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

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

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

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

Luggage Size Chart

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

Measuring Luggage

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

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

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

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

Hand Luggage

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

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

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

Carry-on Luggage vs Personal Items

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

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

Personal Item Size and Weight Requirements

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

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

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

Carry-on Size and Weight Requirements

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

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

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

Domestic Carry-Ons vs International Carry-Ons

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

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

Hand Luggage Fees

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

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

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

Read Next : 12 Best Underseat Bags Without Wheels in 2022

Hand Luggage Advantages and Disadvantages

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

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

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

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

Tips for Buying Hand Luggage

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

Read Next: Airport Travel Terminology 101 – The Ultimate Guide

Checked Luggage

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

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

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

Checked Luggage Size and Weight Restrictions

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

Small vs Medium vs Large Checked Luggage

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

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

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

Checked Luggage Fees

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

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

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

Checked Luggage Advantages and Disadvantages

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

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

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

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

Tips for Buying Checked Luggage

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

What Size Luggage Should You Get?

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

Are You an Over-Packer?

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

How Long You’ll Be Traveling?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Size Luggage I Use Personally

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

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

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

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

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

Also check out: Airplane seat upgrades

Frequently Asked Questions About Luggage Sizes

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

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

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

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

What’s the largest size for hand luggage?

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

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

What are the 3 luggage sizes?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What if my checked luggage is oversized?

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

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

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

What if my checked luggage is overweight?

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

Do carry-on measurements need to be exact?

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

Should I get hard or soft luggage ?

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

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

Should I get a rolling or spinner suitcase ?

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

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

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

How much luggage can I bring on international flights ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final Words

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

This post is also available in: English

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Airline Carry-on Luggage Size Restrictions: What You Need to Know

The vacation countdown is almost over, and it's time to get packing. Before you print that boarding pass and set your out-of-office message , though, it's important to conduct a bit of research to avoid any hiccups at the gate — especially with your cargo. Though many travel rules vary depending on what region of the world you're heading to or from, carry-on luggage size limits remain a consistent, steadfast metric for the vast majority of airlines.

Sure, you might occasionally be able to sneak onboard with a bag that's a bit oversized or overweight, but it's always smarter to plan ahead. To ensure you get from point A to point B smoothly, choosing the best carry-on luggage to fit the fine print will make for less travel stress. Skip the Googling and follow this guide to know what size suitcase to bring on your next trip — no TSA bargaining, pleading, or, worst of all, last-minute checking required.

To get started, let's begin with these frequently asked questions.

What size is carry-on luggage?

Though you might find an inch or two of a difference with various airlines, the standard domestic carry-on luggage size is 22" x 14" x 9", which includes the handle and the wheels. This size limit ensures your bag — and ideally everyone else's — will be able to be stored safely in the overhead bin for your flight. By far, the biggest benefit of traveling with carry-on luggage is being able to transport your belongings yourself without entrusting them to the airline and hoping they'll arrive at your destination on time and in one, undamaged piece.

What is the weight limit for carry-on luggage?

For many major domestic airlines — think: Delta, Southwest, JetBlue — there are no weight restrictions for carry-on bags. You'll just have to be able to lift it above your head into the storage bin. And in most cases, even if airlines do list a specific pound or kilogram limit on their websites, they likely won't weigh your carry-on bags. As long as your pack doesn't appear to be overstuffed, you're probably OK. Weight is much more important for small commuter planes, mostly due to safety regulations.

T+L Backpack Recommendation Quiz

Packing tip.

Looking to create even more room in your carry-on? Try using vacuum-sealed storage bags — you can buy them at Amazon.

What is a personal item?

In addition to your carry-on suitcase, many airlines also allow a personal item. This can be a laptop bag , a purse, a briefcase, a beach bag — whatever you like, as long as it is generally small. Personal item restrictions vary by airline, and some choose not to include any specifics at all. In those cases, the general rule of thumb is an item smaller in dimension and weight than your carry-on bag. For families flying with a travel stroller or diaper bag or those traveling with uncommon additions like a wedding dress or an instrument can rest assured that most carriers will let you bring these along with your carry-on luggage and your personal item, but we recommend you contact the airline in advance to confirm this.

What is the best carry-on luggage?

As with any travel gear, everyone has a different opinion on the best luggage brands , but the best buy for you is ultimately the one that suits your needs as a traveler. If you're constantly on the road, invest in a durable bag that can keep up. If you take one or two vacations a year, you can go with something more affordable. These days, you don't have to stick to legacy brands to get a quality suitcase. Many up-and-comers offer some really solid options whether you prefer softside or hardside luggage , two-wheel rollaboards, or hassle-free backpacks . Before you buy, take note of the dimensions in comparison with the airlines you prefer to fly to be sure you're shopping on the safe side.

What is allowed in a carry-on bag?

What you pack in your carry-on bag is regulated, as well. In addition to the same rules that apply to checked bags, which prohibit firearms, lithium batteries, and other potentially hazardous items, you must be mindful of liquids when packing your carry-on luggage. Regardless of your destination, you cannot bring containers of liquid, paste, aerosol, gel, or cream larger than 3.4 ounces through security. Make sure to check the specific rules of your carrier, too, so you won't be forced to throw anything away at the gate.

What is the standard international carry-on size?

To be sure your bag is accepted on all carriers, you'll want to get a suitcase that stands at 21'' or less. It's especially smart to look into luggage size restrictions when you're flying with smaller, regional airlines outside of the U.S. as each is able to set its own limits.

Keep reading for some more airline-specific information.

Alaska Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 22'' x 14'' x 9''
• Carry-on luggage weight maximum: not specified
• Personal item: one personal item such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag

Allegiant Air

• Carry-on luggage size: 22'' x 14'' x 9''; fee applies ($10-75)
• Personal item: 7'' x 15'' x 16''

When booking with a budget airline, it's imperative to read the fine print. In most cases, when the low fare seems like steal, traveling light is the only way to keep it that way. With Allegiant, your personal item is free, but there's a fee for your carry-on.

American Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 22'' x 14'' x 10''
• Personal item: 18'' x 14'' x 8''; must fit under the seat in front of you

American Airlines' fares include both a carry-on and personal item, even in Basic Economy.

Delta Air Lines

• Personal item: one purse, briefcase, camera bag, or diaper bag

There are three exceptions:

Singapore, Singapore Changi International Airport (SIN): 15 pounds or 7 kg

Beijing, Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): 22 pounds or 10 kg for domestic travel

Shanghai, Pudong International Airport (PVG): 22 pounds or 10 kg

Frontier Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 24'' x 16'' x 10''
• Carry-on luggage weight maximum: 35 pounds
• Personal item: 8'' x 18'' x 14''

Hawaiian Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 45 linear inches
• Carry-on luggage weight maximum: 25 pounds
• Personal item: one purse, briefcase, laptop bag, backpack, or similar piece; must fit under the seat in front of you
• Carry-on luggage weight: None specified
• Personal item: 17'' x 13'' x 8''

There's a reason JetBlue has such a cult following: not only does it give guests more legroom, but it alleviates a bit of the carry-on luggage size limit stress, too. Though the carry-on size restrictions are the same as most airlines, the personal item dimensions are larger.

Southwest Airlines

• Personal item: 18.5'' x 8.5'' x 13.5''; must fit under the seat in front of you

Another generous airline, Southwest's personal item and carry-on size limits are spacier than most.

Spirit Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 22'' x 18'' x 10''
• Personal item: 18'' x 14'' x 8''

United Airlines

• Personal item: 17'' x 10'' x 9''; must fit in the seat in front of you

Suitcase 101: How to Choose the Right Travel Luggage

Best Suitcases , Packing , Packing Tips

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If you’re wondering how to choose the right travel luggage, we’ve put together a helpful guide to get you started. Get ready for Suitcase 101 on choosing luggage!

Packing cubes  are the secret to traveling carry-on only. Watch  this video  to learn why!

Tips for Choosing Luggage

Table of contents.

Let’s be honest: as wonderful as it is, traveling can be stressful. Here at Travel Fashion Girl, we aim to make your adventures as calm and hassle-free as possible. A sure way to decrease drama while traveling is to ensure you’re using the best travel luggage for your needs.

Whether or not you choose to  travel carryon only , always use  packing cubes  to help you organize and even compress your belongings to maximize your space.

The following guide–with handy tips from industry experts–will assist you in choosing luggage or “portable wardrobe” for your exciting adventure.

The secret to traveling light is to create a functional but minimalist capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

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Why Travel with a Suitcase?

Suitcases versus backpacks is a popular debate in the passionate travel community. This article is all about suitcases, so here are a few reasons why choosing luggage rules over backpacks :

• Personal convenience : Suitcases win hands down for their ease. You’ll hardly break a sweat easily maneuvering it through the airport.
• Wheels: It’s all about the wheels! It’s kind of satisfying to roll your suitcase with ease, secretly (smugly) watching fellow travelers buckle under the weight of their backpack. This convenient feature gives a major edge to the suitcase.
• A Sweat-Free Back:  Need I say more?
• Health : Not everyone is physically able to lift a suitcase or carry a backpack due to health issues. Read these tips on traveling with a bad back.
• Organized Packing: Nothing’s worse for travel organization than a top-loading backpack. Having a clear view of all your belongings when you unzip your suitcase is priceless. Find out how to choose the best luggage organizers .
• Safety: Hard cases have many benefits for durability and safety. Here are a few more tips on how to  keep your valuables safe  while traveling.
• Professionalism : A suitcase offers a more professional image when traveling for business (and at luxury hotels). Here are a few  business travel essentials .

Ask yourself: “ Where am I going and how am I getting there?” Olivia Hulett of Ricardo Beverly Hills suggests keeping these two questions in mind when choosing a suitcase: selecting the right case for the destination and length of your trip is essential.

To learn the pros of traveling with a backpack, please read: How to Choose a Travel Backpack !

Delsey Luggage Helium Aero 25 Inch Expandable Spinner Trolley

Factors to consider when choosing luggage

Consider the items you plan to bring. This will help you determine the ideal features for your suitcase, which will help you when choosing luggage.

Backpackers may want straps or pouches for sleeping bags, tents, hiking poles, etc. Business travelers might want a bag with an easily-accessible laptop and electronics compartment. Fashionistas might appreciate straps that hold clothes in place and reduce wrinkling.

Determine if you’ll be checking your bags, dealing with difficult terrain, or if your travel is for business purposes.

If a suitcase makes sense for your trip, these are the factors you should consider when choosing a suitcase:

• Luggage Size
• Luggage Features
• Luggage That’s Durable
• Luggage with Safety Features
• Luggage Based on Price

Keep reading below as we elaborate on each of these factors for choosing luggage.

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Choosing Luggage Size

Size is an important factor when choosing luggage; no one wants a suitcase that is too big for them to physically manage–what a nightmare!

Here are some general guidelines to consider:

• Jacquie Whitt, co-founder of Adios Adventure Travel , notes that the overall size of the bag should be limited to what you can handle, since there may be times when no one is around to help you lift and maneuver it.
• Also, be sure to check the luggage allowance of all the airlines you’ll be traveling with. Different airlines have different size requirements, so don’t get caught unprepared.
• It’s key to consider the allowed weight of your luggage, too; the lighter the case the more you can pack/souvenirs you can bring home!
• It’s a good idea to test your suitcase before you travel. Check that the handle is long enough for your height, that the feel of the fabric suits your needs, and that it’s robust and hard-wearing enough for your journey.
• If you plan to order your case online, do it well in advance so you can return it and search for another if it doesn’t feel right.
• Ideally, we recommend that your travel suitcase measures 22” x 9” x 14” or less. This is small enough to fit into the overhead compartments on most  airlines. Note that US domestic carryon size is larger than European carryon sizing. Choose an “international” carryon like these to be sure.
• As a general rule, opt for a carryon no larger than 45” (length + width + height) and a checked bag no larger than 62”, which is standard for most US airlines.

Here are the best carryon suitcases for traveling Europe !

Suitcase Sizing Guide

You should be able to travel carry-on only for all trips of any length. I’m a full-time traveler and I do! If I can travel in a carryon for more than four months at a time, you can, too. This is how I do it!

• 18 – 20” International Carryon:  Considered the international carryon size, this is ideal if you’re using budget European airlines  like easyJet or Ryanair. They have incredibly strict rules. Read my story! Here are the best international carryon luggage !
• 21 – 22” Domestic Carryon:  This is the most popular size of carryon luggage and we guarantee you can travel anywhere with a suitcase this size.  Find out how! Here are more carryon luggage for travel !
• 23 – 24” Medium Checked:  The size is perfect for travelers who aren’t quite ready to travel carryon and need just a little extra room. If you’re traveling with another person, it might be a better investment to just take one 25-27″ suitcase for both of you as mentioned below.
• 25 – 27” Large Checked:  Generally, this is the most popular size of luggage to check as it has lots of room. Ideally, you would use this suitcase size if you wanted to check one bag for two people. If you’re traveling with a family, then you can also fit everyone’s belongings into one or two of these suitcases for easy handling as opposed to the oversized suitcase below that isn’t as easy to maneuver.
• 28 – 32” Extra Large Checked: These are very large suitcases with a huge capacity. Due to their size, they could be too awkward and bulky for standard trips. Be warned, they might exceed size and weight restrictions. Here are the best lightweight checked luggage for your next trip!

Unless you’re planning to move abroad or will be in a single location for an extended period of time, you should never use a suitcase that’s over 27″. By carefully planning your travel wardrobe using these guidelines , you’ll always have exactly what you need.

Also, keep track of your baggage weight, especially if you’re using a suitcase over 25″ where it’s easy to pack unnecessary items because you have more space.

Many airlines limit you to 30kg / 50lb for checked luggage. Use a portable luggage scale to prevent overages before you arrive at the airport.

Read my guide on how to stop overpacking  and learn how you, too, can travel carryon only.

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Choosing Luggage Features

Today’s suitcases come with a wide variety of cool features that affect transportation, packing, and protection. One thing to keep in mind is that the more bells and whistles there are, the heavier the bag!

Need to  pack for a 7kg baggage allowance ? A minimalist suitcase is key! If your goal is to pack light, try to choose a suitcase that weighs less than 5lb or 2kg like this Delsey Trolley or my personal favorite, the  Osprey Ozone .

Here’s a quick guide to understanding various suitcase features:

Select a bag with a recognizable color or print so it can be easily spotted on the luggage carousel and not mistaken for someone else’s bag. Try and stay away from white/cream; it’s more likely to get dirty.

You can also buy luggage straps to easily identify your suitcase.

Piggy Back Clip

A looped clip on the top of the bag, known as a piggy back clip, allows you to clip a second bag to the larger one–bonus! If your suitcase doesn’t have one, you can buy an attachment like this one .

You have two choices when it comes to wheels: two or four. Suitcases with two wheels tend to be lighter but have the risk of tipping over if they’re not balanced. I find these easier to wheel if I’m running through the airport and they’re also easy to yank over a curb to maneuver uneven streets like in the scenario shown here .

On the other hand, four wheels will stand upright, plus they are easier to pull sideways on a plane without hitting all the passengers as you find your seat.

The con is that they won’t stay put unless they have a locking system like the sophisticated Chatelet by Delsey . Love that suitcase! It’s stylish and functional, too.

Telescoping Handles

A rolling suitcase is much easier to manage since you pull the weight instead of carrying it. Make sure your case’s handle is sturdy and easily retractable.

Before committing to a suitcase, walk with it to make sure it doesn’t hit you on the heels as you walk. It shouldn’t drag too far behind you, annoying other travelers. You might also appreciate a padded handle for comfort.

I prefer a single handle because it helps minimize luggage weight but some travelers prefer a double handle because they find it sturdier.

Expandability

Do you ever notice that your stuff tends to “grow” when you’re returning home from a trip? Nothing ever seems to fit. Find out why here .

An expanding suitcase is great for this, but be warned: expanding your suitcase may mean it no longer fits in the overhead bin and you could be charged to check it. However, for those of us that love to shop for souvenirs (guilty!) then this is a good option.

Alternatively, you can buy a packable bag  to bring home souvenirs, too!

Compartments

Pockets and compartments are a useful feature to help organize all your belongings; for example, keep your 3-1-1 liquids bag in an external pocket so it’s easy to locate at the airport. Take a look at how I organize my suitcase . Even TSA was impressed!

Security Locks

Whether they have zippers with space for a travel lock or they have an internal locking system, never buy a suitcase you can’t lock.

Read more travel safety tips .

Waterproof Materials

One of biggest tips for choosing luggage is making sure it has water-resistant materials or has been treated with a moisture-resistant sealant on the inside to help keep your belongings dry. This works in the rain and also if baggage handlers lay your bag on dirty, wet, or sticky surfaces.

Jane Attard, CEO of BusinessKnowHow.com , suggests that you line the top and bottom of the suitcase with plastic, like a dry cleaning bag. That way, even if your suitcase does get wet, your clothing can stay dry.

Suitcase covers help keep your suitcase clean and long lasting. I highly recommend them!

Side Handles

Top and side handles make maneuvering your luggage much easier, especially when you need to lift it to place it overhead on the plane or other transportation.

Choose luggage with strong, durable handles that will withstand the weight of your belongings. This is also a good reason to pack light–you need to be able to lift your own suitcase up several flights of stairs, especially in Europe!

Tie-Down Straps

These stretchy, adjustable straps are great for helping you compress your belongings when everything’s in your suitcase. They also keep your personal belongings securely in place.

Tip: Pack your suitcase the night before your trip to allow things to settle overnight.

You don’t necessarily need to spend hundreds of dollars to have a quality suitcase. However, the suitcase should be well-made and able to withstand the roughness of travel. Depending on your activities, destination, and travel style, your needs will vary.

Productivity and health coach  Marcey Rader says, “High-quality luggage is a necessity. You’ll regret buying a ‘good enough’ bag when you are running down the terminal with your suitcase flopping along and then your handle breaks!

A quality piece of luggage is important because it can last a lifetime. Travel is stressful enough without having to worry about your suitcase.”

That’s exactly what happened to me on a two-week trip to Europe. My friend took a cheap, massive 32″ suitcase to Europe and the handle broke the second day of our trip. Because she had overpacked, I had to carry it for her because she had back issues.

Packing light also helps if you have back problems! Read these tips.

I was NOT happy dragging a broken, heavy suitcase around Europe for almost two weeks. Do you know how many flights of stairs you encounter? Now imagine only spending 2-3 nights in one city then moving on to the next, trying to cram in as much sightseeing as possible. Don’t let this happen to you.

Delsey Luggage Chatelet 21″ 2.0 Carry-On Spinner

Choosing Luggage That’s Durable

Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing luggage and finding one that will last you:

Soft versus Hard Shell : soft bags are great if you plan on using your luggage as a carryon, because they are easier to squeeze into overhead lockers and can be lightweight. They are also said to absorb shock better than hard shells. Here are the best soft-side luggage according to TFG readers!

The argument for hard-sided luggage is that it protects your belongings better. These are the best hard-side luggage for women !

Whichever you choose, look for quality–lousy soft luggage can tear and cheap hard cases can crack or break.

I’ve used both and like the hard shell for regular vacations whereas I use a soft shell bag for long-term travel.

A broken handle is common when luggage is being thrown around at the airport. If you’re budget conscious, choose a two-bar handle that is sturdier than a one-bar in cheap luggage.

However, if you’re investing in a quality brand, then one handle is okay. It will be lighter, too.

Jacquie Whitt, of  Adios Adventure Travel , notes that four wheels glide easier than two. The wheels should be high quality, similar to skateboard wheels. Hard plastic wheels are more likely to crack or break when dropped. (I’ve had this happen while roaming the streets of Paris while hunting for my hotel!)

Zippers leave luggage susceptible to water damage from rain. Opt for hard cases with a latch system to avoid this. If you choose a suitcase with zippers, select pulls crafted from tough metal or durable plastic.

Osprey Ozone Wheeled Global Carry-on 21.5″/42L | Also available here

Choosing Luggage with Safety Features

The best way to keep your luggage safe is to have  travel insurance to cover a loss. Only pack valuables in your carryon luggage if you can keep an eye on it.

Adding security features to your luggage is a good idea, too. Make your case less accessible to thieves by investing in sturdy and durable travel locks, cable ties, and shrink wrapping. Be warned, though: expensive-looking security mechanisms can scream, “VALUABLES INSIDE”!

It’s better to be safe than sorry: never pack valuables in a checked bag. Always keep them in your carryon or preferably your personal item.

Read these tips on how to choose a “personal item” !

Here are a few safety mechanisms to consider when choosing luggage:

A  trusty lock  is guaranteed to at least slow down a thief or put them off all together.

A cheaper alternative to locks, these theft deterrents are easy to install and come in a variety of colors, meaning your suitcase can be easy to spot. However, cable ties can be quite easily removed with a simple nail file.

Shrink Wrapping

Many airports now feature a shrink wrap station. Costing around $10 a pop, it’s a great way to deter people from slipping illegal items into your case or stealing from your bag. It’s also great for waterproofing your luggage!

Safety Tips

• Invest in travel insurance that covers lost or stolen baggage.
• Keep all valuables and travel documents in your hand luggage so you can keep an eye on them at all times.
• Include a waterproof label on each piece of luggage with your up-to-date contact information (not your home address–this could highlight the opportunity of an empty house to thieves). If your case is lost, it has a greater chance of being returned to you quickly. And don’t forget to remove tags from previous trips!
• Check your luggage as soon as you land, that way you can quickly contact the airline and your insurer if anything is missing.

Read more about safety in this post: Money Belts and the Best Anti-theft Travel Accessories .

Kenneth Cole Out of Bounds Hardside Spinner Luggage

Choosing Luggage Based on Price

Travel luggage can be expensive. If you’re a long-term traveler, keep in mind that this isn’t just an average suitcase, it’s about to become your portable wardrobe for the duration of your travels. You need luggage that will last.

Price generally reflects quality. Search around for the best reviews from experienced travelers and opt for a case that suits your style of travel. Many times, expensive bags will include a warranty of some kind.

Christina Ernst of VIP Alpine Tours/VIP Travel   suggests steering clear from designer luggage, as it becomes more of a fashion statement than a quality choice for extreme traveling. You’re guaranteed to look stylish wheeling your Louis Vuitton through the airport, but not dragging it through the tropical terrain of Asia; designer cases are also more susceptible to thieves.

Suitcase Shopping Tips

• Visit websites like  REI, Sierra Trading Post , eBags , and Amazon to shop around and compare features/prices.
• Visiting a physical store will allow you to test the bag before purchasing. This way you can determine which style, size, and brand suits you the best.
• If you are online shopping, order your case well in advance so you can return it if it’s not suited to you. Look for a retailer that offers free returns, like  eBags . You can order several cases to see which you prefer, returning the others free of charge. Amazon also offers free returns on some items. They’re my preferred place to buy luggage as they tend to have the best prices.
• Sign up for email updates from online retailers to receive discount offers.
• Shop seasonal sales to get the best bargains.

For even more tips, read this smart luggage buying guide !

Compass Rose Compression Packing Cubes

Final Tips for Choosing Luggage

We recommend bringing along a lightweight luggage scale  to weigh your cases before going to the airport. This will ensure you are below the weight limit and avoid extra charges.

Also, use packing organizers such as packing cubes  to help you simplify your packing process.

Watch the packing tutorial on  Youtube !

In 2017, I launched Compass Rose Travel Accessories and my very first product was a  4-Piece Set of Carryon Packing Cubes . These are the only packing cubes  sized to fit the exact width of a carryon suitcase  and they also have a  unique color-coded and numbered organization system  – the only kind currently available anywhere on the market.

I put together a  five-part YouTube series  showing you the different methods to use packing cubes. If you use  this  specific packing strategy, they can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carryon only!

What are your tips when choosing the right travel luggage? Share and comment below!

 Read these posts for suitcase recommendations:

• Top 20 Recommended Luggage Brands
• Best Carryon Suitcases
• Best International Carryon Suitcase for Women
• Best Lightweight Checked Luggage
• The Best Luggage Sets
• Weekender Bags

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44 comments.

Choosing the right travel bag is a personal decision that depends on your travel style, needs, and preferences. Like a fashionista 😀 I really prefer my travel bag to be in style too. I buy all my bags from Louenhide but my travel bag is my favorite. I bought this travel bag in color-blush Ezra https://www.louenhide.com.au/products/alexis-weekender-travel-bag

After reading this article, I purchased a new TravelPro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner in the 22″ size. I got the purple color so it would stand out in case I do end up having to check it. I love all the fashion tips too. 🙂

What about duffel bags that don’t roll? I dislike backpacks, and I worry that a wheeled bag could induce me to pack excessively. What recommendations do you have?

Hi Bobby, for duffle bags that don’t have wheels here are some recommendations from the TFG community: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-duffle-bag/

And if you’re worried about overpacking, had you considered using a lightweight backpack instead: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-ultralight-backpacks/

Hope this helps you in your search!

Thank you for this! My cheap hard sided checked suitcase broke on my last trip. Fortunately the liner prevented my things from spilling out, but I will need to replace it before my next trip!

Thank you so much for all the helpful tips. I went to London, Scotland, and Ireland this summer and used packing cubes for the first time. What a life saver.

Thanks for all the great information!

I’m starting to prepare for a trip so this article was very helpful. Both my husband and I need to buy new luggage. Thank you!

I love your travel tips! Especially the packing cube advice! Because of you I’m biting the bullet and taking a carry on or a 16 day tour of Croatia, Slovenia and Italy! I know I can do it! (thanks to all your great advice!!)

Nice article. Thanks

So glad you enjoyed it! ?

Hi, do the clothes crinkle when you pack them like that (in the how to use packing cubes…) or does it stay folded and you don’t have to iron them?

Hi Hailey, if you’re worried about your clothes becoming wrinkled in a packing cube check out this post for our readers top tips on how to avoid them: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-pack-clothes-without-wrinkles/ Hope this helps! ?

Thanks Alex for the fast and helpful reply! 🙂

Has anyone tried putting their carry on luggage on the floor in front of their seat? Is this allowed, what sort of luggage could I use. I am a short person and find it very uncomfortable not being able to put my feet on the floor for hours at a time. Could I use my case under my feet.

Hi Yvonne, thank you for reaching out. Many of our readers like to use their luggage which fits under the seat or a backpack to lean and rest their feet on. You could use something like this: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-under-seat-luggage/ I would also highly recommend that you join TFG’s free facebook community and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous group of helpful female travelers that have the best packing advice and recommendations to share. Hope this helps answer your question. Happy travels! ?

If I’m going on a 2 night and 3 day trip to Washington DC, what size suitcase do you recommend.

Hi Hannan, thank you for reaching out. You may find our 10 step guide to packing for a short break a good place to start: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/weekend-packing-list/ Maybe something like one of these: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-under-seat-luggage/ Also you don’t mention if you are traveling with someone else, but you may also find this video helpful for ideas: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGH-iwFf_1U&t=13s I would highly suggest that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there about luggage for a few nights away: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and recommendations to share. Hope this helps. Have an amazing time! ?

I LOVE my Delsey hard sided suitcase. I bought it last minute for a trip and can’t believe I didn’t do it sooner. It’s light, it spins so great (yes, I spend a great deal of time spinning it because it’s fun), and it comes in great colors. Don’t let the salesperson try to talk you into their choice of color, go for the one you want!

I forgot to add, watch for sales. I got mine at Macy’s for 65% off and they do have regular sales.

Hi Sally, thank you for sharing your recommendation for the Delsey hard sided suitcase. For international and domestic travel, I like the Delsey Turenne. You may enjoy this video where I explains why I like the Delsey Turenne: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bbTGS6YUoE Hope you enjoy your suitcase on many fun and exciting adventures! ?

Is there a hard sided carry-on bag that is not designed with the space divided half and half? I’m looking for a bag that has one deep side ( to fit my GEARPACK) and one shallow side or just a flap. Is there such a thing? Thank you

Hi Liz, thank you for your question! Have a look at this post for some more options for a hard case suitcase: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-hardside-luggage-for-women/ To get you the most feedback, I have gone ahead and posted your question on TFG’s facebook page. Our readers have the best recommendations to share so please keep an eye out for their replies from Friday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/ Hope you find one which is suitable and that you like! 🙂

I’m very late to this thread but did you ever find a suitcase that wasn’t half and half. I like the hard shell but like you I hate the opening of the bag. They don’t fit on the hotel luggage racks and you have to put them on the floor. I’ve just returned from 5 weeks in Europe and the USA and I need a new bag. My bag is now 8 years old and has seen some rough travels.

My daughter is studying abroad for 2 1/2 months to Italy. I bought her an Osprey backpack for getaways but she needs a checked bag. And she’ll probably over pack! Any recommendations would be helpful.

Hi Laurie, to get you the best feedback I have gone ahead and posted your question on TFG’s facebook page. Our readers have the best advice so keep an eye out for their replies from Friday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/ For other options for suitcases, have a look at this post: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/suitcase-recommendations-20-travel-experts-reveal-top-luggage-brands/ For some help planning her packing, take a look at this 10 step guide to packing for Italy: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-italy/ It may be a good place to start. Hope this helps! Hope you daughter has a wonderful time studying in Italy!! 🙂

Going to Cabo for a 7 day trip. What would be the ideal luggage size for 7 days?

Hi Keith, thanks for your question! We’ll share your question here so the author of the article can reply. 🙂

Hi can you recommend a suitcase for travelling for around 3/5 months.

Hi Claudette, thanks for your comment! Take a look at this article on the top luggage brands of 2018: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/suitcase-recommendations-20-travel-experts-reveal-top-luggage-brands/ Hope this helps! 🙂

Hi can u plz tell me… How can I buy trolly by liters in online.. I can’t able to figure out … Plz help me… 20kg means how many liters ??

Hi Manasa, you can look for a converter online like this one: http://www.convertunits.com/from/liter/to/kilo+gram

This article is so helpful. I’m looking at purchasing luggage for an upcoming trip and was wondering if you had any thoughts regarding two wheel vs four wheel luggage?

Thanks! This article might help shed some light on this: https://travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-choose-the-best-luggage-for-travel-abroad-smart-buying-guide/

Forma 30 day trip to Europe (several cities) what size suitcase should I take? Should I take a carry on too? Thanks 🙂

Wow this sounds awesome 🙂 Personally I would do carry-on only for this trip, so a huge suitcase isn’t necessary, but it depends on what you are doing and how much you want to take. Check out these articles for more tips on how to pack for this kind of trip http://bit.ly/29ngSND & http://bit.ly/28U5J65

I like my luggage lock but people please put in a number that is hard to figure out. Most people use the number 1234 and then dont understand how people figure it out. Please dont be unintelligent about it

What about duffel bags of the non-roll kind? I don’t like backpacks and I think a wheeled suitcase might give me too much temptation to overpack. Do you have any suggestions?

Thanks so much

For regular duffles, personally I like having the alternate option of rolling them if they feel heavy after a while. Try checking out the brands suggested as they usually have non rolled versions too: https://travelfashiongirl.com/rolling-duffle-bags-the-best-alternative-to-wheeled-backpacks/

Excellent tips shared. I particularly liked the safety measures which you mentioned in the blog. http://www.ricardobeverlyhills.com/

What is the orange back in the picture? I’ve been looking for a bag like that!

Hi Andrea, it’s just the one from the Stock photo 🙂

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

Caroline Morse Teel

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

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

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

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

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

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

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 15” x 10” x 23”

Weight: 6.4 lbs

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

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

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

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

Dimensions:  9” x 16.25” x 22”

Weight: 7.7 lbs

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 13.75” x 10.25” x 21.75”

Weight: 6.7 lbs

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 23” x 14.5” x 9” 

Weight: 5.4 lbs

Best Luggage Trackers

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 21.65” x 14” x 10”

Weight: 8 lbs 12 oz

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

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″

Weight: 7.5 lbs

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 22.0″ X 16.0″ X 9.0″

Weight: 11.1 lbs

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: 20” x 12.5” x 10”

Weight: 3.3 lbs

5 Simple Ways to Make Travel Easier in 2024

How We Tested These Carry-Ons

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

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

• Size and weight
• Ease of transportation
• Organizational features

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

What Size is a Carry-On Suitcase

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

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

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

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

Is There a Weight Limit for Carry-Ons?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Luggage Sizes Chart: Ultimate Guide to Suitcase Dimensions and Travel Needs

Josephine seale.

Traveling requires thorough planning, especially when it comes to your luggage. Here’s a guide to understanding the common luggage sizes to help you pack efficiently.

Table of Contents

Luggage Sizes Chart

Why Do Luggage Size Limits Matter?

Consequences of exceeding luggage size limits.

Wheels and Handles in Luggage Measurements

Exceptions to common luggage size limits, carry-on luggage size standards, prohibited items in carry-on luggage.

Checked Luggage Size Essentials

Oversized checked luggage fees, how to measure the luggage, oversized luggage consequences.

Packing Techniques

Deciphering luggage sizes: a comprehensive guide.

• Consumer Reports – Luggage Buying Guide ( https://www.consumerreports.org ): This guide is an all-encompassing resource for those looking to understand the world of luggage. From the diverse types of luggage available to nuanced features that can enhance your travel experience, Consumer Reports breaks it down seamlessly. Their emphasis on quality, durability, and value gives a well-rounded perspective. If you’re a first-time buyer or even someone seeking an upgrade, this guide is an excellent starting point.
• American Airlines – Carry-On Baggage Rules ( https://www.aa.com ): This official resource from American Airlines provides concise information on their carry-on baggage regulations. It’s straightforward, user-friendly, and offers clarity on what you can expect when flying with them. While it is specific to American Airlines, it provides a benchmark of what major airlines might expect.
• American Society of Travel Advisors ( https://www.asta.org ): ASTA offers an array of insights, not just on luggage, but on the entire travel spectrum. It serves as a hub for travel advisors, offering insights, news, and guidelines. While it may seem like a deep dive for someone merely looking for luggage guidelines, it offers an enriched perspective for frequent travelers or those looking to understand the travel industry more deeply.

About Post Author

Josephine Seale is the perfect tour guide!

She loves interacting with people of all ages and enjoys escorting individuals or groups on sightseeing tours. Josephine has a professional manner and appearance, and she always maintains a positive attitude.

Her good organizational, critical thinking, and time management skills make her an ideal candidate for this position. In addition, she is able to read, write, and communicate effectively in Spanish.

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Standard Luggage Sizes? – A Guide To Typical Suitcase Dimensions & Average Measurements

Last Updated on February 25, 2021

Did you ever stop to wonder why references to luggage sizes typically only give one dimension?

People talk about a “30-inch suitcase” or “25-inch luggage” but one measurement alone doesn’t tell us how big a suitcase is.

It reminds me how very young kids don’t realize that a tall thin glass doesn’t always have more juice than a short thick glass.

Jimmy is fooled because the tall container just looks bigger to him.

As adults, we know you can’t tell how much juice is in the glass from only the height.

But enough developmental psychology, the point is it’s the same with luggage sizes, to know the capacity of a suitcase you need to know the three dimensions, height, width, and depth.

These measurements are also crucial when it comes to airline size restrictions.

Don’t assume that if a manufacturer calls a suitcase a “checked bag” it is under the airline size limits for checked luggage . Travelers get hit with charges for oversize checked luggage all the time.

The same goes for the “carry on bag” label. It’s pretty meaningless since many bags labeled as carry-on size could land you with the cost of being forced to check it for being an inch too big .

So don’t trust the labels and also don’t assume that the bag with the bigger headline number will hold more clothes when packing.

Average Suitcase Sizes Chart By Type (Dimensions & Capacity)

Luggage manufacturers don’t always count the wheels and handle in their specifications. Airlines do count wheels and retracted handles! So this luggage size chart measures luggage dimensions from the bottom of the wheel to the top of the collapsed handle.

Personal Items & Under-seat Luggage

Personal Items are usually a purse, handbag, briefcase, or laptop bag that is taken on board in addition to a carry-on.

But since low-cost carriers like Spirit, Frontier, and United Basic Economy stopped allowing carry-on bags for free the personal item has become somewhere you might pack your clothes to save money.

Personal items need to be small enough to go under the seat. Check your airline to see what their size limits for personal items are.

A weekender bag often fits under the seat and as the name suggests these are good for 2 or 3 nights away.

But it’s possible to travel for extended vacations carrying only a personal item if you follow our traveling light tips . Basically, you need to pack quick-drying clothes and be prepared to do a bit of hand washing.

International Carry-On Size

If you are traveling internationally then the limit for your carry-on bag can vary tremendously. A good carry-on bag size for international travel is 21 x 14 x 8 inches. These measurements will be compliant with many airlines around the world. If you know the airlines you’ll be using you can check international carry-on luggage size limits before you travel.

Make sure you get a lightweight carry-on if you will be globetrotting. Airlines around the world often have restrictive weight limits for carry-on luggage.

Domestic Carry-On Size

The most common size limit for domestic carry-ons is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Unless you fly exclusively on Southwest there is no good reason to buy a larger carry-on for travel within the US.

Carry-ons are great for business travel, short trips, or weekends away. Taking your luggage into the cabin saves time because you don’t need to wait at the baggage claim carousel.

It’s also easier to make sure your bag doesn’t get lost or valuables damaged if you keep your bag close in the cabin.

However cabin luggage introduces a little stress since space in the overhead bins is limited. Priority boarding helps with this since you get to the overhead lockers before the crowd.

Small Checked Bags

Small checked bags are basically over-sized carry-on bags. Often manufacturers “forget” to count the wheels or a protruding handle. This can mean that a strict airline will force you to check that bag.

Or perhaps you simply prefer the experience of checking luggage. It’s easier to board a flight if you are not worrying about getting your suitcase into the overhead bin.

Medium Checked Bags

The maximum size for checked luggage is often given as 62 linear inches. This means that height + width + depth must not exceed 62 when summed.

People often wonder how medium checked suitcases compare to the larger checked suitcases.

It seems like a reasonable question. How much space does a 25-inch suitcase have compared to a 32-inch suitcase?

But remember the story about the juice. One dimension doesn’t help us determine how big a case is. Taller isn’t always bigger.

The suitcase with the largest capacity for checked luggage would actually be a perfect cube 20.66 inches x 20.66 inches x 20.66 inches. That box would be under the 62 linear inches limit and have a capacity of 144 liters.

This very extra-large 32-inch checked luggage from IT Luggage is exactly 62 linear inches and has a capacity of only 90 liters. That’s a lot less than the perfect cube would be.

So the capacity of the bag doesn’t only depend on how tall it is. Width, depth, and how chunky the bag is matters a lot.

Large Checked Bags

Given the rectangular nature of most suitcases, 32 inches is about as high as they come. The largest checked bags will be in the 28-32 inch range.

A 28-inch suitcase can hold more than a 32-inch suitcase if the width and depth are greater.

Heck a 20-inch suitcase can hold more than a 32-inch suitcase, see the cube above.

With large checked bags in this range, you need to make sure that the sum of the three dimensions does not exceed 62 linear inches .

It’s also more likely that you will hit a weight limit. Penalties can be expensive if that happens so it’s always best to weigh your luggage .

22-inch, 25-inch, & 30-inch Luggage Bag Sizes Visually Compared

I get it. Online shopping is tough and sometimes you just want to eyeball it. Here are 4 common suitcases stood next to two people.

But if you really want to know how big the suitcase is your need to do the math.

Suitcase Size Calculator

Don’t worry, I did the calculations for you!

The model assumes 0.5 inch thickness of the suitcase. It also assumes you need 10 liters for things like your toiletries, your shoes, and laptop.

The remaining capacity is used to figure how many days worth of clothes you will fit into each size of bag depending on the season.

FAQ’s

A standard large suitcase size will be 30 – 32 inches in height. Sum the three dimensions and check they are under 62 to qualify as checked luggage.

Medium checked suitcases are around 25 – 26 inches.

The answer really depends on if you are willing to do laundry or not. If you have no intention of doing laundry and are traveling for many days you’ll need a large checked suitcase. If you are willing to wash clothes quick-drying fabrics can be washed quickly in the evening and will be dry in the morning. You can manage with a small carry-on even on long trips.

A carry-on suitcase can typically hold around 35 – 40 liters.

The size of a 25-inch suitcase depends what the other 2 dimensions are. Use the suitcase capacity calculator on this page to get the capacity in liters.

Multiply the three dimensions to get the size in cubic inches. Then convert cubic inches to liters.

A 28-inch suitcase is the same height as 4.5 dollar bills laid end to end. But you need to know all three dimensions to know how much clothes you’ll be able to pack.

A 62-inch suitcase would be massive, around the height of a teenager. A 62 LINEAR inch suitcase can be many different heights. The sum of the three dimensions needs to be be 62 inches. For example 32 x 20 x 10 inches.

There are 28.3 liters per cubic foot. A large suitcase will be at most 4 cubic feet.

Well… is it hot or cold where you are going? Do you need a different sweater for each day or can you wear the same one twice? Are you only packing clothes or do you need a laptop and 6 pairs of shoes? The size of suitcase you need for 10 days depends on the weight and volume of 1 days worth of clothes. Divide your suitcase capacity by how many liters you think 1 days worth of clothes is.

Will you be wearing shorts or jeans? Are you a size XXL or small? To determine the size of suitcase you will need try to figure what size a bundle of clothes for 1 day will be in liters. Could you imagine 1 days worth of clothes rolled into a 2 liter soda bottle? 14 days x 2 liters would mean you require 28 liters for clothes. Then add on your laptop, your toiletries, and your shoes to get the total capacity you require.

The Verdict

You can’t judge the size of a suitcase on only 1 dimension.

You need to multiply the three dimensions to get an idea of the luggage capacity.

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Luggage shop by size

Airline Cheat Sheet: Chart to US Luggage Size, Weight, and More

Each airline has its own baggage policies, with baggage size and weight allowances changing dramatically from airline to airline. It’s important to understand baggage policies to avoid unexpected fees or discover you have to check your carry-on at the boarding gate. With that in mind, we offer this luggage size chart for the seven major US airlines:

• American Airlines

American Airlines Luggage Size Chart

American Airlines offers three fare options: Basic Economy, Fully Flexible and Business/First Class. Business/ First Class includes 2-3 free checked bags, while Basic Economy and Fully Flexible pay per checked bag. First Class and Business class also have higher American Airlines checked bag weight allowances, and can check bags up to 70 lbs before overweight charges kick in. Click here for a detailed account of  American Airlines carry-on dimensions .

American Airlines Checked Luggage Allowances and Restrictions

American airlines carry-on luggage allowances and restrictions, delta luggage size chart.

Delta charges $20 for your first checked bag unless you are a member of Delta SkyMiles, in which case your first standard-sized checked bag is free. If you're flying domestically, you can redeem miles towards checked luggage fees by checking in through Delta.com, the airport kiosk, or the Fly Delta app. Delta also allows all passengers a free  carry-on bag .

Delta Checked Luggage Allowances and Restrictions

Delta carry-on luggage allowances and restrictions, frontier luggage size chart.

Frontier charges for checked and carry on luggage. The earlier you pay Frontier baggage fees the more you save: A carry-on costs you $59 if you pay when you book the flight, $61 if you pay before online check-in, or $69 if you pay during online check -in. If you wait until you’re at the airline desk, the cost of the same bag is $79, or $99 at the boarding gate.

Frontier Checked Luggage Allowances and Restrictions

Frontier carry-on luggage allowances and restrictions, spirit luggage size chart.

Like Frontier, Spirit carry-on baggage fees go up the longer you wait to pay them. Paying at the time of booking costs $59-$68 if you fly on Spirit’s Standard fare, $62-$71 for paying before online check-in, $63-$72 during online check-in, $89 at the reservation desk, and $99 at the departure gate. Personal items are free.

Spirit Checked Luggage Allowances and Restrictions

Spirit carry-on luggage allowances and restrictions, united luggage size chart.

United has seven service classes, including United Polaris, United First, United Business, United Premium Plus, United Economy, United Economy Plus,  and United Basic Economy. Each service has its own checked luggage policy and carry-on restrictions .

United Airlines Checked Luggage Allowances and Restrictions

United airlines carry-on luggage allowances and restrictions, jet blue luggage size chart.

You can save on JetBlue checked bag fees by paying for bags in advance. If you pay more than 24 hours before your flight departure JetBlue gives you a $5.00 discount on your first two checked bags. If you checked a third bag, fees must be paid at the airport or during check-in.

Jet Blue Checked Luggage Allowances and Restrictions

Jet blue carry-on luggage allowances and restrictions, southwest luggage size chart.

Southwest allows all passengers to travel with two free checked bags, a carry-on bag , and a personal item. The airline does not allow passengers to check more than two bags unless they are active-duty military personnel.

Southwest Checked Luggage Allowances and Restrictions

Southwest carry-on luggage allowances and restrictions.

If you travel on  multiple airlines on a regular basis, opt for carry-on bags designed to meet most airlines size restrictions, such as the Travelpro® Platinum® Elite 21” Expandable Carry-On Spinner or the Maxlite® Air Carry-On Hardside Spinner . Lightweight checked luggage such as the Maxlite® 5 Medium Check-In Spinner helps you get the most out of airline checked baggage weight restrictions.

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The Best Travel Bags for Wherever You’re Headed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Carry-On for Most People

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

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

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On

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

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

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

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

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On

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

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

Best Bag for a Lifetime

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

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

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

Matt Jancer

David Nield

Aarian Marshall

Boone Ashworth

Best Backpack

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

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

Best Convertible Bag

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

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

Best Personal Item

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

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

Best Work Bag

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

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

The Best Hiking Daypack

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

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

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

Best Duffel Bag

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

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

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

The Best Expedition Bag

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

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

Best for Camping

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

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

The Best Aluminum Suitcase

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

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

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

A Good Emergency Go Bag

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

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

Other Bags We Like

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bags We Don’t Like

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

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

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

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

A Few Travel Accessories

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Pick the Right Size Bag

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

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

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

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

When to Remove Battery Banks

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

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

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

Medea Giordano

Nena Farrell

Scott Gilbertson

Adrienne So

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The Best Carry-On Luggage

By Kit Dillon

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

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

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

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

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

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

Everything we recommend

Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner

The best soft-sided carry-on.

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

Buying Options

Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard

A bit more capacity and extra wheel durability.

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

Away The Carry-On

The best hard-sided carry-on.

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

Away The Bigger Carry-On

Slightly more room, but you might get checked.

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

Budget pick

Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Lightweight and appealingly inexpensive.

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

Upgrade pick

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

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

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

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

More room, bigger wheels, less maneuverability.

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

Carl Friedrik The Carry-On

A more luxe hard-sided carry-on.

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

Yeti Crossroads 22″/35L Wheeled Luggage

A bag built for tough conditions.

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

What to consider

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The research

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How the Platinum Elite has held up

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

Flaws but not dealbreakers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Soft-sided carry-on luggage

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hard-sided carry-on luggage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Chris Ryan.

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

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

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

His five-day travel kit included the following:

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

Her five-day travel kit included the following:

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

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

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

Meet your guide

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

Further reading

Wirecutter’s 100 Most Popular Picks in September 2022

by Wirecutter Staff

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

The Best Luggage Tags

by Geoffrey Morrison

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

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

by Kit Dillon

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

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

Travelpro Platinum Elite is our most loyal travel companion.

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2024 Checked Luggage Size Chart and Allowances for 62 Airlines [Dimensions, Sizes and More]

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Founder & CEO

290 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 34 U.S. States Visited: 29

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Countries Visited: 60+ U.S. States Visited: 50

Checked Luggage Allowances by Airline

Can i prepay for baggage, recommended cards that reimburse your baggage fees, checked luggage options.

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With no universal set of rules for checked luggage allowances, you need to review what you’re permitted to bring with you every time you travel in order to avoid excess charges.

Allowances can differ from airline to airline, with some allocating a total weight allowance and some restricting passengers to a specific number of pieces. Airline policies can also vary depending on the route and will nearly always vary based on the cabin you’re traveling in.

Your ticket will give you the most accurate information for your specific flight. If baggage details are not included on your ticket, you can check out our handy table below that details allowances for over 60 popular airlines.

Where available, you can also click the airline name for a more detailed overview of the airline’s baggage policy, including excess charges and frequent flyer allowances.

When talking about baggage allowances, many airlines refer to “maximum linear dimensions” or something similar. This is merely the number you get when you add together the length, width (or height), and depth of a piece of luggage. For example, if you had a suitcase that’s 26 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 16 inches deep, then its linear dimensions are 62 inches, or right at the maximum for many airlines.

Traveling light? We’ve also covered carry-on luggage allowances with a similar size chart.

Your airline may allow passengers the ability to prepay luggage online for less than at the airport. Individual airlines’ baggage policies can be found by clicking the airline name in the preceding table or by visiting the airline’s website.

If you will be paying to check a bag on your next flight, or if your luggage is overweight or oversized, use one of the recommended Capital One cards below so that you can be reimbursed for the cost. Each card detailed allows you to redeem Capital One miles for 1 cent each as a statement credit against travel purchases made in the previous 90 days.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

• 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles per $1 on flights purchased through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
• $300 annual travel credit on bookings made through Capital One Travel
• Unlimited complimentary access for cardholder and 2 guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• 10,000 bonus miles awarded on your account anniversary each year
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
• Add authorized users for no additional annual fee ( rates & fees )
• No foreign transaction fees ( rates & fees )
• $395 annual fee ( rates & fees )
• Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status
• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck ®

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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• Travel Rewards Credit Cards
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Capital One Miles

• Benefits of the Capital One Venture X Card
• Best Ways to Use Venture X Points
• Capital One Venture X Credit Score and Approval Odds
• Capital One Venture X Lounge Access
• Capital One Venture X Travel Insurance Benefits
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• Capital One Venture X vs Amex Platinum
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• Best Luxury and Premium Credit Cards
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• Best High Limit Credit Cards
• Choice Privileges Loyalty Program Review

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card   is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

• 5x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• Access to Capital One transfer partners
• $95 annual fee ( rates & fees )
• Limited elite benefits
• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• How To Find the 75k or 100k Bonus for the Capital One Venture
• Travel Insurance Benefits of the Capital One Venture
• Capital One Venture Card vs. Capital One VentureOne Card [Detailed Comparison]
• Chase Sapphire Preferred vs Capital One Venture
• Best Travel Credit Cards
• Best Everyday Credit Cards
• Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Supermarkets
• Best Credit Card Sign Up Bonuses
• Capital One vs. Citi Credit Cards – Which Is Best? [2024]
• Recommended Minimum Requirements for Capital One Credit Cards

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

The card offers unlimited miles at 1.25x per $1 and no annual fee. When you consider the flexible rewards, frequent travelers come out on top.

Interested in a travel rewards credit card without one of those pesky annual fees? Then say hello to the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card.

In addition to no annual fee, the Capital One VentureOne card offers no foreign transaction fees.

But is this card worth its salt, or is it merely a shell of the more popular Capital One Venture card?

• No annual fee ( rates & fees )
• Ability to use transfer partners
• Fraud coverage
• Weak earn rate at 1.25x miles per $1 spent on all purchases
• No luxury travel or elite benefits
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
• Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
• APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable),0% intro on purchases for 15 months
• No Annual Fee Cards
• Benefits of the Capital One VentureOne Card
• Capital One Venture X Card vs. Capital One VentureOne Card [Detailed Comparison]
• Capital One Platinum Card vs. VentureOne and Venture Cards [Detailed Comparison]
• Best Virtual Credit Cards
• Best Instant Approval Credit Cards
• Capital One Transfer Partners
• easyJet Review – Seats, Amenities, Customer Service, Baggage Fees, & More
• The 5 Best First Credit Cards For Beginners [April 2024]

Hot Tip:  To view more checked bags, check out our article on the best checked luggage bags for travelers .

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does checked baggage have to be a suitcase.

Checked luggage can come in various forms, from hard-shell suitcases to soft duffel bags or backpacks. Passengers can often also check-in boxes or different shaped packages, providing they adhere to maximum size restrictions imposed by the airline.

What is the largest suitcase you can check on a plane?

There are no set restrictions for checked luggage, so airlines define their own baggage policies. A standard size that is seen consistently across many airlines is 62 inches (158 cm) linear. The weight will depend on the cabin, but quite often the maximum weight a piece can be (with or without overweight charges) is 70 pounds (32 kg).

Do checked bags get searched?

Checked baggage is generally screened using scanners so it’s not usually necessary for a physical bag inspection. TSA has the right to search checked luggage if they choose to and will leave a note inside your bag if an inspection has taken place.

Do wheels count when measuring luggage?

Most airlines will count wheels and handles within the measurements, so you should include these when measuring your luggage.

What is considered oversized luggage?

There is no standard measurement for oversized luggage as this is defined by the airline. A common size seen regularly with many airlines (but not all) is maximum linear dimensions of 62 inches (158 cm).

How do I avoid overweight baggage fees?

Be sure to check the policy for your airline, cabin, and particular route before packing your luggage. Use your bathroom scales or a dedicated bag weighing scale. If you find yourself with excessive weight at the airport, try to transfer some items into your carry-on bag.

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About Alex Miller

Founder and CEO of Upgraded Points, Alex is a leader in the industry and has earned and redeemed millions of points and miles. He frequently discusses the award travel industry with CNBC, Fox Business, The New York Times, and more.

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Style Advice – Clothes guides  – The complete guide to luggage

Luggage sizes

Which luggage to take when travelling, cabin sized (19 to 22 inches).

Due to their compact size and easy handling, these bags can be brought on board a train, plan or automobile. They are ideal for use as an overnight bag, with enough room for one or two outfits, toiletries, medications and other personal necessities.

Mid-size (23 to 26 inches)

Perfect for trips that are a week long or less, these bags have to be checked when travelling.

Large (27 to 30 inches)

Ideal for long trips or carrying the belongings of more than one traveller, these also have to be checked. New airline regulations limit individual luggage size to 30″ in length and 62″ total (height + width + depth). The fines for not abiding to the size rule are hefty.

Capacity measurements

These are based on the main compartment inside the suitcase, and are measured in litres. This is best used to simply compare different suitcases as it is difficult to visualise. As a guide, cabin cases have an average capacity of 20 litres, whilst most large cases have an average capacity of 100 litres. If you would like advice on the correct size case for your trip, we would be delighted to help.

Average suitcase sizes

The height measurements are taken from the bottom of the wheels to the top of the case when the trolley handle is down.

Cabin allowance

Joy of Clothes uses the BAA standard cabin allowance guideline for hand luggage, which is 56cm x 45cm x 25cm. This is used by leading airlines such as American Airlines, Iberia and BMI. Budget airlines such as easyJet, First Choice and Ryanair often use a smaller cabin allowance of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. So, it is best to check with your airline for hand luggage cabin allowances.

The information below is to be used as a guide only!

* indicate US weight allowance. You can take 2 pieces

WTH = Size restriction, no weight limit within reason

UNLTD = As heavy as you want, size still applies

Extra pieces in cabin consist of overcoat, umbrella, handbag, laptop bag etc

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Carry-on Luggage and Personal Item Size Limits (2024)

Text Callout : Key Takeaways - Carry-on Luggage Sizes

If you're traveling with carry-on luggage and/or a personal item, you'll need to adhere to size restrictions in the same way you do with checked bags . These rules include the dimensions of your carry-on bag and, in some scenarios, even the weight.

What size luggage is a carry-on?

While carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline, several major carriers go by these dimensions.

Airlines calculate carry-on luggage size measurements using two methods:

• Height by width by depth:  Most – but not all – airlines measure bags by inches or centimeters using this formula: height by width by depth, such as 22 x 14 x 9 inches. (Note: The dimensions listed below, which are given according to that formula, may differ slightly from the way each individual airline formats its size requirements.)
• Linear inches:  A few airlines have linear inch restrictions for carry-on baggage, meaning the airline gives one number for the total of all three dimensions. As long as the combined height, width and depth don't exceed that number, you're in the clear.

Can a 24-inch bag be a carry-on?

Yes, a 24-inch bag can be used as a carry-on suitcase when flying with the following airlines: Frontier, Southwest and Sun Country . However, if you're shopping for new carry-on luggage, it's best to opt for something that meets the requirements for most major airlines (22 x 14 x 9 inches or smaller).

Is there a weight limit for carry-on bags?

Most major domestic airlines do not impose a weight limit on carry-on bags; however, several international airlines have weight restrictions for carry-on luggage and, in some cases, personal items.

Carry-on vs. personal item: What's the difference?

A carry-on bag is typically stored in a plane's overhead bin, while a personal item should fit under the seat in front of you. Most airlines allow economy passengers to bring one carry-on and one personal item – such as an underseat bag – at no extra cost.

Carry-on luggage sizes by airline

Click on the major domestic and international airlines below to see their carry-on luggage size restrictions in inches for economy passengers – and note that any handles and wheels on your bags count toward size limits as well.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - Carry-on Luggage Sizes

Alaska Airlines

See all Alaska Airlines carry-on policies.

Allegiant Air

The fee is often around $20 if you pay for your carry-on baggage at the time of booking; it costs a hefty $45 if you add a carry-on bag later – and up to $75 at the gate.

See all Allegiant Air carry-on policies.

American Airlines

The above rules also apply to basic economy tickets.

See all American Airlines carry-on policies.

Delta Air Lines

Note that if you're flying to or from Beijing or Shanghai, there is a 22-pound weight limit for a carry-on; for Singapore, there is a 15-pound limit.

See all Delta Airlines carry-on policies.

Frontier Airlines

There are two instances where the carry-on bag fee is waived:

• You're an elite member of the  FRONTIER Miles rewards program .
• You bought a specialty ticket like the WORKS bundle.

Also note that carry-on bag fees, which typically start at around $30, depend on your destination, and that prices are cheapest if you add baggage when you make your booking. You'll pay more to add it later, especially if you do so at the airport. Sometimes it's actually cheaper to purchase a checked bag instead of a carry-on.

See all Frontier Airlines carry-on policies.

Hawaiian Airlines

See all Hawaiian Airlines carry-on policies.

If you booked a Blue Basic ticket, you're only permitted to bring a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. If you bring a carry-on bag, you will have to pay $65 to check it at the gate (or up to $180 if you've already checked two other bags). However, select customers with Blue Basic fares can bring carry-on bags for free. These include:

• Active U.S. military personnel
• Unaccompanied minors
• Customers flying to London

If you purchase a higher-class seat or if you reach Mosaic status on JetBlue's TrueBlue rewards program , you can also bring a carry-on bag for free on a Blue Basic ticket.

See all JetBlue carry-on policies.

Southwest Airlines

See all Southwest Airlines carry-on policies.

Spirit Airlines

Spirit's carry-on bag fees vary between flights, but they tend to start at around $25 to $30 for U.S. domestic flights. If you need to bring carry-on luggage, it's always cheapest to pay for it when you first book your flight. It will cost you more to add a bag afterward – and at least double the initial fee if you do it at the airport.

See all Spirit Airlines carry-on policies.

Sun Country Airlines

The Sun Country Airlines fee for a carry-on bag is around $30 if you pay for it when booking, or more if you add it later.

See all Sun Country carry-on policies.

United Airlines

There's one notable exception for carry-on baggage with United: Passengers with a basic economy ticket can only take one personal item on board – no carry-on bag. This policy applies to travelers flying basic economy domestically or between the U.S. and Canada. If you have a basic economy ticket and are going to Central or South America (including Mexico) or taking trans-Atlantic or trans-Pacific flights, you can bring a full-size carry-on bag.

See all United Airlines carry-on policies.

Aer Lingus' carry-on policy depends on where you're flying. For trans-Atlantic flights, you can bring one carry-on bag within the dimensions above, plus a small personal item for free. If you're flying within Europe on Aer Lingus, the rules are a bit different: You'll have to pay a fee to bring a carry-on with you on board, starting at 5.99 euros. However, you can check that same bag for free.

If you're flying Aer Lingus Regional (a service with smaller planes, flying mostly around Ireland and the U.K.), a smaller carry-on limit applies: 18.5 x 13 x 8 inches, with a weight limit of 15 pounds.

See all Aer Lingus carry-on policies.

All Aeroméxico customers can bring a standard carry-on bag and a personal item on board. Be careful with the weight limit, though: For international flights or basic fare flights within Mexico, these two items combined cannot weigh more than 22 pounds. So, if your carry-on bag weighs 15 pounds, for example, your personal item cannot be more than 7 pounds.

See all Aeroméxico carry-on policies.

While there's no weight limit for carry-on luggage, Air Canada says your carry-on bag should be light enough that it can easily be lifted into the overhead bin. Also note that airport purchases (for example, larger duty-free items) count toward your baggage limit.

See all Air Canada carry-on policies.

Note that both your personal item and carry-on bag (referred to as "hand baggage") combined must not weigh more than 26 pounds if you're traveling economy. The weight limit is 40 pounds for premium economy and other higher-class cabins.

See all Air France carry-on policies.

All Nippon Airways

A variety of personal items (think a handbag and umbrella) are permitted as long as they fit under the seat in front of you; this includes any items purchased at the airport.

See all All Nippon Airways carry-on policies.

British Airways

If airline staff put a yellow tag on your bag, it should be stored under the seat in front of you.

See all British Airways carry-on policies.

Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific has shifted from a weight allowance to a piece allowance, and this policy varies by itinerary. Passengers are generally permitted to bring one carry-on bag plus a small personal item (and assistive devices like a walking stick), but it's best to check your booking carefully to confirm the exact allowance. You're asked to check in any baggage that's too heavy to lift into the overhead compartment.

See all Cathay Pacific carry-on policies.

Since easyJet is a budget airline, standard fares only allow customers to bring one personal item (called a "small cabin bag") aboard for free. Fees for standard carry-on bags are between 5.99 and 32.99 British pounds, depending on your destination and when you add an extra bag to your reservation.

See all easyJet carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to all economy passengers except those traveling from Brazil, whose carry-on luggage can weigh up to 22 pounds. Emirates only allows economy passengers to bring one item on board; whether you bring a carry-on bag for the overhead bin or a personal item to tuck under the seat, this bag must comply with the size limits.

See all Emirates carry-on policies.

Be aware that the 22-pound weight limit applies to both your personal item and carry-on combined. If your flight was booked through Iberia but is operated by Vueling, similar rules apply, but the size limits for your carry-on bags are slightly smaller.

See all Iberia carry-on policies.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

If you're traveling on the cheaper Light ticket, you may be asked to check your carry-on bag for no extra cost, if space is limited.

See all KLM Royal Dutch Airlines carry-on policies.

See all Lufthansa carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to LowFare+ customers. Passengers who fly LowFare (comparable to Basic Economy fare) can only bring a personal item (underseat bag) measuring 15 x 11.5 x 7.5 inches.

See all Norwegian carry-on policies.

Qantas 

Economy passengers can opt to bring a nonrigid garment bag measuring 45 x 24 x 4 inches (or 73 linear inches) instead of a standard 22 x 14 x 9-inch carry-on bag. The above rules apply to all economy tickets and vary for higher classes on international and domestic flights with Qantas.

See all Qantas carry-on luggage policies.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways allows passengers to bring multiple personal items provided they fit under the seat in front of you. Unlike with other airlines, laptops and laptop bags do not count as personal items and must fit within your main hand baggage allowance. For tickets issued in Brazil, the carry-on weight limit is 22 pounds.

Be careful: Qatar doesn't accept carry-ons longer than 20 inches, which is shorter than many other airlines.

See all Qatar Airways carry-on policies.

Ryanair is a low-cost carrier, so unless you pay extra, you can only bring one small bag that fits under the seat in front of you, per the personal item guidelines above. To bring a larger carry-on bag, travelers need to purchase Ryanair's Priority & 2 Cabin Bags option, which typically costs between 6 and 32 euros depending on your destination.

See all Ryanair carry-on policies.

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Scandinavian Airlines

Most (but not all) Scandinavian Airlines fares allow you to bring one traditional carry-on bag, plus a personal item, which SAS calls an "underseat bag." There's one exception: Passengers traveling within Europe on the Go Light fare must pay for a larger carry-on bag. If you booked a Go Light ticket for intercontinental flights, a carry-on bag is included.

See all Scandinavian Airlines carry-on policies.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines has an unusual method for measuring carry-on bags – the dimensions of the bag must not add up to more than 45 linear inches total. For example, a bag measuring 15 x 15 x 15 inches would be suitable. All passengers can bring one bag of this size, plus a smaller personal item. The personal item, whose dimensions are specified above, does not count toward the 15-pound carry-on limit.

See all Singapore Airlines carry-on policies.

Turkish Airlines

See all Turkish Airlines carry-on policies.

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic lets every passenger bring a carry-on bag, including children younger than age 2. You can bring a bag weighing no more than 13 pounds for your child, in addition to a collapsible stroller and/or car seat. Each passenger is also allowed to bring a handbag or small backpack, an umbrella, a walking stick and airport purchases. Take note: Laptops do not count as personal items on Virgin Atlantic and should fit into your main carry-on bag. There's no specific size limit on the other personal items, but bags or airport purchases should fit under the seat in front of you.

See all Virgin Atlantic carry-on policies.

Note that the above rules apply to passengers who book a TimeFlex or Premium Fare, as well as anyone traveling with a child under age 2 and/or requiring special assistance at the airport.

See all Vueling carry-on policies.

See all WestJet carry-on policies.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross is a seasoned traveler who packs just one carry-on bag and a personal item – even when adventuring with her toddler . She used her personal experience and research skills to put together this guide, and notes that even if your carry-on bag meets size restrictions, you may still need to check it at the gate because of limited space in the overhead bin. Luckily, it's still free.

You might also be interested in:

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

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

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

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The 11 Very Best Pieces of Rolling Luggage

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

In this article

Best rolling luggage overall.

• Best less expensive
• Best for frequent fliers
• Best mixed material
• Best aluminum
• Best for overpackers

Best rolling-luggage set

• Best soft-side

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

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

What we’re looking for

Hard-shell vs. soft-side.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best less expensive polycarbonate rolling luggage

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

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

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

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

Best less-expensive ABS rolling luggage

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

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

Best rolling luggage for frequent fliers

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

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

Best rolling luggage for budget airlines

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

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

Best customizable rolling luggage

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

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

Best aluminum rolling luggage

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

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

Best rolling luggage for overpackers

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

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

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

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

Best soft-side rolling luggage

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

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

Additional reporting by Rachael Griffiths

Some more rolling luggage we’ve written about

Our experts

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

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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

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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

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Luggage Size Chart

The importance of a luggage bag size chart cannot be overstated, as improperly sized luggage can transform an anticipated journey into a hassle at the airport. From incurring additional fees for oversized and trolley bag to facing restrictions on carry-on access, understanding and adhering to additional questions related to luggage size limits is pivotal. Before heading to the airport, a quick review of our comprehensive luggage size guide ensures a smoother travel experience.

Which luggage to take when traveling?

There are tons of questions regarding selecting the right type of luggage for travel can be a daunting task, as various factors come into play to ensure a seamless journey. The duration, distance, and destination of the trip are crucial considerations. For short trips, a compact carry-on, duffle backpack  or office bag may suffice, offering convenience and avoiding check-in hassles. Longer journeys, especially those involving multiple destinations, may require larger suitcases to accommodate ample belongings. The type of travel, be it business, leisure, or adventure, further influences the choice. A well-informed decision on luggage size and type not only caters to practical needs but also enhances overall travel comfort and efficiency.

Explore our comprehensive inch luggage size chart below, providing detailed dimensions for various bag types, ensuring you stay well-informed for your travel packing needs.

When to Opt for Checked Luggage

Choosing checked luggage is often the preferred option for extended trips where a larger wardrobe is essential. Business travelers, especially those with formal attire or multiple outfits, may find checked bags more accommodating. Vacationers planning for diverse weather conditions or various activities could also benefit from the extra space. Additionally, when carrying larger items or specific equipment necessary for the journey, opting for checked luggage ensures a smoother and more comfortable travel experience.

Checked Baggage Allowances and Restrictions

When to opt for carry on bags.

Carry-on bags are the perfect choice for travelers in specific situations, such as short trips or weekends away. Their compact size and lightweight nature make them ideal for quick getaways. Opting for carry-on bags offers several advantages, including convenience, cost savings, and the ability to bypass the often time-consuming baggage claim process. Travelers can enjoy swift departures, avoiding the hassle of waiting for checked baggage.

Carry on luggage size chart 

Personal items limitations.

Airlines typically designate a specific space beneath the seat for personal items, such as laptops , medications, books, or other essentials. This space is intended to provide convenience for passengers during the flight. However, exceeding the allotted space may necessitate the use of the overhead bin and, in some cases, could lead to additional fees. It's essential for travelers to be mindful of the dimensions and limitations imposed by airlines to ensure a smooth and hassle-free boarding experience.

In conclusion, understanding luggage size guidelines is paramount for a seamless travel experience. The choice between carry-on and checked luggage depends on factors like trip duration and specific needs. Adhering to airline regulations prevents unnecessary fees and ensures swift boarding. The convenience of personal items beneath the seat is advantageous, but travelers must be mindful of space limitations. To assist in making informed choices, it is recommended to refer to our comprehensive luggage size chart in kg or luggage size chart in cm. By consulting this, travelers can sidestep common pitfalls, enjoy cost savings, and embark on their journeys with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 3 sizes of luggage?

• Luggage generally comes in three main sizes: small, medium, and large. Small luggage, often referred to as carry-on, is suitable for short trips, while medium and large sizes cater to longer journeys with increased packing capacity. 

What is the size limit for carry-on luggage?

• The carry-on luggage size chart varies among airlines, but common dimensions range around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm). It's crucial for travelers to check their airline's specific requirements to ensure their carry-on meets the size restrictions and avoids any inconvenience during boarding.

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• WiKi Pencil Pouches
• WiKi String Bags
• Wiki Disney Accessories

• Luggage Sizes
• Check-in Bags
• Teen's Packs
• Teen's Accessories
• Men's Clothing
• Men's Jackets & Cheaters
• Men's Sweatshirts & Pullovers
• Men's Tracksuits
• Men's Joggers & Trackpants
• Men's Pants & Cargos
• Men's Shorts & Cargo Shorts
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• Women's Clothing
• Women's Jackets & Cheaters
• Women's Sweatshirts & Pullover
• Women's Shirts & Tshirts
• Women's Trousers & Trackpants
• Women's Capris & Leggings
• Women's Rain Jackets
• Women's Raincoats
• Women's Rain Pants
• Women's Rain suits & Ponchos
• Women's Essentials
• Women's Socks
• Women's Caps & Hats
• Women's Mufflers & Gaiters
• Women's Gloves
• Women's Supermasks
• Teen's Clothing
• Teen's Essentials
• Men's Shoes
• Hiking & Trekking
• Even Terrain Running
• Travel Sandals
• Women's Shoes

Wheelers Trolleys

Centauri Large Hard Trolley

Zephyr Cabin Hard Trolley

Dune Plus Medium Soft Trolley

Sirius Plus Large Soft Trolley

Capella Large Hybrid Trolley

Agena Large Hard Trolley

Dorado Large Soft Trolley

Canopus Cabin Hard Trolley

Spectra Cabin Soft Trolley

Rover Green

Altair Cabin Hard Trolley

Apollo Medium Soft Trolley

Saiph Cabin Hard Trolley

Antares Medium Hard Trolley

Zephyr Large Hard Trolley

Dune Cabin Soft Trolley

Rover Orange

Spectra Large Soft Trolley

Saiph Medium Hard Trolley

Altair Large Hard Trolley

Dune Medium Soft Trolley

Crux Cabin Soft Trolley

Rover Black

Airport Trolley

Airport trolleys are useful for transporting baggage to and from check-in desks inside the terminal.

Their sturdy base provides a solid platform for high volumes of luggage on three or four wheels.

Available with a choice of handle styles, basket types, as well as a range of wheel and castor options including deadman brakes, the Handle-iT range of airport trolleys is continuously expanding.

They are also available in a wide range of finishes that suit environments in a variety of sectors.

Lightweight aluminium frames form a rust-resistant body that is also highly durable, making it a vital piece of equipment for sea or riverside ports as well as at airports.

Additional features of our Airport Trolleys

The majority of our airport luggage trolleys have a deadman braking system, preventing a user from moving the trolley unless they are pressing the handle.

It’s a feature that minimises the risk of any accidents, like bumping into another traveller, and prevents a trolley from rolling away.

Every airport trolley we supply is equipped with a coin lock system, giving incentives for customers to return them. By encouraging travellers to leave their airport trolley at the correct storage locations, airport operators can save costs on trolley management and lost trolleys.

Many luggage trolleys also provide opportunities for branding and advertising on their numerous panels. This advertising space can help reduce the cost of your airport trolleys by allowing brands, local businesses, and concession stores to “sponsor” the trolleys in exchange for this advertising space.

Duty-free shopping trolleys are frequently used in concession stores, allowing customers to easily transport duty-free goods.

Due to their size, these lightweight trolleys are extremely easy to handle, providing a small top basket for shopping alongside lower storage for luggage alongside heavier items.

For those who want to have an input on their own airport luggage trolley , we also offer a bespoke airport trolley , meaning that we can modify existing designs or even make them from scratch to your exact specification to any quantity.

If this sounds like something you would like, why not contact us today to find out more?

• Landside Baggage Trolleys
• Airside Baggage and Cargo Trailers

Aluminium Airport Trolley - Explorer Range

Explorer Range

The Aluminium Airport Trolley is the head of our Trafficker Range of airport luggage trolleys. Constructed of hardened tubular aluminium, the frame of the trolley is extremely durable yet remains far lighter that its steel counterparts extending both...

3 Wheeled Passenger Baggage Trolley

The 3 wheeled passenger baggage trolley is part of Handle-iT's Explorer Range of airport baggage trolleys. Constructed from tubular stainless steel and mounted on 3 wheels, this baggage trolley is a great all rounder, and features an...

4 Wheeled Airport Luggage Trolley

The 4 Wheeled Airport Luggage Trolley is part of Handle-iT's Explorer Range of airport trolleys. The trolley offers superb manoeuvrability in tight busy terminals thanks to its four swivel castors, and is available in either mild or 304 stainless...

Stainless Steel Luggage Trolley - Explorer Range

The Stainless Steel Luggage Trolley is the head of Handle-iT's Explorer Range of stainless steel airport luggage trolleys. Constructed of high quality 304 stainless steel and mounted on 4 independent steering castors, the trolley is extremely durable...

Stainless Steel Passenger Baggage Trolley

This stainless steel luggage trolley is designed for passengers to easily transport their baggage around site. Popular in ports, railway stations, and airports, these luggage trolleys have a sturdy stainless steel chassis, making them great for seaside...

Heavy Duty Luggage Cart

The Heavy Duty Luggage Cart is the strongest and most durable airport trolley in the Explorer Range of stainless steel luggage trolleys. Constructed of high quality heavy duty tubular stainless steel, this huge 300kg luggage cart mounted on...

Airside Duty Free Shopping Trolley

Airside Duty Free Shopping Trolleys make the duty free shopping experience at your facility care-free. Constructed from high quality stainless steel, this sexy, sleek, and curvaceous Airside Cart reduces the risks of left shopping bags and hand...

Heavy Duty Balance Trolley

The Heavy Duty Balance Trolley or Geest Trolley has the benefits of the turntable trolley range, but with the additional benefit that it is more manoeuvrable, perfect central balance makes even 500kg loads very manageable. Working like a see-saw when the...

Airport Trolley Powered Tug/Pusher

Airport Trolley Powered Tug/Pusher:Management of airport trolleys around your facility can be an expensive job, which unfortunately is critical to ensuring a smooth operation. Moving your airport trolley fleet is not only physically difficult to manage,...

Rollerbed Pallet Container Trailer | 7000kg Capacity

Made for offloading and loading of aviation ULD containers, this rollerbed trailer allows efficient handling of P1P and P6P collection panelling, as well as LD1, LD2, LD3, LD4, LD7, LD8, LD9, LD11, LD26, LD29, LD39 aviation containers. Industrial...

Airport Baggage Trailer with Canvas Sides

Airport Baggage Trailer with Canvas Sides: built to stand the test of time. Here at Handle-iT we know anything used by the baggage handling teams at any airport needs to be designed and built to perfection. Transporting high volumes of cargo around site...

ULD Container Dolly Trailer | LD1/2/3 | 1600kg Capacity

This container dolly is designed for loading of standard ULD containers of classes LD1, LD2, and LD3. The industrial frame is fitted with zinc-loaded rollers to allow easier and more efficient loading and offloading of loads. Industrial...

Aviation Pallet Trailer | 7000kg Capacity

Designed for easier handling of collection panelling and aviation containers, this pallet trailer can support a load of up to 7000kg. This particular model is designed to suit P1P, P6P, PMC, and PAJ collection panelling as well as LD1 and LD2 aviation...

Airport Trolleys FAQs

How do airports use trolleys.

Airports use a wide range of trolleys, including anything from a simple duty-free shopping trolley used by passengers browsing concession stands to large industrial trailers used for transporting freight and cargo around the airfield. 

Handle-iT is committed to constantly improving its selection of airport trolleys, and we welcome input from those seeking to replenish or replace items at their location.

Which material is best for an airport trolleys?

Selecting the right material for your airport trolley is critical if you want to guarantee it lasts a long time. 

Aluminium is light and rust-resistant, but is a softer material that can dent easily.  Mild steel is usually Bright Zinc-plated which is strong, hardwearing, provides a nicer finish, and combats rust.  With stainless steel, you don’t have to deal with rust, but it can be expensive. 

Meanwhile, opting for a plastic airport trolley is increasingly feasible and is being trialled in the marketplace, with an emphasis being put on recycled plastic. ou need to consider the environment that your airport luggage trolley will be used in to help minimise the need for repairs or replacements, as well as how much you are willing to spend. 

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Trolleys made to your specification

Handle-iT offers a design and manufacture facility in our own factories here in the southwest, where we can manage the whole process.

Click HERE for more information

Need help finding your perfect trolley?

Enquire Online Here

Email the Sales Team at [email protected]

Call the Sales Team on +44 (0)1803 875 222

Best Trolley Bags in India For That Manoeuvrability and The Ultimate Voyage Experience

Best Trolley Bags in India - Our Top Picks

Kamiliant by american touristerharrier 68 cm trolley bag, key features of kamiliant by american touristerharrier 68 cm trolley bag.

• Size: Medium, 68 cm
• Lock Type:3 Digit Fixed Combination Lock
• Wheels: 360 degree rolling wheels
• Material: Polypropylene
• Type: Hard Sided
• Resistance: Scratch
• Handle: Multi Step Trolley Handle
• Warranty: 3 Years

Pros and Cons

Skybags rubik 78 cms large check-in polyester soft sided trolley bag, key features of skybags rubik 78 cms large check-in polyester soft sided trolley bag.

• Size: Medium, 78 cm
• Lock Type:3 Dial Lock
• Wheels: Four 360 degree rolling wheels
• Material: Polyester
• Type: Soft Sided
• Resistance: NA
• Handle: Push Button Trolley
• Warranty: 5 Years

American Tourister Ivy 3 Pc Set Trolley Bag

Key features of american tourister ivy 3 pc set trolley bag.

• Size: 55 cm, 68 cm, 77 cm
• Lock Type: TSA Lock
• Wheels: Four Spinner Wheels
• Material: Polypropelene
• Resistance: Scratch and Impact
• Handle: Telescopic Handle

Safari Thorium Neo 8 Wheels 55 Cm Small Cabin Trolley Bag

Key features of safari thorium neo 8 wheels 55 cm small cabin trolley bag.

• Size: 55 cm
• Lock Type:Fixed Combination Lock
• Wheels: 8 wheels
• Material: Polycarbonate

Safari Pentagon 3 Pc Set Trolley Bag

Key features of safari pentagon 3 pc set trolley bag.

• Size: 55 cm, 65 cm, 75 cm
• Lock Type:Number Lock
• Wheels: 4 wheels, 360 degree
• Handle: Smooth Adjustable Handle

Skybags Trooper 65 cms Medium Check-in Trolley Bag

Key features of skybags trooper 65 cms medium check-in trolley bag.

• Size: 65 cm
• Lock Type: Fixed Combination Lock
• Wheels: 4 wheels
• Warranty: 1 Year

uppercase Bullet (Small) 56cm | Cabin Trolley Bag

Key features of uppercase bullet (small) 56cm | cabin trolley bag.

• Warranty: 2000 Days

MOKOBARA The Transit Check-in Polycarbonate Hardsided Luggage

Key features of mokobara the transit check-in polycarbonate hardsided luggage.

• Size: 64 cm
• Lock Type: TSA Number Lock
• Wheels:Super Silent Ninja Wheels
• Material: INDESTRUCTIBLE ABS+ POLYCARBONATE SHELL
• Resistance: Water
• Handle: Smooth Aviation Grade Telescope Handle

Safari Zany 78 cms Large Check-in Hardsided Trolley Bag

Key features of safari zany 78 cms large check-in hardsided trolley bag.

• Size: 78 cm
• Wheels: Dual Wheels
• Resistance: Water, Dust and Scratch
• Handle: Adjustable Telescope Handle

Delsey Paris Tiphanie 76 cms Large Check-in Polycarbonate Trolley Bag

Key features of delsey paris tiphanie 76 cms large check-in polycarbonate trolley bag.

• Size: 76 cm
• Wheels: 360 degree rotating wheels
• Material:Polycarbonate ABS Shell
• Resistance: Water, Scratch and Dust
• Handle: Push Button
• Warranty: 2 Years

Our Top Picks

Comparison table of best trolley bags in india.