a few minutes' drive from the region's ski slopes, making it the ultimate getaway spot for all seasons.

Grindstone Lighthouse, Hopewell Hill, New Brunswick

There are plenty of quirky and surprising properties in Canada and this is just one of them. Located close to Fundy National Park in Hopewell Hill, New Brunswick, this lighthouse-themed tiny home is weird and wonderful in equal measure.

Secluded on top of a hillside, with sweeping valley views, the pad would provide an unforgettable stay.

Despite its façade, the property isn't actually a lighthouse – it's just been crafted to resemble one. While the exterior is defined by a white and red paint scheme and a tent-like shape, the interior is characterful and cozy, with rotund walls and big windows that frame dreamy views.

The ground floor provides a sitting area, dining zone, kitchen, and bathroom.

A narrow wooden staircase leads up to a snug sleeping loft, where a double bed can be found. It's positioned underneath the home's faux beacon and thanks to its tiny glass panels, would allow any lucky guests to take in views of the stars from the comfort of their sheets.

Shipping container tiny home, Les Éboulements, Quebec

Over in the Les Éboulements municipality of Quebec, you'll find this impressive tiny home – formed from a single steel shipping container. The cool converted home is known as the Shiship and is nestled inside a dense and tranquil forest.

While it's clear from the outside that the property is a shipping container, you wouldn't know when you step inside. Warm, inviting, and perfectly designed, the pad is small but mighty.

There's a large queen bed with panoramic views of the stars and forest, a lounge area with a sofa bed, a fully equipped kitchen, a small dining space, and a beautifully bright bathroom.

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Plus, guests can enjoy access to a private terrace with an outdoor fire pit and a hot tub that's located in the middle of the forest. What could be more relaxing than that?

Coal Cabin, Nordegg, Alberta

Aptly named, Coal Cabin is jet black against the lush greenery that surrounds it. The cozy retreat is positioned on a beautiful one-acre parcel in North Nordegg, Alberta, with nothing but towering trees, wildlife, and a sky of stars for miles around.

Sounds pretty idyllic, doesn't it?

The cabin was recently constructed, so it's bang up to date, with gorgeous interior design and all the mod cons you could want for a weekend away in the wilderness. It boasts an open-plan layout with a living room, kitchen, dining room, and three bedrooms, all with vaulted cedar ceilings and massive mountain-facing windows.

There are even radiant heated floors, to keep guests warm no matter what the weather.

Guests can split their time between the welcoming interior and the cabin's dreamy backyard. It comes complete with a south-facing deck, a firepit area for toasting marshmallows, twinkly fairy lights, and, best of all, a barrel sauna – perfect for relaxing and unwinding after a day of snowshoeing or hiking. 

South Shore Cottage, Rose Bay, Nova Scotia

Pretty in pink, this property is as adorable as it is inviting. Known as South Shore Cottage , it might not look like much from the outside, but it's located in one of Canada's most enchanting places: Rose Bay, Nova Scotia. Moments from the beach, the teeny cottage is secluded but handily just 20 minutes from Lunenburg – one of Canada's prettiest locales. Let's head inside...

The building was once a general store but thanks to a recent renovation, it's now a charming holiday home with 1,200 square feet of bright and modern living space. Hand-hewn beams and historic store shelves can still be found inside, transporting any guests back in time.

The design for the property was inspired by the Cape Cod cottages common in the area and there's no denying the interior is incredibly calming.

As well as a lovely lounge, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom – which has an intimate soaker tub – the property also comes with an outdoor living space with a BBQ and firepit. There's even a wood-burning hot tub that provides views of the water.

Hear the birds chirping, feel the ocean breeze, and watch local wildlife while you soak.

La Cabin, Lac-Beauport, Quebec

Suitably named, La Cabin lies in Quebec, close to the waters of Lake Beauport. Balancing on a rocky plinth at the top of Mont-Tourbillon, some 1,902 feet above sea level, the property is secluded and provides truly magnificent vistas.

Step out the front door and you'll immediately be on one of the area's renowned hiking trails.

The ultimate holiday home, La Cabin was cleverly positioned to ensure the interior captures dreamy sunset and sunrise views, while every inch of space inside has been maximized. It was also designed to ensure guests are warm and cozy, even in extremely cold weather.

This is owed to a solar panel array, two auxiliary heaters, and a high-performance wood stove.

As for the interior, the residence allows the landscape outside to do all the talking, thanks to large windows. There's a kitchen, lounge, dining area, and four beds. 

The woodland is referenced in the home's exposed timber walls, floors, and ceilings while space-saving furnishings ensure there's plenty of storage. The cabin also boasts several hidden surprises, such as suspended nest hammocks and floating beds.

Red glamping hut, Belleville, Ontario

The ultimate glamping hideaway, this cozy cabin is truly one of a kind. Located on the outskirts of Belleville, Ontario, the vibrant property enjoys seclusion on a 30-acre estate, as well as being just a 40-minute drive from the city center.

Benefitting from an idyllic lakeside position, the red cabin all but disappears when autumn arrives and the leaves begin to change color. Plus, with hiking, kayaking, and swimming available right outside, you'd be forgiven for never wanting to leave...

The beautiful building appears to be standing on its end and measures just 100 square feet. Unlike most other tiny homes, it offers a vertical layout and has been cleverly designed to provide ample living space for work, rest, and play.

While the ground floor benefits from a cozy living area and kitchenette, the first-floor mezzanine is the ultimate bedroom oasis.

In complete contrast to the bright red corrugated steel of the exterior, the interior has light, slatted pine walls, and ceilings, as well as an abundance of windows, allowing plenty of natural light to puncture every inch. There’s no bathroom inside, but a nearby outhouse offers a toilet and an open-air shower.

A fantastic year-round retreat, the glamping hut also provides an outdoor terrace with chairs, blankets, and a roaring firepit. 

Mont-Tremblant Treehouses, Mont-Blanc, Quebec

Part treehouse, part getaway tiny house, this compact timber dwelling enjoys a clandestine position deep inside the woodlands of  Mont-Tremblant National Park , in Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carré, Quebec. What's even better, the wooden house sits on the edge of a pristine lake and boasts a 2,000-acre playground right outside its front door. Let's take a look inside...

Suitable for up to six people at any one time, the cabin offers just one small room, yet it features everything a person could possibly need. There's a basic kitchen, comfy bunk beds, and a small seating area with a wood-burning stove, for post-hike R&R. 

Plus, thanks to its natural timber palette and minimalist fixtures, this rustic treehouse offers a real taste of off-grid living.

Yet the view is perhaps the best thing about this property. Step out onto the extensive exterior terrace, which has a firepit and picnic table, and soak up the incredible landscape. From towering trees to the park's glistening lake, this is a paradise for lovers of the great outdoors.

What's more, with 22 miles of walking and snowshoe trails, four lakes, and a wetland area awaiting exploration, the hideaway ticks all the right boxes.

'Ome Pod, Burlington, Newfoundland and Labrador

We're sure you'll agree that the 'Ome Pod needs very little introduction. Nestled on the edge of the ocean in the heart of Iceberg Alley in Newfoundland and Labrador, the teeny cabin invites its guests to embrace nature, disconnect from the digital world, and simply soak up spectacular scenery.

The modern structure is simple yet well-equipped, with a living area and kitchen on the ground floor and a snug sleeping loft upstairs, all with beautiful hardwood floors and tongue and groove pine walls. There’s a log-burning stove to keep you toasty and big windows for taking in lovely views from the comfort of the couch.

Eco-friendly, too, it runs entirely on solar energy.

However, for any lucky visitors to this pod, it's really all about what's going on outside. Not only is this remote area renowned for its incredible ocean icebergs, but it also has a very clear night sky, which means stargazing can be enjoyed almost every night.

The terrace is the perfect place to sit and take it all in.

La Colombière, Sutton, Quebec

La Colombière was originally created as a small storage space for a local lumberjack but was later transformed into a home by its new owner. Redesigned by  yh2 Architecture  in 2015, the clandestine cabin is rustic and contemporary at the same time. 

While the outside is clad in dark cedar to match the surrounding conifer trees, the inside is a wonderland of modern design.

To protect the surrounding landscape of Sutton, Quebec, the woodland was left entirely untouched during the build, allowing the trees to grow naturally around the property – resulting in ultimate seclusion. Once laid out over a single floor, the retreat now expands across three levels and spans 1,300 square feet.

Light, bright, and beautiful, the contemporary cottage is also ultra-chic, with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that enable the interior and exterior to softly melt together.

With exposed construction materials offering a direct link between the interior and the trees outside, a simple all-white color palette also allows for a spacious and bright finish. The ground floor is home to a stunning open-plan lounge and kitchen, while the top floor is set up as a master bedroom – its diamond-shaped window taking center stage. 

The room leads out to a covered terrace – the perfect spot from which to admire the scenery.

Teeny tiny home, Roberts Creek, British Columbia

The Roberts Creek Park Tiny House is every downsizer's dream come true. The handmade cabin is sweet and petite in equal measure and is perfectly designed for two people.

Despite looking like a child's doll's house from the outside, the cabin is surprisingly spacious inside. Let's take a look...

Nestled among the giant cedars of Roberts Creek Provincial Park in British Columbia, the green-colored hut perfectly blends into its woodland setting. Inside, expansive windows allow for amazing landscape views and beautifully connect the exterior with the interior.

White walls, soaring ceilings, and natural timber accents also make the inside seem much larger than it actually is.

Cozy and well-equipped, the quaint tiny house features everything you'd expect to find in any regular home. From a practical kitchenette to a snug living and dining area, the abode also features a compact mezzanine level with a queen-sized bed.

Plus, with the walking trails and scenery of Roberts Creek right outside its front door, and this gorgeous little outdoor bed, you'd be well-positioned for switching off from the rat race and reconnecting with nature.

La Pointe, Poisson Blanc Regional Park, Ottawa

Designed by the architects at  L'Abri , this stunning tiny home can be found concealed inside Poisson Blanc Regional Park, in Ottawa. Known as La Pointe (or The Point), the angular residence is a reinterpretation of classic A-frame buildings popularised across North America during the 1950s.

Traditional yet modern in its aesthetic, the dwelling sits completely off-grid and is powered entirely by the sun's rays.

Built in 2018, La Pointe was designed for four adults and was put together in a matter of weeks. Secluded among the trees of the national park, the hidden hideaway can only be accessed by a footpath and enjoys an idyllic location next to a lake.

While the exterior is clad in cedar to match its backdrop, the roof is decorated with metal seam panels for maximum durability.

Inside, the cabin features one room but a loft space, suspended from the ceiling by steel rods, provides a private sleeping zone. The ground floor is home to a bright living area, complete with a kitchenette, lounge, and dining table – the latter of which can be lowered to create an additional bed.

Rustic and minimalist, the tiny home also features a log-burning stove, an outdoor BBQ terrace, and endless woodland scenery – what could be better?

Tiny mountain home, Salt Spring Island, British Columbia

This Airbnb  tiny home can be found nestled in the woods of the highly sought-after Salt Spring Island in British Columbia. Just moments from Mount Maxwell Provincial Park, the custom-made cabin was built in 2019 and makes the most of the serene mountain landscape that surrounds it.

With three charming acres of land to play with, as well as an attractive creek, the dreamy dwelling is pure bliss.

Perfect for a romantic getaway, the cozy tiny house lies at the bottom of the Cranberry Valley and offers just 96 square feet of interior space. A lovely south-facing deck is the perfect spot for an evening tipple or a romantic sunset dinner, while those who prefer outdoor adventure will adore the amazing hiking trails that can be found right outside the front door.

Inside, there's a cozy living room with a kitchen and seating area, while a loft provides a spacious bedroom that enjoys views over the woodland. Simple timber cladding allows the home to subtly blend into its surroundings, while the interior is warm and traditional, and perfectly reflects the scenery outside. 

There's also a separate washroom and open-air shower, for the ultimate natural bathing experience.

Le Lagöm, Lac-Beauport, Quebec

Known as  Le Lagöm , a Swedish word meaning "just the right amount," this envy-inducing retreat can be found on a stunning elevated plot overlooking the mountains of Lac-Beauport and the Saint Laurent River. Secluded among towering trees, the timber tiny home has been described as an ecologic chalet and runs entirely off solar power, making it as sustainable as it is attractive.

Designed to immerse the occupier in nature, the contemporary crib offers entire walls of glass, allowing for uninterrupted views. The interior covers just 377 square feet and benefits from a spacious kitchen and a lounge that leads directly onto an exterior deck – which comes complete with a living area, a hammock, and yoga mats. In winter, simply curl up around the log-burning stove.

The home's subtle interior palette allows it to melt into the background, especially during the winter months when a blanket of snow covers the ground. Perfect for four guests, the compact cabin offers a sofa bed and a large mezzanine level with a king-sized bed – the only spot to take in the beautiful sunsets that this area is known for. As far as hidden tiny homes go, Le Lagöm is up there with the best of them!

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