international travel cabin bag

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Suitcases + Duffel Bags

The 10 Best International Carry-ons of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Here is everything you need to know about carry-on size restrictions for international flights.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

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

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Dealing with luggage can be one of the most frustrating parts of traveling, especially when each airline has different rules and regulations when it comes to carry-on bags. Since domestic carry-on suitcases won’t meet the stricter limitations of 21.7 x 15.9 x 9 inches set by most international airlines, we sifted through all of our tested luggage to recommend the best carry-ons that fit these requirements.

Whether you’re backpacking through Asia or river-cruising through Europe, we selected backpacks, suitcases, and duffel bags that fit any adventure that requires an international flight. All of the bags we recommend below have been thoroughly tested in our New York City lab and during our real-world travels. We even built an airplane set featuring a real row of seats and an overhead bin to test the bags in as many ways as we could. We evaluated each based on design, capacity, durability, and maneuverability so you can feel confident in your luggage pick for upcoming trips abroad.

Best Overall

Away the carry-on.

It's lightweight, despite how much it holds, and is one of the easier bags to lift into overhead bins thanks to top and bottom handles.

The bag is not expandable.

This sleek bag is incredibly spacious, despite the fact that it doesn't expand. It easily fit everything included on our packing list as well as an additional pair of sneakers. The lid of the case acts as it's own storage compartment, keeping items separate from the bottom half for easy organization. The lid also has a mesh zippered pocket with plenty of give so you can pack it full without your items spilling out upon closing.

The overall size of the bag is not at all cumbersome and is so light, it's easy to lift into storage bins and navigate across a range of surfaces with ease. We also love that the handle does have two different heights and did not get stuck (even after we hit it with a baseball bat). The shiny exterior did not crack, scratch, or scuff after pushing the suitcase off a counter and hitting it with a bat, so we're sure it would even survive needing to be gate-checked.

The Details: 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches | 7.5 pounds | Polycarbonate | Personalization option

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best With Laptop Compartment

July carry on pro snapsleeve.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

The suitcase has extra features like a detachable laptop pocket and a USB port.

The outer laptop sleeve will come off with rough handling, so we recommend removing before storing the suitcase in overhead bins.

Characteristic of July's best luggage , the brand's Carry-on Pro suitcase has plenty of helpful features for ensuring a smooth packing and traveling experience. We love the sleek design and earth-toned color options, but our favorite part of the carry-on is the detachable front pocket for seamlessly traveling with a laptop. You can remove the padded pocket to use it as a laptop case, which is particularly useful for business travelers — an important feature to look for when shopping for carry-on luggage with a dedicated laptop compartment . Plus, the suitcase is outfitted with smart features, including USB and USB-C charging ports, a removable battery, and TSA-approved locks.

The interior of the carry-on is a breeze to pack thanks to the two spacious clamshell-style compartments, built-in compression system, and hidden laundry bag for keeping dirty clothes organized. And, even when the suitcase is packed full, we had no issues wheeling it over all types of surfaces with the help of the four 360-degree spinning wheels and adjustable handles. If you’re planning on gifting this suitcase or just want to add an extra special touch, you can personalize the bag with a name or initials for an extra fee.

The Details: 21.5 x 15 x 8.5 inches | 8.6 pounds | Polycarbonate | Front pocket | Personalization option

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Most Durable

Bric's bellagio v2.0 carry-on spinner trunk.

Saks Fifth Avenue

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

The hardside material doesn’t scratch or dent easily.

It can be tricky to adjust the handle.

Small but mighty, we recommend this Bric’s carry-on if you’re in search of a suitcase that can handle everything from rough handling at the airport to the cobblestone streets of Paris . Made with a hardy polycarbonate shell and water-resistant zippers, this bag is equipped with all the necessary features for a lifetime of travels. In testing, we didn’t hold back on our durability test with the baseball bat by whacking it from all angles (wheels included) and tossing it off of a table to see if the exterior would hold up. We were thrilled to see that the bag didn’t scratch, dent, or crack under the pressure, and there was just a tiny scuff that we could rub off easily.

Apart from the superb durability, this suitcase has solid organization features on the interior with two main zippered compartments and pockets for smaller items — must-have qualities for a great travel trunk . While the handle feels plenty sturdy, we had some slight issues with it sticking, but we’re chalking that up to a slight inconvenience instead of a deal-breaker.

The Details: 21.7 x 15 x 7.9 inches | 7.1 pounds | Polycarbonate

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Softside

It luggage softside carry-on spinner.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Organization 5 /5
• Durability 4 /5

The monochrome color is super stylish, which can be hard to find in softside luggage.

The material feels lower in quality compared to some other suitcases we've tried.

Hardside luggage is certainly having a moment, but this softside carry-on earned bonus points in testing for style thanks to the monochromatic coloring. From wheels to handle, this bag boasts a bold teal shade, which means it's never been easier to spot your bag in a sea of navy and black suitcases (though it's also available in charcoal for a more muted vibe). The suitcase has one main compartment that can easily fit outfits, accessories, and shoes for a week-long vacation. The interior has a zippered pocket and two elastic pockets, while the exterior has one spacious zippered pocket for storing electronics or anything else you need quick access to. During our durability tests, the fabric and wheels scuffed a bit so we think the material isn't as durable as some other softside suitcases we tried. However, the stylish and lightweight design of that suitcase makes it a great option for travelers looking for a colorful and functional bag. Note: the bag is expandable but that might make it go over the stricter international carry-on restrictions.

The Details: 21.7 x 14.2 x 7.9 inches | 5.95 pounds | Nylon, polyester | Expandable

Best Budget

Amazon basics hardside spinner.

The hardside material is extremely durable when it comes to rough handling.

The suitcase is fairly basic and doesn’t come with extra features.

If you realize your suitcase is too large with days to spare before an international trip , Amazon Basics has you covered with fast shipping for Prime members. The 21-inch hardside spinner is made with a heavy-duty ABS material that proved to be exceptionally durable when we whacked the case with a baseball bat and tossed it off of a ladder. True to name, the interior of the suitcase has a minimalist design with two clamshell compartments, several zippered pockets, and compression straps. There could be a few more organizational features, but the suitcase was still very easy to pack and fill with clothing items, shoes, and a toiletry case. The spinner wheels rolled smoothly and the handle felt just as sturdy as the rest of the suitcase, so we think the bag has excellent value, especially for under $100.

The Details: 21.46 x 14.76 x 9.45 inches | 7.34 pounds | ABS | Expandable

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Best Splurge

Rimowa original cabin.

The compression system on either side of the suitcase is a game changer for saving space.

The aluminum material scuffs easily.

Rimowa is top of the line when it comes to suitcase brands, and we think the Original Cabin carry-on is worth the investment. The exterior of this aluminum suitcase looks luxurious, and the interior offers plenty of functional features that make both packing and traveling a breeze. We’re big fans of the compression dividers on each compartment that help condense clothing and keep packed items in place during transit and when you open up the suitcase. The luggage itself weighs 9.5 pounds, which isn’t the lightest, but we’ve never had any issues lifting it overhead, and the ball-bearing mounted wheels glide over cobblestone and pavement without any extra effort needed. One thing to note is that aluminum luggage does scratch and dent easier than polycarbonate cases, but rest assured that the sturdy material will be more resistant to cracks and will still keep your belongings safe.

The Details: 21.7 x 15.8 x 9.1 inches | 9.5 pounds | Aluminum

Delsey Chatelet Air 2.0 Carry-on Spinner

• Organization 4 /5
• Design 3.5 /5

It’s easy to maneuver through an airport with a sturdy handle and spinner wheels.

The carry-on can’t fit more than a few days’ worth of clothing.

This carry-on from Delsey comes in the brand’s most iconic design for looking effortlessly chic and elegant while traveling. While light-colored suitcases can be a dicey option, the suitcase is incredibly durable, and we didn’t see any scuffs, scratches, or dents tarnish the cream-colored bag after we hit it with a baseball bat and tossed it off of a ladder. Throughout our three months of long-term testing, we even checked this bag twice, and it came out still looking sleek and new. To complement a neutral suitcase exterior (which also comes in brown, blue, and blush), the interior is lined with a bolder orange color with several pockets and compression straps for packing. While the capacity is on the smaller end for a carry-on, we love that the compact size makes it incredibly easy to wheel the bag through the airport or lift it overhead for a smooth travel experience.

The Details: 21 x 13 x 10 inches | 6.4 pounds | Polycarbonate | USB port

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Best Backpack

Tortuga travel backpack.

• Comfort 5 /5

The capacity is just as big as a regular carry-on.

It can feel a bit heavy when it’s full.

The best part of Tortuga’s Travel Backpack is that it’s basically a suitcase without wheels. The 40-liter capacity rivals the volume of any carry-on and the backpack also has clamshell compartments for simple packing. Designed to fit a week’s worth of clothing, the bag can easily store enough clothing for a longer international trip, and we were even able to fit a packed tent with other clothing for a camping trip. Although the bag can get a bit heavy when it’s packed full, the padded back panel, straps, and hip belt helps distribute the weight to help with comfort while traveling. Other helpful features include a padded laptop sleeve, small zippered pockets, and two water bottle pockets. We can’t forget to mention that the bag is made with recycled sailcloth and is fully waterproof to protect your belongings if the weather takes a turn.

The Details: 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches | 4.5 pounds | Recycled sailcloth | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Best Underseat

Calpak hue mini carry-on luggage.

• Functionality 5 /5

The interior has excellent organizational features for clothing and technology.

The capacity (31.2 liters) could be too small for a longer trip.

Skip the stress of finding space in an overhead bin with Calpak’s Hue Mini underseater suitcase. To prove that it can fit under an airplane seat, we recreated that space in our lab and we had no issues sliding it into the spot. However, our favorite aspect of the suitcase is that the interior has superior organizational features for making the most out of the smaller capacity. There is a designated laptop pocket and several other mesh pockets for smaller items like undergarments, toiletries, or phone chargers. The other compartment is plenty spacious for clothing and a pair of shoes for a short trip. There aren’t any pockets on the exterior, but we still think the interior pockets more than make up for the lack of outside organization.

The Details: 16 x 14 x 8.5 inches | 6.4 pounds | Polycarbonate

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Wheeled Duffel

Vera bradley foldable rolling duffel bag.

 Amazon

• Portability 5 /5
• Value 4.6 /5
• Durability 4.6 /5

It has a separate bottom compartment for keeping shoes and clothing separate.

The materials don’t feel as durable as other duffel bags we’ve tried.

This carry-on duffel bag from Vera Bradley has tons of hidden features that make it an excellent piece of luggage to add to your collection. It’s small and lightweight enough that you can carry it like a tote bag, or you can opt to use the wheels and discrete handle that pops out to convert the duffel into a traditional suitcase so you won't have to choose between a weekender or duffel bag . During testing, we also loved that the duffel has a separate shoe compartment on the bottom of the bag for separating clothing from shoes or any other items you might not want to pack in the main compartment. The suitcase has one large zippered mesh pocket on the inside of the opening flap and one exterior pocket. While the bag feels durable and long-lasting, the ripstop polyester material isn’t waterproof, so you may not want to use this as a checked suitcase.

The Details: 21 x 13 x 10 inches | 5.6 pounds | Ripstop polyester

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Other International Carry-ons We Liked

The suitcases highlighted below still scored highly during testing but we ran into some slight issues with maneuverability.

Coolife Carry-on with Pocket : The suitcase has some extra give which helps with packing, but it didn’t maneuver as well around obstacles as the other cases we tried.

Steamline Luggage The Sweetheart Carry-on : This vintage-style trunk would be ideal for a honeymoon or a trip to Paris, but it also only has two wheels which isn’t ideal for uneven terrain or crowded airports.

Since luggage is one of our favorite categories to test at Travel + Leisure , we’ve tested more than 450 pieces of luggage in both our lab using our airplane set and in real-world settings. We selected carry-ons from trusted brands like Away, Delsey, July, Béis, and more to evaluate based on traits like capacity, design, maneuverability, and durability to recommend the best ones on the market. To put together our best recommendations for international carry-ons, we selected our top-performing bags that fit under the general 21.7-inch maximum luggage height for most international airlines.

First, we test each suitcase in our New York City lab by putting the bags through a series of tests that kick off with packing the luggage with various clothing items, shoes, a toiletry bag, and other travel necessities. Then, we roll the wheeled luggage around cones and over gravel, carpet, and stone to judge the maneuverability and smoothness of the wheels. The last (and possibly best) part of the test includes dropping the suitcases off of a table and hitting them with a baseball bat several times to gauge the durability. We also use our airplane set to lift the bags into real overhead bins and to see how well they fit underneath real airplane seats. After lab testing is complete, we send out each suitcase for our editors to continue testing while traveling.

Tips for Buying an International Carry-on

Factor in trip type and destination.

Suitcases, backpacks, and duffel bags all count as carry-ons as long as the bag is under the size limitations set by the airline. For destinations that require bulkier clothing like Iceland, or most countries in the winter, you might want to plan on bringing a checked bag for clothes and one of the smaller carry-on suitcases. If you’re planning on backpacking during your international travels where lighter packing is required, we recommend traveling with a carry-on that has superb portability like a backpack or wheeled duffel.

Consider weight

Most international airlines have carry-on weight limits of 15 to 22 pounds, so you might want to invest in a portable luggage scale to ensure your bag is under the weight limit. However, British Airways offers the least strict weight restrictions since they allow you to carry a bag up to 50 pounds. It’s important to double-check with your airline before you begin packing for your trip to confirm the size restrictions ahead of time, especially if you tend to push the limits of your expandable luggage .

Look for organizational features

Since international carry-ons have to be a bit smaller than usual, the amount of usable space also decreases. Organizational features can be a game-changer for making the most out of your carry-on, so be sure to look for suitcases with compression straps to pack down clothing or exterior pockets for laptops or other last-minute items. If your suitcase doesn’t offer many pockets or a compression system, packing cubes can help with saving space and organization, too.

Generally, international carry-ons have to be smaller than the standard size carry-on for domestic flights, which is about 22 x 14 x 9 inches. International carry-ons usually have to be under 21.7 inches in height, including the handle and wheels, and there are often stricter weight limits, too. The part that makes things slightly difficult is that size restrictions vary by carrier, so you’ll need to check ahead of time to prevent any last-minute baggage fees or gate-checking your suitcase.

Just like dimensions, weight limitations are determined by each individual airline, so it’s essential to check with your carrier before arriving at the airport. Most international airlines require carry-ons to weigh less than 15 to 22 pounds with the exception of several larger carriers — like British Airways, KLM, and Air France — that have less strict limitations.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at T+L, where she reviews travel products and writes most of the team’s tested content. Anna participated in all of the luggage testing that has occurred in the last year and she combed through notes from various luggage tests completed by T+L to write about the best carry-ons that fit under the common size restrictions set by international airlines.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Protect Your Trip »

The best carry-on luggage of 2024.

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

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

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

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

Best Overall: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Original – Large

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

Best Hard-sided: Away The Carry-On

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

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

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

Best luxury: carl friedrik the carry-on pro.

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

Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

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

Price:  $315 or less

Dimensions: 22.4 x 14.6 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds; 8.85 pounds with closet insert Packing capacity: 4-7 days |  Color options:  Red, purple, navy or 6 others, plus precious metals options Hard- or soft-sided:  Hard-sided   | Warranty: Lifetime

Sturdy and attractive, this suitcase is set apart from the rest by its patented and removable shelving system. This unique design feature makes packing easier, keeps items in place and removes the need for unpacking at your destination. Rather than a zippered clamshell design, the Solgaard Carry-on Closet has two latches that open with just the squeeze of two levers together; it secures with a TSA-approved lock.

The waterproof polycarbonate exterior has an aluminum frame and corner guards so this suitcase can withstand all the rigors of travel. There's also an ergonomic handle and frictionless wheels, which make it easy to maneuver on all types of terrain. What's more, this sustainable suitcase helps to repurpose 6 pounds of plastics that may have ended up in the ocean.

What our editors say:

This carry-on suitcase has it all! From the power bank (sold separately) to the super sturdy and comfortable handle to the removable closet feature – not to mention the attractive yet functional appearance – this suitcase packs a punch. I really like how easy it is to pull on a variety of surfaces, including carpet and brick. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

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

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $369.99 or less

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

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

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

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

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $275 or less

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

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

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

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

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $199.99 or less

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

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

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

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

Price: $245 or less

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

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

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

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $179.99 or less

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

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

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

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

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

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Price: $80 or less

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $699 or less

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

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $165 or less

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

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

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

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

Price: $83 or less

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

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

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

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

Price: $565 or less

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $270 or less

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

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

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

Price: $200 or less

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

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

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

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

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

Also Recommended

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

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

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

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

Pros and Cons of Hard-sided Luggage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How We Tested

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

You might also be interested in:

• What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

12 cheap fourth of july getaways.

April 29, 2024

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

Laura French April 29, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

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.

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

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

Caroline Morse Teel

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

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

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

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

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

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

E-mail her at [email protected] .

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 15” x 10” x 23”

Weight: 6.4 lbs

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

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

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

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

Dimensions:  9” x 16.25” x 22”

Weight: 7.7 lbs

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 13.75” x 10.25” x 21.75”

Weight: 6.7 lbs

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 23” x 14.5” x 9” 

Weight: 5.4 lbs

Best Luggage Trackers

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 21.65” x 14” x 10”

Weight: 8 lbs 12 oz

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

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″

Weight: 7.5 lbs

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 22.0″ X 16.0″ X 9.0″

Weight: 11.1 lbs

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 20” x 12.5” x 10”

Weight: 3.3 lbs

5 Simple Ways to Make Travel Easier in 2024

How We Tested These Carry-Ons

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

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

• Size and weight
• Ease of transportation
• Organizational features

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

What Size is a Carry-On Suitcase

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

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

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

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

Is There a Weight Limit for Carry-Ons?

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

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

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

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

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

You Might Also Like:

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

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Southern Italy: 8-Night Tour, Incl. Naples,...

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Shop and Save with Country Inns...

Patricia Magaña

Trending on SmarterTravel

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

The 16 Best Carry-On Luggage Bags for Any Traveler in 2024

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

779 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

34 Published Articles 3147 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Things To Consider With Carry-On Luggage

For every type of traveler, for the fashion-forward traveler, premium suitcase that really go the distance [we use this one], for the budget-conscious traveler, the bang-for-your-buck hard-shell carry-on, for travelers looking for a truly lightweight carry-on, for samsonite luggage lovers, for frequent flyers who want chic design, for the tech-heavy business traveler, designed for the practical traveler, for the discerning traveler, for the traveler who always packs too much, for the really modern traveler, for those serious about traveling the world, the backpack to stay organized on the go, the best design for the cool backpacker, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Cabin bags have revolutionized the way we travel. With airlines charging extras fees for checked luggage , more and more of us are cramming our belongings into little carry-on bags.

If you pack well, you can get pretty much everything you need into these compact cases — and you will also reap the rewards of not having to waste time at baggage claim when you arrive at your destination.

Most U.S. airlines will have strict rules about the amount of carry-on luggage a traveler can have with them, as well as the size of the items they bring on board. Items that are too large, too heavy, or restricted won’t be allowed to travel with you and will need to be checked instead.

Every airline is different , but as a general rule you’ll be allowed the following per passenger:

• 1 small purse or laptop bag
• 1 small cabin bag measuring no more than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (some airlines have even tighter restrictions, so check before traveling)

The usual rule for carry-on luggage is that it must weigh less than 40 pounds, including the weight of the bag itself. If you want to be sure before you fly, weigh your bag using a good scale before you leave home .

If your bag is too heavy, it will be stowed in the hold. Carry-on luggage is placed in the overhead lockers — too heavy and it’s a safety risk since too many heavy bags make for a dangerous flying environment.

Need to fly with your suitcase full of weighty items? Opt for checked baggage instead.

Material and Durability

Unlike your checked luggage, your carry-on bag will stay close to you for the duration of your flight. This means you probably don’t need to pay for supertough materials if you don’t want to since it won’t be thrown around or battered by luggage handlers. But you do want something quality that will last.

You need to carefully consider the weight of the luggage you choose to use on board. Since you only have up to 40 pounds to play with, lightweight but durable nylon bags or similar are usually the most practical option.

There are thousands of small cases, bags, and even rucksacks that are designed to meet the size and weight restrictions of most major airlines, so finding one should be a cinch.

Carry-on Backpack vs. Carry-on Suitcase

As the battle between backpack and suitcase rages on, travelers usually come to a conclusion based on their individual travel needs. While a cabin bag usually comes with wheels and is easy to pull around the airport, they can have limited access and may hold less than their counterparts.

Backpacks need to be carried at all times, but do offer plenty of hidden compartments for handy travel accessories — and using one will keep your hands free while you fumble for your tickets at check-in.

Which is best? Both work well, and your choice should be based on your own personal preference .

Hot Tip: Need some tips on packing your carry-on? Check out our carry-on travel essentials  for short and long flights!

Wheeled cabin luggage is perfectly designed to let you pull it around the airport — when the wheels are good, that is! Complete with pull-up handles and different types of wheel options, these types of cases are now the go-to accessory for savvy travelers around the world.

Standard 2-wheeled versions are perfect for pulling behind you or pushing in front when you have to. They are practical and affordable.

If you want something that offers even more maneuverability, opt for spinner wheels that allow you to wheel your case sideways next to you as well. Spinner wheels are much more practical when it comes to pushing your case down a busy airplane where space is limited.

Either way, quality counts . Pay bargain prices and you can expect a wheel to pop off here or there or a broken handle that will render it useless halfway through your trip.

If you are pulling, pushing, or even carrying your luggage, you want to be sure the handle will withstand the journey . Cases often come with collapsible, extendable handles that stow away in the body of the case when not being used.

Backpacks, on the other hand, need handles that are strong and durable but are also easily flexible when it comes to storing your luggage in the locker.

Much like wheels, quality is key. A badly built extendable handle may snap or come out of its housing, while a backpack or bag with inferior handles can break and leave you cradling it like a baby.

Hard or Soft Luggage

This is another decision that should be based on personal choice. Legend has it that hard-shell luggage is more durable than softer cases, but in reality, this is not always so.

While hard cases do offer some extra protection, they can be heavier, and space may be compromised by the design of the shell. Soft suitcases are more flexible in terms of shape and generally lighter. That said, they could also be more prone to splits or tears.

Guess what we’re going to say next? Yep — whatever you choose, quality is key ! Pay for well-manufactured, lightweight hard-shell cases or strong nylon soft cases to ensure your cabin luggage lasts you for more than 1 journey.

Laptop Compartment

If you’re taking your work with you, you need to ensure that your laptop is well-protected while you fly.

Carrying laptops on board has its own intricacies, and you’ll usually need easy access to remove the laptop for airport security . After that, you need practical, secure storage for the duration of the journey.

Some cabin cases are designed with laptop users in mind and have their own laptop compartments fully padded for extra protection. Other travelers choose to take a separate laptop bag with them, but you would need to check with your carrier to see if this is allowed within your onboard baggage limitations.

Smart Luggage

These days, everything is getting “smarter” — from our phones to our homes, and now even our luggage. Smart luggage offers fancy extras like power banks to charge your devices, electronic baggage tags, GPS tracking, and TSA-approved locks.

Bags like this may cost more than regular luggage, but they’re totally revolutionizing the way we travel. Locate lost luggage, charge your devices, and keep your belongings safe from theft or damage as you go.

These additional functions are priceless for anyone who wants to enjoy fuss-free travel in the digital age.

Airline Rules for Smart Luggage

Turns out some things really are too good to be true! While smart luggage may seem like the perfect solution for connectivity problems of the modern-day traveler, it appears that it’s also causing major problems for the airlines.

The lithium-ion batteries found in these cases aren’t allowed in the cargo hold, and uninstalled ones can only be held by the passenger in the cabin during transit.

In an effort to combat potential fires and explosions as a result of lithium-ion batteries, no smart bags are allowed to be checked at all , and they can only be carried in the cabin if the battery is removable. Airlines who have already implemented policies like this including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines.

It’s likely that many more will also follow suit, so please check with your airline before flying with smart luggage .

Best Carry-On Luggage Cases With Hard Shells

• Samsonite Omni Hardside Spinner 20

Weight: 6.8 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 22.0 x 15.0 x 9.5 Inches

Made by one of the biggest names in luxury luggage, the Samsonite Omni Hardside Spinner is a beautiful piece of engineered luggage. Lightweight and effortlessly mobile , the 100% polycarbonate design is easy to move, offers plenty of internal space, and looks like business.

The micro-diamond texture is extremely scratch-resistant, which is important if you’re planning to use the case on multiple journeys. Inside the suitcase are interior dividers to help keep your belongings organized, as well as cross straps for flattening your clothes.

For added security, there is a side-mounted TSA-compliant lock. The free-spinning wheels are the major selling point of this individual case, and allow you to pull the case behind you or along next to your side.

Hard-wearing, good-looking, and incredibly practical, this Samsonite case is designed to match the size and weight allowances of most U.S. airlines. If you are looking for a case that will fit enough clothes and toiletries for a week away without checking your luggage, this little beauty could be the one for you.

What We Like

• Side-mounted TSA lock for security

What We Don’t Like

• In the unlikely event of a fault, the buyer pays shipping to return the item

Delsey Luggage Chatelet Spinner

Weight: 7.7 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 22 x 15 x 10 inches

If you want to fit in with the jet set but aren’t quite in the market for a full set of Louis Vuittons, this little beauty is stylish, practical, and a firm favorite with those in the know.

Elegant and innovative, this case is a real looker and comes in a variety of different colors. Clean curves and soft leather trim mean it wouldn’t look out of place in the most luxurious of destinations, while the polycarbonate construction is built to last. Designed to be seen, it can withstand extreme temperatures and will survive the general scuffs you can expect to receive.

The nearly silent spinner wheels assure smooth maneuverability and are a real talking point. Finally, the luxurious red interior is like a Louboutin for your belongings, and the zippered compartments keep your garments safely secured while you travel.

• Stylish design without exorbitant price
• Marks are easier to see on a light-colored bag

Delsey Paris Helium Aero 21″ Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels

Weight: 7.98 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 20.5 x 14.5 x 10 inches

The Paris Helium Aero case is made from 100% impact-resistant polycarbonate, ensuring that it’s strong enough to withstand the bumps and dings of airline travel while still offering plenty of class and style.

At 8 pounds, this may not be the lightest carry-on case on the market, but it is close and arguably one of the best looking. Stylish and sleek, the double spinner wheels add to its allure as the case glides effortlessly around the airport. 

On the inside, 2 full-size packing compartments provide plenty of space for all your travel essentials, and the tie-down straps will prevent your neatly packed items from moving around in transit. No matter how full your case, you will still be able to comfortably carry it when you need to thanks to the soft-touch top and side carry handles. 

Because Delsey understands just how much you love your luggage, this case also features integrated, TSA-approved locks, allowing agents easy access to your belongings without the worry of them causing any damage. 

• Lots of pockets and compartments for storage
• Zippers can sometimes break with heavy use

AmazonBasics Geometric Hardside Spinner Cabin Case

Weight: 6.77 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 15 x 10 x 21.7 inches

Basic by name, but not necessarily basic by nature, this little case from Amazon is great for budget-conscious travelers . The 21.7-inch hardshell case is perfect for shorter trips and will easily stow all your belongings safely while you travel.

Made with a scratch-resistant finish to protect against over-eager cab drivers or baggage handlers, the extra thick ABS shell is on par with many of its more expensive competitors and adds enhanced strength and durability.

Inside, the case is lined with 3 zippered pockets for storing all those important bits and pieces you need to bring along. Packing is a breeze with this expandable case — a useful extra 15% capacity means you can throw in that extra sweater or pair of shoes with ease.

The 4 double spinner wheels make this case easy to maneuver with 1 hand, leaving the other free for important tasks like child-wrangling or retrieving your tickets and passport while you walk.

With a telescopic handle and an additional securely mounted short handle, you can drag, roll, or carry this case through airports and foreign lands the world over.

• Supersmooth double spinner wheels
• Nowhere to store the zippers for protection

Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 20″ Hardside 4-Wheel Spinner

Weight: 6.25 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  21.75 x 14.5 x 8.5 inches

This case offers tons of useful features for an insanely low price. For ease of mobility, the Reaction case can literally turn on a dime — the multi-directional 4-wheel spinners allow for smooth, 360-degree movement over virtually any surface.

Being exceptionally lightweight makes it even easier to move around, and you can fill it to the brim with your belongings without having to worry too much about your weight allowance when you board. Garment straps are useful to hold your clothes in place and prevent too much creasing.

If you’re into the aesthetic charms of carry-on luggage, this one is sure to please, with molded corners, an ergonomic handle, an attractive shine, and a scratch-free ABD hard-shell cover that looks great and is highly durable. The case is also available in 11 different colors , so you are sure to find something that suits your tastes.

Internally, there are additional zippered compartments that make light work of keeping your valuables and smaller items safe while you travel. All in all, this is a great little case that won’t cost a fortune. Kenneth Cole also offers a 10-year limited warranty with this case for your peace of mind.

• Molded corner guards to protect from impact
• Warranty only covers manufacturing defects, not general wear and tear

BAGSMART Carry On Luggage

Weight: 6.39 pounds

Overall Dimensions : 21.7 x 14 x 8.7 inches

BAGSMART designs great-value luggage that performs well and looks awesome. This case is no exception, offering a lightweight, unbreakable shell that you can fill up for your next adventure.

Made from 100% polycarbonate, the case is ultra-durable, really lightweight, and incredibly easy to maneuver. It is also strong enough to withstand being thrown around during transit since the shell can absorb most knocks, eliminating nasty dents and scratches.

Designed for the organized traveler, the internal space is practical and well-thought-out . There are 2 main compartments, a zippered mesh compression divider, and an interior pocket for smaller items. These partitioned compartments keep everything neat and tidy.

When you’re packed up and ready to go, the multi-directional wheels make quick work of airport terminals — and have been tested on bumpy terrain such as gravel.

Complete with a TSA-approved lock that is set using a combination code, you should be able to pretty much guarantee your belongings will stay safe wherever you’re headed.

• Well-organized interior with a compression divider and internal pockets
• Doesn’t expand for more storage space

Hot Tip:  For more lightweight options, check out our separate review dedicated to the best lightweight carry-on luggage . 

• Samsonite Freeform Spinner Cabin Case

Weight: 6.5 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 23 x 15 x 10 inches

Samsonite is one of the biggest names in luggage, and every case it sells is designed to be lightweight, extremely durable, and a good-looking addition to any traveler’s collection.

This particular model has been created to offer the strength you would expect from a hard-shell case, with the lightweight maneuverability you’d expect from a roller skate (honestly, it handles that well!).

Spacious interiors make light work of clothing and belongings to last a few days away, while the cross straps and divider are perfect for keeping your clothing tightly pressed and uncreased during transit.

The double wheels are perfect for pulling along behind you or keeping close by your side, and the Samsonite TSA 3-dial lock will prevent unwanted opening by anyone other than TSA agents.

This case is also expandable to a degree so you can pack that extra heavy sweater, and the built-in ID tag makes it easily identifiable as it swings past you on the luggage carousel.

The Freeform is designed with the discerning traveler in mind. The price tag may be a little higher than some of the lesser-known models out there, but you’re paying for a superb case built to last by a world leader in the luggage market.

• Built-in ID tag for quick identification
• Shows scratches easily

Trek Aluminium Suitcase

Hot Tip: Use special promo code UP10 for 10% off!

Weight: 9.6 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 8.7 inches

Chic and stylish, this hardshell carry-on case is designed to offer maximum luggage capacity, while still meeting the size restrictions for overhead lockers on most domestic and international airplanes.

With its unbreakable aluminum-magnesium alloy shell , the Trek carry-on case oozes sophistication and good looks, making it perfect for both business travelers and leisure trips alike. The unique zipper-less closure is easy to open while remaining incredibly secure, and the dual TSA-approved combination locks mean the case can be accessed easily by security agents should they need to.

The super spacious, fully-lined interior offers over 34 liters of space in both halves to carry everything you need for your next trip. The pocketed panels will keep your liquids and clear bag secure in transit.

It’s not just the rugged good looks, and clever design touches that make this such an excellent choice for carry-on passengers, the way in which it moves is a revelation, too. Forget about wonky wheels and flimsy handles, this beauty comes complete with ultra-smooth 360-degree spinner wheels and an aluminum telescoping handle that makes it an absolute delight to wheel around the airport.

Refined, sophisticated, and built to last, this is the perfect carry-on case for frequent flyers.

• Zipless closure and hard-shell for tamper protection
• Might be out of budget for many travelers

COOLIFE Suitcase With Front Compartment

Weight: 7.87 pounds

Overall Dimensions : 14.5 x 9 x 21 inches

With a front opening compartment complete with a padded laptop pocket and other small storage, this suitcase is designed for those who need instant access to their devices, documents, and other items while they travel.

Grab your passport, wallet, phone, tablet, or laptop with the flick of a zipper , leaving your pockets empty and your hands free. Great for business travelers or those who need to take a lot of tech with them, you can breeze through security without having to unpack your entire bag just to get your devices out.

The main compartment is also pretty impressive with plenty of space for your clothes, and each compartment is held in place by cross straps and an organization divider to stop your belongings from rolling around during transit.

Both the main and front compartments can be locked using the double TSA combination lock, so you can rest easy knowing your items are secure when unattended in the overhead lockers.

Made from ABS and polycarbonate, this suitcase is lightweight to maneuver on the 360-degree spinner wheels. With a durable structure, this sleek and futuristic-looking case has a particularly impressive look.

This is a great case for those who want to be able to access their items at a moment’s notice.

• Front pocket and double TSA lock
• Tech compartment eats into the main compartment space quite a bit when full

Best Carry-On Luggage Cases With Soft-shells

SwissGear Travel Gear 6283 Spinner Luggage

Weight: 8 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 22.75 x 14.25 x 10.25 inches

Soft and light yet somehow strong and dependable, the SwissGear Travel Gear 6283 is a good choice for those who like soft-shelled cabin luggage.

Every aspect of this case has been designed with longevity in mind. This is a case that’s built to last and offers tons of features to help it withstand the rough and tumble of long-distance travel.

Made from durable, scuff-resistant polyester, the case is lightweight and can expand to offer extra packing space when needed. It also has some nice extra features like a zippered wet bag for keeping dirty clothes separate from the clean stuff.

It is also easy to maneuver with a telescoping locking push/pull handle system and 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels that will glide effortlessly across most types of terrain.

With easy-to-access front pockets (that you won’t find on most hard-shell cases) and a built-in ID tag, this is one case that you can literally buy, fill, and carry on!

• Comes with a removable zippered wet bag
• Can tip over easily due to lightweight wheels

Travelpro Platinum Magna Expandable Spinner Suitcase

Weight: 7.7 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9 inches

No one wants to be traveling and find their cell phone has run out of charge. This Travelpro suitcase comes with a built-in USB port and power bank pocket , so you can charge up on the move.

As with all the best cabin luggage, this suitcase is lightweight, sturdy, and conforms with the height and weight restrictions in place on most U.S. airlines. It’s not just on the plane where this case excels though — the super-smooth rollaboard wheels and PowerScope extendable handle ensure that this case is easy to pull along, no matter how far the journey.

On the inside, your clothes can remain wrinkle-free during travel as you lay them neatly inside the suiter compartment. The engineered zipper is also designed to withstand the constant opening and closing of your case while you find the perfect outfit for your vacation.

Another plus for this particular bag is its extremely lightweight design, meaning you can pack more belongings without worrying about having to check your luggage. Overpacked? Not to worry — this case also comes with expandable capability to increase the internal storage area.

Complete with a worry-free lifetime warranty , this is a great little case for your next adventure from a brand that makes quality products.

• No loss of internal space with rollaboard wheels
• The built-in suiter is a little narrow

Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Expandable Cabin Case

Weight: 9 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  14 x 9 x 22 inches

Briggs & Riley has been committed to supplying American globetrotters with luxury luggage for over a quarter of a century; this cabin case is another example of the company’s very fine work.

A top pick with frequent flyers and airline staff, the Baseline expandable case has its very own neat trick that allows it to offer a whopping 25% more packing space when needed . The case then manages to compress back down to fit perfectly in the overhead storage lockers of most U.S. domestic airlines.

With a state-of-the-art hybrid fiberglass frame, the case remains lightweight and easy to maneuver while still being incredibly durable. Made from super-strong ballistic nylon, the outer fabric is hard-wearing and water-resistant.

The aluminum handle system offers a super comfortable ergonomic handle, and the freewheeling system makes this case a dream to move around even the busiest of airports.

• Exterior telescopic handle with no compromise on internal space
• Not as much freedom pushing and pulling compared to spinner wheels

Travelpro Luggage Maxlite 5 22 Inch Expandable Rollaboard

Weight: 5.4 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 22 x 14.5 x 9 inches

The Travelpro Luggage Maxlite 5 is one of the lightest cabin bags ever made, meaning you can bring even more of your wardrobe when you travel. With lots of innovative features, this little beauty is made from tough, durable polyester that looks and works perfectly.

This case’s most fascinating feature is the patented Rollaboard that places a frame several inches from the bottom, allowing the designers to do away with heavy and bulky reinforcing frames found in similar cases. This means less weight and more space for you !

Exterior pockets are spacious enough to safely store a laptop, while the full-size inner compartment is large enough to keep even the crispest of suits wrinkle-free. If you want to squeeze even more in there, the case can expand to give you more room — but you could quickly exceed the maximum size restrictions for your airline carrier .

The modern design is also pretty impressive. Despite its somewhat surprising dimensions, this looks pretty sleek for a softshell case, and the smooth gliding wheels and ergonomic handle make it a good choice for most travelers.

• Super light, so you can get more from your carry-on allowance
• Tips forward easily

Best Carry-On Backpacks

Osprey Farpoint Travel Backpack

Weight: 3.5 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  22 x 14 x 9 inches

Osprey is world-famous for their awesome backpacks, and this one is as good as any in the range. In fact, this one comes in 2 different options for men and women. The Farpoint and the Fairview offer practical solutions for those looking for a cabin-sized rucksack that can be used for your onward journeys, too.

If you like to sling your belongings on your back, both the Farpoint and the Fairview are made from super-tough ripstop nylon and feature slash-proof straps, tons of useful compartments, and a harness and hip belt for ease of wear during longer excursions.

Both have a discreet laptop and tablet sleeve that will keep your tech protected while you travel. Easy to access, lightweight, and big enough to handle a good amount of belongings while still being cabin-sized, these backpacks are just about the perfect alternative to cabin-sized suitcases.

Osprey backpacks also come in a wide range of colors (and bigger sizes, too), so if you want to coordinate your checked luggage, you should be able to find a size and style that matches.

• Comfortable harness and hip belt for comfortable wear
• No frame to stand up straight vertically

Asenlin 40 Liter Travel Backpack

Weight: 2.7 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.2 x 9.45 inches

Whether you’re jetting off on vacation or a business trip, this backpack is versatile, attractive, and perfect for travelers who prefer to carry the world on their back instead of pulling it along on wheels.

Weighing in at 2.7 pounds, you can maximize your hand luggage allowance by filling up your bag with as many belongings as you need while still meeting the size restrictions for overhead bins.

Offering an impressive 40-liter interior, you can pull the compression straps tight to keep the pack easy to carry. Stay organized on the go by stashing your belongings into the convenient packing cubes that come in 3 different sizes .

To increase the comfort, the designers added well-padded and adjustable shoulder and sternum straps that can be zipped away to check your backpack or to easily attach to the handle of your suitcase.

With a front organizer pocket to quickly access your tickets, passport, and other accessories and a separate padded compartment for a 17.3-inch laptop, you’ll breeze through security in a matter of minutes.

• Includes 3 packing cubes to stay organized
• The laptop compartment makes the backpack front heavy

Hynes Eagle Flight Approved 40L Backpack

Weight : 2.53 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  20.1 x 13.4 x 9.8 inches

Hynes Eagle bags suggest that you’re a traveler who knows a bit about the world — and that you certainly know which kind of bag best suits your needs. Their cabin-approved backpacks are just the right size and offer tons of interior space while retaining modern silhouettes and a certain minimalist chic.

Made from water-repellent polyester, this is one of the hippest of all cabin rucksacks… and should probably be accessorized with a chai latte (and maybe even a beard).

Trendsetting aside, everyone should be impressed by the multiple interior slip pockets — one of which fits a 15.6-inch laptop with ease. Externally, there is a front zip pocket that enables easy access to your passport, money, phone, and frequent flyer cards.

Designed with ergonomics in mind, there is an adjustable sternum strap for added stability, as well as multiple exterior compression buckle straps for adjusting the height based on your own individual needs.

This is a true hands-free carry-on bag that won’t limit your mobility, while still being able to stow plenty during your travels.

• Convenient interior slip pockets for your passport, money, and gadgets
• No waist belt to help distribute the weight

The ability to travel without having to check bags makes your check-in faster and negates the need for lengthy waits at baggage claim.

Although you may need to do your research before you invest in the right cabin luggage for your needs, finding a small case that is easily maneuverable, lightweight, and able to hold everything you need for a few days away is really a game-changer when it comes to domestic and international air travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a backpack considered a personal item or carry-on.

The size of the backpack and the individual airlines rules will determine whether a backpack is a personal item or carry-on. As a rough guide, if the backpack is handbag-sized and comfortably fits under the seat in front of you, it would usually be classed as a personal item. Please check with your airline for their exact requirements.

What is considered carry-on luggage?

Each airline will have different carry-on luggage size requirements but carry-on luggage is usually determined by its dimensions. As a rough guide many airlines consider carry-on luggage to be no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches. This will vary, so please check with the airline you are flying with.

What is the best carry-on bag for travel?

Cabin bags have revolutionized the way we travel. With airlines charging extra fees for checked luggage, more and more of us are cramming our belongings into little carry-on bags. These are some of our tops picks:

• Chester Lightweight Polycarbonate Spinner Case
• Delsey Paris Helium Aero 21″ Hardside Luggage
• Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 20″ Hardside

What bags are suitable for hand luggage?

As the battle between backpack and suitcase rages on, travelers usually come to a conclusion based on their individual travel needs. While a cabin bag usually comes with wheels and is easy to pull around the airport, they can have limited access and may hold less than their counterparts. Backpacks need to be carried at all times, but do offer plenty of hidden compartments for handy travel accessories — and using one will keep your hands free while you fumble for your tickets at check-in.

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Veranda editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The 12 Best Luxury Luggage Brands for International Travel, According to Pros

Don’t splurge on a suitcase until you’ve read this expert shopping advice.

"Sturdiness is the most important quality for long, international travel because a dense suitcase will ensure that it comes off the scanning belt without major damage," Marchant says. "Durability and a lifetime warranty are also important because you never know what can happen while traveling, who is handling your bag, or what kind of weather it has to wheel through. In the unpredictable realm of international travel, a sturdy and resilient suitcase is a traveler’s best friend."

Here, the best pieces of luggage for international travel, straight from the pros.

Paravel Weekender

Paravel is one of Schroeder’s go-to brands for personal luggage due to its quality craftsmanship, stylish aesthetic, and still-attainable price point. The Weekender is a favorite piece (Schroder calls it her “ Mary Poppins bag”), as it easily slides over the handle of any suitcase for streamlining speedy layovers.

Rimowa Original Cabin Carry-on Bag

"Large, heavy suitcases are popular because they offer more packing space, but they are cumbersome to bring around the airport and may result in additional fees when checking in," Marchant says. "I recommend travelers prioritize finding a balance between capacity and portability and ensure that their luggage is both functional and practical."

A favorite of Marchant’s (and many seasoned travel pros, for that matter), Rimowa’s aluminum suitcases are all about longevity, while boasting one of the most iconic luggage designs of the modern day. “The best quality luggage is Rimowa, without hesitation, because of its durability, capacity, design, and style,” she says. “The suitcases are an investment, but a guaranteed piece for life,” he says.

Globe Trotter Safari XL Trunk

This heritage British luggage brand was founded in 1897 and truly offers something for everyone, whether you’re a watch collector or particular enough to seek out fully customizable luggage (or both!). Globe Trotter boasts a host of unique collections, from the eternally chic safari line to collabs with luxury accessories brand Casablanca and James Bond.

The brand’s items are made from vulcanized fiberboard, which boasts being as strong as leather yet light as aluminum for seamless travel. Plus, old-school jet-setters will love Globe Trotter’s chic trunks that are suited for your next Grand Tour.

Carl Friedrik Palissy Weekend

If you’re looking for a bag that can go from office to plane to drinks and back again, look no further than Carl Friedrik's weekender bag. This heritage luggage brand focuses on premium materials, thoughtful design to improve functionality and reduce waste, and innovation that will have you hooked for life. The brand is also a go-to destination for travel accessories made from vegetable-tanned vachetta leather that will patina beautifully over the years.

AWAY The Bigger Carry-On

This Instagram-adored brand is also a personal favorite of Schroder’s, as the brand’s Bigger Carry On is her-go to when jet-setting for a variety of trips. This top-rated luggage retailer is beloved for cleverly designed products with unique features such as laundry bags, underside grab handles, lightweight yet durable shells, and array of color options for every type of aesthete.

“In my opinion, the products are well-made and available at a price point that balances both luxury and accessibility,” says Schroeder. “Most of my clients appreciate this, as they are looking for both functionality and a level of style in their luggage.”

Bric's Bellagio Pocket Spinner Trunk

The celeb-adored Italian luggage brand features a range of leather goods that appeal to a variety of styles, whether you prefer vintage-inspired designs, sleek lines, or punchy colorways. Bric’s is all about showcasing Italian craftsmanship and design innovation, from the Tuscan leather trim on the Firenze bags to the steamer trunk-inspired design of the Bellagio collection and seaside hues of the Positano collection.

Bric’s offers a five-year warranty on all wheeled products and a two-year warranty on other bags and accessories. Warning: You'll be scheming up your next trip to Italy as soon as your purchase arrives.

Hartmann Tweed Legend Medium Journey

Iconic luggage brand Hartmann first gained notoriety in 1908 with its namesake trunk winning first prize at the California exposition. It’s been serving discerning travelers ever since (think: James Bond in Ian Flemming’s novels, as well as IRL with Halston and Gloria Vanderbilt).

Schroeder is fan of both their carry-on and checked luggage options that feature American-made vegetable-tanned leather, signature tweed, and other high-performance materials to travel as far and wide as you do for decades to come. It’s a top pick for those who love soft luggage without having to sacrifice on durability or style.

Monos Check-In Large

Monos has quickly become a must-have brand for the jet-set needing Instagram-worthy luggage. But the brand is much more than a pretty face (though we do love the number of colorways offered): Monos luggage has received more than 10,000 five-star reviews and is centered around creating timeless modern heirlooms you'll treasure for years to come.

They back that up with lifetime warranties on all luggage, even if purchased from an authorized third-party retailer, along with two-year warranties for the Metro collection and packing cubes. Plus, adults and kids alike will love the stylish alphabet stickers for personalizing suitcases and more.

TUMI Extended Trip Expandable 4-Wheeled Packing Case

“My husband has all things TUMI, which is a brand we often recommend to our clients,” Schroder says.

The comprehensive travel brand is a great pick for enthusiasts of all kinds, as the brand’s portfolio ranges from suitcases in six different sizes, active backpacks, and even a host of golf accessories (the brand just became the official luggage of the PGA Tour and LPGA). This also makes TUMI an excellent option for those who are seeking a full matching set of travel goodies, as Marchant says he swears by matching family sets of luggage to help keep track of everyone’s belongings as best as possible.

The brand features a slew of valuable amenities, from the TUMI Tracer product recovery program to repair and personalization services, as well a five-year-luggage warranty (two for wallets and accessories). Plus, there are more than 300 TUMI stores around the world to test out their suite of products in person with ease.

Royce & Rocket

The youngest brand on our list, Royce & Rocket was created by two well-traveled friends in 2022 who were looking to make packing (and unpacking upon arrival) as smooth as possible, allowing people to make the most of their vacations. Their suitcases, offered in three sizes feature built-in shelving systems (in chic colors, might we add) to help you stay organized with ease, no matter how much city-hopping is on your itinerary. Don’t miss out on the brand’s catchall travel pouches for keeping your suitcase mess-free and your beauty routine a breeze while abroad.

Delsey TURENNE Medium Trunk Spinner

Since 1946, Delsey has been bridging the gap between luxury and accessibility in the luggage market. No matter what kind of traveler you are or style of luggage you prefer, the brand has something well-designed, eco-friendly, and innovative to offer. The brand created the first luggage on wheels, after all! Delsey features an authorized repair center to ensure proper upkeep for those who travel hard. The brand is available for purchase through many major retailers around the world, so it’s a great pick if you prefer to shop IRL.

BÉIS The Convertible Mini Weekender

Schroder loves BÉIS for its lightweight carryon options that can keep you organized, no matter the itinerary. This is a great brand to know for families looking for chic, kid-friendly travel gear, hard-working totes, and clever carry ons in a slew of appealing colors.

“I own the Weekender and the Backpack, and I use both on different trips, depending on the type,” she says. “For example, when traveling to Africa, the Backpack helps to keep me most organized. When traveling to Europe and I need something to hold what doesn’t fit in my carry on, the Weekender is my go-to!"

Meet the Experts

Emma Schroder is a luxury travel advisor and founder of Major Traveler .

Tom Marchant is the co-founder and owner of Black Tomato .

Why Trust VERANDA

For more than 35 years, VERANDA has been the authority on extraordinary design, outdoor living, art and craft, entertaining, travel, and culture. Every product we feature is expertly curated by our discerning editors and industry experts. Through market research, experience, and rigorous product testing, we only give our stamp of approval to the very best. (edited)

Lauren Wicks is a freelance writer and editor based in Birmingham, Alabama. Before going on her own, Lauren worked for brands such as VERANDA, EatingWell, and Cooking Light , and she covers all things lifestyle from interior design and luxury travel to wine and wellness.

The Best Floor Lamps for Every Space

The 17 Best Floral Perfumes to Spritz This Spring

The 8 Best Outdoor String Lights

The 6 Best Outdoor Dining Sets Money Can Buy

The 11 Best Outdoor Rugs for Every Style

13 Best Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

8 Egyptian Cotton Sheets Worth Splurging On

41 Fabulous Mother's Day Gift Ideas

11 Chic Pool Towels That Are Perfect for Summer

50 Meaningful Gifts for Mother-in-Laws

29 Father's Day Gift Ideas Dad Will Actually Love

The Best Carry-On Luggage in 2024 (Hands-On Reviews)

This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase through these links. See our full disclosure here .

The best carry-on luggage is the one that fits your travel needs. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Of course, the overabundance of options currently on the market doesn’t help, but we are here to guide you through the maze of choices.

This past year, for instance, we’ve been busy testing our way through a mountain of old and new suitcases, backpacks, and duffels, trying to find the best carry-on luggage to buy in 2024. After evaluating over 40 pieces based on a combination of style, performance, and functionality, we’ve narrowed it down to a select few that stand out from the crowd.

Before we dive in, it’s important to consider your travel style. Are you a frequent flyer? Opt for a well-built rolling suitcase that can withstand rough handling and protect your belongings in style. Traveling for business? A professionally looking carry-on that maximizes space and keeps your belongings neatly organized is a must. More of a spontaneous explorer? Perhaps a do-anything duffel or a durable backpack full of innovative features is more your style.

Once you have a clear idea of your needs, find your match in our curated list of top-rated cabin suitcases, backpacks, and duffels. From stylish spinners to versatile soft-sided bags, these are the best carry-on luggage pieces available today, tested and reviewed by the Travel Away team.

Best Overall: Monos Carry-On Pro

Best Softside: Nomatic Navigator Carry-On 37L

Best Aluminum: MVST Trek

Best Large: Béis The Carry-On Roller

Best for Business Travel: Carl Friedrik The Carry-On X

Best Carry-On Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L

Best International: Horizn Studios M5

Best Organization: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Large

Best Style: Bric’s Bellagio 2.0 21” Carry-On Spinner Trunk

Best Lightweight: Bellroy Lite Duffel

Best Carry-On Luggage in 2024: Monos Carry-On Pro

• Best feature: The front pocket
• Dimensions: 22″ × 14″ × 9″ (55.8cm x 35.5cm x 22.8cm)
• Material: Aerospace-grade German polycarbonate
• Weight: 7.8 lbs (3.53 kg)
• Volume: 36 L

The Monos Carry-On Pro is one of the best cabin suitcases we’ve tried. I’ve taken it with me on pretty much every trip since I’ve had it, either as my sole carrier for short city breaks throughout Europe or as an added carry-on bag on longer vacations. It has become a permanent fixture on my travels and the one to which I always compare other bags in the same category. And speaking of comparison, apparently, Monos vs Away is a thing.

In my experience using both brands for years, Vancouver-based luggage manufacturer Monos is far superior in nearly all departments. While their hardshell polycarbonate suitcases – in this case, the pocketed carry-ons – share many similar features, the Monos Carry-On Pro rolls smoother, feels sturdier, looks sleeker, and offers smarter storage than its competitor.

My favorite feature is the built-in front compartment, which, unlike that of its competitors, is made from the same durable polycarbonate as the rest of the bag’s exterior and comes in very handy for protecting, organizing, and quickly accessing my laptop, phone, and documents on the go.

The suitcase’s build quality is beautiful, as is the simple, minimalist aesthetic, and the 360° Hinomoto wheels perform like a dream on a variety of surfaces. The interior is one of the best I’ve ever packed my clothes in, featuring various compartments and extra anti-microbial bags for organizing all my stuff, plus an effective compression system that allowed me to fit four days’ worth of summer essentials easily.

I have the Carry-On Pro in matte white, and not only are scuffs less noticeable than on darker colorways, but the bag looks great, pairs with most outfits, and is easy to clean (most marks will miraculously come off with the provided eraser).

I find Monos’ attention to detail a notch or two above the competition – the YKK zippers are color-coordinated to match the bag’s exterior; the interior is wrapped in a luxurious, waterproof fabric that’s also anti-microbial, and the telescopic handle is constructed from high-grade aluminum and features an underneath release button for a more ergonomic experience. While these small details may not seem like a big deal, for me, they do make every trip feel like first class.

what we like

• Thoughtful internal organization
• Great heavy-duty handle
• Chic, minimalist look
• Top-quality materials throughout

what we don’t

• Will not fit in all overhead bins
• According to several internet reviews, darker shades are more likely to show scuffs

Best Softside Carry-On Luggage: Nomatic Navigator Carry-On 37L

• Best feature: Its stellar organizational capabilities
• Material: 100% Makrolon polycarbonate shell + durable, water-resistant fabric
• Weight: 7.8 lbs (3,5 kg)
• Volume: 37 L Standard | 45 L Expanded

Upon unboxing the Nomatic Navigator Carry-On , the first thing that stood out was its sleek appearance. It is one of the few bags that looks much better in person than in the photos, and the quality is beautiful. From the water-resistant YKK zippers to the smooth-rolling oversized wheels, everything feels premium and works lovely. The aluminum handle is more durable than many suitcases, and the four exterior grab handles are a well-thought-out addition.

I haven’t tested out its water resistance yet (there are more than 300 sunny days per year where I live), but the outer fabric seems extremely durable, and I love how it firmly wraps around the frame for a clean, streamlined look.

Aesthetics aside, the bag was built with function in mind. This becomes immediately clear as soon as you unzip the main compartment, which splits wide open for easy packing, but it’s intentionally divided into two unequal halves.

The bigger side has room for shoes and most of your clothes and comes with crossed straps to keep them more compact.

The smaller one, lined with zippered pockets, is perfect for accessories and lighter items like t-shirts, summer dresses, and undergarments. This section is approximately half the size of the other, but that’s only because the other half is occupied by the carry-on’s unique tech compartment. Now, this is where things really start to get interesting. Accessible from the front, not only is this 16.5″ x 12.5″ front area padded, but it holds a 17″ laptop and comes with practical pockets for documents and accessories like tablets, cords, cables, and external batteries.

• Streamlined, professional appearance
• Built to last
• RFID-safe pocket
• The expansion feature increases the capacity to 45 liters by unzipping it
• Protective ABS honeycomb interior panel
• Reflective bars for nighttime visibility
• While beautiful, the black exterior fabric shows dust and dirt easily (a lint roller will do the trick, though)
• Although I haven’t found this to be a problem, it’s a two-wheel suitcase, which means you’ll have to drag it behind you rather than roll it next to you
• It’s only available in black

Best Aluminum Carry-On Luggage: MVST Trek Aluminum Suitcase

• Best feature: The unbreakable aluminum shell
• Dimensions: 21.7″ x 14.8″ x 8.7″ (55.1cm × 37.5cm × 22cm)
• Material: Aerospace-grade aluminum magnesium alloy
• Weight: 9.6 lbs (4.3 kg)
• Volume: 34 L

Here at Travel Away, we’ve tested our fair share of aluminum luggage over the years. While there are many wonderful options out there, we feel the MVST Trek has just the right combo of price, style, and quality.

Fashioned from aviation-grade aluminum alloy, it’s an extremely rugged suitcase, and I just can’t stress enough how good it feels to have latches instead of zippers. This zipperless design not only protects your belongings better, but it’s a breeze to open and close and scores major points in the style department, too. And talking about style, the bag feels classic with a bold industrial edge. The shimmering textured shell makes a statement, especially in silver, and does really well to hide scuffs and scratches.

In terms of functionality, this carry-on has all the features you come to expect from premium suitcases, and more.

The spinner wheels are smooth and glide with ease across all types of terrain, and I appreciate that they are removable. That means you can easily clean or replace them in case of damage.

A solid telescoping aluminum handle and two slow-release handles (on top and side) add to the maneuverability of the suitcase.

While the 34-liter interior is on the smaller side, it makes up for it with a well-organized layout that includes compression straps and dividers, as well as dedicated compartments for keeping smaller items organized. It’s also lined with an anti-microbial fabric that prevents smells and bacteria.

In a nutshell, The MVST Trek Aluminum Suitcase offers the best bang for your buck in an aluminum carry-on. It’s solid, secure, and looks as badass as it should.

• Sleek, cool look
• Extremely durable
• The zipperless locking-latch design provides safety and easy access
• Unbeatable price for an aluminum carry-on
• Comes in more colors than any other metal suitcase out there
• Heavier than your polycarbonate suitcase
• It will inevitably earn scratches, dings, and dents over the years

Best Large Carry-On Luggage: Béis The Carry-On Roller

• Best feature: The cushioned handle
• Dimensions: 22.83″ × 15.75″ × 9.84″ (58cm × 40cm × 25cm)
• Material: 100% Virgin polycarbonate
• Weight: 8.36 lbs (3.79 kg)
• Volume: 49 L Standard | 61 L Expanded

I purchased the Béis Carry-On Roller in Beige a couple of months ago, and while I haven’t had the chance to take it on a flight yet, I did manage to test its functionality, weight, storage, and comfort indoors and on several trips around town, as well.

Featuring a matte polycarbonate body detailed with bold gradient stripes, color-coordinated zippers, and spinner Hinomoto wheels, this bag is both chic and durable. I wouldn’t say the quality is on par with the other (pricier) suitcases on this list, but it does have some cool bells and whistles that make it stand out – namely, a built-in weight-limit indicator that turns red if you’re over the 50-pound restriction, a retractable bag attach strap, a zippered expansion feature, and my favorite handle: with a soft cushioned handlebar for comfort.

With an almost 50-liter capacity (without expansion), the case is quite big. That is both a good and bad thing – good because you can really fit a lot of stuff inside, and bad because it might not be accepted as carry-on luggage by all airlines. This being said, the suitcase is perfect for overpackers or those headed on longer trips.

It also has an impressively well-organized interior where you’ll find multiple zippered pockets, a pair of compression straps, drawstring bags for dirty shoes and clothes, and a detachable divider. This makes packing and locating items a breeze. However, the zippers don’t seem as robust and don’t run as smoothly as I would have expected.

Even with some minor drawbacks, the Béis Carry-On Roller is a great piece of carry-on luggage with many clever features and good looks to match.

• Chic, durable exterior
• Generous capacity
• Lots of unique features
• Practical, well-organized interior
• Expands up to 2” for extra packing space
• Exceeds most European carry-on size limits
• The handle felt a little loose during our tests
• Interior zippers are not the greatest

Best Carry-On Luggage for Business Travel: Carl Friedrik The Carry-On X

• Best feature: The spacious, flexible front pocket
• Dimensions: 21.7″ × 15″ × 9.6/10.6″ (55cm x 38cm x 25/27cm)
• Material: Polycarbonate, vegetable-tanned Vachetta leather
• Weight: 9.5 lbs (4.3 kg)
• Volume: 43 L

While Carl Friedrik is better known for crafting quality, minimalist-looking leather products, their foray into the polycarbonate luggage world is equally compelling. We recently got the opportunity to test out the 43 L Carry-on X , and it definitely ticks all of the boxes.

Made from polycarbonate, with handmade Italian leather details and a strong aluminum frame, the suitcase feels solid, well-built, and high-end. The textured gunmetal exterior pairs beautifully with the cognac Vachetta leather and makes this roller catch the eye in a subtle, stylish way, with no ostentation whatsoever.

The hard-shell front pocket is a game changer, and it fits so much more than it looks like it can. Both the aluminum locking mechanism and silent Japanese wheels are a pleasure to use. The interior is simple, well-designed, and satisfyingly spacious, making it easier to travel carry-on only.

I love a product that I can trust, and that’s exactly what the Carl Friedrik Carry-On X is: an elegant, premium piece of luggage that can easily withstand the demands of frequent travel. Its sleek, understated styling, coupled with all those robust features, make it one of the best carry-on luggage to buy in 2024.

• Superb built quality
• Contemporary, heritage-inspired style
• The aluminum frame and locking mechanism are far superior to a zipper
• Lifetime warranty
• Free 100-day trial
• The telescopic handle feels a bit sub-par
• Heavier than others on the list
• The size might not be for everyone

• Best feature: The well-thought-out design
• Dimensions: Standard: 20.9″ × 13.4″ × 7″ (53cm × 34cm × 18cm) | Expanded: 20.9″ × 13.4″ × 7.9″ (53cm × 34cm × 20cm)
• Material: Weatherproof 100% recycled nylon canvas
• Weight: 3.17 lbs (1.44 kg)
• Volume: 27 L Standard | 33 L Expanded

As much as I love wheeled carry-ons, there are times when bringing them along just isn’t a good idea. Take our last trip to Lisbon for example – because our accommodation was right in the heart of the Alfama, and parking in the area is quite tricky, we had to walk with our luggage up several hills covered in uneven cobblestones. For these occasions and many others, nothing beats using a backpack as a carry-on.

My go-to pick is currently the Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L , a scaled-down version of their iconic 45L Travel Backpack, which we have used for a few years now and still consider it to be one the best backpacks out there , particularly for those who don’t mind toting around a larger model on their shoulders.

This one, on the other side, is the perfect size to fit everything I need for a 3-day trip without having to check any luggage. More than that, it’s a beautifully engineered piece of gear laden with innovative features – think stowable shoulder straps, a full clamshell opening for easy packing, and countless organizational pockets.

Over the last few months, I’ve used the pack as both a personal item and a cabin bag on low-cost airlines like Vueling and Ryanair. What’s really fascinating, however, is the fact that it also works great as an everyday carry for work, touring a new destination, and even photo shoots around town.

Though advertised as a 30L backpack, it actually expands from 27L to 33L to give you extra space when you need it and keep things minimal when you don’t.

Besides the clever, functional design and rugged construction, one of the things that make Peak Design backpacks stand out is the fantastic shoulder strap system, and this one is a joy to carry with its well-padded shoulder straps that swing around their rivets easily and stow away neatly under magnetic flaps.

Equally important for me is the 30L’s sleek, minimalist profile, without any visible zippers and loose straps dangling around, as well as the structured, cushioned sides that help protect my valuables when traveling.

All in all, the new 30L version is everything I want in a carry-on backpack – rugged, expandable, versatile, and very good-looking. I have the pack in Midnight, and while it looks really sleek, dirt and dust are more visible than on the lighter Sage fabric on the 45L, which, even after years of use, doesn’t show any wear and tear. Nevertheless, the exterior is generally easy to clean with a damp washcloth.

• Expands from daypack to carry-on bag
• Meets international carry-on size requirements
• Rugged construction
• Tons of organizational features keep your belongings organized and easily accessible
• Separate laptop/tablet compartment
• Multiple carry options
• Some of the best-designed shoulder straps of all the backpacks we’ve tried
• It only fits Peak Design camera cube when fully expanded
• Lacks the side and front access found on the 45L
• Black & Midnight fabrics show dust and dirt easier

Best Carry-On Luggage for International Travel: Horizn Studios M5

• Best feature: The removable power bank
• Dimensions: 21.6″ × 15.7″ × 9″ (55cm x 40cm x 23cm)
• Material: Signature aerospace-grade German polycarbonate, partially recycled
• Weight: 7.9 lbs (3.6 kg)
• Volume: 33 L

This is German engineering, and it shows. From the aesthetic to the choice of materials to the finishing touches, everything in the Horizn Studios M5 reflects the brand’s superior quality.

The shell is made with a blend of virgin and recycled polycarbonate, which means it’s durable but also lightweight, and is complimented by a water-resistant front pocket with room for a 15” laptop and then some. While this is not hard-sided, it is still very practical, providing enough protection (I’ve never had a problem in 3 years), and it also expands a bit, which is nice.

Just like the laptop compartment, the removable smart charger is a feature I never knew I needed, but now I’m fully embracing. Cabin-approved for all airlines and equipped with two USB-charging ports, the M5’s 10,000 mAh power bank has been a lifesaver on many occasions over the years. The shock-resistant 360° Japanese wheels and ergonomic telescoping handle combine to offer excellent maneuverability, and the TSA-approved combination lock keeps everything secure up in the air and beyond.

The interior is lined with a luxuriously soft, water-resistant nylon fabric in a coordinated color and includes a compression pad, strong, wide adjustable straps, and a zippered laundry bag, which can also come in handy for storing toiletries.

The M5 is my go-to carry-on case when flying budget airlines, and not because it doesn’t look first-class – it absolutely does! – but because it’s compact enough to fit in all overhead bins while still providing ample space for a few days’ worth of essentials.

Despite having traveled with this suitcase all across Europe, miraculously, there aren’t any scuffs or scratches. In fact, it is still in such good condition it sits proudly in a corner of my living room alongside its big brother, the H7.

• Glorious built quality
• Cool, contemporary design
• Smart design features
• Responsibly made
• The front laptop pocket is not as protective as a hard-side one

Best Carry-On Luggage for Organization: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Large

• Best feature: The removable shelving system
• Dimensions: 22.4″ × 14.6″ × 9.6″ (57cm × 37cm × 24cm)
• Material: Polycarbonate with aluminum frame
• Weight: 8.1 lbs / 9 lb with shelf (3.7 kg / 4.1 kg with shelf)
• Volume: 46 L

One of the things I dislike most on a trip is having to unpack and repack my bags every time I change locations. That’s why when Solgaard sent me the Carry-On Closet Large for review, I was beyond excited. I knew the bag’s main selling point was the retractable shelving system, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that there’s much more to it than that.

Constructed from unbreakable polycarbonate, with a lightweight aluminum frame, frictionless 360-degree wheels, and a TSA-approved lock, this rugged suitcase is sure to keep your belongings safe and secure en route. Moreover, the waterproof, scratch-resistant shell comes with reinforced corners and opens/closes with 2 metal latches instead of a zipper. All these features add to the bag’s durability and security, but also to its weight.

Solgaard’s patented built-in shelving system makes the suitcase easy to pack, organize, and unpack your belongings. This removable “closet” comes with 6 expandable mesh shelves where I was able to place T-shirts, dresses, undergarments, and toiletries for a week in France, plus a compression strap that held everything in place. Once I arrived in the hotel room, I found it really easy to pull the shelves out and hang them on the clothing rack.

I’ve only used the Carry-On Closet Large with the shelving unit, but the case is just as effective without it thanks to its practical butterfly design with two spacious main compartments, a compression feature with mesh zip pockets, and a drawstring bag for shoes or dirty laundry.

Last but not least, the bag is made from 229 plastic bottles that have been recovered from the ocean, and comes with smart details like a USB charging port, a TSA-approved, three-digit combination lock, and a comfortably soft grip handle.

• Rugged and durable construction
• Sustainably made
• Clever features
• It may be too large for international overhead bins
• On the heavier side
• Doesn’t include a battery for the charging port

Most Stylish Carry-On Luggage: Bric’s Bellagio 2.0 21” Carry-On Spinner Trunk

• Best feature: The high-end, vintage appeal
• Dimensions: 21.7″ x 15″ x 7.9″ (55cm x 38cm x 20cm)
• Material: Polycarbonate with Italian leather trim
• Weight: 7.1 lbs (3.2 kg)
• Volume: 40 L

Leave it to the Italians to make luggage poetic. An iconic retro-inspired silhouette detailed with full-grain Tuscan leather trim, the Bric’s Bellagio 2.0 21” Carry-On Spinner Trunk truly evokes the nostalgic allure of travel’s golden era. The stitching is flawless, the subtle gold metal accents give it a luxurious feel, and I love the timeless cream and cognac color combo. Simply put, it’s one of the most stylish cabin cases you can buy. But, as I was happy to discover during testing, it is much more than that.

Inside and out, there are a number of delightful details to talk about. To start with, the suitcase is crafted from lightweight, scuff-resistant polycarbonate and rolls smoothly on 4 enlarged Hinomoto wheels. On the same practical note, at 21.7 x 15 x 7.9 in, it is one of the few hardcase suitcases we have tested that complies with even the strictest carry-on size restrictions.

Extra security comes in the form of a two-way water-repellent zip closure with TSA-approved locks, and the adjustable handle feels sturdy while providing a comfortable grip, though I would have expected it to be covered in the same beautiful leather that enwraps the top grab handle and adorns the rest of the shell.

Another feature I’m a fan of is the bag’s interior, lined in a matching (and seductively soft) satin nylon and complete with roomy zip pockets for all the essentials. Both clamshell halves are designed to keep items tidy and in place – there’s a built-in compression pad on one side and a zippered compartment on the other.

• Lightweight yet sturdy shell
• Compact enough to fit in most airline overhead bins
• High-quality, water-resistant zippers
• The contrasting Italian leather trim really sets it apart
• It comes at a price
• No side handle
• A leather-wrapped telescoping handle would have been nice

Best Lightweight Carry-On Luggage: Bellroy Lite Duffel

• Best feature: The light weight
• Dimensions: 10.62” × 17.71” × 8.84” (27cm × 45cm × 25cm)
• Material: Recycled diamond-patterned ripstop
• Weight: 1.32 lbs (600 g)
• Volume: 30 L

You know a bag is truly worth it when you carry it on repeat, no matter the destination. One of those pieces for me is the Bellroy Lite Duffel . It miraculously packs a weekend’s worth of clothes (plus a pair of shoes, a large toiletry bag, and my Dyson airwrap styler) into a stylish, little package that’s comfortable on my shoulder, easy to lift into overhead bins, and also folds down for storage when I’m not using it.

I’ve always been a fan of Bellroy’s clever design and materials, and this multi-functional baby is yet another triumph. Made with a special water-resistant ripstop fabric created from recycled plastic, it’s oh-so lightweight but impressively strong.

The first thing I noticed about the Lite Duffel, besides the lack of weight, of course, was how the soft, flexible shell managed to retain its structure, even when empty – a quality I would not have expected to find in a bag that you can roll or fold up into your luggage. But I guess that’s what good design does, it makes the impossible possible. That means the bag will look equally good whether you just throw your gym gear in or fill it to the brim with a weekend’s worth of essentials.

And speaking of design brilliance, I am impressed with how much I could fit into this small duffel, plus how easy it was to wear. The full-length zipper opens from both ends for ultra-wide, unobstructed access to contents, while its classic barrel shape and padded shoulder strap make it a breeze to haul around.

And then there’s the organizational layout – tons of internal slip pockets and a quick-access zip compartment on the front make it easy to access and keep an accounting of all those tiny bits of gear. If that’s not enough, you can always combine it with packing cubes.

Long story short, the Bellroy Lite Duffel is the type of bag I’d be most inclined to take on road trips, although I can’t see why it wouldn’t be excellent as a carry-on bag for the airplane.

• Stylish, lightweight, and durable
• Surprising organization for a duffel bag
• Can be folded into luggage when not in use
• The shoulder strap could use some more padding
• There’s no laptop/tablet sleeve
• It’s not a suitcase

How We Test

As travelers, testing out travel bags comes naturally to us. Carry-ons are no exceptions.

We do it the old-fashioned way, like packing them in a pinch and rushing to the airport, dragging them through the unapologetic cobblestones of Europe under the scorching sun, all while trying to find that perfect light, background, and angle to photograph them at work under the disapproving stares of passersby.

We glide the suitcases across diverse surfaces, asses the comfort and ergonomics of the backpacks and duffels, and then analyze how each of them has elevated our travel experience. We evaluate the capacity, maneuverability, durability, organization, design, and aesthetic of each carry-on.

Things rarely go smoothly and hardly ever go as planned. But, you see, that’s the adventure of it all. We do this, so you don’t have to. And, we kinda like it.

5 Key Things to Consider When Buying Carry-On Luggage

Carry-on luggage comes in different shapes, styles, and sizes to serve different traveling purposes, and each option has its advantages and drawbacks. Before you decide which one is best for you, consider these factors:

— Carry-On Size Limits

Size matters when it comes to carry-on luggage. The most important step in selecting a bag is making sure it complies with your airline’s carry-on size requirements.

For domestic US flights, the most popular carry-on luggage size is 22″ x 14″ x 9″ (55cm x 35.5cm x 23cm), including the handle and wheels, but this can vary an inch or two depending on the airline or airplane type.

If you’re flying internationally, restrictions are often tighter. To ensure your cabin bag is accepted on all carriers, opt for one that’s 21″ (53cm) or less and extremely lightweight, as many foreign airlines also have weight limits.

Most of the products listed here meet major US & international airline carry-on size requirements, but for your peace of mind, please double-check the size limits for the particular airline you’ll be flying before buying cabin luggage, as these are subject to change without notice.

— Carry-On Weight Limits

Though major US domestic airlines like Delta, United, Southwest, or JetBlue don’t have weight restrictions for carry-on bags, things are different when you’re traveling internationally, especially on economy-class flights.

That said, taking into consideration only your carry-on luggage dimensions may not be enough. You may also have to comply with your carrier’s cabin baggage weight restrictions. Otherwise, you might be forced to check your carry-on or pay overweight fees to get your bag onboard.

The limits usually vary from 6 kg / 13 lbs (Thomas Cook Airlines) to 12 kg / 26 lbs (Air France), although sometimes this represents the combined weight of your two allowed cabin bags. Most of these companies allow passengers to bring a personal item with them in the cabin in addition to one piece of carry-on luggage. This can be a small handbag, briefcase, camera bag, or laptop bag.

— Hard Luggage vs. Soft Luggage

Thanks to its expandable nature, soft luggage lets you make the most of the interior packing space. While this is usually an advantage, especially if you like to shop when traveling, it will likely not work in your favor this time when the last thing you want is for your cabin bag to expand beyond airline carry-on size requirements.

Hard-sided carry-on bags, on the other side, are more durable and provide extra protection. Made from lightweight, high-tech materials, they’re easier to clean and have a sleeker, more modern look, but they usually lack exterior pockets and compartments for quick and easy access to travel essentials.

Ultimately, choosing between soft- and hard-shell luggage comes down to personal preference more than anything else.

— Two-Wheel vs. Spinner Carry-On Luggage

Four-wheel luggage is all the rage these days. Also called spinners, these upright suitcases are designed to gently roll alongside or in front of you and offer more maneuverability than two-wheeled bags thanks to their multi-directional wheels.

However, opting for a two-wheel carry-on has its advantages. While not as comfortable or mobile, this type of luggage offers you more internal space while also handling cobblestones and uneven surfaces much better than a spinner suitcase.

— Duffel vs. Backpack vs. Rolling Suitcase

It’s hard to beat the convenience of a rolling suitcase, but is it suitable for your trip? As with all types of luggage, make sure you buy a carry-on that fits your needs.

Portable, versatile, and extremely practical, duffel bags will suit a variety of occasions. Depending on their design and material, they can be used on city breaks, outdoor adventures, and just about anything in between. Take a stylish leather duffel with great organizational features on a short trip to Europe and opt for an elegant twill weekender with garment bag functionality when flying to a destination wedding. For hauling gear, on the other side, there’s nothing more functional than a rugged, weatherproof duffel with tons of carry options.

A wheeled carry-on luggage that glides smoothly across airports and hotel lobbies makes the perfect companion for savvy business travelers and frequent flyers, while a carry-on backpack might be a much better choice if you plan to move around a lot during your trip (think everything from adventure to urban exploration).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard carry-on luggage size? – Carry-on size limits vary from airline to airline, but the universally accepted dimensions in the US are 22″ x 14″ x 9″ (55cm x 35.5cm x 23cm), including the handles and the wheels. If you want to ensure your cabin bag makes it on board on international flights, opt for one that stands at 21″ (53cm) or less. Either way, we recommend you always check with your flight company first.

What to pack in a carry-on bag? – When flying, the carry-on is your most important luggage piece, so make sure you make the most of its space by packing smartly and in compliance with the rules and restrictions of each airline and country you are traveling to. Other than that, your cabin bag should be filled with the things you need most, such as medications, travel documents, electronics, jewelry, small toiletries, a change of clothes, and snacks for the flight. Or the things that you can only pack in a carry-on, like lithium batteries and electronic cigarettes.

What NOT to pack in your carry-on bag? – Some items that you are not allowed to pack in your carry-on suitcase include sharp objects, guns, firearms, flammable items, explosive materials, and most sporting equipment. Additionally, make sure you follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule, which states that all liquids must be in containers of no more than 3.4 ounces or 100ml, all containers must be placed inside a clear, zip-top, quart-sized plastic bag, and each passenger may only carry one such bag.

Are smart carry-on bags allowed on flights? Yes, smart carry-on bags are still allowed in airplanes as long as they have removable batteries. The smart luggage ban applies to smart luggage that includes non-removable lithium-ion batteries and has been in effect for five years in North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.

What are the best luggage brands? – While we can’t tell you which one is best for you, we are definitely excited to share with you our picks for the best luggage brands this year.

If you have any other questions, feel free to leave them in the comment section below. We will do our best to answer them as soon as possible.

Hello Meeroona, I have found this article very useful, especially given that I’m in search of regulated size cabin luggage with lots of room for transatlantic travel. Good stuff. Some were out of my price range, but I’ve definitely found a few that are within my price range AND functional AND funky!

Your article is certainly à rare pearl and the most fresh one. However, any idea if I’m looking for business function (frequent international traveler) yet outdoor quality (since I’m kinda amazed by the sensation of pulling the handle of my friend’s North Face ?

Hi Aimée,

In this case, I would recommend either the Monos Carry-On Pro or the MVST Trek.

Does anyone know what are the carry-on luggage size requirements for United and Delta?

Hi Frederick,

For United: The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (22 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm), including handles and wheels. Source: https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/baggage/carry-on.html

For Delta: – Baggage may not exceed 45 linear inches (or 114 cm) in combined length, width and height, including any handles and wheels, with the exception of small musical instruments that fit in the overhead compartment space or under-seat space available at the time of boarding. – Baggage must meet carry on size limits (approximately 22″ x 14″ x 9″ or 56 x 35 x 23 cm). Source: https://www.delta.com/content/www/en_US/traveling-with-us/baggage/during-your-trip/carry-on.html

Regardless of the company you choose to fly with, we encourage you (and all our readers) to always double check their carry-on luggage rules/size requirements as these are not only different from one another, but also subject to change without notice.

Love your attention to detail on these luggages. However I prefer leather duffle bags both carry on and check in. Any recommendations? looking for organisation , style, waterproof etc. thanks

Hi Brent! Have a look at our picks for the best weekender bags and best check-in luggage ! Maybe this will help.

Hello! Any recommendations for sturdy-wheel luggage? I need something with wheels that will stand up to repeated walks of a mile or more on concrete, blacktop, brick sidewalks…. Any articles that I find on heavy-duty luggage and the like, deal with how well the body should stand up to baggage handling. No one addresses to what extent the wheels will take a beating. Looking to spend under $150. Thanks!

Hi Ruth! We know exactly what you mean. We’ve had the same problem over the years and had to try lots of luggage pieces until finding the best ones. Anyway, we can only recommend a suitcase with Hinomoto wheels. If you do a quick search in this article, you will find a few suitcases with this type of wheel (Monos, Beis). Not sure if they fit your budget, though…If you’re not in a hurry, keep an eye on our Luggage Deals section , we feature some pretty good offers there, sometimes with discounts up to 80%!

Wow, great picks! My favorite is the spinner trunk from Bric’s.

Just what I was looking for! Been on a hunt for the perfect carry-on, especially since my last one gave up on me during a recent trip. Based on this review, I’ve got my eyes set on the Monos Carry-on Pro. It seems to tick all the boxes for my needs. Thanks for the detailed insights – it’s made my decision so much easier! Happy travels!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Never Miss A Story

I consent to receive email updates from Travel Away

Advertisement

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

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

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

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

What we considered

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

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

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

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

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

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

The research

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

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

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

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

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

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

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

Buying Options

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flaws but not dealbreakers

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

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

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

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

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

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

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

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

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

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

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

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

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

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

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

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

Best in Class

• The 8 Very Best Adjustable Bed Bases The 8 Very Best Adjustable Bed Bases
• The 9 Very Best Safety Razors (and Blades) The 9 Very Best Safety Razors (and Blade…
• The 15 Best Women’s Hiking Boots and Shoes The 15 Best Women’s Hiking Boots and Sho…
• The 8 Very Best Blow-dryer Brushes The 8 Very Best Blow-dryer Brushes
• The 9 Very Best Black Work Pants for Women The 9 Very Best Black Work Pants for Wom…
• The 10 Very Best Electric Razors The 10 Very Best Electric Razors
• The 17 Very Best Protein Powders The 17 Very Best Protein Powders
• The 16 Very Best Bras The 16 Very Best Bras
• The 12 Very Best Yoga Pants for Women The 12 Very Best Yoga Pants for Women
• The 6 Very Best Toaster Ovens The 6 Very Best Toaster Ovens
• The 11 Very Best Comforters The 11 Very Best Comforters
• The 8 Very Best Milk Frothers The 8 Very Best Milk Frothers
• The 11 Very Best Wrinkle Creams The 11 Very Best Wrinkle Creams
• The Very Best Men’s Razors The Very Best Men’s Razors
• The 13 Very Best Moisturizers for Mature Skin The 13 Very Best Moisturizers for Mature…
• The 20 Very Best Bathrobes for Women The 20 Very Best Bathrobes for Women
• 33 of the Very Best Vibrators 33 of the Very Best Vibrators
• The 12 Very Best Mattress Toppers The 12 Very Best Mattress Toppers
• 28 of the Very Best Sex Toys for Men 28 of the Very Best Sex Toys for Men
• The 10 Very Best Hard-Side Suitcases The 10 Very Best Hard-Side Suitcases
• The 5 Very Best Egyptian-Cotton Sheets The 5 Very Best Egyptian-Cotton Sheets
• The 13 Very Best Clothes-Drying Racks The 13 Very Best Clothes-Drying Racks
• The 11 Very Best Vitamin-C Serums The 11 Very Best Vitamin-C Serums
• The 10 Very Best Shampoos for Color-Treated Hair The 10 Very Best Shampoos for Color-Trea…
• The 11 Very Best Manscaping Tools The 11 Very Best Manscaping Tools
• The 9 Very Best Hand Creams The 9 Very Best Hand Creams
• The 12 Very Best White T-shirts for Women The 12 Very Best White T-shirts for Wome…
• The 6 Very Best Standing Desks The 6 Very Best Standing Desks
• The 10 Very Best Weekend Bags The 10 Very Best Weekend Bags
• 16 of the Very Best Water Bottles 16 of the Very Best Water Bottles
• The 18 Very Best Bath Towels The 18 Very Best Bath Towels
• The 11 Very Best Shampoos The 11 Very Best Shampoos
• The 7 Very Best Baby Bottles The 7 Very Best Baby Bottles
• The 17 Very Best Work Bags for Women The 17 Very Best Work Bags for Women
• The Very Best Men’s Underwear The Very Best Men’s Underwear
• The 10 Very Best Silk Pajamas for Women The 10 Very Best Silk Pajamas for Women
• The 8 Very Best Panini Presses The 8 Very Best Panini Presses
• The Best Kitchen Shears and Scissors The Best Kitchen Shears and Scissors
• The 10 Very Best Cooling Pillows The 10 Very Best Cooling Pillows
• The 15 Best Women’s Raincoats The 15 Best Women’s Raincoats
• The 10 Very Best Electric Toothbrushes The 10 Very Best Electric Toothbrushes
• The 7 Very Best Silk Pillowcases The 7 Very Best Silk Pillowcases
• The 9 Very Best Plush Mattress Toppers The 9 Very Best Plush Mattress Toppers
• The 12 Very Best Knife Sets The 12 Very Best Knife Sets
• The 16 Very Best Desk Lamps The 16 Very Best Desk Lamps
• The 10 Very Best Conditioners The 10 Very Best Conditioners
• The 16 Very Best Body Lotions for Dry Skin The 16 Very Best Body Lotions for Dry Sk…
• The 30 Very Best Mascaras The 30 Very Best Mascaras
• The 9 Very Best Digital Picture Frames The 9 Very Best Digital Picture Frames
• The 18 Very Best Quilts The 18 Very Best Quilts

The Very Best Carry-on Luggage

From duffel bags and rolling suitcases to roomy backpacks..

In this article

• Best carry-on luggage overall
• Best less expensive
• Best polycarbonate cases
• Best aluminum case
• Best softside
• Best mixed-material
• Best duffels
• Best backpacks

As someone who hasn’t checked a bag in more than five years of travel across the U.S. and abroad, I’ve thought a lot about what makes a good piece of carry-on luggage. A summertime European vacation calls for a sturdy wheeled suitcase, whereas backpacks will suit more rugged trips. Either way, the best carry-ons should be both capacious and easy to keep organized, with handy pockets and compartments. I prefer a carry-on that looks good, too, as I often take it out and about with me on the last day of my trip.

When it comes to shopping for luggage — especially online — it’s tough to know where to look and whether a suitcase will fit everything that you need inside. Luckily, my colleagues and I have tested all of these suitcases and bags ourselves, while also seeking advice from travel experts and frequent fliers about what they recommend. While you’re here, I’ve also written guides to the best personal item bags , the best toiletry bottles , and the best Dopp kits for men .

What we’re looking for

Most major U.S. airlines agree on the limits of a carry-on’s size (22 inches long x 14 inches wide x 9 inches high, to be exact). All the luggage on our list meets those requirements, so I’ve instead specified liter capacity.

Hard-sided or soft-sided

All the cases featured here have spinner wheels, making them easier to maneuver, and most of them are hard-sided. With bags (which on this list, are all soft-sided), I’ve specified which kinds of straps and padding they have, as you’ll need to think about how they distribute the weight of your stuff.

Compartments

Again, this comes down to personal preference, and you may have your own system to keep your essentials organized. But if you’re anything like me and you need to frantically check for your passport every five minutes, various pockets are really handy. They’ll also help you easily grab your laptop and liquids when heading through security.

I’ve highlighted the warranty on each carry-on and the kinds of damage it covers. Most companies I’ve listed will fix faults that are due to manufacturing defects, but general wear and tear isn’t covered.

Best carry-on overall

Dimensions: 39.8 liter | Hard-sided or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Compartments: Organizational compartments, laundry bag | Warranty: Lifetime warranty

The Away carry-on has been recommended to us time and time (and time) again, prompting my fellow Strategist writer Rachael Griffiths to try one out for herself. She already knew the suitcase had 360-degree spinner wheels, a polycarbonate shell, built-in dividers, and dimensions that match the airline guidance for a carry-on-size case. As for its capacity, she was able to roll and pack three tops, a pair of jeans, a skirt, a dress, two bikinis, underwear, socks, and pajamas in the secondary compartment. On the other side, she put a bulkier sweater , a weekend’s worth of toiletries (including her entire skin-care routine), some trainers, and an AirWrap. “Not only did it all slot in with plenty of space, but I also appreciated the built-in laundry bag for my dirty clothes,” she says.

The Away Carry On’s spinner wheels are perhaps its most underrated design feature. Griffiths’s street in London is cobblestoned, so she previously dreaded lugging suitcases along it. “But the sturdy wheels meant the Away didn’t rattle as much as I’d anticipated,” she says. And on flat surfaces, “just a flick from my finger sent the case gliding.”

The brand’s warranty is also worth noting. Strategist editor Maxine Builder’s internal zipper broke in March 2019, and she emailed Away to ask if this damage was covered. “There was a fair bit of back-and-forth over the next four months,” she says. “But I ended up with a replacement suitcase in exactly the same limited-edition colorway with the same hand-painted monogram, all for free.”

If you’re traveling domestic — and not across Europe, where carry-on allowances are smaller — consider the Away Bigger Carry-On . It’s slightly roomier at 47.9 liters, meaning you can squeeze that extra sweater or spare pair of shoes inside.

Best less expensive carry-on case

Capacity: 37 liter | Hard-sided or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Compartments: Compressed compartments | Warranty: Three-year warranty

This budget-friendly case is a favorite of writer Robin Reetz . It’s cheaper than many polycarbonate options because it’s made from ABS, which is a less durable plastic. But when Griffiths tested it, she was struck by how durable the shell felt (and even punched it a few times for good measure, to a satisfying thud sound).

Although the case is made of cheaper materials, both Reetz and Griffiths found that its compartments and 360-degree spinner wheels perform very well. “It’s really perfect for a weekend or a four-to-five-day trip,” Reetz says. “I’ve traveled recently with friends who have Away and Delsey luggage, and all of them are now thinking about getting this bag.” It feels noticeably smaller, though, and as Griffiths was attempting to squeeze her boots inside, she did find herself longing for the extra few liters of her Away case.

Best roomy polycarbonate carry-on case

Capacity: 46 liter | Hard-sided or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Compartments: Hidden laundry bag | Warranty: Lifetime warranty  

Meanwhile, Strategist associate editor Jenna Milliner-Waddell favors this polycarbonate case from July. “I’ve never had an issue with mine fitting in an overhead cabin, and it’s been roomy enough to hold clothes for an outfit-change-heavy weekend in Miami and a weeklong trip to my parents’ house over the holidays,” she says. She’s also impressed by the bag’s silent wheels: “I used to only Uber to JFK because dragging my suitcase to the subway and getting stuck on every uneven patch of sidewalk in Brooklyn was infuriating. Now I have no problem rolling it wherever.” Even though it’s on the larger side — when Griffiths tested it, she had room for an extra pair of boots as well as her regular packing list — the bag just about squeezes through airline carry-on restrictions. It also comes with an ejectable battery (which had more than enough juice to fully recharge my iPhone 13). Much like the Away, the July case is easy to wipe clean, but its color range has a little more to offer — particularly its seasonal shades, which right now include a dreamy sky blue and neon green.

Best statusy polycarbonate carry-on case

Capacity: 37 liter | Hard-sided or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Compartments: Flexible compartments | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

A Rimowa case is like the Frette sheets of luggage: luxurious but expensive. Part of the luxury is how it streamlines common annoyances. It slots seamlessly into overhead bins and glides through the airport on its resilient spinner wheels. Taymoor Atighetchi , the founder and CEO of Papier , put it simply: “Nothing beats Rimowa’s smooth wheels.”

You also get the brand’s Multiwheel system, adjustable dividers, a sturdy telescopic handle, and TSA-approved locks. The Essential Cabin’s polycarbonate shell makes it much lighter than a classic aluminum Rimowa. This means you can almost treat it like a checked bag, without the weight, according to fashion content creator Isabel Tan , who recently squeezed 15 outfits into hers for a trip to Bali. Stylist Tina Leung , who fills her case to the brim, agrees. Like Away, Rimowa offers a lifetime guarantee on its cases, and Leung told us that almost every destination she has traveled to has a place to pop in for repairs. “If the wheels break off or something, it’s so easy to just go and get it fixed,” she says. “There’s pretty much one in every major city.”

Best polycarbonate carry-on case for longer trips

Capacity: 39-liter | Hard-sided or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Compartments: Compression shelving | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

Solgaard’s closet case is an absolute revelation. I first heard about it from Kiki Reginato, New York Magazine’s senior director of e-commerce operations. “This case has space — and then some. I have the smallest one, and I’ve taken it on many ten-day trips ,” she says. The case has a set of compression compartments that unfold to create a makeshift closet — eliminating the need to unpack into a real closet. The Solgaard had space for the weekend essentials that Griffiths packed in the July and the Away (to recap: three tops, jeans, a skirt, a dress, two bikinis, underwear, socks, pajamas, a bulkier jumper, toiletries, trainers, and a hair dryer).

But it had an added bonus: When she tested it, she could clearly see where everything was. And compressing the clothes is satisfying, too. “Once you pack everything, you can pull the straps on the side and it presses everything into this compact mass of clothing,” says Reginato. “It’s kind of like a vacuum seal.” Most airlines worldwide accept her medium 39-liter bag, and you can take the large-size case on most U.S. airlines.

Best aluminum carry-on case

Capacity: 40.9 liter | CaseHard-sided or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Compartments: Laundry bag and compression bands | Warranty: Lifetime warranty

Aluminum cases have plenty of attractive qualities. They’re far more durable than both polycarbonate and soft-side cases , there’s less chance they’ll crack, and they often use clamps instead of zips, making them even more secure . Less attractive, though, is their price point — the classic Rimowa aluminum case is an eye-watering $1,500.  

But just like its polycarbonate case, the Away aluminum version is worth the money: It actually has the same features as the more expensive Rimowa for a fraction of the price . That includes the sturdy shell and clamp closing — which travel writer Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon says are ultra-secure — as well as the spinner wheels, telescopic handle, and built-in lock that I like so much about the original Away case. All in all, it’s a great more affordable option for any travelers who have their heart set on aluminum. Just remember that metal suitcases are a few pounds heavier than their plastic counterparts.

Best soft-side carry-on case

Capacity: 39 liter | Hard-sided or soft-sided: Soft sided | Compartments: Zip pockets and removable toiletry bag | Warranty: Ten years

Victorinox is best known for knives ( we’ve featured several on the Strategist ), but its luggage is also known for being equally utilitarian — simple and durable. “I swear by a soft-shell bag over a hard shell,” says Jessie Hyman , co-founder of Pruzan Running . “It takes up less space in the hotel room because you don’t need to lay it flat to access what’s inside.” Hyman travels with the Victorinox specifically because of its roomy capacity and squishy recycled polyester exterior. “I have always managed to squeeze in a vacation purchase inside this bag since it expands and compresses,” she says. “It’s actually converted me to be more of a carry-on gal than before.”

Best less-expensive soft-side carry-on case

Capacity: 39 liter | Hard-sided or soft-sided: Soft sided | Compartments: Two exterior compartments, lid pocket, and device pocket | Warranty: Five years

TripSavvy’s former general manager Molly Fergus is a big fan of this “basic but effective” suitcase. Strategist readers are too: It’s one of the best-selling picks in our story on the best rolling luggage , while also being a best seller from our Travel 100 (a list of all the best travel items we’ve ever written about.) As it’s a soft-side, Fergus is able to squeeze her clothes and essentials inside, and she says that the wheels are tough enough to be “dragged across sand, dirt, and cobblestones.” If the wheels aren’t up to scratch, though, they and the zips and handles are covered under the Travelpro five-year warranty.

Best mixed-material carry-on case

Capacity: 38 liter | Hard-sided or soft-sided: Hard-sided shell with soft-sided pockets | Compartments: Dedicated laptop pocket | Warranty: Two-year warranty for manufacturing faults

This case’s shell and wheels are hardy, and the pocket is “great to quickly tuck in your laptop and get it out fast through security,” says Brittany Allyn, founder of Thirty Waves . It also rolls along quickly and smoothly. As Allyn puts it, “having a bag that can fit as much as possible (because I’m an overpacker and not afraid to say so) and can get me to my gate ASAP is most important.” The bag is also a tried and tested favorite of Strategist deals editor Sam Daly, who’s been traveling with it since 2019. Daly appreciates the steadfast lock and a small but mighty selection of colorways (the sage green looks similar to Rimowa’s Bamboo).

Best carry-on duffel bag

Capacity: 40 liter | Hard-sided or soft-sided: Soft-sided with handles and shoulder straps | Compartments: Various handy pockets | Warranty: Lifetime warranty

We recently named the Black Hole by Patagonia the best overall weekend bag as praised by Strategist editors and frequent travelers. To give you an idea of how much you can fit inside, Pruzan Running co-founder Lexy Copithorne told us she packed “everything for a two-week trip, including city and surfwear” inside her Black Hole. “That included two sweaters, several fitted tanks and running sets, two pairs of sneakers, boots, a few swimsuits, and my toiletry bag,” she says. While the bag is lightweight (at less than three pounds) and water resistant thanks to a waxy coating, the strap design is what makes it a thoughtful travel companion. If you’ll be trekking far, the over-the-shoulder strap can be switched out for backpack straps to give your shoulders a respite.

Best carry-on backpack for short trips

Capacity: 35 liter | Hard-sided or soft-sided: Soft-sided with shoulder straps | Case vs. bag: Bag with shoulder straps | Compartments: Mesh packing cubes | Warranty: One-year return period

The Cotopaxi Allpa is one of those rare products that’s as good as the people on TikTok say. Essentially a soft suitcase with backpack straps, it’s easy to organize as it has built-in packing cubes made from colorful see-through mesh and, unlike most backpacks that just unzip at the top, a butterfly opening allows you to see and rummage around those cubes easily. I took mine on a train trip through Morocco last summer, and it earned many admirers on the journey. Writer Margaret Eby used it to take a change of clothes, a laptop, snacks, a sun hat, a jewelry case, a day purse, and even a crochet project on a ten-day trip to Italy. And she says it fits comfortably under the seat in front of you — no squishing required.

Best carry-on backpack for long trips

Capacity: 40 liter | Hard-sided or soft-sided: Soft-sided with shoulder straps | Case vs. bag: Bag with shoulder straps | Compartments: Large main compartment, adjacent zipped mesh compartment, laptop sleeve | Warranty: Lifetime

Tortuga is another brand that makes excellent suitcase-style backpacks that are ideal for using as carry-on luggage. I’ve recently been testing out this bag, which lacks the Allpa’s built-in packing cubes but does include a more built-out laptop sleeve with a few zips and compartments for small items. It is also larger in capacity without being too heavy or unwieldy. The sternum straps are comfortable and can be tucked away when not in use, the bag’s rectangular shape means it slots easily into overhead lockers, and I like that the exterior fabric is waterproof and easy to wipe down.

Some other carry-on luggage we’ve written about

Our experts

• Brittany Allyn, digital creator behind Thirty Waves • Taymoor Atighetchi, the CEO and founder of Papier • Gabby Beckford , travel blogger • Lexy Copithorne , co-founder of Pruzan Running • Lauren Chan, the CEO and founder of Henning • Margaret Eby , writer • Molly Fergus , TripSavvy’s former general manager • Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon , travel writer also known as Jet Set Sarah • Summer Hull, Points Guy travel content director • Jessie Hyman , co-founder of Pruzan Running • Simone Kitchens , Strategist senior editor • Briona Lamback, Buoyant Travel founder • Tina Leung , stylist • Heather Morri s, actress, producer, and host of podcaster The Bystanders • Robin Reetz , Strategist contributor • Kiki Reginato, New York Magazine senior director of e-commerce operations and strategy • Isabel Tan , fashion content creator • Jenna Milliner Waddell , Strategist associate editor • Andres Zuleta, travel expert and founder of Boutique Japan

Additional reporting by Rachael Griffiths .

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

• the strategist
• travel accessories
• best in class
• holiday travel guide

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

Deal of the Day

Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.

• All of the Best Mother’s Day Gift Ideas
• 10 Things That Delighted Us: From Cardboard Bed Frames to Compact Makeup Stacks
• The 17 Very Best Protein Powders
• All the Best Walking Shoes We’ve Ever Written About
• What Steve Madden Can’t Live Without
• What Joey Fatone Can’t Live Without

Today’s Top Clicked

The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our simulations reveal which bags you can count on

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

TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

A solid backpack is key to a successful trip. Think about it: You can use it as a carry-on, and if you pack light, it'll be the only piece of luggage you bring on a trip. It won't weigh you down as you rush to catch the inter-terminal train at the airport, and it'll look good on you as you stroll the streets of your destination. Find a good travel backpack, and it will serve you for years to come.

There’s a lot to consider when looking for a backpack to take you through all kinds of situations and environments. Waterproof, anti-theft, stylish, lightweight, wheels or no wheels—all things to keep in mind as you shop. To help you make the right choice, we tested 32 carry-on backpacks in our New York testing lab and in the real world. We tested for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value.

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested, other carry-on backpacks we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

Super durable material

Very comfortable with multiple carry methods

Lighter and more rugged than previous models

Nothing yet

Does the perfect travel backpack exist? We’re not sure, but we can’t think of one that comes closer than the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. This second version of Cotopaxi’s best-selling backpack is rugged and comfy, has excellent organization capabilities, and is the perfect size to throw in an overhead bin, toss in a vehicle, and huff around from train to hostel.

The pack uses burly TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and lightweight 840-denier ballistic nylon paneling. It has excellent weight distribution with comfy shoulder and sternum straps and hip belts, or stow the straps and carry the pack with side handles. The inside features multiple pockets of different sizes that we found perfect for separating clean and dirty clothes, electronics, and shoes. Bonus: It comes with a rainfly to protect it from the weather.

Capacity: 35 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 8 ounces | Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | Materials: TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and 840-denier ballistic nylon

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Osprey fairview 40.

Quite spacious while remaining carry-on sized

Keeps belongings secure

Good padding and weight distribution

Osprey’s women-specific Fairview 40 pack impressed our tester with its size, space, and compartments. “This bag has a lot of compartments and a lot of straps to hold everything in place,” our tester reported. Despite the bag fitting a bit large, our tester said it was still very comfortable to wear. Osprey employs its proprietary Lightwire Frame Suspension, which helps spread the weight across the back panel and from the harness to the hip belt.

Despite being a 40-liter pack, it weighs just about 3 pounds, thanks to the lightweight nylon ripstop material and frame. “It did not hurt my back, and I like how most of the weight was shifted to my lower back,” our tester mentioned. Besides the fit, we also appreciated that all straps are stowable, making it easy in case you need to check the bag on a plane (which is possible on smaller planes with this larger-capacity pack). For the men’s version of the same pack, check out the Farpoint 40 .

Capacity: 38 liters (extra-small/small size) | Weight: 3 pounds, 1 ounce | Dimensions: 19.3 x 13.8 x 8 inches | Materials: 210-denier nylon mini hex diamond ripstop and 600-denier packcloth

Best Budget

Vancropak 40l travel backpack.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 3 /5
• Comfort 4 /5

Great for a short-to-medium-length trip

Could double as a business travel pack

Feature packed and user friendly

Lacks tech compartment

Cloth material could get dirty easily

This 40-liter pack checks all the boxes, including excellent value. Vancropak says it fits enough for trips between three and seven days, and we’d have to agree. “It fit everything even though I packed quickly and not thoughtfully or strategically,” our tester said. “It’s perfect for a weekend trip when you want to pack extra ‘just in case’ outfits or items. It even expands to provide more room. It has extra pockets, opens like a suitcase, has many different handles, and backpack straps that can be tucked and zipped away.” Compression straps also help shrink the bag back down after being packed.

And if you weren’t convinced yet of its value, it also includes packing cubes. “Its business-casual aesthetic makes it ideal for short business trips, too,” a tester added. One nitpick? There’s no laptop sleeve. But our testers thought the other features—and comfort—more than made up for that slight issue.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.98 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 13.7 x 6.2 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Functional straps

Multiple ways to carry

Not too weighty

Our tester didn’t love the style

If you didn’t dig the budget pack above, behold another excellent value travel pack. Like the Vancropak, the Asenlin Travel Backpack also includes three packing cubes. Our testers found they could easily fit everything needed for a weekend trip. They also liked the internal straps for organization and the external straps for compression. “It offers three different carrying methods, which is nice,” the testers reported. “It has a lot of different pockets and storage areas. The bottle holder on the side also unzips to expand, which is a thoughtful addition.”

Our testers liked how comfortable the bag was to wear and that it wasn’t overly heavy (the brand claims it weighs less than 3 pounds). We also believe this could double as a business travel bag.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester Oxford cloth

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

• Comfort 3 /5

Fits about a week’s worth of items

Loads of internal organization

Comes with an additional laundry bag

Uncomfortable to carry at times

Some scuff marks after tossing around

While we certainly love this bag's sleek and simplistic aesthetic, there’s a lot more to it than just looks. It’s durable and water-resistant and has multiple carry options (e.g., duffel and over the shoulders), a separate shoe compartment, lots of tech organization, and a TSA-ready laptop sleeve.

Our testers loved the capacity of this pack. “It easily fit everything on the list with plenty of room to spare,” one tester said. “I think everything you would need for up to a week away would fit easily.” The pronounced rectangular shape of the bag made it extra easy to pack and helped organize folded clothes. “The bag had two different shoe pockets, a laptop sleeve, and many other compartments for both smaller clothing items and even some work supplies,” a tester reported.

The one drawback of this pack was our testers didn’t find it the most comfortable. Specifically, the straps were stiff and dug into one tester’s neck. Overall, though, our testers were very pleased with the pack and thought it was worth the fit, especially for the design and ease of packing.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.4 pounds | Dimensions: 19 x 21 x 14 inches | Materials: Not listed

Best Multi-use

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

Excellent capacity

Easy to handle

Thoughtful storage solutions

This 45-liter travel pack from Peak Design debuted at the Outdoor Retailer Expo in 2018 and promptly won many awards. A few years later, it still holds up. Peak Design basically thought of everything when designing this pack. The outside features weatherproof recycled 400-denier nylon canvas and ultralight padded foam. It includes grab handles on each side, stowable hip belts, and a sternum strap. The inside has multiple pockets for organization and loads of room for trips of four days or longer.

Our testers loved the size and the zippers allowing access from four different sides of the bag. “It was super easy to pack, and there were just enough organization solutions to provide options for different packing strategies,” a tester said. “I also loved how many handles there were. A grab handle on all four main sides of the bag makes it super easy to maneuver, especially when putting it in the overhead compartment.”

Testers also liked the sheath built into the pack to stow the hip belt and the small pocket on the belt for stashing quick-grab items like lip balm, keys, or cards. They also enjoyed the water bottle pockets on both sides and the pack's comfort. Oh, and this pack is 100 percent carbon neutral. The only issue they saw was the price—it’s one of the most expensive on this list. But if you can look at this as an investment, the durability suggests it should last for many years. It's certainly carry-on luggage that any travel-savvy guy can appreciate.

Capacity: 45 liters | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Weatherproof 100 percent recycled 400-denier nylon canvas external shell and 900-denier waterproof bottom liner

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Most Comfortable

Topo designs global travel bag 40l.

Topo Designs

Excellent internal organization

Many different carrying options

Great for long travel days

Could be roomier

If your travel involves carrying your backpack for long periods, we recommend Topo Designs' Global Travel Bag. This super durable pack is also super comfortable with plush and padded shoulder straps and a hip belt. We also love that there are multiple ways to carry this pack with a comfy and padded sling. Its construction includes durable and recycled nylons with a canvas feel. And it meets Fair Wear certification standards, ensuring fair labor practices.

“There are a ton of compartments and pockets, so a lot of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes,” one tester said. “I could easily see places to stash cords, travel docs, electronics, water bottles, and more.”

While our testers liked a lot about this bag—including its durability—the comfort won them over. “All the features built into the bag suggest it's intended to create maximum comfort for someone who anticipates carrying the bag for a more extended period of time,” our tester concluded.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 10.4 ounces | Dimensions: 22.5 x 14 x 7.5 inches | Materials: 1000-denier recycled nylon, 400-denier recycled nylon, 210-denier recycled nylon, 1680-denier recycled ballistic nylon

Best Splurge

Bellroy transit backpack plus.

Flat opening made for easy packing

Comfortable to carry

Long lasting

Minimal internal organization

If you weren't convinced by our business travel pick above, consider this your alternative. This pack's sleek, durable, and comfortable design makes it ideal for business and formal travel. Our testers found it easy to fit enough items for up to three or four days away. Lighter packers could stretch this to five days. The inside is designed more like a typical carry-on pack with one large compartment.

“This bag felt super light on my back and was padded in all the right places,” a tester reported. “It has adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the back of the pack when you don't want to use them, which is a genius feature.” Our testers were also impressed with the bag's durability, as it survived being tossed around our lab with zero marks or scuffs.

Capacity: 38 liters | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.4 inches | Materials: Recycled Dura nylon

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Suitcase-like opening allows easy access

Eco-friendly materials

Suitable for long travel days

Internal organization may be overcomplicated for some

Launched in 1958, Samsonite’s Silhouette collection is likely the oldest on our list. But those six decades of innovation have helped make this one of the best and most versatile bags out there—not to mention one with excellent style. You can also feel good about your purchase knowing that it features 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET bottles.

Our testers liked the size of the bag and the opening, similar to a suitcase, which made it easy to pack and access items. There were many—almost too many—pockets and compartments. And our testers loved how comfortable and supportive this bag was to carry, noting its excellent weight distribution. “I would recommend this bag to someone looking for a backpack they can use as a primary form of luggage,” a tester concluded. “It has enough room and compartments to fit all of the essentials and keep them organized. It's also comfortable, supportive, and easy to carry.”

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 3.31 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 12.5 x 7 inches | Materials: Polyester and Recyclex

Best for Techies

Thule subterra backpack 34l.

Functional and looks good

Bag included for dirty laundry

Portable charger

Not the most comfortable

We’ve been pleasantly surprised with Thule’s line of luggage. And that certainly includes the Subterra backpack. This rugged pack could also be a good commuter option as it has a magnetic rolling top closure, a padded laptop sleeve, and a PowerPocket for charging items on the go. We love that it has many access points and comes with a packing cube and garment bag for dirty clothes.

"I loved being able to put my normal packing cubes inside the big cube that comes with the bag, and I was able to use the bag as a day bag anytime I needed to carry extra, and it never felt super bulky,” a tester reported—however, they noted that the bag didn’t particularly help their already-sore back. Not surprisingly, considering its construction, the pack aced our durability tests.

Capacity: 34 liters | Weight: 2.75 pounds | Dimensions: 20.5 x 12.2 x 9.1 inches | Materials: 800-denier nylon

Best for Storage

Mystery ranch mission rover.

Mystery Ranch

Sturdy with grab handles around the pack

Well-designed internal storage

Different ways to carry

A bit heavy

If you’ve never heard of Mystery Ranch, let us introduce you to the Bozeman, Montana-based brand, which makes super rugged packs for backpacking, hunting, the military, and firefighters. This travel-focused pack is incredibly solid on the outside and has many excellent organization and design features inside.

Highlights include a stowable hip belt and shoulder straps, multiple carrying options, a dirty clothes compartment, three inner divided pockets, and lockable zippers.

Capacity: 30, 45, and 60 liters | Weight: 4.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 12 inches | Materials: Plain spun nylon, 210-denier nylon

We recommend the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack thanks to its incredibly durable polyester and nylon materials, well-designed internal storage, and included rainfly. Another great pick is the Vancropak Travel Backpack , which rings up at a fraction of the cost of some other options on the market.

We selected products to test based on the expertise of TripSavvy editors and writers and on internet research. Not surprisingly, TripSavvy editors and writers travel a lot. And they have many carry-on backpacks they like and don’t like.

To ensure we weren’t missing anything, we also researched what other prominent sites have featured and looked at top-rated and reviewed backpacks on sites like Amazon and REI. Once an initial list of products was selected, we narrowed it down to the final 28 for testing based on style, function, and price.

We tested the backpacks for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value. In our New York City-based testing lab, we asked testers to pack each backpack with three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag to test for capacity. We asked the testers to consider all aspects of the backpack’s construction, organizational capabilities, and any design innovations.

Testers then carried each backpack around using the different carrying styles. We asked the testers to rate how comfortable the bag felt fully packed. After the comfort test, we asked testers to toss and throw the bag several feet multiple times. We looked for damage on the outside of the bag and any damage to products inside the bag. Lastly, we asked testers to rate the bag for overall value after a price reveal.

We have since sent the backpacks to testers to continue testing as they travel. We will update this document accordingly as their insights are submitted.

Aer Travel Pack 3 : This pack was comfortable to wear thanks to its supportively firm and cushioned back, while its rugged fabric stood up well to rough handling. Our tester subtracted some points for capacity, as it was a squeeze to get everything on the list to fit, and for the more function-forward style.

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack : This bag is very nice to look at and proved quite durable. However, it's on the small side and the features aren't particularly travel-oriented—namely, the inflexible bottle holder and the magnetic flip top that is easily displaced when the pack is full.

Minaal Carry-on 3.0 Bag : Our tester appreciated the comfort of the straps and the practical capacity of this bag, though the price was on the higher end and the packing experience was a bit of a learning curve.

Monos Metro Backpack : Another looker, the design of this bag got high praise. We liked the 270-degree opening, the easy-release front pouch, and the comfortable straps. At 18 liters, this back is more of a complement piece to other luggage and could use a better weight distribution system.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable : The expansion feature was a hit once we figured out how to use it and the durability of this pack was undeniable. It was difficult to look past a faulty zipper design that got caught frequently when trying to close.

What to Look For in a Carry-on Backpack

Prices for carry-on backpacks vary widely, so consider what your greatest needs are. You can find a spacious travel backpack for under $100—often under $50—but if you plan on facing harsh outdoor environments , consider investing a bit more money for something waterproof. Leather backpacks can cost hundreds of dollars; keep this in mind if that material is important to you. Anti-theft travel backpacks can be a bit more expensive but are often essential in highly trafficked destinations.

There are so many styles out there you could spend days filtering through the different backpacks on the market. Keep it simple: How will you be using this backpack? If you’re interfacing with clients or business partners, look for something minimal and sleek that doesn’t showcase a million pockets. If you plan on living out of your backpack for most of your trip, pockets are more of a priority. You'll want a bag that zips open flat like a suitcase for easy packing and unloading (this also makes going through security easier).

If you are using your travel backpack for hiking, find something with a removable hip harness to distribute the weight of your pack better when you’re on the move. If you plan on wearing your travel backpack casually—only in the airport or to work—seek out a style with adjustable straps and a padded back. This will help ward off any back pain, especially if you carry a lot of weight. When you’re trying on backpacks, test out the shoulder straps and imagine how they would feel if the pack was filled to capacity. Is there ample padding? Will the material cut into your shoulders? Does the back of the backpack feel like it would be breathable?

The size of backpacks is generally measured in volume (liters) or dimensions (inches or centimeters). While it is essential to refer to the specific requirements of the airline you'll be flying, a good starting point for a carry-on when flying domestically is 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 total linear inches (115 centimeters) including all handles and wheels. This size comes out to a 43-liter pack, so anything smaller should easily meet any U.S. airline size restrictions. However, this is only the beginning, and several factors may increase or decrease your allowance, such as the size of the plane and flight class you book.

This will vary based on your backpack's materials. For nylon and other water-resistant fabrics, get a damp cloth and spot-clean your pack. A damp cloth will also do the trick if your bag has plastic or metal elements. For leather backpacks, you’ll want to purchase a special leather conditioner and cleaner to maintain the integrity of your backpack.

This is an excellent feature if you plan on hiking or spending long periods carrying your backpack. It will help distribute the weight of your pack better across your body, ultimately providing more comfort. Most backpacks that are focused on outdoor adventures will have this feature.

Many backpacks are marketed as anti-theft, meaning it’s tougher for someone else to get inside your pack. Some backpacks have zippers that allow you to open the main interior compartment while wearing it—so you don’t have to take it off and risk having someone else pick it up. Others are designed with webbing over the zipper openings, making it very hard for someone to locate and unzip the bag while you have it on.

No, this is not the norm when it comes to backpacks. Compression cords make packing easier and function the same way a compression strap or cord would work in a regular suitcase. Some travel-focused carry-on backpacks do have this built-in. But if you want to squeeze in more items, consider investing in some packing cubes . These will help organize your backpack, too.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy’s Outdoor Gear Editor. He has traveled to five continents, including plane, train, and bus travel. For most travel scenarios, he prefers backpacks over spinners or roller suitcases because of their ruggedness and different carrying methods. He currently uses Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L, Thule’s Subterra, and Topo Design’s Global Travel Pack the most. Each product recommended in this review was thoroughly researched and tested.

The 9 Best Travel Toiletry Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

The 11 Best Hardside Luggage Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Camping Cots of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 14 Best Backpack Brands of 2024

The Best Daypacks for Hiking of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Beach Chairs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 10 Best Anti-Theft Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Travel Money Belts of 2024

The 8 Best Luggage Sets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Camp Trunks of 2024

The 6 Best Small Coolers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Beach Blankets of 2024

The 8 Best Duffel Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Bags and Backpacks for Disney of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best underseat cabin bags for avoiding airline baggage fees

By Chelsea Dickenson and Lauren Burvill

Gone are the days where a carry on bag simply meant a small suitcase that you can wheel onto the plane and store in the overhead bin. Instead, especially when travelling short haul in Europe, you rarely get more than an underseat bag included in your fare for free, and even then you have to make sure it fits in the strict measurements for your specific airline. While it can be a headache to navigate these rules, the good news is that there are plenty of bags on the market that make life easier for you. Here are my top picks when it comes to the best underseat carry on bags for budget airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet.

How we choose the underseat cabin bags

Every bag on this list has been independently tested and reviewed by budget-travel expert Chelsea Dickenson of Cheap Holiday Expert , as well as our in-house editors. When testing these bags, we look for function, design features, quality and overall value for money.

• Best all rounder: Cabin Max Travel Bag
• Best for maximum packing space: Decathlon 20L Bag Essential
• Best for quality: Antler Chelsea Overnight Bag
• Best under seat suitcase: Flight Knight Lightweight 4 Wheel Suitcase
• Best under seat backpack: Lossga Backpack with USB Charging Port

Cabin Max Travel Bag

When I asked others for underseat carry on bag recommendations, the Cabin Max range was the response I heard numerous times. This makes sense when you realise that the company truly understands the plight of bargain hunting travellers and so have created a line where each backpack meets the exact maximum measurements for the specific airline that you’re flying. In addition, their bags feature multiple pockets (including one for a laptop and bottle), adjustable ‘packaway’ straps and air mesh padding. There’s a 3 year warranty too.

The only downside is that if you opt for a larger bag – say the easyJet size – it probably won’t fit in the baggage sizer for either Ryanair or Wizz Air. However, you could always opt for a Ryanair sized bag to make sure you’re sorted for all options in the future. Chelsea Dickenson

• Ryanair Size: 40 x 20 x 25cm – Fits on: Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet
• Wizz Air Size: 40 x 30 x 20cm – Fits on: Wizz Air and easyJet
• easyJet Size: 40 x 36 x 20cm – Fits on : easyJet

Decathlon 20L Bag Essential

You might have seen the ‘ viral Ryanair bag ’ doing the rounds on social media but I think this bag is better. For one, it’s cheaper at just £6.99, and the shoulder strap is going to make carrying this bag a lot easier than hauling around a bag by just its handles. Originally created as a gym bag to separate your workout gear from your shoes, the two compartments work just as well for travel. Plus, all Decathlon products come with a two-year warranty, so while it may not be the best quality bag, you’ll be covered for your next few trips at least. CD

• Size when folded: 23 x 20 x 10 cm
• Size unfolded: 40 x 23 x 20 cm
• Fits on: Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet

Antler Chelsea Overnight Bag

It might be called an overnight bag, but if you pack strategically Antler's Chelsea bag can easily work as a weekender bag. I travelled with it on a recent trip to Barcelona and was able to comfortably fit a weekend's worth of clothes and toiletries. Although if you need to pack extra shoes, there's room for a pair of flip flops but little more. If you're a frequent flyer, this is a worthy investment – in addition to numerous internal and external pockets and compartments, including a laptop sleeve and a water bottle pouch, it also has an over-handle sleeve, making it an ideal option to take on a long-haul flight . The bag is made in a durable water-resistant nylon and comes in nine different colour options, which of course match their Chelsea suitcase range . See our full Antler Chelsea overnight bag review for more. Lauren Burvill

• Size: 41.5 x 26 x 18cm
• Fits on: easyJet

Lossga Backpack with USB Charging Port

If there’s one thing I’ve learnt from reviewing small cabin bags is that they can get surprisingly heavy if you fill them to the brim! If you'd prefer to avoid heavy shoulder straps, an underseat backpack is the better option. I can’t get over just how many features this pack from Lossga has, including multiple pockets, a laptop sleeve, compression straps, a 180 degree ‘clamshell’ opening, and even a USB port for you to connect your own portable battery pack to.

For the price, it looks good – the outer material has a shine to it which keeps it from looking too cheap. The inside material is less lux, but it’s practical nonetheless. Overall, it’s a fantastic bag for the price and one of my top picks. CD

• Size: 40 x 20 x 25 cm

Flight Knight Lightweight 4 Wheel Suitcase

If you hate the thought of hoisting a heavy bag along with you for your holiday; don’t worry. There are only a few hardshell suitcases that will fit the small underseat carry on bag allowance but they do exist. Like Cabin Max, Flight Knight are a company that have noticed a need for luggage that fits exact requirements and so you can opt for one of their suitcases which is the exact size for Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyjet.

The case has an anti-scratch water resistant outer shell and comes with a three-digit combination barrel padlock for added security. It also has a five-year warranty. If space is important to you, do note that the Ryanair sized suitcase is only 16L – meaning you miss out a huge 4L compared to many of the soft bags! However, what you lose in packing ability, you absolutely make up for in comfort and ease. CD

Paul Richardson

Amy Abrahams

CNT Editors

VMIKIV Underseat Carry On Bag

Most small carry on bags have quite a practical look to them, and yet this bag could easily pass as a casual day bag as well. I really liked that it was double lined, with several pockets on the inside and out, and I was surprised to find a padded laptop sleeve inside too – my 13” laptop fit in with plenty of room to spare. Other perks include the reinforced handles, a shoulder strap and a strap across the bag that allows you to slot your suitcase handle through it should you be travelling with that too.

The only drawback is that whilst it states it’s the same size as others, I couldn’t fit as much in as the other bags I tested. However, it’s a great option if you’re packing light and need a daily bag to carry your laptop around in too. CD

Lossga Convertible Cabin Bag

I think this bag is a great compromise between style and function. It looks good while having several pockets, a suitcase handle sleeve, reinforced handles, a shoulder strap and even one ‘wet pocket’ for storing damp items – perfect if you fancy one final dip in the pool before coming home.

However, the real standout feature of this bag is a little zip at the bottom that makes the bag even bigger. Try not to overfill the bag though, as it can get quite bulky in its bigger state which means you could struggle to fit it into the baggage sizer if asked. My top tip is to measure your bag once it’s full just to double check. CD

• Extended Size: 45 x 36 x 20 cm
• Fits on: easyJet - but don’t fill it to the brim!

Take Off Personal Item Suitcase

One of the major downsides of using a suitcase is that the wheels take up a lot of space, so what if there was a suitcase where you could detach the wheels?! This is exactly what Take Off have created, meaning that many travellers have already hoodwinked airline staff by quickly removing the wheels on their cases before being asked to prove its size. CD

• Size: 45.7 x 35.6 x 20.3 cm (18 x 14 x 8 inches)
• Fits on: The dimensions are a fraction of a cm over the allowance for easyJet (45 x 36 x 20 cm) however there is a photo on the Take Off website showing that it fits in the easyJet baggage sizer. I definitely wouldn’t overpack this case.

Central and Eastern Europe

Mediterranean region, the middle east.

Check out our top destinations .

Information & Services

CARRY-ON BAG

Allowance: Onboard

Wheels: Allowed/Not mandatory

40 x 30 x 20 cm*

TROLLEY BAG

55 x 40 x 23 cm*

FOR PURCHASE WITH WIZZ PRIORITY

CHECKED-IN BAG

Allowance: Checked

MAX. 10KG, 20KG, 26KG OR 32KG

149 x 119 x 171 cm*

FOR PURCHASE

When flying with WIZZ, each person can bring:

• One free Carry-on Bag (max. size 40 x 30 x 20 cm, 10 kg), which should be placed under the seat
• Another, bigger carry-on bag - we call it a “Trolley Bag” (with or without wheels) - which you get when you add WIZZ Priority.
• Up to six pieces of checked-in baggage (20KG, 26KG OR 32KG), which can be purchased online on wizzair.com, via call center or at the airport. Out of the six pieces of checked-in baggage one piece can be 10KG, which can be purchased online on wizzair.com, via call center or at the airport.
• Duty-free items purchased at the airport following security screening.

WIZZ Priority

Take two bags onboard: one over-head/one under the seat.

If you purchase WIZZ Priority service (or you are entitled to WIZZ Priority with WIZZ Privilege Pass, WIZZ GO or WIZZ Plus bundles), you are entitled to bring with you a free Carry-on Bag (max. size 40 x 30 x 20 cm * ) and an extra “Trolley Bag” (max. 55 x 40 x 23 cm * ; with or without wheels, but must remain within size, weight limits). It is guaranteed you can bring both bags with you into the cabin area, unless it is impossible due to operational restrictions.

Passengers without WIZZ Priority

One carry-on bag for free.

Passengers are entitled to travel with one free Carry-on Bag (max. size 40 x 30 x 20 cm*). If you do not purchase WIZZ Priority and your Carry-on Bag exceeds these dimensions, you will be charged an oversize fee at the airport.

Additional items on board

You can take the following items on board free of charge:

• a coat or blanket
• mobile phone
• reading material for the flight
• for children younger than two: food for the duration of the flight and a foldable baby stroller or a small crib (can be taken until the aircraft door or steps)
• a pair of crutches for physically disabled passengers

Purchasing baggage allowance

Purchase extra baggage, during or after your booking, on your flight summary page!

• alternatively, purchase during the online check-in process up to three hours before departure. You can also pay at the airport when you arrive, but fees will be far higher. We recommend booking online if you can.

Size and weight

Your checked-in baggage cannot be larger than:

• Width: 149 cm
• Height: 119 cm
• Length: 171 cm

Checked-in bag types:

• 10 kg checked-in bag
• 20 kg checked-in bag
• 26 kg checked-in bag
• 32 kg checked-in bag

You can check in up to 6 pieces of checked-in luggage. Wizz Air is introducing a new type of checked-in bag with a weight allowance of 26 kg, besides the available 10 kg 20 kg and 32 kg options. You can check in a maximum 1 bag of 10 kg, 6 bags of 20 kg, 6 bags of 26 kg or 6 bags of 32 kg. Other combination of checked-in bags is not possible to purchase online.

Turn your hand luggage into checked-in baggage!

If you need more space, you can add checked-in baggage to your booking by paying a baggage fee. You may add up to three items of checked-in baggage online and another three items at the airport.

• purchase the checked-in baggage when you book your flight
• alternatively, add a checked-in bag on your flight summary page up to three hours before departure

It is possible to travel with a lot of luggage.

• check in up to six items of luggage per flight – with baggage fees applied to each separate item
• pay for the first three items online, and if you have more, you can pay for the rest at the airport

At certain airports, the relevant baggage fee may only be paid using a credit or debit card:

• Paris Beauvais (BVA)
• Cologne (CGN)
• Donetsk (DOK)
• Dortmund (DTM)
• Grenoble (GNB)
• Haugesund (HAU)
• Kharkiv (HRK)
• Kyiv Zhulyany (IEV)
• Kristiansand (KRS)
• Malmo (MMX)
• Milan Malpensa (MXP)
• Stavanger (SVG)
• Trondheim (TRD)
• Oslo Sandefjord Torp (TRF)
• Moscow (VKO)

Please make sure that you do not carry any of the following items in your checked-in baggage:

• cash, securities
• jewellery, precious metal, precious and semi-precious stones
• computers, cameras, video cameras, mobile phones or other electronic appliances and their accessories
• official, business or private documents
• travel or other identity documents
• pieces of art and fine art
• perishable items

If the checked-in baggage contains any of the above listed items, WIZZ cannot be liable for any loss, damage or delay.

Some airports may have further restrictions on items that can be carried in the hand luggage and/or in the checked-in baggage. In such cases, the airport’s regulations prevail.

Restricted items

For health and safety reasons, we can't bring items on board if they are:

• likely to endanger the aircraft, persons or property
• likely to be damaged during transportation by air
• unsuitably packed items
• forbidden by any applicable laws, regulations or orders of any state to be flown from, into or over
• not suitable for carriage because of its weight, size or any other unusual characteristics
• likely to cause discomfort or disgust to those on board
• firearms, ammunition and explosives including weapons of hunting or sporting purposes
• any items or substance that looks like a firearm, ammunition or explosive
• flammable substance (except: alcoholic beverages, hair spray, perfume, cologne)
• radioactive materials
• condensed gas (except: CO2 used for moving artificial limbs; containers of inflammable gas used for self-inflating lifejackets);
• poisonous or infectious substances
• corrosives (except: mercury in thermometers, barometers and in wheelchair batteries)
• briefcases and security type attaché cases with built-in alarm devices, lithium batteries or pyrotechnical material
• items and materials that endanger safety, property, life, health and bodily integrity of those on board
• any material that is forbidden under the rules and regulations of the countries affected by the carriage
• any item that is not suitable for carriage because of its weight, size or any other characteristics
• remains of human bodies
• any glue or paint
• any items specified in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations

If you've packed any of these items, we may not be able to check in your baggage. If you still have questions, just ask us before you pack!

It is the passenger’s responsibility to respond to all requests from security authorities if required. If a piece of baggage is not transported because the passenger failed to fulfil requests from security, Wizz Air will not be held responsible for any associated cost.

For everyone's safety, all of our flights follow these government-imposed restrictions on liquids in cabin baggage:

• the liquid is in a container with a maximum volume of 100ml
• all liquid containers meeting the maximum volume of 100ml can fit comfortably into a transparent, resealable, 1 litre plastic bag measuring 20 x 20 cm
• the plastic bag should be presented separately at security
• any liquid not meeting the requirements listed above will be disposed of at airport security, so please take care when packing your hand luggage

Transport your sporting equipment with WIZZ for an additional sporting equipment fee! The following items can be transported:

• ski, snowboard, surf equipment, golf bags packed in a pouch
• jumping poles can only be accepted for carriage if packed in textile sacks
• bicycles packed in a bicycle travel case with the wheels and pedals removed and handlebars turned parallel or packed in cardboard, provided that the tyres are deflated
• diving equipment with empty diving cylinders, removed power source or bulb switches secured in the "OFF" position
• antlers and trophies with a valid veterinary certificate 

Please note that we cannot provide packaging material. Make sure you pack your sporting equipment in accordance with the above-mentioned requirements. If it is not properly packaged, we won’t be able to transport it.

Special declaration

1. Wizz Air offers you the option of setting higher liability limits for your checked-in baggage (here referring to baggage not the items included in the baggage).

2. If you want make the special declaration for higher liability limit, You need to fill in the High Value Declaration form and pay the applicable fees incurred which will increase the carrier's liability limits to the declared value but will not exceed the maximum amount of 2500 EUR (equivalent of approx. 2010 SDR) per checked-in baggage. The applicable fees are available at wizzair.com

3. High Value Declaration form shall be filled and handed over to the check-in desk agent and the applicable fees shall be paid at the airport. High Value Declaration form is available here , it is possible to at home and fill it in before arrival to the airport. The form is also available at the check-in agent desk.

4. High Value Declaration is not possible at self-baggage drop kiosks.

5. A High Value Declaration form will be only accepted after verification by airport agent on-site. Wizz Air reserves the right to check the declared item prior to departure.

6. In the event of a damage or a loss of baggage, you need to follow the procedures as for all baggage according to the General Conditions of Carriage. For more information please read Missing and Damaged baggage.

7. Wizz Air General Conditions of Carriage apply for baggage carried with High Value Declaration, provided that in respect of liability, it is limited to the declared value but will not exceed the maximum amount of 2500 EUR (equivalent of approx. 2010 SDR) per checked-in baggage.

8. In case of more than 1 checked-in baggage declared as High Value Item a form has to be filled in separately for each of checked-in baggage.

9. In the event of a damage/claim you will need to provide proof of value (purchase receipt) for mentioned item.

10. A High Value Declaration is valid for one continuous flight journey in one direction. In case of return flights, a High Value Declaration forms needs to be filled in for both flights separately.

11. In the event of damages, Wizz Air will reimburse the costs of repair for the affected baggage. If the baggage is irreparable, Wizz Air will reimburse you for the fair market value up to the amount stated in the High Value Declaration Form. The fair market value shall be the replacement cost of the items minus depreciation for age and normal wear and tear.

Pets are not permitted on board, except for guide dogs. Don’t forget to pack your guide dog’s required travel documents: these will need to comply with the regulations of the countries you’re visiting.

Emotional Support Animals are not accepted on Wizz Air flights.

You can bring a musical instrument case on board which has a maximum length of 80 cm. Other dimensions of the case must not exceed 40 x 23 cm.

• the musical instrument can be taken on board only if you have WIZZ Priority purchased to your booking, which will allow you to take the musical instrument instead of the trolley bag
• examples of such instruments are violins, violas, flutes, clarinets, trumpets, ukuleles
• the musical instrument case should be placed in the hand luggage sizer: width & depth must fit and height should be less than approximately 1.5 times the allowed height
• the small musical instrument is your cabin baggage and no other piece can be carried on board
• the musical instrument must be placed in the overhead compartment
• musical instruments that do not fit the above dimensions and cannot be transported as checked-in baggage can be carried on an aircraft seat after purchasing the seat
• a reservation can also be made online: enter “EXST” in the First Name field and the passenger’s surname in the Last Name field
• for safety reasons instruments carried on extra seat in the cabin cannot be placed in emergency exit rows and first row, and they must be placed on a window seat
• instruments larger than a cello (e.g. double bass, harp, etc.) must be checked in with a “Limited Release” tag.

Limited Release tags

Damaged, fragile, bulky, inadequately packed, late check-in and oversized baggage will only be accepted for carriage with a Limited Release baggage tag. Wizz Air cannot accept liability for such items.

Diplomatic baggage or any type of baggage with a sealed lock must be accompanied by a diplomatic courier during the whole journey and must be declared as diplomatic baggage. The diplomatic baggage must always be carried as non-checked-in baggage irrespective of its size, special characteristics and the required special handling procedure. 

If the size or characteristics of the diplomatic baggage does not allow its carriage in the cabin, it can be carried in the baggage hold, but it will be considered as unchecked baggage, because we cannot take responsibility for it. In this case the courier should be present during the entire loading and unloading process of the diplomatic bag, as he/she is held responsible.

Whether or not a lithium battery can be carried by air depends on its Watt-hour (Wh) rating (for lithium-ion, chargeable batteries) or its lithium content in grams (for lithium-metal, non-chargeable batteries).

When carrying consumer electronic devices (watches, calculating machines, cameras, mobile phones, laptop computers, camcorders, etc.) containing lithium or lithium ion cells or batteries, spare batteries must be individually protected to prevent short circuits (by placement in original retail packaging or by otherwise insulating terminals, e.g. by taping over exposed terminals or placing each battery in a separate plastic bag or protective pouch) and carried in cabin baggage only.

Don’t put spare batteries in your checked-in baggage!

In addition, each installed or spare battery must not exceed the following:

• Lithium metal or lithium alloy batteries cannot contain more than 2 grams of lithium.
• Lithium ion batteries cannot have a watt-hour rating of more than 100 Wh.

Lithium ion batteries exceeding a watt-hour rating of 100 Wh but not exceeding 160 Wh may be carried as spare batteries or in equipment in cabin baggage only, after the approval of Wizz Air.

No more than two (2) individually protected spare batteries with watt-hour rating between 100 and 160Wh may be carried per person.

Ashes can be carried on board as long as they are safely packed in a suitable container. The death certificate and the cremation certificate must be presented at the airport. Ashes can only be carried as cabin baggage.

In the unlikely event that your baggage is missing, damaged or delayed, you can file a report upon arrival at your destination.

• visit the “Baggage Claim” or “Lost Luggage” desk in the transit area, where we can help you fill out a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) straight away
• if the baggage is not found within 21 days of reporting it at the destination airport, Wizz Air will be liable for loss
• we cannot be liable for baggage misidentified by another passenger – all cost is the liability of the passenger involved

To return mishandled baggage to its owner as soon as possible, all baggage items must be marked with the passenger's name, initials and address before check-in.

Checked-in baggage will, whenever possible, be carried on the same aircraft as its owner. For safety or operational reasons, the checked-in baggage might be carried on an alternative flight. In these cases, Wizz Air cannot be liable for the delay of the baggage.

Damaged baggage

We take liability for damage in the following ways:

• if it was impossible to recognise the damage or pilferage of your baggage upon arrival, you can report it at the airport within seven days of your arrival
• if the baggage does not arrive with your flight and it is delivered damaged or pilfered, you can make a report in writing within 21 days after the delivery of the baggage
• report damage to your cabin baggage (including clothing) on board or before leaving the transit area
• Please note that the passenger is liable for damages to baggage that already existed before the baggage was checked in, for example, broken zippers, frayed wheels, or torn material due to overpacking. In such a situation, the handling agent accepting the baggage at the airport will mark the damaged baggage accordingly.

Repair and reimbursement

In the event that your baggage is damaged upon arrival, please visit the “Baggage Claim” or “Lost Luggage” desk in the transit area, where we can help you fill out a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) and provide you with the necessary information regarding your options to repair your baggage or receive compensation. Please follow the instructions on the leaflet provided by our representatives at the Baggage Claim Desk for your repair service options:

Repairs and replacement of bags (if the bag is beyond repair) in the United Kingdom are carried out by First Flight (www.damagedluggage.com). Damaged baggage claims not processed by First Flight will not be accepted.

Please contact First Flight on the telephone number +44 (0) 1279 813 000 or visit the website Damagedluggage.com (Multi Lingual Live Chat available in all languages) to arrange for the collection of your damaged bag. First Flight will invoice Wizz Air directly for the cost of the repair or replacement. Email- [email protected]

Baggage repairs or replacements are carried out by „Javítóház Bt.”. Your baggage will be repaired within 10 days or replaced immediately if it is damaged beyond repair. If your final destination is outside Budapest, you can send your baggage and will receive your repaired baggage or a new one by post, free of charge. In order to arrange for a free of charge repair or replacement please send the PIR, the baggage tag and boarding card to our partner.

Javítóház Bt.

1082 Budapest, Harminckettesek tere 6/a. Phone: +3613130552

E-mail: [email protected]

Repairs and replacement of bags (if the bag is beyond repair) in Poland are carried out on our behalf by PS. Services. PS. Services will invoice Wizz Air directly for the cost of the repair or replacement.

PS. Services e-mail: [email protected]

In Poland, you may also decide to contact an independent provider to repair your bag or to obtain a professional opinion about the baggage being unrepairable. Please note that in such event, you will bear the cost of repair or replacement and Wizz Air will reimburse you based on the receipt or professional opinion containing the estimated value of the damaged baggage.

Repairs and replacement of bags (if the bag is beyond repair) in Bulgaria are carried out on our behalf exculsively by SvetlaBags. Damage baggage claims not processed by SvetlaBags will not be accepted.

If your final destination is outside Sofia, you can send your baggage and will receive your repaired baggage or a new one by post, free of charge.

In order to arrange for a free of charge repair or replacement please send the PIR, the baggage tag and boarding card to our partners. SvetlaBags will invoice Wizz Air directly for the cost of the repair or replacement.

SvetlaBags phone number: +359(0)876256424, +359(0)898510310

E-mail: [email protected]

In other countries

Please arrange for your baggage to be repaired, obtain a receipt and we will cover the costs of the repair. If your baggage is beyond repair you shall obtain a written confirmation from the repair shop, including indication of the type and value of your baggage.

Submitting claims and complaints

Claims can be submitted in writing to the Wizz Air Claims Division or to your insurance company if you are claiming directly.

To help us process your claim quickly, please enclose a copy of the Cabin Report or Property Irregularity Report provided to you on board or at the airport when you made your report for delay, damage or pilferage. Please also provide your contact and bank account details where indemnity (if any) can be transferred to.

Complaints can be sent to Wizz Air Customer Relations by submitting a complaints form .

WIZZ offers the following amenities to those flying with small children to make your trip more comfortable:

• Extra personal item on board (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
• Free priority boarding for 2 adults (and unlimited number of kids) per one travelling infant*
• A foldable baby stroller or a small foldable travel cot free of charge (will be loaded in aircraft hold)
• Seat selection to make sure that your whole family sits together (for an extra fee)
• WIZZ Café -snacks and drinks onboard for purchase
• WIZZ Boutique selection, including toys and small gifts
• Free car seat on board for infants only if you purchase an additional seat ( take a car seat onboard )

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can take the following personal items on board free of charge: a coat or blanket, mobile phone, reading material for the flight; products from duty free shops; for children younger than two: food for the duration of the flight; a pair of crutches for physically disabled passengers.

The trolley bag will be placed into the cargo hold free of charge andyou can collect it at the baggage belt at the arrival airport.

Yes, if your carry-on bag is exactly the size of, or smaller than 40 x 30 x 20 cm, max. 10 kg you can bring it into the cabin without purchasing WIZZ Priority. The carry-on bag should fit under the seat in front of you.

For passengers without WIZZ Priority and with a carry-on bag, which exceeds 40 x 30 x 20 cm, an oversize bag fee will be charged at the gate. In case such bag does not exceed 55 x 40 x 23 cm, the bag can be taken onboard, assuming there is space in the cabin overhead compartment. In case there is no space, the bag will be taken to the aircraft cargo hold. Passengers can remove their personal items from bags going to the cargo hold.

For passengers whose trolley bag dimensions exceed 55 x 40 x 23 cm or 10 kg in weight, an oversize bag fee will be charged at the gate. The bag will be put into the aircraft’s cargo hold.

Yes, each passenger is entitled to one free carry-on bag up to the size of 40 x 30 x 20 cm on board (e.g laptop bag, women purse and a small backpack) under the seat

If you need more space, you can add checked-in baggage to your booking by paying a baggage fee. You may add up to 3 items of checked-in baggage online and another 3 items at the airport. Please note that one passenger can have only one type of luggage on one flight (example: 1 luggage x 10 kg,2 luggages x 20 kg/each, 3 luggages x 32 kg/each)

Yes, the adult travelling with the infant is entitled to bring an extra free carry-on bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm).

Yes, if a passenger purchased WIZZ Priority (or is entitled to WIZZ Priority via the WIZZ GO or WIZZ Plus bundles), both the free carry-on bag (max. size 40 x 30 x 20 cm) and trolley bag (max. 55 x 40 x 23 cm; no wheels necessary, but must remain w/in size, weight limits) can be brought into the cabin area. This is permitted in all cases unless prohibited by exceptional operational circumstances.

All passengers are entitled to bring one free carry-on bag on board of max. size 40 x 30 x 20 cm, into which you can place all of your personal items. We recommend that all passengers take out their essentials from their checked-in bag(s) and bring them into the cabin.

If WIZZ Priority service is sold out we recommend that passengers purchase one of our “bundle fares” during booking, add a checked-in bag to their booking, or pack smart and only bring a smaller carry-on bag only (max. size 40 x 30 x 20 cm). All non-priority passengers are still entitled to bring on board one free carry-on bag of max. size 40 x 30 x 20 cm.

The carry-on bag should be placed under the seat in front of you, unless there is still space in the overhead compartment after boarding is completed.

You can check in up to six pieces of baggage.

Each item is subject to a fee – up to three items can be purchased online, the remaining three can be purchased at the airport for a higher fee. If you booked less baggage during your initial reservation, you can add more later online or via the Wizz Air Call Centre .Please note that one passenger can have only one type of luggage on one flight (example: 1 luggage x 10 kg,2 luggages x 20 kg/each, 3 luggages x 32 kg/each)

No. If you check in fewer items of baggage than you had paid for, the baggage fee will not be refunded.

It is possible to add baggage to your booking through our website and the Wizz Air Call Centre . Please note that if you purchase your baggage at the airport, you may be required to pay an additional fee to the agent at the airport, as well as the baggage fee. Accurate information on the additional rates charged by the handling agent can be enquired at the airport.

Our basic fare excludes any checked-in bags, but both WIZZ GO and WIZZ Plus fares have checked-in baggage included in the price of your flight.

Unfortunately it’s not possible to check in two different types of bags. Please add another heavy bag instead of the light one!

No, each passenger is entitled to one free carry-on bag up to the size of 40 x 30 x 20 cm on board.

If you purchase the WIZZ Priority service (or you are entitled to WIZZ Priority with WIZZ Privilege Pass, WIZZ GO or WIZZ Plus bundles) you are entitled to bring with you a free carry-on bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm) and an extra trolley bag (55 x 40 x 23 cm; no wheels necessary, but must remain w/in size, weight limits). Both of the bags will be guaranteed to travel with you in the cabin area (unless it is not possible due to operational reasons).

We recommend all passengers to take their essentials into the cabin (such as personal hygiene items, passports and other documentation) and valuable items, such as jewelry, phones, cameras.

Laptops and portable electronic devices must be taken with you into the cabin.

Passengers may travel with one free carry-on bag (maximum size 40 x 30 x 20 cm) which should be taken into cabin area and placed under the seat.

If you purchase the WIZZ Priority service (or you are entitled to WIZZ Priority with WIZZ Privilege Pass, WIZZ GO or WIZZ Plus bundles) you are entitled to bring with you a free carry-on bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm) and an extra trolley bag (55 x 40 x 23 cm; no wheels necessary, but must remain w/in size, weight limits). Both of the bags will be guaranteed to travel with you in the cabin area, unless it is not possible due to operational reasons.

If your hand luggage went to the hold and it was stolen or damaged, you can report your damaged/lost items upon your arrival at the Lost Luggage/Baggage Claim desk. We cannot compensate you for the loss of valuable items (items excluded from the hold) such as jewellery and laptops. We recommend you remove these items from your bag before giving it to the hold.

We sell snacks and drinks on board, however, if you would like to take your own food, we recommend you remove it from your bag before giving it to hold.

Liquids carried in cabin baggage are subject to the following government-imposed restrictions:

• the liquid must be in a container with a maximum volume of 100ml
• all liquid containers must fit comfortably and must be carried in a transparent, re-sealable 1-litre plastic bag, measuring 20 x 20 cm.
• The plastic bag should be presented separately at security.

You will be required to dispose of liquids which do not meet the above requirements at the airport security station.

We recommend all passengers to bring their essentials into the cabin (such as personal hygiene items and medicines). In case you did not purchase WIZZ Priority and checked-in your hand luggage you might take out personal items and bring them into the cabin.

When carrying medication in a liquid form, please check the safety regulations for carrying liquids on board. In cases where you need to carry essential medications, such as insulin, you will need to have a medical certificate with you confirming that you need the medication and present this document at the airport security if required.

Please note that our cabin crew cannot help you keep your medication refrigerated.

Animals cannot travel on Wizz Air flights, except for guide dogs travelling with their owners holding the documents set out in the regulations of the Countries Affected by Carriage and complying with the conditions.

Please note that You need to inform us about your intention to travel withan assistance dog, through the Wizz Air Call Centre .

You need to inform us about your intention to carry any special items at the time of reservation, through the Wizz Air Call Centre . Such items can only be carried with our consent.

If you fail to report the carriage of special items, we may deny the carriage and/or we will not be liable for any loss, destruction, delay of and damage to such items.

Please check our list of items excluded from carriage in our General Conditions of Carriage (Article 14.3)

Complete a damage report when you arrive before leaving the transit area. Repair your baggage and obtain a receipt. We will cover the costs of the repair against this receipt.

If your baggage is beyond repair, ask for a written confirmation from the repair shop, which includes the type and value of your baggage. You will be given a letter with instructions when reporting the issue at the airport; please follow these closely.

Go to the Lost Luggage / Baggage Claim desk while still in the transit area and ask for help. Our handling agent will give you a report regarding the delay of your baggage, which can be used for insurance and claim purposes if necessary.

Make sure that the value of your baggage is indicated in the report. You will be given a reference number which you will need to indicate in all correspondence you have with us. You will be given a letter with instructions upon reporting the issue at the airport. Please proceed accordingly.

Please immediately contact the Lost & Found offices at both of the departure and arrival airports.

Yes, you can bring them. In case you did not purchase WIZZ Priority and checked-in your hand luggage, we recommend all passengers to take out their essentials from the hand luggage and bring them into the cabin (such as personal hygiene items, medicines, passports and other documentation) and valuable items, such as jewelry, phones, cameras.

The maximum dimensions of all personal items together should not exceed 40 x 30 x 20 cm.

Passengers may travel with one free piece of hand luggage. If your hand luggage is smaller than 40 x 30 x 20 cm, you may take it into the cabin but it must be placed under the seat in front of you.

In case you did not purchase WIZZ Priority and checked-in your hand luggage you can not bring an additional small bag into the cabin. We recommend all passengers to take out their essentials from the hand luggage and bring them into the cabin (such as personal hygiene items, medicines, passports and other documentation) and valuable items, such as jewelry, phones, cameras. The maximum dimensions of all personal items together should not exceed 40 x 30 x 20 cm.

Yes, but only in case you did not purchase WIZZ Priority and your hand luggage exceeds 40 x 30 x 20 cm, you must check it in at the check-in desk for an extra charge and you can collect it at the baggage belt at the arrival airport. If your hand luggage is smaller than 40 x 30 x 20 cm, you can take it into the cabin but it must be placed under the seat.

Yes, You are allowed to take your ski/snowboard equipment as a checked in baggage. An additional tax of 30 EUR per passenger per flight and per bag will apply.

No, You can bring only one set of sport equipment per passenger and per flight.

No, You can bring your ski/snowboard equipment packed in a pouch. Please note that we cannot provide packaging material.

No, unfortunately there is a limitation for sport equipment per flight. Therefore we suggest that You add this kind of baggage to your reservation at the time of creating it.

We are not liable for damages to fragile items as a result of carriage. Baggage containing fragile items may be carried as Checked Baggage only with Limited Release Tag.

Yes, You can add such equipment up to 3 hours before departure online or via theWizz Air Call Centre. If You request to add such equipment via the Wizz Air Call Center a transaction fee will be charged as well.This Call Centre Transaction fee is not refundable.

You can take one set/piece of sport equipment as follow:

• Snow skiing and snowboard equipment;
• Bicycle - packed in a bicycle travel case with the wheels and pedals removed and handlebars turned parallel or packed in cardboard, provided that the tires are deflated;
• Golfing Equipment;
• Diving equipment – please be aware to observe the following requirements:

o The diving tank is empty;

o The pressure inside the tank is ambient;

o The power source or bulb has been removed from lamp;

o The switch of lamp has been secured in the “Off” position;

• Pole vaults – they must not exceed the following dimensions and must be packed in textile sacks:

o Width – 0.25 metres;

o Height – 0.25 metres;

o Length – 5.309 metres;

• Surfboard and windsurf equipment;

OTHER sporting equipment, not listed above can be transported after approval of Wizz Air. Please make sure to call our Call Center at least 72 hours before departure.

Unless otherwise stated, sporting equipment must not exceed the maximum dimensions of:

• Wight – 1.499 metres;
• Height – 1.194 metres;
• Length – 1.715 metres;

The sporting equipment may not weigh more than 32 kg.

Yes, You can take the whole set of equipment, but you should put everything in one pouch. The maximum weight of it is 32 kg and there are no restriction for the dimensions. If it is not properly packaged, we won’t be able to transport it.

Yes, you are allowed to take an avalanche backpack with you either as cabin or as a checked-in baggage, but it cannot be taken as sport equipment. Please be aware of the dimensions of the allowed baggage for which you can find more information here: https://wizzair.com/en-gb/information-and-services/travel-information/baggage#/ . Please be aware of the following limitations, when taking an avalanche backpack with you:

• Cartridge of pressurized air – it is allowed only if non-flammable gas is used
• Carbon dioxide and Helium - allowed
• Electric fan – subject to battery type and capacity, lithium-ion battery limitations as per the info here: https://wizzair.com/en-gb/information-and-services/travel-information/baggage#/

As an airline we accept following maximum sizes of the item carried when buying an extra seat option: 66x44x75 or 18x48x117 cm. Exact size depends on the shape (prism, conic, cylinder, elliptical). You can always confirm the size accepted by contacting our call center agents.

For final confirmation before your travel please contact your departure airport to verify if the object will be allowed through airport security screening. There might be specific limitations (in the appearance, the packaging or the size of the item) that may require additional arrangements for screening with the local airport authority.

{{ $t('flights') }}

• {{ $t('search-flight') }}
• {{ $t('flight-status') }}
• {{ $t('timetable') }}

{{ $t('booking') }}

• {{ $t('find-booking') }}
• {{ $t('check-in') }}
• {{ $t('add-service') }}

{{ $t('language') }}

• {{ selectedLanguage }}

Ship Your Luggage Ahead

The smart, fast, and easy way to travel., featured in.

What Can I Ship?

Ship your luggage, golf clubs, skis, snowboards, and more, worldwide luggage shipping, we pick up from your home, office, hotel, or anywhere you're staying., the best way to ship luggage, affordable prices, luggage shipping starting at $34.99, complimentary insurance, your luggage is always in good hands, white-glove customer support, we’re eager to assist you, reduce airport touchpoints, travel safely on every trip, unrivaled convenience, shipping luggage has never been easier, how shipgo works.

Skip the airport hassle and breeze through bag-check and baggage claim when you ship your luggage ahead. Arrive at your destination to find your baggage already there.

We've got you covered

From our dedicated customer service team to our on-time guarantee, we make it easy to ship your luggage ahead.

Luggage shipping reviews

We make traveling stress-free like it's supposed to be. But, don't take it from us. Here's what our customers are saying.

Latest News In The Travel World

Check out the latest travel tips, news, and reviews on the ShipGo blog.

Top 10 Budget-Friendly Beach Vacations in the U.S.

Looking to take the kids to the coast this summer? With hundreds of stunning public beaches across the nation, a budget-friendly beach vacation is surely within reach. While you may think “crowded” and “overpriced” when it comes to a beach vacation, we’ve found the top spots with affordable accommodations, beautiful beaches, and tons to do...

The post Top 10 Budget-Friendly Beach Vacations in the U.S. appeared first on ShipGo Blog: The New Way To Travel .

April 11, 2024

5 Ways to Pass Time During an Airport Layover

Traveling via air is a lot of hurry up and wait. Rush to your gate only to wait for hours to board. Rush to board only wait for another hour to depart. And for those with a connecting flight, a layover or two means even more waiting! So, why not put a positive spin on...

The post 5 Ways to Pass Time During an Airport Layover appeared first on ShipGo Blog: The New Way To Travel .

April 09, 2024

5 Best Lake Vacations in the U.S.

The beauty of a lake vacation is that it can be enjoyed any time of year! Whether it’s flying down Lake Tahoe’s snow-covered slopes or enjoying a glass of wine on the shores of the Finger Lakes, the options are truly endless. Read more about the best lake vacations in the U.S.! Best Lake Vacations...

The post 5 Best Lake Vacations in the U.S. appeared first on ShipGo Blog: The New Way To Travel .

April 05, 2024

Customer Service

We love to travel and know you do, too. That’s why we are dedicated to providing you the travel experience you deserve. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions. Our customer service team is available 7 days a week via phone, chat, or email.

(800) 604-7021

[email protected]

Mon-Fri:  8AM - 8PM EST

Sat:  8AM - 5PM EST

Sun:  9AM - 6PM EST

Quick Quote

Create new account.

Email already exists. Click here to Sign in or reset your password .

Mobile phone is Invalid

Please complete the reCaptcha

Forgot your password?   Click here to reset it

Confirm phone number to continue

Get in touch.

Please enter it below to continue registration.

Call or Text: 800-604-7021

Please click to accept terms, enjoy 15% off your first order.

Join for FREE & receive access to exclusive offers, travel tips & more.

Thanks For Subscribing!

You will receive an email shortly with your exclusive offer., oops... you're already subscribed.

Stay tuned for our upcoming promotions, travel tips, and more.

Buy extra baggage allowance

How to buy extra baggage allowance.

Your standard baggage allowance depends on your route, class of travel, fare type, and Emirates Skywards membership tier. You can buy extra baggage allowance online for less than you would pay at the airport. You can also use a combination of Cash+Miles to bring down the amount of cash you need to pay for your excess baggage. Otherwise, in most cases you can pay for extra baggage allowance at the check-in desk in the local currency, or through your local Emirates office at current exchange rates.

You can buy extra baggage allowance on adult and child tickets, but not on infant tickets. Tickets must be issued by Emirates (our ticket numbers start with 176) and flights must be operated and marketed by Emirates. Check the terms and conditions for more details.

Save when you buy extra baggage allowance before you check in

We offer special discounts when you buy additional baggage allowance online or at any of our retail or contact centres. To buy your extra baggage allowance online, log in to Manage your booking using your booking reference number. You can check the fees and pay by credit card in the same currency you used to buy your ticket up to four hours before your flight.

Buying allowance at the airport or through Emirates offices

You may need to give yourself some extra time at the airport if you think your baggage may be over your standard allowance.

Please note that we may not have the facility to accept cash or debit card payments at selected airports. Customers should be prepared to make payment for ancillary services using a credit card.

Adding additional weight

If the baggage allowance on your ticket is based on weight (known as the Weight Concept), you can purchase additional kilograms (kg).

With the weight concept, you can check in as many bags as you like as long as the total weight does not exceed the maximum weight for your class of travel. Each individual bag must weigh less than 32kg and the total dimensions (length + width + height) of an individual bag should not exceed 300 cm (118 inches) or 215 cm (84.64 inches) for travel from Dammam International airport.

Buying additional weight before you check in

Get a discount of 50% to 60% on the check-in amount if you buy baggage in advance. The more you buy the greater the discount.

• Discounts are only available online or at our retail and contact centres up to 4 hours before departure.
• You can buy extra baggage allowance in blocks of 5kg, up to a maximum of 50kg.

For example:

If you travel from London to India, you would get a 50% discount on the fee for an extra 5kg, and a 60% discount for an extra 20kg.

Buying additional weight at the airport

All rates are in US dollars per kilogram.

*$15 per kilogram for travel between Larnaca and Malta

Regional classification

Adding additional pieces

If the baggage allowance on your ticket is based on the number of pieces, you can purchase additional pieces online, at any of our offices, or at the airport. To find the number of pieces already included in your allowance, please check your ticket or go to Manage your booking. The weight allowance for each additional piece is 23kg in Economy Class, and 32kg in Business Class and First Class.

Prices shown in USD per additional piece if you purchased your ticket on or after 21 December 2020 and for tickets issued on/after 9 August 2021 for journeys into Africa.

Buy extra pieces before you check in

Get a discount of 35% to 50% on the check-in amount if you buy baggage in advance, except for travel to or from Canada. The more you buy the greater the discount.

• You can purchase up to five additional pieces of baggage on top of the standard allowance for your ticket.

If you travel from Nigeria to Sydney you would get a 50% discount on the previous fee for an extra five pieces of luggage.

If you travel from North America to Cape Town you would get a 35% discount on the fee for an extra two pieces of luggage.

Buying additional pieces at the airport

These are the prices in USD and CAD for each additional piece if you purchased your ticket on or after 21 December 2020.

Charges for oversized and overweight pieces

If you’re travelling with the allowed number of pieces, but these pieces exceed the total size and weight limits, the following fees apply:

The prices shown are in USD and CAD per additional piece.

If you have purchased additional pieces of baggage on top of your standard allowance, and these exceed the size and weight limits, the following would be the cost per additional piece :

If you purchased your ticket before 21 December 2020

The prices before 21 December 2020 are:

• USD 200 for tickets from or to the Americas
• USD 200 for tickets with journeys originating from Africa.

Buying extra baggage online

Up to five of the additional pieces can be purchased online at discounted rates. Online discounts per passenger are:

• 50% for the first additional piece if you are travelling in Economy Class
• 20% for any other additional piece

If you are travelling with the allowed number of pieces, but these pieces exceed the total size and weight restrictions, the following fees apply:

Prices are shown in USD per additional piece.

Terms and conditions

Emirates reserves the right to deny acceptance of any additional excess baggage purchase at check-in, for safety and operational reasons.

Read more about our excess baggage terms and conditions .

Discover more

• Before You Fly
• Buy extra baggage for your flight