best luggage for airport travel

American Tourister

Briggs & riley, bric's, luggage faqs, the 11 best luggage brands of 2024, tested by experts.

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The best suitcases let you roll through the airport quickly and confidently, with assurance that your items are well-protected and sturdily organized within.

We selected our picks for the best luggage brands based on years of hands-on testing by several travel editors who regularly take up to 50 flights a year. Since the size of luggage you'll need will depend on your specific travel plans, we focused on the best brands rather than specific pieces. Our top picks are known for making sturdy and reliable luggage, with smart extras to make packing and traveling a breeze. 

Read on for our top choices for the best luggage brands at various price points to consider. If you're specifically looking for hand-luggage, check out our guide to the best carry-on bags . 

Our top picks for the best luggage brands

Shop all luggage at Samsonite

When it comes to value, Samsonite makes excellent luggage at some of the best prices, which is why we named it our top overall pick for the best carry-on . Samsonite offers numerous options for roller bags, including both hard-side and soft-side carry-ons and checked luggage, as well as wheeled underseat bags and even roller duffels. 

Samsonite also sells several two- and three-piece sets if you want to pair small, medium, and large roller bags together. In addition to traditional roller luggage, Samsonite also offers classic backpacks, wheeled backpacks, duffels, briefcases, wallets, dop kits, and more. There are even some cool wheeled garment bags that can fit under your seat and will fit far more than your typical folding or hanging garment bag. I've owned a Samsonite bag for over three years now and it's held up incredibly well.

You can read our full Samsonite Centric Carry-On review for more info.

Worth a look:

Shop all luggage at Away

Away has multiple options for roller luggage, including hard-sided, expandable, and aluminum. Bags are available in both neutral hues and bright, eye-catching colors.

Away's stand-out feature used to be the removable battery pack for charging your electronics on the go, which was previously available as an add-on to its carry-on bags. While the brand retired that feature, we still think its bags have thoughtful extras like in-bag compression, built-in TSA-approved locks, and a removable washable lining. 

In addition to roller bags, the brand also a range of other bags and travel accessories, including backpacks, duffels, pet carriers, totes, packing cubes, and more. I've personally owned Away luggage for years and can attest to its durability and practicality. 

Read our full Away luggage review and Away Carry-On review for more.

Shop all luggage at Travelpro

Travelpro mostly makes soft-side luggage and rightfully earned its spot as our top pick for the best soft-sided carry-on . I personally love the clear attention to detail that comes with a Travelpro bag, from the whisper-quiet spinner wheels to the tear-resistant material and sturdy buckles.

In addition to rolling luggage, Travelpro has options for underseat bags (rolling and not), toiletry bags, backpacks, foldable duffels, garment bags (which often come included with a carry-on), luggage tags, laptop bags, and more.

Read our full Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On review for more.

Shop all luggage at Monos

Monos is a newer start-up that doesn't have as many suitcase options as the other luggage brands on our list, but it's worth mentioning since it's one of the best suitcases on the market with a hard front pocket that gives you an easy place to safely store laptops and extras. Monos suitcases are durable, come in an array of colors, and are well-priced. Plus, all of the luggage comes with a 100-day trial period and a limited lifetime warranty. The same brand also makes some of our favorite durable packing cubes .

Currently, Monos has two sizes of carry-on that either come with a front pocket or not depending on your preferences, plus a medium-sized roller bag and a checked luggage option. Monos also make a backpack, duffel, and folio kit.

You can read our full Monos luggage review for more.

Shop all luggage at American Tourister

Many of American Tourister's carry-ons start under $100, and while they may not last you a lifetime, they certainly won't break down anytime soon either. The hard-sided bags are made from a sturdy ABS material, and the spinner wheels aren't quite as high-end as premium options but still easily roll on most surfaces. While these suitcases don't come with tons of extras (be aware that some don't come with built-in TSA locks), the interiors are still thoughtfully designed for easy packing. 

American Tourister has numerous roller bag options in varying sizes, including both hard-sided and soft-sided suitcases. There is also a line of Disney luggage that kids especially might love. While there are also some nice wheeled underseat bags, American Tourister hasn't branched out much from classic roller bags, so you'll want to look elsewhere if a duffel or weekender bag is more your aim.

Shop all luggage at Rimowa

When it comes to high-end luggage, Rimowa is a consistent standout that uses premium materials to create long-lasting and recognizable pieces. Its ribbed aluminum luggage, which comes in every color from simple silver to a cherry red, is particularly popular — though it will cost you upwards of $1,000. However, thanks to heavy-duty construction that still manages to be lightweight, the rollers might be worth it if budget isn't an issue for you.

For a slightly more cost-effective (though still pricey) option, I particularly love the Essential Lite collection, which I named the best high-end hard-side carry-on thanks to the fact that it's incredibly durable but weighs less than five pounds. Unfortunately, if you're a fan of soft-sided suitcases, Rimowa is not the brand for you, and there aren't as many accessories available as some other brands. 

Read our full Rimowa Essential Lite carry-on review .

Shop all luggage at Briggs & Riley

We named Briggs & Riley our top pick for the best high-end soft-side carry-on. I particularly like the super-smart interior features that truly elevate these suitcases, from a special CX compression-expansion system that increases packing capacity by 25%, to making sure the adjustable handle is entirely on the outside of the bag so no packing room is lost to the poles. These suitcases are certainly investment pieces, but they're built to last and also come with a lifetime warranty.

While I find the soft-sided bags to be some of Briggs & Riley's best options, there are also some nice hard-sided carry-ons and checked bags for those who prefer to go that route. In addition to roller bags, Briggs & Riley also makes backpacks, duffels, weekends, laptop bags, and travel accessories of all types, including packing cubes, bag ID tags, laundry bags, and more.

Shop all luggage at Bric's

Bric's is probably best known for its high-end Bellagio collection of luggage, both recognizable and revered for its durable, but ultra-light polycarbonate exterior with leather trim that gives it a nostalgic trunk feel. It's the little details that set this Italian brand apart, including Hinomoto wheels, matching interior linings, and premium zippers. That's why you've likely seen a luxury travel guru wheeling this bag through the airport, or, if you're an eagle-eyed "Schitt's Creek" fan, may have caught Alexis Rose using this collection to pack up her belongings. 

However, for those not ready to spend $600 on a carry-on, Bric's also has several more affordable suitcases in both hard-sided and soft-sided options. The Capri collection features striking exterior detailing in a wide range of colors at a mid-tier price point, while B/Y Zeus will appear to soft-sided fans.

The brand also has a sale section where you can sometimes score premium collections that typically start at $650 or more for under $200. 

Read our full Bric's Capri luggage review .     

Shop all luggage at Tumi

Like Rimowa, Tumi luggage pieces are an investment. But they're a worthy one since these suitcases will likely last you years, if not decades. With numerous options of all sizes for both hard-sided and soft-sided suitcases, Tumi has bags to suit just about all tastes. 

Its well-thought-out suitcases include premium spinner wheels, heavy-duty zippers, scratch- and tear-resistant exteriors, and well-designed interiors that help travelers maximize every last inch of space. In addition to roller luggage, Tumi is also well known for its premium totes and briefcases, and also makes travel wallets, backpacks, duffels, care kits, travel umbrellas, and more. 

Shop all luggage at Victorinox

Victorinox luggage falls in the mid- to high-tier of pricing but its durability makes it a good value choice. The brand also frequently has luggage on sale during big shopping holidays when you can score suitcases for less. As you might expect from a Swiss Army company, the interiors of most suitcases are also thoughtfully designed to maximize packing space. 

Victorinox offers both hard-sided and soft-sided roller bags of numerous sizes including classic carry-ons, checked bags, medium-sized suitcases, and smaller wheeled underseat bags that can fit laptops and accessories. Beyond roller bags, Victorinox also offers briefcases, duffels, backpacks, totes, toiletry kits, garment bags, and more.

Shop all luggage at Delsey

If you like the look of Bric's cream suitcases with leather trim, you may also want to consider Delsey's Chatelet line of hard-sided luggage. While these suitcases start around the same price as Bric's, they can be found on sale more frequently, often for half the price. Delsey's Titanium suitcases are also a fan-favorite option since they are ultra-lightweight but incredibly durable. 

Delsey has numerous options for roller bags for domestic and international travel in both hard-sided and soft-sided variations (though more hard-sided), as well as several luggage sets. It even has an eco-friendly line of laptop bags and duffels using recycled materials.  

Is hard-sided or soft-sided luggage better?

There are pros and cons to each. In general, hard-sided luggage offers more protection for your belongings than soft-sided luggage.

For checked bags, you're best bet is hard-sided luggage, since it can withstand tough handling and having other items stacked on top. Soft-sided luggage may be a good option if you want more flexibility, since fabric-made suitcases have a lot more give. Soft-sided pieces are a good option for carry-ons because they can flex and compress to fit into tight overhead bins.  

What size luggage should I buy?

We think it's best to start with a carry-on size, since it offers the most flexibility, whether you want to keep it in the cabin or check it. Most US airlines cap carry-on size at 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches high, including handles and wheels.

When it comes to buying a checked bag, you'll want something between 25 and 29 inches long. Airlines typically charge a fixed fee for checked bags up to a certain weight, so it may be tempting to think a bigger suitcase is always better. However, bigger pieces of luggage come with more weight of their own, don't protect your items well when they're underpacked, and encourage overpacking, which can lead to higher baggage fees (or the dreaded airport floor repacking). 

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The 13 Best Luggage Pieces for International Travel of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

From flexible softside suitcases to ultra-durable hardside options, these are the best luggage pieces for jetting off abroad.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

With the enormous variety of luggage options available today, it can feel overwhelming to pick the right bag for an international trip. To help you find the perfect piece for your needs, the Travel + Leisure team tested more than 250 carry-ons and checked suitcases, plus an additional 210 duffels, backpacks, and other travel bags.

We built an airplane set in our New York City lab to lift bags into overhead bins and see how well they fit beneath real airplane seats, hit bags with baseball bats to test their durability, and maneuvered them through obstacle courses to see how easy they are to roll. For this list, we prioritized bags that work with general international size and weight limits, as many international carriers have stricter requirements for both.

Whether you’re heading on a two-week European vacation or a shorter trip on an airline with restrictive policies, there’s an option on our list for every type of traveler, from a collapsible checked suitcase to a compact garment bag.

Best Overall

July large luggage.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Organization 4.5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

This bag has the largest capacity on this list and a great compression system so you can fit everything you need for your international getaway.

The suitcase weighs 10.5 pounds on its own, so be mindful of packing heavy items so you don’t go over your airline’s weight limit.

If you’re going away for a long international trip and want to bring along all the comforts of home, this spacious suitcase is large enough to hold two weeks worth of your favorite outfits and plenty of shoe options, too. The largest bag in July’s entire range of luggage , this suitcase has a built-in compression feature that is durable enough to keep clothes from falling out regardless of which side you open it from. It also has many zippered pockets that are great for keeping smaller items organized, a laundry bag, and a water-resistant and stain-proof nylon lining. Just keep in mind that the bag may go over your airlines’ weight limit if you pack it full since it’s pretty large.

We were especially impressed with how smooth the wheels glided over various surfaces during our tests, seamlessly transitioning from concrete pavers to carpet and maneuvering easily through our human obstacle course. Despite its large size, the bag was easy to roll around people, and the handle was easy to pull without leaving a strain on our arms or backs, even when packed full. We also loved how the handle has the ability to adjust to any height rather than set modes, so it’s customizable for different family members to share. The outer shell felt pretty sturdy, although there were some light scuffs and grazes after we threw it off a counter multiple times fully packed. However, the contents inside didn’t budge, and the bag did not dent even after we hit it repeatedly with a metal baseball bat.

The Details: 30.25 x 19.75 x 12.5 inches | 10.5 pounds | 110-liter capacity | Limited lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Large Carry-on

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

The wheels glide effortlessly over all sorts of terrain, and the suitcase itself is featherweight yet boasts a generous capacity.

There aren’t any smart features, which business travelers may need.

Frequent flyers will love this ultra lightweight, 21-inch hardside carry-on from Samsonite. Even when fully packed, it’s a breeze to hoist over your head on flights. Built with four 360-degree spinner wheels, it stands out for how effortlessly it glides over everything from carpet to curbs, easily navigating road bumps and smoothly transitioning from two to four wheels.

While there aren’t any smart features, like a built-in power bank, there are plenty of handy extras like a recessed TSA-approved lock, compression straps, a small zippered pouch to store your delicates, and a one-inch expander. While there’s already ample space to fit a week’s worth of clothing in the zippered compartment, the expander is primarily excellent for freeing up some extra space for souvenirs. You can scoop this bag up in 14 vibrant jewel tones, and can even opt to make it a set with the addition of a 28-inch checked bag .

The Details: 21.25 x 15.25 x 10 inches | 6.5 pounds | 34-liter capacity | Expandable | 10-year warranty

Best Small Carry-on

Delsey chatelet air 2.0 carry-on spinner.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Organization 4 /5
• Design 3.5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

It’s hyper lightweight and boasts ample organizational features — plus, it’s made from recycled water bottles.

It’s a bit pricey given its compact size.

Light packers, look no further than this compact suitcase from Delsey. The iconic French brand is known for its lightweight and ultra-durable suitcases , and this carry-on is another excellent example. It’s ideal for weekend getaways or business trips, as it includes a USB port and is packed with organizational features to help keep your belongings in their proper place.

On one side, there’s a zippered compartment which we found to be perfect for storing mid-weight jackets and a few pairs of shoes. The other half of the suitcase features compression straps, which worked well to help maximize packing space. We loved how easy it was to stay organized using this suitcase: there’s a mesh zippered pocket for separating delicates; a laundry and a shoe bag; and a discrete pocket hidden in the lining, which makes for a great place to store currency if you’re not using a hotel safe. We also love the antimicrobial lining, which helps to reduce bacteria and any lingering odors. While the price tag may seem steep given that this is a smaller bag, it’s a tribute to Delsey’s legacy of standing by its luxury pieces — the brand offers a 10-year limited warranty.

The Details: 21.75 x 13.75 x 10 inches | 6.39 pounds | 38-liter capacity | Expandable | 10-year warranty

Best Medium Checked

Travelpro maxlite air medium check-in hardside spinner.

• Design 4 /5

Both sides of the clamshell zip shut, keeping all of your items secure.

We wish the handle could be adjusted a bit shorter.

A medium checked bag can be the perfect go-to piece of luggage for just about any trip and our favorite is the Travelpro Maxlite Air Medium Check-in Hardside Spinner. This bag easily fit everything on our packing lists with very little thought given to organization thanks to the built-in compression panels. It also expands two inches so you could give yourself even more room if needed for longer trips.

While this is a high-capacity bag, it's still lightweight and easy to maneuver (although we wish the handle could adjust to more than just two heights). We love how easily the wheels glide over any surface. We were even able to smoothly twirl the bag as well as both push and pull it over carpeting, concrete, and more. After our durability testing, it shows one minor scuff but otherwise looks great, and all of the items inside were well-protected.

The Details: 27.5 x 17.5 x 11 inches | 8.5 pounds | 89-liter capacity | Limited lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best Softside

Samsonite elevation plus large softside spinner.

• Organization 5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 4 /5

It has plenty of storage options and organizational features.

The handle can be a bit difficult to adjust.

We love this spacious suitcase, designed with multiple interior and exterior pockets to keep all of your items organized. Because it's a softside bag, it has a bit of give that naturally expands as you need to make sure it easily zips closed. While this suitcase is rather heavy at 10 pounds, it wasn't overly cumbersome. It was easy to pull and push the bag over different surfaces as the weight evenly distributed itself. We also love the thick exterior fabric of the bag that proved to be tear and scuff-resistant throughout our durability tests. The handle was the only feature that seemed less sturdy as it got caught on occasion, but worked well when needed. Whether you're planning a long trip or short trip, this is a high-quality, functional bag that is sure to withstand anything you throw at it.

The Details: 29.8 x 20 x 11.5 inches | 10 pounds | Limited 10-year warranty

Away The Trunk

The 30/70 design makes it easy to pack large items since one side is much deeper than most checked bags.

Although the trunk feels lightweight for its size, it can feel lopsided if you don't pack it evenly on each side.

You never know what kind of treasures you’ll pick up when you’re abroad, and we love this trunk for its split 30/70 design that can accommodate bulkier or larger items since one side is much deeper than a typical checked bag. We packed most of our items on one side of the trunk during testing and noticed it felt a bit lopsided, so you do need to be mindful of spreading your items out between both sides so that the weight is more evenly distributed.

This is a large bag, but we found it surprisingly easy to maneuver around tight corners, crowds, and over rough surfaces. We even thought it maneuvers more smoothly than trunks from other brands that we’ve tested in the past. It’s shockingly lightweight for the large size and so easy to glide on either two or four wheels. There are also handles on the top, side, and bottom, which makes it easy to lift the bag from any angle. To top it all off, this was one of the most durable pieces of Away luggage that we tested — the hard shell has a lot of give, and when we hit it with a baseball bat, the bat actually bounced right back up without denting or scuffing the bag.

The Details: 31.3 x 17 x 13.7 inches | 12.1 pounds | 107-liter capacity | Limited lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Most Durable

Samsonite winfield 2 carry-on, 20-inch.

The bag showed no signs of damage after we hit it with a bat multiple times and pushed it off a high counter.

This bag is heavy for a carry-on.

When it comes to carry-ons, this harside Samsonite may be the most durable and protective of them all. Not only was it able to fit our entire packing list, not one of those items shifted throughout our many durability tests. We shoved the suitcase off of a high counter multiple times and hit it (hard) with a bat in different places, and it showed no dents, scuffs, or markings whatsoever. If you had to gate check a carry-on at the last minute, this is the one you'll want to have.

We also love that all zippers (inside and outside of the bag) run easily and smoothly, even when the bag is stuffed full. The handle is sturdy and adjustable to two different heights as well. The bag was also easy to maneuver over various surfaces thanks to 360-degree wheels. While it's not the most lightweight option out there, we had no difficulties lifting it into the overhead bin of our T+L airplane and are sure it would be a great option to last for years to come.

The Details: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | 6.7 pounds | Limited 10-year warranty

Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner

• Value 4.7 /5

It’s an unbeatable price point for a set of three durable, minimalist suitcases.

The material looks a bit basic and is visibly branded with the Amazon logo.

When it comes to getting a great value for your money, nothing compares to this sleek and sturdy set from Amazon Basics. While we only tested the 20-inch carry-on, we were so impressed by it that we’re confident in the quality of the matching set, which includes a 20-inch carry-on, a 24-inch checked bag, and a 28-inch checked bag — all of which conveniently nest into each other for easy storage when not in use.

During testing, we found that the four spinner wheels could easily tackle bumps and sharp turns, rolling smoothly over carpets, pavement, hardwood floors, and more. We also appreciate the variety of storage compartments, which include three zippered compartments for convenient organization. The carry-on is quite roomy as well, easily fitting a week’s worth of clothes without even using the expander thanks to the compression straps.

The Details: 13.5 x 9.5 x 19 inches (20-inch), 16.75 x 10.5 x 23.5 inches (24-inch), 19.5 x 12 x 27.75 inches (28-inch) | 7.3 pounds (20-inch), 9.4 pounds (24-inch), 11.7 pounds (28-inch) | Expandable

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Backpack

Samsonite silhouette 17 backpack.

• Durability 4 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

The convertible design means it can be carried as a backpack, shoulder bag, or briefcase.

You’ll need to adjust the straps from time to time to keep them feeling secure.

This brilliant backpack checks all the boxes: it’s super lightweight; has a bevy of organizational features; and boasts padded, adjustable straps that evenly distribute the bag’s weight and are comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time. We love that this bag opens up like a suitcase, making it simple to pack and unpack quickly. It also boasts a three-way convertible design that adjusts to your trip’s needs: it functions as a backpack, shoulder bag, or briefcase. Inside, there are more compartments and pockets than most carry-on suitcases, with several zippered pockets of varying sizes, mesh dividers, and a spill-proof WetPak pocket for holding all your TSA-approved liquids. Best of all, it’s an absolute breeze to lift and slide in and out of overhead bins or under the seat in front of you.

The Details: 20 x 12.5 x 7 inches | 3.3 pounds | Expandable | Limited 10-year warranty

Best Duffel

Patagonia black hole 40l duffel bag.

• Portability 4.5 /5

Versatile carrying straps allow you to wear this as a backpack as well as a duffel.

The glossy look of the water-resistant exterior may not appeal to everyone’s sense of style.

Looking for a duffel that can function as either a carry-on or personal item ? How about one that also converts into a carry-on backpack for versatile carrying options? If so, you’ll love Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel as much as we do. It boasts a 40-liter capacity and a spacious pocket under the lid, as well as external zippered compartments for easy access to travel essentials like your passport and boarding pass. The rugged, ripstop fabric is thick to the touch and didn’t scratch or scuff in the slightest during our durability testing. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate that this lightweight duffel is ready to take on any adventure thanks to its extremely water-resistant construction — plus, it’s made from eco-friendly recycled materials. Best of all, it collapses down into a small inner pocket for easy, convenient storage in between trips.

The Details: 21 x 13.7 x 10.6 inches | 2.8 pounds | 40-liter capacity | Lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure / Nick Kova

Best Weekender

Béis the weekender.

• Durability 4.8 /5

There’s a separate, sturdy base compartment for your shoes and any other travel essentials.

It’s close to carry-on size, which may feel too large for some travelers.

Beis’ Weekender is the go-to of frequent flyers who want form and function. It’s got the brand’s signature functionality features , like a separate bottom compartment for shoes, toiletries, or your dirty laundry bag, plus a padded laptop sleeve, several small internal pockets, and more. There’s a removable shoulder strap along with a back zip-pocket that converts into a trolley sleeve for easy transport, too. While it’s got a bit of heft to it even while empty, its sturdiness is appreciated — unlike so many duffel-style bags, it won’t slip off of your suitcase even if you’re sprinting through the airport.

We love the bottom zippered compartment, which is perfect for storing toiletries or shoes separately so you don’t need to worry about leakage or dirtying your wardrobe. It’s one of several pockets and compartments that set this bag apart as an organizational hero for us, as small pouches are excellent for storing small essentials like keys, while larger pockets are perfect for tucking delicates, socks, and more.

The Details: 19 x 9.8 x 15.7 inches | 3.86 pounds | 49-liter capacity

Best Rolling Duffel

Eagle creek cargo hauler.

• Maneuverability 3 /5

It’s hyper lightweight and converts into a backpack. Plus, it comes with a handy packing cube for easy organization.

There’s no frame to support the bag, so it won’t stand up on its own.

Designed with an extremely large capacity, this 130-liter duffel is spacious enough to fit multiple weeks' worth of clothing with ease (if you’re flying with it, just be sure to check your airline’s weight restrictions). Heavy-duty external compression straps keep everything in place, while extra rugged wheels are made to ease the pain of lugging heavy loads across campsites or through the airport. We loved the storage bag that’s included, which you can use as a packing cube to help keep things organized.

There’s no exterior frame to support this bag when standing upright — and while this may be an inconvenience to some, we found it to be a huge plus because it makes the bag supremely lightweight for its large size. It’s also easier to wear as a backpack because of this, as there’s no hard frame digging into your back if you opt to convert the bag.

The Details: 34 x 13.75 x 15 inches | 4.7 pounds | 130-liter capacity

Best Garment Bag

Calpak garment bag.

• Ease of Use 4 /5
• Quality 5 /5
• Performance 4 /5

It’s stylish and functional, thanks to a variety of mesh and zippered pockets as well as a convenient, foldable design.

The bag isn’t very long, so most dresses will stick out the bottom.

The name says it all: this garment bag is impressively compact, featuring a fold-up design that’s perfect for tucking inside a carry-on. It is also available in a larger size , which is designed to fit inside a checked bag. Both fold and tighten easily, even when fully packed, although they’re a bit too small to fit high heels or men’s shoes if carrying this solo. Business travelers, wedding guests, and anyone else looking to keep their garments in wrinkle-free conditions will appreciate this modern bag, which boasts a variety of internal and external compartments that easily fit accessories like belts and jewelry. The only downside is that the bag is on the shorter side, so longer items like dresses don’t fit entirely inside and will hang out the bottom slightly, or you'll need to fold them.

The Details: 40 x 19 inches | 1.2 pounds | 1, 2, or 5-year limited warranty

Other Luggage for International Travel We Liked

We've tested so many pieces of luggage that there are some other pieces we can recommend for some travelers, although they weren't quite suited for our main list.

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-on : This carry-on is compact yet spacious and comes with a removable charger, but the wheels and handle didn't function as smoothly as some other bags on this list.

Tumi International Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-on : Dual-access compartments are ultra convenient for accessing your belongings, but ultimately we docked points as they eat into the main compartment space in this compact carry-on.

Béis The 29-inch Large Check-in Roller : While we love how capacious and chic this roller bag from Béis is, we found that it scuffed too easily in our durability testing.

eBags Mother Lode 29-inch Checked Rolling Duffel : While we found this rolling duffel easy to maneuver, we felt it was less versatile than other options since it doesn’t offer other carrying straps.

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L : Generously sized and comfortable to carry for long periods, this is a great backpack for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the sporty aesthetic may not appeal to everyone's sense of style.

The T+L team tested more than 250 carry-on and checked suitcases, as well as over 200 other travel bags including backpacks, duffels, and more in our New York City lab. We recreated an airplane set to best test carry-on bags just like we would on a real plane. Our first task was weighing the bags ourselves to make sure they were in line with their product descriptions, and then we performed a range of tests to assess the capacity, design, value, and durability of the bags. We also took careful note of their maneuverability, portability, and how comfortable they are to carry. We packed each size with a different amount of clothing and toiletries, from a week’s worth of essentials for a checked bag to two days of clothing for weekenders.

To see how the bags would perform in a real-life setting, we rolled them around on a variety of different floor types, including an obstacle course designed to test their maneuverability. We also hoisted them into overhead bins on our mock airplane, slung them over our shoulders, and stuffed them under real airplane seats. Next, for durability testing, we shoved each piece off a high countertop repeatedly and struck it all over with a metal baseball bat in order to evaluate potential wear and tear. The pieces that earned the highest ratings in all testing categories were selected for this roundup. After our initial tests, we continued to see how the bags fared over the course of six months in the real world.

Tips for Buying a Suitcase for International Travel

Choose a size that’s right for your travels.

It’s crucial to consider what kind of journey you’re most apt to take when searching for the ideal international luggage. After all, three months of continent-hopping calls for a very different set up from a week-long trip to a cosmopolitan capital. If you’re prone to shorter jaunts or know yourself to be a light packer, consider a classic carry-on or something even more compact, like a weekender bag. If you’ll be traveling longer term or have a hard time paring down your outfit options, opt for a larger carry-on or a checked bag.

Look for lightweight construction

No one wants to waste their baggage weight limit on a hefty piece of luggage. For softside suitcases, polyester and nylon materials are often the most lightweight, while hardside shells made of polycarbonate, polypropylene, and ABS are great options as well. Standard carry-ons weigh in around seven pounds, with the lightest-weight options ranging from 4.5 to 6.5 pounds when empty. Checked suitcases are slightly heavier, typically ranging from eight to 11 pounds. If you’re looking for something seriously lightweight, consider alternative options to a classic suitcase — think duffels, weekenders, or backpacks, which can weigh as little as two or three pounds.

Typically, the weight limit for carry-on luggage is around 35 pounds domestically, although carry-on weight limits are often only enforced on budget airlines. International flights may have stricter restrictions, so be sure to check your airline. When it comes to checked luggage, the rule of thumb is 50 pounds — but you can usually pack up to 70 pounds for an added cost .

Decide what organizational features you need

Suitcases are evolving to make packing easier than ever, boasting everything from designated laundry bags to zippered pockets for your tiniest trinkets. Some add-ons may be more relevant to your travel style — compression boards and packing cubes could be non-negotiables for overpackers, while tech lovers may have easy-access exterior pockets and charging ports at the top of the list. And remember, if you fall in love with a suitcase that doesn’t have everything you need — say, compression compartments or built-in security — you can always buy packing cubes or a combination lock separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

International airlines each have their own size and weight limits for baggage, so your best bet is to always look up your specific carrier’s requirements. But, generally speaking, a 21-inch carry-on (considered an “international” carry-on, as opposed to the standard, “domestic” 22-inch size) is a safe bet for most airlines both domestic and abroad.

There’s a whole bunch of stuff you can’t bring in your suitcase — just take a peek at TSA’s Instagram account for a glimpse (and a good laugh). Other than the obvious ones, like weapons or explosives, there are some specific items that are prohibited in carry-ons and checked luggage alike when traveling internationally, from certain amounts of liquids to alcoholic beverages, e-cigarettes, meats, dairy products, drones, and more. If you’re not sure about a certain item, be sure to check your airline’s (and destination’s) guidelines before packing.

Oftentimes, yes! While most domestic carry-ons can weigh up to 40 pounds (and may never be weighed), many international airlines only allow carry-on bags of up to 22 pounds (10 kilograms) and could strictly enforce this. You can often purchase more capacity ahead of time for a discounted price, but be sure to keep the restrictions in mind if you’ll be puddle jumping frequently, as the baggage costs can add up quickly. Checked luggage typically has the same weight limit internationally, offering up to 50 pounds before added fees kick in.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, T+L contributor Sophie Dodd researched every aspect of luggage suited to international travel, from TSA-approved dimensions to key organizational features and which materials are the most lightweight. She also relied on testing insights from the T+L team, who spent six months analyzing each bag on this list and ultimately giving these bags their seal of approval out of more than 450 tested bags.

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Keep calm and carry on: The best carry-on luggage for every kind of trip

Editor's Note

From frequent travelers to fashionistas, there is no "one size fits all" when it comes to carry-on luggage.

If you fly so often that you are on a first-name basis with your local airport's Transportation Security Administration agents, you need a carry-on suitcase that is durable enough to stand up to repeated use.

If your carry-on bag should be as stylish as you are, you'll want an eye-catching option that expresses your unique personality.

Backpacking through Europe or headed for the great outdoors? You'll need a carry-on bag that's both rugged and comfortable.

Related: Carry-on luggage showdown: Away vs. Roam

Regardless of how often or where you travel, we've rounded up the best of the best to help you find the carry-on bag that fits your travel style.

July Carry On Essential

Size: 21.5 inches by 15 inches by 8.5 inches.

Price: $255.

Buy now: July.com .

Before bringing its product to market, July pored over thousands of customer reviews of other luggage brands to determine what it could do to out-design the competition. The result is a carry-on suitcase that is crush-proof, scratch-proof and sophisticated.

Related: These are the checked bags carried by TPG's staff

The no-nonsense July Carry On Essential has only, well, the essentials – a sleek shell with a TSA lock, an interior compression system and a hidden laundry bag. July's bags are made to last, and it stands by that promise with a lifetime warranty and a 100-day return policy.

For an additional $40, you can order an upgraded version that includes metal bumpers and a portable power bank.

Away The Bigger Carry-On

Size: 22.7 inches by 14.7 inches by 9.6 inches.

Price: $295.

Buy now: Awaytravel.com .

This larger version of the original Away Carry-On isn't just bigger; it's better. The Bigger Carry-On is large enough to hold four-to-seven days' worth of clothing.

It's also made with a durable polycarbonate shell and has a slew of functional features like 360-degree spinning wheels, a TSA lock, an interior compression system and a waterproof laundry bag. For easy portable charging, you can pay an additional $20 to add a USB charger to your bag.

Related: Carry-on luggage showdown: Away vs. Rimowa

Just as, if not more important, The Bigger-Carry-On from Away comes in a range of colors, including limited-edition hues that are released throughout the year.

Whether you're looking for a suitcase in your favorite color or you just want something that stands out in a sea of black luggage, you are sure to find just what you are looking for.

Add more personalization with monograms and luggage tags in an array of colors and styles.

Beis The Carry-On Roller

Size: 22 inches by 14 inches by 9-12 inches.

Price: $198.

Buy now: Beistravel.com .

Beis bags are made to look just as good on their hundredth trip as they did on their first, all while gliding through the airport with ease and navigating even the bumpiest of cobblestone streets.

The Carry-On Roller from Beis comes in six colors that coordinate with other Beis products, so you can mix and match or go for the monochromatic look.

Related: 5 best backpacks for every travel style

Beis' The Carry-On Roller also has just the right amount of bells and whistles, with smooth-rolling 360-degree wheels, a cushioned trolley handle for comfort, a TSA lock, interior compression and a built-in weight indicator.

Also, because it's almost guaranteed you'll come home with more than you left with, this Beis bag expands with the simple pull of a zipper.

Monos Carry-On

Size: 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches.

Price: $255 (regular price $284).

Buy now: Monos.com .

With its sleek, rounded design and vegan leather accents, it may be hard to believe the Monos Carry-On is unbreakable and water-resistant. In fact, it performs as well as it looks in every aspect, from the telescopic handle with four adjustable height settings to the antimicrobial interior fabric.

Other standout features include a TSA-approved lock, a built-in compression system, a laundry bag, two shoe bags and a vegan leather luggage tag. Get it in standard colors like black, white and gray or have a little fun with pink, forest green, sky blue or one of Monos' limited-edition prints.

Rimowa Original Cabin Carry-On

Size: 21.7 inches by 15.8 inches by 9.1 inches.

Price: $1,400.

Buy now: Rimowa.com .

If you want a bag that can stand up to hundreds of thousands of miles of travel by air, by land and by sea, the Rimowa Original Cabin Carry-On is the gold standard ... and not just because it comes in metallic shades of gold, silver and black.

In addition to durability, the Rimowa Original Cabin Carry-On features TSA locks, a unique multiwheel system and adjustable interior dividers.

Related: Over 400,000 miles and counting: Review of the Rimowa carry-on bag

The Rimowa Original Cabin Carry-On comes with a steep price tag compared to most on this list, but it could potentially be a decade (or more) before you need a new one. Also, Rimowa backs up the longevity of its iconic aluminum suitcases with a lifetime guarantee.

Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Luggage

Size: 21 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches.

Price: $195.

Buy now: Calpaktravel.com .

Every bag in Calpak's Ambeur Collection shines in stylish shades of silver, gold, rose gold and metallic black, ensuring this carry-on luggage looks great rolling through the airport toward your next adventure.

Related: I fly almost 100,000 miles per year and don't travel without these packing cubes from Calpak

This hard-sided carry-on suitcase weighs in at a super-lightweight 6 pounds. However, it still has room for handy details like a TSA combination lock, interior organization pockets, compression straps and the ability to expand up to 2 inches.

Paravel Grand Tour Set

Size: The carry-on is 21.7 inches by 13.7 inches by 9 inches; the duffle is 20 inches by 11 inches by 10 inches.

Price: $675.

Buy now: Tourparavel.com .

The Paravel Grand Tour Set includes the brand's popular Grand Tour Duffle and the Aviator Carry-On suitcase. The duffle is best for weekend trips, while the carry-on is better for three-to-four-day trips. Both easily fit in airplane overhead compartments and are made with eco-friendly recycled materials.

Both pieces of luggage have interior and exterior pockets to keep your items tidy. The carry-on also features an interior compression board and a removable laundry bag. Both pieces can be customized with a monogram in a variety of colors.

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On

Size: 21.25 inches by 15.25 inches by 10 inches.

Price: $179.

Buy now: Amazon.com .

Samsonite has been making luggage for more than 100 years, so it knows a thing or two about creating long-lasting suitcases with features travelers want.

This hard-sided bag is ultra-light and made with a scratch-resistant exterior in a rainbow of eye-catching colors like tangerine orange and amethyst purple, plus the requisite neutral shades.

The Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On from Samsonite also has smooth-rolling 360-degree spinner wheels, a TSA lock, interior compression and organization, and can be expanded if you need a bit of extra space.

Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner

Size: 22 inches by 14.9 inches by 10 inches.

Price: $120.

The 21-inch Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner has a budget-friendly price tag but doesn't sacrifice style or function. This hard-sided carry-on has an extra-thick textured finish designed to keep scuffs and scratches at bay. It also comes in various colors that coordinate with other pieces in the collection.

Related: Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card review

The double spinner wheels ensure a smooth ride, and the expandable zipper can net you up to 15% more space for those times when you just can't quite fit everything you need without sitting on your suitcase to force it closed.

Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack

Size: 24 inches by 15 inches by 4 inches.

Price: $178.

If you need a carry-on bag large enough to store all your travel essentials yet comfortable enough to carry while hiking through a new city (or running between airport terminals), the Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack is the perfect addition to your luggage lineup.

This backpack features a breathable back panel that provides structure and comfort, exterior and interior organization so you can always find what you need and adjustable shoulder straps and a hip belt for a custom fit.

Bottom line

No matter where you're headed or how you plan to get there, you need a carry-on bag that can smoothly navigate the terrain (even if that terrain is the airport's moving walkway) and hold everything you need for your adventures.

Every bag on this list looks good and performs well enough that you'll likely find the one that deserves a spot in your closet.

Related: The best credit cards for online shopping

The Best Luggage Brands to Buy in 2024

These are the top-tested suitcases for all of your travel needs.

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

Our top picks

Best Overall Luggage

Best Value Luggage

American tourister.

Best Carry-On Luggage

Best Luggage for International Travel

Briggs & riley.

Best Under-$100 Luggage

Amazon basics.

Best Luggage for Frequent Flyers

Best Viral Luggage

Best Luggage for Flight Crews

Best Printed Luggage

Best Fashion Luggage

Each piece of luggage is evaluated by experts in the Lab as well as consumer testers on the go. In the Lab, we look at factors like durability, ease of use and more. We also pack each suitcase with a standard load to see how much it can hold and how easy the compartments are to access. Consumer testers come into the Lab to use the luggage in an obstacle course, where they weigh in on handle comfort, wheel performance, maneuverability and more. Finally, we send luggage out with travelers into the real world for firsthand feedback.

You can learn more about how we test luggage and what to consider as you shop — including how to decide between hardside and softside luggage — but first, here's everything you need to know about our top-tested luggage brands.

Samsonite earns our top spot for the best luggage brand because it has a wide assortment for every preference — from business travelers to vacationers — and has continuously proven to be high quality as we've tested it over the years.

In particular, it stands out for its durability and ease-of-use features: There's been no struggling to open and close the cases, and packing them has been a breeze , thanks to the functional compartments that maximize space. It's certainly not inexpensive, but as direct-to-consumer luggage brand prices have skyrocketed, Samsonite's have remained fairly consistent.

Both hardside and softside styles from the brand have excelled in our tests. We've also been impressed by each of the sizes, including carry-ons, checked bags and underseat luggage. Some of our favorite models include the Freeform hardside (pictured here), the Solyte DLX softside and the Stryde Glyder , which is a checked case that's wide instead of tall so it's less likely to tip over.

A consumer tester rolling the Samsonite Freeform carry-on through an obstacle course at the Good Housekeeping Institute.

If you're on a budget or you don’t use luggage regularly — i.e., it doesn’t need to be the most durable and you don’t need all the bells and whistles — American Tourister offers competitive pricing and an excellent variety to choose from . There are a lot of options if you prefer bright colors and fun prints, plus there are cases for the entire family, including a Disney collection . Between the designs and versatile offerings, the models are fun, functional and especially ideal for vacationers.

Just note that while luxury hardside cases are usually made of polycarbonate, American Tourister typically uses ABS plastic, which is more affordable but more prone to scratches. Still, it gets high ratings from online reviewers who note that the bags are surprisingly spacious. Another perk: The brand offers luggage sets for an even better value, especially if you need to purchase multiple pieces. Pictured here is the Pop Max Softside set , which at $150 for a set of three, is less than other single cases.

Away is one of the most popular luggage brands on the market, and our testing shows it actually lives up to its hype. Though the brand has a wide range of offerings, we especially love the hardside carry-on.

It's made of 100% polycarbonate that proved to be durable and lightweight in our evaluations — even lighter than some fabric bags we’ve tested. It was also surprisingly spacious and held a full packing load in our review. The company offers a 100-day return policy on unused items; it also offers a lifetime limited warranty on its suitcases that covers any "functional damage."

Besides the main Carry-On model , it comes in variations like a Bigger Carry-On (which the brand says can hold 20% more) and a Carry-On Flex (which has an expandable zipper). We also love the brand's Everywhere Bag , which is a stylish and surprisingly spacious weekender.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: We Tested Away's Trendy Carry-On to See If It's Worth The Price

An inside view of Away's The Carry On.

Briggs & Riley

Briggs & Riley bags are pricey — a carry-on can cost over $600 — but they come with a lifetime guarantee that will cover all repairs if the luggage ever gets broken or damaged. They also come with innovative features, such as the brand's signature compression packing system. Bags that have this feature expand to let you pack and then compress down after they're filled. In fact, one of our testers said she packed a week's worth of summer clothes for two people into a compact carry-on, and it easily fit into an airline's overhead bin.

The suitcases also use top-notch construction and timeless designs in a range of styles, including hardside, softside, carry-ons and checked bags. The Baseline Global Carry-On Spinner (pictured here in the 21-inch version) has been a selected as GH Family Travel Award winner for the past two years after travel testers gave it perfect scores across the board. Its nylon fabric also aced our Lab's abrasion tests.

The interior compartment of Briggs & Riley's Baseline Carry-On, including its easy-to-use expansion button.

It’s hard to find good luggage for under $100, but Amazon’s luggage does not disappoint. There are softside and hardside styles to choose from, plus garment bags , duffels and more. Amazon also boasts extensive testing to make sure their products will hold up, and though the luggage might not the absolute best quality out there, the price can’t be beat.

We were impressed with its hardside 20-inch spinner carry-on (pictured here) when we tested it on our Lab. Our analysts found it to be exceptionally easy to pack, though the ABS material wasn't as scratch-resistant as other models in our tests. Still, consumer testers liked the maneuverability and wheel performance. This style also comes in two other sizes (24 and 28 inches) and can be purchased as a two- or three-piece set.

This luxury brand is on the pricey side but has timeless designs — from hardside to tweed fabric — that never go out of style. In fact, the brand’s marketing and aesthetics are focused heavily on its heritage. It has been a top performer in our tests, thanks to its spacious interior that's easy to pack and its wheels and handles that make it smooth and comfortable to maneuver.

The hardside cases have earned high scores in our tests — especially standing out for being scratch-resistant, lightweight and spacious — but we also love the softside Legend collection (pictured here), which is made of durable tweed fabric and leather trim.

This fashionable yet functional travel brand was founded by actress Shay Mitchell and incorporates smart features designed to make traveling easier. It also has a stunning aesthetic, including monochromatic color schemes in which the handles and hardware match the case.

Pictured here is the Carry-On Roller, its best-selling case that comes in a range of neutral and fun hues. It was spacious for packing and easy to maneuver in our tests, and though it did scuff during use, it resisted dents well during our Lab's drop tests. Another popular style is its Mini Weekender , which can be used as a personal item that fits underneath the airplane seat in front of you.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Experts Weigh In on Buzzy Travel Brand Béis

The Béis carry-on and compact weekender bag being used as a travel set.

This company was founded by a pilot, and it makes luggage specifically for airline personnel who travel for a living. Still, it's just as functional for business and leisure travelers.

The brand primarily sells softside luggage, though it does have some hardside options available. There’s excellent attention to detail that makes frequent flying easier, like cushioning around the handles for comfort, self-aligning wheels that let you roll the luggage in any direction and abrasion-resistant nylon fabric.

The Platinum Elite softside luggage (pictured here) stood out in our Lab tests. Not only was it durable, but it was also spacious enough to hold our entire load with room to spare. The downside was that it was heavier than others, but it's a fair tradeoff for the top-of-the-line features.

This brand increases the fun factor and makes it easier to spot your luggage in a sea of solid colors. There are adorable animal sets for kids' luggage , animal prints for adults and more. There are also options for licensed teams and art (like Britto, shown here), making your suitcase a playful yet functional accessory.

When it comes to materials, most Heys suitcases are hardside and made of polycarbonate and ABS composite. This means it's mostly ABS plastic but has a polycarbonate coating on the outside for added protection. The brand wasn't the most durable in our tests, it but earned high ease-of-use scores.

Style is certainly important when it comes to luggage — it's an accessory, after all — but you don't want to sacrifice quality and functionality. Calpak's cases are both well-made and have unique designs. Though its assortment is tailored with fewer models than some of the big brands, Calpak still has a wide range of materials to choose from, including sleek hardside polycarbonate, printed ABS/polycarbonate blends and ripstop polyester.

Calpak's Ambeur carry-on (pictured here) was one of our testers' favorites; they especially loved the easy-to-use telescopic handle and metallic color. We also found it to be easy to pack and though it wasn't as scratch-resistant as some others we tested (which is expected for ABS composites), it still withstood dents and damage from our durability drop test.

Rolling TUMI luggage through the airport is like a status symbol; the brand is highly recognized for its upscale products for both business and leisure travelers.

In addition to its suitcases , it makes accessories like briefcases and backpacks and has components that make traveling easier, like an anti-slip strap on carrying bags and an extra hook on rolling bags so you can wheel multiple items at once. On top of that, the brand stands out for its unique service offerings, like repairs and luggage registration to help you find lost bags.

We especially love Tumi's Alpha collection (pictured here is the Alpha carry-on ) with its durable materials and removable garment sleeve. One GH analyst who has been using a backpack in this collection appreciates that it fits more than you'd expect and has a versatile design for travel, work and beyond.

If you’re going away for weeks or just have lots to pack, L.L.Bean’s duffels are roomy enough to stuff in everything you need. There are options with or without wheels and lots of sizes to choose from (the Adventure Rolling Duffel , shown here, is incredibly durable and one of our go-to picks for vacations with kids).

The flexible shape of the duffel also allows it to store easily under your bed, so it’s perfect for college students or anyone tight on storage space. It’s also made of sturdy, water-resistant nylon fabric that's made to last no matter where your travels take you — in fact, one of our experts says it's lasted for years without signs of wear. She does note that it's a little more cumbersome to pull than four-wheel spinner luggage and it's spaciousness makes it easy to go over the 50-pound weight limit for airlines, but says it's perfect for packing for two kids.

Monos says its design philosophy is "less is more," — meaning the bags are made to be simple and timeless to avoid passing trends and high quality so they can stand the test of time. Most of its hardside bags are entirely polycarbonate, though some combine polycarbonate and aluminum for increased durability. They also have useful packing features like wide compression straps to help you fit more in the case.

The Check-In Large was a winner of last year's GH Family Travel Awards because of its spacious interior and maneuverability. Testers said it was easy to roll and they loved the sleek appearance. It's also worth noting that the brand has a 100-day return period so you can get a refund if it's not a good fit.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Here's Why Travelers Love the Monos Luggage Collection

Monos luggage shown in three sizes: Check-in Large, Check-in Medium and Carry-on

Eagle Creek

Whether you’re backpacking internationally or exploring a national park, Eagle Creek gives you both the convenience and durability you need in a bag. Some have various compartments so you can stay organized (or store shoes and dirty laundry separately), and some bags have backpack straps if you need to be hands-free.

We especially love the Cargo Hauler Duffel for shorter trips: It’s affordable, spacious, lightweight and folds up into a small pouch for easy storage. For longer getaways, the Migrate Wheeled Duffel (pictured here) is larger and has two wheels with a telescopic handle. It also opens wide so you can easily access the contents.

Eagle Creek's Migrate Wheeled Duffel, left, being checked in at an airport terminal.

Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.

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The Best Travel Bags for Wherever You’re Headed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Carry-On for Most People

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

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

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On

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

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

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

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

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On

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

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

Best Bag for a Lifetime

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

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

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

Julian Chokkattu

Brenda Stolyar

Best Backpack

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

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

Best Convertible Bag

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

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

Best Personal Item

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

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

Best Work Bag

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

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

The Best Hiking Daypack

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

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

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

Best Duffel Bag

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

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

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

The Best Expedition Bag

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

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

Best for Camping

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

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

The Best Aluminum Suitcase

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

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

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

A Good Emergency Go Bag

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

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

Other Bags We Like

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bags We Don’t Like

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

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

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

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

A Few Travel Accessories

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Pick the Right Size Bag

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

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

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

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

When to Remove Battery Banks

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

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

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

Adrienne So

Medea Giordano

Parker Hall

Nena Farrell

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The Perfect Luggage for Avoiding Airport Chaos Is Here

Because stress-free travel starts with having the right gear.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

But choosing the best luggage is not always as easy as it seems. The variety of options on the market can make shopping for a new large suitcase or carry-on feel like driving through a dark tunnel without a navigation system. This guide here on the best luggage brands will help shine a little light on your trek, aiding you in choosing the right luggage for your budget.

Best Overall Luggage Brand

The Close Second

The Frequent Favorite

Best Investment Luggage Brand

Best Softside Luggage Brand

Best Luggage Sets

Best Luggage for Hauling Gear

Peak design.

Best Luggage for Apple AirTag Users

Best Adventure Luggage Brand

Eagle creek.

Best Luggage for Minimalist Travelers

Which brand of suitcase i s best.

The editors and writers at Men's Health are constantly on the go. From working assignments in LA to taking tropical vacations in Madeira, we make it a point to test all the best luggage brands in our adventures. Over the past four years alone, we've tested well over 40 different luggage brands to find the perfect piece. Here, we bring you the 17 best luggage brands of 2024 in one clean list, with Samsonite commanding our top spot of the best luggage brand overall due to the brand's outstanding durability, clean design, and wallet-friendly price.

No matter if you’re looking for a one-size-fits-all bag or an entire luggage set, these are the best luggage brands on the market that will get you cruising without the stress of schlepping some raggedy old case. Ready to see the list?

Travel Awards | Best Travel Gadgets | Best Travel Shoes | Best Travel Pillows | Best Travel Pants | Best AirTag Wallets

Price Point ($-$$$): $ | Hardside or Softside: Both | Warranty: 10 years

Samsonite makes the best affordable suitcases and luggage sets in our eyes. While the brand is in just about every major department store, the best place to buy Samsonite luggage is on Amazon. The retailer carries some of Samsonite's highest-rated products that won't burn a hole in your wallet. You can score an entire hard-sided set for under $300 or shop the brand's durable nylon singles . The items might not be as feature-loaded and reinforced as some of the other brands, but you will be surprised at how far your luggage will go before you need replacing.

When asking Justin Crabbe , the CEO of Jettly, a private jet charter service, about his go-to luggage brand, he mentioned Samsonite as one of the most well-priced and reliable brands that come to mind. "With lightweight yet durable material, superior design, and multiple compartments for packing with ease, it is a traveler’s dream come true," says Crabbe.

Our Senior Gear and Commerce Editor, John Thompson, always seems to find himself traveling with Samsonite too. " Time and time again I think I need to upgrade my luggage, and then I come back to my softside Samsonite carry-on I've held onto for over 5+ years," he says. " It [my carry-on] has been my companion with me through many adventures, from high altitude camping trips in Colorado to overseas adventures in countries like China and Germany." Thompson also notes his Samsonite's all-black fabric body has resisted scratches and marks over time, which makes it suitable for business trips as a clean piece that will blend in among the other bags—and not stand out for being all mangled and disheveled.

Read more: Viral TikTok Travel Essentials

Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Both | Warranty: Lifetime

You must be living under a rock if this is your first time hearing about the magic that is Away luggage. The simple-yet-modern design makes you actually love to carry the brand's bags. Away's claim to fame comes from the brand's built-in battery packs that can power up your devices. Our Fashion Director, Ted Stafford, is a huge fan of Away due to the brand's attention to detail in the design process. " The interior of the suitcase has a streamlined design, which offers ample space to fit all your necessary items in an uncluttered and organized way ," says Stafford. " Plus, Away’s suitcases are extremely lightweight, so you can easily maneuver to and from your destination without pulling your muscles or overexerting unnecessary energy—to me, that kind of ease is invaluable at a price that’s very fair.”

The carry-on sizes come in a traditional option and a bigger carry-on for certain airlines that allow it. The brand also innovated on its hard-sided luggage collection, and now makes a full line of soft-sided durable ballistic nylon and outer pocket additions.

Read more: Long Flight Essentials

Price Point ($-$$$): $ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: 10 years

What would the best luggage guide be without TravelPro? The legacy brand has been a longtime favorite of frequent travelers, soft luggage fans, and, yes, even pilots and flight attendants. TravelPro sets are wallet-friendly and its bags are constructed with function in mind (we especially love how durable the 360-wheels and handles are on its pieces).

Nadia Podrabinek , a travel writer and founder of Why This Place, is a huge fan of her expandable soft side Travelpro carry-on due to the high quality of design for an affordable price. "The lightweight construction that does not sacrifice on quality, allowing you to travel with peace of mind; and the four-wheel spinner design makes maneuvering through airports easy, while numerous pockets help keep your items organized," Podrabinek says.

Travelpro might not be the most flashy brand, but there's a reason so many travel writers (and flight attendants) love the brand.

Read more: Best Men's Clothing Brands

Price Point ($-$$$): $$$ | Hardside or Softside: Both | Warranty: 5 years

Tumi is for the slick traveler on the move that appreciates design as much as they do function. The longtime brand founded back in 1975 makes sure every new piece of luggage helps aim to solve common travel qualms. Tumi's carry-on bags and backpacks are made with several easy-access zippered compartments to help breeze through TSA lines, and the brand's add-a-bag sets are designed to lug around two to three bags at one time with one hand.

Adam Mansuroglu, a former Style & Commerce Editor at Men's Health is a Tumi fan. "I've had my Tumi 19 Degree carry-on case for a few years now ; and whenever I want to feel a bit fancier and pretend like I live that jet-set life, I make sure to carry that silver stunner," Mansuroglu says. " I t not only looks sleek and stylish—it can hold a surprising amount of shoes for a fashion editor who can't seem to ever travel light."

It's no secret Tumi is one of the more expensive luggage brands around, but if can pony up the investment you'll be happy knowing you'll have a sleek bag that's going to last you for many years to come.

Read more: Best Dopp Kits

Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: 3 years

Calling all gearheads. If you're an adventure traveler, Yeti has your back (literally, with the brand's first Crossroads backpack series). In this line of luggage, you'll find dry bags for white water rafting, carryalls, and classic rolling luggage and duffels that can withstand just about anything without showing much wear and tear. These bags are made for utility and function with a willingness to get tossed around and dirty with an easy clean.

Due to the tough construction of Yeti luggage, it's no wonder the bags have become a favorite for adventure tourists in the past few years. Geordie Mackay-Lewis , co-founder of Pelorus , a bespoke agency that plans exotic travel and yacht experiences, loves to pack Yeti bags for client excursions. " For our more adventurous trips, we pack our soft and fully waterproof Yeti bags, which can easily be thrown into a RIB or helicopter ," Mackay-Lewis says. " They also have great camera bags, which we’ve been using on client trips and reconnaissance missions for years."

It's worth mentioning only some of the Yeti bags are completely waterproof, but most are water-resistant.

Read more: Best Backpacks for Men

Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Hardside | Warranty: 5 years

Calpak’s popularity is right up there with AWAY, but a major difference is the organizational approach of each brand. Almost all of Calpak's luggage has separate sleeves for shoes, zip pockets for smaller items, compartments for magazines, and straps to hold it all in place. Plus, they make some of the best matching luggage sets around, including a full line of accessories that make packing easier.

Christen Nicole , a FORA Travel Advisor and travel blogger, told us the Astyll 3-Piece Set has been her current go-to for travels for the past two years. " I've loved how the polycarbonate shell has kept my belongings secure, and how the spacious interior pocket dividers have kept everything in its place," Nicole says. When it comes to naming her favorite bag in the set, she finds the carry-on to be the best piece overall due to its combination of generous space (up to 45 liters) with a light build (6 pounds in weight).

If you're someone who has to frequently sit on your suitcase to close it, then opting for Calpak will help turn you into an efficient packing pro. The brand's packing cubes and organizers are excellent at categorizing items, and the suitcases are deep and roomy.

Read more: Most Comfortable Hoodies

Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: Lifetime

Smart, sexy, and functional as heck, are three words we'd describe Peak Design luggage. The West Coast-based brand originally started in making camera equipment—like carbon fiber tripods—but over time started venturing into camera bags, then everyday bags, then actual travel bags. Products like the Travel Backpack and Travel Duffel offer durable, water-resistant protection for everything from clothes to electronics.

We love how Peak Designs keeps things simple for the look of each bag, making sure to omit tacky logo placements and over-the-top colors, and instead go with a classic all-black look, plus a few natural color combinations on some specific bags.

Samara's luggage pieces are as sleek and stylish as they come. And while they look beautiful from a design standpoint, the one area that deserves recognition is their high level of functionality. We're talking about a strong aluminum frame, 360-degree spinner wheels, and telescopic handles. Plus, all Samsara luggage comes with Tag Smart, which is a unique design configuration made in the luggage to allow for easy placement of your Apple AirTag.

Our Senior Gear and Commerce Editor, John Thompson, likes to use his Samsara carry-on whenever he wants to switch over to a hardshell suitcase. "Right now, there's no other brand making such a well design AirTag holder for keeping tabs on its suitcase," Thompson says.

We also found the built-in portable charger is easy to pop out and use, and it works great when powering bigger electronics like laptops and over-ear headphones .

Read more: Best AirTag Wallets

Eagle Creek is known for its no-nonsense and affordable gear that caters to outdoor adventurers. The brand makes some of the best dang packing cubes one could buy, and if you follow up the product ladder you'll land on the different luggage pieces those very cubes can be stored inside. Eagle Creek makes only soft luggage, but the materials are often super tear resistant and the designs offer lots of utility and opportunity for smarter configurations of how to store everything from clothes and hiking essentials to camera gear.

Jackson Groves , travel photographer, adventurer, and founder of the travel blog journeyera.com, told us his personal favorite Eagle Creek bag is his Gear Warrior roller suitcase. " The Gear Warrior's rugged construction and water-resistant materials ensure that my belongings stay safe and protected even in challenging environments; and its spacious main compartment and multiple interior and exterior pockets offer ample storage space for all my essentials, allowing me to stay organized on the go," Groves says. " The durable wheels and retractable handle make maneuvering through airports, trails, and uneven terrain a breeze."

What we love the most about Eagle Creek is they have a no questions asked warranty policy, so if something were to get damaged on your travels, the brand will make sure either repair or replace your bag.

Read more: Best Camping Essentials

Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: Lifetiime

Osprey makes a number of trusted duffle bags and backpacks that are suitable for minimalist travelers and adventure junkies. The brand shines brightest in its travel backpack offerings. Yes, the packs work amazing for actually backpacking, but due to Osprey's commitment to loading its products with tough materials and premium features—like carrying belts and smart pocket configurations—we've found the backpacks work seriously good for fast weekend getaway trips, no serious outdoor adventuring required.

Scott Cundy, Founder of Wildland Trekking and Intrepid Travel Director of Marketing, The Americas, swears by his Osprey Aether Plus 100 for everything from wilderness backpacking to conventional travel. " It has fantastic capacity at about 6,000 cubic inches, is durable, has an extremely robust hip belt which keeps the weight off my shoulders, and any great pockets," says Cundy. "M y favorite feature of this pack though is how the top loader is removable and becomes a very useable day pack."

The best part about traveling with an Osprey backpack is you can fit your laptop inside with two to three days of clothes and never have to worry about hauling a carry-on or duffel bag to your destination.

Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: 2 years

OGIO can transport a wardrobe quite well, but what the brand is truly exceptional at is transporting gear. Whatever equipment you might want to take with you on your next big trip, an OGIO bag will work as a checked luggage option to get your prized possessions from point A to point B.

This prior notion is especially true when it comes to traveling with golf clubs, as pieces like their ALPHA Travel Cover help you roll your clubs through a terminal without any snagging or other inconveniences. "G reat product to carry clubs. Kept everything safe and has lockable zippers," said one Amazon reviewer.

Read more: Best Golf Bags

Price Point ($-$$$): $ | Hardside or Softside: Hardside | Warranty: 2 years

Coolife prides itself on constant innovation. The company was started in the '80s and has evolved to be as modern and relevant as today's big players, like AWAY and Calpak. The aesthetic is quite similar to such brands, with minimally-hued hardshell cases that protect your precious goods and spin nicely. While you don't get the popular brand name, you will get a far better price point, (we're talking under $200 for a two-piece set), making Coolife luggage a major bang for the buck you're spending.

Plus, the Amazon reviews on Coolife luggage are exceptional. " It [the set] cost less than a single suitcase in other stores and includes perfect sizes with the largest being expandable; don’t hesitate to buy these when you need luggage," said one Amazon reviewer. The three-piece set has over 1,000 five-star reviews alone.

Price Point ($-$$$): $$$ | Hardside or Softside: Hardside | Warranty: Lifetime

For over 120 years, Rimowa has been making hard-sided luggage, first starting with wooden suitcases and then moving to sturdy aluminum bags. Now, RIMOWA uses ultra-lightweight polycarbonate in its bags. The brand is known for pushing the boundaries of innovation. Though they come in at a luxury price point, these bags will last for well over a decade. Just take a look at this review a Rimowa buyer left at Nordstrom.com: " On our first trip using this suitcase, my entire family fought over who got to roll the Rimowa because it was just SO MUCH LIGHTER and maneuverable than our other suitcases. It’s sleek, sturdy, light and has great details and added features." The hard-sided shell might look intimidating at first, but once you feel how lightweight and easy this is to the wheel, you'll wonder why you haven't invested in it sooner.

Read more: Best Sunglasses

Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Hardside | Warranty: Lifetime

If you're looking for unique luggage that will stand out in baggage claim, look no further. Not only are Roam 's designs multi-colored, the brand even offers the option to make it uniquely yours in their own design studio. Roam makes the best-checked luggage for that reason along with being light in weight, easy to wheel around, and extra secure with a locking system. "I was an early adopter of the Roam Journey. I traveled all over the world with it. It is lightweight and the customization options really make it pop on the conveyor belt. No more episodes of other people accidentally grabbing my mundane black bag," said one Roam reviewer.

We had thoughts about the carry-on looking small when we first got our hands on one, but the bag can surprisingly fit many days' worth of outfits. The only con about the carry-on thought is it comes without outer organizational pockets, so you'll have to store smaller belongings and electronics inside the bag.

You're probably going to be most impressed by Monos on this list. The Canadian brand makes luggage with a cool minimalist aesthetic that is efficient in packing space thanks to organized internal compartments and packing cubs. It seems as if the brand has thoroughly thought of every travel hiccup and created its products to solve those common issues. The Monos carry-on features a fold-out tech pocket that doesn't compromise the unbreakable aluminum and polycarbonate hybrid shell. The result of all of this: durable aluminum, lightweight polycarbonate, and soft-sided organization features. The wheels are virtually noiseless, and the brand's accessories snap perfectly into place among the entire line of luggage. It all looks and feels expensive, probably because it isn't cheap—but it will make your travel dreams so much better.

Price Point ($-$$$): $$$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: Lifetime

Filson has captured the hearts of travelers who love timeless rugged design. While the Seattle brand doesn't carry any hard luggage, Filson does make some grade-A soft luggage. Everything from their duffle bags to messenger bags is perfect for short trips and for carry-on duties. One Filson review mentioned how well his duffel bag performed on a trip abroad. " Used it on a 10-day trip to Europe in winter; paired it up with a carry-on and this was perfect to fit bulkier items like boots, sweaters, and jackets," said the Filson.com reviewer.

The initial investment on any Filson bag is a pretty penny, but the quality materials like USA-sourced leather and tear-resistant canvas point to your bag lasting a long long time—and look better with every new sign of wear and tear, no less.

July is another luggage brand that's made a splash in recent years. The attention to detail in design, combined with stylish silhouettes, has brought forth a line of pieces that look great standalone and even better together. "The suitcase packed a lot of clothes very nicely as I traveled all through the Middle East, France, and Amsterdam. It rolls so easily it made the whole trip quite enjoyable. It seems very sturdy, and it is great looking," said one July reviewer.

July luggage comes in a ton of colors and—best of all—the brand offers small personalization services like monogramming and images of your pets. Yes, you heard that right pet parents.

Read more: Best Sling Bags

Why Trust Us

• In order to keep up with new innovations and product releases, the Men's Health editors and writers are continually testing the latest travel gear. Aside from covering travel gear in our evergreen roundups, we also highlight the best new travel gear in our gift guides and annual Travel Awards .
• When it comes to luggage, we make sure to line up real-world testing opportunities anytime we're on assignment or traveling for pleasure. Then, we bring the luggage back to our office to thoroughly inspect each bag to determine what design notes surprised us, and what could use more work.
• We consider how luggage brands appeals to specific types of traveler, as opposed to making generic assumptions that every traveler's needs are the same. We take into account everything from checked bags to carry-ons, to duffel bags and travel backpacks. Travelers who come to us will gain a full understanding of the luggage landscape and how it fits their lifestyle.

Read more: Learn How Men's Health Tests Products

How to Find the Right Luggage

Like your favorite pair of jeans , your favorite piece of luggage is going to come from a brand that fits your lifestyle. When looking for the best suitcase brand, you're going to want to write down what quantities you desire in your luggage. Here's what you should look for.

Frequency of Travel

The right luggage is going to fit with how you travel. If you're only going out of town a handful times a year, then you don't necessarily need to splurge on a super expensive suitcase or suitcase set. In fact, we'd recommend going for a wallet-friendly suitcase or set from brands like Samsonite or Coolife if you're not traveling that often, as these brands will hold up for years with light to medium use and not cost you very much upfront. If you're traveling a lot (for pleasure, business, or both) then you're going to probably want to lean towards making an investment in a piece of luggage that's made to handle continuous wear and tear. "When it comes to buying the right piece for your travel needs, my advice is always to opt for something that fits your lifestyle and budget," says Justin Crabbe.

How You Travel

After estimating how much you will be traveling throughout the year, you can start to write down your travel habits, or how you travel. Do you pack heavy or pack light? What features do you want or need? This is where features like TSA locks, 360-degree wheels, special laptop compartments, built-in portable chargers, and more are to be considered. "Look for ways to elevate your internal organization, like dividers, pockets, and sections that will help you keep your belongings organized and easily accessible during your travels," says Sean Oblizalo. Another note: if you're into adventure traveling, look for a bag that's more flexible, lightweight, and made with weather-resistant materials is your best option. "Look for sturdy fabrics such as nylon or polyester, reinforced stitching, and strong zippers to ensure your luggage can handle the demands of outdoor adventures," says Jackson Groves.

You also want to consider how much you are willing to pay for your suitcase. Some suitcase brands are expensive because they get grouped into high fashion, but suitcases can also be expensive because they're known to last a long time (it's worth mentioning the best luggage brands have a kind of timeless style attributed to them). A few of the best suitcase brands that require a significant investment include RIMOWA, Tumi, and Filson. If you're looking for suitcase brands that provide the best overall value (for the price you pay), consider makers like Samsonite, TravelPro, and CooLife.

Lastly, take note of each luggage brand's warranty. A warranty will help get your suitcase replaced or fixed should it have any issues (like a broken off wheel or damaged handle). Most luggage brands have pretty good warranties these days (usually 5-10 years) but the best warranty you can get on a suitcase is a lifetime warranty. Warranties can be huge for frequent travelers, as your suitcase will wear down with high usage. If you are a frequent traveler, or if you're someone who simply wants the best warranty you can get, go with a suitcase that has a lifetime policy. Premium luggage brands are more likely to have lifetime warranties, so this can be another benefit to going up and investing in an expensive suitcase.

Is Hardside or Softside Luggage Better?

The most popular luggage comes in either a hard-sided or soft-sided structured bag. Like mentioned earlier, the pros and cons of both depend on what you prioritize when you pack. Soft-sided luggage typically has more room for movement, more organizational pockets, and can compress to fit into tight spaces (like the overhead of an airplane). They open with a top flap zip, placing the bulk of storage at the bottom. Softside luggage offers more packing room, but it can throw off the balance of your goods when it’s tossed around and stowed away by airline employees. Basically, soft-sided luggage does not provide as much protection as hard-sided bags—but they are roomier.

Read more: Transformative Trips Every Guy Should Take

Due to advances in making polycarbonate more durable and lighter, hard-sided bags started gaining popularity in the past few years Hardside luggage features a 50/50 split opening (also called a book opening), making each side an equal stabilizer with an outer shell of hard protection. Polycarbonate shells are typically better for business travel. They stack easily but are usually rigid with zero room to expand like a soft-sided bag. The latest hard-sided bags look sleeker and are easier to clean and move—but they require you to be more strategic in your packing.

Other features that you’ll want to consider are weight and wheelability. Many modern suitcases are designed in the lightest possible form, along with four spinner wheels that can swivel 360 degrees to make rolling around the airport, pavement, or hotel floor a breeze.

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Protect Your Trip »

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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The Best Luggage For Travel, According To Flight Attendants

Shopping Writer for HuffPost

Navigating airport terminals, crowded gates and narrow plane aisles is arguably the most stressful aspect of air travel — an experience made even worse when you’re dragging around cumbersome luggage . It’s a scenario any harried traveler can relate to.

The only people who seem to be immune to clumsy baggage woes are flight attendants . Strolling along in their neat uniforms, these frequent-flyers seem to have mastered the art of streamlined travel and know just what to look for when it comes baggage that is functional, easy to maneuver and perpetually organized.

Lucky for us, a few flight attendants shared their secrets and divulged some of their favorite brands and luggage options for everything from carry-ons, checked bags and personal travel, as well as some other suitcase-related tips and tricks.

Read on to find hard-shell suitcases that glide like butter, a multi-compartment carry-on that holds more than you think, a sleek laptop tote that’s a must-have for business travel and the one piece of baggage you need when traveling with a kiddo .

HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Before You Go

19 Comfortable Shoes You'll Want To Pack On Your Next Trip

Popular in the community, from our partner, huffpost shopping’s best finds, more in shopping.

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The 12 Best Luxury Luggage Brands for International Travel, According to Pros

Don’t splurge on a suitcase until you’ve read this expert shopping advice.

"Sturdiness is the most important quality for long, international travel because a dense suitcase will ensure that it comes off the scanning belt without major damage," Marchant says. "Durability and a lifetime warranty are also important because you never know what can happen while traveling, who is handling your bag, or what kind of weather it has to wheel through. In the unpredictable realm of international travel, a sturdy and resilient suitcase is a traveler’s best friend."

Here, the best pieces of luggage for international travel, straight from the pros.

Paravel Weekender

Paravel is one of Schroeder’s go-to brands for personal luggage due to its quality craftsmanship, stylish aesthetic, and still-attainable price point. The Weekender is a favorite piece (Schroder calls it her “ Mary Poppins bag”), as it easily slides over the handle of any suitcase for streamlining speedy layovers.

Rimowa Original Cabin Carry-on Bag

"Large, heavy suitcases are popular because they offer more packing space, but they are cumbersome to bring around the airport and may result in additional fees when checking in," Marchant says. "I recommend travelers prioritize finding a balance between capacity and portability and ensure that their luggage is both functional and practical."

A favorite of Marchant’s (and many seasoned travel pros, for that matter), Rimowa’s aluminum suitcases are all about longevity, while boasting one of the most iconic luggage designs of the modern day. “The best quality luggage is Rimowa, without hesitation, because of its durability, capacity, design, and style,” she says. “The suitcases are an investment, but a guaranteed piece for life,” he says.

Globe Trotter Safari XL Trunk

This heritage British luggage brand was founded in 1897 and truly offers something for everyone, whether you’re a watch collector or particular enough to seek out fully customizable luggage (or both!). Globe Trotter boasts a host of unique collections, from the eternally chic safari line to collabs with luxury accessories brand Casablanca and James Bond.

The brand’s items are made from vulcanized fiberboard, which boasts being as strong as leather yet light as aluminum for seamless travel. Plus, old-school jet-setters will love Globe Trotter’s chic trunks that are suited for your next Grand Tour.

Carl Friedrik Palissy Weekend

If you’re looking for a bag that can go from office to plane to drinks and back again, look no further than Carl Friedrik's weekender bag. This heritage luggage brand focuses on premium materials, thoughtful design to improve functionality and reduce waste, and innovation that will have you hooked for life. The brand is also a go-to destination for travel accessories made from vegetable-tanned vachetta leather that will patina beautifully over the years.

AWAY The Bigger Carry-On

This Instagram-adored brand is also a personal favorite of Schroder’s, as the brand’s Bigger Carry On is her-go to when jet-setting for a variety of trips. This top-rated luggage retailer is beloved for cleverly designed products with unique features such as laundry bags, underside grab handles, lightweight yet durable shells, and array of color options for every type of aesthete.

“In my opinion, the products are well-made and available at a price point that balances both luxury and accessibility,” says Schroeder. “Most of my clients appreciate this, as they are looking for both functionality and a level of style in their luggage.”

Bric's Bellagio Pocket Spinner Trunk

The celeb-adored Italian luggage brand features a range of leather goods that appeal to a variety of styles, whether you prefer vintage-inspired designs, sleek lines, or punchy colorways. Bric’s is all about showcasing Italian craftsmanship and design innovation, from the Tuscan leather trim on the Firenze bags to the steamer trunk-inspired design of the Bellagio collection and seaside hues of the Positano collection.

Bric’s offers a five-year warranty on all wheeled products and a two-year warranty on other bags and accessories. Warning: You'll be scheming up your next trip to Italy as soon as your purchase arrives.

Hartmann Tweed Legend Medium Journey

Iconic luggage brand Hartmann first gained notoriety in 1908 with its namesake trunk winning first prize at the California exposition. It’s been serving discerning travelers ever since (think: James Bond in Ian Flemming’s novels, as well as IRL with Halston and Gloria Vanderbilt).

Schroeder is fan of both their carry-on and checked luggage options that feature American-made vegetable-tanned leather, signature tweed, and other high-performance materials to travel as far and wide as you do for decades to come. It’s a top pick for those who love soft luggage without having to sacrifice on durability or style.

Monos Check-In Large

Monos has quickly become a must-have brand for the jet-set needing Instagram-worthy luggage. But the brand is much more than a pretty face (though we do love the number of colorways offered): Monos luggage has received more than 10,000 five-star reviews and is centered around creating timeless modern heirlooms you'll treasure for years to come.

They back that up with lifetime warranties on all luggage, even if purchased from an authorized third-party retailer, along with two-year warranties for the Metro collection and packing cubes. Plus, adults and kids alike will love the stylish alphabet stickers for personalizing suitcases and more.

TUMI Extended Trip Expandable 4-Wheeled Packing Case

“My husband has all things TUMI, which is a brand we often recommend to our clients,” Schroder says.

The comprehensive travel brand is a great pick for enthusiasts of all kinds, as the brand’s portfolio ranges from suitcases in six different sizes, active backpacks, and even a host of golf accessories (the brand just became the official luggage of the PGA Tour and LPGA). This also makes TUMI an excellent option for those who are seeking a full matching set of travel goodies, as Marchant says he swears by matching family sets of luggage to help keep track of everyone’s belongings as best as possible.

The brand features a slew of valuable amenities, from the TUMI Tracer product recovery program to repair and personalization services, as well a five-year-luggage warranty (two for wallets and accessories). Plus, there are more than 300 TUMI stores around the world to test out their suite of products in person with ease.

Royce & Rocket

The youngest brand on our list, Royce & Rocket was created by two well-traveled friends in 2022 who were looking to make packing (and unpacking upon arrival) as smooth as possible, allowing people to make the most of their vacations. Their suitcases, offered in three sizes feature built-in shelving systems (in chic colors, might we add) to help you stay organized with ease, no matter how much city-hopping is on your itinerary. Don’t miss out on the brand’s catchall travel pouches for keeping your suitcase mess-free and your beauty routine a breeze while abroad.

Delsey TURENNE Medium Trunk Spinner

Since 1946, Delsey has been bridging the gap between luxury and accessibility in the luggage market. No matter what kind of traveler you are or style of luggage you prefer, the brand has something well-designed, eco-friendly, and innovative to offer. The brand created the first luggage on wheels, after all! Delsey features an authorized repair center to ensure proper upkeep for those who travel hard. The brand is available for purchase through many major retailers around the world, so it’s a great pick if you prefer to shop IRL.

BÉIS The Convertible Mini Weekender

Schroder loves BÉIS for its lightweight carryon options that can keep you organized, no matter the itinerary. This is a great brand to know for families looking for chic, kid-friendly travel gear, hard-working totes, and clever carry ons in a slew of appealing colors.

“I own the Weekender and the Backpack, and I use both on different trips, depending on the type,” she says. “For example, when traveling to Africa, the Backpack helps to keep me most organized. When traveling to Europe and I need something to hold what doesn’t fit in my carry on, the Weekender is my go-to!"

Meet the Experts

Emma Schroder is a luxury travel advisor and founder of Major Traveler .

Tom Marchant is the co-founder and owner of Black Tomato .

Why Trust VERANDA

For more than 35 years, VERANDA has been the authority on extraordinary design, outdoor living, art and craft, entertaining, travel, and culture. Every product we feature is expertly curated by our discerning editors and industry experts. Through market research, experience, and rigorous product testing, we only give our stamp of approval to the very best. (edited)

Lauren Wicks is a freelance writer and editor based in Birmingham, Alabama. Before going on her own, Lauren worked for brands such as VERANDA, EatingWell, and Cooking Light , and she covers all things lifestyle from interior design and luxury travel to wine and wellness.

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The Best Rolling Luggage To Get You Through The Airport Without Strain

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We’ve all been there: You’re packing all of your belongings into a handheld bag, but once you swing it over your shoulder, you quickly realize how bulky and uncomfortable it feels. The last thing you want when using your hard-earned PTO is to exhaust yourself by carrying around heavy belongings throughout your trip, so it’s important to secure luggage with smooth wheels to get you where you need to go in a quick and painless fashion. The best rolling luggage allows you to glide with ease while preventing any residual back or arm strain.

Not only does rolling luggage allow you to glide through the airport with ease, but it typically ... [+] holds more contents, and prevents back or arm strain.

Whether you’re in need of rolling luggage with easy access to your laptop (like one of our top picks, the July Carry On Pro , which features a front pocket that can fit a 15-inch laptop or tablet), or an expandable piece that allows you to pack extra clothing on long haul trips (like the Victorinox Spectra 3.0 , which allows up to 40% extra capacity), we’ve selected the best options in both carry-on and check-in sizes that will keep your mind (and back) pain-free. Below, the best rolling luggage that you can buy now.

• Best Rolling Luggage Overall: Samsonite Elevation Plus Large Spinner
• Best Hardside Rolling Luggage: Solgaard Check-In Closet Original
• Best Softside Rolling Luggage: Delsey Maubert 2.0 Large Checked Expandable Spinner
• Best Expandable Rolling Luggage: Victorinox Spectra 3.0 Expandable Medium Case
• Best Luxury Rolling Luggage: Briggs & Riley Torq Medium Spinner
• Best Value Rolling Luggage: Rollink Flex Vega Carry-On Suitcase
• Best Rolling Luggage Set: Level8 Luminous Textured 3 Piece Set
• Best Rolling Luggage With Pocket: July Carry On Pro
• Best Rolling Underseat Luggage: Carl Friedrick The Carry-on
• Best Rolling Duffel Bag: Calpak Stevyn Rolling Duffel

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The best travel pants for women, according to jetsetters on the go, best overall rolling luggage, spacious and long-lasting, samsonite elevation plus large spinner.

Dimensions:  29.5 x 19.5 x 13 inches |  Weight:  10.3 pounds | Material: Polypropylene | TSA-approved lock:  Yes |  Warranty:  Lifetime 10-year global warranty

No matter where you’re headed, this rolling suitcase will be an ideal companion thanks to its spacious interior, durable construction and smooth wheels. Its polypropylene exterior is known for its strength and resistance, while the spinner’s interior lining is made from recycled plastic bottles. Its interior has two large compartments for staying organized; one side has a zipper divider and dual zippered pockets that are perfect for accessories. It also has one large spill-safe pocket for liquids. The other compartment has a flap with two zippers for additional miscellaneous items and a garment compartment underneath. The integrated AirTag holder is a nice touch, too. Reviewers give this suitcase high marks, pointing out that the smooth wheels can keep up even when walking at a fast clip.

Best Hardside Rolling Luggage

Incredible organization for long haul trips, solgaard check-in closet original.

Dimensions:  28.3 x 17.3 x 14.5 inches |  Weight:  11 pounds | Material:  Polycarbonate Shell and Aluminum Frame | TSA-approved lock:  Yes |  Warranty:  Lifetime warranty

Solgaard’s check-in suitcase, unlike most others, has built-in shelving to help travelers stay organized while traveling. The luggage comes with five shelves that are removable, and compression straps. Opposite of the “closet” is a mesh pocket that is perfect for shoes or miscellaneous items. Another bonus? The interior lining is made from 100% recycled plastic. Each bag saves six pounds of plastic found in oceans.

Using the shelving system is simple. Open the suitcase 90 degrees while it’s upright, lift the shelf up and hang from the suitcase handle, pack each shelf to about 70%, lower the shelf into the suitcase, compress and close the suitcase. Although the luggage has a lifetime warranty, the waterproof and scratch-resistant exterior should pose minimal issues for travelers. Plus, the 360-degree wheels are made to withstand any type of flooring (we’re looking at you, cobblestone).

Best Softside Rolling Luggage

Lightweight, roomy and flexible.

Delsey Paris

Delsey Maubert 2.0 Large Checked Expandable Spinner

Dimensions:  31 x 20 x 13.25 inches |  Weight:  8.4 pounds | Material: 100% Polyester RPET 300 Denier | TSA-approved lock:  Yes |  Warranty:  Limited 3-Year Warranty

Softside rolling luggage remains a top choice for many travelers because it’s lightweight, roomy and flexible (meaning you can stuff it into most tight spots). This versatile piece features fabric made from recycled plastic bottles as well as vegan leather accents. The exterior has two pockets in the front and one on the side, which is perfect for storing a water bottle. It’s expandable, and the inner compartment has a zipper mesh pocket and straps to compress your items.

The TSA approved lock goes hand in hand with Delsey’s Securitech zippers, which are three times more secure than a standard zipper. Two handles, one on top, and one on the side allow for easy pick up from the baggage carousel. The one downside is that this model only comes in one color, but it could still be a perfect fit for the traveler looking to keep it simple.

Best Expandable Rolling Luggage

Boasts 40% extra capacity with plenty of pockets, victorinox spectra 3.0 expandable medium case.

Dimensions:  27.2 x 18.1 x 11.8 inches |  Weight:  13.7 pounds | Material: Sorplas™ recycled polycarbonate | TSA-approved lock:  Yes |  Warranty:  1-to-10-year warranty

This is your go-to piece for extra space: The Victorinox’s Spectra 3.0 Collection expands to 40% extra capacity (20% for carry-ons). It’s constructed from Sorplas, a high-performance recycled polycarbonate that has an antimicrobial lining, and travelers will appreciate that the checked sizes have an internal organizer and an internal divider flap with a zipper. The interior also features two large mesh pockets, elastic straps for packing and durable stability in the handle.

Victorinox has also added their Victorinox Stabilizing Technology to the suitcase to reduce handle movement and strain to the wrist. The water-resistant seal prevents moisture from entering the suitcase, allowing you to travel under any weather conditions. This model comes in two colorways and can be personalized with initials or a custom message.

Although this suitcase is on the pricier side, the first year of ownership is covered by the Victorinox Total Protection Program and includes manufacturing defects, normal wear and tear and airline handling damage. Repair expenses and shipping costs are also covered. The second to tenth year of ownership guarantees the Victorinox Quality Warranty Program which covers manufacturing defects and normal wear and tear. Repair expenses and shipping costs are also covered.

Best Luxury Rolling Luggage

Durable, well-made and easy to maneuver.

Briggs and Riley

Briggs & Riley Torq Medium Spinner

Dimensions:  27.5 x 18.5 x 11.5 inches |  Weight:  8.9 pounds | Material:  Makrolon polycarbonate | TSA-approved lock:  Yes |  Warranty:  Lifetime guarantee

Briggs & Riley’s Torq Medium Spinner embodies top tier quality and has a lifetime guarantee—so if your bag is damaged, Briggs & Riley will repair it, free of charge. This piece is the epitome of durability thanks to its multi-layer polycarbonate shell, and its scratch-resistant case helps keep your luggage looking new. It rolls with ease due to its 360-degree maneuverability and tilt-resistant base and has a generous amount of packing space. The interior has a built-in, crease-reducing mesh that keeps longer items looking their best, while the cinch-down garment panels keep wrinkles at bay. Smaller items can be packed in the mesh flap pocket and the camouflage interior lining helps distinguish your items easier. If you’re looking to give this as a gift, you can even personalize your bag with Briggs & Riley’s complimentary monogram service.

Best Value Rolling Luggage

Collapsible for easy storage, rollink flex vega carry-on suitcase.

Dimensions:  22 × 14 × 9 inches  | Weight:  5.1 pounds  | Material:  Polycarbonate | TSA-approved lock:  No |  Warranty:  3-year warranty

Rollink’s Flex Vega is one of the most practical suitcases on the market for those seeking a great roller at a competitive price. Its collapsible piece folds flat to be only two inches thick, allowing you to store it under the bed, or just about anywhere. The shell of the Flex Vega is scratch and water resistant, and its wheels are coated for a silent and smooth roll. The carry-on can hold about three to five days’ worth of clothes along with two to three pairs of shoes and also has side pockets for quick access to smaller items. The shell and interior lining are easy to clean by simply using a soft, wet cloth with warm water and mild dish soap. Priced at under $200, it’s the perfect piece for cruises, trains, or when traveling somewhere that your hotel room may be tiny. You can snag it in black, pink, grey, yellow, and three shades of blue.

Best Rolling Luggage Set

Unique and durable, level8 luminous textured 3-piece set.

Dimensions:  Carry-On: 29.9× 19.9 × 11.8 inches; Medium: 26 x 17.5 x 10.4 inches; Large: 21.5 x 14.5 x 9.2 inches  | Weight:  Carry-On: 12.8 pounds; Medium: 9.8 pounds; Large: 7.7 pounds  | Material: German-made Makrolon® polycarbonate | TSA-approved lock:  Yes |  Warranty:  Lifetime warranty 

Level8 luggage pieces are sure to stand out in a crowd, and are perfect for spotting on the baggage carousel. The brand’s intensely durable polycarbonate material with anti-scratch surface does not disappoint; travel with your set all over the world and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how much it can withstand, all while maintaining its appearance. The interior allows for easy organization and includes a mesh pocket divider, two zipper pockets for smaller items, two large compartments for clothing, and a compression strap (note: the smallest piece does not include the x-strap). The 360-degree wheels are ultra-quiet and ultra-durable, and the smallest suitcase can be stored easily within either of the larger ones, making storage a little more convenient. Level8 stands by its word and although the brand’s bags undergo rigorous quality tests, each piece still comes with a lifetime warranty that covers aspects such as shell, wheels, handles and zippers.

Best Rolling Luggage With Pocket

Easy laptop access, july carry on pro.

Dimensions:  21.65× 15 × 8.5 inches  | Weight:  8.6 pounds  | Material:  Polycarbonate | TSA-approved lock:  Yes |  Warranty:  Lifetime warranty on manufacturing faults

July’s Carry On Pro makes travel seamless. With its hard-shell front pocket for protection and easy access to your laptop and any other essentials, it’s perfect for travelers who opt for convenience. Its front pocket can fit up to a 15-inch laptop and an iPad Pro, and it comes with an ejectable power bank that has a USB and a fast-charging USB-C outlet to charge both a phone and a laptop at the same time. Both the suitcase and accompanying power bank are both TSA-approved for any flight in the world. Other features include an interior compression strap, stain resistant lining, and an odor-proof laundry bag. The real showstopper are the Carry On Pro’s SilentMove 360-degree spinner wheels, which were designed by July to be whisper quiet and withstand the toughest of surfaces. You can choose from a sand color, lavender, clay, navy, charcoal, and two different shades of green; the brand offers a lifetime warranty and a 100-day trial policy.

Best Rolling Underseat Luggage

Beautiful and small.

Carl Friedrick

Carl Friedrick The Carry-on

Dimensions:  21.6 × 14.5 × 9 inches  | Weight:  8.6 pounds  | Material:  Polycarbonate | TSA-approved lock:  Yes |  Warranty:  Lifetime warranty

Having launched in 2013 by two brothers, London-based Carl Friedrick sports beautiful pieces with the utmost quality and craftmanship. The brand’s Carry-on is made with premium vegetable tanned Vachetta leather handcrafted by a family-run tannery in Tuscany and has silent spinner wheels from Japan. The durable suitcase has an aluminum lock frame to ensure that your belongings are always secure, and the suitcase’s interior has two sets of straps for compressing clothing as well as a detachable compression pad. This piece comes in grey with cognac leather, grey with chocolate leather, or grey with black leather; you can choose between a smooth or dotted surface texture. The size is compliant with most US, European, and rest of the world cabin sizes, making it an easy bag to place under the seat in front of you. Carl Friedrick offers a 100-day trial program to test out if its right for you, so you can give it a spin before you commit.

Best Rolling Duffel Bag

Lightweight with multiple internal compartments, calpak stevyn rolling duffel.

Dimensions:  22 × 12 × 11 inches  | Weight:  5.75 pounds  | Material:  Polyester | TSA-approved lock:  No |  Warranty:  1-year limited Calpak warranty

The marriage of a duffel bag and a rolling suitcase results in Calpak’s Stevyn Rolling Duffel, which is perfect for clothing and softer items and can be used as a checked or carry-on. The duffel itself is quite roomy and even has a separate shoe compartment, a luggage sleeve to place on top of another suitcase and dual handles (soft handles and a hard extendible handle). Other benefits of this rolling duffel include its lightweight frame and ability to fit into smaller spaces. Also good to know: The warranty only covers manufacturing defects in material and workmanship, requires proof of purchase and is subject to a servicing fee, within one year of purchase date.

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The 10 Best Carry-On Luggage Pieces to Make Traveling a Breeze

Are you really still checking your bag?

Most Popular Carry-On Luggage

Samsonite winfield hardside luggage.

Most Durable Carry-On Luggage

Herschel heritage hardshell luggage.

Best Carry-On Duffel

Lululemon wunderlust weekender bag.

Most Professional Carry-On Luggage

Tumi international expandable carry-on.

Best affordable carry-on luggage

Amazon basics spinner suitcase.

Smoothest carry-on luggage

Carl friedrik the carry-on x.

Best All-Around Carry-On Luggage

Rimowa cabin s carry-on luggage.

Best Hardside Carry-On Luggage

Away the carry-on.

Best Expandable Carry-On Luggage

Victorinox swiss army werks 6.0 frequent flyer suitcase.

Best Luxury Carry-On Luggage Collaboration

Globe trotter aston martin f1 carry-on.

Luckily, you have a lot of options: softside, duffel, and hardside. But regardless of the exterior (it really comes down to personal preference in this regard), compact luggage with wheels and a sturdy handle is what you need to breeze through the airport. The most important thing to consider is the parameters: 22" x 14" x 9" is the standard size for carry-ons for most domestic flights. Anything over that, even by the smallest measure, may require you to check your bag —and trust us, some airlines are pickier than others, so you don't want to chance it.

So before you book your next flight, make sure to check out some of the best carry-on luggage pieces of 2024 below and get your belongings to your destination soundly and in style.

Whether you buy the three-piece set or the single carry-on, Samsonite's Winfield 2 collection is made to get you through the airport with no fuss. The spinner wheels allow you to move with ease, and the brand has made sure that every size fits the carry-on restrictions of the leading airlines. Plus, this piece of luggage comes with a ten-year warranty, so you can always trust that you're getting a top-notch travel bag.

You might already have a Herschel backpack or duffel bag, which is all the more reason to consider an impact-resistant carry-on suitcase. Made with recycled materials, this carry-on is performance-tested and can handle just about any journey you take it on. The silent rollers have that same sort of everyday, sporty feel as Herschel's other products but don't require a shoulder to hang on. Talk about a win-win-win.

If you're a duffel kind of guy, Lululemon makes one that's not just for the gym. There's a plethora of pockets, including one for your shoes, another for sweaty gear, and a third for a water bottle. With a padded pocket for your laptop, Lulu has done all of the work and thought of everything; all you have to do is not forget it at home.

Businesspeople have come to love Tumi, and you will, too. From the hard-to-beat selection of polycarbonate hardshells to the bevy of packing compartments to the integrated TSA lock, it's the perfect lightweight carry-on. Oh, and did we mention that it comes in six stylish colors? It's no wonder why the brand has effectively become the go-to for suit types who fly frequently.

Are you an overpacker? Well, this durable piece of rolling luggage from Amazon Basics is what you need. The exterior is made of a scratch-resistant hardshell and comes with four double spinner wheels that can maneuver with ease in any direction. The bag is also able to expand by up to 15 percent to allow for more space for all your shit.

If you're looking for a smooth roller, this Carl Friedrik option is for you. Made with a TSA-approved lock that keeps your belongings safe even when out of sight, this option is stylish, durable, and impeccably crafted. It also comes with a removable compression pad to minimize packing space and an integrated front pocket and is designed with a robust polycarbonate shell, so you'll never have to worry about bumps in the road—or air.

Rimowa is the ultimate fashion-person suitcase. And the signature Cabin S, which comes in silver aluminum, is a standout. Don't fret about the occasional dent or scrape—because the brand has a lifetime guarantee. The handmade leather handles are also engineered for maximum comfort and movability and won't fail you mid-trip. In fact, we love Rimowa so much that we did a whole story just about it.

Away's selection of luggage is built to make travel less stressful. The products are usually made of a polycarbonate hardshell and feature 360 degree spinner wheels, which will let you jet from one terminal to the next with ease. Designed by travelers for travelers, they have an easy-grip top handle and an additional underside grab handle and come in every conceivable color, which means that there is one for everybody.

Best believe that Victorinox, the maker of the iconic Swiss Army Knife, has carry-ons that also are efficient and multipurpose. The 6.0, for example, has organizational dividers, an enclosed apparel compartment, and compression abilities, and it's able to expand if you need the extra space. Plus it includes a USB port for on-the-go charging, a SIM card replacement tool, and even a pen—hey, take it from a writer, you never know when you'll need one.

Taking inspiration from the AMR23 car, the craftsmanship and innovation behind this bag feature deep intricacy. This unique collaboration is for the person who appreciates the finer things in life, in particular luxury cars and travel. Tougher than leather and lighter than aluminum, this guy is built to last. It's the ideal companion for one, two, or even three nights away.

Other Notable Mentions

We tested a lot of carry-on bags to bring you a comprehensive list of the ten best options, and while not every bag we tried made the cut, here are some honorary mentions.

Samsonite Classic Leather Weekender : We appreciated the sleek style of this luxurious weekender bag, but when it was packed to its max capacity, we noticed that it felt too heavy to lug throughout the airport. Beis the Carry-On Roller : Beis has made some of our other travel lists before, and this carry-on roller is extremely durable and smooth to wheel around. However, this specific option felt a little more compact than some of the other picks on this list. Halfday Travel the Garment Duffel : This is an incredible option if you're quickly traveling to a wedding or other formal event and need your attire to be wrinkle-free. It's lightweight, folds flat, and has plenty of storage space, but we noticed a lot of customers had problems with shipping—which is an issue if you're in a pinch. Paravel Aviator : We loved that the Aviator is a carbon-neutral option, but we preferred other styles that rolled a little more smoothly. Berlutti Formula 1005 Carry-On Suitcase : When it comes to style, this Berlutti option is unmatched—I mean, look at the aluminum and leather detailing. But when it came down to performance and function, we thought the high price tag wasn't totally justified.

Our Testing Process

Our team performed various tests on each carry-on bag throughout the course of a couple months to provide you with the best ten options. We packed each bag with enough clothes for a three-day trip—shirts, socks, pants, jackets, and shoes—and evaluated not only how easily everything fit but also how heavy each option was afterward and how hard it was to lift overhead.

Next, we tried maneuvering each bag over a wide variety of surfaces, such as pavement, carpet, hardwood floor, tile, and even laminate, to evaluate every bag's rolling ability and to see how easy it was to turn and navigate each option quickly. Finally, we wanted to test the durability and wear and tear of each bag, so we performed tests like pushing the options off of high surfaces, banging them against walls, and even trying to stuff them into small spaces. Throughout the testing process, a lot of the bags we considered were also evaluated during actual trips that our reviewers took so that the outcome could be as authentic as possible.

Tips for Buying

Lightweight construction: This could be one of the most important features when looking for a carry-on bag. Make sure you not only notice how lightweight the bag is before you buy it but also take into consideration how heavy it will be after it's jam-packed with all of your stuff. When flying, you want to make sure you can easily hoist the bag up into the overhead compartment—trust us, you don't want to be that guy —and want to make sure the weight is something that you'll be able to maneuver throughout an entire airport. Durable materials: It happens to all of us—there's going to be times when you accidentally run your suitcase against a barrier or have it fall over while you're waiting for your flight at the airport bar. This is why you want to choose a carry-on with materials like aluminum or nylon that are scratch- and stain-resistant. Bag size: As we mentioned before, many airlines have very specific size requirements for carry-on bags. In my experience, some airlines will definitely check if your carry-on meets these standards. You'll want to look for a bag that is 22" x 14" x 9" or under, or find a smaller option that comes with expandable features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a weight limit for carry-on luggage? Some airlines have a carry-on weight limit of about 35 pounds. Unlike the size of your bag, this is usually not strictly enforced as long as you can lift it. Can makeup and liquids go in my carry-on? All liquids, including makeup, lotion, and other cosmetics, must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces in carry-on luggage. You also want to make sure that all liquid beauty and personal products are put in a plastic bag before entering TSA. And always remember that if you want to bring a water bottle, just make sure that it's empty—your fellow travelers will thank you. How many days worth of clothes can I fit into a carry-on? While all options are different, you can typically get away with fitting five days' worth of clothes in your carry-on.

Why You Should Trust Us

We're not going to say something is great unless it's actually great. Every product in Esquire's roundups is carefully curated by our fashion and e-commerce teams.

When it comes to carry-on luggage, you can rest assured that we're hand-selecting styles that we've personally tested, tried, and loved, along with styles that the rest of our stylish colleagues here at Esquire endorse for their own wear. We've had to go through a lot of trial and error, and these carry-on bags are the ones that are simply the best.

Every pick on this list (and our other lists!) comes from years of wearing different things, seeing what we love and what we don't, and going from there. No two tastes are the same, and no two men are the same. Your proverbial mileage may vary. But if you're looking for the right place to start, with advice from folks who care (possibly too much!) about this sort of stuff, this is the place to be.

@media(max-width: 73.75rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.4375rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.5625rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}} Accessories

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Watch CBS News

The best carry-on luggage in 2024

By Leah Groth , Kaylyn McKenna

Updated on: May 1, 2024 / 1:04 PM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

Whether you travel for work or play, a great carry-on bag can be a game changer. We found the best and top-rated carry-on luggage you can buy in 2024 -- some of which are even on sale now.

Why invest in a new piece of carry-on luggage? For one, a carry-on bag may help save you money since many airlines now charge fees for checked bags. And unlike checked luggage , carry-on bags also stay with you for the whole trip. They're a good place to stow medicine, a change of clothing and other travel essentials. For shorter trips, carry-on luggage is a time-saver too -- no checked luggage means no wait at baggage claim and no lost luggage.

Some people prefer spinners over duffle bags, while others prefer hard-shell polycarbonate or aluminum suitcases to softer luggage made of fabric. More carry-on features include telescopic handles, TSA-compliant locks and padded areas for electronics. 

Keep reading to check out the CBS Essentials luggage experts' top picks for the best carry-on luggage in 2024.

The main thing to keep in mind when shopping for luggage? Size. While carry-on luggage may vary in dimensions and shape, make sure to select a bag that is no larger than 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches, including the handle and wheels. That's the standard carry-on size for most domestic airlines.

We selected 7 great carry-on bags that fit in the overhead bin or under your seat. All of our top picks are functional, aesthetically pleasing and complete with great features.

• Best polycarbonate carry-on : Monos Carry-On
• Best aluminum carry-on : Rimowa original Cabin carry-on

Best carry-on with a built-in charger: Away 'The Carry-On'

• Best carbon-neutral carry-on : Paravel Aviator carry-on
• Best soft-sided carry-on : Travelpro Platinum Elite
• Best budget carry-on : Samsonite Omni 
• Best compact 19-inch carry-on : Delsey Paris Chatelet

If you're looking for more options, check out our roundup of the best luggage of 2024 for all of your travel needs.

Best polycarbonate carry-on: Monos Carry-On 

The Monos Carry-On is available in a bunch of great colors and has features like an effortless, telescopic handle and lots of zippered pockets and compartments. It also has an easy-to-use lock. Monos boasts a 100-day trial period and lifetime warranty. 

Reviewers praise the suitcase for its ease of use. "This case rolls so smoothly over many surfaces. The wheels are placed perfectly to keep balance, no annoying tipping over when packed. The handle raises and lowers with little effort. Even when in the full extended position it feels sturdy, unlike some other cases I've tried."

Check out our Monos Carry-On review to see why CBS Essentials Staff Writer Kaylyn McKenna loves this carry-on.

Why we like the Monos Carry-On:

• Monos carry-ons are made with aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shells for enhanced durability.
• The carry-on fits in the overhead bin on most airlines.
• The 360-degree spinner wheels provide a smooth glide.
• It's available in 12 colors. 

Best aluminum carry-on: Rimowa original Cabin carry-on

Want to travel like James Bond? Then you'll need his luggage. The sleek aluminum Rimowa Cabin carry-on suitcase features include 360-degree multiwheel spinners, TSA-approved locks and a telescopic handle that easily glides up and down.

Aside from its quality materials and construction, one of the greatest benefits of buying a piece of Rimowa luggage is peace of mind. The brand includes a lifetime guarantee on all new suitcases, covering all functional aspects (but excluding wear and tear). Rimowa also offers in-store repairs and even in-hotel repairs at participating international locations.   

Why we like the Rimowa Original Cabin carry-on:

• Its aluminum construction protects your belongings much better than soft-sided or polycarbonate luggage.
• This suitcase comes with a lifetime warranty,
• Its sleek metallic material gives this carry-on a trendy, high-end look.
• Available in four colors.

The Carry-On from Away is a lightweight polycarbonate bag that features 360-degree spinner wheels, water-resistant garment bags and two interior compartments -- one designed for shoes and toiletries and the other for clothes. If you don't like it, return it within 100 days for a full refund.

CBS Essentials' own Fox Van Allen owns a piece of  Away luggage . "This single piece of luggage has been such a travel game changer," he says. "No matter how much I stuff into this carry-on, it always rolls around the airport as if it was light as a feather. It's almost magical how easy it is to move Away luggage."

Why we love Away 'The Carry-On":

• The compression panel helps you get more clothes into this suitcase when packing.
• It comes with a lifetime warranty.

Best carbon-neutral carry-on: Paravel Aviator carry-on

Carbon-neutral, sustainable luggage brand Paravel offers some stylish luggage options. The Paravel Aviator is geared with frictionless, carbon-steel-bearing wheels with 360-degree movement and a telescopic handle for walking (or running) through the airport. Each bag is made from recycled materials and comes with vegan leather-wrapped side handles and trim.

Paravel states that this carry-on holds two to four days' worth of clothes and one to two pairs of shoes, making it ideal for long weekend trips.

"This bag fits far more inside of it than the equivalent Delsey that I replaced with the Aviator Carry-On, and I love the compression panel and the quality of the zippers." shared one reviewer.

Why we like the Paravel Aviator:

• The carry-on is carbon neutral and made with recycled materials.
• Reviewers state that it is easy to maneuver.
• It features a scuff-hiding textured finish.

Best soft-sided carry-on: Travelpro Platinum Elite

Travelpro is a leading luggage brand loved by travelers and airline crews worldwide. The brand creates ultra-durable, lightweight luggage with its patented PrecisionGlide technology for seamless mobility. The Travelpro Platinum Elite carry-on, constructed from stain-resistant fabric with stylish leather accents, offers a great value. Features include an easy expansion zipper option that provides up to 2 inches of extra packing space, an internal tie-down system and a removable, TSA-compliant wet pocket for toiletries. 

"The bag materials are thick, the sewing is on-point with no stitching problems, and of course, the magnetic wheels spin effortlessly and track straight when rolling (huge benefit over other luggage without wheel tracking)," wrote one Amazon reviewer .

"This carry-on comes with a handle at the bottom of the bag which is an extremely underrated feature that allows you to lift this bag without just wrenching it by one handle only," says a second  verified buyer on Amazon .

Why we like the Travelpro Platinum Elite:

• Travelpro offers a lifetime warranty.
• The TSA-approved lock keeps your belongings secure.
• Reviewers praise the bag's durability.

Best budget carry-on: Samsonite Omni

A popular option on Amazon, the 20-inch polycarbonate Samsonite Omni carry-on offers a ton of value. Features include TSA-approved side-mounted locks, multidirectional spinner wheels, and an interior mesh divider with cross straps.

"I've had this suitcase for 5+ years and it still feels new. The suitcase is very durable and lightweight," says  one Amazon reviewer . "I've taken it all across the world and have had no problems. The zippers and wheels are very smooth. I highly recommend this suitcase to everyone."

The bag comes with a 10-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship.

Why we like the Samsonite Omni:

• This is one of the best-selling and well-reviewed suitcases on Amazon.
• It's a premium luggage option available for just over $100.
• The Samsonite Omni comes in a wide range of color options to fit your tastes.

Best compact 19-inch carry-on: Delsey Paris Chatelet

With faux leather accents and rounded edges, the Delsey Paris Chatelet, a lightweight polycarbonate carry-on, offers plenty of space for your belongings. Enjoy multidirectional double spinner wheels, an ergonomic handle, a USB port for charging electronics and a TSA-approved recessed lock. The suitcase also comes equipped with laundry and shoe bags, plus mesh-zippered pockets.

"I can't begin to tell you how wonderful this luggage is! It glides with such ease! It's well balanced, durable, and looks incredible," says one Amazon customer.

Reviewers have also praised the Delsey Paris Chatelet's sleek design and spacious interior. Several reviewers noted that the zippered pockets made it easy to keep all of their belongings secure and well-organized while traveling. It's on the smaller side at 19 inches, but it can hold a lot according to reviewers.

Why we like the Delsey Paris Chatelet:

• The carry-on's polycarbonate shell is lightweight and resistant to cracking.
• An odor-resistant lining helps keep the suitcase from absorbing smells when traveling home with dirty clothes.
• Reviewers praise the carry-on's smooth wheels and easy maneuverability. 

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The 13 Best Luggage Sets for Frequent Fliers

Pull up to the airport in style

In the game of fashionable travel, what really puts you in the lead is the quality of your bags. Aesthetics are merely the start of what makes a luggage set worthy of your investment. “When purchasing luggage, I look for high-quality, durable materials,” says Sara Banks, founder of SteamLine Luggage. Banks suggests opting for hard-sided luggage, as hard-shell exteriors are often built to last. “I would also avoid luggage made from cheap, thin materials, as you don’t want your luggage splitting open or breaking,” she adds.

If you have any upcoming vacations marked on your calendar, and you’re in need of a new luggage set, look no further. Ahead, shop the best luggage sets from compact carry-ons to capacious cases—all guaranteed to get noticed at the gate.

Our Favorite Luggage Sets for 2024

Best Spinner Luggage Set

Antler stamford 2.0 set in berry red.

Best Minimal Luggage Set

Kenneth cole 2-pc. bundle.

Best Retro Luggage Set

Steamline luggage the starlet check in spinner.

Best Luggage Set for Families

Samsonite voltage dlx 2 piece set.

Best Affordable Luggage Set

Amazon basics 3-piece set hardside spinner.

Best Standard Luggage Set

July classic family set.

Best Monogrammed Luggage Set

Mark & graham terminal 1 luggage set.

Best Hard-Sided Luggage Set

Away make it a set.

Best Soft-Sided Luggage Set

Delsey sky max 2.0.

Most Durable Luggage Set

Herschel supply co. softshell luggage.

Glide through airport terminals with Antler’s Stamford 2.0 collection, which features three spinner suitcases. The innovative wheels swivel in all directions, so navigating crowds of travelers to reach your destination won’t be a problem.

If you’re a minimalist traveler who packs lightly, Kenneth Cole’s polished two-piece bundle will fulfill all your needs. Carry your laptop, passport, and wallet in the padded tote bag, and store all of your larger items within the pockets and panels of the hard-shell suitcase.

The structured shape, ivory straps, and gold hardware on this SteamLine suitcase gives it a charming retro flair. This case is the largest out of the entire Starlet collection, which includes seven other pieces ranging in size and style.

This stunning blue set includes two bags: one large and one petite. It’s ideal for someone traveling with their child, as the smaller bag can be easily wheeled around while the bigger one gets checked.

What reviewers are saying: “This is a great set of luggage for my upcoming trip. The hard sides will keep everything inside protected as the luggage goes through airport conveyors. The handles and 360 degree wheels make it really easy to manage these pieces of luggage as I move through airports.”

For those of you who are in a hurry to purchase a luggage set, you can count on Amazon Basics to deliver the best. For under $200, this hardside spinner set includes three suitcases crafted with a scratch-resistant ABS exterior and a fully lined 150D-polyester interior.

What reviewers are saying: “These worked perfectly for a weekend trip to San Francisco. Spacious, durable, and affordable— you can’t beat that. The wheels are so smooth and you can rotate with such ease.”

Australian brand July makes a luggage trio that is sleek, sophisticated, and smart. Choose from 14 colors to pick a hue that feels like you.

What reviewers are saying: “This is such a lightweight and versatile bag. It glides so easily over every surface, especially carpet. You can fit so much into it and it’s an added bonus having the power bank. I love that you can have it at whatever height suits you, it takes the strain off your shoulders.”

Mark & Graham Terminal 1 Luggage Set

Leather straps give this crisp luggage set a vintage feel. The polycarbonate composition is lightweight and durable. The best part? You can get it monogrammed for a personal touch.

Away allows you to design your own set, so you can ensure you are picking out luggage tailored to your needs. The brand has taken over baggage claims everywhere with its attainable quality and surprisingly spacious designs. Each season, you can try limited-edition colors or stick with Away’s reliable neutrals.

What reviewers are saying: “My Away suitcase rolls over smooth and rough terrain without a problem, and no more ‘flipping over.’ Other reasons to love it include: color, easy to clean, the interior layout, ease of locking/use, it seems to fit in all overhead bins (even on smaller planes). Almost forgot, I also have the matching TECH case…LOVE!”

A three-piece set makes for an extremely practical purchase, given the long-lasting qualities of soft-sided luggage. Expandable capabilities allows for ample storage in all three bags.

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this for a quick work trip of a day or so. I love that it has so many pockets. This is a great buy and I truly recommend this to anyone looking for a carry-on suitcase for travel.”

Herschel’s soft luggage has the same durability that made its backpacks a staple. These roller bags have the capacity of a classic duffel, but the wheels and retractable handles allow for seamless travel. And if you prefer hardshell, well, you can find that from the brand's new Heritage Hardshell collection .

What reviewers are saying: “This bag was perfect for a weekend trip. I was able to pack everything I needed and still had room for additional items. It is well made and the hardware appears to be very durable. I look forward to using it for more weekend getaways. This is the fourth piece of Herschel luggage that I have purchased and I have not been disappointed yet.”

Paravel The Ultimate Set

This set has its name for a reason. It features four of Paravel’s bestsellers—a checked bag, a carry-on, a packing cube quad set, and a weekender—and an extra duffel that folds up neatly. As a bonus, all of Paravel’s products are composed of recycled materials.

What reviewers are saying: “Carry-on excellence. So excited to be fashionable and efficient!”

Roam Luggage Large Carry-On Expandable

A carry-on, a bigger carry-on, and a checked case cover all of the bases. Drawing from traditional African black-and-white block prints, the striking design is complemented by practical elements like water-repellent zippers, compression boards, and TSA-approved locks.

What reviewers are saying: “I just received my large carry-on expandable and must say, I'm impressed with the quality of the product. It's well made and obviously intended to provide years of service. I'm looking forward to taking a trip with it soon.”

Rimowa Essential Collection

This bag is the king of all hard-shell cases, plus Bloomingdale’s home fashion director Kelley Carter’s favorite select. Rimowa’s lightweight suitcases make a bold statement with their tough matte exteriors. The tech features are also impressive, including a height-adjustable divider inside the suitcase and smooth wheels for easy steering through TSA. A full Rimowa set is an investment, but with a lifetime warranty, it’s well worth it.

.css-p3fpzg{font-family:NewParisTextBook,NewParisTextBook-roboto,NewParisTextBook-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:-0.015rem;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-p3fpzg b,.css-p3fpzg strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-p3fpzg em,.css-p3fpzg i{font-style:normal;font-family:NewParisTextItalic,NewParisTextItalic-roboto,NewParisTextItalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;} Meet The Experts

• Sara Banks is the founder of SteamLine Luggage, a Dublin-based company that was created to bring elegance back to modern travel.
• Kelley Carter is the home fashion director at luxury department store Bloomingdale’s.

What is the most reliable checked luggage?

Always choose a brand you can trust for checked luggage. Carter is partial to Tumi’s soft-side luggage . Its “special weave and coating make it extremely durable. And because it is a soft-side, there is more packing capacity,” she explains. “If you’re like me and need lots of options, this gives you the freedom to pack all your looks and edit when you get to your destination.”

Why trust Harper’s Bazaar ?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.

Gaby Keiderling is a freelance writer, working on fashion, lifestyle, travel, and sports features.

The Edit: Fashion

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Best Checked Luggage To Travel The World With You

Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.

There’s nothing quite like getting your checked bag back, seeing it whirl around the belt to then notice that a wheel is missing or there’s a giant scratch. Checked bags go through a beating, despite slapping a few fragile stickers on it, so having some sturdy luggage is important, especially if you’re a frequent traveler. As a travel journalist, I’ve gone through a few checked bags in my day, and with the help of others’ suggestions and reviews, I’ve compiled a list of some of the best checked bags.

What to consider when choosing checked luggage

When you’re choosing luggage, bigger doesn’t always mean better. It’s important to think about what kind of trips you take, and that you’re going to be the one lugging this around. If you tend to hotel jump, use public transportation, or hop on buses, trains, etc., you might want something more manageable and not necessarily the biggest suitcase you can find. Choose a bag that gives you plenty of room, while still being manageable, comfortable to walk with, and easy to lift.

Flexibility and stretch

We’ve all been there when you buy one too many souvenirs. I traveled to a few of the European Christmas Markets during the holidays and came back with everything from bottles of wine and ornaments, to Christmas gifts for loved ones, so at times your bag will be a little overstuffed. Some flexibility, stretch, and expandable zippers are a really nice feature if your bag is a bit more full than expected and you don’t want to crush anything.

There’s a huge difference between four wheels and two wheels. The 360-degree, four-wheel bags are easier to navigate through the airport, in my opinion.

Organization

This isn’t necessarily the most important feature. You can always get toiletry bags , makeup bags , packing cubes, and your own separate organization, but you’ll want some built-in pockets to be able to separate important items.

Our picks for the best checked luggage

Best checked bag with locks: samsonite winfield.

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Teal, Carry-On 20-Inch

I use a Samsonite as a full-time travel journalist, and I know a lot of people who use a Samsonite in the industry. They have an incredible reputation for a reason. Although the Samsonite Winfield is what I essentially ended up choosing as the best checked bag for most travelers, the Samsonite brand is a great choice in general. The bag is backed by a 10-year limited warranty and the spinner wheels make it easy to navigate through the airport. This bag comes with TSA locks for added protection and pockets for storage and organization.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 9.5 x 14.5 x 23 inches
• Weight: 6.7 pounds
• Material: Polycarbonate
• Price on publish: $103.99 - $149.32

What we like:

• 10-year limited warranty

What we don't Like:

• Some reviews mention scratches show easily

The bottom line:

Any Samsonite bag, especially the Samsonite Winfield, is a reliable option for most travelers.

Get it here: Samsonite Winfield

Best budget checked luggage: Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage, Black, Checked-Large 28-Inch

For a budget choice that is under the $100 mark (though certain colors command higher prices), the Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner is a great option on the market. It has 360-degree wheels, pockets for storing essentials, a telescope handle, all protected by a hardside exterior. It even comes in 14 different colors.

• Dimensions: 17 x 12 x 28 inches
• Weight: 11 pounds
• Material: ABS
• Price on publish: $87.94 - $180 depending on color
• Comes in 14 colors
• Three-piece sets available 
• Expandable zipper
• Some reviews mentioned a plastic smell, saying that the bag needed to air out a bit

For a great piece of hardside luggage under $100, the Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner comes in 14 colors and is a solid option.

Get it here: Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner

Best durable checked luggage: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

For a durable option when it comes to checked luggage, the Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable bag is the way to go. It gives you durability, with a solid exterior made from micro polycarbonate that protects your items and is scratch-resistant. It also comes in nine colors.

• Dimensions: 9.5 x 15 x 22 inches
• Weight: 6.81 pounds
• Material: 100% polycarbonate construction
• Price on publish: $110.54 - $159.99 depending on color
• Comes in nine colors
• Some reviews mention that the wheels can be a little flimsy, so avoid overfilling the bag, making it too heavy on the wheels

For a durable option that comes in nine colors, go for the Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable bag.

Get it here: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

Best lightweight checked luggage: Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin

RIMOWA Essential Lite Cabin Carry-On Suitcase in Green Gloss - Polycarbonate - 21,7x15,8x9,1

For a lightweight checked luggage option, Rimowa has a wonderful selection of suitcases that won’t weigh you down, including the Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin that’s under 5 pounds. Pretty good for hard shell luggage! Although it has a bit of a hefty price tag, it’s built to last you a long time.

• Dimensions: 21.7 x 15.8 x 9.1 inches
• Weight: 4.9 pounds
• Material: Polycarbonate and poly jacquard
• Price on publish: $760
• Comes in three colors
• Rimowa’s lifetime guarantee

For a lightweight luggage option under five pounds, the Rimowa Cabin is a wise investment.

Get it here: Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin

Best checked hardside luggage: Monos Check-In Medium

Monos Check-In Medium

For the best checked hardside luggage, go with the Monos Check-In Medium. With checked luggage, you don’t want to go too big because it can be a hassle. The Monos Check-In has plenty of space, without being huge and annoying to lug around. There’s a telescopic handle and a TSA lock for extra privacy, in addition to a variety of colors, five of which are limited edition.

• Dimensions: 26.5 x 18.5 x 10.5 inches
• Weight: 9.59 pounds
• Material: Aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell
• Price on publish: $325 - $395 depending on color
• 13 colors, five of them limited edition
• Antimicrobial lining
• Handle has four height settings
• Limited lifetime warranty
• Some reviews mention it gets scuffed easily

For a reliable and stylish piece of hard side luggage, go with the Monos Check-In Medium.

Get it here: Monos Check-In Medium

Best checked softside luggage: SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage

SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage, Dark Grey, Checked-Medium 25-Inch

For the best softside luggage, the SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage is a great option. It has 360-degree spinner wheels, front pockets, and an expandable zipper to give you more room, if needed. There’s also great organization inside the bag, and secure spaces to keep things in place. It comes in seven colors and is made with a scuff-resistant fabric.

• Dimensions: 16.75 x 11 x 26.25 inches
• Weight: 9.5 pounds
• Material: Scuff-resistant polyester fabric
• Price on publish: $105.99 - $129.99 depending on color
• It comes in seven colors
• Great organization
• Reviews mention that some colors might easily show stains

If you’re looking for softside luggage that has plenty of space for your next big trip, go with the SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage.

Get it here: SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage

Best expandable checked luggage: Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside Expandable Luggage

Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside Expandable Luggage

For a spacious, expandable bag for the trips where you buy one too many souvenirs (we’ve all been there), it’s good to have an option to give your bag a little bit of extra legroom. Bringing it back to Samsonite, backed by a 10-year warranty, the Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside Expandable Luggage is an expandable option for when you just need a little bit more space than usual.

• Dimensions: 13 x 21 x 33 inches
• Weight: 10.5 pounds
• Material: Polyester
• Price on publish: $229.99 - $349.99 depending on color
• Five colors 
• 360-degree dual spinner wheels
• Some reviews mention that the handles could be stronger

For an expandable option, go with the Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside Expandable Luggage to give you a little more room when you need it on your next trip.

Get it here: Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside Expandable Luggage

Best value checked luggage: Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside Carry-On Luggage, 20-Inch Spinner with Four Spinner Wheels and Scratch-Resistant Surface, Black

Luggage can be pretty expensive at times, so the Amazon Basics section offers budget friendly bag options for a great value. This Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner has four double wheels and a telescopic handle to make it easy to pull your bag next to you through the airport. Priced at under $100, this is a great value.

• Dimensions: 14.76 x 9.45 x 21.46 inches
• Weight: 7.34 pounds
• Price on publish: $80.52
• Four colors
• Four double spinner wheels
• Some reviews say that the handle can be flimsy at times

If you’re looking for a great checked bag to get you through your next big trip, the Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner is a wonderful option at a great value.

Get it here: Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Best checked trunk luggage: LEVEL8 Trunk Luggage

LEVEL8 Trunk Luggage

For a lightweight piece of trunk luggage, this LEVEL8 made from polycarbonate is secure with a TSA lock and a ton of space. This trunk is sleek, with spinner wheels to help you get through the airport with ease. It even comes with a two-year warranty.

• Dimensions: 13.3 x 16.6 x 29.1 inches
• Weight: 11.44 pounds
• Material: 100% polycarbonate
• Price on publish: $299.99
• Two-year warranty 
• Telescopic handles with four levels
• Built-in TSA code lock

For a piece of trunk luggage that is stylish, sleek, and incredibly spacious, go with the LEVEL8 Trunk Luggage.

Get it here: LEVEL8 Trunk Luggage

Best checked duffle bag: The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel

There are quite a few good duffel bags on the market, but nothing really beats the North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel. This high-quality duffel can get you through anything from backpacking through Europe to a safari in Botswana. I personally have this one and it can fit so much more than you think, with cushioned shoulder straps to help you stay comfortable while you’re traveling.

• Dimensions: 22.7' x 13.8' x 8.7 inches
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Material: 300D recycled polyester tarpaulin with TPU laminate
• Price on publish: $125
• Eight colors
• Some reviews mentioned the buckles were iffy at times, but I personally didn’t have this issue

For a spacious duffel that can also be worn as a backpack, go with the North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel.

Get it here: The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel

Best checked luggage for organization: OGIO Terminal Travel Bag

OGIO Terminal Travel Bag

If you’re looking for a lot of organization, the OGIO Terminal Travel Bag is a solid choice. There are large pockets to hold your shoes, clothes, and larger items, with external pockets and dividers to keep smaller items organized and easy to reach. It comes in 10 colors, so you can choose your favorite!

• Dimensions: 29 x 16 x 13 inches
• Weight: 10.6 pounds
• Material: Interior neoprene lining, 420 D doby nylon
• Price on publish: $208.10 - $239.99
• Water-resistant neoprene lining
• Some reviews mention the zipper sticks at times

If you’re looking for a little extra organization in your next travel bag, the OGIO Terminal Travel Bag is a wonderful option.

Get it here: OGIO Terminal Travel Bag

What is the difference between hard-sided and soft-sided luggage?

When choosing between hard-sided and soft-sided luggage, it’s really a matter of preference. I tend to lean more towards hard-sided luggage, but I do have a few bags that are soft-sided. Soft-side bags are generally lighter, so you can subtract that from the weight and fill your bag with more items that you need. Personally, I feel like the hard shell bags protect my items from breaking a little better than the soft bags.

How we selected the best checked luggage

When it comes to selecting the bags, a number of things were taken into consideration. I’m a travel journalist and have gone through a number of checked bags and carry-ons, so I feel like I can provide a certain level of input on a professional level. In addition to my personal opinion, I looked at positively reviewed items on Amazon and scoured the internet for good products with positive ratings.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the best type of suitcase for traveling.

This is a matter of personal preference. I would say as a brand, Samsonite has a really great reputation for a reason. Even if you don’t get the exact bag suggested, the brand is reliable in the travel industry. You can read more in our guides on luggage brands and places to buy luggage .

Is soft or hard luggage better?

Also a matter of personal preference. If you tend to overpack, or generally like to bring back things like bottles of wine or collect fragile souvenirs like ornaments, hardside luggage might be best for you just to add another layer of protection, and to avoid stretching and overpacking. If you’re looking to fit the most items in your bag and have the bag be a lower weight to begin with, soft bags are a great option.

What to avoid when buying luggage?

I have to admit, I’m guilty of this. I love the color black, so I tend to get fun luggage tags and choose black bags that have a little bit of a feature. My current Samsonite hardshell bag has two brown stripes, so it’s easier to pick out with my luggage tags, but generally, it’s a good rule of thumb to avoid black luggage. If you can choose a color that sparks your interest, that’s always best because it’s easier to spot on the luggage belt.

What is the best size suitcase for international travel?

It depends on the type of trip. For an expedition trip where you need a lot of equipment, boots, maybe even coats, you might need a bigger bag to fit everything. If you’re going on an international trip to country hop, using trains, buses, cars, etc., a smaller, more manageable bag might be worth it. It really depends on the trip.

The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.

Advertisement

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

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

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

May be out of stock

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

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

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

The Best Laptop Backpacks

by Zoe Vanderweide

A great laptop backpack protects your tech, is comfortable to carry, and looks good, too. These five bags are our favorites for wrangling your workday gear.

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This airport hasn’t lost a single piece of luggage in its 30-year history.

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An airport in Japan is celebrating a big milestone: it’s never lost a piece of luggage in 30 years.

Japan’s Kansai International Airport (KIX) won the Skytrax award for World’s Best Airport for Baggage Delivery 2024 .

“We believe that the record of having no baggage lost since the opening of the airport is the result of the daily efforts and careful work of everyone involved, including airlines and handling companies,” the airport said in a press release .

Kansai airport, located in Osaka, first opened in 1994 and serves an estimated 20 million to 30 million passengers annually.

The award, which the airport has received eight times, is based on an evaluation of wait time before baggage pickup, efficiency of baggage delivery and response to lost baggage, according to the release.

The airport handled about 10 million baggage items in the 2023 fiscal year, reported the news organization Nikkei Asia .

“Multilayered checking work” is what makes their track record so successful, thanks to two or three staffers assessing the types and number of bags for each plane, as well as its passenger transit information.

“It’s important for multiple staff members to share information to prevent mistakes arising from erroneous assumptions,” Tsuyoshi Habuta, who supervises baggage operations at airport operator CKTS, told Nikkei Asia.

The outlet reported that the airport has a manual outlining the rules specific to each airline that is updated regularly to incorporate staff suggestions based on experience.

CKTS aims to get bags to baggage claim within 15 minutes after the aircraft’s arrival.

However, airport staff don’t believe they’re doing anything remarkable.

“We don’t feel like we have been doing something special,” Kenji Takanishi, a public relations officer for Kansai, told CNN . “We have been working as we normally do.

“We only do our work on a daily basis and we are recognized for it. We are certainly happy to receive the award. I think our staff, especially those working on the ground, feel more pleased.”

Kansai airport expects to see 37.3 million passengers during the 2025 fiscal year, thanks to the six-month-long global-innovations forum World Expo 2025, according to Nikkei Asia.

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Thank for your answer..

I have another question...

Sorry, I don't understand anything...

I wrote in spanish

Tengo que tomar el transiberiano en la estacion de Yaroslav, el tren parte a las 16.00 hs - Antes estare en Petersburgo. Me pregunto si tomando en Petersburgo un tren a las 12 .00 y llegando a Moscu a las 9 de la mañana estare bien con el tiempo-

La estacion Yaroslavsky (para Trans-Sib) y estacion Leningradsky (para Petersburgo) estan literalmente lado a lado.

Bolshoe cpacibo!!!!!!!

yes they can only be opened with a key in the states

Domodedovo airport has a few vendors available that will shrink wrap your bag. It looks very odd but I can see the value in it. It won't stop a determind theif, but it will stop casual theft or someone with a limited time window to get in to your luggage.

I personally use the zip/cable ties. I also never had a problem with any of my luggage going through SVO or DME and I bring a lot back and forth.

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• Nation & World

Moscow blast leads to tighter airport security

Authorities in Ukraine and the Czech Republic they were beefing up airport security measures in the wake of the suicide attack in Moscow.

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In most countries, however, authorities said current airport security measures were sufficient to deal with possible threats.

In Prague, police spokeswoman Barbora Kudlackova said more officers would be on duty at Prague’s Ruzyne airport, and they would be bolstered with sniffer dogs and sharpshooters.

In Ukraine, airport spokeswoman Oksana Ozhogova said additional Interior Ministry troops had been deployed at Kiev’s Boryspil Airport. Police with sniffing dogs also were randomly checking passengers and their luggage for possible explosives.

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Britain’s Department of Transport, responsible for Europe’s busiest airport, London’s Heathrow, and other key transport hubs, declined to comment on any possible new airport security measures, although such arrangements are kept under constant review.

Analysts say Monday’s attack at Moscow’s Domodedovo Airport may prompt a reevaluation of how to protect airport terminals but it was unlikely to result in tougher long-term security measures.

Security experts have warned is virtually impossible to screen the large crowds that gather at airports’ public areas – especially arrival terminals – because many airports have been turned into commercial centers, with shops, food courts, train stations and other facilities.

“Airport security needs to be thorough but it also needs to be rational, and the truth is that we can never make any airport totally impervious to attack,” said Patrick Smith, a commercial airline pilot and aviation author. “Like any crowded public space, be it a subway station or a shopping mall or a football stadium, an airport will always have inherent vulnerabilities.”

Monday’s attack at Domodedovo’s international arrivals area killed 35 people and wounded 180.

Since the Sept. 11 attacks in the United States, the main goal of airport security has been to keep bombs and bombers off of planes. Airports themselves were not considered a high priority target.

Most airports in the West don’t restrict access to the terminals, which are considered public areas. Security screening only takes place once the passengers enter the departure areas.

But in some countries, like Israel, Jordan or Pakistan, police set up roadblocks several miles (kilometers) from the airport to prescreen arriving passengers and others picking up passengers before allowing them to proceed.

Analysts said the Domodedovo attack appeared to be the first time terrorists have tried to exploit unrestricted public access to the terminals since the failed 2007 bombing of Glasgow Airport in Scotland. Attackers there tried to crash a Jeep loaded with explosives through the airport’s entrance doors but the bomb did not go off.

Philip Baum, editor of Aviation Security International, a London-based publication dedicated to security issues, said expanding an airport’s security perimeter as in Tel Aviv was desirable but would be difficult to replicate in Europe or the United States.

“So many of our airports now are commercial enterprises which have to maximize their earnings,” he said. “They have food courts, shopping centers, train stations all located together, and any effort to control access would have a major impact on the airport’s bottom line.”

Domodedovo Airport closed down temporarily after the blast but then reopened after only 20 minutes – an interval that would have been unheard-of in the West. Many air crews and passengers in its secure departure and arrival areas at the time were not even aware of the blast.

Pilots said this underscored the dilemma in securing such transport hubs – which by definition attract large numbers of people – while simultaneously keeping them accessible to the public.

AP Aviation Writer Slobodan Lekic reported from Brussels.