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TUMI - 19 Degree Extended Trip Expandable 4-Wheeled Packing Case - Hard Side Suitcase with Spinner Wheels - Spacious International Travel Luggage with Secure Storage - Black

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About this item.

• Hard Case Suitcase with Wheels: Equipped with 4 recessed dual spinner wheels for smooth and quiet maneuverability, making it ideal for international travel
• Large Luggage Dimensions: Measures 30.5" x 20.0" x 11.0" with an expanded depth of 13.0" for a spacious luggage piece
• Hard Shell Suitcase for International Travel: Made from durable and flexible recycled polycarbonate material for an exceptional suitcase
• Integrated TSA Lock: No keys required, ensuring your belongings are securely stored during domestic and international travel
• About TUMI: When we make our business and travel products, we strive for superior quality, design excellence, and technical innovation

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Expandable Packing Case

Product details

• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 20.08 x 11.02 x 30.51 inches; 11 Pounds
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ 0228774
• Department ‏ : ‎ Unisex Adult
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Tumi-Women's
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B097ZY43HQ
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ Indonesia
• #16,761 in Luggage & Travel Gear

Top Brand: TUMI

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Collection: 4 Wheel Suitcases

Going on a weekend getaway or an extended vacation? You need a bag that is built to resist the challenges thrown at you. Discover the durability that Eastpak 4-wheel suitcases have to offer you.

Looking for the best travel luggage?

Eastpak has just what you're looking for. Check out our 4-wheel luggage that features plenty of space to pack the essentials you need during your adventures. Make traveling easy with our 4-wheel luggage range.

Match your style to your needs.

Go first class with our collection of small and large 4-wheel suitcases, like the Trans4. Need a carry-on? Explore our 4-wheel cabin suitcase selection. Eastpak bags are designed to go the distance.

Pack more ... or less.

We have more than 4-wheel luggage. Going to school? Check out our backpacks. Need to protect your computer? Say no more. Eastpak laptop backpacks have you covered. We also have bum bags, wallets, and other accessories that go wherever you go.

Adventure with peace of mind.

Our 30-year warranty covers a lot! We offer repairs and replacements under certain terms. To learn more about what's covered and what's not, check out our Warranty terms.

How do I pack a 4-wheel suitcase?

First, choose the right suitcase for your adventures. Make a packing list and gather your items. Roll or fold clothes, depending on your preference. Consider using packing cubes or vacuum bags to organize and store more of your gear. Place heavy items at the bottom and use small pockets and compartments to organize everything. Zip it all up and add a label.

Can you pull a 4-wheel suitcase?

Fun Fact: 4-wheel suitcases are often referred to as ""spinner"" luggage because they are designed to be easy to maneuver and provide excellent mobility. You can push or pull the suitcase upright on all 4 wheels or roll it on a pair of wheels like a traditional 2-wheel suitcase.

Are 4-wheel suitcases better than 2-wheel suitcases?

It depends on who you ask. 4-wheel suitcases are particularly popular for their ease of use, especially if you have a lot of walking to do during your travels. They distribute the weight more evenly and reduce the strain on your arms and shoulders compared to traditional 2-wheel suitcases. 2-wheel suitcases do well on rougher terrain when it's easier to pull your luggage instead of rolling it.

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The 7 Best Rolling Suitcases, According to Our Hands-On Experience

Our top luggage picks for every traveler—and every budget.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

If it’s been a minute since the last time you replaced your luggage, consider the importance of having a reliable suitcase on your journey. You don’t want to be the person with the duck-taped spinner on the baggage carousel. That’s no way to kick off a vacation. Plus, performance and design innovations tend to improve with time, so you may be missing out on luggage that’s lighter weight and easier to pack than whatever you have stored in your closet.

As a former travel editor, I’ve tried quite a few rolling suitcases—and I tried several more just for this piece. Read on for our picks for the best rolling suitcases on the market, spanning a range of price points, plus advice on what look for while you shop.

The Best Rolling Suitcases

• Best Overall : Away The Carry-On
• Best Value: Monos Carry-On Pro
• Best Budget: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Luggage
• Best Customizable : Roam Carry-On Front Pocket
• Best Sustainably Made : Paravel The Aviator

How We Selected

I have more than a decade of professional experience geeking out over luggage (to a degree that most people would find obsessive and exhausting). As a senior editor on Popular Mechanics ’ product reviews team, I still keep tabs on brands that are new to the marketplace, watching for new innovations in design and moves toward incorporating sustainable materials.

Our selection includes hardside and softside carry-on and checked rolling suitcases, from sub-$200 weekenders to luxury bags that cost well over $1,000. We got our hands on the majority of luggage we feature below, and vetted the others for high-quality materials and construction. To compare each, we considered wheel performance, handle sturdiness, and organizational design, along with overall aesthetics and nice-to-have extras like luggage tags and laundry bags.

Away The Carry-On Rolling Suitcase

Away’s original Carry-On, which dropped back in 2016, continues to be one of the brand’s bestsellers, and we totally get why. Of all the bags we got our hands on, this one went above and beyond for performance and attention to detail.

To my mind, the most important feature on any rolling suitcase is, in order, the wheels and the trolley handle—and Away’s Carry-On nails both. Travel can be tiring and stressful enough without a full-on workout to get your luggage from terminal to gate. That’s why it’s essential to have one that drives like a dream.

The bag didn’t get stuck on carpeting or pavement and kept up with me while I darted through crowds (one of my superpowers). I appreciated the grippy trolley handle versus the hard plastic on most others, and the TSA-approved combination lock was nice to have on top rather than along the side.

In terms of aesthetics, things like the wide-stitch leather trim and bonus leather luggage tag add considerable polish, which is appreciated at this price point.

Away’s latest update to its rolling suitcase line includes a recessed underside handle that helps you lift the bag onto a luggage stand or hoist it up into the overhead. Simple, but genius.

The interior also got a refresh, with three mesh pockets integrated in its compression system. Good functionality, but looks-wise, it doesn’t break the mold.

Still, all in all, it’s tough to find serious fault with this rolling suitcase. Away set the standard with a 100-night trial and a limited lifetime guarantee, which most newer luggage brands have since adopted. Whether you want to spend $315, especially when some of the competition offers a close second for considerably less, is your preference.

Monos Carry-On Pro Rolling Suitcase

Monos is a relative newcomer to the luggage and lifestyle travel space. Just five years in, the Vancouver-based brand has managed to turn out a collection of carry-on and checked bags that look great and offer fantastic value.

The Carry-On goes head-to-head with Away’s Carry-On on all the most important points—and costs $255 versus Away’s $315. The rolling suitcase’s high-performance spinner wheels and sturdy trolley handle are equally impressive.

And while it may not have an exterior with high-end details, Monos one-ups its main competitor on the interior, which looks more luxe and has a superior compression system. Extras thrown in include two shoe bags in addition to a laundry bag and vegan leather luggage tag.

The piece I tested is the Carry-On Pro, which adds an incredibly well-designed front laptop compartment, but is otherwise the same as the standard Carry-On, minus a few inches of interior packing space. I highly recommend it if you want an awesome rolling suitcase for work trips.

Along with everything that wowed me about the Monos luggage, I really appreciated that it came inside a canvas drawstring dust bag and shipped in a box with a handle. Those kind of thoughtful details go a long way when you’re dropping a couple hundred bucks.

Interior of the Monos Carry-On Pro

Roam Carry-On Front Pocket

Roam is the brainchild of two Tumi alums who saw potential in the marketplace for high-end, customizable luggage—and boy, is it fun to go down a rabbit hole using the brand’s online design tool.

You can choose color options for the front, back, and trim, as well as the wheels, handle, and even the binding. And, if the choices are too overwhelming, you can always leave it to the experts and go for one in the gallery. Because committing caused me more anxiety than I’d like to admit, I roped in a co-worker to design it for me (and it came out great!).

The spinner wheels performed admirably and I didn’t have any complaints about the trolley handle’s sturdiness. Also, all of Roam’s bags come with a lifetime limited warranty and a 100-day trial.

For a rolling suitcase at this price, I expected more for the interior, which was perfectly functional but lacked the next-level design of other carry-ons that cost much less.

Personally, I can’t travel without a laptop for more than a day or two, so I tested the Carry-On front pocket, which has a well-padded compartment but isn’t on par with the Monos.

If you want a rolling suitcase that offers solid performance and tons of color combo options, I highly recommend the Roam—but expect to pay much more for the privilege of owning a personally designed piece of luggage.

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Luggage 24-Inch

For less than $200, this medium checked hardside rolling suitcase is great choice—and it comes with Samsonite’s 10-year limited warranty.

The polycarbonate clamshell expandable bag has an eye-catching design and features spinner wheels, a TSA-approved lock, and two interior packing compartments with zippered mesh dividers. There’s also a handy top handle, which makes it easy to grab off the luggage carousel.

Laptop compartments for Roam (left) and Monos (right).

Paravel The Aviator

Paravel was founded in 2016 and distinguishes itself from the pack as a sustainable, socially responsible travel brand that designs attractive, eco-friendly luggage and accessories.

The Aviator accompanied me on a weeklong trip to New Jersey. But soon after boarding the train, I decided it’s the perfect bag to take if I’m ever lucky enough to go back to St. Barth. The rolling suitcase is stunning—particularly in cream with camel vegan leather trim—and the interior’s design impressed me more than any piece luggage I’ve ever had the pleasure of packing.

Yet despite its lovely attributes, it didn’t perform nearly as well as the competition, particularly for city travel. The wheels were challenged by the commercial carpeting in my hallway and rough sidewalk pavement. It didn’t take curbs very well and the trolley handle wiggled from side-to-side.

It’s worth noting that on my flip trip back to New York, I saw a woman on the train platform with the Aviator and flagged her down to ask what she thought of it. She said she loved it overall, but also felt that the trolley handle wasn’t the sturdiest.

Still, for anyone seeking a high-style rolling suitcase that’s sustainably made, there’s no competition.

Interior of the Paravel Aviator.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Rolling Suitcase

At only 5.4 pounds, this 22-inch softside rolling suitcase is ultra-lightweight—and it’s from Travelpro, a go-to for inexpensive, well-made luggage.

It’s made of stain- and water-resistant polyester and tapered on the top to prevent tipping, with a telescoping handle that locks at two heights.

The main compartment has a zippered mesh top and adjustable hold-down straps on the opposite side, plus a zippered modesty pocket for small items like keys and chargers. There are also two large exterior compartments, plus it expands up to 2 inches—handy for the trip home if you went on a shopping spree. It comes in eight colors, though they're somewhat muted.

The only caveat is that the suitcase doesn’t have spinner wheels, which may be a dealbreaker for some.

Rimowa Original Cabin Rolling Suitcase

If dropping well over a grand on a piece of luggage is no biggie, Rimowa’s iconic aluminum Original Cabin rolling suitcase is worth considering.

Of all its high-end the ultimate jet-setter status bag boasts, my favorite has nothing to do with style. Its spinner-wheel braking system—a feature you would think midrange brands would prioritize figuring out—is practically worth the price tag. No matter how mindful I am of keeping my spinner next to me, it inevitably rolls away every time I travel.

The interior of Rimowa’s signature bag may not seem like much at first glance. But despite the lack of pockets to catch small items, its compression system is a godsend for over-packers—which is a good thing, because the bag closes with two locks rather than a somewhat forgiving zipper.

I’d be remiss not to point out that while the rolling suitcase’s name implies that it fits in the cabin, it’s almost two inches wider than standard domestic carrier dimensions. Chances are, anyone with funds to own a Rimowa won’t consider that an important detail—especially if the cabin is in a private jet.

What to Consider When Buying a Rolling Suitcase

Size and weight.

Carry-on and checked bag size and weight allowances vary widely among domestic and international airlines. As such, we highly recommend consulting your carrier’s website for specs before booking your ticket.

That said, standard carry-on dimensions for most domestic airlines are 22 by 14 by 9 inches (or 45 linear inches, measured diagonally across the suitcase), including wheels. Some international carriers cap carry-on height at 21 inches, so you may want to choose a smaller rolling suitcase if you frequently travel abroad.

Most domestic airlines don’t have weight restrictions for carry-ons, while most international carriers do. Checked bag requirements—and fees attached—are all over the map for both domestic and international carriers.

Keep in mind that baggage allowances may depend on fare class. A basic economy ticket on United or JetBlue, for example, doesn’t include a free carry-on—just a personal item.

Hardside or Softside?

The next decision to make is whether you want a hardside or a softside bag. Polycarbonate is typically used for hardside luggage (also referred to as hard-case or hardshell, depending on the brand) whereas softside rolling suitcases are often made of ballistic nylon—there are pros and cons of each.

Hardside suitcases are generally more durable, but lack outer pockets and scratch easily. Softside luggage isn’t as durable as edges can fray over time, but often includes several outer pockets so you can grab what you need while on the go. A few brands—like Monos and Roam—have hardside suitcases with padded front laptop compartments. You’ll find expandable models for both hardside and softside bags.

Spinner or Fixed Wheels?

Next up: do you want a bag with four spinner wheels or two traditional fixed wheels? Spinner wheels rotate 360 degrees, which makes it easy to roll your bag alongside you rather than dragging it behind you all the time.

The downside is that spinners aren’t as compact fixed wheels and the majority of spinner bags don’t have a brake system, which may mean your suitcase rolls away on surfaces with an incline.

Finally, you should absolutely factor in the warranty when buying any suitcase. Some brands also offer a 100-day trial period with a money-back guarantee and a lifetime limited warranty. A 10-year limited warranty is solid. We avoided featuring brands or specific models with five-year warranties or less, since luggage can be quite an investment.

Rachel Klein is a Senior Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics , where she writes about everything from garden hose reels and patio furniture to mesh wifi systems and robot vacuums. She started her career as a daily newspaper reporter and was a travel editor for more than a decade before she started testing and reviewing luggage, noise-cancelling headphones, and other travel-related products. Fast-forward another five years and her area of expertise includes home decor, appliances, tech, and outdoor adventure gear. In her spare time, you'll find her planning her next trip, reading historical fiction, and seeing as much art as she can squeeze into a weekend. 

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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.

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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9 Best Carry-On Luggage with 4 Wheels | Travel Effortlessly in 2023

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Table of Contents

Are you looking for the best carry-on luggage with 4 wheels? Look no further. Whether planning a weekend getaway, business trip, or extended vacation, having the right bag can make all the difference.

With so many options available today, knowing which one is right for you can take a lot of work.

When choosing your carry-on luggage with 4 wheels, there are several factors to consider: size and capacity; durability; comfort and ease of use; security features; and style. You want something that meets all your needs without sacrificing quality or convenience.

That’s why we’ve extensively researched the top brands in this category to bring you our list of the best carry-on luggage with 4 wheels on the market today.

• 21″ Spinner Luggage maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light
• Packing Dimensions: 19.5″ x 14.5″ x 10.0″, Overall Dimensions: 21.25″ x 15.25″ x 10.0″, 6.5 lbs.
• 10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
• Recessed TSA combination lock provides security when checked belongings, cases expand for added packing capacity
• Ultra-Light, ultra strong shells withstand the rigors of modern travel

We’ve tested and reviewed the best cabin suitcases with 4 wheels to find out what people love about each product — from their favorite features to any drawbacks they may have experienced during travel.

We’ve also considered weight capacity, materials used in construction, warranty information, price point, and more when compiling our list of picks for the best overall value and budget option in this category.

So whether you’re looking for something small enough to fit in an overhead compartment or something that can handle the rigors of international travel, you’ll find it here.

We hope you’ll find our guide helpful in your search for the ultimate carry-on luggage with 4 wheels.

Related: Harside versus Softside Luggage

4-Wheel Luggage: The Better Choice for Travelers 

Choosing the right luggage for your travels is crucial, and one of the most significant decisions you will make is whether to go with 2-wheel or 4-wheel luggage.

While both have advantages, it’s essential to consider what type of traveler you are before deciding. We’ll dive into why 4-wheel luggage is the better choice for most travelers, including its balance, maneuverability, and weight, and then review the best carry-on luggage with 4 wheels.

1. Better Balance 

One of the most significant advantages of 4-wheel luggage over 2-wheel luggage is its better balance. With four wheels, the weight of your luggage is evenly distributed, making it less likely to tip over.

This is especially important if you carry delicate or fragile items in your luggage.

Additionally, 4-wheel luggage tends to be broader and shorter than 2-wheel luggage, which makes it more stable and easier to pack neatly.

2. Easier Maneuverability 

Another advantage of 4-wheel luggage is its easier maneuverability. With four wheels, you can roll your luggage in any direction, including sideways, making navigating through tight spaces like crowded airports or train stations easier.

Also, 4-wheel luggage tends to have a smoother and more fluid rolling action, reducing the strain on your arms and shoulders when you’re pulling it along.

One of the downsides of 4-wheel luggage is that it tends to be heavier than 2-wheel luggage. This is because 4-wheel luggage has extra wheels, which are often larger and more durable than those on 2-wheel luggage.

However, this extra weight is offset by the fact that 4-wheel luggage is easier to maneuver, which means you don’t have to exert as much effort when pulling it along.

4. Durability

Finally, 4-wheel luggage tends to be more durable than 2-wheel luggage. This is because the wheels on 4-wheel luggage are often made from more robust materials that can withstand more wear and tear than the wheels on 2-wheel luggage.

Also, 4-wheel luggage tends to have a more robust frame to better protect your belongings from damage during transit.

When choosing the right luggage for your travels, there are many factors to consider. However, for most travelers, 4-wheel luggage is the better choice.

With its better balance, easier maneuverability, and added durability, 4-wheel luggage is more reliable and convenient than 2-wheel luggage. Now let’s take a closer look at the best carry-on luggage with 4 wheels.

Best Carry-On Luggage with 4 Wheels

Here is our comprehensive review of the top 4-wheeled carry-ons currently available. To create this list, we have considered factors such as size, weight, durability, and price. From hardshell suitcases to lightweight softside luggage, we have picked out some of our favorite options that provide both convenience and style.

Whether planning a weekend getaway or an extended international trip, these bags will make it easy for you to travel in comfort and style.

1. Horizon Studios M5 Smart: Best Overall 4-Wheel Carry-On

View on Horizn Studios

Choosing the right carry-on luggage is crucial when traveling. An excellent carry-on suitcase should be lightweight, durable, easy to maneuver, and spacious enough to hold all your essentials.

If you’re in the market for a new 4-wheel cabin suitcase, the Horizon Studios M5 Smart is worth considering. We’ll take a closer look at its features, benefits, and drawbacks so that you can make an informed decision.

The Horizon Studios M5 Smart is the best overall 4-wheel cabin suitcase for several reasons.

Firstly, it’s PETA-approved vegan , which means no animals were harmed in making this luggage.

Secondly, it features a one-click removable smart charger to keep your devices on the go. The charger has a 10,000mAh battery capacity, enough to charge your phone up to four times. The best part? The charger complies with all major airlines so you can take it on board without issues.

The Horizon Studios M5 Smart has a water-resistant front pocket that can hold a 15″ laptop. This pocket is perfect for keeping your laptop safe and dry, especially when traveling in rainy weather. The pocket uses durable and environmentally friendly materials such as Vegan Hi-Core and nylon.

Additionally, the suitcase has a lightweight and durable hard shell made of premium polycarbonate (partially recycled), which can withstand rough handling and keep your belongings intact.

The four 360° Japanese spinner wheels of the Horizon Studios M5 Smart make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and crowded airports. The wheels are smooth and quiet and can rotate in any direction, so you can easily navigate through narrow aisles and busy terminals.

The suitcase also has a TSA-approved lock, which adds an extra layer of security and keeps your items safe from theft. The lock is easy to set and reset and compatible with standard TSA locks.

In addition to all these features, the Horizon Studios M5 Smart also has an inbuilt compression pad and premium laundry bag. The compression pad helps you maximize space in your suitcase by compressing your clothes and other items.

The laundry bag is perfect for keeping your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones, and it’s made of recycled polyester lining, so it’s eco-friendly.

While the Horizon Studios M5 Smart is an excellent 4-wheel cabin suitcase, it does have a few drawbacks. For one, there are more affordable options on the market.

It’s priced higher than some of its competitors, which may be a deal-breaker for budget-minded travelers.

Additionally, the 15″ laptop pocket may not fit larger laptops, so you’ll need to check the dimensions of your laptop before buying the suitcase.

As a result, the Horizon Studios M5 Smart is the best overall 4-wheel cabin suitcase for its excellent features, durability, and eco-friendliness. It’s perfect for travelers who want a high-quality suitcase to keep up with their adventurous lifestyle.

While there may be more budget-friendly options, its premium features and durable design are worth the investment.

2. Roam Osaka: Best 4-Wheel Stylish Carry-On

View on Roam

One of the most important things when traveling is selecting the right luggage. While everyone has their personal preferences, we can all agree that having a  stylish and functional  carry-on is essential.

If you’re looking for the best carry-on luggage with 4 wheels, consider the Roam Osaka. This luggage piece is designed to add a touch of elegance to your travels while providing top-notch functionality. We’ll closely examine what makes Roam Osaka your perfect travel companion.

Roam Osaka’s Elegant Design

The Roam Osaka is made for the modern traveler who wants to add a touch of elegance to their travels.  The design is influenced by Japanese art and culture, evoking elements such as the expansive sky, the vast ocean, and the black ink used in Japanese calligraphy.

Output language code: EN-US. The luggage shell is constructed from lightweight and resilient 100% virgin polycarbonate, making it effortless to navigate through congested airports.

It is also available in various lively hues such as coral, navy, seafoam, and others, enabling you to infuse your travel fashion with your flair.

Roam Osaka’s Top-Notch Features

When selecting a carry-on luggage, you must consider the features that come with it. Roam Osaka is designed with top-notch features you will love.

It features a water-repellent zipper that keeps your belongings dry, Roam compression-packing system that ensures you carry everything you need, luxurious anti-microbial lining, TSA-approved locks, and the world’s best ball-bearing wheels that glide through the airport with ease. 

The aircraft’s aluminum handle is adjustable to four different settings, making it comfortable for any height traveler.

Roam Osaka Lifetime Limited Warranty

When investing in carry-on luggage, you want it to last. At Roam, they understand this principle, so they offer their customers a  lifetime limited warranty .

This warranty covers the luggage from all manufacturing defects, ensuring you get the best and most long-lasting product. You can shop with peace of mind knowing that you have a product that is as committed to your travels as you are.

Free Shipping and 100-Day Return Policy

Roam Osaka offers free shipping, so you can get your stylish carry-on without worrying about additional charges. Moreover, the company is so confident in its product that they offer a 100-day return policy if you’re not satisfied. This return policy is unheard of in the luggage industry, and you can enjoy a guilt-free shopping experience with Roam Osaka.

In review, Roam Osaka is your perfect travel companion designed for the modern traveler looking for elegance and functionality. Its elegant design, top-notch features, lifetime limited warranty, and 100-day return policy make it an investment worth making.

3. RIMOWA Hybrid Cabin: Best Luxury 4-Wheel Carry-On

View on RIMOWA

If you are a frequent traveler, choosing the right luggage becomes essential. You need something reliable, sturdy, and easy to maneuver around. And nothing beats the luxury and functionality of four-wheel carry-on luggage.

Such luggage is crucial, especially when you want to breeze through the airport or a hotel lobby. With so many options out there, one may wonder which one to choose. We’ll take a closer look at the RIMOWA Hybrid Cabin and explain why it is the best 4-wheel carry-on luggage for luxury travel.

RIMOWA Hybrid Cabin is constructed with an aluminum-magnesium alloy, which is solid and lightweight at the same time. The luggage’s sleek and modern design adheres to  German engineering principles , meaning every inch of it is functional and purposeful for durable travel.

Moreover, the luggage comes in different colors, making it perfect for any personal style.

Multiwheel System

The Multiwheel System implemented on the RIMOWA Hybrid Cabin luggage provides four smooth-rolling wheels that rotate 360 degrees. 

This feature enables you to move your luggage smoothly in any direction, quickly navigating tight spaces. Moreover, the wheels are silent, ensuring you do not make unnecessary noise when pulling your luggage.

TSA-Approved Locks

RIMOWA Hybrid Cabin comes with TSA-approved locks, giving you peace of mind when checking into a theme park, on a cruise ship, or at a hotel. Moreover, the locks are easy to use, ensuring your belongings are always safe and secure.

Telescopic Handle

The luggage features a telescopic handle system that adjusts to various heights, making it hassle-free to move around. The handles’ sturdiness and comfort make it a breeze even to carry heavier items, ensuring maximum convenience in your travels.

Overall, the RIMOWA Hybrid Cabin is the best luxury 4-wheel carry-on luggage for travelers who value a combination of style, practicality, and durability.

The luggage is designed to withstand heavy use, making it ideal for frequent flyers. The TSA-approved locks ensure the safety of your belongings, while the Multiwheel System and Telescopic Handle make it easy to move around. The RIMOWA Hybrid Cabin guarantees a lifetime of purposeful travel, making it a worthy investment.

4. Level8 Full Aluminum Carry-On

View on Level8

Traveling is supposed to be a fun, relaxing experience. But how relaxing will it be when you’ve got a less-than-stellar suitcase? One that makes it challenging to move around and doesn’t fit your needs?

That’s why, as a traveler, you need to be aware of the best carry-on luggage with 4 wheels to help make your travels more seamless. We’ll take a closer review at the Level8 Full Aluminum Carry-On and why it is hands-down the best choice for a durable and reliable travel companion.

Made from Aerospace-grade Aluminum Magnesium Alloy, the Level8 Full Aluminum Carry-On is virtually indestructible. Unlike other carry-ons, this one is designed to withstand any impact, keeping your belongings extra safe.

Plus, with its zipperless design, you won’t need to worry about the standard and annoying problem of broken zippers. This also means it is 100% waterproof, ensuring that your luggage and contents stay dry no matter the weather.

Regarding security, the Level8 Full Aluminum Carry-On has dual TSA-approved locks. This means that not only is it safe and secure, but also approved by security personnel.

The slow-release handles work without any noise, making it an excellent choice for those early morning flights when you want to minimize noise. The slow-release handles also make it easy to avoid pinching your hand when opening and closing the luggage.

One of the key highlights of the Level8 Full Aluminum Carry-On is the ultra-quiet 360° durable spinner wheels. Designed with travelers in mind, these wheels ensure that your suitcase glides smoothly across the ground without any jerking motions.

This makes navigating through cramped airport terminals and narrow aircraft aisles easy. Additionally, it offers a mesh pocket interior divider that allows for optimal organization of your belongings.

The Level8 Full Aluminum Carry-On is durable and functional and fits most aircraft overhead compartments. This eliminates the need to check your luggage, allowing you to move seamlessly from one terminal to the next.

You can also be assured that your belongings are safe given that it is made of  Gibraltar Aluminum , resistant to dents and scratches. If you have any issues with your purchase, the Level8 brand stands by its product with a lifetime warranty.

Don’t settle for a sub-par travel experience. When it comes to finding the best carry-on luggage with four wheels, the Level8 Full Aluminum Carry-On is a perfect choice. Not only is it made of superior materials, but it also offers incredible value and functionality.

Its innovative design ensures that it lasts a lifetime, making it the quintessential suitcase for any traveler looking for a reliable solution.

5. Travelpro Platinum Elite

View on Amazon

Traveling is all about adventure and experiencing new things, but it can quickly become a nightmare if you need to be equipped with the right luggage.

That’s where Travelpro Platinum Elite comes in — the best softside 4-wheel cabin suitcase that ensures hassle-free traveling. This expandable carry-on spinner suitcase is designed to meet FAA regulations for carry-on and checked baggage.

Besides, its PrecisionGlide System makes it the perfect choice for anyone who prefers the ease of navigation. Read on to discover why Travelpro Platinum Elite is the best carry-on luggage with four wheels.

Functional Yet Stylish

Travelpro Platinum Elite is the perfect blend of functionality and style. It’s designed to cater to your needs without compromising your style statement.

The exterior has a sleek and beautiful finish that stands out, while the spacious interior ensures you have enough space to store all your travel gear.

Advanced Maneuverability

Carry-on luggage needs to be easy to navigate. And Travelpro Platinum Elite scores total points in this category thanks to its PrecisionGlide System.

The 4-wheel spinner design ensures effortless movement, even on uneven surfaces. Besides, the wheels are self-aligning, which means they keep moving in a straight line even if you’re not pulling the bag perfectly straight.

Additionally, the PowerScope handle with a comfortable Contour Grip makes it convenient and comfortable to move around.

Travel-Savvy Interior

The interior of the Travelpro Platinum Elite is designed for the modern traveler. The expandable carry-on suitcase has built-in accessory pockets and a TSA-compliant, removable quart-sized wet pocket for toiletries. 

Additionally, the drop-in, fold-out suiter keeps clothes wrinkle-free, making it perfect for business travel that requires formal attire.

External USB Port and Powerbank Pocket

In today’s digitally connected era, keeping your devices charged during travel is more crucial than ever. Travelpro Platinum Elite’s external USB port and powerbank pocket are a game-changer in this regard.

The external USB port allows you to connect your device while securely stashing your power bank in the dedicated pocket, and no more running out of battery mid-travel. Power bank not included.

Perfect for Short Trips

Travelpro Platinum Elite is the best carry-on luggage with 4 wheels for short trips. It’s expandable, has a spacious interior, and meets FAA regulations for carry-on and checked baggage.

Additionally, it’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for a stress-free travel experience.

Travelpro Platinum Elite is the ultimate choice for travelers who want to travel in style without any hassle. Its impressive maneuverability, spacious interiors, and specific features make it the best carry-on luggage with 4 wheels.

The PowerScope handle with comfortable Contour Grip and the PrecisionGlide System ensure easy navigation, even on uneven surfaces.

Its built-in accessory pockets and TSA-compliant, removable quart-size wet pocket make it the perfect luggage for modern travelers. And the external USB port and powerbank pocket make electronics charging convenient while on the go.

If you’re looking for a fuss-free travel experience, Travelpro Platinum Elite is your go-to choice.

6. Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus

View on Paravel

Are you searching for the perfect carry-on luggage that’s both durable and eco-friendly? Look no further than the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus with 4 Wheels.  This sleek and stylish luggage is ideal for modern-day travelers who value sustainability and functionality.

Environmentally Friendly Design

What sets the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus apart from other carry-on luggage is its commitment to sustainability. The company has taken measures to offset the carbon emissions produced during the manufacturing and shipping of the product.

In addition, the luggage is environmentally friendly, as it is made from recycled materials such as polycarbonate, aluminum handles, zippers, and vegan leather, and it features Negative Nylon lining, which is created by upcycling 15 plastic bottles.

Opting for this luggage allows you to travel with a reduced carbon footprint.

Spacious Interior

This carry-on luggage is designed with the traveler in mind. It’s perfectly sized to fit four to seven days’ worth of clothing and two to four pairs of shoes, making it ideal for long weekend trips.

Moreover, the spacious interior has several compartments to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible. 

Effortless Maneuverability

The Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus comes with four smooth-rolling, 360° spinner wheels that provide excellent stability and maneuverability. The luggage can effortlessly glide alongside you, reducing the strain on your arms and back.

The retractable handle also provides comfort and ease when navigating through the airport.

Quality Construction

The Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus is built to last. It’s a high-quality suitcase constructed with the best materials and superior craftsmanship. It’s durable and designed to withstand the rigors of air travel. It is an investment in your travel gear that will serve you for years to come.

The Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus with 4 Wheels is the ultimate sustainable carry-on luggage that combines functionality and sustainability.

From its spacious interior and effortless maneuverability to its environmentally friendly design and quality construction, this luggage is perfect for the modern-day traveler who values sustainability and functionality.

Choose the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus for your next adventure, and you’ll have a carry-on that is not only stylish but eco-friendly to accompany you on your journey.

7. Nomatic Carry-On Pro

View on Nomatic

As a frequent business traveler, you understand the importance of having the right luggage. The search for the perfect carry-on can be exhausting and frustrating, but we have found the ultimate solution for you. 

Introducing the Nomatic Carry-On Pro – the best carry-on luggage with 4 wheels on the market today. This rugged and reliable carry-on will make your life on the road more manageable and enjoyable. In this post, we will explore in detail what makes the Nomatic Carry-On Pro the ideal choice for business travel.

Related: Best Luggage for Frequent Travelers

Carry-On Size

One of the standout features of the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is its size. The luggage measures 22″ x 14″ x 9″ and is designed to fit under most airline seats and in overhead bins.

This means that you won’t have to waste time and money checking in luggage, reducing your overall travel expenses. It is also worth noting that the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is airline-approved for most airlines.

Durable Polycarbonate

The Nomatic Carry-On Pro is designed to last. It features an unbreakable polycarbonate shell that can withstand rigorous travel conditions. This means you won’t have to worry about your luggage getting damaged during transit.

Additionally, the luggage comes with a lifetime warranty. This means that if anything happens to your Nomatic Carry-On Pro, you can rest assured that you are protected.

Removable Tech Case

One of the standout features of the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is its removable tech case. This case is designed to hold all of your essential tech, including your laptop, tablet, and phone.

The removable tech case makes it easy to take your tech with you wherever you go. Additionally, the case is TSA-approved, making it easy for you to go through security checkpoints without any issues.

Silent Hinomoto Wheels

The Nomatic Carry-On Pro features silent Hinomoto wheels. These wheels are designed to be quiet, meaning you won’t have to worry about disturbing other travelers while maneuvering through airports. 

Additionally, the wheels are durable and can withstand the wear and tear of constant travel.

Tech Organization and TSA Locking YKK Zippers

The Nomatic Carry-On Pro is designed to keep your tech organized and safe. The luggage features multiple pockets and compartments for your tech accessories, ensuring everything stays in place during transit. 

Additionally, the luggage features TSA locking YKK zippers. This means your luggage will be safe and secure during transit, giving you peace of mind while on the road.

It Fits up to a 16″ Macbook Pro

The Nomatic Carry-On Pro is designed to fit a 16″ MacBook Pro, so you won’t have to worry about carrying an extra bag just for your laptop. The luggage also features a dedicated laptop compartment, ensuring your laptop stays safe and secure during transit.

In summary, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is the ultimate business travel companion. It is durable, organized, and specifically designed to make your life on the road more accessible and enjoyable. With its airline-approved size, silent Hinomoto wheels, and removable tech case, you won’t have to worry about anything while on the go.

Additionally, the lifetime warranty on this luggage provides peace of mind and protection for your investment. If you are a frequent business traveler looking for the best carry-on luggage with 4 wheels, look no further than the Nomatic Carry-On Pro .

8. Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On Max: Aluminum Edition

View on Arlos Skye

The Arlo Skye Frame Carry-On Max Aluminum Edition is a high-quality carry-on luggage that will revolutionize your travel. It boasts a 45-liter capacity, four wheels, and a 10,050 mAh charger with 18W USB C and A ports. But that’s not all. Check out the rest of the features that make this luggage a compelling choice for every traveler.

Unbeatable Security Features

The Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On Max: Aluminum Edition replaces the traditional zipper closure system with two TSA-approved clasp combination locks.

The locking mechanism offers unparalleled security for your belongings while ensuring a sleek and modern look. This feature will give you peace of mind, knowing your valuables are safe and secure.

High-Quality Materials

Engineered with an aluminum exterior, The Frame Carry-On Max Aluminum Edition is highly durable luggage that can withstand the wear and tear of travel. The aluminum exterior, in addition to being aesthetically pleasing, makes this luggage weather-resistant and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.

The virtually silent spinner wheels ensure a smooth and quiet journey, and the antimicrobial interior lining provides a hygienic environment for your belongings.

Travel-Sized Charging Capabilities

The luggage comes with a 10,050 mAh charger, equipped with 18W USB C & A ports, perfect for charging your device on the go. The luggage has a spacious interior capacity that allows you to pack everything you need for your journey without worrying about running out of battery life.

This feature is handy when traveling where charging ports aren’t readily available.

Spacious and Versatile Design

The Frame Carry-On Max Aluminum Edition has an ample 45-liter interior capacity to accommodate all your essential items. Its size makes it easy to maneuver through airport terminals, and its four wheels make it highly maneuverable.

Additionally, it features a built-in garment holder, mesh enclosures for additional storage, and a separate shoe bag, making it easy to organize and pack your belongings.

Best Carry-On Luggage with Four Wheels

The Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On Max Aluminum Edition boasts four wheels, one of the best features a carry-on luggage can have. This feature makes it convenient for travelers to carry their luggage around without straining their arms or shoulder. With four wheels, you can move swiftly and efficiently through crowded airports, subway stations, or hotel lobbies.

Arlo Skye’s The Frame Carry-On Max Aluminum Edition is undoubtedly the best carry-on luggage you will ever invest in. It’s sleek, stylish, and super convenient, offering unbeatable security features that will give you peace of mind each time you travel.

Its spacious interior, travel-sized charging capabilities, and four-wheel design make this piece of luggage versatile, efficient, and perfect for any traveler who wants a hassle-free journey.

9. Samsonsite Freeform

The Samsonite Freeform is a budget-friendly carry-on luggage with 4 multi-directional double-spinner wheels that will change your travel. Don’t let carrying heavy backpacks and lugging around suitcases ruin your vacation.

Instead, invest in the Samsonite Freeform and arrive at your destination fresh and ready. Keep reading to learn why the Samsonite Freeform is the best budget carry-on luggage with 4 wheels.

Affordable and Budget-Friendly

The Samsonite Freeform is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a quality product without breaking the bank. It’s one of the most affordable carry-on luggage with 4 wheels available on Amazon. The Samsonite Freeform provides excellent value for money, making it an ideal option for durability and functionality without a hefty price tag.

10+ Color Options to Choose From

With over ten color options, you can pick luggage matching your style. Whether you’re looking for a classic black or a playful orange hue, the Samsonite Freeform has got you covered.

10-Year Limited Warranty

The Samsonite Freeform comes with a 10-Year Limited Warranty, which means you can travel with peace of mind knowing that your luggage is covered in case of any manufacturing flaws. This warranty speaks volumes about the durability and quality of the product.

The Samsonite Freeform comes with TSA-approved locks that provide an extra layer of security for your belongings. Traveling can be stressful, but having a TSA-approved lock ensures that you can travel easily, knowing that your belongings are safe and secure.

4 Multi-Directional Double Spinner Wheels

The Samsonite Freeform has 4 double spinner wheels that can rotate 360 degrees, allowing you to roll it upright and easily move it around the airport.

The design of the wheels ensures that you won’t feel any weight on your arm or shoulder, making it easy to navigate through crowded areas like airports and train stations.

The Samsonite Freeform is the best budget carry-on luggage with 4 wheels. Its affordable price point, ten color options, and 10-Year Limited Warranty, coupled with TSA-approved locks, make it a standout product. 

The 4 Multi-Directional double spinner wheels offer a smooth, effortless glide, ensuring that you won’t have to struggle with your luggage while traveling.

When choosing the best carry-on luggage with four wheels, there are a few key factors you should consider. When looking for a reliable and durable product, pay attention to features like material type, size capacity, and maneuverability.

Look for other important details, such as compartments or pockets for extra storage space. With so many options available on the market today, we hope our list review has made your search easier by providing some of the best carry-on luggage with four wheels currently available.

Whether you’re traveling near or far, make sure your next trip is hassle-free when using one of these top-rated four-wheel cabin suitcases.

The Best Luggage Sets, Tested by Experts

Coordinating carry-ons and checked bags that are worth the investment.

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

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable luggage.

American Tourister Fieldbrook XLT Softside Upright Luggage

Best for Frequent Flyers

Travelpro platinum elite first class luggage set.

Most Fashionable

Calpak ambeur 2-piece luggage set.

Best on Amazon

Amazon basics 2-piece set hardside spinner.

Best Lightweight

Delsey paris helium dlx softside expandable luggage.

Best Maneuverability

Monos for your special someone luggage set.

Most Popular

Away set of 2 classic.

Best Viral Luggage

Béis luggage set of two.

Best Sustainable

Eagle creek migrate 110l wheeled duffel bag.

If you're headed on a long trip or just consider yourself an over-packer, you might need more than one bag for your belongings (not to mention space to overfill with souvenirs on the way home). Instead of lugging around a hodgepodge of pieces, consider a luggage set. There's nothing more chic and put together than carrying a coordinating set of luggage complete with carry-on and checked bags. And if you're vacationing with kids or family, traveling with a matching set is a great way to keep track of all your bags. But with so many options to choose from, including different types of materials and all kinds of organizational features, it can be difficult to decide which luggage sets will look great, hold up to frequent use and really be worth the splurge.

Samsonite continues to stand out in our Lab evaluations and has wowed our consumer testers , earning it the title of best overall luggage brand . This luggage set includes two of our top-tested suitcases from the brand's Freeform collection — the smaller 21-inch carry-on model and the larger 28-inch checked bag. These suitcases are made of durable hardside material that performed well in our drop tests, resisting major damage after being released repeatedly at different angles from a set 3-foot height.

When we packed the suitcases with a standard load of items like clothing, shoes and accessories, we were impressed by how well everything fit inside with room to spare — even without having to use the 2-inch expansion system. One caveat: Some of our testers noted that the carrying handles on suitcases in this collection felt a bit tight, which made it more difficult to lift or lower the bags. However, the telescopic handles received higher scores for feeling sturdy and comfortable to use. Testers also appreciated how easily the suitcases navigated around twists and turns and said the 360-degree spinner wheels were smooth.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch and 28-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

At less than $100 for three pieces, this basic American Tourister trio is an absolute steal and one of the best affordable luggage sets out there. While the softsided carry-on, checked bag and personal item may be simple, they're still full of practical features that make traveling easier like plenty of external pockets, interior mesh pockets and compression straps to secure your belongings.

The brand's bags aren't as durable as others we've tested in the Lab, so I recommend this set for someone who isn't planning to fly frequently. According to one GH analyst who has used this set for nearly a decade, the bags have still held up well to repeated use. She added that the softside polyester material is slightly worn with some fraying and scuffs, but the bags are still useable, and the important features, like the telescopic handles and zippers, are in working condition. When we evaluated other suitcases from American Tourister, testers highlighted the smooth and stable wheels, and online reviewers say they roll nicely, despite only moving forward and backward.

Pieces: 3 | Sizes: 21-inch and 25-inch suitcases, 10-inch personal item | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Originally designed by a pilot for other pilots who are always on the go, Travelpro's luggage is the perfect pick for the frequent flyer, and I'm particularly impressed by the brand's Platinum Elite collection. The softside suitcases were some of the top performers in our durability tests , withstanding repeated dropping without dents or damage. The nylon material resisted signs of wear after being rubbed back and forth with our abrasion tester. They are heavier than many of the other bags we tested, but they are durable bags built to last.

The suitcases are thoughtfully designed with a tapered expansion system that prevents the bags from tipping over when full. Self-aligning spinner wheels let you push and pull in all directions, and cushioned handles with contoured grips add a comfortable feel. Plus, they're packed full of extras inside like expandable garment bags, toiletries bags and hidden USB ports to charge electronic devices (power bank not included). Our testers gave luggage in this collection high scores for ease of use and highlighted the sturdiness of the telescopic handle. If you're nervous about committing to the high price tag, the brand offers a 100-day return policy, even for used suitcases.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch and 25-inch suitcases | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 100 days, any reason

For luggage that looks as great as it performs, I recommend Calpak's Ambeur two-piece luggage set, which offers the best of fashion and function. Available in five fun metallic shades that are sure to stand out at baggage claim, the bags are made of a composite of polycarbonate and ABS plastic that aced our Lab tests for durability. They also proved water-resistant in our evaluations, but did show noticeable markings after we dragged a wire across the surface during our scratch-resistance tests.

The bags are GH-tester favorites and earned top marks for their performance in our luggage obstacle course which had testers pull the suitcases over different surfaces and around sharp turns. Testers especially loved the sturdy and easy-to-use telescopic handle. When we assessed the suitcases in the Lab, we were impressed by the zippers that opened and closed with ease. The spacious interior compartments were able to hold our entire packing load of items including clothing, shoes and toiletries. Both the carry-on and checked bag are expandable and equipped with zippered organizational pockets, compression straps and a removable toiletries bag. For even more organization, you can try Calpak's top-tested packing cubes too.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch and 29.5-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate and ABS composite | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Not only does this two-piece luggage set from Amazon Basics have more than 34,000 five-star reviews, but it also earned high scores in our Lab evaluations and was loved by our testers. The carry-on and checked suitcase both unfold into two main packing compartments, one with compression straps to keep your belongings in place and another with a full zippered panel for even more security. When we packed the carry-on bag in the Lab, we fit an entire weekend's worth of gear including clothing, shoes and toiletries with room to spare. Plus, both of the suitcases expand for even more space.

The hardside suitcases are made of lightweight ABS plastic that keeps the price low, though it wasn't as scratch-resistant as some other suitcases we tested. It did hold up well in our drop tests though, with no serious denting or breakage after being released repeatedly from a set 3-foot height. When testers rolled the suitcases through our luggage obstacle course, around turns and over different surfaces from wood to carpeting, they were impressed by the maneuverability and wheel performance.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 20-inch and 28-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

As the name implies, these Delsey Helium DLX suitcases are some of the lightest we've evaluated in the Lab. No more lugging around bulky bags or struggling to lift your carry-on into the overhead bin. Despite being so lightweight, these bags are tough. In our tests for durability, the luggage held up well after being released repeatedly in our drop tests, and the softside nylon material showed no signs of wear after being rubbed back and forth 15,000 times by our abrasion tester.

In our evaluations, we found the exterior zippers a bit tricky to use, and the bags received lower scores for maneuverability than other suitcases we tried, but they did earn high scores for their comfortable gripped telescopic handles and for being easy to pack. All three of the suitcases open into one primary packing compartment with compression straps, and the lids of each bag are equipped with zippered pockets and elastic sleeves for additional storage. There are removable bi-fold organizers inside as well. I particularly love that the linings can be unzipped and removed for easy cleaning.

Pieces: 3 | Sizes: 20-inch, 25-inch and 29-inch suitcases | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Designed with simplicity in mind, this two-piece set from luggage brand Monos has a sleek, modern look that our testers love. Both of the bags opened to reveal two spacious compartments that were able to fit our entire load of items in our packing tests. The carry-on bag features an adjustable compression panel, while the larger checked bag is equipped with compression straps and a larger fabric panel to keep everything in place. What's more, there are plenty of organizational mesh pockets inside the bags, along with additional shoe bags and a laundry bag to separate your dirty clothes.

During Lab evaluations, the durable carry-on and checked suitcase resisted major denting and damage in our drop tests. Both we and our consumer testers noticed prominent scuffing on the suitcases after use, but the brand provides a sponge for cleaning. One GH analyst said the sponge removed most of the marks on her bag. In our luggage obstacle course, testers appreciated the smooth gliding wheels and loved how effortless it was to maneuver the bags around twists and turns. They also noticed how well the telescopic handles locked into place at four different heights for easy toting.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 22-inch and 26.5-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Popular luggage brand Away carries sets of its best-selling carry-on and large checked bag for a better value — $50 off the full retail price. The hardside suitcases are loved by testers who highlighted the streamlined look and the spacious, well-organized interior. The bags open into two separate packing compartments with zippered mesh panels and pockets for additional space. There's also an adjustable compression panel inside each bag so you can really stuff it full if you're an over-packer like me. When we packed the bags in the Lab, we appreciated how smoothly the zippers opened and closed and how much we could fit inside.

The polycarbonate material is super lightweight — even lighter than some of our favorite softside luggage — and ultra-durable. It performed well in our drop tests, remaining in great condition after being released multiple times from a set 3-foot height. In our scratch tests, the bags showed minimal scuffs and markings. One caveat: Our consumer testers gave the telescopic handle lower ratings for feeling a bit wobbly when fully extended. The bags received high scores for their maneuverability and smooth wheels. If you want to add a personal touch to your luggage set, Away offers monograms of up to three letters for an added fee.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21.7-inch and 29-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

If you're on Instagram or TikTok, chances are that you've come across viral luggage brand Béis . Actress Shay Mitchell's trendsetting travel brand offers carry-ons, checked bags, weekender bags and more — all thoughtfully designed. The suitcases feature details like cushy padded telescopic handles, a retractable strap to hold a small bag or your travel blanket and a built-in weight indicator to let you know if your bag exceeds 50 pounds. I'm especially a fan of the chic monochromatic color options — even the metal of the telescopic handle matches.

When we tested the brand's suitcases in the Textiles Lab, my fellow GH analysts and I were impressed by how well the luggage withstood dents and damage after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. We did note that the material was more prone to scratches and scuffs than other luggage we tested. The suitcases open butterfly style, exposing a spacious zippered compartment and a compartment with a secure compression strap. A few smaller pockets help keep your things organized. You can choose which pieces to include in your luggage set , so the price and number of pieces vary depending on your selections.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: and 28.3 inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No

Whether you prefer traveling with a duffel, want something that will hold up to your outdoor adventures or are looking for a more sustainable luggage option, Eagle Creek has you covered. The brand's Migrate duffels are sold individually, but I like how you can build your own set with five sizes ranging from 40L to 130L. Each bag is convertible: You can carry it with the attached handles or wear it on your shoulders like a backpack. The larger checked sizes can also be tilted back to roll on the ground with the built-in wheels, while the smaller duffels (like the brand's 40L duffel ) make a convenient carry-on.

All of the bags are made of 100% recycled polyester with a TPU coating that's water-resistant and easy to wipe clean. Plus, it's super durable, and one GH analyst who regularly travels with Eagle Creek duffels says the material holds up well to rough use. The duffels have a wide opening to make packing a breeze, and the large zipper tabs are convenient and easy to pull. Once your bag is packed, you can buckle the outer compression straps to secure your belongings.

Pieces: 1 | Size: Five sizes from 40L to 130L (sold individually) | Material: Recycled polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

How we test the best luggage

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , we test all kinds of luggage to determine which pieces are worth buying. We evaluate luggage in the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab and share it with consumer testers who bring the luggage on their own trips and then provide us with valuable feedback. Here's what we look for when we test suitcases:

• Size and weight: To ensure that the brands' listed dimensions for the suitcases are accurate, we measure each bag in the Lab. We weigh the bags and place carry-ons in a 22" x 14" x 9" area to make sure the suitcases meet most airline restrictions.

• Ease of use: We test the luggage to determine how easy it is to open and close zippers and built-in locks, raise and lower the telescopic handles, roll the wheels, grab the carrying handles and more. We then rate and score the luggage for overall ease of use.

• Packing: We fill each piece of luggage with a standard load of items like clothing, shoes, accessories and toiletries (pictured) to test the capacity. For larger checked bags, we pack them with a week's worth of items and for carry-on bags, we add a weekend trip's worth of items. We then score each suitcase on how much it's able to hold.

• Drop testing: We fill the suitcases with a standard amount of weight and then load them into our drop tester (pictured). We then release the luggage from a set 3-foot height and repeatedly drop the luggage from different angles, evaluating each piece for any dents, damages or scuffs.

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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Tour Trek GTS Hardcase

The GTS Hardcase from Tour Trek (Golfsmith’s house brand) is one of the few available hardsided golf travel bags. Like the Samsonite Hardside , it has a lightweight ABS shell and comes with four 360-degree spinner wheels on the bottom of the case that enable you to roll it standing up, along with two in-line skate wheels when you need to pull it over rougher terrain.

An interior pocket or two would have been nice, but now we’re really splitting hairs. The GTS Hardcase and Samsonite Hardside are very similar products (thus the similar scoring), and it ultimately may come down to which one is better priced on a given day (we’ve seen both at discounts to the listed MSRPs), and whether or not you get antsy about the fact that we couldn’t find any warranty information about the product. We presume that Golsmith would stand behind its products, but you may not be as trusting as we are.

If you fill up your golf travel bag to the airline baggage weight limit, you’ll be at 50 pounds. It’s much easier to roll 50 pounds that is standing up on four wheels than it is to lift one edge of a 50 pound bag and drag it behind you on two wheels. Your arms, shoulders and back will all thank you if you make the move.

Retail price: $199.99 Golfsmith: Check price now

DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

As mentioned above, the Tour Trek GTS Hardcase golf travel case is made of ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, if you must know what it stands for), a lightweight plastic that has a bit of flexibility. Interestingly, both the Tour Trek GTS Hardcase and the Samsonite Hardside had a number of scuffs and scratches after their maiden voyages – we presume it’s just a propensity of ABS to show wear and tear. There was, however, no damage to the structural integrity of the case, and more importantly, the precious cargo was untouched.

A two-way zipper runs the length of the bag with a ring that enables the zippers to be locked together, and the bag comes with a TSA approved padlock. The dimensions of the GTS Hardcase are approximately 52” x 15” x 14”, compared to the Samsonite Hardside ’s 54″ x 16″ x 12″, and thus the GTS Hardcase has a tad more interior capacity. Note that even though it’s a hair shorter than the Samsonite, it had no problems accommodating a golf carry bag with an oversize driver in it.

The design of the Tour Trek GTS Hardcase also includes:

• four 360-degree “spinner” wheels on the bottom of the case that pivot in any direction, making for a smooth rolling experience and the ability to pivot quickly and easily,
• two additional in-line skate wheels positioned on one side that can be used to pull the case over curbs or uneven surfaces,
• a thin layer of padding throughout the bag, with thicker foam padding at the top to protect the heads of your clubs as they extend out of your regular golf carry bag,
• two internal adjustable straps to secure your golf bag – one that fits around the top of the bag and one toward the bottom,
• two plastic-gripped handles – one at the top of the case, and one on the side – with springs that cause the handles to fold tight with the case when they aren’t being used, and
• only one color option – grey.

We tested the Tour Trek GTS Hardcase with a standard sized carry bag, and were comfortably able to fit a pair of golf shoes, a pair of flip flops, and clothes for a long weekend. On the trip home, we had all of the dirty clothes in a plastic hotel laundry bag, and were easily able to shove the plastic bag into the GTS Hardcase and zip it shut. The ABS exterior has some give to it, so there was actually additional room to cram in additional stuff, but as always, you have to be aware of exceeding airline restrictions on weight.

TRAVEL IMPRESSIONS

Like the Samsonite Hardside , the Tour Trek GTS Hardcase is designed to stand on its base and let you wheel it along on the four “spinner” wheels. If you’re going over a curb or uneven surface, you can easily grab the top handle and drag it behind you on the two in-line skate wheels.

The Tour Trek GTS Hardcase weighed 16 pounds (as tested), making it the second heaviest travel case we tested (topped only by the OGIO Mammoth ), but because it is fully wheeled, the additional weight doesn’t impact the ease of hauling it around. The primary impact of the heavier weight is that it means you’re a bit closer to the airlines’ “overweight” baggage fee for bags over 50 pounds before you’ve even started packing.

While the GTS Hardcase is two inches shorter than the Samsonite Hardside , it’s still difficult to fit in the trunk of a typical import car, so you’ll need to either use a pass through between the trunk and back seat, or you can just lay it across the entire back seat (which worked fine in our rental Toyota Camry).

The Tour Trek GTS Hardcase golf travel bag retails for $199.99, placing it among the least expensive third of bags in our tests. We’ve hammered home the convenience of four-wheeling in this review, but will emphasize it one more time – until you’ve tried it, you don’t know what you’re missing. The hard shell provides great confidence in the protection afforded for your clubs, while staying relatively light.

We couldn’t find any warranty information about the Tour Trek GTS Hardcase either on the packaging or on the retailer’s web site, so it may just be caveat emptor. This is a minor concern, although Golfsmith is a large retailer and presumably would stand behind its house products.

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The 8 Best Travel Golf Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Make sure your clubs arrive safely with these durable and portable travel golf bags.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked
• Other Gear You May Need
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

A durable golf travel bag is essential for protecting your clubs and giving you peace of mind whether you’re traveling by car or airplane to one of the world’s best courses. While there are plenty of storage options for safely traveling with your clubs, we tested the best golf travel bags based on qualities like durability, portability, and capacity. 

Our top pick for the best golf travel bag overall is the Club Glove Last Bag Large Pro golf travel bag, which thoroughly impressed us. The bag is made with durable nylon material with plenty of padding to ensure that your clubs make it to your destination safely. We were able to fit clubs, clothes, golf balls, and other accessories into the bag without any issues. If you’re looking for a hardshell case or a budget-friendly bag, we found options for a variety of categories to fit the needs of all golfers. 

Best Overall

Club glove last bag large pro.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

It’s built to last with single webbing reinforcement and burst-proof construction. 

The bag is on the heavier side.

The Club Glove Last Bag Large Pro golf travel bag is one of the best-made travel bags we've seen. Fit for a weekend golf getaway , the bag can comfortably fit a set of clubs in a standard-sized carrier, golf balls, shirts, shorts, towels, and two pairs of golf shoes between the main compartment and two exterior pockets. Despite the 45-pound weight after packing, we thought the balance was evenly distributed throughout the bag and the inline skate wheels rolled smoothly and felt sturdy due to the plastic wheelbase that is designed for high-impact travel. We noted the high-quality feel of the water-resistant nylon material that adds durability to the bag, which truly feels like it will last a lifetime.

The bag is outfitted with self-lubricating YKK zippers and ITW Nexus buckles that come from a manufacturer that makes military-grade hoops, locks, and buckles. An aluminum stiff arm to reinforce the padded protection for impact during traveling is included. We flew with this bag twice in one month of testing and it still looks like it just came out of the box. The durability, functionality, and sleek design of the Club Glove Last Bag Large Pro Golf Travel Bag make it well worth the price for golfers that are planning to travel with their clubs. 

The Details: 86 x 19 x 51 inches | 10.6 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Travel + Leisure / Kyle Tyll

Best Budget

Caddydaddy constrictor 2 travel cover.

This bag includes large pockets that can store all of your extra gear.

The sides aren't padded, so you may want to add cushioning to protect your clubs.

For frequent travelers or golfers who want a bag that can store even their bulkiest gear, this CaddyDaddy bag is the perfect option. Not only is the bag itself large enough to store all of your clubs, but we love that it also features side pockets big enough to pack your shoes and even extra clothing. Even with all of this space, the bag still doesn't feel bulky.

Made of thick rubber and nylon, we feel confident this bag won't break, tear, or otherwise fall apart making it a great value. The fabric is also thick and well-stitched. To give you added peace of mind, it comes with a one-year full replacement warranty so you can test it for yourself.

The Details: 27.5 x 18.9 x 14.5 inches | 9 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon and rubber

Most Spacious

Caddydaddy golf club travel cover with wheels.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

The interior has tons of room for clothing or shoes in addition to golf clubs. 

It has straps that are slightly uncomfortable.

The CaddyDaddy First Class Premium Padded Golf Club Travel Cover with Wheels has tons of space for not only clubs, but golf shoes, clothing, and anything else you would ever need on a golf trip as well. Since the golf travel bag weighs just 10 pounds, golfers can pack up to 40 pounds of clubs, clothes, and other accessories before reaching the general 50-pound checked bag limit for most airlines. We loved the spacious side pockets for toiletries and golf shoes, as well as the well-placed straps that can be tucked in during traveling to prevent damage.

The weight of the golf bag is mostly evenly balanced, and the wheels and handles make it easy to carry and maneuver; however, the top handle could have been a little more comfortable. The materials and the zippers of the bag feel durable and well-made. We're confident that this bag would last a very long time and would not be something you'd have to worry about replacing anytime soon.

The Details: 51 x 13 x 15 inches | 10 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Best Softside

Sun mountain clubglider meridian travel cover.

• Capacity 4.8 /5

There are fold-out legs in the center with wheels that make rolling the bag even easier.

Travelers might want to consider a stiff arm for added protection.

For golfers looking for a simple yet functional golf travel bag, the Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover is a solid option. The design of the bag includes everything you need for hassle-free packing and travel experience, including a spacious interior for a cart or stand bag, two exterior pockets, and a pull-out leg mechanism with an additional pair of wheels besides the ones at the bottom of the bag. We found it very easy to collapse the legs in and out and the bag rolled a lot more smoothly than expected.

The high-quality, durable feel of the handles on the front, bottom, and middle of the bag equally impressed us by making it a breeze to lift and maneuver comfortably. While the nylon exterior material and padding feel sturdy and durable, the bag would likely only protect golf clubs against low-impact hits.

The Details: 51 x 15 x 14 inches | 8 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / David Engler

Most Durable

Club glove collegiate travel cover with stiff arm.

PGA Tour Superstore

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 4.9 /5

It comes with a stiff arm to protect the heads of the clubs.

Packing the clubs was a tight fit with the length.

Traveling by air with golf clubs can be risky considering the potential for rough handling that comes with checking in luggage, but the Club Glove Last Bag Collegiate Travel Cover with Stiff Arm is made of high-quality materials and includes a stiff arm that is designed to protect gear from hard impact. The adjustable stiff arm is made of nylon plastic and lightweight aluminum, and although it doesn’t take up much room, we had to jostle the bag to get the stiff arm in with the golf clubs. With the smaller-sized interior, we appreciated the two large exterior pockets that can fit items like shoes, clothing, or sunscreen. The fully-packed bag is comfortable to carry with top, bottom, and middle straps that evenly distribute the weight of the lengthy bag and we liked how it can stand up on its own.

After flying with this Club Glove design, there weren’t any scuffs or damage to the bag. The exterior of the bag is made of water-resistant ballistic nylon fabric and the backing has single webbing reinforcement — a common fabric used for climbing, military gear, and parachutes. 

The Details: 52 x 14 x 14 inches | 11.3 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Karen Chen

Best Portability

Izzo golf high roller.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Design 4.8 /5
• Durability 4 /5

There are six wheels on the bottom of the bag so it can be rolled upright. 

It feels slightly top-heavy.

The Izzo High Roller golf bag impressed us with how easy it was to transport by wheeling or carrying it. The six wheels on the bottom of the bag make it possible to push or pull it while standing upright. In addition, the bag can collapse down to just 12 inches for easy storage while traveling or at home.

While the bag felt a little top-heavy while being wheeled through an airport, the handles made it easy to lift and hold onto while rolling the bag. Even if the bag were to fall over, it has a solid amount of protective padding on the inside and outside, and it’s made of tear-resistant nylon that feels sturdy and durable. The interior of the bag is large enough for golf clubs and extra shirts, and the exterior pocket is big enough for a pair of golf shoes, but it was a tighter fit than we would’ve preferred. We think the Izzo High Roller bag is perfect for golfers who could benefit from having exceptional portability and durability while traveling through airports.

Dimensions: 53 x 16 x 12 inches | Weight: 8 pounds | Wheels: Yes | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Martin Schnurr

Best Hybrid

Caddydaddy golf travel bag cover with hard case top.

• Design 4 /5
• Portability 4 /5

Only the top half is hardshell, which makes storing the bag much easier.

It feels top-heavy while carrying.

The CaddyDaddy Enforcer Golf Travel Bag Cover with Hard Case Top is designed with traveling golfers in mind, especially those who live in big cities where storage space is limited. This golf bag has a unique design where the top half is a hardshell case and the bottom half is softside. The half hardshell gives you the protection you want for your clubs and we love how the bag can compress into itself, making it more space efficient for storing when not in use.

The exterior of the bag has two pockets for storing balls or shoes and although there aren’t any pockets on the inside, there was a good amount of room left over for clothes. Though the hardshell top makes it slightly top heavy, the bag maneuvers well on the inline skate wheels at the bottom, while the top, bottom, and center handle make it easy to lift the bag into a car or onto a weight scale at the airport. 

The Details: 51 x 13 x 13 inches | 9 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Allison Widmer

Best Lightweight

Tourtrek tc pro travel cover.

Dick's Sporting Goods

• Durability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

It feels lightweight whether it’s being pushed or pulled over a variety of surfaces.

The interior of the bag could be bigger.

The TourTrek TC Pro Travel Cover offers an abundance of protective padding and excellent portability. We think this bag is a fantastic value thanks to durable design and interior space that’s roomy enough for a set of golf clubs and two mesh pockets for accessories, as well as an exterior pocket for a pair of shoes. The cushioning is very generous and the bag feels protective and sturdy with 360-degree padding to keep your golf clubs safe whether you’re traveling by air or car. The handles are padded as well, making them comfortable to hold onto while lifting or rolling the bag. And it includes a lock and key set for an additional layer of security and peace of mind.

Weighing 6.6 pounds, this golf travel bag is lightweight and takes up less of the allotted 50-pound weight maximum that most airlines limit checked bags . While we think the interior could be a little bit bigger, this golf travel bag has high-quality features that lead us to believe it will protect golf clubs and last a long time with prolonged use, too. 

The Details: 52 x 14 x 14 inches | 6.6 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel & Leisure / Chris Abell

We had our expert product testers and golfers take 19 golf travel bags on the road to find out which ones will keep your clubs safe whether you’re flying or driving. Our testers evaluated the bags by flying, driving, walking around, and carrying the bags and rating various attributes on a scale from one to five based on capacity, design, durability, and portability. 

Our testers packed their golf clubs into the travel bags and noted how easy it was to place the clubs into them and if there was room leftover for clothes, shoes, golf balls, or other accessories between the main compartment and any pockets. While packing the bags, we checked the quality of the zippers and buckles, as well as how much padding there was and if it felt sufficient for protecting the clubs. The bags with the highest ratings for capacity were spacious with extra room leftover, and the best performing bags for design had thoughtful and intuitive features that had golfers in mind and made packing easier.

After packing up the travel bags, our traveling golfers tested portability by carrying and wheeling the bag to get a feel for how it maneuvers. The top performing bags for portability were exceptionally easy to lift and wheel with comfortable, padded straps and handles. Durability of the travel bags was tested when they were transported by airplane or car. Our five-star ratings for durability went to the travel bags that had no damage to the exterior or items on the interior after being used and gave us confidence that they would hold up well with prolonged use. The testers determined that the bags with the best value performed as or better than expected given the price, especially pricier bags that needed robust justification for the cost.

Other Golf Travel Bags We Liked

While there were plenty of well-performing golf travel bags, there were a few listed below that almost made our list of best golf travel bags but fell short during testing. 

Samsonite Golf Deluxe 3 Piece Travel Set : The bag is functional and has a sleek design, but there isn’t much padding and the zippers are plastic, which made us question the durability of the bag while flying. 

Samsonite Hard Side Golf Case : The hardshell feels durable, but there isn’t much give so it was a tight fit to get the golf clubs in, and the case is difficult to store since it can’t break down.

Amazon Basics Soft-sided Golf Travel Bag : This bag is very affordable, but has an unstructured bottom, so it can't stand up on its own.

SKB Cases ATA Deluxe Standard Hard Travel Golf Case : This case was built to withstand a lot of rough handling and includes TSA-approved locks, but can become heavy due to its thick plastic.

Bag Boy Golf T10 Hard Top Cover : For minimalist golfers, this simple bag fits just what you need, but won't give you room for extra equipment or gear.

Other Golf Gear You May Need

When you're heading out for a long day on the course, be sure you're prepared with everything you need from sunscreen to golf gloves to ensure you stay completely focused on enjoying the game.

Titleist Players Flex Men’s Golf Glove: These high-performance gloves are a classic for a reason. The cabretta leather is silky smooth, offering optimal comfort and breathability, so your hands won't sweat mid-swing. Plus, the Satin Net materials across the knuckles provide plenty of flexibility.

Peter Millar Solid Performance Jersey Polo : If you're someone who gets caught up in the game and forgets to reapply sunscreen, this golf shirt is for you. Not only is it made of moisture-wicking materials in 13 vibrant colors, but it provides UPF 50+ sun protection as well, so you can stay safe without even thinking about it.

Adidas Men's Tour360 22 Golf Shoes : These shoes provide excellent cushioning to keep you comfortable all day long, and still feature 11 metal spikes for traction and grip. They're also designed with roomy toe boxes and heel reinforcement to ensure your foot stays in place.

Wilson Sleeveless Club Dress : This stylish golf dress is made with four-way stretch fabric that is breathable and feels good even in extreme heat. It also features hidden and roomy pockets so you can store any essentials you may want ready and on-hand.

Tips for Buying a Golf Travel Bag

Consider buying a stiff arm .

Whether you’re buying a hardshell or softside golf travel bag, a stiff arm can add another layer of protection to your golf clubs. A stiff arm is usually an adjustable metal rod with a plastic disc at the the top of it that extends longer than the driver or longest golf club. The rod is placed into a golf bag to absorb the hit if the bag is tossed around and prevent the clubs from being directly impacted. 

Hardshell versus softside 

When looking for a travel golf bag, you'll want to look at durability and padding. Both hardshell and softside golf travel bags can prevent damage to your golf clubs while traveling and are a worthwhile investment for golfers that travel several times per year. A hardshell suitcase can get more scuffed than a softside golf bag, but you might not need to buy a stiff arm since a plastic case offers a more structured layer of protection. Whereas a softside bag might need extra protection like a stiff arm, it’s easier to store a soft bag than a bulky hardshell case that can’t be folded down. Some airlines will only cover damaged or lost clubs that are in a hardshell case, so be sure to check with the airline to find out the policies. 

Look at the types of wheels

From upright wheels to inline skate wheels, golf bags are created with a variety of options to make transport easier for all types of players. You should look at wheels that will smoothly and easily roll over different terrains without adding weight to the overall bag.

You’ll want to make sure your golf bag and clubs can fit in a travel bag. While you don’t want to squeeze your clubs inside, you won’t want them swimming in a roomy case either. If there is extra room in your travel bag, stuffing the sides with clothes or towels can help keep everything in place, especially if you’re flying. If your club heads can be removed and covered, that can further prevent damage to your gear. 

Every airline will be different but most follow the same policies as regular check-in luggage regarding weight and size limitations. The weight limit for check-in luggage, including golf clubs, is almost always 50 pounds or less. If your bag weighs more, there will likely be a surcharge fee. Airlines also have different restrictions and policies for packing golf shoes or balls in your bag, and coverage for lost golf bags can be dependent on the type of golf travel bag. For peace of mind, consider securing an AirTag holder with a tracker to your golf bag.

Generally, airlines do not pay travelers for damaged golf clubs. Some, like American Airlines , may compensate if the equipment traveled in a hard-sided case that is visibly damaged and was properly packed, but you should always check your specific airline's policies before flying to guarantee safe and secure travel.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at Travel + Leisure , where she writes and reviews travel products. She has been travel writing since 2018 and product testing since 2021. Anna worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best golf travel bags based on a series of tests completed by our testers while using the golf travel bags in a real-world setting. 

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Israel-Gaza latest: Israeli president Isaac Herzog thanks Joe Biden after far-right minister's 'irresponsible' comments

Joe Biden has said he will not supply weapons if Israel launches a full-scale offensive in Rafah, a day after it emerged the US had paused a shipment of bombs to Israel. Listen to our Daily podcast on why a ceasefire hasn't happened while you scroll.

Friday 10 May 2024 00:47, UK

• Israel-Hamas war
• Biden: US will not supply weapons if Israel invades Rafah
• Alistair Bunkall analysis: Biden's reputation is on the line if Netanyahu defies him
• Homes reduced to rubble in Rafah after Israeli shelling
• Israeli president thanks Biden after far-right minister's 'irresponsible' comments  
• Listen to the Daily above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts
• Live reporting by Bhvishya Patel

That's all for our live coverage for the moment. 

Our regular updates will continue tomorrow. 

UK forces have airdropped 110 tonnes of aid for Gaza civilians today. 

The RAF completed its 11th airdrop today, which include ready-to-eat meals, water, rice, tinned goods and flour, from 120 parachutes.

The aid was dropped along the northern coastline of Gaza. 

The UK began conducting airdrops in late March, as part of the Jordanian international initiative. 

Defence secretary Grant Shapps said the UK's commitment to delivering large quantities of aid to those most in need was "unwavering".

"Given the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, we deployed RFA Cardigan Bay to the Eastern Mediterranean to support efforts to build a temporary pier to deliver crucial humanitarian assistance," he said.

By Mark Stone , US correspondent

All decisions have intended consequences and unintended consequences. 

The intended consequence of President Biden's threat to stop sending some weapons to Israel is straightforward: to stop the Israeli military from going into Rafah without a clear, deliverable plan for the civilian population. 

But there are so many unintended consequences. 

Both geopolitically and domestically for President Biden this decision could come to haunt him. 

Even before we consider the unintended consequence, there is a key point: the perils of setting red lines. 

Too often they turn out to be flawed tools of geo-political diplomacy.

What if Netanyahu bulldozes through the red line and invades Rafah?

He's probably got enough American weapons in storage to do that. 

Will Biden stick to his threat to pull weapons delivery? Or will he relent? What message will both of those choices send, far and wide?

That brings us on to the unintended consequences. First, the regional consequences:

• Could there be a greater numbers of civilian casualties? If Netanyahu continues with his Rafah operation but with a dwindling supply of American weapons (so-called smart bombs) then he will use less sophisticated "dumb bombs". This could cause even more civilian casualties;
• What message does it sends regionally? That America could be seen to abandon Israel (despite that not being what Biden said) will not be lost on countries around the world. It suggests that America is flaky with its alliances. For months, Biden has dismissed calls to limit weapons supplies. Now he's U-turned. Gulf countries already wonder about the stability of America as an ally. While they will agree with his announcement last night, the wider message it sends will resonate;
• Does it embolden Iran? Limiting weapons to its oldest Middle Eastern ally at a time of profound danger for Israel is being seen by some as a gift for Tehran;
• What impact will it have on ceasefire negotiations? It's logical that Hamas may see this decision as weakening Israel and may therefore hold out in the ongoing negotiations to get more out of them.

Then there are the domestic political consequences. 

They were spelt out by his presidential opponent, Donald Trump who said: "What Biden is doing with respect to Israel is disgraceful. If any Jewish person voted for Joe Biden, they should be ashamed of themselves. He's totally abandoned Israel and nobody can believe it."

President Biden has already alienated key sections of the voter population with his existing Gaza policy. 

By supporting Netanyahu unequivocally, he has angered key Arab-American populations in places like Michigan - a state he needs to win in November. Beyond that, students (many of whom would be natural Biden voters) say they now can't vote for him and "genocide Joe" is their cry.

Now, with his weapons announcement, he risks alienating Jewish-American voters too. Many are deeply angry at what they see as an abandonment of the Jewish State.

His badly articulated insistence that he will still have Israel's back in terms of defence will be lost on many voters. They see only the headline. 

Remember too that pretty much all Republicans are against every lever he pulls to rein in Israel; they want nothing less than unequivocal support for Israel. 

More than that though - a significant number of his own Democrats are also uneasy about America limiting weapons for Israel. Only the progressive left of his party support his move.

It is a perilous political push-me-pull-you and the election is six months away.

Joe Biden has said that he will not supply offensive weapons that Israel could use to launch an all-out assault on Rafah.

He said that the US was still committed to Israel's defence and would supply iron dome rocket interceptors and other defensive arms but that if Israel goes into Rafah, "we're not going to supply the weapons and artillery shells used".

Here, our Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall takes a deeper look at what the warning means...

The leader of Yemen's Houthis has said the group will target ships of any company related to supplying or transporting goods to Israel regardless of their destination.

Abdul Malik al-Houthi said this was a fourth stage of escalation in retaliation to "the Israeli aggression on Rafah" in southern Gaza.

"From now on, we are also thinking about the fifth stage and the sixth stage, and we have very important, sensitive and influential choices on the enemies," he added.

For context : Months of Houthi attacks in the Red Sea have disrupted global shipping, forcing firms to re-route to longer and more expensive journeys around southern Africa, and stoked fears that the Israel-Hamas war could spread to destabilise the wider Middle East.

The United States and Britain have carried out strikes against Houthi targets in response to the attacks on shipping.

Joe Biden is "stuck between a rock and a hard place" when it comes to his Israel policy, former White House director of global engagement has said. 

Speaking to Sky News, Brett Bruen said the US leader was heading into a "crucial series of political months" as he entered another presidential race and the war "has just been a massive headache".

"The position that Biden is taking in some ways is political posturing, he is trying to dissuade Netanyahu from doing a full on invasion," he said.

"Yet at the same time Netanyahu is not showing any signs of letting up."

Mr Bruen said Mr Netanyahu had "somewhat painted himself into a corner".

He added: "Domestically he is increasingly unpopular as a result of the 7 October attacks and the way he has put the US- Israel relationship in danger.

"Yesterday's comments by Biden will be costly for Netanyahu and his political standing in the country and yet he still has to contend with the fact that there are those on the Israeli right who are saying 'you have got to move forward'.

"There are no good options for Netanyahu either."

The Israeli president has publicly thanked Joe Biden after one of the country's outspoken ministers said "Hamas loves Biden".

Itamar Ben-Gvir, the national security minister, made the comment after the US president said he would halt offensive weapons sales to Israel if it invades Rafah (see post at 9.02am).

In response, Isaac Herzog, the president, said it was important that even when there are disagreements and moments of disappointment between friends and allies, "there is a way to clarify the disputes".

"It is beholden upon all of us to avoid baseless, irresponsible and insulting statements and tweets that harm the national security and the interests of the state of Israel," he said.

Mr Herzog also said he wanted to take the opportunity to thank Israel's "greatest ally, the US".

"I would like to say thank you to President Biden, who is a great friend of the state of Israel, and who proved as such from the first day of the war," he said.

We have been reporting today on Joe Biden's warning that the US would stop supplying weapons if Israeli forces conduct a full-scale offensive in Rafah. 

It marked his strongest language to date on the issue.

But can Israel achieve its aims without US weapons?

Our military analyst Sean Bell says "it's very likely they can". 

"Although the US has said it is pausing the supply of weapons, it's not going to stop supplying defensive weapons," he says.

Bell says Israel will have "significant stockpiles" and will use those if the decision is made to go into Rafah. 

"Rafah is a relatively small area as well so it looks unlikely to have any significant military effect."

Bell says Mr Biden's comments are more likely a "political statement".

"The International Court of Justice said Israel needs to do more to protect the civilian population and any nation that provides weapons to a country which then uses them in violation of international law also becomes vulnerable," he says.

"I think this is a really clear statement from President Biden.

"He doesn't want to get tarnished with that brush as all.

"I don't think there will be a military impact but I do think this is a reflection of the frustration Biden is feeling with the actions of Netanyahu."

Joe Biden's weapons threat "practically buries a hostage deal at this point", a source close to the Israeli leader has told Sky News.

The US president warned overnight that the US would halt the supply of some weapons to Israel if it launches a full-scale invasion of Rafah.

IDF international spokesperson Nadav Shoshani has issued a statement in response to reports aid is not getting into Gaza.

In a statement on X, Mr Shoshani said Israel closed the Kerem Shalom border crossing after four IDF soldiers were killed.

The crossing was reopened and Hamas "fired rockets at the crossing several times again".

"Hamas has a pattern of risking civilians for their terrorist agenda," he said.

Yesterday, Israel insisted the border crossing, which allows aid into Gaza, had reopened but the UN said deliveries have still not been allowed through. 

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