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Think Traveling Carry-on Is Impossible? Read This

Packing , Packing Tips

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Think traveling carry-on only is impossible? No more excuses! Read this.

Traveling Carry-on

I know how you feel. You think traveling carry-on only is completely unrealistic. I mean, how can you have everything you need in one tiny little suitcase, especially when you’re traveling for a really long time?

Well, I am about to share my top secrets with you. Things that will change the way you think about packing for a trip. The shortcuts that will transform the way you pack and shock those that criticize your infamous habits of overpacking.

And even if you already travel carryon, I guarantee these strategies are a game changer. Read this:

Pack Light Stylishly Ebook

The Capsule Wardrobe

The very first thing you need to do is master the art of creating a capsule wardrobe. Without this, you’ll never stop overpacking.

The main factors to consider when planning a capsule wardrobe for travel are:

• Each piece can be worn in various settings
• All items must mix and match
• All colors should work well together
• Shoes should be neutral and suitable for all outfits
• Weather should be taken into consideration

We have three super helpful FREE resources that will help guide you through this process:

1.   Four Customizable Capsule Wardrobes for Travel : Choose from summer or winter examples, featuring six to fifteen items per set. You won’t believe how many outfits you can make with just ten pieces of clothing!

2.  Travel Wardrobe Essentials : This free guide shows you exactly how to choose the right clothing for travel. Spoiler alert: no convertible pants required!

       3.   Download our FREE printable packing list .  Not only can you print it, but you can customize it and save it, too!

Want to learn everything about how to make a capsule wardrobe for travel ASAP? Read our ebook  Pack Light Stylishly !

Round Clear Jars

Downsizing Toiletries

The biggest mistake travelers make with toiletries is not considering how much product they actually use. There are four key steps when it comes to downsizing your toiletries properly for a trip:

• Find combination items . You can find two-in-one shampoos and conditioners, body cleanser that can double as shave gel, a foldable brush with a mirror attached on the handle, and  multi-use makeup products .
• Purchase empty containers  of various shapes and sizes and DO NOT default to choosing “travel size 100ml or 3oz” options. These and these are the best travel containers.
• Stick to the basics . Simplify your skincare and pampering routine and bring a  capsule makeup collection . It’s only temporary.
• Replace liquid beauty products with solids.  While  solid toiletries  may not help you downsize they will help you meet the carryon  3-1-1 liquids rule .
• Choose the right toiletry bag.  These are the  best toiletry bags  and these are the  best  hanging  toiletry bags .

For useful tips such as downsizing toiletries and choosing the best travel makeup, read our  Ultimate Guide to Packing Toiletries . It includes a free printable checklist!

Compass Rose Carryon Packing Cubes

Pro Packing Strategies

To pack like a pro, you need to know our secrets. Follow these guidelines:

Start with luggage. If you don’t already own a suitcase, choose one wisely. Read these tips on how to pick a suitcase and consider one of the top brands recommended by travel experts. I use and recommend the Osprey Ozone .

If you’re going on an adventurous trip, learn how to choose the best travel backpack here .

Use packing organizers. Do you want to know the ultimate tool to travel in a carryon? PACKING CUBES! They changed everything for me and thousands of other travelers. See my video tutorial  on how to use them. Trust me, they are a must!

Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube !

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

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

Buy Compass Rose Packing Cubes here !

Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack

Use tried and tested packing strategies. I’ve recently taken on a few extreme packing challenges to show you that packing carry-on only is possible for any trip. If I can pack like an ultra-minimalist (with style, of course) then you can pack more comfortably in a regular carry-on.

Watch these packing videos to learn more:

• Luggage-Free Travel: One Week in My Favorite Purse
• What’s in My Bag: 4 Weeks Carry-on Only

I’m a full-time traveler who’s been on the road for over eight years. If I can travel carry-on only for my indefinite travels (that means months and even years at a time) then you can do it, too!

And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “ Stop Overpacking “. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.

Learn more about Stop Overpacking here !

I hope this gives you a better idea about how I manage to pack carry-on only.

Got any packing questions for me? Post them in the comments!

For more insight into my personal packing strategy as a long-term traveler, please read:

• Tired of Overpacking? Read this.
• 10 Steps to Traveling with One Bag
• My Secret for Carry-on Travel
• My Packing Secrets! Do I Really Travel Carry-on Only?

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The Best Carry-On Luggage, According to 20 Well-Traveled Women

By Talia Abbas

Hear that? It's the sound of airports filling up with chatty (though still masked) travelers and the greased wheels of their very best carry-on luggage gliding over the terminal floors. After a year-plus of not seeing the inside of a plane, navigating through jam-packed terminals is no doubt stressful—but not as much as shoving an array of dresses , bikinis , sandals , beauty products , and face masks into a suitcase that's seen some things and may fall apart at any moment.

So we asked the pros: 20 real women, from editors to brand founders, who travel like it's, well, their job—and therefore know the value of a solid carry-on bag. We asked them to share the styles they always bring along, no matter where they're going or for how long. Whether you use a folding method that would make Marie Kondo proud or adhere to a "throw everything in and zip it up" philosophy, these top picks will turn you into a carry-on-at-all-costs kind of traveler.

From expandable soft-shell suitcases to lightweight carry-ons with massive exterior pockets, read on for the best carry-on luggage, according to women who've probably racked up more frequent-flier miles in the last month than you did pre-pandemic. Bon voyage!

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Calpak x Jen Atkin Carry-On Luggage

Reshma Chattaram Chamberlin , cofounder of the travel-minded clothing and swimwear brand Summersalt , is based in St. Louis but travels almost every week for work. If that weren't enough, she's always down for a quick weekend trip for a change of pace, be it a one-hour drive outside the city or 48 hours in Dubai, Milan, Mumbai, or Bangkok. Whatever her destination, she's never without her Calpak x Jen Atkin Carry-On. “It glides really well and is a bit smaller than traditional carry-ons,” she says. “I'm a petite person and I need something that moves with me.”

Tumi V4 Continental 4-Wheeled Expandable Carry-On

Huda Beauty founder Huda Kattan is no stranger to the inside of an airplane. Between work and family trips, she travels about twice a month and often long-distance. Kattan says Tumi is her favorite luggage brand because the pieces are reliable and make traveling easier. “I have the large luggage in black with our family initials on it, so I always know what’s ours at the airport,” she says. “We have quite a few of these, so all of our things are uniform and easy to find!” For her rolling carry-on, she alternates between a transparent Off-White x Rimowa and a black Tumi carry-on to match her monogrammed set. 

Rimowa Cabin Bag

Born in Bahrain and raised in London, fashion designer Misha Nonoo , founder and CEO of her eponymous label, is known for her emphasis on sustainability. She moved to New York about 10 years ago but travels frequently, from short work trips to long holidays. “I’ve taken some amazing trips to Egypt, Italy, and Greece in the past that have been about a couple weeks,” she says. Her trusted companion? The Rimowa Cabin bag. “It’s lightweight but still incredibly durable," she says. She's also the last person to overpack, explaining, “I’ve streamlined my wardrobe with our Easy 8 collection , so packing key pieces that are highly versatile is how I keep things minimal.” 

Away The Carry-On

“I usually travel a lot for work, and [in pre-pandemic times] average one or two trips a month," says Lale Arikoglu , senior editorial operations manager at Condé Nast Traveler and cohost of the Women Who Travel podcast. “In terms of length of trip, it’s been anywhere from 10 days in Colombia to whirlwind weekends in cities like Portland or Chicago.” But no matter where she’s headed, she brings her Away Carry-on. “Sure, pretty much everyone in the airport seems to have one now, but they are so well-designed that I genuinely believe that they have made me a better packer," she says. The other piece of luggage she cannot live without is her Paravel fold-up bag . “It zips up into a small pouch when you’re not using it, and then opens up into a full-size duffel when you need it to.” 

By Nuria Luis

By Sam Reed

By Emily Tannenbaum

Briggs & Riley Domestic Carry-On

Briggs & Riley

As a freelance travel writer, Annie Daly is on the road most of the year. She's based in NYC's Brooklyn Heights neighborhood, but traveled around the world to do research for her book, Destination Wellness , which came out in May 2021. “Given the amount that I travel, I should definitely be Team Light Packer by now. But I'm not!” she says. Her favorite luggage is a black Briggs & Riley softside carry-on with roomy front pockets her mom gave her as a Christmas present a few years ago. “I like it as a suitcase, but I like it even more for sentimental reasons," she says. "She even put a yellow ribbon on it so that I'd always recognize my bag on the conveyor belt!”

Tumi International Carry-On

Aishwarya S. Iyer , founder of Brightland Olive Oil , is probably the only person who loves a 5 a.m. flight, which she takes about once a month between Los Angeles and New York. Since she's gone for only two or three days at a time, she packs light. Meaning: She's good to go with just her roll-on Tumi and a Fjällräven Kånken backpack . 

Paravel The Aviator Carry-On

Paravel cofounder, CEO, and creative director Indré Rockefeller is based in New York City and travels twice a month, mostly for work. It goes without saying her favorite carry-on luggage is made by Paravel. “I worked for over a year on developing the perfect piece of luggage and I’m so happy it’s finally here," she says. "It has amazing wheels, zippers, and handles, but it’s also sustainably manufactured, using recycled polycarbonate, recycled aircraft-grade aluminum, recycled YKK zippers, and a luxurious lining made from postconsumer recycled plastic water bottles.” It's her pride and joy, especially since she only ever travels with a carry-on. Another pro tip: She stays organized with packing cubes . 

Rimowa Original Trunk in Titanium

Bloomingdale's

Writer Fariha Roisin travels at least once a month, and while she was on her How to Cure a Ghost book tour in 2020, she was gone for two and a half weeks at a time. In general, she considers herself a light packer—on the clothing front at least. “Somehow I'm always carrying five books, but I also inevitably buy books while I'm away, so 10 books later...I'm pretty heavy,” she says. While she counts on her Away carry-on, she's just about ready to upgrade to this this metallic set from Rimowa.

Samsonite Lift 2 21" Spinner

In addition to exploring more than 70 countries for fun, CEO, angel investor, and author Kim Perell spends about 80% of her time traveling for work. She takes pride in being a light packer, and travels only with a carry-on luggage. “My Samsonite suitcase is great because it’s lightweight, has great capacity, and glides easily through the airport," she says.

Born and raised in Australia, Molly Goddard, cofounder of the luxury sleepwear brand Desmond & Dempsey, says her dream is to walk onto a plane carrying nothing. But in reality, she's usually lugging laptops, sample pajamas, and the occasional painting she's picked up for a project. She takes two big trips a year to find inspiration for her collections; destinations can be anywhere from the English countryside to Morocco and Mexico. Still, she's a light packer and loves her Away carry-on. “I have learned the less you take, the more you can take home," she says. "Keeping things light also means getting ready is a breeze while you are traveling.” 

REI Co-Op Tourwinder Rolling Luggage

As the owner of Living Big Travel , a boutique women’s travel company, Mary Cecchini is on the road 20 weeks a year, for up to 14 days at a time. Because she travels so much for research, she packs like a pro and swears by REI luggage: “I have a few pieces in various sizes. The bags have one large flexible cavity—so my ninja packing skills can really shine—and there are large hand straps on the top and sides, which is ideal for moments I need to quickly pick up my bag to catch a train or run up a flight of stairs. The straps are longer than most bags, which makes it much easier to carry—and carry unassisted, which is ideal for solo travel!.”

Paravel Fold-Up Bag

Meredith Carey , travel bookings commerce editor at Condé Nast Traveler and cohost of the Women Who Travel podcast, is based in New York City and travels about twice a month. Wherever she's headed, it's with a matchy-matchy Away luggage set in hunter green. And in case she goes overboard while shopping, she says her new must-bring item is the Paravel fold-up bag , in—you guessed it—hunter green. “It packs down to about the size of a book but is sturdy enough when unzipped that I don’t have to worry about it ripping if I fill it with my heavier purchases," she says.

Tumi Tegra Lite Max International Expandable 4-Wheeled Carry-On Luggage

Carly Van Sickle , director of global brand marketing for The Luxury Collection , pretty much lives on planes. In 2019 alone, she traveled to Sri Lanka, India, Spain, Morocco, and the Seychelles—not to mention a few domestic trips in between to visit hotel properties for work. Still, no matter the length of her trip, she uses only her Tumi carry-on. She loves that it’s expandable because, she says, “no matter where I travel in the world, I always pick up a few special pieces from the destination for my team and for my desk!

iFly Medium Fibertech Luggage

Since appearing on The Bachelo r, Hannah Godwin travels up to three times a month and can be gone for two weeks at a time. Her suitcases vary in sizes, but she swears by the bold and colorful luggage from iFly. “They’re super-durable and come in the cutest colors," she says. She's constantly looking for new tips and tricks to pack lighter, but admits it's sometimes just a stress reliever to pack a few extra outfit options.

On her most recent trip to New York, Claire Vero , the Surrey, England–based founder of Aurelia Skincare , says she bought an Away suitcase, which she's now in love with. “The charging function is a godsend and I love their designs. I want to add to my collection with one for each of the children, and my husband too,” she says. Although she moved from South London to the countryside a year ago, she still travels regularly for work (namely New York, Paris, Copenhagen, and Rome) and likes to leave a little room in her luggage for retail therapy. 

Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase

Net-a-Porter

Glamour 's acting commerce editor, Deanna Pai, is morally opposed to paying to check a bag after springing for a flight, which is why she packs a carry-on no matter how long the trip. (The secret? Laundromats.) This sturdy Calpak number has seen her through weeks-long trips abroad, destination weddings, and stressful combinations of the two. “The interior divider makes it easy to keep everything organized, and I love how lightweight it is—I never have any trouble lifting it into the overhead bin," she says.

Paravel Weekender

As a self-professed chronic over-packer, Condé Nast Traveler 's commerce editor Madison Flager says she loves to bring Paravel's Weekender bag as her personal item on flights. “It's a great size for overnight trips, and surprisingly roomy. It fits all the essentials—laptop, books and magazines, wallet, chapstick, and keys—with room to spare for last-minute odds and ends , like a sweater for the plane, extra pair of sandals , or even my Dopp kit , depending on how jam-packed my suitcase is.” Flager says the bag is also incredibly well-designed, both aesthetically and functionally: It has a trolley sleeve, adjustable and removable crossbody strap, and deep interior pocket—not to mention, it's made using upcycled plastic water bottles. “I always feel more put-together when I'm bringing this bag along,” she says.

FPM 55 Bank Light Cabin Spinner Carry-On Suitcase

Saks Fifth Avenue

As of June 2021, writer, editor, and brand consultant Adrienne Faurote is back to her usual “crazy travel schedule.” Think New York City for 24 hours, then off to the Hamptons, Miami, and a quick visit home in Indiana—not to mention a slew of fall weddings . “I really feel like travel has resumed and airports are a bit hectic right now, which is why I'm only taking a carry-on to avoid checking a bag,” she says. She converted to hardshell styles about six years ago, and says she'll never look back. “As a fashion editor, I love packing clothes, and the beauty of a hardshell carry-on is I can pack all of my clothes and accessories with the ease of knowing it will always fit in the overhead compartment.” She has packing down to a science—her secret is these packing cubes —and is never without her FPM carry-on. “It checks all of my boxes,” she says, explaining that “it's lightweight, extremely durable, and can fit a lot more clothing than you think at first glance—while being an incredibly chic travel piece.” 

Paravel Main Line Duffle

Whenever Brooklyn-based Meghan Donovan , founder of  Paris, Perfected  and the blogger behind wit & whimsy , travels to Paris, she always brings a largely empty duffel bag as a carry-on with her “to account for any shopping I plan to do.” Her favorite is the  Paravel Main Line Duffel  because “its size ensures I won't go overboard but is also roomy enough while still being lightweight and stylish.” We couldn't agree more.

Open Story Hardside Carry On Suitcase

A water-resistant carry-on spinner is a nonnegotiable for Talia Abbas , Glamour 's associate commerce editor, who travels multiple times a year back home to Italy and Belgium—where it rains pretty much all the time. “It's where I put my most valuable items, in addition to outfit changes—think a pair of j eans , sports bra and leggings , some undies , and sock — in case my checked luggage gets lost." The water-repellent polycarbonate shell also minimizes wear and tear, she adds. One of her favorites is this compact rose-gold hardside spinner suitcase from Target's in-house brand Open Story, featuring a built-in USB port and 10-year warranty. “The size is perfect for budget European flights with size restrictions, and though it looks small, there's ample packing space in the main compartments and zippered mesh pockets to fit everything from blazers in garment bags to errant chargers, toiletries, and jewelry pouches,” she says. It even comes with a divider, TSA combination lock, and small laundry bag. At $150, the price is also really reasonable: “I'm never worried about scratches or scuffs when I shove it into the overhead bin, and the spinner wheels roll like a dream,” Abbas says.

By Macaela MacKenzie

By Jenny McCoy

By Perri Ormont Blumberg

By Brie Schwartz

The Best Carry-On Luggage, According to Frequent Travelers

Eight expert-approved picks for any getaway.

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

To track down the best carry-on luggage for our return to traveling, we're turning to the experts. Here, eight travel pros including writers, TV hosts, and photographers share the carry-on luggage they can't travel without. With thousands of collective frequent-flier miles between them, this group knows which bags can carry you through any itinerary and always fit in the overhead compartment. See the carry-on bags travel experts always pack, then order yours for your next trip.

Oneika Raymond, travel journalist and Travel Channel host

"My current carry-on of choice is the Carry-On Flex by Away. This hard-side suitcase is both stylish (I own one in bright yellow!) and practical—it's durable but lightweight enough to bring on all my global adventures. My favorite feature is the little laundry bag that comes tucked inside the inner pocket, as it allows me to separate my dirty clothes from my clean ones when I'm on the go! Its compact design is also very convenient for frequent travelers; it's a true carry-on size that fits in most aircraft cabins." — @oneikatraveller

Away The Bigger Carry-On Flex

Annette Richmond, writer, activist, and founder of Fat Girls Traveling

"I love to travel with a backpack, because I feel like it helps with my posture and balance, and I'm newly obsessed with the Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 30L Pack. As a plus-size traveler, my clothes take up more space, so I rarely travel with just a carry-on. Some of the new airline rules are making the free carry-on bag a thing of the past. I used to bring a roller luggage as my carry-on, but some airlines (United) are only allowing a free personal item and charge a fee for anything more. Which is why my Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 30L Pack is perfect! Not only can it easily carry my laptop, magazines, a book, my toiletries, and a packing cube with a change of clothes in the main compartment, I can fit my snacks and face shield in the exterior stretch mesh pocket and a refillable water bottle in one of the two side mesh pockets. My favorite part is the hidden interior pocket on the back panel. It's the perfect place to put your passport, boarding pass, pen, and phone. This hidden pocket is also the pouch that holds the entire bag, so once you get to your destination and unpack this 30-liter backpack, it folds and zips up into a small square." — @fatgirlstraveling

Eddie Bauer Stowaway 30L Packable Pack

Francesca Murray, travel journalist

"One of my favorite carry-on bags for travel is the Catalina Deluxe by Lo & Sons. It's the perfect size for a weekend trip , or as an addition to a checked bag. I love how it has a pass-through sleeve so I can slide it on top of my luggage, as well as a separate bottom compartment where I can place shoes or my tripods when I'm traveling for work. It's made with organic cotton canvas, so it's durable and lightweight, which is really important for short trips. It's also really stylish! I have it in dove gray, and it pairs nicely with most of my other suitcases." — @onegrloneworld

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

Kellee Edwards, travel journalist and TV host

"My current go-to bag is my Travelpro x Travel + Leisure Compact Carry-On Expandable Spinner that I found out about online. It not only fits in any overhead compartment (including regional jets), but it also has three internal zipper compartments and a removable zip-off toiletry bag! Since I'm also a pilot who flies single-engine aircraft and seaplanes, this carry-on fits easily in the small cargo area for luggage or in the back seat, and provides reassurance that my bag will never be too heavy for weight and balance purposes." — @kelleesetgo

Travelpro x Travel + Leisure Compact Carry-On Expandable Spinner

Ciara Johnson, travel writer

"My favorite carry-on at the moment is The Bigger Carry-On with Pocket. It's slightly bigger than your average carry-on, while still being in compliance with carry-on baggage limits. I own the black, so it's extremely simple yet sleek. It comes with a portable charger, and I also love the fact that it has an easily accessible front pocket for my laptop, travel documentation, et cetera." — @hey_ciara

Away The Bigger Carry-On with Pocket

Preethi Chandrasekhar, travel writer and photographer

"As a freelance travel writer and photographer, my job takes me to cabins, Airbnbs, glamping tents, hotels, you name it. I also often have assignments with tight deadlines, so I can't afford the luxury of a lost bag. Hence, carry-on is critical for me. The Lojel Cubo in size small is perfect for keeping with me on a flight or on road trips, because it is super compact. It also has a clever front compartment designed for easy access in small spaces. And it's expandable. I can fit my laptops in the front compartment and all my clothes in the main compartment, so technically I don't even need to carry a separate bag or backpack.

"I became familiar with the Lojel brand when I was browsing Instagram, and then I did some research and decided to try this out. I chose the bright-mustard color, because it makes me happy whenever I look at it. Who says luggage has to be boring?" — @eagertravele

Lojel Cubo Small

Nneya Richards, travel writer and stylist

"After three decades of traveling (yes, I'm counting when I was a toddler and carried Barbie roll-ons), I've finally found my perfect one-two travel combo in my Away luggage classic carry-on and my Salvatore Ferragamo Large Batik vintage carry-on tote. I bought it from the brand many years ago, and several friends have since tried to snag it or buy it from me.

Traveling both for work and pleasure, I've struggled to find a sleek, timeless bag that was the right fit. I've tried similar style carry-ons since purchasing [Away's], but the size of both the clothing side and the shoes and accessories [side] makes it the perfect bag for everything from a weekend trip to a week long. My Ferragamo tote is the Pippen to my Away Jordan. It is the perfect size for both my laptop and camera, as well as flight essentials like a Scaglione coverall knit and cashmere socks. But, despite being a Mary Poppins-style carryall, the size is still comfortable enough to fit under the seat in front of you, into an overhead bin, and on top of your rolling suitcase. I've flown private to EasyJet and five continents with these two pieces and couldn't recommend them more." — @nneya

Salvatore Ferragamo Tweed Tote

Georgia Hopkins, founder of It's Beautiful Here

"My favorite carry-on bag for travel is the Large Metro Tote Deluxe by MZ Wallace in New York. I found this bag via Garance Dore at a retreat we went to in Marrakech back in 2017. I love these bags so much because they are so soft and light, they don't weigh you down while traveling , and they hold so much. I pop my laptop in there, my chargers, some books, magazines, passport, et cetera. It's totally foldable and packable, and never loses its shape." — @_itsbeautifulhere

MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote Deluxe

Halie LeSavage is the fashion commerce editor at Harper's BAZAAR . Her style reporting covers everything from reviewing the best designer products to profiling emerging brands and designers. Previously, she was the founding retail writer at Morning Brew and a fashion associate at Glamour .

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

By Madison Flager

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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

What we considered:

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

This article is part of Condé Nast Traveler' s first-ever Luggage Week , for which dozens of suitcases, backpacks, and weekender bags were road-tested by our editors.

What size can a carry-on bag be?

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

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

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

What can’t I take in my carry-on?

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

Are carry-on bags free?

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

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines

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

• United Airlines

Top recommendations:

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

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

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

Luggage brand Paravel has built a dedicated following thanks to its retro Wes Anderson–style designs and use of sustainable materials. The Aviator Carry-On is no different: Available in shades like scout tan, safari green, and scuba navy, it has a recycled polycarbonate shell, recycled zippers, and an interior lining made from 15 upcycled plastic water bottles. It's a favorite of senior editor Megan Spurrell : “This is one of two carry-on roller bags I have used regularly for nearly three years—we’ve traveled everywhere from Lisbon to Mexico City to Los Angeles together.” Spurrell has used it for weeklong trips, and notes that it's still in good shape after years of use: “It has definitely gotten scratched up from being thrown into the hull of planes (I have checked it before, even though it’s carry-on), but it has held up well otherwise—there are no cracks in the shell, zipper issues despite how much I have stuffed it, nor sticky wheels.” The one minor flaw: The top handle placement is a bit counterintuitive, placed on the side of the suitcase further from your body.

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

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

With a pretty, ribbed design and thoughtful features like a cushioned silicone grip on the handle, you wouldn't guess this is one of the most affordable suitcases on our list. It's been tested by commerce producer Paris Wilson , who used it to pack for her and her boyfriend on a weeklong trip to the Florida Keys; with the help of the expandable zipper, it fit at least 14 outfits as well as four pairs of shoes and two purses. The wheels have stood up to bumpy roads—“We live in downtown Manhattan where cobblestone streets are a staple and we still managed to make it to the subway without any hangups”—and the included pouches come in handy for dirty clothes or even souvenirs. “I’m tempted to buy the remaining luggage to create a set; I would recommend this to anyone who's interested in building their luggage collection but might not know where to start.”

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

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

Away recently upgraded a few of its core suitcases, including The Bigger Carry-On. Updates include an additional zipper compartment, a color-matched interior made of recycled polyester, and an underside grab handle for easy overhead bin lifting. Tested by editorial assistant Jessica Chapel , who has taken it on a flight to New Mexico, a bus ride to New Jersey, and in cars on weekend trips from New York, it's one of the lighter bags on the list at under eight pounds. Compared to her previous suitcase, “It does wonders. Prior to this luggage I often traveled with a checked bag. I can fit almost as much in this suitcase, and it's way more practical—and feels more swift, given the 360-degree wheels.”

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

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

July calls this the lightest double-wheel suitcase in the world, and it is the lightest we've tested here at Traveler at just under four pounds when empty. Research director Alexandra Sanidad has brought it on planes to Phoenix, Arizona, and Portland, Oregon, and on an Amtrak to Woodstock, New York; she says “it's very cute and fits nicely in tight spaces,” and is a “good price for a sturdy, colorful, functional suitcase.” As for what it fits, light packers can fit a week’s worth of clothing in here; if you’re bringing multiple day and night outfits, plan for a weekend’s worth.

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

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

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

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

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

This hardside carry-on with spinner wheels and a built-in TSA lock has racked up rave reviews on Amazon, like this one: “It fit an odd amount of stuff in it. It's like a clown car. It has compartments and zippers that keep things separate and organized. It holds up well and is really good looking. It's absolutely worth every penny. I'm purchasing more for the rest of the family.” Traveler editor Meaghan Kenny agrees, calling it an overpacker's dream bag. The hardside spinner comes in black, navy, bright blue, and orange.

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

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

This Arlo Skye zipper-front suitcase has gone on many trips with Spurrell —she alternates between this and a Paravel carry-on, and this one has been to Peru, upstate New York, and Montauk: “I take it as a carry-on for most flights—from weekend trips to weeklong getaways—because it’s surprisingly roomy, with an organized front pocket that I can easily stow essentials like my laptop, book, and magazines in.” Sleek yet durable, it comes with a removable charger (boasting both USB C and USB A ports), two shoe bags, a laundry bag, and a cotton storage cover. The aesthetics are a plus, too: “I love the design of this bag—it feels like a reliable, sleek rolling bag, with design you’ll never get tired of.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The designers at Béis knew what they were doing when they built this soft-sided expandable carry-on , a favorite of senior commerce editor Madison Flager . It's a big space saver for people with minimal closet or storage space, and yet still fits plenty when expanded—enough for a long weekend to five-day trips. An exterior front pocket holds a laptop sleeve, pocket to place a portable charger (and a small hole to slip the charging cord through), plus a key clip. Smooth-rolling wheels and a soft hand cushion on the underside of the handle are great touches, too.

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

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

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

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

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

Senior features editor Rebecca Misner calls this suitcase “a professional travelers’ dream carry-on: very sturdy, and full of bells and whistles that actually make packing easier.” Briggs & Riley's signature expansion system allows travelers to press a button and pull up on a lever in the main compartment to expand the suitcase sides vertically. “Once you’re packed and zipped, you just push down on the exterior sides to compress.” Other notable features include mesh interior pockets, a built-in garment folder with a foam roll bar that keeps clothes from wrinkling, and unassuming SpeedThu pocket pockets on the exterior made to fit a passport and boarding pass—with a bright orange lining that signals when the pocket is open (meaning your important docs are at risk).

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

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

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

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

Tested by destinations editor Shannon McMahon , who prefers to travel with expandable hard-side spinners, this one stands out for “its super roomy packing capacity and its smooth-rolling wheels.” It's become her go-to carry-on after first using it for a four-day getaway last year with room to spare ( even after buying souvenirs ). Smart features of the utilitarian bag include a built-in phone charger, zippered laundry compartment, oversized mesh organizational pockets, and antimicrobial lining. The exterior scratched surprisingly easily on that first trip, but beyond that it hasn't seen much damage: “It's not a fight against scratches on the outside like I thought it would be, it seems like it was just a first-use thing.” The bag's biggest pros: Its packing power and its ultra-lightweight—“it's light as a feather when empty,” McMahon says.

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

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

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

Hard-shell bags with a front pocket are few and far between, but this Calpak bag makes a strong case for it. Executive editor Erin Florio says she “actually [looks] forward to packing this thing;” while she was worried about its size at first glance, after traveling with it, she says smart packers could pack for up to 10 days with it. “The inner compartments make it really easy to organize all your items, from shoes to laundry to toiletries, which helps you fit in more,” she says. As for that exterior pocket, it can fit a laptop, hardcover book, and magazines.

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

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

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

Traveling Petite Girl

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The Best Carry On Luggages for Women + Reviews By Travelers

• Travel Essentials

I recently started traveling with a carry on luggage and it literally lifts a weight off my shoulders (I used to travel with a backpack).

I’ve been influenced by the Japanese women I see here at the Naha Airport in Okinawa and noticed they all have one thing in common– they all travel a carry on luggage with a small purse to carry their essentials (passport, wallet, boarding pass, etc.)

So I gave it a try and I love the change! My tiny shoulders no longer have to travel with 15 pounds on my back anymore *happy cry*

So if you’re looking in to finding a carry on luggage (that fits most airline standards), here are the best carry on luggages for women!

*I hope you love the products I recommend! I research far and wide to share highly-rated products I know you’d love.  Just so you know, I may collect a share of sales from links on this page. Prices are as accurate as the date indicated on this post and r eviews have also been edited for length and/or clarity.

What to look for in a carry on bag

Carry on luggage size limit.

Every airlines has it’s carry on luggage size limit ( click here for the size limits for your airlines ), mostly ranging from a max height of 22 in (56cm). So it’s safe to say that any carry on luggage with a height of 22 in/56cm and below (including wheels and handle) will fit most airlines whether you fly domestic or international.

Carry On Luggage Weight Limit

Weight limits for carry on luggages also vary between airlines ( which you can also find here ). But most carry on weight limits range between a total weight of 15-22 lbs (7-10kg). So you want to make sure your luggage is as light as it can be without comprising protection & security.  It’s usually easy for me to go over my weight limit, so I always pack a luggage scale to save me from the element of surprise when I find out I have to pay extra overweight fees at the ticket counter.

Two wheels or four wheels?

Compared to two wheels, a four-wheeled luggage is much easier to move around because you can maneuver and spin it all directions.

Hard shell or Soft shell/fabric luggage?

This is really by personal preference. Here are the main differences:

Hard shell luggage

• Usually opens like a book (50/50 style) so packing depth is not that deep
• Windproof & waterproof
• Keeps its shape to protect belongings inside
• Usually doesn’t have an outside pocket (useful for some travelers)
• Less flexible and can take up more space

Soft shell/fabric luggage

• Flat top opening for deep packing depth
• Flexible & breathable
• Can stretch and squeeze into spaces if needed
• Water-resistant (or waterproof depending on fabric used)
• Less secure due to fabric

All luggages below are 22 inches (56cm) and have four wheels. Here are the best luggages you can get!

#1 delsey paris helium aero hardside luggage is a sleek & stylish luggage with a compartment for your laptop and tablet..

Helpful Review: “I’ve had this bag for just over 4 years now, and taken it on 34 trips (I looked at my calendar and counted). I’ve never once had a problem with it fitting as a carry-on, but I have checked it several times (due to packed flights offering free checked bags)…” -Dershwin

• Height: 19 inches
• Weight: 8.2 lbs
• Expandable: Yes
• TSA Lock: Yes

Get it on Amazon for $119.99 .

#2 Away the Carry-On ‘s minimal design comes with an ejectable battery to charge your devices on-the-go.

Helpful Review: “I was in Rome and Florence Italy for nine days and The Away Carry-On was just perfect. From being able to charge up my iPhone at the airport or on the train traveling from Rome to Florence it worked perfectly. Stylish and very versatile. It also kept my belongings packed beautifully plus the perk of a laundry bag for my dirty clothes. Getting through security was a breeze with it plus the added compliments of how beautiful it was.” – Keith H .

• Height: 21.7 inches
• Weight: 8.1 lbs
• Capacity: 39.8L
• Expandable: No

Get it on Away for $225 .

#3 If you’re looking for an elegant yet durable option, the Delsey Paris Chatelet Hard+ might be the perfect option for you.

Helpful Review: “I love this luggage!! …It is nice and big with plenty of storage space, and worked wonderfully for a recent 3+ week trip through Australia and New Zealand. The wheel locking feature came in handy more than a few times and the wheels themselves worked great on many different surfaces… I’ve received many compliments from strangers on the look of the luggage too, and it’s quality made as well. I was also initially cautious about purchasing the cream color, but it held up remarkably well and only had a couple scuff marks from checking it which were easily rubbed away with my hand (still looks like new after multiple trips).” -Brandon Boese

• Height: 20.2 inches
• Weight: 9.3 lbs

Get it on here on Amazon.

#4 If rose gold is your color, the Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Luggage is a dream to travel with.

Helpful Review: “My family recently went on a month [long] trip throughout Asia. In preparation for the trip I bought a carry on and a check suitcase for each of my family members(5 of us). I did a lot of research and found [that] Calpak was the best for this as it wasn’t ridiculously overpriced and still had great quality. We took them with us and they returned in nearly perfect condition! A few got some small scratches and scuffs but they still look brand new.” -Sabrina M.

• Height: 22 inches
• Weight: 6 lbs

Get it on Calpak  for $165 .

#5 The AmazonBasics Premium Expandable Softside Spinner Luggage is a no-fuss, affordable option.

Helpful Review: “The luggage withstood plenty of abuse without a single bruise. The nylon material and ribbing are strong and good looking. The spinner wheels easily maneuver. The handle telescopes nicely and is plenty strong. The TSA zipper lock is really cool. It’s easy to code and allows your belongings in the main compartment to be secured but accessible by TSA staff keys. Plenty of internal zippered compartments (four) including a large nylon detachable zippered bag for wet or dirty clothes. There’s also a full-size, zippered, internal, integrated compartment that can be used for the same purpose if necessary. The external zippered compartment is huge. The inside tie-down straps inside are nicely made and situated in the right places. There are two heavy duty nylon exterior handles: one on top and on one side. All in all, this luggage is well made and engineered. It has all the best features of our other luggage wrapped into one. Good looking and competitively priced.” -Neal Castle

• Height: 21 inches
• Weight: 6.3 lbs

Get it on Amazon for $59.99 .

#6 If you’re seeking a sleeker luggage that’s also affordable, the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds Luggage is for you.

Helpful Review: “This is a great carryon bag. It’s small enough to fit the carryon restrictions (I flew with American Airlines and Southwest and had no problems) yet still big enough to fit a week’s worth of clothes, a pair of flip flops, a pair of sneakers/joggers, a microfiber towel and my toiletries in it. I packed myou bag as full as I possibly could and the zipper held strong. The wheels were a dream, they made it so easy to push along the narrow isles on the plane. The shell of the suitcase is just as strong and durable. I would recommend this bag to anyone looking for a good quality yet still affordable bag.” -Amazon Customer

• Height: 2o inches
• Weight: 6.25 lbs
• TSA Lock: No

#7 If you tend to overpack, you won’t need to worry about the weight limit with the lightweight Travelpro Maxlite 5 Lightweight Rollaboard Luggage .

Helpful Review: “This luggage is a rock star. Used it very recently on a trip to Spain and it held up great. Had to roll it over cobblestone, construction sites, up and down metro stairs, and it kicked butt. This luggage is meant for travelers.” -Chef

• Weight: 5.3 lbs

Get it on Amazon for $113.68 .

#8 Lojel Cubo Small is perfect for travelers who travel with laptops, with a hard shell case that not only protects their laptop but also has a flat top opening.

This is the carry on bag I personally use!

Helpful Review: “I pack my office into my backpack whenever I travel and I got tired of carrying the weight so choosing a carry-on luggage with a laptop compartment was important for me. The Lojel Cubo turned out to be the perfect option for me because not only does it safely protect my laptop with the hardshell case, it also has a flat top opening making it easier me to pack. I’m actually surprised by how much volume I can fit into it. PLUS IT’S PINK. The 4 wheels, TSA-lock and expandable option are a bonus.” -Traveling Petite Girl

• Height: 20.9 inches
• Weight: 6.8 lbs, 3.1 kg

Get it on Lojel for $250 .

Want to know how to pack for a 1 month trip in a carry on? This packing guide comes with a free packing list for you to follow!

5 comments on the best carry on luggages for women + reviews by travelers.

Wow, lots of luggage. the last one is so cute. I will travel to Singapore next year on my birth month I hope my own luggage won’t fail me though haha.

Wow, lots of luggage. the last one is so cute and tiny. I will travel to Singapore next year on my birth month I hope my own luggage won’t fail me though haha.

Thanks Bianca! The last one is what I use personally and I love it! It looks smaller than the other luggages but that’s just the photo

Hello. magnificent job. I did not expect this. This is a excellent story. Thanks!

There are so many great choices for traveling! I love the carry-on.

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The best carry-on luggage of 2024.

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

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

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

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

Best Overall: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Original – Large

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

Best Hard-sided: Away The Carry-On

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

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

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

Best luxury: carl friedrik the carry-on pro.

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

Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

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

Price:  $315 or less

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

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

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

What our editors say:

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

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

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $369.99 or less

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

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

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

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

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $275 or less

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

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

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

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

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $199.99 or less

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

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

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

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

Price: $245 or less

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

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

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

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $179.99 or less

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

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

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

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Price: $80 or less

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $699 or less

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

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $165 or less

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

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

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

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

Price: $83 or less

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

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

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

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

Price: $565 or less

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $270 or less

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

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

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

Price: $200 or less

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

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

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

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

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

Also Recommended

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

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

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

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

Pros and Cons of Hard-sided Luggage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How We Tested

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

You might also be interested in:

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

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Elizaveta: Far East Village Girl

While in Khabarovsk, I poppoed into a new ‘hipster’ bar called Beer Beard and met some of the interesting patrons. Elizaveta, 18, was with her friend Zoya at the bar. She lives in a village of about 600 people some 30km from Khabarovsk. She studies at two universities in Khabarovsk and gets up between 5am and 6am to prepare for classes.

She said she has been working since 11 – after her father passed away – to help her mom, a village school teacher. Her mom saved up and sent Elizaveta to the Black Sea in the south of Russia last summer for her 18th birthday – the first time Elizaveta flew on a plane and saw the sea. “I cried from happiness – like a child,” she said of the experience. Elizaveta – like many other young people I met in the Far East – would like to move to St. Petersburg. “It is an amazing city…romantic..each street full of history.”

• Posted on: March 3, 2015
• Tags: girl , Khabarovsk , portrait , russia , Student

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Khabarovsk: The city on the 5,000 ruble banknote

A night view of Khabarovsk, the capital of Russia's Far East. Source: Lori/Legion-Media

Located at the confluence of the Amur and Ussuri rivers, Khabarovsk (6140 kilometers from Moscow) is the second largest city in the Russian Far East after Vladivostok. Having grown from a small military post in the middle of the 19 th  century, the city got its name from the famous Russian explorer Yerofei Khabarov, who surveyed the Amur River. Currently Khabarovsk is the administrative center of the Far Eastern Federal District.

Where to go on a first date with the city

Source: Lori/Legion-Media

The city was founded by Count Nikolai Muravyov-Amursky and the main street is named in his honor. Modern buildings and shopping centers coexist with old stone houses of gray and red. A monument to this famous Russian statesman can be found in the city’s Central Park. This statue can also be seen on the 5,000-ruble banknote.

The best way to explore Khabarovsk is on foot, beginning at Lenin Square and working your way towards the banks of the Amur River. The two main boulevards, Amursky and Ussuriisky, run parallel to each other. The architecture on Lenin and Serysheva streets, with its mostly Stalin-era structures, differs from the beautiful pre-revolutionary buildings on ul. Muravieva-Amurskogo. The Amursky and Ussuriisky boulevards did not exist until the mid-1960s.

Source: Shutterstock/Legion-Media

Khabarovsk is not a typical Russian city along the Trans-Siberian Railway. The unusual fusion of Russian and Chinese cultures is felt in the food, culture and even lifestyle of its residents. Japanese touches complement this picture in the form of blossoming cherry trees and cars with steering wheels on the right hand side. That Khabarovsk has such a strong Asian influence should not seem surprising, as the city is located only 17 kilometers from the state border with China. The nearest Chinese settlement, Fuyuan, is 65 kilometers down the river from Khabarovsk.

Khabarovsk’s gem is its picturesque river embankment and the Amursky rail and road bridge, which is also depicted on the 5,000-ruble banknote. Just like the Eiffel Tower, this bridge won the gold medal of the World Exhibition in Paris in the early 20 th  century.

Khabarovsk's museums

Khabarovsk became famous during the Soviet period for a popular song about border guards that stand on the "high banks of the Amur" and protect the motherland. It is not hard to find old cannons on display in the city that were fired during the Russo-Japanese War.

At the present time Khabarovsk is the headquarters of Russia’s Far Eastern Military District.

The Military Historical Museum of the Far Eastern Military District depicts in great detail everything you ever wanted to know about the formation and development of the army in the Far East. Models of weapons from different years are exhibited over the museum’s 13 halls and heavy military equipment is placed in the courtyard of an observation deck. The museum itself is located in a historic building right on the bank of the Amur River.

The Far Eastern Art Museum, also known as the "Far East Tretyakov Gallery" features original works of ancient Russian art, as well as local artists from the Amur Region. Among the artists on display are Ivan Aivazovsky, Ivan Shishkin, Ilya Repin, Vasily Surikov, Isaak Levitan, Alexander Benois, Apollinaris Vasnetsov and Mikhail Vrubel. Many of these works of art came to the Far East from museums in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

The Khabarovsk Regional Museum holds collections of flora and fauna, ethnography exhibits of indigenous peoples and Slavic settlers, and displays by paleontologists and geologists that tell the city’s story from its foundation. The only archaeological museum in the Far East is the Okladnikov Museum, which features 120,000 ancient artifacts pertaining to the Amur Region.

For those traveling with children, Khabarovsk has special kid-friendly attractions including an aquarium featuring fresh water fish of the Amur River basin, as well as the Gaidar Amusement Park and the Khabarovsk State Circus.

Source: TASS/Alexander Savchenko

A living museum of Far Eastern flora can be found at the Khabarovsk Arboretum, established as an experimental laboratory in 1896. It has collected about 300 plant species that grow in the Ussuri taiga as well as those from the Himalayas, Central Asia and North America.

Khabarovsk is known for its parks such as Dynamo or Yuri Gagarin Park. The Central Park of Culture and Relaxation is perfect for taking leisurely strolls and leads to the river station located within the park, where you can take a boat ride on the Amur River. Especially memorable is taking a walk along the river at night, when Khabarovsk is illuminated by hundreds of colored lights. In the park there is also an observation deck that offers a spectacular view of the Amur.

The cultural center of the Far East

Source: RIA Novosti/Ruslan Krivobok

The oldest Orthodox Church in Khabarovsk is a Church of St. Innocentius  of Irkutsk, erected in 1870 in honor of the patron saint of Siberia and the Far East. The impressive Holy Transfiguration Cathedral (its height with golden domes is 95 meters), built from the donations of inhabitants of the region, is the third largest temple in Russia after Moscow's Christ the Savior Cathedral and St. Isaac's Cathedral in St. Petersburg.

Several major theaters operate in Khabarovsk, which is often called the cultural center of the Far East. These include the Khabarovsk Regional Musical Theater performing classic operetta and musical comedy, and the Regional Drama Theatre featuring international and domestic classics. There is also the Triad professional mime theater, which offers unusual performances in interesting interiors. 

Why you should climb the Khabarovsk cliff

Khabarovsk is hot and humid in the summer with temperatures reaching 30 C and cold and dry in the winter with the average temperature being -24 C. However, the temperatures often drop below -30, making Khabarovsk the coldest city with a population of 500,000 or more in the world. There are massive ice sculptures on Lenin Square from January until the spring thaw in April as part of the annual Amur Crystal and Ice Fantasy festivals. City Day, celebrated on the last Saturday of May, is a good reason to visit Khabarovsk at the beginning of summer.

No matter the season, if it is clear, then climb the Khabarovsk cliff (ul. Shevchenko 15), a true symbol of the city. A famous building was constructed here on a rocky promontory 70 years ago by an architect named Starikov. At first it was a station for military observation, later becoming a rescue station. After the building was transferred to Khabarovsk Central Park of Culture and Recreation, a viewing platform was added that now offers the best panoramic views of the Amur River. Take a selfie here with a view of the Amur River at the monument to Count Muravyov-Amursky.

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Frequently asked questions

• First of all, pack in your passport, important documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you’ll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite shows are always good options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you’ll hop off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.
• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, can’t come on board with you either.
• The long, narrow aisles of an airplane are not the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and remember to bring a cardigan as the temperature can drop in the cabin. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are also a sensible choice.
• The serious condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Doing regular foot and leg exercises in your seat helps to prevent this from occurring. Wearing a good-quality pair of compression socks can also help.
• Be sure to keep your passport and travel documents close by. They’ll be the first things you’ll be asked to show at security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner’s alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They’ll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don’t worry though, you’ll be back online soon enough.
• Can’t travel without your favorite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as it’s in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a zip-close bag, you’re permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you’re less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won’t be allowed in the cabin.

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