travellers bags have wheels

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Gear » Best Backpack With Wheels

14 BEST Backpacks With Wheels: (UPDATED 2024)

The more observant amongst you will probably have noticed that traditional backpacks, like submarines and hamburgers, usually don’t have wheels. But what if they did?! Well a backpacks with wheels would allow users to both carry their baggage on their backs or pull it effortlessly behind them – the best of both worlds!

Sometimes, it’s just not possible to use a wheeled suitcase, while at other times, nothing could be better than shrugging that pack off your shoulders and rolling it behind you. Yes, I have been there.

Well, having a rolling backpack with wheels is ALL about convenience in the ever-changing world of travel. And besides, these days we’re all about the hybrids aren’t we? Hybrid cars, hybrid electronics and hybrid backpacks!  Backpacks with wheels can be an absolute blessing. But which rolling backpack is best for your particular needs?

Well I will tell you. I tried and tested a bunch of them and so I could bring together my round-up of the top 12 backpacks with wheels, providing you with all the details you need to make the right choice!

Quick Answer: The Best Backpacks with Wheels

Pros and cons of wheeled backpacks, best wheeled luggage for digital nomads – this is not a backpack, best overall backpack with wheels, best backpack with wheels for adventurers, best wheeled backpacks for international travel, overall best backpack with wheels, best carry on wheeled backpack with wheels, best rolling backpack for hikers, best lightweight backpack with wheels, best suitcase with wheels for business travelers #1, best backpack with wheels for business travelers, best wheeled backpack for international travel (second pick), best wheeled duffel bag, best budget backpack with wheels, best budget roller backpack (alternate), carry-on case with a quality guarantee, what makes a great backpack with wheels how we tested them, faq about the best backpack with wheels, which is the backpack with wheels for you.

• Osprey Fairview Wheeled Travel Pack – Best Overall Backpack With Wheels
• Nomatic Carry on Pro – Best Wheeled Luggage For Digital Nomads
• Hynes Eagle Travel Wheeled Backpack – Best Backpack with Wheels for Adventurers
• Eagle Creek Tarmak XE4 – Best Carry On Backpack with Wheels
• Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet Backpack – Best Wheeled Backpack for Hikers 
• Osprey Farpoint 65 liter – Best Wheeled Backpack for International Travel
• Samsonite Rewind – Best Lightweight Backpack with Wheels
• Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack – Best Wheeled Backpack for Business Travelers

Osprey Fairview 36 Wheeled Travel Pack

• Price: > $300
• > Good for long-term travel
• > Versatile

Hynes Eagle Travel Wheeled Backpack

• Price: > $129
• > Perfect carry on size

Eagle Creek Tarmac XE4

• Price: > $359
• > 4Ibs 14oz
• > Expands to almost double its size

Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet Backpack

• Price: > $182
• > Dedicated laptop sleeve

Osprey Farpoint

• Price: > $320
• > 6.174 lbs (65L version)
• > Available in 80l size

Samsonite Rewind

• Price: > $183.63
• > Lightweight backpack on wheels
• > Integrated rain cover

Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack

• Price: > $130
• > Padded laptop compartment
• > Internal divisions to help keep your kit organized

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Wheeled backpacks are kind of a niche product and are not for everybody. There is definitely a dedicated and vibrant market for them but there will never become as ubiquitous as conventional backpacks.

Let’s look at the Pros and Cons of wheeled backpacks as a concept, before we get into the nitty gritty of competing the individual packs to one another.

• Versatile – functions as a backpack and a suitcase
• Can carry heavier loads
• Perfect for airports and city streets
• Not suitable for hiking
• Wheels are a point of failure

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

Nomatic Carry-On Pro

Want to skip the backpack concept altogether in favor of the best-wheeled luggage on the market? Meet the Nomatic Carry On Pro.

The Carry-On Pro is a fully-featured roller suitcase built with the modern traveler in mind. Minimalist and short-term travelers will appreciate all of the sexy organizational pockets and straps for clothing, including a dedicated electronics compartment dubbed the “tech case”. The tough-as-nails suitcase exterior also features a customizable locking system that will keep out any potential thieves.

This suitcase does require a steep investment, which is the only major drawback I can find. Also, if you are seriously set upon on a backpack suitcase combo then this is not for you.

For me, one of the real stand out elements for us was the organisational features on this bag. Being able to separate each side with zippable mesh allows you to keep items like clean and dirty clothes separate. It also has additional zippable pockets on the front too which came in super useful.

• Perfect carry on size – and lockable for extra security
• Can survive impacts from a sledgehammer – so yes, very durable
• Top of the line silent Hinomoto wheels
• Excellent organizational features
• Too small for multi-week holidays (unless you are a true minimalist).
• Need something bigger? Check out the full-sized  Nomatic Check-In Pro

Is the Nomatic Carry-On Pro for Me?

If you are looking for ONE suitcase that will last you a decade or more there is no better option than the Carry-On Pro on the market right now.

Nomatic has been a major player in the travel gear space for a few years now and we here at the Broke Backpacker are huge fans of the quality products and innovations they are putting out! We have being using these packs for years and have tested them out in all number of situations – in fact this pack performed so well for us in Barcelona that some swine was unable to resist the urge to steal it….

Want to learn more about this badass roller suitcase? Check out my full-length Nomatic Carry-On Pro review .

One of the main reasons you should invest in a backpack with wheels/backpack suitcase combo is for convenience. Well, this backpack takes convenience to a whole new level with the ability to attach a day pack to the front if needed. It’s perfect for backpackers looking to day the weight off their shoulders every now and then.

With this backpack suitcase with wheels, you will have a daypack, backpack, and rolling luggage all in one! The attachable “daypack” (sold separately) is a great design and when utilised is pretty much all you need for a backpacking trip.

A few more great features include a padded top and side handles, compression straps, and a handle that hides away nicely! Storage is pretty good too, there are multiple compartments including a very roomy and spacious main compartment that opens like a suitcase. Osprey makes a few of the best rolling backpacks on the market but this is the best pick.

• Great for long-term travel
• Ability to attach day pack
• Heavy! Over 8 Lbs.
• Not carry-on size

Is the Osprey Fairview 36 for me?

This one feels nice to the touch, the handle feels good to hold and the wheels roll nicely. It’s a delight pack and unpack and after using it for a few months, it was still in ‘good as new shape’. If you want a backpack with wheels that is convenient, comfortable and able to hold up in multiple situations, then you should invest in this backpack.

What I really like about this backpack, is the ability to attach my Osprey day pack; it’s one of the features that really make this bag a great hybrid for backpacker who wants the best backpack with wheels.

This 42 Liter rolling backpack is perfect for international travel, especially digital nomads with the detachable sleeve for a 17 inch laptop. We love how this sleeve can be attached in a number of positions depending on your needs.

Plus, it’s probably the coolest looking backpack with wheels – something I haven’t said since the fourth grade! A few of its awesome features include multiple compartments for all your clothes and other items, the top quick stash pocket, multiple grab handles, and treaded off-road wheels so you can roll this bag on challenging terrain!

I really love how this backpack meets carry on restrictions too. This backpack was designed and created for adventurers, so you know it’s going to last use and abuse for years.

• Perfect carry on size
• Weatherproof and extremely durable
• Tuck Away Wheels Cover
• Tons of pockets and compartments
• Little bit unsteady
• Small wheels

Is the Hynes Eagle Travel Wheeled Backpack for me?

We think this is the most durable backpack with wheels available. It can handle any and all-weather and terrain you throw at it, but it might be overkill if you aren’t going on adventures in South America and Africa!

Get this backpack if you want a sleek, beautiful rolling backpack to keep your things safe. If you’re just doing average urban travel, check out our next recommendation instead!

When our testers got their mitts on this bad boy they absolutely loved the rugged material the bag was made from. Being the adventurers we are we were also impressed by how durable the bag was when exposed to the elements and difficult outdoor terrain. If you’re looking for the ultimate hiking backpack with wheels, this is it.

Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled travel pack

One of the larger of the Osprey wheeled range, we’ve chosen the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled travel pack as one of our best-wheeled backpacks for international travel not only for its roominess but also its additional helpful travel-friendly features.

The high clearance level for the slimline wheels makes it possible to roll seamlessly over the majority of surfaces, while this backpack comes not only with comfortable shoulder straps but with a padded hip belt too!

Grab handles on the top and side make it easy for anyone – from baggage handlers to hotel porters – to lift, while compression straps help stabilize the load. If that’s not enough, a zippered top pocket is ideal for easy-access items.

• High wheel clearance
• 65-liter capacity
• Good-looking design
• Additional grab handles
• May require additional rain cover
• Not carry-on compatible
• Not for adventure travel

Is the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled travel pack for me?

When you’re heading off on an international trip, you’re likely to need a greater capacity backpack with wheels then you would on a day to day basis, such as that offered by the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled travel pack. Not just a larger-sized backpack with wheels, the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled also has some great additional features, such as the padded hip belt and zippered top pocket.

I took this to Goa and let me tell now, the streets are not exactly intended for carrying wheeled backpacks along making it a particularly hard test – but the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled held its own and showed no sign of damage after months of life.

In this case for me, the wheels were the area of the case I really wanted to put through its paces. I was impressed by how well they took a beating and how smooth they were over challenging surfaces. Of course, the ability to throw backpack luggage with wheels on your back when things get super rough is the main selling point and I can confirm the transition was just as comfortable as my traditional pack.

OIWAS Backpack

Not only is the OIWAS Backpack with Wheels a phenomenal backpack with wheels, but it is also carry-on compatible with plenty of major airlines.

What’s more, the backpack is just as suited on a weekend break as it is at the office, so it’s ideal for business trips or saving money by only having to buy one bag for both work and play. Being carry-on friendly means you can ditch the secondary daypack and bring it all in one.

Its gentle styling means the OIWAS Backpack is just as suitable for business travel as it is for a sightseeing trip, which makes this backpack with wheels extremely versatile! The super durable material means that it will last years of commuting all over the world!

• Wheeled backpack with lots of organisation
• Hidden handle zip
• Suitable for business and vacation travel
• Durable materials
• Weighs 10 lbs
• Carry-on size might be small for some
• A bit fiddly to transition from bag to roller

Is the OIWAS Backpack for me?

The OIWAS Backpack takes the crown as our overall best backpack with wheels because of its fantastic features and ultimate versatility. Not only is it a backpack for travel, but also a business bag too – so it works for casual or business travel.

If you’re looking for a good all-around backpack (and more) with wheels, you need to look no further than the OIWAS Backpack!

One of our team took this to the streets Lisbon recently and confirmed that this travel backpack with wheels was a lifesaver on all those steps! A stand-out feature was the separate top section of the pack that can be accessed without having to go into the main pack. It’s handy for things like your phone, wallet or passport.

When it comes to a backpack with wheels that meets the requirements of aircraft carry-ons, you can’t get much better than the Gear Warrior 34L.

For carry-on functionality, the 22-inch backpack comes with a very decent 34-liter capacity, but should you find your travels leave you needing more space, zipper expansion will give you an additional overall capacity! Designed to be durable and survive the rigors of air travel, the Load Warrior is constructed using tough ripstop nylon, with extra reinforcement in areas known to take the most wear and tear.

There are plenty of pockets to keep smaller items from getting lost, and even a divider to keep clean and dirty items separate inside.

• Carry-on compatible
• Expands to almost double its size
• Reinforced corners
• A good number of pockets in addition to the main compartment
• Not a rigid case
• Water repellent but not waterproof
• Single-strut handle
• No RFID-blocking technology

Is the Eagle Creek Load Warrior for me?

Built to survive the outdoors, the Eagle Creek Load Warrior is at home in boutique hotels or the first-class section of an aircraft.

Compatible with aircraft overhead compartments, and with reinforced corners to help it last as long as possible, the Load Warrior is sure to become your go-to carry-on!

Our team loved how roomy this carry on backpack with wheels felt without being too heavy. They remarked that the design actually allows for far more storage than many of the other heavier cases. This was aided by the expandable compartments that make the bag feel super versatile.

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

Coming from the makers of the Swiss Army Knife, you won’t be surprised by the durability and multi-functionality of the Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet backpack with wheels. It works for the modern hiker , who is just as likely to need a laptop as a pair of boots, the Sports Cadet has a dedicated padded sleeve for laptops with screens of up to 16 inches.

There’s a retractable wheel cover to prevent the spread of dust and dirt from the wheels when they’re not in use, and compression straps to keep all your kit in position, whether on the hiking trail or in the airport departure lounge.

Rounding things off is a good number of separate zippered pouches for smaller items. If you’re looking for a wheeled hiking backpack that still wouldn’t look out of place on a business trip, then this is the one!

• Dedicated laptop sleeve
• Retractable wheel cover
• Zippered pockets
• Only laptops up to 17” fit in a padded sleeve
• Smaller wheels may struggle on rough ground
• Just one size available
• Soft-shell design

Is the Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet backpack with wheels for me?

This durable and well-styled backpack with wheels by Victorinox is, to our mind, the best currently on offer for hikers.

A retractable wheel cover means you can hide away the slimline wheels when you know you’re not going to need them, while the padded laptop sleeve means you won’t ever have to worry about your tech – no matter how rough the trail becomes!

Our testers just loved the quality feel of this rolling hiking backpack and described it as Swiss ingenuity at its best! Well, we can’t argue with that because everything from the smoothness of the high-quality zippers to the durability of the wheels feels premium.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

The wheels and retractable handles that come part and parcel of a backpack with wheels means that these bags are invariably more cumbersome than their non-wheeled counterparts. That said, there are still some excellent lightweight backpacks with wheels out there to choose from, of which the Samsonite Rewind is perhaps the pick of the crop.

There’s an integrated rain cover to keep all your kit protected from the weather, a dedicated laptop compartment to keep your prized machine secure, and compression straps to hold everything in place whatever you find yourself doing.

Weighing just 2.1 kg when empty, this soft-shell bag is largely made up of tough polyester durable material and has a capacity of 30 liters.

The Samsonite brand is a popular choice and I feel that this suitcase backpack with wheels lived up to the brands high reputation. I loved just how light the pack felt even when fully loaded whilst still retaining that characteristic Samsonite sturdy and tough feel.

• Lightweight backpack on smooth wheels
• Integrated rain cover
• Dedicated laptop compartment
• Made from tough polyester
• Not as light as a backpack without wheels
• 5-liter capacity may be too small for some
• Laptop compartment fits machines no larger than 16”
• No hip belt

Is the Samsonite Rewind for me?

When the need for a lightweight backpack with wheels is your primary concern, it’s difficult to beat the 2 kg Samsonite Rewind. For that weight, you get a backpack with a capacity of 32.5 liters, a dedicated compartment laptop pocket for laptops up to 16”, and compression straps too!

Solgaard Carry On Closet 2.0

Ok, so this smooth wheeled suitcase is in fact not a backpack, BUT , it is such a neat product idea that I could not keep it off of this list.

Hailed as one of the most practical wheeled luggage designs of all time, the Carry on Closet 2.0 is the perfect unit for busy business travelers looking to add a bit of order to an already crazy schedule.

As the name suggests, the Carry on Closet features an expandable shelving system that makes packing, access to your stuff, and general organization much more streamlined.

There are a total of six different shelves to work with and compression straps to help secure all of the contents. The shelving system is also removable in case you are the kind of travleer who prefers packing everything into the main compartment instead.

The exterior design of the Carry on Closet is sleek, modern, and tough looking and has interesting security features including a built in lock and unbreakable polycarbonate shell.

Our testers were pleasantly surprised by this suitcase. Let’s be honest, sometimes these things can be a bit of a gimmick that in reality aren’t all that practical. But qudos to Solgaard because the closet design actually works wonders especially if you like to keep all your gear organised. The material also feels sturdy enough to withstand proper usage too.

• Unique shelving system is the undeniable highlight
• Can be integrated with Solgaard’s solar charging system ( Solar Bank  sold separately)
• Comes in two sizes based on carrying needs.
• Stylish and tough as nails.
• Heavy (9 lbs when empty).
• Not factually a wheeled backpack.
• Too small for extended trips
• The closet can decrease the amount of clothing you can actually pack.

Is the Solgaard Carry On Closet 2.0 for me?

If you find yourself hopping between cities for 2-3 days at a time and want a user friendly packing solution, the Solgaard Carry on Closet was pretty much designed exactly for people like you. There is a reason why Time Magazine called it the best travel invention of 2018. For international trips stretching out more than three days though, I’d consider bringing an additional business bag . Wheeled suitcases are never going to be super cool, but Solgaard has probably come the closest of any company to fitting that description.

Why is the Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack great for business travelers? First and foremost, its plain black design won’t stand out in an office or conference hall. But more than that, this backpack with wheels is incredibly functional for business travel.

For instance, it contains many internal compartments of different sizes, meaning there’s a space for everything – from your laptop and tablet computer (in padded sleeves) to A4-sized files, smartphone, and keys. With a sensibly-sized capacity of 40 liters and weight of just under 5.7lbs, there’s enough space for a night away from home.

Our testers particularly loved how smooth the handle was when popping the bag up and down. It means quick transitions from wearing the pack on your bag on a train to rolling it across the station. Experienced travelers know the stress of messing around with your bags on a crowded platform!

• Looks right for the business world
• Padded laptop compartment
• Internal divisions to help keep your kit organized
• Locking zippers
• 40-liter capacity may be a little small for some
• Not fully waterproof
• Not for outdoor adventures
• Fits laptops up to 16”

Is the Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack for me?

When you’re traveling for business, it’s just as important to look the part as it is to act the part, and using the Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack will certainly help. Its relatively plain, black appearance is the perfect start, while the internal compartments will keep you organized and efficient however long your days on the job.

Osprey Daylite 40 Liters

Is the Osprey Fairpoint Wheeled too big for you? Do you want a high-quality Osprey backpack with wheels to handle all of your travels?

Osprey’s Daylite 40L might just be your travelling chameleon! This backpack is great as a carry-on. I like the padded handles and internal compression straps to keep your things organized. The best part about this backpack is its weight. It weighs so little that it’s hard to believe it’s so durable. Wheels are also good quality!

Speaking of the wheels, they were a real stand out feature for me. They’re lightweight, smooth and durable. But if you do happen to wear them out, well a great feature is that they are easily replaceable which makes this bag one for the long haul.

• Carry On to most flights
• Lightweight yet durable
• Not as big as Sojourn

Is the Osprey Daylite 40 liter for me?

This is a good backpack that is compliant for many carry-on requirements. This backpack is for you if you want a backpack with a comfortable and high-quality backpack.

While the Sojourn is great, we like that you’re more likely to carry this sized bag on your back as it is one of the lightest backpacks on this list! That said, we’re still a fan of the Osprey Meridian a bit more if you can afford it! The Ozone beats the Meridian when it comes to price!

High Sierra XBT Wheeled Laptop Backpack

This is an affordable backpack that ticks off all the boxes. It is easy to maneuver with its smooth rolling corner-mounted wheels. It’s also lightweight, and features plenty of internal and external pockets for easy organisation.

We like that there are two main compartments and across them both is a compression strap to keep things tight. The front compartment is great for keeping things close to hand like your bus pass or city maps whilst everything behind it is super secure.

All in all, this bag will get the job done, and get you from point A to point B; however, it’s not the highest quality roller backpack on this list nor do any features set it apart from the rest of the bags. That said, its price is hard to beat!

Our testers loved this budget option and the fact that it still came with a padded laptop compartment, something our team takes very seriously! In fact, they said for such a well-priced bag their expensive equipment felt safe and secure.

• Quality is so-so but good for the price

Is the High Sierra XBT Wheeled Laptop Backpack for me?

This is a good, affordable backpack. While it’s not our top pick on this list, it will get the job done! We like that it’s wheeled luggage with multiple functions. It easily converts into a backpack.

Cwatcun Camera Backpack

Any semi-serious photographer will already know just how much kit it’s necessary to cart around when you count up the camera, lens, and other pieces of vital equipment a photographer needs.

Not only can the weight soon mount up, but much of this equipment is delicate, meaning you need a specific camera bag – such as the Cwatcun Camera Backpack. Open up the main compartment and you’ll find eleven adaptable compartments that you can personalize as you wish.

There is also a padded sleeve for laptops up to 15.6″ and straps on one side to take a full-sized tripod ! The backpack also has an expandable area so if you pick up a few souvenirs along the way you’ll be a-ok!

Let’s be honest, Cwatcun actually make some pretty good products for those of us on a budget and well, as Broke Backpackers, our team are always on the lookout for a bargain. They really loved how versatile this bag was for the price. Many of the crew aren’t avid photographers but still enjoyed the addition of the dividers which meant they could easily organise and separate whatever they put in the bag too.

• Dedicated camera bag
• Adaptable compartments
• Padded laptop sleeve
• Expandable section
• Exterior a little drab
• Wheels protrude slightly
• Can become heavy when fully loaded
• Side straps better for a lighter tripod

Is the Cwatcun Camera Backpack for me?

If you’re in the business of carting around expensive camera equipment, either as a seasoned amateur or a semi-professional, you’re going to need a good backpack dedicated to the job. With an adaptable interior and plenty of small extra pockets for lens wipes and memory cards, this backpack from Cwatcun certainly fulfills that brief!

Aerolite 21” Four-Wheel Backpack

Matching the Cabin Max on price is the Aerolite wheeled backpack, which is a model using a four-wheel design rather than the regular two-wheel version. Although it may be a little plain to look at for some, this 32L backpack is carry-on compatible with many of the major airlines you’ll be flying with and has shoulder straps that won’t get in the way as they can be placed behind a Velcro cover.

Made from truly durable 1680 Dernier polyester and nylon, this backpack is sure to last, while useful side pockets in addition to the spacious main compartment mean you won’t have any trouble taking everything you need while you’re away!

What our testers loved most about this pack in particular is how much it actually looks and feels like a “normal” backpack compared to some of the other square or bulkier bags. With added covers for the wheels, it very much felt like a backpack with added functionality when needed rather than carrying a suitcase on your back!

• Very well-priced
• Four-wheel design
• 32 liters may be too small for some travelers
• Plain design
• Wheels a little bulky

Is the Aerolite Four-Wheel backpack for me?

It’s fair to say that the great price may be the first thing to attract many would-be customers to the Aerolite Four-Wheel backpack! But looking beyond that, we think this is an excellent backpack with wheels, with a very reasonable capacity of 32 liters, durable construction, and compatibility with carry-on regulations for the major airlines.

Swiss Tech Navigation 21” Upright

What we love about the Swiss Tech Navigation 21″ Upright is primarily its high quality spec. It is made from sturdy, durable materials  and extremely is well put together. Its hard exterior makes it fully waterproof and able to survive a few falls. It also comes with an integrated TSA lock and a USB port  and utilises an  wheel design for maximum ease of movement.

Our testers loved the addition of the shoe holders, as folks who get out and about in nature whilst travelling, being able to keep our muddy shoes away from our “clean” clothes was a godsend! It’s actually made from pretty sturdy stuff too so it’s not going to rip easily.

• Durable and sturdy
• 12 year guarantee
• 40 liters may be too large for some travelers
• Not as cheap as some on here
• Heavier than some other models in its class

When it comes to testing and comparing wheeled backpacks there are a few areas that we looked at. The first one is how versatile a product it and specifically how well it performs both it’d wheels function, and its backpack function. For example, some of the products on this list are great for wheeling, but perform less well when worn and carried as a backpack.

Next up, we paid really close attention to the quality and build of the wheels as this a major stress area. Beyond that we looked at durability, comfort, awarded bonus points for innovative features and added a weighting for price and value.

Of course, trying out travel gear liked backpacks on wheels is not a perfect science and we were not able to blind test them under laboratory conditions. Rather, various members of our team tried them on various trips over different time periods. For example, I took the Osprey Sojourn to Goa in India which has no pavements, dusty roads laden with cow shit – as such it got a proper brutal test whereas other packs got an easy ride being carried through the gilded streets of Copenhagen. Still, we stand by our assessments.

Still have some questions about the best backpack suitcases with wheels? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the best wheeled backpack?

We think the best wheeled backpack for overall travel is the Osprey Fairview .

Are rolling backpacks better?

Rolling backpacks are ideal if you are carrying a very heavy load or if you have problems carrying a backpack.

How many wheels does a wheeled backpack have?

Wheeeld backpacks usually have 2 wheels although some have 4.

What are bags with wheels called?

Backpacks with wheels! There is no fancy or technical name.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

There’s no excuse for uncertainty now we’ve given you all the relevant details on the best backpacks with wheels you can purchase right now!

Any of our most recommended bags will be able to keep up with you on your adventures. Enjoy the versatility of these great rolling backpacks!

Rhenz Caguioa

Share or save this post

This has clearly not been updated in 2022. Almost none of these bags are currently sold. Further – the Nomadic bag that is recced here is not even a backpack.

Hi Valkyrie

Firstly, we are well aware that the Nomatic is not even a backpack which is why we wrote “this is not a backpack” in large letters in the relevant section.

Otherwise, we are aware that a number of these backpacks are currently unavailable owing to inventory issues but are optimistic that production and sales will resume in due course. If we come across any suitable alternative products in the meantime, we will of course update this post.

I agree that wheeled backpacks are a great type of travel bag. I’m loyal to the Osprey Brand and love their bags.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Camping Battery Operated Fans
• Camping Chairs for Heavy People
• Camping Inflatable Tents
• Camping Mattresses for Couples
• Camping Portable Griddles
• Camping Portable Tables for Grilling
• Camping Tips
• Best Hiking Boots
• Best Barefoot Hiking Boots
• Best Hiking Boots With Ankle Support
• Best Hiking Boots for Wide Feet
• Best Waterproof Hiking Boots
• Best Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis
• Best Backpacking & Hiking Cameras
• Best Hiking Camera Straps
• Best Hiking Hats for Women
• Best Hiking Insoles
• Best Hiking Knee Braces
• Best Hiking Microspikes
• Best Hiking Sandals
• Best Lightweight Hiking Boots
• Best Hiking Shoes for Flat Feet
• Best Hiking Water Bottles
• Best Hiking Water Shoes
• Best Hiking Winter Gloves
• Osprey Farpoint 40 Review
• Osprey Kestrel 38 Review
• Osprey Stratos 36 Review
• Hiking Tips
• Travel Accessories
• Philippines
• Southeast Asia
• Travel Tips
• Work with me

9 Best Backpacks With Wheels for Travel (2023 Results)

How often have you traveled on uneven ground with wheeled luggage and wished you had a backpack? And how many times have you wished you had a rolling suitcase while carrying a backpack?

Well, now you can have both.

Our team and I tested 23 different backpacks with wheels for several months on different trips to make your life easier. Out of 23, we picked 9 items we believe did pretty well during testing.

Today, I will be sharing my detailed guide to the best-wheeled backpacks, to help you find the best travel backpack with wheels that is right for you and your trips.

Best Backpacks with Wheels

There is a wide variety of backpacks with wheels that you could find online nowadays. So today, I will be sharing my guide, to help you find the best travel backpack with wheels that is right for you and your trips.

Targus TSB700EU Rolling Laptop Backpack

For short one or two day business trips, I had been looking for a compact travel bag with wheels that could double up as a backpack. The Targus rolling laptop bag perfectly fits the bill. This backpack is not only suitable for use as a trolley but can also be comfortably worn on the shoulders.

One of my favorite features is the long and smooth telescopic handle, which is essential for me as I often have to pull it out multiple times a day. The handle feels safe and secure to hold, adding to the overall convenience.

It’s impressively lightweight, making it a breeze to carry. Its height is also ideal for lifting, whether it’s loading it into the car or maneuvering up a staircase. I appreciate the smooth running zippers and the abundance of practical compartments, which have made organizing my belongings effortless.

The bag maintains a great balance, never falling when stationary, thanks to its well-thought-out construction. The drag system is exceptionally comfortable, allowing me to effortlessly move the bag even when it’s loaded with heavy items. I was pleasantly surprised by the material used, as it strikes the perfect balance between durability and softness.

It’s a very versatile bag, and because of the many external and internal compartments including the large front compartment for books and folders, nothing gets left behind.

This is one of the best-wheeled backpacks around, for sure, and a perfect gift for males or females.

Pros of Targus Compact Wheeled Backpack  

• Lots of internal compartments for easier organization
• Made of durable material yet very lightweight for the category
• It has elastic straps for clothing and a padded laptop pocket (made for a 15.6”)
• Soft-lined stash pocket and full workstation
• Comfortable to carry and silent when running
• Cover over wheels & shoulder straps in backpack mode

Cons of Targus Compact Wheeled Backpack  

• Smaller than other options: capacity for only 27L
• Zippers and handles can be a little flimsy

CHECK PRODUCT REVIEWS »

YH&GS Rolling Backpack

With a weight of 3.3 KG (7.28 lb), and a capacity of 50L, it features more than enough storage for your electronics. Also, the rain cover is made of a waterproof coating of 1680D polyester, which protects your back from being dirty.

YH&GS Wheeled Backpack is specifically designed to carry a lot of electronics and I personally used it as a bag when traveling in Europe and shooting events.

I personally have a comfortable wheeled backpack where I keep all my electronics, and there are many and another bag for clothing.

As someone who has used the product extensively, I can attest to the versatility and functionality of the designated padded laptop compartment with a Velcro sleeve.

I was able to securely store a variety of items, including my 17-inch laptop, tablet, phone, camera and lens, reusable water bottle, portable printer, cables, pens, sunglasses, passport, and even clothing.

You can choose from:

• maximum laptop size of 20″ – 21.6″ x 14.1″ x 10.2″ (55*36*26cm)
• maximum laptop size of 18″ – 13.39″ x 9.12″ x 18.50″ (34*23*47cm)

Pros of YH&GS Rolling Backpack

• Relatively large internal space and a big capacity of 50L
• The wheel has grooves for easy stair climbing, or traveling over rough terrain which prevents the wheel from slipping.
• Approved for carry-on flying by TSA.
• Side water bottle pocket

Cons of YH&GS Rolling Backpack

• It has backpack padded straps for ultimate carry comfort but doesn’t provide the most stable support when using them in backpack mode.

With so many features, good storage, and compartmentalization, YH&GS Wheeled Backpack is probably the best-wheeled backpack for travel with electronics.

Find out what is the difference between check-in bags and carry-on bags .

Jansport Driver 8 Rolling Backpack

With books getting heavier and heavier, it’s gotten harder and harder for students to lug them around. For years it’s become common for students to carry their backpacks from class to class, but sometimes they are still too heavy.

Jansport has long been very popular among students and the Jansport Driver 8 will take that weight off their backs. It is considered one of the best backpacks with wheels for students. This is why it makes this list of the best-wheeled backpacks.

The Jansport Driver 8 has an impressive design and durability like other Jansport products. Especially the in-line wheels, which are great to navigate through crowded halls.

What sets it apart from other travel packs with rolling wheels is the colors that it is available in.

Most wheeled backpacks for traveling only come in a few colors, black, maybe brown, or dark blue. The Jansport Driver 8 has eight different colors and designs .

The Jansport Driver 8 isn’t just for school though. It is tough enough to use as a travel pack and is small enough to fit on most flights as a carry-on.

It also has a nice laptop sleeve that can fit up to a fifteen-inch laptop.

Pros of Jansport Driver 8

• Jansport’s lifetime warranty, which will see the wheeled backpack fixed or replaced. From personal experience, Jansport is more likely to replace it than repair it, often with its newest model. You can also make multiple claims on the same purchase.
• This pack is small enough to be used as a carry-on or a backpack, making it easy to navigate both crowded halls and airports.

Cons of Jansport Driver 8

• The wheels can be noisy, especially when going over slightly uneven terrain. The nice thing is that it can easily change the wheels out with just a Phillips head screwdriver. While this allows for quieter travel, it is a small extra cost to get quieter wheels.
• There is no middle position for the telescoping handle, it is either closed or fully extended. I know I often use the middle position when navigating tight public venues as it keeps my bag a little closer to me.

Matein Waterproof College Wheeled Travel Backpack  

When you’re off to tropical or 4-seasoned countries, having your clothes and gadgets soaked up is the last thing you need, especially after long-hour flights.

This is especially true when you have to roll it on wheels and have puddled grounds splash all over your bag’s fabric. It’s a pass for me. Until I finally found a great solution to this.

The Matein Waterproof College Wheeled Travel Backpack is an absolute game-changer made from waterproof fabric and a bottom panel to keep your belongings safe and dry, as they should be.  This has to be the best waterproof backpack with wheels.

This is one of the best rolling backpacks I have seen because it has multiple compartments to store your electronics and clothes separately to ease your way through security checks.

Its dimensions stand at 33 by 23 by 50 cm at only 2.17 kilograms in weight. It also stores up to 45L in storage.

During our trial of this product, I was particularly impressed with the lockable metal swivel hooks that can be adjusted to keep the straps protected when rolling the bag on wheels.

This feature adds an extra layer of convenience and security to the bag, making it a standout choice for frequent travelers.

I could also lock the zippered pockets up easily to combat sneaky thieves lying around in the airport.

Pros of Matein Waterproof College Wheeled Travel Backpack

• Has a 45-liter storage space in its spacious main compartment to hold most of your belongings.
• Has organizer compartments to help quickly find things.
• Has an adjustable 22-inch hideaway telescoping handle
• Made of durable materials such as polyester fabric, sturdy metal hooks, and aluminum throughout the bag’s overall design.

Cons of Matein Waterproof College Wheeled Travel Backpack

• Doesn’t have a lot of padding for laptops.
• May need to clean the wheels when you turn it to carry mode as they do touch your back.
• With the aluminum handle, it may not be suited to put in the washer for cleaning purposes.

SKYMOVE 18 inches Wheeled Backpack

When traveling around with a heap of stuff on my back, the last thing I need is a heavy backpack that will do me no good, especially when I’m up against a long-hour flight ahead of me.

Imagine having to get to the airport, getting through the extensive airport security checks and scans, and walking to reach your boarding gate with a heavy bag on your shoulders. A big no-no if you ask me.

Having a wheeled backpack that you can carry, roll on wheels, and is lightweight, is the ideal go-to option as a traveling companion.

The Skymove 18″ Wheeled Backpack is a lightweight backpack with wheels essential for any fellow traveler out there!

After conducting extensive tests, we concluded that the backpack has a 35L capacity, measures 18 x 12 x 8 inches, and weighs just 5.5lbs.

This makes it at least 10% lighter than most wheeled backpacks on the market, making it our top pick for the best lightweight backpack.

Its sleek yet classic design with 1200D washing printing oxford fabric keeps it ahead of the style game.

I like how convenient the overall design is, as you can easily hide away and protect the straps from dirt with a simple zip when you go on wheels mode.

Its smooth aluminum rod can be used in wet seasons as it is strong and durable against rusting.

A great touch was the cotton handle top; this small detail proved to be a lifesaver that kept my belongings dry and safe from occasional water drips.

Pros of Skymove 18 inches Wheeled Backpack

• Compact 18 inches in size helps stow a handful of belongings
• Lightweight in nature
• A timeless design that makes the perfect travel backpack on wheels.
• Ideal for short day trips.

Cons of Skymove 18 inches Wheeled Backpack

• Does not come with an organizer  
• Belt clasps are a little tricky to open  
• It can only fit small laptops.

Yorepek Large Roller Backpack 17 Inch

Probably not the best rolling wheeled backpack for business trips but it’s definitely making this list.

Based on our findings, while the backpack may appear small on the outside, it actually offers a surprising number of compartments when opened.

The spacious main compartment is particularly noteworthy, as it can easily accommodate larger items like clothing or books.

Then there’s a laptop pocket which is a must for every person whether a student or a business person. It also has a front organizing compartment to carry all the small accessories you have.

A quick-access pocket at the front makes sure you have your important documents like a ticket, a notebook, etc., always at a hands distance. The most interesting part about this bag is the external USB port which lets you charge your electronic devices.

Specifications 

• Padded Shoulder straps
• Includes dedicated laptop compartment
• Detachable rollers
• USB charging port
• Made of water-resistant fabric
• Great for international trips

Pros of Yorepek Roller Backpack

• It is comfortable to carry 
• The bag is inexpensive. 
• It can carry laptops of a maximum size, of 17 inches 

Cons of Yorepek Roller Backpack

• Because of its small capacity, it can only be used for short trips.

Everki Atlas Wheeled Laptop Backpack

Most of my traveling is done to visit faraway places and experience fresh adventures. There are times, however, when I need to travel for business.

The Everki Atlas Wheeled Laptop Backpack is designed to give you the benefits of other Wheeled luggage while also being the perfect tool for the traveling professional.

They designed the Everki Atlas for organization, with space for a tablet and a laptop.

In my experience with the product, the Everki Atlas boasts a laptop sleeve with a one-of-a-kind design that allows it to be adjusted to fit laptops ranging from 13” to 17.3”. This feature ensures that your laptop stays secure and snug during your travels.

Everki Atlas also boasts a sleeve that blocks RFID waves in case you are traveling with any sensitive materials.

Pros of Everki Atlas

• The adjustable padded laptop sleeve can also be removed, making more room for other items to be packed
• Well-padded and extra wide shoulder straps
• The sleek design and ability to hide the shoulder straps mean you can wheel it right into your meeting, looking professional and prepared.

Cons of Everki Atlas

• The Wheels are a little small, making it a struggle on uneven ground
• The zippers are also a little small, so when the bag is full it can be hard to get a good grip on them to zip them shut.

High Sierra Freewheel Wheeled Laptop Backpack

As the name suggests, the High Sierra Freewheel backpack is great for storing laptops. In fact, the maximum size laptop that this wheeled backpack can store is up to 15-inches, which is pretty decent for everything else it offers.

Also, this backpack is incredibly weather resistant. Regardless of where you’re traveling to, whether you’re carrying electronic devices or any items that you otherwise don’t want to get damaged by the elements, everything inside the bag remains untouched.

Anytime I wear a backpack with wheels and a handle, I’m always going to be curious about how it feels around my shoulders and back. This product feels exactly like a good old-fashioned backpack.

The first thing I noticed about this is that the air mesh padding in the compression straps allows you to easily and comfortably throw it over your shoulders.

The High Sierra wheeled backpack is an affordable traveling tool that holds up really well in just about any part of the world.

Regardless of whether you’re rolling the wheels over uneven terrain or carrying the pack over your back with the shoulder straps, this bag is sure to make traveling a lot easier for you.

Pros of High Sierra

• The Organizer compartment comes with a zippered mesh, pen, and media pockets, allowing you to keep smaller objects safe without things constantly moving around.
• The smooth rolling corner mounted wheels make traveling across difficult surfaces and curbs effortless.
• Versatile & affordable
• The zippered pockets inside keep things organized.

Cons of High Sierra

• There is a lack of storage space for multimedia devices of a size larger than 15-inches.
• Not ideal for heavy-duty traveling

AOKING 20/22″ Backpack

The very first thing I noticed about the AOKING water-resistant backpack is that it comes at a whopping size of 20-22 inches. That’s a lot of storage space, which makes it handy for all sorts of items, including books, files, laptops, and much more.

Also, this backpack is designed with tear-resistant polyester fabric, making it highly durable against sharp objects and general wear and tear.

Something that I really like about this durable backpack is that its padded compartments are designed with shockproof pads.

This means that even if your bag is getting knocked around in transit or is being wheeled across rough surfaces, your delicate objects will be safe at all times.

At its maximum, these shockproof pads account for up to 17 inches worth of laptop space, making it decently spacious.

Finally, this durable backpack proves to be quite easy to pull due to its aluminum alloy telescope handle, which extends and retracts seamlessly.

This wheeled backpack is also made with a 360-degree rubber wheel style, making it easy to pivot around corners and roll around without making a lot of unnecessary noise. These features make it one of the best travel backpacks with wheels.

Pros of AOKING

• Despite being a lightweight style bag, the AOKING backpack is made with durability in mind, so it’s not uncommon to get years worth of utility out of a bag like this with casual traveling.
• A 20-22 inch size makes storage hassle free, allowing you to fit items of all types inside without compacting or squeezing anything else.
• The 360-degree smooth wheels provide great mobility, especially in crowded spaces where you need to make tighter movements with your luggage.
• Cons of AOKING
• The rubber wheels are very small, which makes curbs and other raised or uneven surfaces a bit difficult to travel across.
• Small wheel size and uneven weight distribution may sometimes cause the bag to tip over on itself when being rolled.

Now you may have noticed that I didn’t have a “Best overall” choice for wheeled backpacks . The primary reason for this is that your needs are likely different from my needs.

This article’s primary goal is to introduce you to a tool you can use when traveling. The secondary goal is to show you some of the best options out there and what they can be used for.

Trust me when I tell you that using a wheeled backpack will change the way you travel. Whether it’s a long international trip, traveling for business, or going to visit family.

There really is a wheeled travel pack for everyone. Man, Woman, Professional, or Student, you can find the perfect pack for you.

I hope that my list could identify the perfect pack for you and that the next time you are traveling you’re able to take that weight off and get to your next adventure safely.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Backpack with Wheels

You will want to make sure that you can easily fit everything you need into the backpack without overstuffing it, including your laptop and other electronics.

You should choose an option that is large enough for what you anticipate carrying with you.

However, you also want to consider how easily the bag would fit in places like an overhead compartment or under the airplane seat, on a bus, in a locker, etc.

Once you add your items to a backpack, their weight will increase significantly. Rolling the pack prevents you from straining your back by carrying it around. However, you do want to consider the weight of the empty pack and how heavy it will be when it is full.

This way you can easily lift it and put it into overhead compartments and vehicle trunks or carry it briefly if the terrain doesn’t allow it to roll.

Durability & Materials

A good wheeled backpack is an investment, so look for one that has positive reviews about durability.

You want to purchase one with durable wheels that will not get stuck and a pull-out handle that easily slides up and down and will not break. As far as material, consider a waterproof backpack and one that can be cleaned easily.

Certain features add to the comfort and functionality of your backpack. If you are taller, you want to make sure that you choose one that has long handles, so you don’t have to bend over. Some backpacks even have adjustable handle options.

If you’re using your backpack as a carry-on when traveling, lockable zippers are necessary to secure your belongings. A built-in USB port could also be a handy bonus for business travel and a padded hip belt is a nice feature to keep the backpack from moving while you walk.

Finally, wheeled backpacks with external compression straps and or internal compression straps really help keep your items in place and organized while the bag is moving.

Compartments

Your wheeled backpack should, at a minimum, have a padded laptop compartment that fits your laptop and protects it against damage.

You may also want multiple compartments, such as a smaller section to hold pens and pencils or a water bottle pouch.

You may even find a use for a padded compartment that holds wired headphones and allows them to be easily accessible without opening the backpack.

Like other bags, wheeled backpacks come in a variety of prices, from moderate to extremely high. You want to choose the best option within your price range and there are many good selections to fit everyone’s needs and budget.

Reading reviews before purchase should give you a good idea of the quality you are getting for the price.

Look for padded shoulder straps on the backpack, as they will help prevent back pain if you need to carry your pack instead of rolling it.

In addition, choose a handle length that works for your height. If you are on the taller end, you do not want to bend over to roll your backpack as that could cause back and leg strain.

Some styles look more like luggage and others like traditional backpacks. Think about when you will use the backpack most and choose the one that best fits your needs and lifestyle.

A traditional-looking or more rugged style would be appropriate for school use or adventure traveling.

If you are primarily traveling for business, you may instead opt for a sleeker option that more closely resembles luggage or a briefcase.

Accessibility

The primary thing to consider is that your backpack has enough room so you can easily access things you’ll need along the way without unpacking the items you don’t need. Make sure the laptop pocket is easily accessible on its own.

The same holds true for the compartments where you put your phone, water bottle, or passport.

Maneuverability

Look at reviews to ensure that the ratings on maneuverability are high. Nothing is more frustrating than trying to pull a backpack while the wheels are getting stuck or navigating an airport with one that doesn’t turn corners very well.

Since the goal is to make your life easier, make sure your backpack consistently gets high marks in this area.

Warranty & Return Policy

A high quality backpack from a reputable company should have a good warranty and return policy.

At a minimum, you should look for one that will repair or replace your backpack within the first year of use if the wheels or handle become stuck or break or if something else is defective. Look for companies that stand by their product.

How Do You Put Wheels on a Carry-on Bag?

Putting wheels on your carry-on bag is pretty easy. You’ll need the following materials: wheels, metal plates, a market, nuts and bolts, a grommet kit, and of course the carry-on back you wish to alter.

Step1 : Place the casters on the metal plates and mark the holes.

Step 2 : Drill your holes.

Step 3 : Match your drilled holes up with where you want the metal plate and wheels placed on the bottom of your bag. Mark the bottom of the bag.

Step 4 : Grommet the bag in the places you have marked.

Step 5 : Match up the grommets, metal plate, and wheels and bolt them together.

Step 6 : Enjoy your new convenient carry-on

Tip : Make sure your bag will not be too large with the added height of the wheels.

Our Top Pick

All in all, our team has decided that the best travel backpack on this list is the Everki Atlas Wheeled Laptop Backpack .

Not only does this backpack hold a significant amount of positive reviews but it also comes at a reasonable price tag in relation to the features it offers, such as the RFID blocking pockets and removable dedicated laptop compartment.

As I mentioned previously, the Everki Atlas brand backpack displays a stunning amount of versatility in regard to its storage space and design.

While it may not possess the biggest level of storage, the Everki Atlas provides way too much functionality for the average traveler to pass up.

It essentially serves as an all-purpose bookbag with extra guarantees.

Wheeled Backpack FAQ

What is the best travel bag with wheels.

The best travel bag with wheels will have durable and high-quality wheels, a sturdy frame, and ample storage capacity, such as the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage.

Are wheeled backpacks worth it?

Wheeled backpacks offer the convenience of a backpack with the added benefit of wheels, making them a good option for individuals who need to carry heavy loads over uneven terrain or for extended periods, but they may not be as comfortable to wear as a traditional backpack.

Can you take a 40L backpack as a carry-on?

Each airline determines the acceptability of carry-on luggage by size and weight, not by storage capacity. But, most of the time, a 40L backpack is accepted as carry-on luggage.

What are backpacks with wheels called?

Backpacks with wheels are generally called wheeled backpacks. In the United States, they’re also sometimes called roller backpacks, rolling luggage, rolling backpacks, backpack on wheels, wheeled carry-on, wheely backpacks, and trolley luggage.

In British English backpacks with wheels may be referred to as rucksacks with wheels or rolling rucksacks. Another fun name for bags with wheels is spinner luggage.

Which brand makes the best backpack with wheels?

There is no one “best” brand that makes backpacks with wheels, as it depends on individual preferences and needs. However, some popular brands that offer high-quality wheeled backpacks include Osprey, Eagle Creek, Samsonite, and High Sierra.

What is the most popular backpack?

The most popular backpack and the number #1 best seller of all time are Matein Travel Laptop Backpack, with a rating of 4.8/5 out of 60k reviews. It is waterproof and features a USB charging port, anti-theft pockets, a separate laptop compartment, and a suitcase sleeve.

How long should a backpack last?

A good quality backpack from a highly regarded manufacturer can last 20 years or more.  That being said the average lifetime of a high-end backpack is around 10 years.

Is JanSport a good brand?

JanSport is a well-respected backpack brand that offers a range of durable and functional backpacks suitable for various activities. They are known for their high-quality construction, comfortable designs, and stylish appearance, making them a good choice for many people.

Why do people use roller backpacks?

People use roller backpacks to combine the convenience of a backpack with the ease of transporting luggage on wheels. This makes it easier to carry heavy loads over long distances or uneven terrain while still having the option to wear the backpack on their back when needed.

Are rolling bags better for your back?

Rolling bags can be better for your back as they reduce the physical strain of carrying a heavy load by allowing you to roll the bag on its wheels rather than carrying it on your back. However, they can also create strain on other parts of the body, such as the arms and shoulders, when lifting or pulling the bag.

Is it better to travel with a backpack or a suitcase?

Backpacks are generally better for carrying heavier loads over longer distances or uneven terrain, while suitcases are better suited for smoother surfaces and packing more delicate items that require protection.

More Travel Accessories…

• Best Women’s Travel Purses
• Best Portable Electric Toothbrushes 
• Best Water Shoes for Beach
• Best GoPro Travel Accessories
• Best Fanny Packs on the Market
• Best Men’s and Women’s Hot Weather Travel Pants

Last update on 2024-06-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

11 Best Camera Backpacks for Travel 2024 And Buying Guide

10 Best Travel Electric Toothbrushes for Your 2023 Holiday

10 Best Luggage for European Travel (2023 Review & Guide)

11 Best Portable Blenders for Travel (2023 Testing Results)

15 Best Travel Blankets (2023 Buying Guide) To Keep You Warm

11 Best Compact Binoculars for Travel (2023 Guide)

Popular nightlife articles.

Thai Ladyboy, What is it and How to Spot Ladyboys in...

All about Ping Pong shows in Thailand – Top tips and...

10 Best Vacations for Single Guys to Get Laid in 2023

17 Best Private Resorts in Antipolo With Pool in 2024

Best Resorts in Quezon City, Metro Manila with Private Pool

Popular travel accessories.

7 Best Baby Monitors for Travel (2023 Buying Guide & Review)

Best Travel Gifts for Men Who Love to Travel (2023 Results)

Revealed: 23 Best Travel Guides for Southeast Asia (Updated August 2023)

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do.

Quick Access

• Privacy Policy

LET'S CHAT ON

Last Updated on June 24, 2023 by Sunny

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

• Backchannel
• Newsletters
• WIRED Insider
• WIRED Consulting

Adrienne So Gear Team

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.

Nena Farrell

Julian Chokkattu

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

Scott Gilbertson

Brenda Stolyar

Medea Giordano

WIRED COUPONS

Extra 20% Off Select Dyson Technology With Owner Rewards

Capture More Savings: Up To 15% Off GoPro Cameras

Get Up To Extra 45% Off - May Secret Sale

5% Off Everything With Dell Coupon Code

VistaPrint Coupon Code: 20% Off Select Signage

Newegg Coupon - 10% Off

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.

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.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Best in Class

• 16 of the Very Best Water Bottles 16 of the Very Best Water Bottles
• The 7 Very Best Cable Organizers The 7 Very Best Cable Organizers
• The 8 Very Best e-Readers The 8 Very Best e-Readers
• The 12 Very Best Pregnancy Pillows The 12 Very Best Pregnancy Pillows
• The 23 Very Best Bedsheets The 23 Very Best Bedsheets
• The Very Best Booster Seats The Very Best Booster Seats
• 13 of the Very Best Coffee Grinders 13 of the Very Best Coffee Grinders
• The 9 Very Best Nail Clippers The 9 Very Best Nail Clippers
• 13 of the Very Best Espresso Machines 13 of the Very Best Espresso Machines
• The 10 Very Best Down Pillows The 10 Very Best Down Pillows
• The 13 Very Best Moisturizers for Mature Skin The 13 Very Best Moisturizers for Mature…
• The 16 Very Best Moisturizers for Oily Skin The 16 Very Best Moisturizers for Oily S…
• The 15 Very Best Car Seats for Kids The 15 Very Best Car Seats for Kids
• The 16 Very Best Eye Creams The 16 Very Best Eye Creams
• The 11 Very Best Yoga Mats The 11 Very Best Yoga Mats
• The 16 Very Best Protein Powders The 16 Very Best Protein Powders
• The 10 Very Best Cooling Sheets The 10 Very Best Cooling Sheets
• The 7 Very Best Bidets The 7 Very Best Bidets
• The 11 Very Best Night Creams The 11 Very Best Night Creams
• The 12 Very Best iPad Cases The 12 Very Best iPad Cases
• The Very Best Skin-Care Products for Redness and Rosacea The Very Best Skin-Care Products for Red…
• The 7 Very Best Smartwatches, According to Experts The 7 Very Best Smartwatches, According…
• The 30 Very Best Mascaras The 30 Very Best Mascaras
• The 7 Best Baby Carriers The 7 Best Baby Carriers
• The 14 Very Best Pillows for Back Sleepers The 14 Very Best Pillows for Back Sleepe…
• 33 of the Very Best Vibrators 33 of the Very Best Vibrators
• The 8 Very Best Lubes The 8 Very Best Lubes
• The Very Best Curtain Rods The Very Best Curtain Rods
• The 12 Very Best Couches The 12 Very Best Couches
• The 17 Very Best Duvet Covers The 17 Very Best Duvet Covers
• The 10 Very Best Mattress Protectors The 10 Very Best Mattress Protectors
• The Very Best Personal Blenders The Very Best Personal Blenders
• The 17 Very Best Work Bags for Women The 17 Very Best Work Bags for Women
• The Very Best Face Moisturizers The Very Best Face Moisturizers
• The 12 Very Best Loafers for Women The 12 Very Best Loafers for Women
• The 11 Very Best Fanny Packs The 11 Very Best Fanny Packs
• The 9 Very Best Slippers for Men The 9 Very Best Slippers for Men
• The 11 Very Best White T-shirts for Men The 11 Very Best White T-shirts for Men
• The Very Best Washable Rugs The Very Best Washable Rugs
• The 10 Very Best Cooling Pillows The 10 Very Best Cooling Pillows
• The 15 Very Best Women’s Deodorants and Anti-perspirants The 15 Very Best Women’s Deodorants and…
• 23 of the Very Best Sex Toys for Couples 23 of the Very Best Sex Toys for Couples
• The 9 Very Best Face Washes for Acne The 9 Very Best Face Washes for Acne
• The Very Best Body Oils The Very Best Body Oils
• The 18 Very Best Bath Towels The 18 Very Best Bath Towels
• The 13 Very Best Play Mats for Babies and Kids The 13 Very Best Play Mats for Babies an…
• The 9 Very Best Callus Removers The 9 Very Best Callus Removers
• 14 of the Very Best Olive Oils 14 of the Very Best Olive Oils
• The 10 Very Best Rice Cookers The 10 Very Best Rice Cookers
• The 8 Very Best Toners The 8 Very Best Toners

The 11 Very Best Pieces of Rolling Luggage

“it has survived being dragged across sand, dirt, and cobblestones.”.

In this article

Best rolling luggage overall.

• Best less expensive
• Best for frequent fliers
• Best mixed material
• Best aluminum
• Best for overpackers

Best rolling-luggage set

• Best soft-side

Whether I’m running frantically toward the gate or strolling through security at a more leisurely pace, my trusty spinner suitcase makes travel so much easier. It’s helpful for keeping me organized once I arrive at my destination, too. Unlike most backpacks or duffels, the best rolling luggage has storage compartments, sturdy handles, and plenty of space. There’s something so pleasing about packing your items neatly before a trip, especially if your suit case has built-in compression storage.

To find rolling luggage for every kind of traveler, fellow Strategist travel writer Rachael Griffiths and I tested a dozen or so different pieces, from stretchy nylon cases with warranties that last a lifetime to bash-resistant plastic luggage. We tended to prefer hard-side cases over a soft-side, and especially those with the aforementioned compression dividers, which allow for a bit of overpacking. While some pieces may cost more than others, we’ve also learned that if you’re not fussy about the type of plastics used (ABS costs less than polycarbonate but can withstand some real rattling in transit), there are bargains to be found. While you’re here, you may want to check out my guides to the best  Dopp kits  and the best  refillable toiletry bottles .

What we’re looking for

Hard-shell vs. soft-side.

Most experts I spoke to prefer hard-shell luggage, and I agree. It’s durable and easy to clean, it protects your clothes if it rains, and it’s harder for bedbugs to penetrate if you encounter any on your trip. The hard-shells on this list are made from either ABS, an inexpensive but less durable plastic; polycarbonate, a more durable but also lightweight material; or aluminum, which is slightly heavier, but the most durable. Most on this list are polycarbonate, but there are a few soft-sided pieces too, for those who haven’t made the switch yet. While they aren’t as durable, “from a repair standpoint, we always feel that the canvas soft-sided luggage is better than the hard-side luggage because you can repair canvas,” Tony Pecorella, president and CEO of Modern Leather Goods, a repair shop in Manhattan, says. He’s an authorized repairman for many of the luggage brands below and says someone comes in with a cracked hard-shell every day and “there’s no repairing them at all.” So in addition to soft-side suitcases being fixable, they’re also overpacking-friendly because you can stuff more in them than a rigid polycarbonate case (and finesse a larger carry-on to fit in an overhead bin, too.)

Our experts continuously raved about the wheels on their favorite suitcases, describing them as smooth and sturdy. Most were talking about their four spinner wheels, which make the suitcase much easier to push along as it can glide in all directions. For comfort and ease of use, four wheels is definitely the way to go and is our recommendation, but again, Pecorella says it’s not the best choice from a repair standpoint. “It is always stronger to have the case that has the two wheels on it,” he says. “Those wheels are encased, so the only thing that can really happen on those wheels is that they wear out eventually like tires on your car.” With the four spinners — which Pecorella fully admits to using personally — he says because they aren’t encased and just are attached to the bottom of the suitcase, you run the risk of them being banged off. “If you’re rolling off a curb or if you hit the escalator too hard, it’ll just snap the wheel right off,” he says. “That’s one of the biggest repairs we do here all day.” However, a good warranty should cover this (more on that below.)

Almost none of the suitcases on this list go the easy-repair route of being soft-side and having two wheels, and that’s because most have pretty good warranties. The biggest phrase you want to avoid is “limited to manufacturer’s defects,” which Pecorella says means they basically cover nothing and will attribute damage to wear and tear, or say it’s your fault or the airline’s fault. “Lifetime warranty” is ideal.

If you’ve checked an overweight bag before, you’ll know how much those extra charges can sting. Lightweight suitcases are ideal for overpackers — including myself — so I’ve included each case’s weight when empty.

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: From 7.4 pounds  

If you’re after a relatively affordable suitcase that doesn’t have to be babied on cobbled streets and will survive being dragged up several flights of stairs, I’m not sure you can do much better than Away. The brand’s sturdy spinner wheels can truly take a battering, and they’ll also glide joyfully across flat surfaces when given the opportunity. I’ve been testing the Bigger Carry-on, which has a 50-liter capacity yet still fits in most overhead bins, over the past couple of months. Griffiths, who lives in Europe (where airline luggage requirements are much stingier), tested the original, smaller size and was surprised by how much she could fit into it. All of the brand’s rolling-luggage pieces feature the same qualities essential to a modern suitcase and come highly praised by travel experts. Stephanie Be from travelbreak.net and Buena calls out the “TSA-approved lock, 360-degree wheels, tough hardware, and sleek design.” Kelly Farber , founder of KF Literary Scouting, took only the larger size on a three-week, seven-city business trip, and says, “That thing just would not quit.” Strategist editor Maxine Builder also has experience with the Away warranty after her internal zipper broke in 2019: “There was a fair bit of back-and-forth over the next four months, but I ended up with a replacement suitcase in exactly the same limited-edition colorway with the same hand-painted monogram, all for free.” Five years later, she’s still traveling with it.

Best less expensive polycarbonate rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited ten year | Weight: 7.9 pounds

Usually, cheaper hardside suitcases are made from ABS, a less durable plastic than the polycarbonate more expensive brands use. That’s why this case is such a rarity: It costs less than $200 (and is often on sale), and it’s made from the more durable polycarbonate. It also includes all of the features I’d expect from more expensive brands, like four 365-degree spinner wheels, TSA-approved locks, and a built-in USB port to use with a power bank. Travel blogger Courtney Vondran says that “it’s a great option for budget travelers or first-timer carry-on travelers who want nice pieces for more affordable prices.” So far, Vondran has taken her case with her on “road trips throughout the Midwest, a work trip to Egypt, vacation to L.A. , travel conference in Memphis, romantic getaway to Maine,” — and it’s all been protected by the case’s limited ten-year warranty, which covers any major damages beyond reasonable wear and tear.

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime | Weight: From 6.2 pounds

Quince , the five-year-old start-up that seems to make a little bit of everything, recently added rolling luggage to its growing inventory . I’ve been testing out the brand’s carry-on-size suitcase as well as its larger, checked one, both made from the same durable polycarbonate that Away and Open Story use. In terms of weight and feel, Quince’s affordable suitcases are surprisingly similar to Away’s in particular. When I nudged an Away Bigger Carry-on and Quince Carry-on across my apartment floor side by side, their wheels carried them about the same distance, and their retractable handles are almost identical in form and function. Both brands use YKK zippers and TSA-approved combination locks. Inside, the compression compartments and removable laundry bag are also essentially the same. And Quince recently introduced a limited lifetime warranty on its suitcases that offers protection against defects like broken handles and zippers — mimicking Away’s famous replacement guarantee.

Best less-expensive ABS rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: ABS hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited warranty | Weight: 7.3 pounds

This Amazon Basics case is made from the less durable plastic ABS, but it’s still one of Griffiths’s favorites. “In my experience, it’s rare to find a case that costs under $100 that can compete with more expensive brands,” she says. “As it is made from a cheaper plastic, I was surprised by how thick and sturdy the suitcase feels — it has a nice thud when you knock against the exterior.” As well as being thick, the exterior is also scratch resistant , and the case also has a well-designed handle, smoothly rolling wheels, handles for comfort, and a built-in lock. The warranty is where this bag falls slightly short, though (and may explain the cheaper price tag): it’s only a three-year limited warranty that protects against defects in materials and workmanship — which Pecorella says is the type to avoid.

Best rolling luggage for frequent fliers

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Five -year manufacturer’s guarantee | Weight: 7.1 pounds

The Rimowa Essential line of suitcases is excellent; more than ten experts we spoke with recommended the brand, but its extravagant price prevents it from taking the top spot on this list. If you do have the money to spare, it comes in 11 colors and two finishes and works like a dream. Owners especially praise the wheels. “I won’t pretend to understand all the physics behind the bearings and axles on Rimowa’s bags, but I do know they spin amazingly well through the airport,” Summer Hull, director of travel content at the Points Guy , says. Fellow travel writer Hillary Eaton also told me she had no problem lugging the case on a 48-hour journey from Vancouver to Machu Picchu by “tiny floatplane, three long-haul flights, a five-hour bus, and a two-hour train ride.” Several owners also pointed out how easy it is to get this suitcase repaired if anything goes wrong. However, while there’s a manufacturer’s guarantee of five years, it only applies if you remember to register your product when you purchase it. Otherwise, it lasts for only two.

Best rolling luggage for budget airlines

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: ABS hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: One-year limited | Weight: 6 pounds

I first learned about this teeny-tiny rolling case when researching the best personal-item-size luggage . It came recommended by Jasmine Anderson and Natasha Wilson , travel agents and co-hosts of the podcast  Travel Fly Sexy , as well as packing expert  Lauren Kelly . They all praise its snap-off spinner wheels that can slide miraculously into the cruelest of budget-airline baggage-sizers. (“Frontier lately is charging people for wheels and handles sticking out of the sizers,” says Kelly. “That means $100 extra for each leg of the trip.”) Measuring 18 by 14 by eight inches, the suitcase’s rectangular shape maximizes space and allows you to use packing cubes: “I have put a laptop and a week’s worth of clothes in the Take Off,” says Anderson. Kelly agrees that “it will give you the most packing space if your goal is a weeklong trip where you pack a personal item only.” The suitcase comes with a small bag to put its wheels in while your bag is being sized by airline staff; you can also just stash them in your pockets.

Best customizable rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 7.9 pounds

Strategist associate editor Jenna Milliner-Waddell calls July the “the Away of the Down Under.” And while the July Carry-on offers a lot of the same features as the Away, it has the added perk of a USB-C port so you can charge your iPhone or your laptop straight from the bag. July’s smallest carry-on weighs about half as much as Away’s, even though they both have similar liter capacities, and you can personalize it. This particular case sets itself apart with a removable fabric front pocket, which came in handy for Christine Wang, founder of TheSkiGirl who is generally a fan of soft-side luggage. If you’re traveling for work, everything you need is easily accessible, and instead of digging through your bag to remove your laptop at TSA, you can easily just snap this pouch off instead.

Best aluminum rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Aluminum hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 10.1 pounds

Aluminum cases are as tough as they come: unlike with plastic cases, you don’t need to worry about them cracking and spilling all your belongings. They often have the added security of a clamp rather than a zip, which again is less likely to burst. This case comes from Away and has all the same specs as my favorite case overall, though it’s slightly heavier, so you may have to pack a bit lighter if you’re checking it in. Despite this, travel writer Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon says there’s plenty of space for all the essentials she’d need for a three- or four-day trip. Swede White, who works for Amazon and has to travel monthly for his job, told me the only downside to this case is that he finds it scuffs easily. Away acknowledges that this will happen, alluding to it as developing a patina over time — if you prefer a pristine case, it all boils down to personal taste.

Best rolling luggage for overpackers

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 8.36 pounds

If, like me, you can’t travel without taking your entire closet, Béis’s luggage is for you. By unzipping an internal section, the bag expands by up to three inches — meaning you can shove that extra sweater inside. More stuff means a heavier bag, but Béis’s built-in weight-limit indicator ensures you don’t teeter over the 50-pound weight restriction for many checked bags. A red mark will appear if the luggage is over, which should save you some stress and money at the check-in counter. As well as a water-resistant zipper, travel blogger HeyCiara told me she appreciates how the case also has a TSA lock, a handle with ergonomic support, and a built-in laundry and shoe bag to prevent your clothes from getting soiled.

Material: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Lifetime | Weight: Various

If you’re traveling as a family, a set of luggage can be the most efficient and economic way to go. This suitcase set has accompanied Strategist senior editor Ailbhe Malone’s family on trips for two years. Aside from having everything you would expect from a great quality suitcase — “smooth wheels, extremely comfortable handle, more than enough space,” Malone says — these cases are eminently easy to store. That’s because they slot inside one another, meaning you can stash a whole family’s worth of luggage in the space of a single suitcase. The polycarbonate cases come in a range of 11 pleasing colors, and thanks to their construction, any scratches or scuffs will appear as the same shade as the case, no matter how deep. For bigger concerns, the set comes with a lifetime warranty, which covers the wheels, handles, and shells.

Best soft-side rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Nylon soft-side | Compression strap | Wheels: Encased wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 5.4 pounds

From a repair standpoint, this suitcase is a dream. It’s made from easy-to-repair nylon and has just two encased wheels that won’t snap off. It expands up to two inches and has multiple compartments. None of this is groundbreaking, but that’s why I like this bag: It’s simple, effective, and on the less expensive side at under $200. TripSavvy ’s former general manager Molly Fergus told me she’s traveled with the bag across Miami, Cancun, and all over Europe: “It’s survived being dragged across sand, dirt, and cobblestones,” she says. Travelpro’s limited lifetime guarantee covers defects to the wheels, zippers, extension handles, and carrying handles, and this lasts for however long you own it. On top of that, for the first year, your product is backed by its Trusted Companion Promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage caused by an airline and covers the shipping cost for any product that needs to be shipped to one of its repair facilities.

Update on May 23, 2024:  Updated Quince lifetime warranty information; updated prices and checked stock for all other products.

Additional reporting by Rachael Griffiths .

Some more rolling luggage we’ve written about

Our experts

•  Jasmine Anderson , co-host,  Travel Fly Sexy • Alexandra Baackes, travel blogger and founder of Wander Woman Retreats • Stephanie Be, founder of BUENA and blog Travel Break • Gabby Beckford , travel blogger • Kiana Brooks , luxury fashion buyer • Maxine Builder , Strategist editor • Hillary Eaton , food and travel writer • Kelly Farber, founder of KF Literary Scouting • Molly Fergus, former general manager of TripSavvy • Jacqui Gifford, Travel + Leisure editor-in-chief • Nicholas Gill , writer and photographer • Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon , travel writer • Summer Hull, director of travel content at The Points Guy • Jessie Hyman , co-founder of Pruzan Running • Ciara Johnson, travel blogger HeyCiara • Brian Kelly, The Points Guy • Lauren Kelly , packing expert • Ailbhe Malone , Strategist senior editor • Tom Marchant, co-founder of luxury travel and lifestyle brand Black Tomato • Tony Pecorella, president and CEO of Modern Leather Goods • Laura Ratliff , travel writer • Robin Reetz, writer and VP of marketing at Rag & Bone • Lauren Ro, Strategist writer • Alex Sanchez , consumer marketing manager at G Adventures • Chris Schalkx, co-founder of Rice/Potato • Jane Stoller , author of Decluttering for Dummies • Courtney Vondran , travel writer • Christine Wang, founder of TheSkiGirl • Swede White, principal content strategist at Amazon Web Services •  Natasha Wilson , co-host,  Travel Fly Sexy

The Strategist  is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best  acne treatments ,  pillows for side sleepers ,  natural anxiety remedies , and  bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission.

• the strategist
• best in class
• holiday travel guide

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Deal of the Day

Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.

• The 16 Very Best Protein Powders
• What Rick Steves Can’t Live Without
• Ask Chris Black: Best Non-Denim Pants for Summer?
• 27 Things on Sale: Including Ray-Bans and Crocs Clogs
• All of the Best Father’s Day Gift Ideas
• The Strategist Haul: What the Editors Bought in May
• The Strategist 100: Our Most Stood-Behind Products

Today’s Top Clicked

The Best Wheeled Luggage of 2024

Wheeled luggage needs to be smooth-rolling and durable enough to keep rolling for years of travel. Our picks from Monos, Travelpro, Db, and other top brands deliver that and more.

Shopping for the best wheeled luggage can be overwhelming. I know firsthand how tough it is trying to sift through different brands, designs, warranties, and more to pick the wheeled luggage for your next adventure.

I went through a series of cheap wheeled suitcases, and I constantly dealt with issues, from ripped zippers to broken wheels. Since then, I’ve traveled all over the world, tested dozens of suitcases, and learned a lot about what works for good luggage and what doesn’t.

Wheeled luggage is a broad category. It includes two-wheeled rollers, four-wheeled spinners, hard shell luggage, rolling duffel bags, wheeled backpacks, and everything in between. I’ve found that the best luggage is highly personal. You want wheeled luggage with the best quality and features, but it’s even more important that it fits your specific needs and preferences.

Whatever type of rolling luggage you are looking for, I’ve got you covered. Each one of these recommendations is hand-selected and is great at what it does. I’ll break down the strengths and weaknesses of each to help you know which one will work best for you.

• Best Wheeled Luggage Overall: Monos Check-In Medium
• Best Budget Wheeled Luggage: AmazonBasics 25" Softside Spinner
• Best Carry-On Wheeled Luggage: Briggs & Riley Torq 22"
• Best 2-Wheeled Carry On Luggage: Bric's X-Bag Carry-On Rolling Duffel
• Best Wheeled Duffel Bag for Checked Luggage: Travelpro Bold 30" Rolling Duffel
• Best Backpack Wheeled Luggage: Eagle Creek Gear Warrior Convertible Carry-On Backpack
• Best 2-Wheeled Checked Luggage: Db Hugger Roller Bag 90L
• Best Soft-Sided Wheeled Luggage: Travelpro Platinum Elite 25" Check-In
• Best Underseat Wheeled Luggage: Samsonite Theorym Underseater Spinner
• Best Rolling Duffel Bag Luggage: Bric’s X-Bag 21" Rolling Duffel
• Best 24-inch Wheeled Luggage: LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Check-In 24"
• Best 4-Wheeled Carry-On Luggage: Monos Carry-On Pro

Monos Check-In Medium : Best Wheeled Luggage Overall

Monos is one of the best luggage brands out there, and they’ve really earned their reputation. Their products emphasize minimalist design and uncompromising quality so that you can focus on enjoying the experiences of travel, not problems with your suitcase.

One thing I love about Monos is their commitment to quality. All of their products undergo intensive testing, and they offer an excellent limited lifetime warranty that covers repairs or replacement for damaged shells, wheels, handles, or zippers.

This Monos Check-In Medium is a sleek, durable suitcase that hits a perfect balance between functionality, style, and simplicity.

The durable polycarbonate shell is nearly unbreakable (as long as you aren’t tossing it off a moving bus). It also has tons of fun colors to choose from and a stylish, streamlined design that looks great in the airport (or on Instagram).

Monos’ quiet and ultra-durable spinner wheels make theirs some of the best rolling luggage on the market.

The interior organization of this suitcase is really well thought out, and it makes it easy to pack all your belongings neatly and securely. There are two big dividers that keep everything in place, and several zippered mesh pockets that give you a place for smaller items.

There really is a lot to love with this rolling luggage. It’s not the cheapest suitcase out there, but if you’re looking for a suitcase that looks good, functions better, and will last a lifetime, a Monos case is a great choice. For a closer look, check out our full Monos luggage review .

• Technical Specs

AmazonBasics 25" Softside Spinner : Best Budget Wheeled Luggage

If you’re looking for cheap luggage, Amazon is most likely where you’re doing your shopping. Amazon’s in-house brand, AmazonBasics, offers a great array of rolling luggage that is affordable and surprisingly capable.

If you’re looking for affordable luggage , you want something simple. You won’t get the same top-notch design as more premium luggage brands, so don’t worry about fancy features (which are just extra things to break), and focus on finding a suitcase that is durable enough to last more than just a few trips.

The AmazonBasics 25” Softside Spinner is a fairly basic soft shell suitcase with 360-degree spinner wheels. It definitely isn’t the most stylish or cleverly-designed rolling luggage out there, but it does the job and hits a great price point.

The outer material is a durable polyester fabric that offers some water resistance (though I definitely wouldn’t leave it out in a rainstorm). While the corners are somewhat reinforced, they aren’t as tough and rigid as more expensive rolling luggage, so I would be careful when packing fragile items.

This spinner bag doesn’t have much in the way of organization, but you do get one external front pocket, one internal pocket, and elastic compression straps. It’s pretty basic, but there’s ample space to bring everything for your trip.

One advantage of the simplistic design is that this suitcase is very lightweight for a checked bag at 6.8 lbs. I haven’t found many suitcases that are lighter than this while still offering so much space.

I also love that it has multiple grab handles on the sides and bottom. This is an easy-to-overlook feature, but it really makes it easier when you have to lift or move it.

While you definitely aren’t getting innovative design or premium materials, it is fairly well-built and offers great bang for your buck.

AmazonBasics also makes some of the best affordable carry-on luggage if you don’t need as much space. Plus, if you’re looking to buy a full set of suitcases, you can check out our article on the best cheap luggage sets .

Briggs & Riley Torq 22" : Best Carry-On Wheeled Luggage

Briggs & Riley is one of the most respected luggage brands in the industry. Their rolling luggage comes with painful price tags, but if you view it as a lifetime investment, you can start to see the value.

Briggs & Riley has one of the true lifetime warranties in the business. You can return any damaged suitcase, and they will repair or replace it, no questions asked.

If you travel extensively, your carry-on bag can really take a beating, and you want something that will last. A Briggs & Riley suitcase is something that will last your entire life, and you can hand it down to your grandkids.

The best carry-on luggage needs to be tough, lightweight, and have accessible exterior pockets. The Briggs & Riley Torq 22” gives you all this and more in a bomber hard-sided bag that will last forever.

This suitcase starts with a durable polycarbonate hard shell. It has a scratch-resistant texture and heavily reinforced corners.

The standout feature of this carry-on bag is the hinged outside pocket on the front. I personally think external pockets are a must-have for carry-on luggage so you have an easily accessible place for electronics, passports, and other essentials. Usually hard-sided bags don’t come with external pockets, so it’s awesome to see it included here.

The design of the front pocket is also unique. Instead of a zipper, it has a locking clasp and then opens on sturdy hinges. Zipped pockets tend to snag or break, so this design is better for long-term durability. It also makes it super easy and fast to open.

In the pocket, you’ll find a padded laptop sleeve and several compartments that make it easy to keep smaller items organized.

The internal organization is less impressive, with one zippered divider on one side and a compression system on the other.

If you want the best carry-on luggage , this is one of the best out there, though you’ll pay an arm and a leg for it.

Bric's X-Bag Carry-On Rolling Duffel : Best 2-Wheeled Carry On Luggage

Bric’s is a family-owned Italian brand that originally started making fine leather bags and travel gear. With an emphasis on preserving quality craftsmanship, their rolling luggage has high-end materials, impeccable build quality, and details like genuine leather detailing.

I won’t make it a secret that I really love two-wheeled rolling luggage. You get more durability than spinner wheels, more internal space, simpler construction, and even better ergonomics .

The best rolling carry-on luggage should capitalize on these advantages with durable construction and versatile design that’s ready for anything.

The Bric’s X-Bag Rolling Duffel is an adventurous soft-sided carry-on that is perfect for global (or domestic) travelers looking for rolling luggage that is lightweight and durable enough to go anywhere.

It’s made with a durable but lightweight polyamide fabric that has a PVC coating to give it good water resistance. This carry-on suitcase is tough while still being exceptionally light, meaning it’s easier to lift into the overhead bin or drag across a city.

With three internal pockets and a pair of simple compression straps, the internal organization isn’t anything special, but it works. If you like to be more organized, it’s probably worth investing in a set of packing cubes.

This rolling carry-on also is the perfect size to fit either domestic or international carry-on size restrictions . This adds a ton of versatility and means you can fly pretty much anywhere in the world with this bag.

It is expandable with a wraparound zipper that adds 2” of depth, or compressible with a compression system around the entire exterior, so you can expand or shrink this bag depending on the trip.

This lightweight luggage is versatile enough for any trip.

Travelpro Bold 30" Rolling Duffel : Best Wheeled Duffel Bag for Checked Luggage

The founder of Travelpro invented the two-wheeled rolling luggage back in the 80’s. They originally started selling carry-on suitcases for flight crews, and now they make some of the best soft-sided bags on the market.

Duffel bags are awesome for their ability to swallow surprising amounts of gear. They are easy to pack, easy to store, and dead simple. Combine that with a pair of wheels, and you get a load-hauling machine that’s ready for any long adventure.

The Travelpro Bold 30” Rolling Duffel is a massive beast compared to most rolling luggage. With 118 L of storage space, it has room for family vacations or long-term international moves.

The exterior fabric is a rugged high-denier polyester with a waterproof coating. This material should prove almost indestructible for normal use.

Everything about this bag is rugged and overbuilt. With reinforced wheels, skid guards, corner bumpers, and big, beefy handles, it feels tough and should stand up to some abuse.

The massive main compartment is divided into two sections, and each of them can be accessed by its own dedicated zipper opening. This makes it easy to keep things organized and separated and makes the enormous space that much more functional (if you need one large space, you can also zip away the divider to combine the two compartments).

Getting into the lower compartment isn’t super easy when everything is packed to the brim, so I wouldn’t use this for anything you need frequent access to.

It also has an outside-access wet pocket that works great as a hidden laundry bag for keeping damp or dirty clothes separate from the rest of your gear.

It comes in an array of colors, so you can pick one that will be easy to find at the baggage claim.

Of course, it’s important to acknowledge that this duffel is huge, bulky, and a little difficult to manage. If you can get away with something smaller, I’d recommend that. However, if you need a massive rolling duffel as your checked luggage for gear-intensive trips, this is the one to get.

Eagle Creek Gear Warrior Convertible Carry-On Backpack : Best Backpack Wheeled Luggage

Eagle Creek has been selling travel gear for over 40 years, and they specialize in highly durable and capable bags and suitcases for travelers who venture far off the beaten bath.

You won’t get sleek urban styling in Eagle Creek’s lineup, but you will get tough, functional designs and a fantastic “No Matter What” warranty.

During travel, wheeled luggage really makes a lot of sense for carry-on bags. With wheels, you don’t have to carry all the weight, and it’s easy to maneuver through crowds or wait in lines at airports.

Sometimes, though, a backpack is a better option. If you are venturing into more remote areas or will be doing a lot of walking, dragging a suitcase behind you can be awkward and cumbersome.

The Eagle Creek Gear Warrior Convertible Carry-On Backpack is an innovative carry-on that can transform from a standard rolling suitcase into a comfortable carry-on backpack .

This bag has thickly-padded shoulder straps and a supportive hip belt to help distribute the load when using it as a backpack. I love that the bag is really designed around backpack carry rather than just throwing shoulder straps on as an afterthought.

When you’re ready to use it as a wheeled carry-on, the shoulder straps and hip belt can stow away behind a zippered panel so they aren’t in the way.

This carry-on backpack has oversized durable wheels with chunky rubber tires that perform great over rougher surfaces.

One thing I don’t love is having to deal with all the straps and buckles while wheeling through the airport or stuffing it into overhead bins. Even when you stow away the hip belt and shoulder straps, there are still compression straps that can snag and get in the way.

One last feature: this rolling carry-on backpack comes with a smaller 18L daypack that attaches to the front of the main bag. I love that you get a full-sized carry-on and a compact travel daypack in a functional package.

Db Hugger Roller Bag 90L : Best 2-Wheeled Checked Luggage

Db is a Scandinavian brand that builds tough luggage for adventurous travelers. With bags for everything from skis to surfboards to mountaineering gear, they have luggage for any adventure.

Db also emphasizes innovative design, and they’ve invented an array of technologies meant to make their bags light, protective, and functional.

The Db Strom Roller Bag 90L is a big, tough softshell rolling luggage with a simple (yet highly functional) design and durable construction.

This big two-wheeled bag has a ton of storage space for longer or more gear-intensive trips. The main compartment opens fully, making it super easy to pack and access anything inside.

There isn’t a ton of organization, though. You get a few mesh pockets along the inside to store small items, but I would prefer having multiple compartments. I really like being able to have a designated place for everything while packing, so while the big open compartment can fit a lot of stuff, it isn’t the best for keeping it organized.

One of the most innovative features of this rolling luggage is the “rib-cage” design, patented by Db. It is a softshell bag, but it has hard ABS ribs built into the material. This gives it extra rigidity and makes it very protective for your packed gear while still staying lightweight.

This bag also has Db’s unique “Hook-Up System” that lets you attach a carry-on or backpack from Db. This makes it easy to roll through the airport without juggling multiple bags.

If you’re looking for two-wheeled rolling luggage that’s big, protective, and durable, the Db Hugger is worth checking out.

Travelpro Platinum Elite 25" Check-In : Best Soft-Sided Wheeled Luggage

Here’s another product from Travelpro. While they originally started with two-wheeled rolling luggage, they also make some great spinner luggage . The Travelpro Platinum Elite line is their high-end range of rolling luggage designed with flight attendants, pilots, and other frequent fliers in mind.

Platinum Elite products cost more than Travelpro’s less expensive suitcases, but they have higher-end materials, more advanced designs, and an upgraded limited lifetime warranty. This line includes the best soft side luggage on the market.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite 25” Check-In is a stylish, smooth-rolling suitcase that is fully outfitted for the most organized travelers.

The four spinner wheels are ultra-smooth and plenty durable for long-term use. Spinner wheels don’t shine on rough surfaces though, so if you’re heading out on cobblestone streets in Europe, you’ll probably want to get one of their bags with two wheels.

The built-in TSA-approved lock is super easy to use and keeps your belongings secure throughout your trip.

The organization of this suitcase is awesome, and it is way more than you see in most check-in luggage. There are two exterior pockets, a removable wet bag for toiletries and liquids, and a nifty compression system with two zippered pockets built-in. The fold-out garment holder for hanging clothes like suits, making this perfect luggage for men traveling for business.

I love seeing that level of organization in a suitcase, though for many people, it may be more than you need (especially the garment hanger). It also adds extra weight to the bag. While weight isn’t the most important thing for checked luggage, it is good to be aware of so you don’t end up paying extra for an overweight bag.

If you want a durable and super organized softshell check-in suitcase, the Travelpro Platinum Elite spinner is a great choice.

Samsonite Theorym Underseater Spinner : Best Underseat Wheeled Luggage

Underseat carry-ons are perfect for keeping all your travel essentials like electronics, books, passports, and snacks close at hand (never separate yourself from your snacks while flying).

The Samsonite Theorym is ideal for this, with tons of organization pockets to keep your phone, tablet, headphones, charging cords, books, and more within easy access in the airplane. You can pack your clothing in your checked bags or bigger carry-on while keeping smaller items close by in this underseat spinner suitcase.

The overall design is well-thought-out, with storage in the lid and a padded laptop/tablet sleeve that folds out of the way to give access to the main compartment. You also get an exterior pocket so it’s easy to get to important items.

The 360-degree spinner wheels make rolling it through the airport effortless.

The zippers are also lockable, so you can add a TSA-approved lock to keep your belongings secure.

This underseat carry-on is small, and most people will definitely want a bigger carry-on to be their main suitcase. It is also surprisingly heavy for its tiny size.

If you need a little extra packing space in addition to your main carry-on or check-in suitcase, the Samsonite Theorym is a perfect addition to your travel arsenal.

Bric’s X-Bag 21" Rolling Duffel : Best Rolling Duffel Bag Luggage

Bric’s is a 70-year-old Italian brand that makes luggage, purses, packs, and other travel gear with an emphasis on old-world craftsmanship, timeless design, and solid quality.

If you appreciate good design, you’re sure to find something you like from Bric’s. They have a wide range of beautiful products that look amazing and function just as well.

The X-Bag 21” Rolling Duffel is probably the only duffel bag in the world that can claim to be stylish. Typically when you envision a duffel bag, you think of a big, bulky, oblong blob that looks more like a bean bag with handles than luggage. Not so with this sleek carry-on duffel.

The style is spot-on here, with an adventurous but refined design and premium leather trim detail that really adds that next level of sophistication. This carry-on duffel bag is your best bet if you want to travel in style.

Not only does it look great, but also functions great as a piece of carry-on luggage. The big wide-opening main compartment is super easy to pack, and there is an exterior pocket and three internal pockets.

I personally wish there was a bit more organization on the inside to keep things from turning into a jumbled mess. It also doesn’t have any sort of laptop sleeve, so it definitely won’t be the best for business travel or any other trips where you’re taking a laptop.

This carry-on duffel rolls on a pair of oversized ball-bearing wheels that are smooth and durable. You’ll have no problem taking on cobblestoned streets in Europe.

Overall, if you’re looking for a carry-on duffel bag that looks amazing, this is the one to get.

LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Check-In 24" : Best 24-inch Wheeled Luggage

LEVEL8 is a modern luggage brand that specializes in streamlined hard-sided suitcases. They offer many of the same features and quality materials as higher-end brands but hit a much more affordable price point. I really love the sleek, understated appearance of their cases.

A 24-inch suitcase is a good compromise when you need a bit more space than most carry-ons, but don’t want to deal with an oversized check-in bag. The Luminous Textured Check-In 24″ gives you a check-in suitcase with ample packing space and no unnecessary bulk.

The ultra-simple exterior is sleek and stylish, and it looks good anywhere. It’s also made with a tough German Makrolon Polycarbonate shell, meaning it will stand up to some abuse. This is a premium-grade shell at a much lower cost than brands like Monos and Away.

The fit and finish of this case is really spot-on. I love the subtle texturing, and every detail seems to be really well-thought-out. Honestly, it just looks and feels good!

Even though this is a big-ish hard shell suitcase, it isn’t overly heavy, meaning you can pack more without worrying about going over airline weight limits.

My biggest complaint (and you may be sensing a theme here) is that I wish this suitcase had more organization. There is a large divider and a few internal pockets, but it’s pretty basic overall. I like having a place for everything (and everything in its place) so more pockets and dividers would be welcome here.

Monos Carry-On Pro : Best 4-Wheeled Carry-On Luggage

It’s fitting to finish this list where we started: with another sleek hard-shell suitcase from Monos.

The Monos Carry-On Pro bag stood out in all our tests for sheer functionality. It has durable wheels, fantastic internal organization, and an external pocket.

This spinner suitcase is built around a durable polycarbonate shell. This lightweight material is tough, and the Monos hard shell is sleek, stylish, and impact-resistant, with reinforced corners. You can count on it to look good after years of travel.

Like all Monos cases, you get their durable and smooth spinner wheels that make them some of the best-rolling luggage out there.

Unlike most hard shell carry-ons, this case has an external-zippered pocket. This hard, protective pocket covers the entire front of the suitcase and has a padded laptop sleeve and plenty of smaller organizing compartments inside. I think external pockets are a must-have for carry-on. I love being able to keep important items within easy access, and the Monos Carry-On Pro is great for that.

You also get Monos’ great limited lifetime warranty, which gives you a lot of peace of mind.

If you’re looking for the best carry-on luggage with spinner wheels, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with this sleek and rugged case.

How to Choose Wheeled Luggage

There you have it! Twelve of the best rolling luggage options on the market. Each one is great at what it does, but which one’s right for you? There’s a lot that goes into choosing the best rolling luggage, from size to materials to features. Here are some of the key things to take into account while you shop:

One of the first things you’re going to need to decide is what size suitcase you need. Are you looking for a big checked bag or a compact international carry-on ?

It’s important to understand airline luggage size restrictions when picking a suitcase. Here are some of the categories to choose from and what size restrictions to expect.

• Checked luggage needs to be less than 62 linear inches to avoid extra fees (linear inches means you add the length, width, and height together)
• Domestic carry-on luggage in the US is typically limited to 22” x 14” x 9”
• International carry-on luggage is limited to 21.5” x 15.5” x 9”
• Underseat carry-on sizes vary by airline, but the limit is typically close to 18” x 14” x 8”.

Of course, you should always do a bit of research and know how to measure luggage to make sure a specific piece of luggage will work on the airlines you fly with.

Two Wheels or Four Wheels

The best rolling luggage falls into one of two categories: two-wheeled roller or four-wheeled spinner.

Luggage with four wheels seems to be all you see nowadays. These suitcases come with swiveling 360-degree spinner wheels that let you roll them in any direction. They are smooth, easy to use, and they can even be fun to maneuver through the airport (if anything about airports can be called fun).

Two-wheeled suitcases used to be the norm, but they’ve been losing ground to their spinner-wheel descendants. I still think there are a lot of reasons to choose two wheels over four.

For one, two-wheel luggage is typically more durable than spinner wheels. The wheels are tougher, bigger, and have sturdier mounts, so they do a better job on rough surfaces like cobblestones, brick, or unpaved paths.

Two-wheel suitcases also have more internal space because the wheels don’t take up as much room. This can make all the difference when you’re trying to pack your carry-on to the max.

Ultimately, the choice between two or four wheels comes down to personal preference. I personally prefer the durability and simplicity of two-wheeled luggage, but if ease of use is more important, you may be happier with spinner wheels.

Quality and Durability

Luggage takes a lot of abuse during travel, whether it’s the rough use from airline baggage handlers, or wear and tear from dragging it across cities around the world. The best rolling luggage should be built to handle everything you throw at it (within reason, of course).

There are a few common areas where luggage breaks: zippers, wheels, and corners are common problem areas. Here are a few points to look for when shopping for the best luggage:

• High quality zippers: I couldn’t tell you how many zippers I’ve snagged and broken over the years. I think it’s a curse. YKK-brand zippers are the best in the business, so I’d look for that in a good suitcase.
• Reinforced corners: Hard shell suitcases are most likely to break at the corners where they take repeated impact. Look for cases that have tough, reinforced corners.
• Good materials: A suitcase is only as good as the materials it’s made from. For hard shell luggage, polycarbonate is much better than ABS. For soft shell luggage, look for thick, durable fabrics like ballistic nylon or Cordura.
• Durable wheels: After having a pair of spinner suitcases break in Germany, I’ve become obsessed with finding luggage wheels that can handle abuse. Look for bigger wheels, ball bearings, and thick, rubber tires.

Of course, cost is going to be the trade-off here. Higher-quality luggage will typically cost more. If you are looking to hit an affordable price, you’ll want to find a suitcase that has good value and doesn’t compromise on basic build quality.

Most good luggage brands offer some sort of limited lifetime warranty. Basic warranties typically offer repair or replacement for manufacturing defects within a certain time frame.

Some companies offer better full-coverage warranties that will repair or replace your damaged suitcase no matter what. Carry-on fall from the overhead bin and break a wheel? Covered. Checked bag chewed up by the baggage claim conveyor? No problem.

Of course, luggage that comes with a better warranty usually costs more. You’re paying for the quality and service that goes into selling products that can be guaranteed for life. You’ll have to decide whether that’s worth it or not.

Wheeled Luggage Accessories

If you’re shopping for the best rolling luggage for your next trip, here are a few essential accessories to make sure you are fully equipped.

Monos Compressible Packing Cubes

It can be challenging to keep the main compartment of your suitcase neat and organized. It seems that no matter what you try, it always turns into a jumbled mess.

These zippered packing cubes are fantastic for keeping your suitcase organized. They come in sets of four or six with an array of different sizes to hold everything from socks to shirts.

The mesh front panel makes it easy to see what is inside each packing cube.

If you want to up your organization game while traveling, these are a fantastic choice.

Away Small Toiletry Bag

This small zippered bag works well for keeping all your toiletries organized and in one place.

One external zippered pocket and a transparent internal divider make it easy to see and access all your toiletries. Though it’s definitely compact, you’ll be surprised at how much fits in this little bag.

The small size is perfect for light packers, but if you need a bit more space, you can check out Away’s Large Toiletry Bag .

July Tech Kit

It can be hard to keep track of small electronic items like cables, headphones, and chargers. I usually find myself stuffing them into my pockets, or losing them deep in my luggage and having to dig them out.

This little case gives you a dedicated place for those small, easy-to-lose items. With room for earbuds, chargers, cables, a USB battery bank, and a pen/stylus, you won’t have to worry about losing anything.

The transparent plastic case protects your electronics while making it easy to see what’s inside, while elastic holders keep everything secure and organized.

Why Trust TravelFreak?

All of us on the TravelFreak team are avid travelers, and we have a lot of experience with rolling luggage. We’ve tested suitcases on our own business trips, vacations, and long-term overseas travel.

For this article, I consulted with the team and we put our heads together to list the best rolling suitcases out there. All the bags on this list were meticulously chosen based on our personal experience and testing during our own travels.

It’s a core value here that we only recommend products that we really like and would be happy using on our own adventures. We are dedicated to finding products that outperform others on the market, and everything on this list is the best at what it does (in our opinion and experience, of course).

Think we’ve missed something? Drop a recommendation in the comments. We’re always happy to check out new luggage and see how it measures up!

Wheeled Luggage FAQs

Which suitcase brand has the best wheels.

Monos suitcases have smooth-rolling wheels that are tested to be extremely long-lasting.

What are the best durable luggage wheels?

Eagle Creek rolling luggage has bomber oversized wheels that can take a lot of abuse.

Are 2 wheels or 4 wheels better on luggage?

2-wheeled rollaboard luggage is more durable, but 4-wheeled spinner luggage is easier to steer through the airport.

What is the best luggage for rolling on carpet?

Two-wheeled luggage is typically better for rolling in carpet than spinner luggage.

Do airlines prefer hard or soft luggage?

Hard luggage is preferred for check-ins as it’s more protective and less likely to snag or tear.

Jakob Thygerson

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Search our latest articles, reviews and gear guides

• TravelFreak on Instagram
• TravelFreak on Facebook
• TravelFreak on Twitter
• TravelFreak on Pinterest

Sign up now and get the best gear, travel tips, deals and destinations, straight to your inbox.

Thank you for signing up!

Luggage shop by size

Everything There is to Know About Luggage Wheels

Luggage Wheels Types: Everything You Need to Know

It’s almost hard to fathom that a few decades ago, people lugged their suitcases through airports, train stations, and city streets by hand – no wheels in sight. Then, in 1987, commercial airline pilot Bob Plath created a suitcase that rolled upright on two wheels pulled comfortably by a long handle. His invention would eventually become the Original Rollaboard®, and Plath would become the CEO of Travelpro®, the preferred luggage brand now carried by countless travelers and crews from over 90 airlines worldwide.

Today, you can’t travel anywhere without seeing modern luggage on wheels , such as inline skate wheels. Spinner luggage that rolls upright on four or more wheels has become as widely-loved, if not more so, than two-wheeled luggage. Yet, contrary to popular belief, more wheels is not always better and what goes into the wheels is even more important than how many there are.

Keys to choosing your perfect wheeled luggage include: understanding the advantages of each type of roll, knowing how and where you will take the bag, and choosing quality wheels made with the right materials.

Spinner Wheel Luggage vs. 2-Wheeled Luggage

Which type of rolling luggage is best for your needs? Will spinner luggage work for your travels, or is luggage with two wheels a better choice? Each type of roll has its own distinct function and benefits.

Luggage with two wheels is usually referred to as “Rollaboard” luggage, though true Rollaboard® luggage is only manufactured by Travelpro®. Luggage with four wheels is called “spinner” luggage, and comes in four- or eight-wheeled styles.

Compare the different types of spinner luggage here .

Of course, all roller luggage is designed to perform the same basic function: to let you roll your luggage rather than carry it. But how you roll on 2-wheeled vs. spinner luggage is where their designs differ. 

Two wheels provide a more durable and stable roll up steep hills and over uneven ground (like cobblestone streets). Two-wheeled luggage is also carried behind you at an angle with your arm down at your side. 

Four wheels provide better maneuverability on smooth surfaces because the wheels are designed to rotate 360° while the bag sits upright and rolls next to you. This lets you weave around obstacles as you move through airports or crowded streets. 

Of course, all spinner wheels are not created equal. If you have ever pushed a shopping cart with a wonky wheel, you know how frustrating it is when the wheels don’t cooperate. Be sure to choose spinner luggage with well-made components that keep all wheels going the same direction. 

Some Travelpro spinners take this a step further with MagnaTrac® 360° degree spinner wheels that use magnetic force to self-align, eliminating the chance of any rogue wheel slowing you down. 

Where and how you will use the luggage is what should lead your decision between buying 2-wheel vs. 4-wheel luggage

Consider this:   Reviews for the Travelpro Maxlite 5 expandable spinner are in and is made with great quality wheels and super lightweight composition, perfect for cobblestone roads or trotting through a crowded airport.

Luggage Wheel Materials

Along with wheel count, what the wheels are made of will make a big difference in how well your luggage handles and holds up. Luggage roller wheels are typically made of polyurethane (a highly-resilient flexible plastic), other plastics, or rubber.

Here are some tips to help you choose the type of wheels built to keep up with what you put them through:

• Polyurethane wheels are the highest quality luggage wheels currently on the market. They are ultra-durable and provide the smoothest and most silent roll.
• Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) is a specialized rubber designed to mimic the smoothness and durability of polyurethane, but at a lower cost. The issue with rubber is that it can wear down or grip too much and require more effort to roll. 
• Other plastics can be cheaper to manufacture and look similar but will not perform like polyurethane. Hard plastic wheels can break, crack, and chip due to their brittleness. 

Even though polyurethane is extraordinarily tough, it’s still light enough to keep your luggage lightweight, whether you opt for hardside luggage or or prefer a soft-sided bag. 

Check out how to find the best lightweight luggage and see how different styles compare.

Number of Wheels - 2, 4, or 8

Yes, luggage can include more than two wheels or four spinner wheels. Some spinner luggage even comes in eight-wheeled options.

Doubling up the spinner wheels on each corner of the rolling bag gives the luggage added durability and stability. Plus, eight wheels sharing the work lowers the chances for ever needing wheel repairs or replacements.

Additional Hardware for your Luggage Wheels

Ball bearings can also make a difference in how your luggage wheels perform. Every type of luggage wheel has ball bearings that allow it to spin. Quality luggage will be made with high-quality ball bearings that will last longer and roll smoother than low-quality, cheaply-made ones.

Still, even the best quality wheels can fail if they are extremely abused, get debris stuck in them, or have been used excessively. If you are carrying quality luggage and do lose a wheel or one becomes damaged, you do not have to retire the bag. If your luggage still has plenty of life in it, simply replace the wheels and keep on rolling!

Related: How-to replace luggage wheels quickly and easily.

🧭 Explore Our Guides

Luggage shopping guides.

Beginner Travel Tips

Airline tips.

Luggage Repair & Maintenance

The Best Carry-On Luggage and Weekender Bags for Summer Travel: Away, Samsonite, Calpak and More

The right luggage or carry-on bag for your upcoming vacation can help make any trip as smooth as possible.

If you're gearing up for your summer travel plans, you may be searching for the perfect luggage to accompany you on your upcoming getaway.  Carry-on luggage  — including weekender bags and spinners — is probably the best way to travel if you want to beat the lines at busy airports, especially if you're traveling on a Friday.

No matter where your travel destinations are, one thing's for sure: the right luggage will make all the difference. We've found the best luggage to shop for all of your travels, from spacious duffle bags and practical backpacks to large and luxurious carry-ons  for your next flight.

Need a new tote bag to toss everything in for an upcoming July 4th weekend getaway or a bigger carry-on for a tropical vacation? The Beis Weekender Bag will fit all your essentials and help you travel in style. Need a new go-to suitcase for every travel situation? Away’s  standard carry on traveler bag has plenty of packing space while still fitting in the overhead bin. Trying to avoid the checked baggage fees and long bag drop line? The Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Luggage helps you save money and time by going straight to TSA.

Below, we've rounded up the best carry-on luggage and weekender bags this year to take along on your summer trip.

The Best Carry-On Suitcases for 2024

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

Not only is the Samsonite Hardside Spinner perfectly sized and extremely durable, it's also incredible lightweight so you won't have to strain putting it in the overhead airplane compartment. With all kinds of pockets, you can easily organize all your belongings confidently. 

$200   $140

Away The Carry-On

This Away bag boasts flashy features such as a durable polycarbonate hard shell, spinner wheels and a TSA-approved, ejectable USB charger. The classic rolling hardside luggage with a retractable handle is designed to fit in most major airlines' overhead compartments, making it a great go-to Carry-On bag for travel, regardless of your destination.

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

This Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage makes traveling easier by being extremely lightweight. While protecting your items, the wheels rotate 360 degrees for a smooth and seamless stride in the airport. Although it is compact, this carry-on luggage has the ability to hold everything you need for a short vacation.

Take OFF Luggage Personal Item Suitcase 2.0

The perfect-sized luggage that doubles as a personal item — just pop off the wheels and slide it under your seat. 

Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Expandable Spinner

Travelpro is a pilot-founded brand that you've likely seen used by flight crews. Travel stress-free with the Travelpro hardside carry-on luggage that effortlessly fits in the overhead bins of major domestic airlines, thanks to rigorous sizer bin testing and enhanced packing capacity. The PrecisionGlide System delivers impeccable control and a seamless rolling experience, so you can get through the airport with ease.

$370   $314

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB Port

Compact and convenient, this soft-sided luggage can slide smoothly under the seat in front of you or be tucked away in an overhead bin. The bag's main compartment can fit several outfits and a spare pair of shoes. Interior pockets lining the compartment will keep your toiletries organized. The telescoping handle and rolling wheels make this bag easy to navigate around a crowded airport, making it a great choice for the frequent flyer looking to pack light.

$145   $100

Monos Carry-On

Traveling is a breeze with the minimalist Monos carry-on, designed to fit in the overheard bin of almost any flight.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

This Travelpro Maxlite softside luggage has spinner wheels and is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver airport terminals and your flight's overhead storage bins. 

The Best Travel Backpacks and Totes for 2024 

Samsonite detour travel backpack.

Built to protect your belongings from the elements, the Detour Travel Backpack has enough capacity for your business, overnight or weekend trips.

$150   $105

Béis Travel Tote

The Beis Travel Tote, from Shay Mitchell's baggage line, can conveniently slot into place atop a suitcase with its trolley sleeve, but can also be carried on its own with a detachable shoulder strap, and top handles designed to rest comfortably on your shoulder. This bag boasts a bottom zip shoe compartment, padded tech sleeve and multiple exterior and interior pockets. 

Calpak Luka Backpack

With multiple storage compartments including a separate laptop sleeve and a space to store your shoes that has its own exterior access, this lightweight Luka backpack will help you stay organized on the go.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

This travel backpack comes with a weight-distributing, low-profile harness system and a 35L capacity, making it suitable for carry-on use. It is designed with a full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment, along with large and subdivided zippered mesh compartments on the sides, providing convenient packing options. Additionally, its attractive design ensures you can easily identify your bag wherever you go.

Troubadour Featherweight Tote

A modern classic and easy-access bag. This Featherweight Tote features a light and waterproof fabric with vegan leather handles, and is perfect for gym trips or a day out!

Dagne Dover Jemi Puff Tote

Whether you're traveling to work or a weekend getaway, this lightweight tote is perfect with pockets for days to keep all your belongings organized. 

The Best Weekender Bags for 2024 

Lululemon go getter bag 2.0.

This sleek, modern bag looks like a tote and duffel rolled into one. There's also a little strap in the back that you can attach to your luggage. 

Away The Everywhere Bag

Away Travel's The Everywhere Bag lives up to its name: you can take it everywhere from work to the gym to a weekend away. It also pairs nicely with The Carry-On and The Bigger Carry-On.

Calpak Stevyn Duffel

Enjoy the benefits of a large bottom compartment, ideal for stowing shoes or enhancing the organization of your items.The roomy main compartment comes with interior pockets, ensuring you have plenty of space to store your belongings in a well-arranged manner.

SwissGear Apex Travel Duffle Bag

This duffle bag will come in handy during your next vacation. You can wear it multiple ways and it has reinforced sides to keep your belonging secure.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

For weekends away, this extra-large duffle includes a laptop sleeve, shoe bag and plenty of space for all your essentials.

Sign up to get the scoop on the best deals!

RELATED CONTENT:

Sales & Deals

Get 20% Off a 4-Pack of Apple AirTags Ahead of Your Summer Travels

The 15 Best Toiletry Bags for Spring Travel: Cosmetic Cases, Dopp Kits and More Starting at $10

Best Smart Luggage of 2024 to Make Travel Easier: Shop Smart Suitcases

Carry-On Luggage Essentials to Pack for Smooth Spring Travel, According to TikTok

The Best Practical and Stylish Diaper Bags for Dads On-the-Go

lululemon's Everywhere Belt Bag Is Available in New Colors for Spring

Dagne Dover's SS24 Collection Is a Tropical Dream Come True

The 16 Best Diaper Bags to Make Spring Travel with Kids Easier This Year

The Best Designer Tote Bags You'll Carry Everywhere From Work to Vacay

Updates on celebrity news, tv, fashion and more.

11 Best Luggage Pieces for International Travel, Tested by Experts

These are the top-tested soft and hardside carry-ons, checked bags, duffels and more to take on your next adventure abroad.

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

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable spinner.

Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Best Carry-On

Away the carry-on.

Best Checked

Briggs & riley 31-inch baseline extra large expandable spinner.

July Checked Luggage

Best for Frequent Travelers

Travelpro platinum elite softside expandable checked luggage.

Best Budget

Delsey paris helium dlx softside expandable luggage.

Best Rolling Duffel

L.l.bean adventure rolling duffle bag, 135l.

Best Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Best Weekender

Calpak luka duffel.

As you start planning your next trip abroad, looking into hotels, flights and tourist attractions, don't forget that the key to a smooth travel experience is a great piece of luggage. When you're traveling internationally, it's especially important to bring a suitcase that complies with airline restrictions, is comfortable to carry or roll throughout your journey and has plenty of room for all of your belongings and your souvenirs for the trip home.

This top-performing suitcase from our best overall luggage brand Samsonite has repeatedly stood out in the Textiles Lab's and our consumers' tests and is priced under $200 — an incredible value. The hardside carry-on is made of polypropylene and weighs in at just 6.5 pounds, which is one of the lightest bags we've tested, so it won't eat too much into the lower weight restrictions set by many international airlines.

I was impressed by how easy it was to lift and roll the bag around, even when filled with our standard packing load. Despite the lightweight design, this carry-on is spacious with a butterfly-opening, unfolding into two primary compartments for easy packing, and there's an additional one inch of expandable storage with the pull of a zipper.

During our Lab evaluations, we liked how easy it was to pull the bag through our luggage obstacle course. While some testers said the telescopic handle felt a bit loose, the suitcase earned high scores for maneuverability, with testers sharing feedback including "very smooth rolling" and "the wheels moved really well." The material was more prone to scratching than some others we evaluated, but the suitcase proved to be durable overall in our drop tests, resisting major damage.

Listed dimensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10" | Weight: 6.5 lbs | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

With more than 34,000 five-star ratings, t his best-selling suitcase from Amazon Basics is loved by both real users and our consumer testers who say it's worth every penny. Made of lightweight ABS plastic, the hardside suitcase isn't quite as durable as those made of polycarbonate, but the material helps to keep the cost low — under $100 — so I recommend it for someone shopping on a budget.

During our Textiles Lab evaluations for durability, there were some noticeable markings in our scratch tests, but we were impressed by how well the bag maintained its shape after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. Amazon reviewers who regularly use the suitcases say they hold up over time, as well.

When our consumer testers rolled the suitcase through our obstacle course, they were wowed by how smooth the wheels were, with one describing the bag as "very easy to move." We gave the carry-on high scores for packability, as we were able to pack our standard load of belongings (clothing, accessories and toiletries) for a short trip inside with room to spare. Plus, there are interior zippered mesh pockets for easy organization, and the bag expands up to one extra inch for additional packing space.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 14.9" x 10" | Weight: 7.3 lbs | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

One of the most popular suitcases on the market, Away's standard carry-on is definitely worth the hype . The bag is available in 11 colors, including on-trend options like green and red, along with neutral hues like gray and black.

Not only is the suitcase simple and stylish from the outside, it's also full of functional features inside to make packing for your next international trip a breeze. The bag unfolds into two separate primary compartments to fit all of your things: one fully zippered side and one with adjustable compression straps, and there are mesh pockets to stash smaller items.

Consumer testers and GH analysts alike love to travel with the Away carry-on, including one who shared, "It fit all of the clothes I needed for a long weekend. It rolled really easily and was light enough to pop in and out of the overhead bin." Testers said the telescopic handle felt flimsier than others they tried, but they were impressed with the bag overall, saying that it was easy to maneuver and roll over different types of flooring, including wood, carpet and tile. And it looked great after our drop and scratch tests, showing no major signs of damage or dents.

Listed dimensions: 9" x 13.7" x 21.7" | Weight: 8.1 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Briggs & Riley 31-inch Baseline Extra Large Expandable Spinner

The innovative design details of this softside checked bag from Briggs & Riley help to simplify packing for extended trips abroad. The bag features a unique push-button expansion system unlike any other we've evaluated , which allows you to easily expand the bag, fill it with everything you'll need and then compress it back down to its standard size.

One tester who was impressed with the amount of space in the carry-on version of the bag shared, "It fit clothing and accessories for two people for a seven-day summer vacation." And this checked bag offers more than double the packing capacity. Other innovative features include a built-in trifold garment folder for formal attire and reinforced corners for added protection.

At 15.6 pounds, the suitcase does weigh more than other models we've evaluated, but it is made with a nylon material that resisted wear and tear when I tested it in our abrasion machine. It also earned top marks in our latest round of drop testing. Along with performing well for durability, the suitcase received high scores for maneuverability, with smooth wheels and a sturdy telescopic handle.

Listed dimensions: 31" x 22" x 13.8" | Weight: 15.6 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Rolling a bag through the airport has never been easier than it is with July's classic luggage , including this spacious checked suitcase and its popular carry-on bags . One GH analyst who took the checked bag on a vacation abroad said, "I've never used a suitcase with wheels this smooth." I've personally traveled with luggage from the brand and was blown away by how effortless it was to roll the suitcases, even over carpet and concrete sidewalks.

The telescopic handle technically locks at 20 different heights to prevent it from falling down on its own, and most testers appreciated the slanted grip on the handle, sharing that it was comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver with.

Made with a polycarbonate shell, the suitcase is lightweight and durable, and the corners are reinforced with aluminum bumpers for an added level of protection. The bag held up well after being released repeatedly from our drop tester, but testers noted marks and scuffs on the surface after taking the bag on just one trip.

It boasts 80 liters of packing space and features one fully zippered compartment and one open compartment with a compression panel and Y-strap for security. Even more, it weighs just 8.3 pounds, which is similar to many of the carry-on sized bags we evaluate.

Listed dimensions: 26" x 18.75" x 11" | Weight: 8.3 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate with aluminum corners | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Travelpro luggage was created by a pilot who wanted to make bags specifically for other pilots and airline crewmembers who were always on the go. The result is a collection of highly durable, quality suitcases including the popular Platinum Elite medium checked suitcase.

Built to last, the luggage is made of heavyweight nylon material that performed well when I tested it for abrasion resistance. When I released the bag repeatedly from our drop tester, it showed no signs of damage or dents. Our testers also gave the suitcase high scores for ease of use and appreciated the sturdy feel of the telescopic handle. The suitcase does have a more traditional look, though, which some testers described as "old-fashioned," sharing that they wished it were sleeker.

Full of thoughtful and functional features, the suitcase makes packing and traveling a breeze. The bag can be unzipped to reveal one large packing compartment with compression panels that secure your belongings in place, a removable wet bag for toiletries, a large mesh zippered pocket in the lid for breathable storage and a built-in suiter to help keep more formal clothes in tip-top shape. To prevent the suitcase from tipping over when it's full, it's also designed with a unique tapered expansion system, so the bag is narrower at the top and broader at the bottom.

Listed dimensions: 25" x 18" x 11.25" | Weight: 9.8 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

While some softside luggage is bulky and pricey, this Helium DLX carry-on from Delsey is lightweight, as the name implies, and it's available for a great value. The polyester material isn't quite as durable or substantial as nylon styles we've tested, but the brand's polyester fabric has performed well overall in our abrasion tests without major wear.

Two external zippered pockets allow for easy access to travel essentials like your phone and ID, so you won't have to hold up the TSA line while scouring through your bag. While the bag unzips to expose only one main compartment for packing, it's equipped with a removable bi-fold organizer and expands by two inches for additional room. One tester said, "I love the pockets." Plus, the inner lining can be fully unzipped and removed for easy cleaning.

I personally carry luggage from Delsey and love the smooth wheels and sturdy telescopic handle, and our testers who tried Delsey's luggage found the handle to be comfortable to grip and use. However, they said the bags were more difficult to maneuver through our obstacle course than others they tested.

Listed dimensions: 12" x 17.75" x 28" | Weight: 8.4 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

A rolling duffel like this one from L.L.Bean is ideal for longer adventures abroad or for overpackers like me. The duffel isn't as structured as standard suitcases, meaning you can compress it and slide it under your bed or in a closet if you're pressed for storage space — and on the other hand, you can really fill it to the brim when you're packing. Just be careful that you're not stuffing it too much because it can be easy to exceed an airline's weight restrictions.

One GH analyst who loves to travel with this bag said that it's one of her go-to picks for family vacations. With just two wheels, our analyst said it's a little more cumbersome to maneuver than a spinner suitcase, but you also have the option to carry the bag with the padded strap.

The bag has a wide opening for easy access to everything you need inside, and outer compression straps keep everything in place. Made of durable polyester material with a reinforced base, the duffel lasts for years and years without signs of wear, according to our analyst. Plus, it's water-resistant inside and out — perfect for inevitable leaks or wet weather. If you're looking for something smaller, the brand carries a variety of sizes to meet your travel needs.

Listed dimensions: 14" x 17.25" x 32.5" | Weight: 8.8 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 1 year

When we evaluated this bag in the Textiles Lab, we were amazed by just how much we could fit inside during our packing tests. Not only did it beat out other travel backpacks we tested, it also outperformed some of our carry-ons because of its spacious interior .

The backpack has a suitcase-style opening and fully unzips to expose a highly organized interior jam-packed with zippered mesh pockets for all of your belongings. It also features a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17-inch computer.

Made of recycled nylon and polyester, the bag is durable and water-resistant. When I tested it for abrasion resistance in the Lab, there were no visible signs of wear. Details like a sternum strap, waist belt and padded mesh provide comfort and support. With backpack straps that tuck neatly inside the back of the bag and carrying straps on all sides, you can easily grab it to lift into an overhead bin.

Some online reviewers wished it was equipped with a water bottle holder and said the zippers can be finicky, but we didn't have issues with them in the Lab.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 12" x 10" | Weight: 3.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Able to hold everything you need for a weekend getaway, this weekender from Calpak was the top performer in our Textiles Lab tests. Not only is the bag totally on-trend, thanks to the puffy padded design and fashionable color options, it's also full of functional features . One tester who used it as her personal item on a long trip said, "This bag fits everything I need and more!"

A GH analyst who used the bag added, "I appreciate the well-organized interior," which includes several zippered pockets and elastic storage. Outside, there's a separate shoe compartment, additional zippered pockets and a water bottle holder. Altogether, there are nine pockets, and the spacious bag aced our packing tests.

If you're pairing it with Calpak's popular luggage , this bag has a trolley sleeve that slides right over the telescopic handle of your suitcase. One tester noted that the stitching that secured the sleeve in place started unraveling a bit after just one use. The bag is made of a smooth polyester material that's comfortable to carry and water-resistant. A tester said, "It poured while I was traveling and everything inside this bag stayed perfectly dry."

Listed dimensions: 12" x 16" x 7" | Weight: 2 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L Duffel Bag

This convertible duffel from Eagle Creek is the perfect adventure travel companion. The bag is durable, combining polyester and nylon for a water-resistant material that also held up well when tested for abrasion resistance . One GH analyst who travels with this duffel said that it still looks great after years of regular rough and tough use.

It's structured and maintains its shape for easy packing, but the duffel can be compressed to bring inside of your suitcase as an extra bag or for compact storage at home. According to our testers and GH analyst, the zippers have large pull tabs that are easy to use, and, according to the brand, they're covered in water-resistant strips for the ultimate protection in wet weather.

The duffel features a reinforced top handle and grab handles along the sides for carrying, and there are adjustable backpack straps for hands-free use that can be connected for an additional carrying strap or tucked inside the bag. Some online reviewers said the backpack straps are on the thinner side and weren't as comfortable as other traditional travel backpacks, but they appreciated the convenient option.

Listed dimensions: 11.5" x 23.25" x 11" | Weight: 2.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

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

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Product Reviews

The Best Top-Loading Washing Machines

The Best Mini Fridges

The Best Gifts for 14-Year-Old Teenagers

The Best Gifts for 12-Year-Old Boys

The Best Lawn Edgers

Our Honest Review of Rothy's Shoes

The Best Weber Grills

The Best Gifts for 12-Year-Old Girls

The Best Mattresses

The Best Walking Shoes for Women

The Best Dog Life Jackets

Best suitcase with Removable Wheels – True Travel Companion in 2023

We may earn commissions when you make qualifying purchases through links or recommendations on our website. However, this does not impact the price you pay for the products or services.

Have you ever thought about why some suitcases have wheels that you can take off ? Well, here’s a surprising answer:

“You can turn your carry-on bag into a smaller personal bag just by removing its wheels.”

It’s a really clever idea that can help travelers in lots of useful ways. This kind of innovation makes traveling easier for everyone.

Travelers always prefer suitcase with durable wheels. Thankfully, this innovative design allows for seamless transitions between airports, crowded streets, or any other uneven terrain while also providing the option to remove the wheels when they’re not required.

You can keep more money in your pocket by saving baggage fees if you get the best luggage with removable wheels – around $80 to $200 for a round trip – by not paying to check in a bag.

Furthermore, luggage with detachable wheels tends to be highly durable and constructed with quality materials, ensuring your belongings are safe and secure throughout your journey. So, become a smarter traveler by investing in luggage with detachable wheels, and you’ll experience an exceptional level of convenience and efficiency on all of your future adventures.

Here is a list of some best luggage with Removable wheels

Best Luggage with Removable wheels

– Over All Best-

VERAGE Expandable duffel

• Easy fold design
• Detachable wheels
• Two easy-access front pockets

– Convertible Luggage-

Take OFF Luggage 18 inch

• Exceptional Durability
• Lightweight
• Can fit under the seat

Best Detachable Wheels Luggage | In-depth Analysis

1- verage expandable foldable luggage ba g – best luggage with detachable wheels, specifications.

• Weight: 7lbs
• Volume: 36L
• Dimension: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• Wheels: 2 roller wheels
• Luggage type: Carry-on

The VERAGE Expandable Foldable Luggage is the perfect companion for all your travel needs. With an easy-to-fold design and a large capacity, this bag is sure to be a great addition to any journey. In the process of looking for a suitcase that fits the definition of Removable wheels , this was our first choice.

Verage Expandable has the capacity to hold more stuff for your long holidays and its robust shell supports even the heaviest of items without collapsing or dumping. It comes with detachable wheels that won’t come off easily. The medium 24-inch bag expands into a large 28-inch , giving you plenty of space to store all your belongings.

In addition, the double spinner wheels make maneuverability effortless while the two front zipper pockets provide quick access to small items. This stylish and practical suitcase is ideal for keeping all your items safe, secure, and organized during long trips.

• Expanded size may not fit some airline regulations for carry-on luggage
• Wheels may not handle certain terrain types well such as gravel or sand

Hurry up, the stock is low! Grab your removable-wheeled suitcase before it runs out.

2- Take OFF Luggage 18-inch Hardshell Carry On – Best Convertible with removable wheels

• Weight: 5.39 lbs
• Dimension: 8.5 x 14 x 18 inches
• Wheels: 4 wheels

Take OFF Luggage Carry-On Suitcase that Converts into Underseater Luggage with Removable Spinner Wheels is an ideal solution for travelers looking for a way to save money on costly carry-on fees. It features a removable wheel system and fits easily under the seat on the aircraft.

The hard outer shell of the TakeOFF Luggage suitcase is designed to keep your items safe from damage and protect them during transport. Additionally, you can pack more into this suitcase without worrying about its shape being compromised.

This luggage bag also has a built-in lock which allows TSA authorities to safely unlock and relock it if they need to inspect it during travel. This ensures that any unwanted access is prevented and keeps your belongings secure .

Like most suitcases, the TakeOFF Luggage has weight limits which must be kept in mind when packing items inside the case for travel. Exceeding these limits may cause difficulties when traveling and could result in having to pay additional fees at airports or train stations.

Whe We Love It:

We love this suitcase because it can transform your carry-on luggage into a personal item, helping passengers avoid baggage fees. Now you can bring two carry-ons on your flight without any inconvenience.

• It has Size Limitations, meaning you won’t be able to fit as much as you would in a full-sized carry-on suitcase if you need extra items for long trips.
• Take Off does not offer enough compartments or pockets for organizing smaller items within the suitcase itself.

Tips on how to maintain and extend the life of your luggage with Removable wheels

Taking proper care of your luggage with detachable wheels can significantly extend its lifespan, allowing you to enjoy its convenience and functionality for many travels to come.

One valuable tip for maintaining your wheeled luggage is to make a habit of inspecting the wheels for any signs of wear and tear or debris , especially after a long trip.

Cleaning the wheels regularly with a damp cloth will help to prevent clogging while lubricating them with a silicone-based spray can provide a smooth, effortless glide.

Furthermore, being mindful of the surfaces you roll your luggage on can significantly reduce the strain on the wheels; avoid using them on rough or uneven terrain, opting for a gentler, smoother surface whenever possible. Here’s when the benefit of having luggage with removable wheels comes into play: when you have to roll your luggage on rough terrains, you can detach the wheels and carry it to avoid any damage.

Additionally, invest in high-quality replacement wheels that can be easily installed so you can continue to use your luggage even if the wheels start to show excessive signs of wear.

By taking these simple steps to care for your detachable wheeled luggage, you are not only ensuring a longer life for your travel companion but also a more enjoyable and hassle-free journey for yourself.

Related: 2-Wheel Vs. 4-Wheel Luggage Which Is Better Option – travelbagsclub

Final Words:

To summarize, a suitcase with retractable wheels is a terrific asset for travelers. It can transition between being simple to roll on flat surfaces and a compact carry-on for tough terrain. This clever design allows you to save money on baggage fees, move around more conveniently, and keep your belongings safe.

Having a bag with retractable wheels means you’re prepared for every type of travel situation, proving that practicality and creativity can work together to make your journeys more enjoyable.

Content writer, website developer

Maida Sajjad is a content writer and professional chef. She loves to travel with her family to different destinations and enjoys cooking different cuisines. Maida is always looking for new challenges and loves to learn about new cultures.

Similar Posts

How Big Is a 28-inch Suitcase? – Complete 2024 Guide

Choosing the luggage for your trip, whether it is for business or leisure, can be quite a challenge. The size of your luggage is a factor to consider when planning your travel arrangements. If you’re going on a journey where you need to check in your luggage, a 28-inch suitcase offers packing space. It is…

7 Best Rolling suitcases with the most durable wheels in 2024

Are you looking for a rolling suitcase or a luggage set but unsure which one has the reliable wheels? Nowadays wheel durability is a factor to keep in mind when making your choice. It can vary based on the manufacturer and materials used. Some brands use long-lasting materials, for their wheels while others may opt…

2-Wheel Vs. 4-Wheel Luggage Which Is the Better Option

Whether you are a frequent traveler or you don’t travel often you need luggage. It can be confusing whenever you need to buy new durable wheeled luggage. With the rapid evolution of technology in today’s world, the luggage industry is also noticing significant changes and growth. There are different advanced options available now as compared to…

• Twitter / X
• Readers' Choice
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Travel Guides

USA TODAY 10Best

10 best weekender bags for your next getaway, according to a travel pro

May 27, 2024 // By Jean Chen Smith

By Jean Chen Smith May 27, 2024

— Our editors and readers independently select what you see on 10Best. When you buy through a link on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

As a travel writer, good gear is essential. I've tested everything from travel strollers to pet carriers , but my most useful and favorite type of luggage is a weekender bag. Known for versatility and functionality, a weekender is an evolution — or grown-up, sophisticated version — of the original duffel bag. (PS: The name "duffel" comes from Duffel, Belgium, where sailors used thick fabric to make seabags in the late 17th century.)

Today's weekenders are available in various sizes, shapes, and colors. Still, its purpose is essentially the same as its name implies: A weekender bag is meant to hold all your items for a weekend trip, plus it can double as a personal item that fits under the seat on airplanes.

Reliable weekender bags should hold several days' worth of clothing, have multiple compartments to store and organize your accessories, and be durable, preferably made with waterproof and stain-resistant fabric. Depending on your travel needs, ask yourself what size weekender you'll need and what fabric you prefer. Some bags in the marketplace look super chic but aren't long-lasting, making them less practical.

Advertisement Advertisement

Additional details to look for in a good weekender bag include removable shoulder straps, exterior pockets for quick access to your travel paperwork, and whether it has a space for your laptop (if that's a non-negotiable).

Although there are many offerings, here are 10 of the best weekender bags for making quick trips and travel a breeze.

Best weekender bag for women: Patricia Nash Designs Avola Trolley

The Avola Trolley is a beautiful statement piece for women who want to travel in style with ease. The feminine patina-coated pattern is easy to spot whether you're on a road trip or checking luggage. This weekender can also be used as a wheeled duffel when traversing airports and hotel lobbies, which makes it super pragmatic. The retractable handle is easily adjustable to several different heights, too.

The interior offers multiple pockets for organizing your travel essentials, while the exterior offers both a front and back slip pocket so you can easily access airline tickets and vouchers while on the move. Caught in the rain? No need to fret: It's durable and water-resistant.

Best weekender bag for men: Backcountry All Around 60L Duffel

We chose the no-nonsense All Around 60L Duffel from Backcountry as the best pick for men because its durable, heavy-duty fabric withstands all weather conditions. Whether camping, on a road trip, or just heading on a weekend jaunt, this duffel offers 60 liters of capacity, allowing space for bulky gear, clothes, and other essentials.

Two interior mesh pockets store your smaller items, while the main compartment boasts a built-in lining to keep your belongings dry. The large side pocket is an excellent area to store dirty clothing or shoes, keeping them separate from the main section.

While most duffel bags don't have a base, the All Around has a protected foundation, which is helpful when packing fragile objects. You can wear it as a backpack (great for hiking) or use it as a handheld (great for airports). Another reason to love it: Backcountry offers a limited lifetime warranty on the bag.

Best weekender bag with shoe compartment: Béis The Weekender

The iconic Béis The Weekender is the brand's best-selling bag and with good reason. It comes in nine sumptuous colors, and it's lightweight and functional. The wire frame and double-zip opening resemble an old-fashioned Gladstone bag, allowing the entire bag to open for quick and easy access. The interior boasts a padded laptop sleeve, a large zip pocket, and two slip pockets for arranging all your travel belongings.

The separate bottom compartment opens up and is ideal for storing shoes and toiletries. Added benefits are the trolley sleeve, which slides right over your luggage handle, removable shoulder straps, and a zippered front pocket. The brand offers additional add-ons like a dopp kit or packing cubes to match your corresponding color.

Best leather weekender bag: Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Weekender

Whether heading to the Hamptons or SoCal, look sleek carrying the Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Weekender , which comes in three alluring colors. The price tag is a steal for a practical and fashionable bag that makes travel a breeze.

This weekender is made of 100% top-grain Italian leather and lined with cotton twill, which is easy to clean. Three zippered compartments keep your belongings organized, while the main compartment is roomy and offers three slip pockets for carrying cell phones and other supplies.

It has a removable shoulder strap so you can wear it as a crossbody and a luggage sleeve, so it can rest on your suitcase, making your journey a cinch. We also love that the brand works with sustainable factories to promote ethical business practices.

Best canvas weekender bag: Paravel Weekender

The extremely chic Paravel Weekender is one of my favorites for a country-themed getaway . It looks like a picnic basket, except it's made of heavy-duty, stain-resistant EcoCraft Canvas and packs a ton of life's necessities when on the move. The handles and trim detailing are made of recycled vegan leather to support sustainability.

Two zippered pockets on the inside help keep things organized, while the main compartment can fit a laptop up to 15 inches. You can also personalize your bag with your initials and add a colorful cabana strap (sold separately). Other winning highlights are that it's TSA-compliant and fits most overhead bins.

Who was voted the best? : Best Luxury RV Resort (10Best Readers' Choice Awards 2024)

Best backpack weekender bag: Monos Metro Backpack

As a frequent flier, I can attest to the convenience of backpacks when maneuvering through airports. They help me keep my posture upright while promoting even weight distribution, so I can carry slightly more than a tote or crossbody. After hours of travel, a backpack like the Monos Metro Backpack can save the day.

Made of water-resistant nylon twill and vegan leather trims, this bag provides ample space to store clothing, books, and shoes. It also comes loaded with pockets to streamline organization: The interior features a zippered pouch, two pockets, and a large sleeve. A separate 15-inch laptop compartment is also in the back of the bag.

The Metro comes with the Metro Classic Kit, which is affixed to the backpack's body, allowing more storage space. It can also be used as a small dopp kit or makeup bag when removed. I find it useful for holding chargers, vitamins, and trial-size toiletries.

Best laptop weekender bag: Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel

Made of recycled ripstop material and coated with laminate for water resistance, the Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack makes travel easy — whether on an extended vacation or a quick weekend getaway. Weighing less than 3 pounds, it's a lightweight, multifunctional option for those needing ample laptop space (up to 17 inches) and lots of room for everything else, including clothing, toiletries, and shoes.

We like the Terra for its adjustable padded shoulder straps for comfort, luggage trolley sleeve, and multiple interior pocket options. Another helpful detail is the compression straps with buckles, which allow you to squeeze in a little extra when packing.

Best small weekender bag: State Franklin Weekender

I love the State Franklin Weekender for its classic style and versatility. The brand is known for reliable luggage and travel bags, so it's no surprise this makes our list. Minimalists love the generous-sized main compartment and interior pockets to store small essentials. Although it doesn't have a separate zippered compartment for your shoes, it does feature a shoe pocket.

Two exterior zippered pockets allow easy access to documents, chargers, earbuds, and more. It also has a removable shoulder strap, so you can wear it multiple ways. The only downside is that we'd like to see more colors in this super functional bag.

Who was voted the best? : Best Rental Car Company (10Best Readers' Choice Awards 2024)

Best expandable weekender bag: Longchamp Le Pliage Original Expandable Travel Bag

What could be more convenient than an expandable bag that caters to all your vacation needs? Look no further than Longchamp's Le Pliage Original Expandable Travel Bag , which ticks off all the short- and long-term travel boxes. This smartly designed bag has a middle zip insert that can expand from 30 liters to 50 liters. When empty, the bag weighs less than 2 pounds and is made of water and stain-resistant nylon.

Additional perks include the water-resistant interior lining and a removable and adjustable crossbody strap. Plus, it folds down flat when not in use. I highly recommend this bag for its versatility. Still, one thing to note is that it only has one small interior pocket, so if you need more organization, compression or packing cubes usually do the trick.

Best extra-large weekender bag: Baggallini Deluxe Fifth Avenue Weekender

I like Baggallini's Deluxe Fifth Avenue Weekender for its spacious interior with a padded laptop pocket (it holds laptops up to 16 inches). The lid-top zipper opening allows easy access when packing and grabbing possessions on the fly. Two external zip pockets are great for holding passports, paperwork, and other go-to items, making it a breeze to zip through airport security.

The second compartment at the bottom of the bag is an excellent solution for storing soiled clothes or shoes. Another winning feature is the removable crossbody strap, which offers several carrying options.

Best pet carriers for dogs, cats, and furry friends of all shapes and sizes

Read More »

About Jean Chen Smith

Jean Chen Smith has a love and passion for travel, but above all, she believes in packing light and efficiently.

Read more about Jean Chen Smith here.

Connect with Jean via: Website | Facebook | Instagram

Also Recently Published

Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best cooler bags of 2024.

Carry your beverages and picnic to the beach in cool styles.

The Best Cooler Bags

Getty Images

Keeping snacks and drinks cold when you're on a road trip, at the beach or car camping is essential. Depending on what you want to pack, where you're going to be and how much you need to take, there are different cooler bags to meet your needs.

The right cooler bag can save you money, keep the kids happy with fresh snacks and offer convenience. U.S. News researched online retailers, travel industry review sites and more to come up with this selection of the best cooler bags.

Best Overall: ICEMULE Classic Medium 15L

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best for Beach: Alameda Mesh Tote Beach Bag

Best insulation: arctic zone titan deep freeze cooler, best small: igloo retro square lunch bag, best wheeled: coleman chiller 42-can soft cooler with wheels, best backpack: everlasting comfort beach cooler backpack, best collapsible: clevermade tahoe collapsible cooler bag, best tote: creative green life jumbo insulated cooler bag, best durable: yeti hopper flip 18 soft cooler.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

Courtesy of ICEMULE

Capacity: Up to 16 cans with ice or 24 cans with no ice

What sets it apart: This soft-sided cooler from ICEMULE is rugged, versatile, waterproof and collapsible. It's perfect for the beach, river, lake or pool since it floats. The compressible zipperless design makes it easy to pack for travel. You can sling it over your shoulder to leave your hands free to carry your beach or camping gear. Your food and drinks will stay cold for up to 24 hours with this cooler. The ICEMULE Classic comes in three other sizes and a range of bright colors.

Travelers appreciate: Many reviewers comment that the bag is lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport.

Price: $84.95 or less

Courtesy of Alameda

Capacity: Up to 12 cans

What sets it apart: This two-in-one cooler bag by Alameda is perfect for the beach. It has a detachable insulated cooler section on the bottom to keep things cold and a mesh section on top that's perfect for towels, sunscreen and more. The mesh is made from environmentally friendly and sand-resistant nylon. This bag features six pockets and a zipper closure on top to keep items secure.

Travelers appreciate: Beachgoers praise this bag for keeping items cold and keeping sand out.

Price: $34 or less

Courtesy of Arctic Zone

Capacity: Size options range from 9 to 48 cans

What sets it apart: This totable hard-body cooler bag includes a SmartShelf to keep crushable items on top. It keeps beverages and snacks cold with Deep Freeze Performance Insulation and has a zipperless top that flips open so you can access items quickly and easily. The bag is easy to keep clean since the exterior is made from water- and stain-repellent material and the interior hard liner is removable.

Travelers appreciate: This Amazon's Choice product has a 4.6-star rating from more than 48,000 ratings. Product owners appreciate the zipperless lid since zippers can break, as well as the removable liner that is easy to clean.

Price: $62.99 or less for 30-can size

Courtesy of Igloo

Capacity: Up to 9 cans

What sets it apart: This cute, colorful and compact cooler is perfect for taking lunch or drinks on outings. It has a front zippered pocket to hold things like keys, a phone or sunscreen, as well as a lightweight insulated liner to keep snacks and drinks cold. The top handle and shoulder strap make it easily portable. This small cooler bag comes in a retro neon color combination or Care Bears design.

Travelers appreciate: The nostalgic Care Bears print is a hit with recent reviewers, as well as the fact that it's easy to wipe clean.

Price: $29.99 or less

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Courtesy of Coleman

Capacity: Up to 42 cans

What sets it apart: With durable wheels and a telescopic handle, this Coleman cooler can easily travel to and from your destination. It features leak-resistant welded seams, front and inside pockets for additional storage, and a hard plastic liner that can be removed for easy cleaning. Your goodies can stay cold for up to 12 or more hours, thanks to the TempLock insulation. This cooler is also eco-friendly with recycled exterior fabric. Coleman also has options in smaller sizes that don't have wheels, as well as a backpack style.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers say it keeps items cold for many hours and the wheels are convenient, though some caution that the wheels don't do as well on sand or rough terrain.

Price: $64.99 or less

Courtesy of Everlasting Comfort

Capacity: Up to 54 cans and 4 pounds of ice

What sets it apart: For an easy-to-carry cooler with lots of room, this backpack cooler from Everlasting is a great option. Made from PVA and insulated foam, this bag will keep your food hot or cold for up to 24 hours. Stash napkins and utensils in the front zippered pocket and wine or water bottles in the side pockets. It features a leakproof design and heavy-duty bottom, plus padded, adjustable straps.

Travelers appreciate: The spacious storage and leakproof material were favorite features of customers.

Price: $49.99 or less

Courtesy of CleverMade

Capacity: Size options range from 24 to 50 cans

What sets it apart: Not only is this CleverMade cooler collapsible, but it also has top handles and shoulder straps for easy carrying. Its solid, sturdy base is designed to hold up to between 30 and 55 pounds (depending on the cooler size). It is made from recycled polyester with a durable wire frame. This cooler is lightweight and stores easily since it folds down.

Travelers appreciate: The features that reviewers praise the most are its anti-leak material, effectiveness at keeping things cool and collapsibility.

Price: $39.99 or less for 30-can size

Courtesy of Creative Green Life

Capacity: Up to 30 cans

What sets it apart: For a tote bag that keeps things cool, this bag by Creative Green Life fits the bill. Its extra-large capacity with zipper-close top and shoulder handles make it easy to bring plenty of snacks and drinks for your outing. It has a leak-resistant liner and machine-washable, stain-resistant fabric. The handles can be adjusted to carry food either horizontally or vertically. With the thermal foam insulation, your food can stay hot or cold for eight or more hours.

Travelers appreciate: Customers love that this bag keeps food consistently cold and is easy to store, making it great for the beach, the park or grocery shopping.

Price: $34.99 or less

Courtesy of YETI

Capacity: Up to 16 cans with ice or 30 cans with no ice

What sets it apart: The material of this sturdy YETI cooler is designed to protect the bag from punctures, UV rays, and mildew both inside and out. This rugged cooler is ready for any adventure with a high-performance zipper, a leakproof construction and closed-cell rubber foam insulation. If you want a smaller cooler than the 18, the cooler comes in sizes 8 and 12 as well. A Rambler Bottle Sling can be attached using the Hitchpoint Grid system. For keeping things on ice for one person, YETI also makes a lunch box and lunch bag .

Travelers appreciate: Shoppers who purchased this cooler bag recently appreciated the quality and size of the cooler, noting that the ice did not melt for hours. Some felt the zipper was difficult to open and close.

Price: $300 or less

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. To ensure the contents of your cooler bag are kept properly cold, here are some tips for how to effectively use ice:

• Add the right type of ice: YETI suggests using a combination of block ice and cubed ice, since block ice melts more slowly and cubed ice cools items faster. YETI also makes a YETI ICE hard ice pack for even cooler temps.
• Layer the ice correctly: The ideal way to fill your cooler is to put ice on the bottom and the top with your food and drinks in between (as this Arctic Zone video demonstrates).
• Use the right amount of ice: Be sure not to overfill your cooler with ice, as the lid must be able to close tightly. The amount of ice compared to cooler contents may depend on your cooler and what works for you: Arctic Zone recommends a 50-50 ratio of ice and food, for example, while YETI suggests filling two-thirds of your cooler with ice.

In addition to getting the ice right, there are some other ways you can optimize your cooler's performance.

• Pre-chill the cooler bag: Starting with a cool bag is a great trick. The Igloo website recommends pre-chilling your bag overnight with a bag of ice inside to maximize ice retention.
• Add cold drinks: Adding drinks that are already cold will help with ice retention, according to ICEMULE. Frozen water bottles are a great option too.
• Keep the lid closed: Be sure to keep the lid shut (and locked, if that's an option) to keep the cold air in.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to cooler bags. She often uses a cooler bag for road trips, hikes and days at the beach. Kolberg used her experience as a frequent traveler and research expertise to curate this list of top cooler bags.

You might also be interested in:

• Beach Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• The Best Beach Bags
• The Best Beach Wagons
• The Ultimate Camping Checklist

Road Trip Essentials

The 26 best beach resorts in the world.

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Top things to do in florida.

Gwen Pratesi May 31, 2024

The Best Travel Neck Pillows

Timothy J. Forster and Amanda Norcross May 30, 2024

Alissa Grisler and Amanda Norcross May 29, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Santa Barbara

John Rodwan and Suzanne Mason May 29, 2024

Top Pride Parades and Celebrations

Suzanne Mason May 28, 2024

The Best Underseat Luggage

Rachael Hood May 28, 2024

The Best Miami Boat Tours

Gwen Pratesi May 28, 2024

The Best Travel Purses

Rachael Hood May 24, 2024

The Best Beach Games

Gwen Pratesi May 24, 2024

The Best Branson Shows

Carrie A. Back May 23, 2024

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Trends + Deals We Love

Nordstrom’s Half-yearly Sale Ends Soon — Shop Last-minute Deals on Tumi, Madewell, and More Up to 50% Off

Snag carry-ons, comfy sneakers, and resort-ready dresses from $37.

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

As a shopping writer , it’s my job to monitor retailers for the latest and greatest deals, and occasionally, some sales only happen once or twice a year (what I’d call the true jackpots). These rare sales are always on my radar. 

Nordstrom’s Half-Yearly Sale ends on Sunday, June 2, so I rounded up the 15 best last-minute travel deals to shop before items sell out or prices go back up. Save on luggage, sneakers, resort-ready clothing, and comfy activewear from Tumi , Sorel , Zella , and Madewell , while discounts are up to 50 percent off. 

Keep scrolling to see what’s worth buying at this twice-a-year sale. Prices start at $37.  

15 Last-Minute Travel Deals at Nordstrom’s Half-Yearly Sale

• Tumi 19 Degree International Expandable Spinner Carry-On , $525 (originally $750)
• Sorel Out N About Waterproof Low Top Sneaker , $66 (originally $110)
• Zella Soft Agile Wide-Leg Pants , $38 (originally $69)
• Nordstrom Pleated Maxi Dress , $70 (originally $139)
• Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Nylon Duffle Bag , $279 (originally $350)
• FitFlop Lulu Flip Flop , from $68 (originally $90)
• Tumi Tammim Nylon Cosmetic Bag , $139 (originally $175)
• Steve Madden Elsin Sneaker , $75 (originally $100)
• Zella All Sport High Waist Shorts , $37 (originally $49)
• Zella Studio Luxe Crop Tank , $42 (originally $55)
• Tumi 22-Inch 19 Degrees International Expandable Spinner Carry-On , from $525 (originally $750)
• Longchamp Small Boxtrot Canvas and Leather Crossbody Bag , $396 (originally $565)
• Astr the Label Tie-Back Puff-Sleeve Midi Dress , from $60 (originally $99)
• Tumi Large Linz Carryall Tote Bag , $555 (originally $795)
• Madewell Midi Shirtdress , from $90 (originally $128)

Tumi 19 Degree International Expandable Spinner Carry-On

Before embarking on summer trips, invest in a new carry-on suitcase like this expandable spinner from Tumi. It features easy-to-maneuver wheels, a TSA-approved lock, a built-in USB port for charging your tech devices, and plenty of internal pockets for staying organized. It’s made from a durable, recycled polycarbonate that’s virtually damage-proof and has a smooth telescoping handle. 

Sorel Out N About Waterproof Low Top Sneaker

Wherever your travels take you, one must-have is a pair of reliable sneakers that are comfortable and best-case scenario, waterproof, like this low-top option from Sorel. One shopper said they were “the best purchase ever” since they could navigate steep, muddy hills on a recent trip without falling. Another reviewer said the leather shoes were “comfy right out of the box.”  

Zella Soft Agile Wide-Leg Pants

Comfort is key on flights and during long car rides, and these wide-leg Zella pants may just become your new on-the-go outfit. They’re “delightfully soft,” per one shopper, who called them great for lounging, exercising, and running errands. They’re also easy to pack since they don’t wrinkle, according to another reviewer who also deemed the style “very flattering.” 

Nordstrom Pleated Maxi Dress

Be prepared for warm-weather outings and dinners with low-lift outfits like this Nordstrom pleated maxi . The sleeveless dress features adjustable straps, a scoop neckline, and accordion pleats for movement. While the style is unlined, one shopper said the fabric was “heavier than [they] anticipated” and “really cute.” 

Keep scrolling for more last-minute deals to shop at Nordstrom’s Half-Yearly Sale before it ends on June 2. 

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Nylon Duffle Bag

Fitflop lulu flip flop, steve madden elsin sneaker, zella studio luxe crop tank.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Shop More T+L-Approved Picks

Related Articles

Passenger rips wheels off suitcase to avoid paying low-fare carrier's outrageous fee

T hese days, airlines will do anything to make money – especially low-fare carriers that sell ridiculously inexpensive tickets and then try to make it up by charging for everything from assigned seating, printing your boarding pass, pre-boarding, water and of course, luggage. RELATED: Don’t Fly Frontier Airlines Unless You Know This

The fee that I'd say gets passengers most irate is the one some airlines require for use of the overhead bin. Passengers think they’re saving money on cheap airfare and then they get hit at the gate for trying to bring their carry-on bag on the plane. If you wait until the last minute to pay, some airlines charge up to $99 just to use the overhead bin. That’s sometimes twice as much as someone paid for their ticket.

Then there are budget travelers who end up on the news for going berserk because they didn’t read the fine print of their fare which might state, for example, that you can only bring a personal item on the plane and it has to fit underneath the seat in front of you.

You may have seen some crazy stories of passengers getting arrested here in the U.S., usually flying Frontier or Spirit Airlines, for flipping out on the gate agents for making them either pay extra fees or not board. It turns out, the gate agents earn commission for every passenger they get to pay the hefty fee. No wonder they are such sticklers and sometimes dishonest about it. I guess it’s all about the Benjamins for them.

In 2022, Shaun Hover broke his skateboard at the Spirit Airlines gate because they were trying to charge him $89 dollars, saying it was technically longer than their “personal item” dimensions. So he stomped the middle of the board with his foot, folded it in half, and tossed it into the carry-on bin to show that it fit. The video, which you can watch here , was shared with the warning: “Don’t fly with Spirit Airlines.”

Watch the video here .

Unfortunately, this type of thing happens all over the world, including in Spain. In a viral video that you can watch here , a passenger rips the wheels off his tiny suitcase so it will fit flush in the airline’s baggage sizer. This was so he could avoid having to check it in with Ryanair and save €70 ($75 USD).

This wasn’t the first time and it won't be the last a passenger on a European low-fare carrier destroys their luggage to avoid excess baggage fees. The viral video, which you can watch here , is of an Easy Jet passenger from August 2023. The man can be seen ripping the wheels and the handle off of his small suitcase in order to avoid excess fees.

Watch the video here.

FYI: Here are the bag dimensions of two of the most popular ultra low-fare carriers in the U.S. and Europe:

Frontier Airlines

Personal items can be no larger than 14” tall, 18” wide, and 8” long.

Spirit Airlines

Personal items must be 18 x 14 x 8 in (45 x 35 x 20 cm) or smaller.

Fares include one small personal bag which can be brought on board, such as a handbag or laptop bag measuring 40x20x25cm (15.7 x 7.8 x 9.8 in).

One small cabin bag per passenger, with maximum dimensions of 45 x 36 x 20 cm (17 x 14 x 8 in)

Reading and calculating all these dimensions will make your head spin. That’s why I appreciate airports like Seattle (SEA) that show all the airline’s required baggage dimensions since it’s not universal. See embedded photo below.

That’s why we recommend this bag when flying low-fare carriers. It's easier to just save yourself all the hassle and headache.

KEEP READING

• How to save money with a secret third carry-on

• How to use your wireless headphones to watch in-flight movies

• 10 airport security hacks every traveler should know

• How to get the best coach seat on the plane

• The sleep hack every traveler needs to know

• Never get your valuables stolen on the beach

Want more travel news, tips and deals? Sign up to  Johnny Jet’s free newsletter  and check out these popular posts:  The Travel Gadget Flight Attendants Never Leave Home Without and  12 Ways to Save Money on Baggage Fees . Follow Johnny Jet on MSN ,  Facebook, Instagram ,  Pinterest , and  YouTube  for all of my travel posts.

• lol Badge Feed
• win Badge Feed
• trending Badge Feed

Browse links

• © 2024 BuzzFeed, Inc
• Consent Preferences
• Accessibility Statement

Beauty + Personal Care

Sports + Fitness

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

Stop — You’re Not Done Packing Your Suitcase Without These 29 Travel Products

Wait a second — I think you forgot this portable charger and foot hammock that are basically *essential* for traveling.

BuzzFeed Staff

1. An airplane seat back organizer  because 1) those airplane pockets are so NOT elastic and all they can hold is a barf bag, and 2) think about germs from all the people who have been there before you. Slip this over the tray in front of you, and you can store your snacks, drinks (a major plus), and even your laptop to make your flight as convenient as possible!

Promising review: "Very useful especially when traveling with kids . Provided easy access and storage to things like water bottle, hand sanitizer, snacks, wipes, headphones. I didn't have to access my carry-on." — JJ

Get it from Amazon for $29.99 .

2. A travel cupholder  since you just haaad to get your coffee fix, even though boarding ends in five minutes. Instead of running to the gate with a latte in one hand, spilling everywhere, and your uncooperative luggage in the other, just slide this onto your suitcase handle and place your cup inside. It features two cup holders and a slim back pocket perfect for safely stowing your passport or phone!

Reviewers say it's ideal for a suitcase that can roll on four wheels! If you have a suitcase that has to tilt while it rolls, just be careful if the drinks are open at the top.

Promising review: "This cup holder is perfect! It helps me a lot! Last time I took a plane with a suitcase and a cup of coffee, when it was my turn to check my passport and ticket, the coffee cup fell to the ground and coffee spilled. It was a nightmare! This time I bought this cup holder! I don't have to worry about where my cup and phone are! I can free my hands to do other things. I love it so much! Hope you love it too." — Philip

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+  (available in 25 colors).

3. An  Apple AirTag  to stow in your luggage, wallet, and purse in case you misplace it, because there's nothing worse than reaching your destination with your essentials nowhere to be found. It connects to the Find My app so you can track your belongings instead of assuming the worst. You know what they say: An Apple AirTag a day keeps the stress away.

BuzzFeed Shopping editor  Elizabeth Lilly raves about them. In her own words: 

"Storytime: After traveling last summer carry-on-only, and being a person who tries to carry on whenever possible, I finally bought a couple of Apple AirTags during Black Friday sales. And I am SO grateful I did. My normal carry-on bag was too big to fit the Lufthansa luggage requirements (and BOY, do they check that!), so I had to check my bags for a December 2022 trip to Vienna and back from Prague (with a layover in Frankfurt). My bag didn't make it onto the plane in Frankfurt, and once I landed in Newark, New Jersey, I pulled up the app on my phone and saw that yes, my backpack AirTag was indeed with me, but my suitcase AirTag was still in Germany . 

"The AirTag also helped me track FedEx's delivery of the suitcase to my parents' house, where I was spending the holidays immediately after my Europe trip ended. I was even able to see it on a highway less than an hour's drive from my parents' house. TL;DR: I think AirTags are very much a worthwhile investment if you travel a few times a year. And I'm not the only one who thinks so."

Get a four-pack from Amazon for $79  (also available in a single-pack for $24.99 ).

4. A  digital luggage scale  so you'll never have to experience the pain of shelling out money to pay a fee because your suitcase was a few pounds too heavy (*cries*). Just hook this onto the handle of your luggage and lift it for an accurate reading before you get to the airport.

You can switch between pound and kilogram measurements. 

Promising review:  " Works great, a must-have when flying. Very accurate scale. Easy to read with the light on it. It's a must if you have a wife like mine who loves to shop for clothes and fill up her suitcase along with mine, or if you want to stay under that 40 pounds and avoid paying the extra for overweight baggage fees. Easy to use, very accurate, well made, and a nice design. Very pleased. Saved me money." — Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $10.99+  (available in six colors).

5. A travel-friendly  mini steam iron  in case your hotel or Airbnb doesn't provide one and you refuse to frolic around a new city in a wrinkly outfit. 

Promising review: "Bought this iron to use on trip to France staying in hotels without irons in room or where I did not want to use laundry facility. I have owned four travel irons over the years but this is the first that did not spit — not once — or leave wet spots on clothes that take forever to get out ." — The Doctor

Get it from Amazon for $28.86+  (available in two colors). 

6. A pack of  laundry soap sheets  if you need take your clothes for a wash but don't want to buy a gigantic jug of detergent that's probably going to end up in the trash or left behind. 

Promising review: "This came SO in handy during my European vacation! I was making many different stops at places with different types of weather. With these laundry soap sheets, I was able to wash my clothes in the sink — letting me pack just the right amount of clothes for all the different places I went." — Katie

Get 50 sheets from Amazon for $12.95 .

7. Or some  Tide sink packets  so you can just bring a carry-on with you because you'll be able to wash your clothes in the sink and rewear outfits — there's no shame in that!

Each pack comes with three packets. And, because they *are* liquid, they'll easily slide into the side of your toiletries bag. I've packed these on international trips to much success!

Promising review : "I have taken these packets on travels throughout the world. They are small and fit in my bag. They are good for a wash in a sink or wash bag. Glad to have them. They don’t leak either." — Barbara Jefferson

Get nine packs from Amazon for $7.60 .

8. A refillable travel perfume atomizer  to bring your fave scents with you without having to stress if your large fragrance bottle is going to make it through TSA. Just take the lid of the perfume nozzle off and put the atomizer on top and press down — voila, the perfect amount you need for your travels!

Using the atomizer is easy: Simply unscrew the cap to your perfume bottle, place the perfume nozzle into the hole at the bottom of the atomizer, and pump the perfume inside.

BuzzFeed Shopping editor  Elizabeth Lilly  says, "That's me [above] pumping my signature perfume into one of these travel atomizers I've been using for about a year. It's great to just throw in your purse on the reg for a fragrance re-up throughout the day. As you can see,  it's about the size of my thumb and therefore takes up very little room.  Plus! It's smaller than most rollerball travel fragrances you can pick up. This first one is working so well that I just have the other three in storage. But if this one bites the dust, I'll be OK about digging into my stores to use one of the remaining three...especially at this price point."

Promising review: "These things are perfect! Easy to use. It's a  great size for traveling and didn’t change the smell of my perfumes !"— BMF722

Get a pack of four from Amazon for $6.99 .

9. A waterproof Kindle  for all you bookworms who love to read any chance you get. Instead of carrying a few of your favorite novels with you (ugh, heavvvvvy), just take this handy device that can hold all the books you can dream of! Oh and guess what? It has up to *10 weeks* of battery life and adjustable warm light!

HuffPost Shopping writer  Haley Zovickian says her Kindle has "revolutionized" her life: "I love mine for so many reasons — it's truly helped me incorporate my love of reading into my often hectic life, and all my titles literally live inside of this half-pound wonder gadget, so I can switch between books super easily. For traveling, this is a literal dream. I don't have to pick between titles and then regret the entire trip that I didn't bring the one I left at home — and, as any book lover knows, traveling with books is heavy as hell, and the Kindle literally completely eliminates that weight. Traveling will never be the same for me." 

Promising review: "I LOVE reading and being able to access a book anywhere with this thing. It is easy to navigate, very easy to read and adjust the brightness or how warm the light is. It doesn't auto adjust, but I don't need that feature. I've read in bright sunlight to dark rooms, and it's always been so clear. You can adjust the font and use the library to search whatever books you want. Makes packing books for traveling very easy. " — R@L0

Get the 16GB version from Amazon for $149.99+  (available in three colors, and with or without ads).

10. A tried-and-true  Tide stain-removing pen  to tackle your little ~oopsies~ when you don't have a washing machine on standby. Plus, it's so tiny you'll be able to fit it into any bag, even if you swear you have literally no room left.

Promising review: "This amazing little stain stick can save the day! It is easy to use and provides amazing results. I keep one in my purse, in a suitcase when traveling, and in the car . Those last minute stains or spots discovered too late almost always can be removed . I have used it on fine fabrics with no damage and quick results." — VV

Get it from Amazon for $2.97 .

11. A pair of  ballet flats  so versatile, they may be the only shoes you'll need to bring with you on vacay. Reviewers love that they're so easy to fold and fit into any small space. They're cute, comfy, and the perf airport slippers because you can just slip in and out of 'em!

Promising review: "I normally cannot wear flats because they give me terrible blisters on the back of my feet. These didn't! Bought these in nude for a city vacation with a lot of walking, but where sandals aren't necessarily worn and these were perfect! They obviously don't have the support of sneakers, but I am so happy to finally have a cheap pair of flats that don't give me blisters . I did break them in with thin socks on around my house before wearing them out and when possible, I wear them with little sock liners. Also — I was able to fold these in half like Tieks and fit them in a semi-small purse to change into to dance at a wedding! Score!" — Kate

Get it from Amazon for $21.80  (available in women's sizes 5–15, including wide sizes, and 19 styles). 

12. A set of  earplugs  if you simply can't deal with the pressure in your ears during landing, takeoff, and turbulence — and having it affect your entire trip. Just insert them right before takeoff, then reinsert them an hour or so before landing so you don't have to experience all that popping or clogging!

Promising review: "Never fly without these! Before I found these, I endured excruciating pain in my ears upon descent and landing. Felt like a hot poker being driven into each ear. My ears would also be plugged up, and it would often take two to three days for them to resume their normal state of being. I insert them about an hour before landing, as the plane is making its slow descent. I'm comfortable, and the most discomfort I experience is a slight adjustment of pressure feeling in my sinus. NO PAIN. NO TEARS." — K. Tombrella

Get a pair from Amazon for $7.29  (also available in packs of three, five, or 10 pairs). 

13. A  wireless transmitter  so you'll never have to deal with the internal battle of whether to buy those $6 headphones with horrendous sound quality. Just plug this genius gadget into the headphone jack and connect your wireless earbuds to watch  Crazy Rich Asians  and ugly cry (maybe that's just me tho). Come on, JetBlue, it's 2024 and we need Bluetooth audio!!!

It also comes with a USB-C charging cable, travel pouch, keychain holder, quick-start guide, and a manual.

Twelve South  is a husband-and-wife-owned biz based in Charleston, South Carolina, and has just 20 team members! They've been designing accessories inspired by and made for Apple products since 2009.

Promising review: "This has been so useful, to be honest. It works great! Battery lasts long, and I was able to connect my and my husband’s AirPods so we could watch the same movie on a plane. Easy peasy and actually enjoyable, instead of feeling strapped and tangled with wired headphones." — Sophie4yuhh

Get it from Amazon for  $34.99+  (available in four styles and two colors).

14. An in-flight  foot hammock  because as much as we want to be in first class (*sighs*) ,  it's just not in the budget — but this is! This will give your economy seat a little more pizzazz because you'll be able to rest your feet instead of awkwardly trying to place them around your personal bag — the struggle is real. 

Promising review: " I will never fly again without this. I've recommended it to everyone. East coast USA to Southeast Asia, 24 hours in long haul flights each way with serious low back pain condition to start. But being able to hang my legs, even in a sideways position, saved me from hours of pain that I have endured previously flying with economy leg room.  It is easy to loop over tray table brackets in both the stowed and open positions. This is a must-have for any flight." — DL Flin

Get it from Amazon for $14.99  (also available in multipacks). 

15. A pair of of moisture-wicking compression socks  that may just be the solution for your poor piggies if they swell up during long flights or car rides, because these help increase blood flow. 

Read more about compression socks and how they can help with swelling during long flights at Cleveland Clinic . 

Promising review: "Favorite compression socks for the price. I stand all day on hard floors and these help a lot with foot pain. I used to always have swollen ankles after long days but not when I wear these. I have five pairs now. For some reason the green ones seem longer and looser than the others so I don't know what that's about. I would recommend if purchasing multiple pairs to just stick to the same color, makes it easier when washing to pair them back up rather that trying to keep the same colors together." — Hayley Nyman

Get them from Amazon for $14.13+ (available in unisex sizes S–XXL and 17 styles)

Check out my colleague's Physix Gear compression socks review for more deets!

16. A portable door lock  — it's better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your security. Once it's properly set up, no one will be able to force themselves in! 

BTW, it only works for doors that open inward. Also, know that if you're flying with it, you'll want to keep it in an easy-to-reach spot in your bag, as one of our BuzzFeed Shopping editors said TSA flagged hers at two separate airports.

Promising review: "I took my first solo trip and ordered this for extra security. Was super easy to install and didn't require me to leave my hotel door ajar for an extended amount of time for installation. My hotel door didn't even move when I tested out the lock. 10/10 recommend for a peace of mind. "— Haley Gribble

Get it from Amazon for $11.99  (also available in multipacks).

17. A trifold RFID-blocking travel wallet  so you can safely store your cash, cards, and more all in one adorable place! While everyone else is fumbling to grab their passport and ID for check-in, you'll be able to take them out in just seconds.

The wallet has a passport pocket, boarding pass compartment, three credit card slots, an ID slot, a slim card pouch, slim pocket, a ticket slot, a cellphone pouch, a coin zippered pocket, key holder, and pen holder. It also has RFID-blocking shield material to prevent thieves from digitally stealing your info. 

Promising review: "I used this on a trip with cards, tickets, and passport. Held everything in well, fit well in my smallish purse but was also easy to carry around as its own entity. I loved having something pretty and sturdy to carry my passport and everything else I needed while we went through the airport and was convenient enough to use as a regular wallet for the rest of the trip." — Bailey Gallup

Get it from Amazon for $12.99+  (available in 28 colors).

18. A versatile and travel-friendly  travel shawl  destined to be your savior because it may be warm and sunny out there, but the plane has a mind of its own and feels like it's negative bajillion degrees. You can use it as a scarf, blanket, *and* for sun protection because it's UPF 50+, which blocks out 98% of the rays! 

You can read more about UPF and why it's important at the Skin Cancer Foundation .

Promising review: "I love my new everywhere scarf/shawl. I purchased the silver for travel and am now wearing it almost daily. It is sooooo soft and versatile. Looks great with jeans and a sweater as a scarf. Looks really nice as a shawl with a dress or slacks and blouse. You will love how you feel wrapped up in it on an airplane or in the car on a trip. Don’t pass up owning this great accessory, enjoy it!" — George K.

Get it from Amazon for $48+ (available in nine colors).

19. A collapsible water bottle because hydration is important, but so is precious carry-on or luggage space. When you pull this out of a packed bag, you'll feel like a modern-day Mary Poppins.

Promising review: "Bought three of these for our summer European vacation. Lightweight and easy to pack into a small crossbody bag, latch on to a belt bag easily too. We took these with us everywhere! Filled in the airport for use on the plane. Put in the freezer overnight to freeze the water for use during the hot summer days in Italy. Great for use with the Italian Nasone (Little Fountains) where you can fill up water bottles with very cold water throughout the Italian cities. Was a must have in Rome! I washed them well upon receiving, and they no longer had the plastic smell and never tasted bad at after the initial washing." — M. Michael

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+  (available in four colors and two sizes).

20. A contoured  sleep mask  in case you want to get some rest but your neighbor insists on keeping the overhead light on (*bombastic side eye*  👀). Plus, your lashes will stay ~on fleek~ thanks to the crevices molded perfectly for your eyes. 

Promising review: " Must-have for traveling and staggered bedtime! My partner has used a lot of other brands prior to finding this eye mask. He uses them to block out the TV light on nights I am up watching TV or when he takes naps in the daytime. It is the first eye mask that he's tried that blocks out light and is comfortable to wear. The material is very soft. It does come with a nylon travel case and earplugs. This is our second purchase in case one gets misplaced." — m.szegedy

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in seven colors).

21. An anti-blister balm  to prevent, well, blisters. Whether you're breaking in new travel shoes or going for long walks, you'll want to keep this fairy godmother with you to save your poor feet through all the hardships they're experiencing. 

They also make a great anti-chafing balm for using on your thighs, arms, and anywhere else you're prone to painful rubbing!

Promising review: "This is one of the best products I’ve ever used. So cheap, and does exactly as advertised ; prevents irritation on the feet (and on my inner thighs during sundress season lol). Went to Italy with new shoes like a dummy, and this balm saved me!! I recommend 1,000%!!!!" — Michele's playlists

Get it from Amazon for $8.99 .

22. An  off-shoulder jumpsuit  that can do it all: It's perfect for traveling because of how comfy it is, great for going out since it's so chic, and, best of all, eliminates the need to find a matching pair of bottoms for your top! Even flight attendants swear by this jumpsuit, so you know it's legit.

Promising review: "I bought the navy blue to take on vacation after reading an article about how easy care these jumpsuits are. I loved it so much I bought the green. I take them out of my suitcase, hang them up, and they are ready to go in a few hours , no ironing needed. I get compliments every time I wear one of them." — AKSunshine

Get it from Amazon for $30.39  (available in women's sizes S–3XL and 48 colors/patterns). 

23. A travel harness seat  because there is truly nothing more chaotic than holding your toddler in one arm and trying to eat a preflight meal with the other. This savior fits right over a regular chair and will hold your young one upright so you can enjoy your dinner in peace. 

This harness is designed for ages 6 months and up.

Promising review: "My 7-month-old loved this seat. We used it while traveling for daily feedings at the table and for trips to the restaurant. The baby loved sitting at the table instead of their stroller and was comfortable and secure to the seat. Would definitely recommend." — Kristen

Get it from Amazon for $27.99 .

24. A Trtl travel pillow  if you find yourself dozing off on a complete stranger's shoulder way too often. 😳 This will prevent your head from rolling down so you won't wake up with a crick in your neck or drool on your neighbor's shirt.

Promising review: "Completely satisfied! I have a bulging disc in my neck and related neck/shoulder pain so I can't afford to fall asleep uncomfortably when I travel via car or plane. This neck pillow looks a little goofy (as most do!) but it definitely works. It essentially helped me sleep sitting up on and off during a 10-hour car trip with no discomfort or pain. Once your head starts to fall to the side just a little, it will hold you up. I didn't feel it was as comfortable or natural putting the support under my chin but it could definitely work that way if your head tips forward when you fall asleep. I will definitely take this on any and all long trips where I want to sleep and ensure I have proper neck support!" — Kris

Get it from Amazon for $64.99  (available in four colors).

25. A pack of  50 on-the-go games  that'll keep your young ones (and old ones) busy so you won't have to hear the never-ending question: "Are we there yet?"

It comes with guessing games, memory challenges, trivia questions, and more!

Promising review: "Bought this as a gift for my son as we had a 10-hour road trip in less than a week. We played several of the games, but the guess the job was our favorite. Played that for nearly two hours!! Our 12-year-olds loved it as much as we did!!! If playing in car, recommend playing when not in busy traffic so driver and navigator can play." — Sydney

Get it from Amazon for $11.99 .

26. A roll-up straw hat  combining both style and practicality — it's UPF 50+ (yay, sun protection!) and absolutely chic! Reviewers love that it's so easy to pack and keeps its shape after being rolled up for a while. 

Promising review: "Let me start off by staying I've never been a beach hat type person...until now! I love this hat!!! When I bought it, I wasn't sure if I could pull it off. Well, I just got back from Belize and this hat was amazing. I love how adjustable it is. I was able to comfortably wear it while riding a golf cart, all day at the beach, and even out on a kayak without it blowing off or being too tight. And it was just the right coverage for me. Enough to protect my sensitive eyes and fair skin from the sun yet not so large that it was in the way. I wore it much more than I thought I would because it was so useful, cute, and comfortable! Great buy." — Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $24.99+  (available in 22 colors and in sizes one-size-M or L-XL).

27. A  wireless portable charger  because having a dead phone is just  such  a pain in the *you know what* — especially when you're not in the comfort of your home. Instead of packing those massive power banks, just toss this tiny but mighty lipstick-size charger into your bag!

Promising review: "I initially bought this for my fiancé to carry with him on the golf course, as his battery is ALWAYS dying. This small portable charger allows up to THREE FULL charges with battery percent on 5% . I love that it doesn't have any wires and plugs right into your phone; you can put your phone in your pocket or bag and charge on the go . With this portable charger, you will never have a dead phone battery." — Kristina Michelle

Get it from Amazon for $29.99+  (available in four colors). 

28. A mini lightweight flat iron , perfect for packing into your luggage, carry-on, or even personal bag because of how little space it takes up! Your hair will always be (*mwah*) chef's kiss even when you're away from home. 

It also comes with a heat-resistant pouch for easy carrying!

Promising review: "This fits perfectly in my toiletries travel bag that I take with me as a flight attendant. Anything that comes in a small size and still works well is perfect for me." — Kathy S

Get it from Amazon for $16.99+  (available in three colors).

29. A water-resistant  sunscreen stick  with broad-spectrum SPF 30 so you don't have to deal with any burns during your vacay, because it should be a pain-free time. Plus, you can saunter through security knowing your bag will not be pulled aside because it's solid and TSA-approved! 

Promising review: "This small-but-very-effective stick of sunscreen was perfect for traveling with us on vacation . I took it to the beach, stuck it in my bag when we went exploring, and carried it in my purse when we were in town. The smell is so good, it makes you want to take a bite out of it! I found it perfectly fine for my face, not greasy or irritating . I'll most likely buy a bigger size of lotion for my next trip as well." — Pixie Mom

Get it from Amazon for $11.49 .

The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.  

Share This Article

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

The Best Travel Bag Is Under $100

It's the only carry-on I'll ever use.

Welcome to The Esquire Endorsement . Heavily researched. Thoroughly vetted. These picks are the best way to spend your hard-earned cash.

Rarely do I use a product that so completely changes the way I function. When it came to travel , I was, like most people, a hard suitcase plus personal bag type of guy, but I'd heard about this Halfday Garment Duffel .

The whole marketing idea around a bag that's perfect for a wedding or other weekend getaways where you want to bring a nice jacket or full suit is what first caught my attention. Then I was invited to a destination wedding in Tuscany—10 days of travel, city excursions, country excursions, driving all over the boot, and a few formal drinks and dinners. It was perfect time to put this bag to the test. Holy shit, it is perfect.

Packing is a breeze.

Listen, I'm not usually a Travel Hacks guy, but this bag turned me into one. First, you don't have to worry about folding a suit. In fact, I've already forgotten how to do that. Second, It packs way more than I thought it would. My original intention was to pack this duffel as a carry on and check a suitcase. But when I laid out all my clothes and necessities, the only thing that couldn't fit in the duffel was my tennis shoes. Ok... What if I only brought this bag? I did some thinking, and consolidated a few things, and I had everything I needed (I think) for 10 days in Italy.

Post trip, I can say it actually packed everything I needed. I wore everything once, with only one hotel sink laundry session. I can't process how I did it, but I've done it every trip since. I'm a one bag guy now, and this is the one bag.

It's surprisingly durable.

Part of being The Only Bag You Need means it should also be capable of being checked luggage too. As for the quality being able to survive that endeavor, I wasn't confident at first. The outer material is 420-Denier, so I was a little worried the polyester wouldn't look so great after. Still, I tossed it on the conveyor belt and walked through the airport with nothing in my hands.

When I got it back, not a scratch. Everything held up well. I've checked it twice since, and same deal. It hasn't gotten any marks, the zipper, handles, and strap have held up. I'm really, really impressed.

The only issues I had with my bag were related though. The handles and strap weren't super padded, and some of the hardware was a bit flimsy. But since testing their original model, Halfday has since released a brand new version of the bag that addressed all those issues. (The new version is the one I've linked to throughout, so you won't have to worry about those things.) I already saw it in person, and it's all spot on—the handles, the strap, the hardware, everything. Thanks to those upgrades, I'm not on the fence about this thing anymore, you should buy it.

Shop $98, halfdaytravel.com

It actually, dare I say, looks good.

Another one of the issues I had coming into this review was the look. Even now I'll admit, this thing doesn't have that designer luxurious look. It's about on par with the duffels in its price range—which I'd say are from Patagonia or The North Face, and more outdoorsy brands. But honestly, I can't fault it. It looks simple, but it's inoffensive. The amazing design went into the functionality, not the form.

When I first tried this bag it came in about two colors, and now it comes in 10! It's unassuming, and will blend in anywhere you go. Plus, the hardware on the new version looks much bit nicer, and it goes a long way.

At the end of the day, you literally cannot find a better quality, better looking, and more functional bag out there for less than $100—I dare you.

Photography by Joe Lingeman. Prop styling by Andrea Bonin.

@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;}} The Esquire Endorsement

The Best Damn Camping Accessory on the Planet

The Best Looking Shoe Rack Ever Made

The Made-to-Measure Shirt Brand That Gets It Right

The Backpack That Made Me Love Backpacks

Jeans That Look Cool for Guys of Any Age

The Small Shower Speaker With Big Sound

The Only Bomber Jacket You Really Need

This $13 Pen Has Changed My Life

Lululemon's ABC Pants Are a Hit for a Reason

The OG Lacoste Polo Is at Its Lowest Price Ever

Every Man Should Own Wrangler Cowboy Cut Jeans