The best carry-on luggage checks all the boxes, and—if you’re a light packer—eliminates the need to check a bag. Clever designs make efficient use of space and are easy to maneuver around the airport, then tuck seamlessly into the plane’s overhead compartment (or in some cases, underneath the seat in front of you). The beauty of traveling with a carry-on is the ability to keep your possessions with you at all times; if you’ve ever lost a checked suitcase, you know how stressful it can be. So, we rounded up our top carry-on luggage recommendations, including the TravelPro Platinum Elite Spinner, named our best overall pick, and the Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner, a worthy yet affordable option.
We’ve rounded up the best carry-on luggage, vetted by our own team of travel experts.
Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailers
The Forbes Vetted team consists of several avid travelers, many of whom chimed in with their go-to carry-on luggage picks; senior travel editor (and experienced globetrotter) Astrid Taran then reviewed each selection. We also consulted travel experts including CIRE Travel’s Amy Brueckner and Colleen Kelly, host of PBS’ Family Travel with Colleen Kelly, to pinpoint exactly what makes a piece of carry-on luggage exceptional. While we focus primarily on wheeled luggage, we’ve also included backpack and duffel options that are designed to meet your on-the-go needs. A final pro tip: A set of packing cubes will help you squeeze more into a smaller bag.
Best Carry-On Luggage Overall: TravelPro Platinum Elite Compact Spinner
Best Hardside Carry-On Luggage: Monos Carry-On Pro
Best Carry-On Luggage For International Travel: Away The Carry-On
Best Lightweight Carry-On Luggage: Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin
Best Affordable Carry-On Luggage: Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner
Most Durable Carry-On Luggage: Traveler’s Choice Archer Carry-On Spinner
Best Carry-On Luggage For Business Trips: Briggs & Riley Baseline
Best Carry-On Backpack: Peak Design 30L Travel Backpack
Best Carry-On Duffel Bag: Dagne Dover Layton Carryall
Editor’s Pick
Amazon
TravelPro Platinum Elite Compact Spinner
Dimensions: 22 × 14 × 9 inches | Weight: 7.9 pounds | TSA-approved lock: Yes | Colors: 5 total, including Metallic Sand and Shadow Black | Warranty: 5-year limited warranty
The TravelPro Platinum Elite Spinner tops our list due to its wealth of thoughtful features, including self-aligning magnetic spinner wheels, an ergonomic handle, external USB ports for convenient charging and a TSA-approved lock. If you need extra space, you’ll find a 2-inch expandable panel that can be opened or sealed with a zipper. Inside, there are mesh organizing pockets as well as a water-resistant pouch to keep damp toiletries separate from clothes.
The 100% polycarbonate shell has a textured finish that resists scuff marks while aluminum detailing at the corners further prevents dings and scratches. While this hardside suitcase is built to last, you’ll feel at ease knowing there’s a 5-year limited warranty that covers unexpected damage.
What our travel experts say: “I have the checked medium-size TravelPro Elite and can attest to the fact that the textured exterior shell is very durable and lightweight, and the four wheels are built for smooth gliding,” shares senior updates editor Karen Tietjen. “Some of the features differ slightly from the checked bag versus the carry-on; for instance, the carry-on has a built-in USB charging port, while the checked bag does not.”
Pros:
External USB ports Resists scuff marksSelf-aligning magnetic spinner wheels
Cons:
No front pocketLimited color selections
Dimensions: 22 × 14 × 9 inches | Weight: 7.8 pounds | Colors: 13 total, including Desert Taupe and Olive Green | TSA-approved lock: Yes | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
The versatility, durability and sharp aesthetics of Monos’ Carry-On Pro make it an all-around excellent hardside luggage option. It’s designed with 360-degree spinner wheels that are easy to maneuver and an internal pad to compress your clothing. The padded front compartment offers premium organization (which is usually lacking with hard-sided luggage) without sacrificing protection—a crucial detail for those flying with expensive tech.
This polycarbonate suitcase is designed to fit in the overhead bin of “almost any flight, anywhere in the world” according to Monos and is outfitted with an ultra-sturdy telescopic handle, TSA-approved lock and vegan leather details. Note that it also comes in the Carry-On Pro Plus size, which offers more packing space but may be too big for some international flights.
What our travel experts say: “Compared with similar hardsides I’ve used in the past, the Monos Pro’s front laptop pocket actually has enough room for both my laptop and other travel essentials,” says Forbes Vetted updates writer Francesca Sales. “I also love the interior compression—the board combined with the two adjustable straps makes it so that I’m really able to pack so much in it.”
Pros:
Padded front pocketBuilt-in compression padWide range of colors available
Cons:
Some reviewers say the front pocket takes up too much space
Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.7 x 9 inches | Weight: 7.1 pounds | Colors: 8 total, including Navy and Seafoam | TSA-approved lock: Yes | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
Away is one of the most buzz-worthy luggage brands: The lightweight polycarbonate-shell suitcases come in a spectrum of Instagram-worthy colors at a reasonable price. You can pick and choose upgrades like suitcase or luggage tag monogramming or an ejectable USB charger that keeps tech juiced up. (FYI, the USB add-on is not offered with select colors.) Other convenient features include swiveling wheels, an underside grab handle, a TSA-approved lock and a hidden laundry bag.
If you’re still on the fence, the brand allows returns within the first 100 days of purchase. Take note that monogrammed items cannot be returned; however, all items are covered under the company’s limited lifetime warranty.
What our travel experts say: Brueckner mentions that her husband has The Bigger Carry-On: Aluminum Edition and “is really happy with it.” She continues, “Sometimes when we travel, we’ll buy a bottle of wine or two and check our bag on the way home. Our precious vino is definitely protected in his hardshell suitcase!”
Pros:
Available in a wide range of colors Interior compression systemUnderside grab handle
Cons:
No front pocketMay not be suitable for longer trips
MOST POPULAR
Rimowa
Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin
Dimensions: 21.7 × 15.8 × 9.1 inches | Weight: 9.5 pounds | Colors: 4 total, including Silver and Black | TSA-approved lock: Yes | Warranty: Lifetime warranty
This polycarbonate shell suitcase is ultra-lightweight, coming in at just 4.9 pounds—that’s 30% less than the other suitcases in Rimowa’s Essential line. In addition to its slight yet sturdy build, you’ll enjoy effortless maneuverability with its innovative multi-wheel system and telescopic T-bar handle. Inside, there’s a mesh divider for organization and built-in TSA-approved locks for extra security no matter where your travels take you. These features combined earned this suitcase the top spot in our roundup of the best lightweight luggage.
While it may have a luxury price tag, the Essential Lite Cabin automatically comes with a lifetime warranty that covers all functional aspects of the suitcase, which is a nice perk when you’re in the market for an investment piece. It’s designed to fit in most airplane overhead compartments, but as always, be sure to double-check the flight guidelines before purchasing.
What our travel experts say: Executive director of business development and partnerships Alexis Caldwell doesn’t have Rimowa’s Essential Lite Cabin, but as an owner of the Cabin Plus, she vouches for the impeccable quality of the brand. “My Rimowa Cabin Plus literally floats through the airport—the wheels and maneuverability are unmatched,” says Caldwell. “I can squeeze so much into it with the compression system that I have never needed a larger suitcase, even on multiple three-week trips to various destinations.”
Pros:
Super lightweight at under 5 poundsMesh dividerUltra-smooth maneuverability thanks to Multiwheel System and telescopic handle
Cons:
Polycarbonate shell may not be as durable as the brand’s aluminum shell suitcases
Editor’s Pick
Amazon
Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner
Dimensions: 21.25 × 15.25 × 10 inches | Weight: 6.5 pounds | Colors: 9 total, including Black and Mint Green | TSA-approved lock: Yes | Warranty: Limited 10-year global warranty
The Samsonite Freeform Spinner is compact but expandable by 1 inch when you need a little extra packing room. It also has interior pockets and a divider to keep everything in its place. Four wheels make it easy to tote and a push-button handle pulls out and retracts as needed.
Other notable features include a recessed TSA-approved lock, a built-in ID tag and a modern color palette that includes Navy, Mint Green and White with gray accents. Since the shell is made out of polypropylene, it’s incredibly lightweight and comes at a wallet-friendly price; just keep in mind that it may not be as impact-resistant as a suitcase made with polycarbonate or aluminum. For casual travelers, though, it’s everything you need with an under-$200 price tag.
What our travel experts say: “I’ve had this carry-on for the past four years and it’s still in great shape,” says Forbes Vetted senior deals editor Kara Cuzzone. “I use it for both weekend trips (I’m an over-packer) and flights for longer vacations, and it has come in handy so many times. The expandable panel is so convenient for squeezing extra clothes in without having to opt for a larger suitcase, and the durable exterior ensures that my more delicate belongings stay protected.”
Pros:
LightweightAvailable in a wide range of colorsExpands up to 1 inch
Cons:
Polypropylene shell isn’t as impact-resistant as polycarbonateNo front pocket
Traveler’s Choice
Traveler’s Choice Archer Carry-On Spinner
Dimensions: 22 × 14 × 9 inches | Weight: 9.7 pounds | Colors: 3 total, including Black and Olive | TSA-approved lock: Yes | Warranty: Lifetime warranty
This suitcase is expandable and features two rolling wheels, an extendable handle and a built-in TSA-approved lock. Because of its clever trifold garment feature, it’s especially suited for anyone traveling for business or a formal occasion. While it’s certainly an investment, the brand’s Lifetime Guarantee covers repairs free of charge, meaning you can confidently take this bag wherever your job (or life) takes you.
What our travel experts say: “I love, love, love my Briggs & Riley Baseline carry-on in Black,” says Brueckner. “It has a lifetime guarantee, it expands and it has a hanging bag element for when I’m packing dresses. It has a little pouch in the back that holds my umbrella so I’m never without one on the road.”
Pros:
Trifold garment featureLifetime warranty that includes repairs free of chargeSpacious front pocket
Cons:
Not as impact-resistant as hardshell suitcasesSome may not like the 2-wheeled design
Editor’s Pick
Peak Design
Peak Design 30L Travel Backpack
Dimensions: 20.9 x 13.4 x 7 inches | Weight: 3.17 pounds | Colors: 3 total, including Black and Sage | TSA-approved lock: No | Warranty: Lifetime warranty
If you’re looking to travel light with only a carry-on backpack, this pick from Peak Design —which we named our favorite travel backpack for women—makes it possible. It’s roomy enough to fit a couple of packing cubes stuffed with clothes but small enough that you can carry it around town when you reach your destination. It’s also way more functional than a standard backpack: The back compartment zips open so you can lay it flat to pack it full, the laptop compartment is easily accessible as you navigate security and the main compartment expands with a zipper if you need to carry more gear. It’s also versatile—the shoulder straps stash behind the padded back panel, which has a discreet handle so you carry it like a duffel.
The one drawback is that, when stuffed to the brim, it’s hard to fit a large water bottle in the expandable side pockets. The Peak Design also comes with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects and breakage, but it does not cover cosmetic damage or breakage due to wear and tear.
What our travel experts say: “The mesh zipper pockets that line the interior walls of the pack are strategically placed to maximize space and the soft pocket holds more fragile items like sunglasses or a phone,” says Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta, who owns this backpack.
Pros:
Designated laptop compartmentCan be converted into a duffelLifetime warranty
Cons:
May not be suitable for longer tripsHard to fit water bottle when backpack is full
Editor’s Pick
Dagne Dover
Dagne Dover Medium Landon Carryall
Dimensions: 14.5 x 7.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 3.2 pounds | Colors: 6 total, including Dark Moss and Camel | TSA-approved lock: No | Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
Duffel bags aren’t as convenient as traditional carry-ons, especially if you have to cover distances between airport gates or hotels on foot. However, they’re lightweight and flexible, meaning you can make space for those hard-to-pack items without worrying about the constraints of a rectangular case.
Dagne Dover’s Landon Carryall is ideal for weekend getaways and is designed with a laptop sleeve, interior pockets, a shoe bag and a mesh pouch for smaller essentials. A built-in trolley sleeve allows you to slip the bag right onto your rolling suitcase’s handle. The duffel bag is constructed out of premium neoprene (which is traditionally associated with wetsuits), so it’s resistant to leaks and spills. For this reason (and others), the Landon Carryall makes a particularly great travel companion for those with kids.
What our travel experts say: Forbes Vetted senior beauty editor Kari Molvar personally tested this duffel for herself. “After taking this bag on three recent trips to New York, I schlepped all over and can attest that the Landon Carryall held up extremely well,” she says in her review. “It’s not just that it holds a lot and is durable, but it’s versatile enough to serve other purposes.”
Pros:
Built-in trolley sleeveNeoprene exterior is spill-resistantDesignated laptop compartment
Cons:
May not be suitable for longer tripsCan become heavy when full
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
We tapped multiple experienced Forbes Vetted travelers, including editors and staffers, to share their recommendations for carry-on luggage.
We consulted two additional travel experts: Amy Brueckner, chief operating officer of travel planning company CIRE Travel and Colleen Kelly, host of PBS’ Family Travel with Colleen Kelly.
This story is overseen by senior travel editor Astrid Taran, who has visited over 30 countries throughout the course of her career.
To keep you up-to-date on the best selections (and prices) available, we refresh this roundup regularly. In its latest January 2024 update, Vetted updates writer Claire Epting added the Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin as the best lightweight carry-on suitcase.
How We Chose The Best Carry-On Luggage
Forbes Vetted travel experts personally recommend several of the picks on this list, including the TravelPro Platinum Elite Spinner and the Monos Carry-On Pro.
Brueckner and Kelly also contributed their own carry-on luggage recommendations; Bruekner uses the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 2-Wheel Carry-On, and mentioned that her husband backs the Away Carry-On. Meanwhile, Kelly is a big fan of the Traveler’s Choice Archer Carry-On Spinner.
We prioritized brands with excellent warranties, so you can feel confident in your luggage purchase in the long run.
We sought out carry-on luggage that have garnered a substantial amount of positive reviews; each of our picks has an average rating of at least four out of five stars. (Note that the Rimowa website doesn’t have customer reviews enabled, but we chose to include its Essential Lite Cabin design because of the brand’s stellar reputation.)
What To Consider When Buying Carry-On Luggage
The best carry-on luggage for you depends on your trip and travel style. Here are some things to consider, along with expert insights from Brueckner.
Size
The most important quality of carry-on luggage is its dimensions—you want to ensure it meets airline requirements so you won’t get slapped with extra fees to check your bag at the gate. Some luggage is designed to be expandable, so you can increase the amount of storage space when needed. Brueckner prefers expandable bags that qualify as carry-ons, as long as they’re compact. Often, she’ll lightly pack a carry-on for an outbound flight, and if she acquires souvenirs during her trip, she’ll expand it, stuff it full and check it on the way home.
Durability And Warranty
Quality luggage can be pricey, but a carry-on you can depend on is worth the investment. If you’re an avid traveler and plan on investing in expensive luggage, make sure it comes with a good warranty. “I travel a lot so I want my luggage to be durable,” says Brueckner. “My current bag (the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 2-Wheel Carry-On) wasn’t cheap but it has a lifetime guarantee.” Further, if you plan on purchasing from a third-party retailer like Amazon, double-check with the brand directly to make sure the warranty still applies.
Extra Features
You also want to consider maneuverability and features like interior pockets and dedicated laptop sleeves. For extra security, look for a carry-on with a built-in TSA-approved combination lock, which TSA agents can open with a master key so they don’t have to damage your luggage if it must be inspected. If the possibility of your tech running out of battery is cause for concern, consider suitcases that have built-in USB chargers, like our top pick, the TravelPro Platinum Elite Spinner.
Color
While a bright color will make your bag pop, keep in mind that lighter shades are more likely to show scuffs and spots. Says Brueckner, “I’m a big fan of black because it doesn’t show dirt or dings. But everyone has a black bag, so make sure to add some flair with a brightly colored ribbon or luggage tag so you know it’s yours.” If black feels too generic, opt for another dark shade—the Traveler’s Choice Archer Carry-On Spinner, for instance, comes in deep purple and green hues.
What Size Is A TSA-Approved Carry-On?
The specific size allowance for carry-on luggage varies from one airline to the next, but the general rule is that a carry-on bag should be no bigger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches. We recommend always checking your preferred airline’s size restrictions online before heading to the airport, as these rules are subject to change. Brueckner adds to be especially diligent if you’re flying internationally. “Some airlines have different size rules for domestic versus international,” she says.
What Is The Best Brand Of Luggage For Carry-On?
After extensively researching the best luggage brands on the market, we elected TravelPro as our top pick for carry-on luggage. Its Platinum Elite Spinner has so much to offer in terms of overall design, durability and added features. If you’re looking for an investment piece that will stand the test of time, we recommend Rimowa and Monos—both of these brands’ suitcases come with a lifetime guarantee, so you can have peace of mind while you travel.
Is Hard Or Soft Luggage Better For A Carry-On?
Some might assume that this is a question of personal preference, but in most instances, a hardside suitcase is the best option. Hardside luggage is stronger so it can protect any delicate items you may need to pack (like camera equipment or toiletry bottles). Hardside carry-on bags also hold their shape in overhead bins next to your fellow passengers’ bags and can stay strong against the unceremonious shoving they might endure up there. Plus, if you get caught in the rain with your bag, a hard-sided suitcase won’t turn into a soaked-through mess.
Soft-sided luggage has a few benefits, though: Namely, it can compress and fit into smaller spaces than hardside luggage—that is, if it’s not overstuffed. And while it might not be as durable overall as a hardside, softside carry-ons don’t scuff or scratch so they may look newer for longer. However, because they are made of nylon or other fabrics, they are prone to ripping so we recommend shopping from a brand with an extensive warranty, such as Peak Design.
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