The Best Carry-On Luggage in 2025 (Hands-On Reviews)

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

This past year, for instance, we’ve been busy testing our way through a mountain of old and new suitcases, backpacks, and duffels, trying to find the best carry-on luggage to buy in 2025. After evaluating over 43 pieces based on a combination of style, performance, and functionality, we’ve narrowed it down to a select few that stand out from the crowd.

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

Once you have a clear idea of your needs, find your match in our curated list of cabin bags. From stylish and lightweight polycarbonate to rough and luxurious aluminum and clever soft-sided options, these are the best carry-on luggage pieces available today, tested and reviewed by the Travel Away team.

Best Overall: Bellroy Lite Carry-On

Best Hardside: Monos Carry-On Pro

Best Softside: Nomatic Navigator Carry-On 37L

Best Aluminum: MVST Treva

Best Large: Béis The Carry-On Roller

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

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

Best International: Horizn Studios M5

Best Organization: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Large

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

Best Carry-On Luggage in 2025: Bellroy Lite Carry-On

Best Carry-On Luggage in 2025
  • Best feature: Ultra-lightweight design and eco-friendly materials
  • Dimensions: 20″ × 13.5″ × 9″ (51cm x 34.5cm x 23cm)
  • Material: Recycled nylon and polyester
  • Weight: 4.63 lbs (2.1 kg)
  • Volume: 38 L

As someone who’s always on the lookout for luggage that makes travel easier, I can honestly say that the Lite Carry-On has made a noticeable difference in how I travel. Weighing in at just 4.63 lbs, this bag is feather-light, and yet it feels sturdy enough to withstand the demands of a frequent flyer.

Bellroy has really nailed the eco-friendly aspect here, using recycled nylon and polyester without sacrificing durability. It’s a perfect blend of sustainability and practicality, and it feels just as high-quality as other, heavier luggage options I’ve tested. Not to mention, it looks cool and contemporary.

The standout feature for me, though, has to be the two-wheel system. While I’m usually skeptical about two-wheel luggage, this one has surprised me. The oversized rollerblade-inspired wheels glide effortlessly across various surfaces, from tiled airport floors to rough cobblestones. I’ve never had an issue with maneuverability.

Inside, the Lite Carry-On offers thoughtful organization, with enough room to pack for a 3-5 day trip. While some compartments share space, forcing you to be strategic with packing, this actually helps prevent overpacking. The bag keeps everything organized without feeling too compartmentalized.

In conclusion, Bellroy has designed a bag that has significantly simplified my travels, and you can read all about in my in-depth Lite Carry-On review.

what we like

  • Unbeatable weight for frequent flyers
  • Eco-conscious materials
  • Smooth two-wheel gliding system
  • Simple, stylish design
  • Practical interior organization

what we don’t

  • No dedicated laptop sleeve (though it can be stored in the flat-item section)
  • Lacks an internal compression system, making it harder to maximize space and keep everything neatly packed

Best Hardside Carry-On Luggage: Monos Carry-On Pro

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

what we like

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

what we don’t

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

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

Best Softside Carry-On Luggage
  • Best feature: Its stellar organizational capabilities
  • Dimensions: 22″ × 14″ × 9″ (55.8cm x 35.5cm x 22.8cm)
  • Material: 100% Makrolon polycarbonate shell + durable, water-resistant fabric
  • Weight: 7.8 lbs (3,5 kg)
  • Volume: 37 L Standard | 45 L Expanded

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

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

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

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

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

what we like

  • Streamlined, professional appearance
  • Built to last
  • RFID-safe pocket
  • The expansion feature increases the capacity to 45 liters by unzipping it
  • Protective ABS honeycomb interior panel
  • Reflective bars for nighttime visibility

what we don’t

  • While beautiful, the black exterior fabric shows dust and dirt easily (a lint roller will do the trick, though)
  • Although I haven’t found this to be a problem, it’s a two-wheel suitcase, which means you’ll have to drag it behind you rather than roll it next to you
  • It’s only available in black

Best Aluminum Carry-On Luggage: MVST Treva Aluminum Suitcase

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For a closer look, read our detailed MVST Treva review.

what we like

  • Sleek, cool look
  • Extremely durable
  • The zipperless locking-latch design provides safety and easy access
  • Unbeatable price for an aluminum carry-on
  • Comes in more colors than any other metal suitcase out there

what we don’t

  • Heavier than your polycarbonate suitcase
  • It will inevitably earn scratches, dings, and dents over the years

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

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

I purchased the Béis Carry-On Roller in Beige a couple of years ago, and since then, I’ve had the chance to test its functionality, weight, storage, and comfort on several trips around Europe.

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

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

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

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

what we like

  • Chic, durable exterior
  • Generous capacity
  • Lots of unique features
  • Practical, well-organized interior
  • Expands up to 2” for extra packing space

what we don’t

  • Exceeds most European carry-on size limits
  • The handle felt a little loose during our tests
  • Interior zippers are not the greatest

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

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

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

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

Widely regarded as one of the best hardside carry-on luggage options with a front pocket – offering far more space than it seems – this suitcase combines sleek design with effortless functionality, featuring a reliable aluminum locking mechanism and smooth, silent Japanese wheels. The interior is simple, well-designed, and satisfyingly spacious, making it easier to travel carry-on only.

I love a product that I can trust, and that’s exactly what the Carl Friedrik Carry-on X is: an elegant, premium piece of luggage that can easily withstand the demands of frequent travel. Its sleek, understated styling, coupled with all those robust features, make it one of the best carry-on luggage to buy in 2025.

what we like

  • Superb built quality
  • Contemporary, heritage-inspired style
  • The aluminum frame and locking mechanism are far superior to a zipper
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Free 100-day trial

what we don’t

  • The telescopic handle feels a bit sub-par
  • Heavier than others on the list
  • The size might not be for everyone

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

what we like

  • Expands from daypack to carry-on bag
  • Meets international carry-on size requirements
  • Rugged construction
  • Tons of organizational features keep your belongings organized and easily accessible
  • Separate laptop/tablet compartment
  • Multiple carry options
  • Some of the best-designed shoulder straps of all the backpacks we’ve tried

what we don’t

  • It only fits Peak Design camera cube when fully expanded
  • Lacks the side and front access found on the 45L
  • Black & Midnight fabrics show dust and dirt easier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

what we like

  • Glorious built quality
  • Cool, contemporary design
  • Smart design features
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Responsibly made

what we don’t

  • Expensive
  • The front laptop pocket is not as protective as a hard-side one

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

what we like

  • Rugged and durable construction
  • Sustainably made
  • Versatile
  • Clever features

what we don’t

  • It may be too large for international overhead bins
  • On the heavier side
  • Doesn’t include a battery for the charging port

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

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

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

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

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

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

what we like

  • Lightweight yet sturdy shell
  • Compact enough to fit in most airline overhead bins
  • High-quality, water-resistant zippers
  • The contrasting Italian leather trim really sets it apart

what we don’t

  • It comes at a price
  • No side handle
  • A leather-wrapped telescoping handle would have been nice

How We Test

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

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

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

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

5 Key Things to Consider When Buying Carry-On Luggage

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

— Carry-On Size Limits

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

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

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

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

— Carry-On Weight Limits

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

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

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

— Hard Luggage vs. Soft Luggage

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

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

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

— Two-Wheel vs. Spinner Carry-On Luggage

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

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

— Duffel vs. Backpack vs. Rolling Suitcase

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Thanks.

    1. Hi Aimée,

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

  3. Frederick Frederick says:

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

    1. Hi Frederick,

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

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

      Source: https://www.delta.com/content/www/en_US/traveling-with-us/baggage/during-your-trip/carry-on.html

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

  4. Brent Tito Brent Tito says:

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

  5. Ruth Asbery Ruth Asbery says:

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

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

  6. Suzie Johnson Suzie Johnson says:

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

  7. Sophia Bennett Sophia Bennett says:

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

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