7 day trip luggage

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7 Day Trip Packing List for 2023: Change Your Life With These Travel Hacks

Packing Tips for a One Week Trip

Before we head on to the checklist, let’s go over some tips that can make packing easy breezy for you! This is going to be quick, so let's start.

Tip #1: Find the Best Suitcase That ‘Suits’ You

Step one before packing is deciding on your main luggage. Are you planning to bring a rolling suitcase or a backpack? It all depends on what kind of trip you are taking.

Are you flying or driving? You may want to take a carry on (if flying) to save the baggage claim annoyance. If you are driving, it’s not such an issue. Once you've decided on a bag, the next thing you want to do is ensure the bag’s warranty.

While traveling, your bag may experience a lot of thumps and bumps so it's not surprising to find a broken zipper, handle or wheel. Find a trusted luggage brand that promises high-quality products. After all, you want to get your money's worth.

✔️ Backpack - If you want a hassle (and hands) free getaway, you may find a travel backpack to be your new BFF. Opt for a bag that reduces the extra weight of wheels so you can walk with one hand for your phone (for selfies, of course) and the other for holding your drink (no, we're not gonna judge). If you know that you'll be carrying your bag around a lot, this kind of bag could be helpful, especially if you’ll be walking around cobbled or uneven streets.

✔️ Rolling Luggage - A 7-day trip is long enough to carry almost one-fourth of your closet and that thought alone is enough to make you feel exhausted. If you're worried about your back and you don't want to put too much pressure on your body, a four-wheeled suitcase may be the choice for you. Effortlessly roll your suitcase around, and save your back the stress.

Pro Tip : Be sure to carry a duffle bag with you for "just in case/emergency" moments. Bring out this baby when your suitcase is overweight at the airport, or you don't have enough space for those souvenirs you brought back for each family member.   

Tip #2 - Plan Activities So You Know How to Pack

The first step to an organized suitcase is proper planning. Where are you exactly going? What activities are you going to do? Are you planning to visit different climates? These questions will help you come up with a list you need. Now, it's time to organize.

As much as you wanted this part to be easy, it will always be chaotic unless you commit to this traveling hack -- packing cube organizers . These travel cubes help to sort your items into categories, such as toiletries, hair accessories, sweater/jackets, pants, shirts/blouses, and more.

Place undergarments in the blue Small Cube , skincare essentials in the pink Extra Small Cube , shirts & blouses in the green Medium Cube , and jackets & jeans in the black Large Cube .

Even more awesome is that EzPacking products are transparent - so you can easily see what's inside every cube, and even without a vacuum sealer, your clothes are carefully compressed. The result? More space for other items.

Tip #3 - Pack Like the #GirlBoss You Are

Bring versatile and lightweight clothes to avoid overpacking or under packing. Roll up your garments inside this Starter Set to save space and reduce wrinkling. Go for a color scheme. Think black and white, or earthy colors like brown and tan, or pastel colors to keep it fun! Sticking to this scheme will help you pack light.

Tip #4 - Get Your Carry-On / Tote Bag Ready

Pack all your airplane essentials and go-to’s in your tote, purse, or backpack. Make sure your personal hygiene kit is in an accessible place. You’ll never know when you’ll need to disinfect a seat or a handle using an alcohol spray before sitting or touching them. Remember to sanitize your hands as often as possible as well.

Tip #5 - Secure Your Home

Whether it's a one-day escape or a 7-day trip, it's important to prepare your home before you leave. Closing up the house should be on your “7-day vacation packing checklist” as the last vital step. Leave extra time for this, so that you’re not flying around the house right before your flight.

Things you should do before leaving the house:

☑ Call the post office and ask them to hold your mail for the meantime

☑ Set up a voice message or email Autoresponder (c'mon, leave your work for a little while!)

☑ Pre-pay your utility bills

☑ Unplug home appliances

☑ Take out the trash

☑ Empty the fridge (of food that will expire)

☑ Close windows and lock all doors

☑ Secure your valuables in your safe (or with family)

☑ Leave your puppy / kitty with family, friends, or a pet hotel

☑ Leave your house key & details of your itinerary with a trusted family member / friend (in case of emergencies)

Week-long Trip Checklist

Here's everything you need for your 7-day trip. Bookmark this page so you can easily access it later!

Before deciding what clothes to wear, check what the weather's like at your destination. Plan your outfits in advance around it so you'll be ready.

For the Ladies

☑ 7 pairs of underwear

☑ 4 pairs of socks

☑ 3 dresses (one little black dress)

☑ 4 casual tops/blouses

☑ 4 tank tops

☑ 3 shorts (warm locations)

☑ 2 pants / jeans

☑ 2 leggings (for airplane)

☑ 1 workout outfit

☑ Bikini / swimsuit

For the Hubby / Partner in Crime:

☑ 6 pairs of socks

☑ 2 button down shirts (short sleeve)

☑ 2 button down shirts (long sleeve)

☑ 4 casual shirts

☑ 1 sport jacket

☑ 1 pair of sneakers

☑ 1 pair of walking shoes

☑ 1 pair of pants / jeans

☑ 2 pair of shorts

☑ 2 pair of beach shorts (if applicable)

☑ Baseball hat

Pro Tip: Wear the heaviest clothing you have in transit. For instance, if you're going to sport a jacket or sweater, or if you would like to bring your favorite pair of boots or sneakers, wear them so you can save yourself a great deal of luggage space.

Don't bring more than what you need (as is true with everything else in this checklist) Trust us, you don't need 5 pairs of boots and high heels. Just bring your comfy ones and you're good to go.

☑ 1 pair of dressy shoes / sandals

☑ 1 pair of sneakers (wear on the plane) 

☑ 1 pair of flip-flops

Pro Tip: Show your shoes some love and pack them in their very own Travel Shoe Bag . 

✅ TOILETRIES / PERSONAL HYGIENE KIT

Avoid packing toiletries and other personal hygiene essentials every single time you go on a trip. Keep a TSA Approved toiletry bag  packed with all your essentials in your cabinet that you can easily grab and go for your next trip. Once an item is already used up, simply replace it with a new one and keep it ready for your next trip.

Friendly Reminder from TSA: Keep your liquids in a 3.4 ounces travel size container (like this extra small cube !)

☑ Mini shampoo / conditioner

☑ Mini soap / facial cleanser

☑ Mini deodorant

☑ Travel size sunblock

☑ Bubble bath (because why not!)

☑ Personal hygiene items

☑ Mini toothbrush / toothpaste

☑ Floss / mouthwash

☑ Tampons / pads

☑ Clear Makeup bag

☑ Makeup remover

☑ Mini toothbrush / toothpaste / mouthwash

☑ Mini sunblock

☑ Shaving supplies

✅ MINI FIRST AID KIT

Take into consideration your health needs and whatever unprecedented events that may happen while traveling. It's always a good idea to bring a first aid kit with you, no matter the length of the trip. You can master a DIY First Aid Kit by reading this article .

☑ Prescription Medicines

☑ Band aids 

☑ Dramamine

☑ Allergy Meds 

☑ Neosporin 

☑ Aloe Vera Gel 

☑ Tylenol / Paracetamol

☑ Insect repellent

☑ Cough and Cold Medicine

✅ ELECTRONICS

Keep your electronics secure by sandwiching them between bulky clothes, like your jacket or sweater. Keep cords and wires from tangling by using velcro ties.

☑ iPad / Tablet

☑ Kindle (Optional)

☑ External Drive

☑ All chargers

☑ Adapters / Converters

✅ CARRY-ON BAG

Pack these essentials in your carry-on bag and make sure to secure those important ones, like your electronics, passport and boarding ticket, in an easy access place for security reasons.

☑ Airline tickets / e-ticket confirmation (if applicable)

☑ Passport / ID (driver’s license)

☑ Copy of hotel / restaurants / reservation confirmations

☑ Copy of trip / medical insurance coverage

☑ Photocopy of prescriptions

☑ Ear plugs / eye mask / neck pillow

☑ Electronics

☑ eBooks / Kindle

☑ Journal / pen

☑ Medicine Kit

☑ Snacks / water bottle (empty before TSA Security)

☑ Important toiletries (birth control / retainer / contacts)

☑ Sunglasses / case

☑ Tissues / wet wipes

☑ Makeup kit (for ladies)

✅ MISCELLANEOUS

Got everything you need? Double check these items to make sure you won't forget them.

☑ Chargers (phones / cameras / iPad)

☑ Universal Adapters (in you’re traveling outside us)

☑ Clear packing cubes (take 1 suitcase & share)

☑ Ziplock / resealable plastic bags

☑ Travel Laundry Bag

☑ Travel Jewelry Roll for accessories

☑ Map / guidebooks

☑ Foldable tote / duffle bag

☑ Travel Documents

☑ Sunglasses

☑ House Keys

Leaving the hustle and the bustle of the city is always a good idea. No matter where you go or what activity you do, have fun and try to be present (aka not thinking about work)! Just make sure to follow these vital tasks before saying YOLO! That way, you're promising yourself a hassle-free, memorable, and exciting 7-day adventure.

We hope you have an awesome trip!

—  The EzPacking Team

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How To Pack A Carry On For A Seven-Day Trip

When you're getting ready for that long-awaited vacation, being a minimalist is a good way to save time, aggravation, and money. Many people try to bring only one small piece of carry-on luggage on airplanes, as checking baggage can cost anywhere from $30 to $200, depending on the size of the suitcase, according to Lugless . That's why it's best to know how to pack a carry-on just right for your next seven-day travel adventure.

Before you do anything else, check with your airline on the dimensions they allow for carry-on luggage. The most standard size for many airlines like United, Jet Blue, and Delta is a bag not bigger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches. However, these airlines have no weight limit on the bag. It just has to fit into the overhead compartment (via Travel + Leisure ). If you know how to pack your carry-on right, this shouldn't be an issue.

What you should pack for a seven-day trip in one carry-on

If you're heading for a summer vacation destination, make sure to pack five shirts, three shorts or skirts, two dressy outfits, one piece of outerwear in case it gets cool, one pair of sneakers, one pair of flip-flops , one pair of dress shoes, two bathing suits, one cover-up, and accessories, as well as essentials like pajamas, socks, and underwear (via Islands.com )

Of course, check the weather at your destination for the week you'll be there because you might have to adjust that list in case of rainy days. Also check with your hotel to make sure they supply certain toiletries and necessities, including a hair dryer. If these things are included with your hotel stay, you don't have to pack them.

Before you start packing all these items, lay them out on a bed or floor first so that you can take a visual stock of what you have and see if you missed anything from your list. You might not even want to pack everything you have laid out. You can wear a sweater or jacket on the plane, as well as your heaviest pair of shoes. The less that goes in the carry-on, the easier it will be for everything to fit.

How to fit all those items in your carry-on

Now that you know what's going in the carry-on luggage and what's not, it's time to get it all in there and make sure it all fits. Islands.com recommends placing the front of the shirt on a flat surface, folding the arms back to square the item, folding the square in half, and then rolling. The shirts will unroll unwrinkled and leave more room in your suitcase.

Pants and sweaters can just be folded into squares, making them quite compact. Be careful with any dresses or other more formal items by leaving them on a hanger and putting them into clear plastic bags.

Now that everything is ready, it's time to place the items, starting with the square ones. Place these in the carry-on luggage first, and the rolled shirts can surround them. Your socks and shoes can then go into any empty spaces you see. Finally, place your toiletry bag on top of the clothing and lay the dressy items in their plastic bags flat at the very top. As long as it all fits and you can zip with ease, you're ready to go.

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What to Pack for a 7 Day Trip: The Ultimate Packing List [2023]

• June 16, 2023
• Travel Checklists

Welcome to Travel Checklist™, where we make packing for your trips a breeze! We understand that preparing for a 7-day trip can be overwhelming, which is why we've put together this ultimate packing list to help you stay organized and ensure you have everything you need. Whether you're embarking on a beach vacation or exploring a new city, we've got you covered. So grab your suitcase and let's get started!

Table of Contents

• Packing Essentials
• Electronics
• Miscellaneous

What do I need to pack for a one week trip?

How do you pack a 7 day carry on, how many days of clothes can you fit in a carry on, quick tips and facts, final thoughts, 1. packing essentials.

Before we dive into specific items, let's talk about the essentials you should pack for any 7-day trip. These items are a must-have regardless of your destination or travel style:

• Travel documents : Don't forget your passport, ID cards, driver's license, visas, and travel insurance information. Keep them organized in a secure travel wallet.
• Money and cards : Bring enough cash and make sure to have a mix of credit and debit cards. It's always wise to have some local currency on hand.
• Travel adapters : Depending on your destination, you might need an adapter to charge your electronic devices. Research the electrical outlets in the country you're visiting and pack the appropriate adapter.
• Medications : If you take any prescription medication, ensure you have enough for the duration of your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small first aid kit with essentials like band-aids and pain relievers.
• Reusable water bottle : Stay hydrated during your trip by bringing a refillable water bottle. It's both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
• Travel-sized laundry detergent : If you plan to do laundry during your trip, pack a small container of travel-sized laundry detergent. This will come in handy for hand-washing clothes in a sink or using the hotel's laundry facilities.

2. Clothing

When it comes to packing clothing for a 7-day trip, versatility is key. Aim to pack items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need:

• Tops : Pack a combination of short-sleeve and long-sleeve tops, depending on the weather at your destination. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics.
• Bottoms : Include a mix of pants, shorts, and skirts. Choose versatile pieces in neutral colors that can be dressed up or down.
• Dresses : If you prefer dresses, pack a few that can be worn during the day or dressed up for evening activities.
• Outerwear : Depending on the climate, pack a light jacket, sweater, or cardigan for cool evenings or unexpected temperature changes.
• Undergarments : Don't forget essentials like underwear and socks. Pack enough for each day of your trip, plus a couple of extra pairs.
• Shoes : Select comfortable shoes that are suitable for the activities you have planned. A pair of sneakers, sandals, and one dressier option should cover your bases.

Remember, the key to fitting all your clothing in your suitcase is to roll your clothes instead of folding them. This not only saves space but also minimizes wrinkles.

3. Toiletries

Toiletries are a crucial part of any packing list. Here are some essential items you shouldn't forget:

• Travel-sized toiletries : Opt for travel-sized versions of your favorite shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion. These are not only convenient for travel but also meet TSA regulations for carry-on liquids.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste : Don't forget these daily essentials for maintaining good oral hygiene.
• Haircare : Bring a brush or comb, hair ties, and any styling products you use regularly.
• Skincare : Pack your essential skincare products, such as cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen.
• Makeup : If you wear makeup, bring your must-have items like foundation, mascara, and lipstick. Remember to pack travel-sized versions or decant your products into smaller containers.
• Personal hygiene items : Don't forget items like deodorant, razors, and feminine hygiene products.

Pro-tip: To save space, consider using solid toiletries, such as shampoo bars and solid deodorant.

4. Electronics

In this digital age, electronics play a crucial role in our day-to-day lives, even while traveling. Here are the electronics you should consider packing for a 7-day trip:

• Phone and charger : Your smartphone will likely be your go-to device for navigation, communication, and entertainment. Don't forget to bring your charger and consider a portable power bank for on-the-go charging.
• Camera : If you're a photography enthusiast, pack your camera and any necessary accessories like extra batteries and memory cards.
• Laptop or tablet : If you need to work or want to enjoy your favorite TV shows during downtime, bring your laptop or tablet along with the necessary chargers.
• E-readers : If you're an avid reader, packing an e-reader can save space and weight compared to bringing physical books.
• Headphones : Noise-canceling headphones are a traveler's best friend. They help drown out background noise during flights or long bus rides.

Pro-tip: Invest in a travel adapter that has USB ports, so you can charge multiple electronic devices simultaneously.

5. Miscellaneous

Now that we've covered the essentials, let's discuss some miscellaneous items that can come in handy during your 7-day trip:

• Daypack or tote bag : A small daypack or tote bag is useful for carrying essentials during day trips or exploring the city.
• Travel pillow and blanket : If you're traveling by plane or train, a travel pillow and blanket can make your journey more comfortable.
• Reusable shopping bag : Having a foldable reusable shopping bag is practical for carrying groceries, souvenirs, or beach essentials.
• Travel locks : Keep your belongings secure with travel locks for your luggage.
• Travel-size laundry bag : Separate dirty clothes from clean ones by packing a travel-size laundry bag.

Now that you have a comprehensive packing list, it's time to answer some common FAQs!

Packing for a one week trip can seem daunting, but with a little planning, it's manageable. Here's a quick checklist to guide you:

• 5-7 tops or blouses
• 3-4 bottoms (pants, skirts, or shorts)
• 1-2 dresses or jumpsuits
• Underwear and socks for each day
• Comfortable shoes
• Toiletries (travel-sized)
• Electronics and chargers
• Travel documents and money
• Medications and first aid kit

Remember to pack versatile items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. Keep in mind the climate and activities you'll be participating in during your trip.

Packing a 7-day carry-on requires careful planning and efficient use of space. Here are some tips to make it work:

• Choose a carry-on bag that complies with airline size restrictions.
• Roll your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles.
• Use packing cubes to keep your items organized and maximize space.
• Wear your bulkiest items (like a jacket or sneakers) during your flight.
• Opt for travel-sized toiletries to comply with TSA regulations.
• Minimize the number of shoes you pack by selecting versatile options.

It's important to pack only what you truly need and avoid overpacking. Embrace a minimalist mindset and focus on essentials.

The number of days of clothes you can fit in a carry-on depends on various factors, including the size of your bag and the type of clothing you pack. However, as a general guideline, you can typically fit enough clothing for a 7-10 day trip in a standard carry-on bag. By focusing on versatile pieces, practicing efficient packing techniques, and utilizing space-saving accessories like packing cubes, you can maximize the amount of clothing you bring.

• Travel-sized toiletries : Opt for travel-sized toiletries to save space and comply with TSA regulations.
• Layering : Choose clothing items that can be layered for versatility and adaptability to changing weather conditions.
• Maximize space : Use packing organizers like packing cubes to make the most of your suitcase's space.
• Roll, don't fold : Rolling clothes instead of folding them helps save space and minimize wrinkles.
• Limit shoe options : Bring only the essential shoes you'll need for your trip to avoid taking up unnecessary space.

And now, here are a couple of lighthearted travel quotes from fellow adventurers:

"To travel is to live a life worth packing for." – Anonymous traveler

"I haven't been everywhere, but it's on my packing list." – Susan Sontag

Packing for a 7-day trip doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following our ultimate packing list and implementing our tips and tricks, you can ensure you have everything you need while still traveling light. Remember, packing is all about finding a balance between being prepared and not overburdening yourself with unnecessary items. Bon voyage!

Reference Links:

• TSA's 3-1-1 Liquids Rule
• Ways to Roll Clothes
• Travel Essential Packing Tips
• 10 Genius Packing Tips
• Top Carry-On Bags

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Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Luggage for Travel

Best Suitcases , Packing , Packing Tips

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

This ultimate guide covers the best suitcase of all sizes along with tips on how to choose the right option for your trip. Get ready to become a luggage expert!

Tips for Selecting Travel Luggage

Table of contents.

Let’s be honest: as wonderful as it is, traveling can be stressful. From planning an itinerary, flights, and accommodations all the way down to what to pack—there are many logistics to think about! One way to decrease stress while traveling is to ensure you’re using the best travel luggage for your needs.

When I first started traveling I lugged around a huge 60-liter backpack, along with two smaller backpacks, and my purse! Talk about overkill! I’ve learned a lot since then to graduate from overpacker to carry on only, and a big aspect of that is having the right suitcase.

I was a long-term user of backpacks before discovering carry ons, especially Osprey packs. When I traveled Europe a few years ago, I had an Osprey Ozone 35 L Pack (now the Osprey 40L Backpack —you can also see more of their bags here ).

Once I became a mom, I also mix in checked baggage when traveling with my daughter, but I still focus on packing efficiently, even with a family!

Since I’ve changed the way I travel so much, I want to address that this article is about suitcases and not focused on backpacks. There are a few reasons why suitcases have an edge over backpacks.

When I started traveling carry on only, I discovered the amazing Delsey suitcases . One of my faves is the Turenne (see this review ). Also pictured is the Longchamp Le Pliage Tote !

Suitcases are some of the easiest luggage to maneuver through the airport, the outdoors, or at your accommodation. And with a suitcase that has 4 wheels, the convenience of moving it from point A to point B is less strenuous for anyone who can’t lift a backpack for health reasons.

Overall, luggage is better equipped to protect your belongings because they have TSA locks and tracking devices in case a suitcase gets lost or stolen. If you want more information on the difference between backpacks and suitcases, read this article .

Lately, I’ve been in love with Away’s carry on luggage. At the airport with the Away The Carry On and the Lo & Sons O.G. Tote Bag !

The following guide will cover everything you need to know about choosing luggage, including sharing our top picks. I personally own and have traveled with many of the mentioned suitcases, and they also happen to be some of our community’s favorite styles, too!

But first, let’s address FAQs and some vital factors to keep in mind before you buy luggage.

Tip: Whether or not you choose to travel carry on only, always use packing cubes to help organize and compress your belongings to maximize space. One essential way to accomplish this is to create a functional but minimalist capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

There are many pros and cons between softside or hardside; read them all below!

Pros and Cons of Hardside vs. Softside Luggage?

The debate on hardside vs. softside luggage is constant in the TFG community, which can lead to confusion about which style of suitcase is best for you.

The destination, length of your trip, and activities you have planned all factor in whether a softside or hardside suitcase is better. Before making any conclusions, let’s cover the pros and cons of both!

Pros of Softside Luggage:

• Flexibility and Expandability: Many softside suitcases have expandable zippers, allowing for more packing space when needed. Due to their flexible nature, they can fit into tight spaces more easily, such as overhead compartments or smaller luggage storage areas.
• Easy Access: Softside suitcases often feature multiple external pockets, providing convenient access to items like travel documents, electronics, and other essentials.
• Cost: Softside luggage is often less expensive than hardside options, making it a more budget-friendly choice.

Cons of Softside Luggage:

• Less Protection and Less Secure: Softside luggage provides less protection for fragile items compared to hardside luggage, as it lacks a rigid outer shell. And the material is easier to cut open, making it less secure than hardside luggage.
• Water Resistance: It’s generally less water-resistant, and belongings may be more vulnerable to moisture and rain, so always shop for water-resistant fabrics which are readily available now.
• Durability Issues: While resistant to abrasions, softside luggage can be more susceptible to wear and tear, such as fabric rips or tears, especially with frequent use.
• Shape Issues: Softside luggage can lose its shape when overpacked, leading to difficulties in zipping and potential damage to the zippers.
• Cleaning Challenges: Fabric can be harder to clean than the smooth surfaces of hardside luggage, especially if it gets stained or dirty.

Pros of Hardside Luggage:

• Durability: Made from materials like polycarbonate, ABS, or aluminum, hardside luggage can withstand rough handling and impacts better than softside luggage.
• Protective and Sturdy: Its rigid shell offers better protection for fragile items inside. It’s also more water-resistant, protecting your belongings from rain and spills.
• Better Security: Hardside suitcases often come with integrated locks, making it harder for thieves to access your belongings. The hard exterior is more challenging to cut through compared to fabric.
• Structure: Maintains its shape, preventing it from being overstuffed and making it easier to pack and organize items. Typically has a more modern and sleek design.
• Easy to Clean: The smooth, hard surface is easier to wipe down and keep clean compared to fabric luggage.

Cons of Hardside Luggage:

• Flexibility: Less flexible than softside luggage, making it harder to fit into tight spaces like overhead bins or car trunks. Especially in Europe, where small spaces to store luggage is prevalent.
• Expandability: Generally less expandable than softside luggage, limiting your ability to pack extra items or souvenirs. However nowadays, expandable luggage comes in both softside and hardside styles.
• Weight: Can be heavier than softside luggage, especially if made from materials like aluminum, which can contribute to reaching airline weight limits faster. The key is to look for lightweight materials in a hardside.
• Scratches and Scuffs: The hard surface can show scratches and scuffs more easily, which can affect its appearance over time. It’s recommended to use a magic eraser to remove them.

Tip: One of the things to keep in mind when choosing your luggage is the wheels. If the suitcase is too heavy or the weight is not distributed evenly, a soft side suitcase with 2 wheels may topple over whereas a hard side remains even and steady with 4 wheels.

A hardside is great for longer trips or hotter climates as the case will stay cleaner.

Conclusion: What’s Better, Hardside or Softside Luggage?

Softside suitcases have been a longstanding staple of the travel industry forever and have evolved into more durable fabrics, better packing capacities, and robust wheels that can handle any terrain.

Hard side suitcases have gained popularity over the years due to new brands such as Away and Monos offering more stylish options vs traditional luggage brands. They look sleeker, offer functionality, and also help belongings stay in place and organized.

You can find lightweight options in both. We recommend looking for suitcases under 5.5 lb to maximize your airline weight allowance.

While I used to prefer Delsey softside suitcases to maximize my luggage weight allowance, most recently I’ve used my Away hard side suitcase more frequently.

What’s best: hardside or softside? It truly depends on what trip you have planned, but it mostly comes down to personal preference.

A softside works in small luggage compartments and is generally more lightweight.

For instance, a hardside suitcase might do better in a hotter climate, like Thailand because it won’t be as affected by the elements or get as dirty or dusty in humidity. And hardisdes are also great for longer term travel due to their hardshell exterior and toughness.

While a softisde is excellent for shorter trips and work well in places like Europe because they can squeeze into tighter spaces. And, of course, they are generally lighter and allow one to gain luggage space.

But truthfully, travelers take softside suitcases to SE Asia and some of the most popular hardside luggage is used for Europe. Ultimately, it’s best to choose based on your travel goals and needs!

To see a full list of both, the best softside suitcases are here , and the best hardside suitcases are accessible here !

Europe has more challenges to navigate luggage, such as cobblestone streets and lots of stairs.

Best Suitcase for Europe?

One of our frequently asked questions is “What’s the best carry on for Europe?”. Because hotel rooms, trains, and European domestic planes tend to have narrower spaces than their American counterparts, the smallest AND lightest suitcase is best.

The luggage allowance for USA domestic carryon size suitcases are 22”, larger than European carryon sizes, which are 19”. If you plan to fly European budget airlines such as RyanAir or EasyJet, make sure you have international size luggage and adhere to the strict weight limits (5 kg-10 kg). There are lightweight hardside and softside options available to meet this requirement; see the best luggage for Europe for more information and review these suitcases that are under 5 lb for options!

Elevators are not common in European hotels, and train stations sometimes have countless flights of stairs and a lack of (working) elevators such as the busy Oxford Circus Tube stop in London.

If possible, carry on size travel backpacks such as the Osprey 40 Farpoint are good alternatives to wheeled suitcases due to their ease of moving through train stations, cobblestones, and the gorgeous historic bridges of Venice.

When you’re on the go and are visiting more than one destination, packing light is a must.

Are four-wheeled suitcases better to handle the streets of European cities?

What About Wheels for Europe—Is 2 or 4 Wheels Best?

Don’t make this choice solely based on how the luggage rolls in the store or at home; consider the environment you’ll be traveling in. For most people, everywhere you go isn’t going to have smooth airport floors!

Four wheels glide the easiest through airports and train stations. Being able to push your suitcase (versus pulling it behind you) is a lot easier on your body, especially when your bag is heavy! If you’re really worried about extra weight, it’s worth noting that a four-wheeled suitcase will weigh slightly more than a two-wheeled suitcase.

Two-wheeled cases are not as easy to pull through airports as four-wheeled ones, but they are significantly easier to navigate on cobblestone roads. If you do a lot of Europe travel, you may want to consider sticking with the traditional two wheels.

Your luggage should be lightweight enough that you can lift and maneuver it!

Factors to Consider When Choosing Luggage

Olivia Hulett of Ricardo Beverly Hills recommends asking yourself this to begin your search, “Where am I going, and how am I getting there?” Keep these two questions in mind when choosing a suitcase because selecting the right case for the destination and length of your trip is essential.

Determine if you’ll be checking your bags, dealing with difficult terrain, or traveling for business purposes. For instance, business travelers might want a bag with an easily accessible laptop and electronics compartment. Anyone traveling for a special occasion, like a destination wedding, might appreciate straps that hold clothes in place and reduce wrinkling.

There are 4 factors to consider when choosing a suitcase:

• #1 Luggage Size and Weight
• #2 Luggage Features
• #3 Luggage with Safety Features
• #4 Luggage Based on Price

Your travel suitcase should measure 22” x 9” x 14” for domestic flights.

#1 Choosing Luggage Size and Weight

Jacquie Whitt, co-founder of Adios Adventure Travel , notes that the overall size of the bag should be limited to what you can handle since there may be times when no one is around to help you lift and maneuver it.

For domestic travel, we recommend that your travel suitcase measures 22” x 9” x 14” or less. As a general rule, opt for a carry on no larger than 45” (length + width + height). This is small enough to fit into the overhead compartments on most airlines. As for a checked bag, choose one that’s no larger than 62”, which is standard for most US airlines. Note that US domestic carry on size is larger than European carry on sizing, which we address directly below.

Let’s further break this down with our handy suitcase sizing guide:

• 18 – 20” International Carry On: Considered the international carry on size, this is ideal if you’re using budget European airlines like EasyJet or Ryanair. They have incredibly strict rules. Here is the best international carry on luggage !
• 21 – 22” Domestic Carry On: This is the most popular size of carry on luggage and we guarantee you can travel anywhere with a suitcase this size—here’s a step by step guide to how! Here are more carry on luggage for travel !
• 23 – 24” Medium Checked: The size is perfect for travelers who aren’t quite ready to travel carry on and need just a little extra room. If you’re traveling with another person, it might be a better investment to just take one 25-27″ suitcase for both of you. See the best checked luggage article for some popular options.
• 25 – 27” Large Checked: Generally, this is the most popular size of luggage to check as it has lots of room. Ideally, you would use this suitcase size if you wanted to check one bag for two people. If you’re traveling with a family, then you can also fit everyone’s belongings into one or two of these suitcases for easy handling as opposed to the oversized suitcase below that isn’t as easy to maneuver. Here’s the best ultra-lightweight checked luggage for your next trip!
• 28 – 32” Extra Large Checked: These are very large suitcases with a huge capacity. Due to their size, they could be too awkward and bulky for standard trips. Be warned, they might exceed size and weight restrictions. If you need larger suitcases, see the best luggage sets , which are ideal for a group trip or for an international move.

Domestic Airlines Carry On Luggage Size Guide

International Airlines Carry On Luggage Size Guide

Unless you’re planning to move abroad or will be in a single location for an extended period of time, you should never use a suitcase that’s over 27″.

Also, keep track of your baggage weight, especially if you’re using a suitcase over 25″ where it’s easy to pack unnecessary items because you have more space. This article on the best lightweight luggage under 5 lb is very instructive on the implications of weight. For checked luggage, many airlines limit you to 30 kg / 50 lb.

Compass Rose Digital Luggage Scale

Since airlines are becoming increasingly strict about baggage allowances, use a luggage scale to always ensure you meet weight requirements. This will save you the headache of having to check in your carry on because you’ve gone over the limit, and pack it into a personal item so if you buy anything to take home, you’re not exceeding weight for your return.

And always remember to check with each airline you’re flying with to see the latest baggage policies as they can change. Read our article on the best luggage scales to bring with you!

Tip: Be sure to check the luggage allowance of all the airlines you’ll be traveling with. Different airlines have different size requirements, so don’t get caught unprepared. Read my guide on how to stop overpacking and learn to maximize space.

Make sure your luggage is durable, has sturdy zippers, and great organization.

#2 Choosing Luggage Features

Today’s suitcases come with a wide variety of cool features that affect transportation, packing, and protection. One thing to keep in mind is that the more bells and whistles there are, the heavier the bag!

If your goal is to pack light, try to choose a suitcase that weighs less than 5 lb or 2 kg like the ones mentioned in this article .

Here’s a quick guide to understanding various suitcase features:

• Color: Select a bag with a recognizable color or print so it can be easily spotted on the luggage carousel and not mistaken for someone else’s bag. Try and stay away from white or cream; it’s more likely to get dirty. You can also buy luggage straps to easily identify your suitcase.
• Wheels: Luggage either has two or four wheels. Suitcases with two wheels tend to be lighter but have the risk of tipping over if they’re not balanced. I find these easier to wheel if I’m running through the airport and they’re also easy to yank over a curb to maneuver uneven streets. On the other hand, four wheels stand upright, plus they’re easier to pull sideways on an airplane and are easy to maneuver outside. Suitcase wheels should be high quality, similar to skateboard wheels. Hard plastic wheels are more likely to crack or break when dropped. (I’ve had this happen while roaming the streets of Paris while hunting for my hotel!)
• Telescoping Handles: Make sure your case’s handle is sturdy and easily retractable. Before committing to a suitcase, walk with it to make sure it doesn’t hit you on the heels as you walk. It shouldn’t drag too far behind you, annoying other travelers. You might also appreciate a padded handle for comfort. I prefer a single handle because it helps minimize luggage weight, but some travelers prefer a double handle because they find it sturdier.
• Expandability: If you want to bring extra items home, an expandable suitcase is great for this. However, be warned: expanding your suitcase may mean it no longer fits in the overhead bin, and you could be charged to check it. However, for those of us who love to shop for souvenirs (guilty!), then review the best lightweight expandable luggage so you can avoid this problem.
• Compartments: Pockets and compartments are a useful feature to help organize all your belongings; for example, keep your 3-1-1 liquids bag in an external pocket so it’s easy to locate at the airport.
• Zipper: Zippers make luggage susceptible to water damage from rain. Opt for hard cases with a latch system to avoid this. If you choose a suitcase with zippers, select pulls crafted from tough metal or durable plastic.
• Safety Features: Whether they have zippers with space for a travel lock or an internal locking system, never buy a suitcase you can’t lock. Many suitcases nowadays have TSA locks, or if they don’t, it’s easy to buy a travel lock to secure your belongings.
• Waterproof Materials: Make sure your suitcase is made of water-resistant materials or has been treated with a moisture-resistant sealant on the inside to help keep your belongings dry. This works in the rain and also if baggage handlers lay your bag on dirty, wet, or sticky surfaces. Jane Attard, CEO of BusinessKnowHow.com , suggests that you line the top and bottom of the suitcase with plastic, like a dry cleaning bag. That way, even if your suitcase does get wet, your clothing can stay dry, or try suitcase covers to help keep your suitcase clean and long-lasting.
• Piggy Back Clip: A looped clip on the top of the bag, known as a piggy back clip, allows you to clip a second bag to the larger one–bonus! If your suitcase doesn’t have one, you can buy an attachment like this one . Another way to solve this problem is to buy a bag with a trolley sleeve or backpack with a trolley sleeve .
• Side Handles: Top and side handles make maneuvering your luggage much easier, especially when you need to lift it to place it overhead on the plane or other transportation. Choose luggage with strong, durable handles that will withstand the weight of your belongings. This is also a good reason to pack light—you may need to lift a suitcase up several flights of stairs, especially in Europe!
• Tie-Down Straps: These stretchy, adjustable straps are great for helping you compress your belongings when everything’s in your suitcase. They also keep your personal belongings securely in place.
• Durability: Productivity and health coach Marcey Rader says, “High-quality luggage is a necessity. You’ll regret buying a ‘good enough’ bag when you are running down the terminal with your suitcase flopping along, and then your handle breaks! A quality piece of luggage is important because it can last a lifetime. Travel is stressful enough without having to worry about your suitcase.” That’s exactly what happened to me on a two-week trip to Europe. My friend took a cheap, massive 32″ suitcase to Europe, and the handle broke the second day of our trip. Because she had overpacked, I had to carry it for her because she had back issues. Always pay attention to reviews about sturdiness over time, and remember that luggage should be a thought-out investment, not a rash budget buy!

It’s important to choose a suitcase that you can lock to protect your belongings!

#3 Choosing Luggage With Safety Features

The best way to keep your luggage safe is to have travel insurance to cover a loss. When arranging your things, never pack valuables in a checked bag and store all valuables and travel documents in your hand luggage so you can keep an eye on them at all times.

Make your suitcase less accessible with any of these safety mechanisms:

Locks:  Most luggage nowadays has built-in TSA locks, but if you want extra security, a trusty lock is guaranteed to at least slow down a thief or put them off altogether.

Luggage Trackers: Many high quality suitcases include a pre-installed tracking device that you would monitor from an app. Or you can use a third-party tracker. These small devices link to your smartphone and are then placed inside your luggage (or on any item you want to keep track of). Then, through either GPS, Bluetooth, or Wifi, depending on the device, you can watch your suitcase be loaded onto the airplane, head to baggage claim, check in on it at your hotel, or be notified if it leaves your vicinity for whatever reason. The most popular ones are the Apple AirTags and Samsung Galaxy SmartTag for Android phones, but see the full list of the best luggage tags . It’s also wise to Include a waterproof label on each piece of luggage with your up-to-date contact information as well.

Cable Ties: A cheaper alternative to locks or luggage trackers, these theft deterrents are easy to install and come in a variety of colors, meaning your suitcase can be easy to spot. However, cable ties can be quite easily removed with a simple nail file.

Shrink Wrapping: Many airports now feature a shrink wrap station. Costing around $10 a pop, it’s a great way to deter people from slipping illegal items into your case or stealing from your bag. It’s also great for waterproofing your luggage!

Tip: Once you’ve landed, check your luggage right away, so you can quickly contact the airline and your insurer if anything is missing.

A high-quality suitcase will be durable and handle all kinds of terrain and environments.

#4 Choosing Luggage Based on Price

Travel luggage can be expensive, but it’s about to become your portable wardrobe for the duration of your travels, so it needs to last and not break or malfunction, as that can be stressful if it happens.

Overall, price generally reflects quality. Search around for the best reviews from experienced travelers and opt for a case that suits your style of travel. Many times, expensive bags will include a warranty of some kind; however, these suitcases with a lifetime guarantee are the wisest choice, so your purchase will always have protection.

Christina Ernst of VIP Alpine Tours/VIP Travel suggests steering clear from designer luggage, as it becomes more of a fashion statement than a quality choice for extreme traveling. You’re guaranteed to look stylish wheeling your Louis Vuitton through the airport, but not dragging it through the tropical terrain of Asia; designer cases are also more susceptible to thieves.

These are the top suitcase brands that are reader-approved (in order of popularity):

• Away Luggage
• Briggs and Riley

In terms of price, spending between $200-$500 is a good range for quality, barring that there are some terrific suitcases under $200 and popular brands over $500, like Tumi.  Review the best luggage brands to see ALL the reader favorites!

Here are some suitcase shopping tips:

Shop Around: Visit all the websites mentioned above or check Macy’s , Nordstrom , or Amazon to shop around and compare features/prices.

Check In Person: Visiting a physical store will allow you to test the bag before purchasing. This way you can determine which style, size, and brand suits you the best.

Free Returns: If you are online shopping, order your case well in advance so you can return it if it’s not suited to you. Look for a retailer that offers free returns, such as Amazon and Nordstrom . If you want to know about clothing or shoes, these are the best travel brands with free returns and shipping .

Look for Deals: Sign up for email updates from online retailers to receive discount offers and shop seasonal sales to get the best bargains. That’s what I do, and have scored some beloved suitcases that way!

Left: Compass Rose Medium Packing Cubes | Right: Compass Rose Slim Packing Cubes

How to Organize Your Luggage?

Whether you choose a hardside vs softside suitcase, packing cubes and organizers are always recommended in order to maximize space.

You can use the fold and roll method to compress your clothing with slim packing cubes , fold larger items in a medium size, and downsize bulky items with compression cubes. Packing folders and travel clothes steamers are also popular with business travelers as they help minimize wrinkles.

Packing organizers also help you pack faster and more efficiently because each item has its own home making it easier to put your unpacked bag back together to fly home or move on to the next stop in your destination. Using organizers such as the Compass Rose packing cubes eases the process even further because they’re numbered and color coded helping you locate and pack clothing quickly.

Sharing the excitement earlier this year at Women’s Travel Fest with Deanna Debreacht, a long-time reader, who’s holding the new Medium Packing Cubes . So grateful to share this special moment with a fellow TFG!!!

And now the Compass Rose packing cubes are offered in two sizes: slim and medium! The slim size cubes measure 13 x 5 x 2.8, and the medium size cubes measure 2.8 x 13 x 8.5. Both fit an international carry on suitcase, and the medium size is great for bulkier items or items you may want to fold too. You can use them as the original set or mix and match them in whatever way works best for your trip! For example, you can use a slim cube and then add a medium cube for your packing purposes.

For a soft side suitcase, you can place packing cubes on top of each other, and in a hard suitcase, you can place them next to each other or stack them like shelves with the Compass Rose cubes.

In fact, check out the video below on the strategy I use with packing cubes, which allows me and thousands of women to travel carry on only!

Watch this video to start learning how to organize with packing cubes!

I also put together a five-part YouTube series showing you the different methods to use packing cubes for any kind of trip.

  Tip: Pack your suitcase the night before your trip to allow things to settle overnight.

Best Luggage Reviews

Below, you’ll find a list of all the suitcases that I own (or similar styles for the ones that are no longer available). I traveled full-time through 50 countries for over a decade, and as the owner of a packing website, I can guarantee they’re all tried and tested to ensure quality and durability. We’ve also added top reader picks that I don’t own (yet) to offer a full range.

Away The Carry On Hardside Suitcase (With the Nomad Lane Bento Bag )

 Editor’s Pick: Away The Carry On

This is my favorite option when it comes to carry on hardside luggage. It’s stylish, spacious, and has room for all of my belongings. I could travel with this suitcase anywhere for any length of time. When I’m traveling alone, I combine it with my Nomad Lane Bento bag as my personal item or with my Target Open Story Signature Commuter backpack if I’m traveling with my daughter.

I usually organize my clothing inside the suitcase with packing cubes, but if I’m going on a short or business trip, I pack the majority of my clothing with hangers in one half of the suitcase so all I have to do is unpack and repack in one step.

Details: 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″ / 55.1 x 36.7 x 22.9 cm (Exterior) | 7.5 lbs / 3.4 kg | Hardside | 4 Spinner Wheels | Lifetime Warranty

Buy it : Away

Watch my Away Carry On unpacking video !

The Monos Carry-On Pro is pictured at my beachfront ranch in El Salvador !

Monos Carry On With Laptop Compartment

For short trips, I bring my Monos Carryon Plus plus my Rebecca Julian backpack or crossbody purse. I don’t bring a personal item because the Monos has a built-in laptop sleeve. For longer trips however, the built in laptop compartment takes up too much space.

Bonus points for their amazing customer service! Initially, Monos sent me the wrong color. Their customer service was incredible and replaced my bag with the correct color immediately with no questions asked.

Details: 22″ × 14″ × 9″ / 55.6 x 35.6 x 22.9 cm (Exterior including wheels) | 7.8 lbs / 3.5 kg | Hardside | 4 Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty

Buy it: Monos

Watch my Monos review video !

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable, 21”

Reader’s Choice: Travelpro Maxlite 5

This is one of the most lightweight soft side suitcases on the market and our readers LOVE them. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 21” comes in a range of sizes, both international and domestic, along with 2-wheeled and 4-wheeled versions. It’s our best selling suitcase!

If you want more Travelpro options, the 19” Maxlite 5 is a perfect carry on size for European flights, and the 20” Maxlite 5 has all the same great features but is a little more compact to fit in almost any overhead bin with ease.  Finally, the 22” Maxlite 5 upright model is a slightly bigger option, so it’s ideal for domestic flights or longer getaways where you’re packing carry on only.

Details: 21” x 14” x 9” / 53.3 x 35.5 x 22.9 cm (Case dimensions) | 5.4 lbs / 2.4 kg | Softside | 4 Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty

Buy it: Amazon | Travelpro

Watch my Travelpro unpacking video !

Osprey Ozone 2-Wheel Carry-On Luggage, 40L/21.5″

Osprey Ozone Soft Side Luggage

I traveled as a perpetual nomad for almost a decade. For extended travels, Osprey was and still is my go-to brand. The quality is unparalleled, the features are sturdy yet lightweight, and their products are incredibly durable, meeting the demands of globe trotting through South Asia, Africa, Central America, and everywhere in between.

I initially traveled exclusively with their backpacks ( Aura 65 and Farpoint 55 ), I eventually moved on to their soft side wheeled luggage. I’ve owned the

Osprey Transporter Wheeled 38L Luggage and Osprey Transporter 44L backpack , but the winning style was the Osprey Ozone 2 . It was so lightweight and versatile. I loved it and still do. (And it has a 16” laptop sleeve too!)

Details: 21.5” x 14” x 10” / 55 x 35 x 25 cm | 4.4 lbs / 2.03 kg | Softside | 2 Spinner Wheels | Lifetime Warranty

Buy it: Amazon

Watch my Osprey review video!

Delsey Paris Helium DLX Softside Expandable Luggage, 20″

Delsey Carryon Softside Suitcase

While I travel with hard side suitcases nowadays, soft side luggage was my preferred option on long trips of 4+ weeks. Delsey always seemed to have the most lightweight and functional styles so I’ve owned a range of these styles over the years. One of the newest is the Helium 20” which has great organization, is only 6.7 lb, and expands an extra 2” in case you want more packing space.

Details: 20” x 13.5” x 9” / 50.8 x 34.2 x 22.86 cm (Interior) | 6.72 lbs / 3.04 kg | Softside | 4 Double Spinner Wheels | 10-Year Limited Warranty

Buy it: Amazon | Bloomingdale’s | Kohl’s

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage Set, 20″/24″

Samsonite 20” and 24” 2-Piece Suitcase Set

I bought this Samsonite Omni PC  luggage set during a Prime Day Sale and the large suitcase has been one of my favorites to use when I travel with my daughter. I pack only this one large bag for both of our belongings and it is more than enough space for both of us.

In addition, I bring one backpack as a personal item and carry her travel stroller on board the plane. Learn more about my packing strategy with this suitcase!

Details of 20” Samsonite: 20″ x 15″ x 9.75” / 50.8 x 36.8 x 24.1 cm | 7.1 lbs / 3.2 kg | Hardside | 4 Spinner Wheels | 10-Year Limited Warranty

Details of 24” Samsonite: 24” x 17.5” x 11.5” / 60.9 x 44.4 x 29.2 cm | 8.3 lbs / 3.6 kg | Hardside | 4 Spinner Wheels | 10-Year Limited Warranty

Buy the set: Amazon

Travelpro Maxlite Air Hardside Expandable Checked Suitcase, 25”

Travelpro Maxlite Air Checked Suitcase

My second favorite large checked suitcase is the Travelpro Maxlite 25” suitcase . It’s slightly smaller than the aforementioned Samsonite, and looks more elegant, too. I pair this only with my Tumi Voyageur backpack as a personal item and don’t bring a carry on on.

Details: 24.5” x 16.25” x 11” / 62.2 x 41.2 x 27.9 cm (Case dimensions) | 8.5 lbs / 3.8 kg | Hardside | 8 Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty

Delsey Paris Turenne Wheeled Trunk, 26″ 

Delsey Turenne Trunk Carry On Luggage

If you’re looking for a medium size suitcase, the Delsey Turenne 26   is so cute!! I get so many compliments when I travel with it. It’s spacious yet smaller than a larger size checked bag. While I prefer to travel carry-on only as a solo traveler, this trunk is my choice when I need something slightly bigger.

Details:   26.5” x 14” x 14.25” / 67.3 x 35.5 x 36.1 cm (Interior) | 8.5 lbs / 3.8 kg | Hardside | 4 Spinner Wheels | Limited 10-Year Warranty

Buy it: Bloomingdale’s | Amazon (Set)

July Carry On Light Suitcase, 21”

July Carry On Luggage

The July Carry On Light 21” carry on is made of vegan-friendly materials, has a strong German polycarbonate shell, and has a 32L capacity, allowing you to maximize space without wasting it on the suitcase.

The luggage features an ultra-light shell with  360° double spinner wheels, sturdy YKK zippers, and an integrated TSA lock. Its many features make it a reader favorite!

Details:   21.25” x 14.17” x 7.5” / 53.9 x 35.9 x 19.05 cm (Exterior including Wheels) | 3.9 lb / 1.76 kg | Hardside | 4 Spinner Wheels | Lifetime Warranty

Buy it: July

Tumi 19 Degrees Expandable Spinner Carry-On, 22″

Tumi Hardside Luggage

Amazing for business travel, the Tumi 22” 19 Degree hardside is expandable in case you need to pack more for a work trip. It includes sturdy zippers and a lever lock system.

Tumi has a higher price point, but users consider them to be impeccable quality and a long-term investment. One even says pushing their suitcase at the airport is like floating on a cloud. It’s sleek, too!

Details:  21.8″ x 14″ x 9″ / 54.6 x 33 x 22.8 cm | 7.9 lb / 3.58 kg | Hardside | 4 Spinner Wheels | 5-Year Warranty

Buy it: Amazon | Nordstrom | Tumi

it luggage Census Softside Carry-On, 22″

IT Softside Luggage

The IT Census Suitcase combines good looks with practical construction. The outer material is flexible and resilient, embossed with an attractive ribbed design that adds a protective element. The double-spinner wheels and compact dimensions make it a joy to zip around with, too!

The Census carry-on can be used as hand luggage on most major airlines* and is also ideal for business trips or quick weekend getaways.

Details : 21.7” x 14” x 8.5” / 55.1 x 35.5 x 21.5 cm (Exterior) | 5.29 lb / 23.9 kg | Softside | 8 Spinner Wheels | 10 Year Warranty

Buy it: Amazon | Walmart (Set)

Briggs & Riley Baseline Expandable Carry-on, 22″

Briggs & Riley Softside Carry On Suitcase

The Briggs & Riley Baseline suitcase is one of their best-selling carry-on styles and is perfect for domestic travel. It’s a sophisticated bag that features the brand’s CX™ expansion-compression system, which increases packing capacity and then compresses down to keep contents secure.

It also has a built-in tri-fold garment folder with a foam roll bar for those delicate items you don’t want to be wrinkled, which makes this suitcase a good pick for business travelers as well!

Details: 22” x 14” x 9-11.5” / 55.9 x 35.6 x 22.9-29.2 cm (Exterior) | 10 lb  / 4.6 kg | Softside | 4 Double Spinner Wheels | Lifetime Warranty

Buy it: Amazon | Nordstrom |  Briggs & Riley

Note: The majority of the suitcases mentioned above offer a 19” international carry on version.

Now that you are armed with knowledge about choosing the best luggage, remember that your onboard personal item is an accompaniment to your suitcase. A small carry on bag can be anything from a backpack to a weekender to a crossbody purse that would fit under the seat in front of you. Read our ultimate guide to choosing the best personal item to learn more!

To create your perfect luggage set, read these articles for the top personal item recommendations:

• Best Weekender Bags 
• Best Backpacks With a Trolley Sleeve
• Best Travel Bags With Trolley Sleeves
• Best Under Seat Luggage
• Best Convertible Backpacks
• Best Crossbody Purses and Ant-Theft Bags
• Best Waterproof Backpacks (for adventure travel)
• Best Travel Tote Bags
• Best Business Backpacks
• Best Laptop Bags

How do you choose travel luggage, and what brands are your favorites? Share in the comments!

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We hope you enjoyed this guide to choosing the best luggage for travel. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

56 comments.

I’ve recently been considering the switch from soft-sided to hard-sided luggage. I really appreciate the comparisons, and especially the graphics showing different sizes all lined up!

I’ve been debating about adding a soft side back into my rotation. Thanks for the fantastic suggestions!

Love these ideas!

Just returned from a week long trip to Los Angeles with my granddaughter. I love my Travelpro that you recommended, we easily maneuvered through LAX from plane to bus to terminal to the rental car shuttle…It would have been difficult with anything heavier and bulkier. We had a curious conversation with the TSA staff on our return when we had to explain why we had stuffed Starling birds in our luggage…we had just taken a taxidermy class and had our birds going home with us!! It was a first for them, glad the bags were easy to open and repack!!!

Thanks so much for the great ideas!

There is so much helpful information here, thank you. I have an older, softside Eagle Creek international carryon that I love. They don’t make this particular style anymore, unfortunately. Since you so highly recommend the Away bag, I would like to see if I can find a store that sells Away luggage so I can check it out in person.

This is such a helpful article. I actually bought the travelpro Maxlite! It’s suuuuuper light and I can’t wait to use for my trip to Europe next year!

This is such a helpful article, thanks for sharing!

Thank you, thank you, thank you! There is so much helpful information here. I’m in the process of purchasing new luggage with the knowledge of using it for European travel too. There are so many options out there, but you really help focus in.

I absolutely love Away luggage!

I love my Travel Pro luggage.

After much research and reading tons of reviews on the TFG page I decided to purchase the Away Flex Bigger Carry On suitcase for me and my husband. We have traveled with them on several trips already, but they were a true standout on a six week retirement trip to Dubai and SE Asia. For us, there’s no turning back, it’s Away all the way for our travel needs.

Choosing the right travel bag is a personal decision that depends on your travel style, needs, and preferences. Like a fashionista 😀 I really prefer my travel bag to be in style too. I buy all my bags from Louenhide but my travel bag is my favorite. I bought this travel bag in color-blush Ezra https://www.louenhide.com.au/products/alexis-weekender-travel-bag

After reading this article, I purchased a new TravelPro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner in the 22″ size. I got the purple color so it would stand out in case I do end up having to check it. I love all the fashion tips too. 🙂

What about duffel bags that don’t roll? I dislike backpacks, and I worry that a wheeled bag could induce me to pack excessively. What recommendations do you have?

Hi Bobby, for duffle bags that don’t have wheels here are some recommendations from the TFG community: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-duffle-bag/

And if you’re worried about overpacking, had you considered using a lightweight backpack instead: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-ultralight-backpacks/

Hope this helps you in your search!

Thank you for this! My cheap hard sided checked suitcase broke on my last trip. Fortunately the liner prevented my things from spilling out, but I will need to replace it before my next trip!

Thank you so much for all the helpful tips. I went to London, Scotland, and Ireland this summer and used packing cubes for the first time. What a life saver.

Thanks for all the great information!

I’m starting to prepare for a trip so this article was very helpful. Both my husband and I need to buy new luggage. Thank you!

I love your travel tips! Especially the packing cube advice! Because of you I’m biting the bullet and taking a carry on or a 16 day tour of Croatia, Slovenia and Italy! I know I can do it! (thanks to all your great advice!!)

Nice article. Thanks

So glad you enjoyed it! ?

Hi, do the clothes crinkle when you pack them like that (in the how to use packing cubes…) or does it stay folded and you don’t have to iron them?

Hi Hailey, if you’re worried about your clothes becoming wrinkled in a packing cube check out this post for our readers top tips on how to avoid them: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-pack-clothes-without-wrinkles/ Hope this helps! ?

Thanks Alex for the fast and helpful reply! 🙂

Has anyone tried putting their carry on luggage on the floor in front of their seat? Is this allowed, what sort of luggage could I use. I am a short person and find it very uncomfortable not being able to put my feet on the floor for hours at a time. Could I use my case under my feet.

Hi Yvonne, thank you for reaching out. Many of our readers like to use their luggage which fits under the seat or a backpack to lean and rest their feet on. You could use something like this: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-under-seat-luggage/ I would also highly recommend that you join TFG’s free facebook community and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous group of helpful female travelers that have the best packing advice and recommendations to share. Hope this helps answer your question. Happy travels! ?

If I’m going on a 2 night and 3 day trip to Washington DC, what size suitcase do you recommend.

Hi Hannan, thank you for reaching out. You may find our 10 step guide to packing for a short break a good place to start: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/weekend-packing-list/ Maybe something like one of these: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-under-seat-luggage/ Also you don’t mention if you are traveling with someone else, but you may also find this video helpful for ideas: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGH-iwFf_1U&t=13s I would highly suggest that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there about luggage for a few nights away: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and recommendations to share. Hope this helps. Have an amazing time! ?

I LOVE my Delsey hard sided suitcase. I bought it last minute for a trip and can’t believe I didn’t do it sooner. It’s light, it spins so great (yes, I spend a great deal of time spinning it because it’s fun), and it comes in great colors. Don’t let the salesperson try to talk you into their choice of color, go for the one you want!

I forgot to add, watch for sales. I got mine at Macy’s for 65% off and they do have regular sales.

Hi Sally, thank you for sharing your recommendation for the Delsey hard sided suitcase. For international and domestic travel, I like the Delsey Turenne. You may enjoy this video where I explains why I like the Delsey Turenne: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bbTGS6YUoE Hope you enjoy your suitcase on many fun and exciting adventures! ?

Is there a hard sided carry-on bag that is not designed with the space divided half and half? I’m looking for a bag that has one deep side ( to fit my GEARPACK) and one shallow side or just a flap. Is there such a thing? Thank you

Hi Liz, thank you for your question! Have a look at this post for some more options for a hard case suitcase: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-hardside-luggage-for-women/ To get you the most feedback, I have gone ahead and posted your question on TFG’s facebook page. Our readers have the best recommendations to share so please keep an eye out for their replies from Friday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/ Hope you find one which is suitable and that you like! 🙂

I’m very late to this thread but did you ever find a suitcase that wasn’t half and half. I like the hard shell but like you I hate the opening of the bag. They don’t fit on the hotel luggage racks and you have to put them on the floor. I’ve just returned from 5 weeks in Europe and the USA and I need a new bag. My bag is now 8 years old and has seen some rough travels.

My daughter is studying abroad for 2 1/2 months to Italy. I bought her an Osprey backpack for getaways but she needs a checked bag. And she’ll probably over pack! Any recommendations would be helpful.

Hi Laurie, to get you the best feedback I have gone ahead and posted your question on TFG’s facebook page. Our readers have the best advice so keep an eye out for their replies from Friday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/ For other options for suitcases, have a look at this post: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/suitcase-recommendations-20-travel-experts-reveal-top-luggage-brands/ For some help planning her packing, take a look at this 10 step guide to packing for Italy: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-italy/ It may be a good place to start. Hope this helps! Hope you daughter has a wonderful time studying in Italy!! 🙂

Going to Cabo for a 7 day trip. What would be the ideal luggage size for 7 days?

Hi Keith, thanks for your question! We’ll share your question here so the author of the article can reply. 🙂

Hi can you recommend a suitcase for travelling for around 3/5 months.

Hi Claudette, thanks for your comment! Take a look at this article on the top luggage brands of 2018: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/suitcase-recommendations-20-travel-experts-reveal-top-luggage-brands/ Hope this helps! 🙂

Hi can u plz tell me… How can I buy trolly by liters in online.. I can’t able to figure out … Plz help me… 20kg means how many liters ??

Hi Manasa, you can look for a converter online like this one: http://www.convertunits.com/from/liter/to/kilo+gram

This article is so helpful. I’m looking at purchasing luggage for an upcoming trip and was wondering if you had any thoughts regarding two wheel vs four wheel luggage?

Thanks! This article might help shed some light on this: https://travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-choose-the-best-luggage-for-travel-abroad-smart-buying-guide/

Forma 30 day trip to Europe (several cities) what size suitcase should I take? Should I take a carry on too? Thanks 🙂

Wow this sounds awesome 🙂 Personally I would do carry-on only for this trip, so a huge suitcase isn’t necessary, but it depends on what you are doing and how much you want to take. Check out these articles for more tips on how to pack for this kind of trip http://bit.ly/29ngSND & http://bit.ly/28U5J65

I like my luggage lock but people please put in a number that is hard to figure out. Most people use the number 1234 and then dont understand how people figure it out. Please dont be unintelligent about it

What about duffel bags of the non-roll kind? I don’t like backpacks and I think a wheeled suitcase might give me too much temptation to overpack. Do you have any suggestions?

Thanks so much

For regular duffles, personally I like having the alternate option of rolling them if they feel heavy after a while. Try checking out the brands suggested as they usually have non rolled versions too: https://travelfashiongirl.com/rolling-duffle-bags-the-best-alternative-to-wheeled-backpacks/

Excellent tips shared. I particularly liked the safety measures which you mentioned in the blog. http://www.ricardobeverlyhills.com/

What is the orange back in the picture? I’ve been looking for a bag like that!

Hi Andrea, it’s just the one from the Stock photo 🙂

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Best Size Luggage For A 7 Day Trip

Table of Contents

Best Size Suitcase for A One Week Trip

There are plenty of options available if you're looking for the right size suitcase for your one-week vacation. Whether you're planning a short city break or a longer road trip, there are plenty of travel suitcases available for you to consider. 20", 22", 24", and 26" are considered to be the popular sizes and best suitcase sizes for your 1-week trip.

This travel bag makes packing easier thanks to its lightweight construction. You don't need to worry about dragging it around with you, either.

If you're only travelling by plane, then this lightweight luggage is ideal since it doesn't weigh very much.

Since the wheels fold down flat, you can easily store them away once you reach your final destination.

This means that you won't have to lug your suitcase through airports and train stations every single day. Domestic carryon size must meet size requirements at the airport, for you to avoid any delay in your flight.

CHESTER 26″ Spinner

For those seeking the perfect carry-on suitcase for their next long-haul flight, the Chester 26″ Spinner is definitely worth checking out. Made by a trusted brand, they feature quality materials that ensure years of service.

Not only does it look great, but it's also built to last and is the best size for carry-on luggage.

Your typical carry-on suitcase doesn't cut it for trips lasting several days. You'll probably accumulate a lot of stuff while travelling and need a bigger space to store it all.

A traditional suitcase may not provide enough room for your clothes and belongings, so they'll end up strewn throughout your hotel room. However, a special size luggage system for short trips makes life easier.

Samsonite Omni 24″ Spinner

A Samsonite 24-inch spinner holds enough clothes for a week's worth of trips. It's lightweight and compact, making it ideal for day trips or weekend breaks away from home.

Choose between two interior storage compartments, including one zip pocket, for extra organization. No matter where you'll be spending your next adventure, a Samsonite 24-inch spinner is a great option for packing light."

Coolife Luggage Expandable 24″ Spinner

Travel luggage needs to fit your needs, whether it's a long weekend escape or a weeklong trip across Europe. There are lots of great choices for you to consider, including Coolife luggage expandable 24-inch spinner cases.

These coolers come with built-in wheels and telescoping handles to make them easier to roll along. Each cooler has two compartments that keep drinks cold or hot for hours at a time.

These cooling bags are perfect for shorter trips or days away at the beach because they hold enough ice packs for multiple beverages and snacks. You'll find that they are durable and lightweight, making them ideal travel companions during your next journey.

Best Carry-on Luggage For A Week-long Trip

Whether you're planning a quick weekend trip or a week-long family vacation, this lightweight travel case is the best choice for you.

Just pack your clothes, toiletries and any other essentials you may need for the upcoming trip inside and take it along wherever you go.

This lightweight travel bag weighs less than ten pounds, making it easy to drag around with you everywhere you go. Once you arrive at your final destination, it's simple to unroll the wheels and fold them flat to save space.

Not only does this lightweight travel bag make packing easier, but it also makes unpacking simpler. All you'll have to do is pull it off the baggage carousel and place it onto the conveyor belt so you can collect your bags.

Check out our collection of luggage online today. There are affordable travel cases for backpackers, luxury roller bags and durable wheeled luggage for those who prefer a traditional suitcase.

CHESTER 22″ Spinner

This is a great way to pack light if you're travelling for a week at a time. It's especially helpful if you're only going by air, as it weighs less than 10 pounds.

All you need is a backpack, and you'll be ready to explore wherever your travels may lead you that should be the quality choice of a quality piece.

The wheels fold down flat, making it easy to store away once you reach your destination. This means that it won't weigh too much during your entire trip, so you won't spend any extra time dragging it along.

Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds 20″ Spinner

This carry-on suitcase is great for those who want to pack light and avoid lugging a heavy suitcase around.

Its wheels fold down flat and you don't need to worry at all about dragging it around the airport. Plus, with its double wheel, it folds down flat so you can stash it away once you're done flying.

If you want to save space on your trip, then this Kenneth Cole suitcase is perfect for you. It's made from lightweight material and is pretty compact, making it easy to fit into overhead compartments.

It's not too bulky, though, so it's perfect if you plan on travelling a lot by air.

Tips For Buying Luggage

There are generally two types of luggage available: soft-sided and rigid. A soft-sided suitcase is just that, meaning that no matter how much stuff you pack, it will compress down to fit in the same volume.

On the downside, they're quite flimsy, and the zipper can become damaged fairly easily. Rigid cases, however, are sturdier, providing greater protection against bumps and scratches.

A rigid suitcase should provide enough padding to prevent damage to any items you're carrying. Be wary of cases that only cover the bottom half of your backpack, as that'll leave you exposed to rain and dust.

It should have a combination lock or alternative lock because durable travel locks are necessary for travelling. You might also rely on your trusty lock or three-digit TSA lock which suggests the best locks for security because it has the best lock positions.

If you're travelling abroad, ask your airline about carry-on restrictions. Many airlines have strict rules regarding carry-ons, and you might find yourself having to pay a fee to check your baggage.

Ask your airline about specific regulations regarding your destination, and check online to find out if there's something you shouldn't bring.

Choose a suitcase that fits comfortably under your arm, and avoid ones that weigh too much. If possible, try to pick up a piece of luggage on arrival rather than buying one on your way through security.

Try to take along a small backpack that isn't overly bulky; if you do have to buy a new one during your stay, opt for a smaller version instead of the large, heavy one you took on holiday last year.

Before paying for luggage, compare prices online and carefully review reviews for the brand you're interested in.

Why Bring A Suitcase When Traveling?

"While travel is fun, it isn’t always easy. Carrying lots of luggage makes life difficult. Weighing down your back, carrying heavy loads on your shoulders and trying to find places to store everything aren’t easy tasks. You might end up spending hours unpacking and repacking your suitcase.

Not only does this make travelling more challenging, but you probably won’t enjoy yourself as much because you’ll be tired and stressed out.

Here’s an alternative approach: bring just enough clothes and accessories to last your entire trip. You can still dress well and look great while travelling.

You won’t spend any time worrying if you forgot something essential when you get to your destination—you already packed it. And since you brought fewer items, you’ll fit more comfortably in the overhead bins on planes, trains, boats and buses.

Whether you’re flying domestically or abroad, it’s helpful to prepare for any eventuality while you’re waiting for your flight. Keep handy a copy of your passport, tickets, itinerary, and other important information so you can breeze right through customs upon arrival.

Make sure your phone is fully charged so you can reach out to loved ones back home if anything goes wrong. Don’t forget your medication and medical supplies in case of emergency.

Also, stash a change of clothes in your carry-on so you can freshen up once you land.

“Laptop”, "smartphone", "camera", "tablet", "eBook Reader", "Headphones", "Charger", "USB", "Tripod" & "Power Bank".

Considerations When Selecting Luggage

When travelling for a week, there are several factors to consider when picking a suitcase.

You'll want to pick a bag that fits within your budget, is comfortable enough to travel with, has a lot of storage space, is durable, doesn't weigh too much and comes with plenty of packing cubes.

There are two main types of suitcases: soft-sided and rigid. Soft-sided suitcases tend to be less expensive, but are not very sturdy. Rigid suitcases, however, are usually heavier, more durable and costlier.

The materials used in making soft-sided baggage are typically lighter than those used in rigid suits, so they tend to feel flimsy.

Count the number of wheels on a suitcase. It should have at least four wheels. Some suitcases may only have three wheels instead of four, but it makes moving the bag easier. A suitcase with no wheels isn't very convenient.

Think about the handle needed if you intend to carry the bag yourself. Some suitcases have handles built in, while others require you to purchase a separate handle separately.

Check how much weight the suitcase holds. Don't buy a heavy suitcase unless you absolutely need it. Even though a lightweight suitcase might seem appealing because it won't weigh as much, it might still be uncomfortable.

And even though a heavyweight suitcase looks great on the store shelf, it might prove difficult to carry on aeroplanes and trains.

Luggage Size Selection

Your suitcase should maximize space while still fitting your needs. You'll want to consider your packing style and habits when making a decision. Some travellers carry only essentials, whereas others bring entire wardrobes.

Larger suitcases may cost less but weigh far more. Smaller ones tend to be lighter but require more work to pack and unpack.

If you plan on travelling internationally and bringing along laptops and tablets, you may need to travel light. In this case, a small laptop bag might fit your needs perfectly!

For best results, think about your lifestyle and preferences before buying a suitcase. A hard-sided suitcase comes with handles and wheels, allowing you to roll it across airports and train stations without any hassle.

Soft-sided cases usually provide more storage space and are easier to fold down while walking. Larger bags also tend to be heavier and less portable than smaller ones.

When deciding between a soft-sided or hard-sided suitcase, consider your packing styles and habits. If you plan on carrying fewer items or a larger backpack, a hard-sided suitcase may be the right choice for you.

Conversely, if you're travelling with multiple large pieces of equipment or clothing, then a soft-sided suitcase will probably be sufficient.

Suitcase Sizing Chart

Counting the number of wheels on suitcases isn't really necessary. Unless you plan on carrying an extremely heavy suitcase, there is no reason to count the wheels. However, if you want to, feel free to add up the total number of wheels.

You probably won't need to unless your suitcase is very large.

Consider checking how much weight the suitcase holds. Some lightweight suitcases weigh only 2 lbs., whereas others may hold up to 50 lbs! This means that if you plan to carry any extra baggage, you should consider getting a heavier suitcase.

Check out the handles. Are they comfortable? Do they fit well? Can you easily lift the suitcase? Depending on where you'll be travelling, you might want to consider buying a telescopic handle that allows you to extend the length of the handle.

Think about the storage space. Most suitcases come equipped with built-in compartments, including a shoe compartment and a garment bag.

Other suitcases include separate drawers for storing small items such as wallets, cell phones and sunglasses. Still, other suitcases have larger drawers that allow you to store clothing.

Your luggage doesn't necessarily have to match the exact dimensions listed on the chart. Instead, choose a case that fits within the parameters of most suitcases.

For example, if you usually travel with a medium-sized suitcase, a slightly larger suitcase is better than a tiny suitcase. But if you normally pack light, a small suitcase is ideal.

Choosing Luggage Components

There are two main types of luggage: soft-sided and carry-ons. Each comes with its advantages and disadvantages. You'll find the differences between the two below.

Look at the material. Soft-sided suitcases tend to be thinner and lighter, but they may not hold items securely enough if there isn't padding inside.

Hard-sided suitcases usually weigh more due to their thicker materials. However, they usually have extra padding inside and are easier to secure.

Count those wheels. Soft-sided suitcases tend to have fewer wheels than hard-sided ones. This makes getting them through narrow doorways easier and less tiring.

On the flip side, they are harder to manoeuvre around tight spaces and often require you to remove the wheel casings to move them.

Choosing Long-lasting Luggage

When you are planning a week-long trip somewhere, you'll want to pack light. You may already have a suitcase, but if not, there are several options available online.

A lot of people think that a hard-sided case is the only option when packing suitcases for long trips, but that doesn't mean they are right. Soft-sided cases can actually last longer than their hard-sided counterparts, so they are a great choice for travellers who plan on staying away for a week!

What makes a suitcase long-lasting depends on the material used. Although there are many types of materials, most cases fall under either the "hard side" or "soft side".

Hard-sided cases tend to be more durable and heavy-duty; however, they are generally heavier than their soft-sided counterparts.

If you are looking for something lightweight and portable, a combination of both a soft-sided and harden-sided suitcase is the way to go. These bags combine the portability of soft sides with the durability of hard-sided cases.

Choosing Safety Features In Luggage

Safety should be one of the most important factors when choosing the right suitcase for your trip. Whether you are travelling for work or pleasure, it's important to keep yourself safe.

Look for safety features on your luggage to avoid being injured during travel. Here are some tips for picking the safest case for your upcoming trip:

Larger airports may require larger suitcases. Large airlines typically prefer cases that weigh less than 22 pounds.

Lift handles are usually found on hard-sided models, although there are exceptions. Hard-sided models tend to last longer than soft-sided ones, especially if they are made of aluminium.

Aluminium tends to dent and break down quickly, which means that the bag won't be used for very long after purchase.

A large-capacity duffle bag makes for an ideal emergency kit. It can hold everything you need for survival in a disaster situation - including food, water, medical supplies, and communication equipment.

About this Guide

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

Editor's Note

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

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

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

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

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

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

July Carry On Essential

Size: 21.5 inches by 15 inches by 8.5 inches.

Price: $255.

Buy now: July.com .

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

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

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

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

Away The Bigger Carry-On

Size: 22.7 inches by 14.7 inches by 9.6 inches.

Price: $295.

Buy now: Awaytravel.com .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beis The Carry-On Roller

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

Price: $198.

Buy now: Beistravel.com .

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

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

Related: 5 best backpacks for every travel style

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

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

Monos Carry-On

Size: 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches.

Price: $255 (regular price $284).

Buy now: Monos.com .

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

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

Rimowa Original Cabin Carry-On

Size: 21.7 inches by 15.8 inches by 9.1 inches.

Price: $1,400.

Buy now: Rimowa.com .

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

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

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

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

Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Luggage

Size: 21 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches.

Price: $195.

Buy now: Calpaktravel.com .

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

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

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

Paravel Grand Tour Set

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

Price: $675.

Buy now: Tourparavel.com .

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

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

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On

Size: 21.25 inches by 15.25 inches by 10 inches.

Price: $179.

Buy now: Amazon.com .

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

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

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

Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner

Size: 22 inches by 14.9 inches by 10 inches.

Price: $120.

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

Related: Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card review

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

Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack

Size: 24 inches by 15 inches by 4 inches.

Price: $178.

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

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

Bottom line

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

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

Related: The best credit cards for online shopping

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• May 8, 2019

What To Pack for A Week Long Trip Checklist

**A note from team FTLO**

The airline industry is still feeling the effects of the Covid pandemic. As flights continue to be delayed, the risk of losing a checked bag increases dramatically. We HIGHLY RECOMMEND BRINGING ONLY A CARRY ON BAG .

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a novice adventurer setting out for the first time, the task of packing for any trip can seem daunting. But once you understand the basics of a holiday packing list , everything else is a breeze.

So, what actually needs to be on a 7-day packing list for vacation?

Read on for tips and lists of what to pack for a week trip (or join the FTLO Community   for even more inside info). We'll fill you in on how many clothes to pack for 7 days and provide in-depth info on how to pack for a week-long trip as well. Let's go.

How to Pack for a Week Long Trip

What to Pack for a Week Trip

Day Trip Packing Essentials

What Would FTLO Founder, Tara Cappel, Bring on Our Eight-Day Trip to Tuscany + Rome?

How to pack for a week long trip

We mentioned bringing only a carry-on earlier, but it's worth restating as it's something we're super passionate about. Losing luggage sucks, and it doesn't need to happen to you.

If you're only heading off on a week trip, do whatever you can to pack light so you don't need to check a bag. Use packing cubes; they're an absolute life-saver, and wear any bulky clothes you need to bring, so you've got more space in your luggage.

At the end of the day, when you're thinking about what to pack for a week trip, you could get away with taking very few items...just as long as you have your staple, versatile pieces in your travel packing list.

This isn't just for women either; it's one of those all-encompassing travel tips that men should think about when they travel as well.

Clothing Basics: Focus on nailing down the things you will definitely need at your destination. Is this a 7 day beach vacation packing list ? Do you need a rain jacket and rain boots? Bathing suit? Formal wear? Hiking clothes? For everything else, focus on versatility. A dark pair of jeans, for example, will take you from a day full of adventure, to an evening out on the town. Also, stick to neutral colors to facilitate mixing and matching. Finally, just remember, you can always reuse, mix-and-match, layer, wash, or even purchase clothes.

Toiletries: In most cases, 3 ounces of your basics (toothpaste, shampoo, face lotion, body wash, etc.) will probably be enough. After all, it’s only 7 days and it’s likely you can purchase those items locally if you need. Do, however, consider if there are certain items you might need for your destination that you don't normally use, like bug repellent, sunscreen, ear plugs or face wipes.

Consider the Weather and Activities

Do some research on the weather and find out what activities you'll be doing so you know exactly how many outfits you'll need need to bring for your next trip.

If it’s Cold: You don't necessarily need to pack much more, but your luggage could get bulky very quickly, so selecting a few key basics (versatile jacket, great pair of jeans, day-to-night shoes, a few long sleeves, all neutral colors) could make a big difference in minimizing your luggage, while still helping you maintain a chic wardrobe. Figuring out what to pack for a 7-day vacation in the winter may seem like a challenge, but with some research and preparation it can be done easily.

If it’s Hot: If you're going somewhere where you'll be sweating profusely, you might need a variety of basics to stay fresh. Packing mix-and-match items, like light tank-tops, blouses, shorts, t-shirts, or dresses, will not take up too much space and will ensure that you stay clean and trendy every day.

Activities: If you know what activities you’ll be doing, this will help you plan your clothing and gear. If you’re hiking a lot, then prioritize those socks, tanks, and hats, and consider sunblock and bug repellent. If you’re heading for the coast , you'll need a 7 day beach vacation packing list. Focus on the swimmies, trunks, and beachwear.

What to pack for a week trip

Essentials Packing List

ID (driver’s license for local trips, passport for international)

Airline tickets / e-ticket flight confirmation

Itinerary / accommodation / transportation confirmations

Medical insurance coverage (copies)

Prescriptions or medications

Phone or laptop

First aid kit (mini ones available at your local pharmacy)

A pen (will always come in handy!)

Useful Carry-on Items

Electronics (phone, computer, camera)

Chargers + adapters

Portable charger

Reusable water bottle (empty before TSA!)

Reusable tote

Snacks (dried fruit, granola, popcorn, crackers)

Sunglasses + prescription glasses

Ear plugs + neck pillow

Notebook + pen

Toiletries (under 3oz: toothbrush + paste, deodorant, hairbrush, face wipes, tissues, birth control + condoms, makeup, razors, nail clippers, shampoos and soaps, lotions, perfumes or colognes, chapstick, hair ties)

Change of clothes (so you can feel refreshed after a long flight)

Things to Leave Behind

Too many books and magazines

Big bottles of toiletries (you won't get past TSA)

That weird shirt you’ve never worn (if you've never worn it, you're not going to wear it now)

Lots of the same thing (you don't need 50 underwear; rule of thumb: one set per day)

Other things you never use (leave that board game behind!)

Clothing that doesn’t match the weather (if there's snow, you won't need shorts)

Depending on where your trip takes you, you'll almost certainly be heading out on day trips; it's important to think about these when you're packing as well.

City Adventure

A city day trip calls for lightweight, practical, and secure items.

Essential items include:

A lightweight backpack or crossbody bag for security

Portable phone charger to keep your device powered

Digital or print map of the city

Water bottle and snacks

Comfortable shoes for walking

Lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler indoor temperatures

Travel umbrella for unexpected showers

When heading to the beach for a day, you should focus on sun protection and hydration.

Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)

Beach towel or mat

Swimsuit and change of clothes

Hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing

Plenty of water and snacks

Beach umbrella or tent for shade

Sand-free bag to keep your belongings clean

Hiking Excursion

A day on the trails requires careful preparation to ensure safety and comfort.

Backpack with plenty of storage

Hydration pack or water bottles

Energy-rich snacks (nuts, dried fruit, protein bars)

Map or GPS device

First aid kit

Layered clothing for changing weather

Sturdy, comfortable hiking boots

Bug spray and sunscreen

Remember, the key to successful day trip packing is to anticipate your needs based on your destination and activities planned.

What would FTLO Founder, Tara Cappel, bring on our eight-day trip to Tuscany + Rom e ?

Weather (in June)

Tuscany High: 81 °F

Tuscany Low: 59 °F

Rome High: 83° F

Rome Low: 62° F

Outfit Essentials

In a nutshell: Bring enough so that you have something to wear every day given that you might sweat most days but not so much that you don't have room for new acquisitions.

4 tank tops or t-shirts

1-2 long sleeve shirts

3 summer dresses

2 pairs of shorts

1 maxi skirt

1 pair flowy pants or boyfriend jeans

1 linen onesie

2 evening outfits

1 sweater or shawl

1 summer scarf

1 leather jacket (that you may or may not want to purchase in Florence :)

1 pair of day-to-night sandals (2-inch wedge or chunky heel)

1 pair cute sneakers

1 bathing suit (you never know)

3 bras, 10 pairs of underwear, 3 pairs of socks (more if you want to work out)

Carry-on 'Must-haves'

The key here is to have everything you need to survive in case your bag is delayed!

Passport / ID

Phone + charger + adapter + *headphones*

Airline tickets / e-ticket confirmation

Medical prescriptions

Camera + charger

Reusable water bottle

Sunglasses + contact lenses/solution if you need it (always carry this on!)

Key toiletries (under 3oz)

Jacket + cozy socks for the flight

Change of clothes

Tara's Luggage Picks

TUMI Voyageur Carson Laptop Bag

Tripped Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes

DELSEY Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage

See more staff picks for luggage and carry-ons.

Now that you've nailed down all of your travel essentials and figured out what to pack for a week trip, you can let go of the stress and focus on the fun ! Who knows, maybe you'll even be one of those people who love packing soon.

If you’re interested in exploring the world with FTLO and an amazing group of travelers, check out our upcoming trips  or   join our community by filling out a profile,  and one of our Community Managers will help find the best destinations for you!

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• Travel Guides

How To Pack Just One Carry-On For A Week-Long Vacation

Heading off on an island vacation? Lucky you! Here's one piece of advice to start off your trip right: Pack only a carry-on bag. You'll save on checked bag fees, won't waste precious vacation time waiting at the luggage carousel, and never have to worry about your luggage getting lost. Plus, if you need to fly standby or your flight gets canceled, you'll be able to hop on the next available flight.

What's that you say? You're going away for a week? No problem! Here's a step-by-step guide to getting everything you need into one portable bag, all without having to shell out for expensive packing accessories. Let's go!

Plan before you pack

The key to packing light is getting organized before you place even one flip-flop in your roll-on.

First, consult the weather forecast for your destination. Only sunshine during your trip? Leave the raingear at home — one secret to packing light is to only bring what you need, without adding "what ifs" to the bag.

Next, check with your accommodations to see what in-room amenities and toiletries your hotel offers. Hairdryers and irons are standard at most properties, so no need to pack them. If they don't have irons, leave items that need to be ironed at home.

Remember the 3-1-1 rule for carry on luggage (one 1-quart bag with liquids no more than 3.4 ounces). Avail yourself of your lodging's toiletries when you can (many luxe spots even offer poolside suntan lotion). Do, however, throw in some individual laundry packs or a small container of detergent so you can wash clothes on the go.

Consider what you'll wear on the plane and what carry-on you'll bring

Now, before you put anything in a bag, make a list. Overpacking happens when you start grabbing drawers full of shirts and dropping them into your open bag (for a packing check list, see below). Write down every item you're going to bring on vacation.

Stick to a color scheme. A neutral background — think black, white, tan — with a few colorful accessories, such as a scarf or a sweater, will help limit what you're packing.

Wear your heaviest items on the plane. For example, if you're planning on hiking, wear your hiking boots on the way to your destination. For casual trips, wear sneakers and layers, including whatever outerwear you're bringing with you for cool evenings, such as a jacket or sweater. Basically, anything bulky that will take up a great deal of suitcase space should be worn (leave the sandals and shorts to pack in your bag).

Pro tip: When making your list, you should figure out what kind of bag suits you best. If you're not checking luggage, that means one in the overhead compartment and one below the seat. Look for a good, durable duffel bag or dependable roller that goes up top and a stylish backpack that stays with you. And be sure it's perfect for your laptop or tablet and headphones .

Fold, roll, and bag your clothes

Okay, you have your list and you know what you're wearing on the plane. Now it's time to pack your bag. Consult your list and lay out everything where you can see it. Do not add anything to this. The secret to traveling with a carry on bag is to not overstuff. Now consider the most space-efficient way to pack each item.

T-shirts and shorts should be rolled to both save space and cut down on wrinkling. Start with a shirt face down on a flat surface. Fold the arms back so you have a perfect square. Fold in half vertically. Now roll up from the bottom to the top — voila, a perfect cylinder.

Heavier materials, like khakis and sweaters, should be folded into squares.

For lingerie and delicate items such as bathing suits, use mesh lingerie bags (you can find these at most drug stores), which will allow security to see your items without actually touching them and keep small items organized.

Dress up. For dresses, skirts, blouses or dress shirts, place each item on a hanger, and place in individual plastic drycleaner bags. This keeps clothes wrinkle-free (the plastic reduces friction) and organized.

Pack your clothes strategically

Now you're ready to pack your bag. Stack square shapes first, then rolled items around those. Tuck shoes and flip flops into corners (and remember that shoes don't need to travel next to each other). Socks can be placed into shoes or into empty spaces. Place your toiletry bag on top of your perfectly folded clothes so you can reach it easily for separate screening. Then lay your plastic-wrapped dress clothes on top and fold it over to fit into the bag. Zip and go!

Pro tip: Even with just a carry-on bag, you should consider purchasing and using a set of packing cubes . By putting your clothing and accessories in these, packing is easier than playing Tetris.

What clothes to pack in your carry-on

3 shorts or skirts

2 dressy options (mix and match with accessories and outerwear)

1 outerwear — sweater or jacket

1 pair sneakers

1 pair dressy shoes

1 pair flip-flops

2 bathing suits

1 athletic outfit

Accessories (scarves, jewelry)

• Write everything down before you start packing.
• Lay out everything where you can see it.
• Do NOT add anything else to your suitcase once you have it packed.

Recommended

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

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

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

What we considered:

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

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

What size can a carry-on bag be?

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

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

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

What can’t I take in my carry-on?

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

Are carry-on bags free?

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

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines

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

• United Airlines

Top recommendations:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• Trip Planning
• Tech & Gear

The 8 Best Checked Luggage Bags, Tested and Reviewed

All great trips start with perfectly packed gear

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

How we tested, other checked luggage we tested.

• What to Look For

Frequently Asked Questions

Why trust tripsavvy.

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

If you’re heading off on vacation for more than a night or two, you’ll likely need a checked bag—and there are literally thousands from which to choose. The best will be durable, with a sturdy hard shell or soft fabric exterior capable of withstanding rough baggage handlers while hiding the worst of any wear and tear. An excellent checked bag should also roll smoothly and be easy to maneuver on many terrains and should make the most of its internal packing space with clever organization pockets and expansion features. 

To determine the best luggage options for various requirements and budgets, we tested 27 popular bags in the Dotdash Meredith lab. We reviewed each one for capacity, maneuverability, durability, organization, and value.

Best Overall

Samsonite winfield 2 hardside.

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

Excellent interior organization

Stellar handling

Potential for slight scuffing

The Samsonite Winfield 2 28-inch hardside spinner scored near-perfect marks in our testing, impressing us with its design and durability. A 100 percent polycarbonate shell offers the perfect blend of lightness and toughness, absorbing impact by flexing and then rebounding to its original shape. During our intense testing, we found that even dented corners instantly popped back into place, and contents were kept secure throughout. And, with a brushstroke exterior, any minor scratches or scuffs are camouflaged, keeping your luggage looking sleek for longer. 

The suitcase’s square shape and expansion option guarantee maximum capacity. Even when stuffed full, it retained its shape and size perfectly and offered plenty of space. In particular, we love the compression feature that keeps contents neatly in place and the full-zip interior divider that makes it easy to separate clean and dirty clothes. Once packed, the suitcase is also easy to maneuver thanks to its sturdy, retractable handle and four multidirectional wheels. Whether pulling it behind us or pushing it in front, we felt it performed admirably, even over rough surfaces and around multiple obstacles.

Other features include oversized zippers and a side-mounted, TSA-approved lock. The suitcase has a limited 10-year global warranty and comes in various colors, from charcoal to Nordic blue.

Dimensions: 31.4 x 20.4 x 13 inches | Weight: 11.13 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik

Best Budget

Kenneth cole reaction out of bounds suitcase.

• Maneuverability 4 /5

Allows for double-sided packing

Reinforced corners for added durability

Wide choice of bright colors

No expansion feature 

Difficult to handle on uneven terrain

Available online for less than half the price of our overall winner, the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 28-inch suitcase is ideal for those on a budget. It boasts a lightweight hard shell with molded corner guards for maximum impact resistance. Besides a few scuffs around the edges, it stood up well to our durability tests and should provide good resilience for long-distance trips. We especially love how spacious this bag is. Despite its compact appearance, our tester could easily pack a month’s worth of clothes and accessories. 

The interior is divided in two by a large zippered pocket, making it easy to organize your belongings. Compression straps keep everything in place during transit, while four multidirectional spinner wheels promise the smoothest ride possible on even terrain. We were impressed with its ability to spin in any direction while traveling through tight spaces; however, we did find that the suitcase became less easy to maneuver on rough surfaces. Overall, though, this bag is tough to beat price-wise and offers excellent value for money. 

Dimensions: 29.5 x 20.5 x 11.75 inches | Weight: 9.6 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: No

Best Hardside

Travelpro platinum elite hardside spinner.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

Trendy design

Stands up well to rough handling

Superb maneuverability

Not particularly lightweight

The Travelpro Platinum Elite large spinner suitcase features a 100 percent polycarbonate shell that flexes on impact to prevent cracking. With its textured finish, aluminum corner guards, and genuine leather trim, it’s definitely a fashionable choice—and one whose sleek looks survived our drop and bat tests, with only minor scuffing visible afterward. The clamshell interior boasts two zippered divider panels, adjustable hold-down straps, and more accessory pockets than our tester knew what to do with—including a water-resistant one for damp items.

We found that the zippers were exceptionally smooth on the main compartment, interior pockets, and the 2-inch expansion feature. We were also impressed with how well the suitcase handled over bumps, around obstacles, and across various terrains. This is due to Travelpro’s trademarked PrecisionGlide System, with no fewer than eight self-aligning spinner wheels. Finally, the bag comes with a lifetime warranty that even covers airline damage for the first five years.

Dimensions: 30 x 18 x 13.5 inches | Weight: 12.3 pounds | Wheels: 8 | Expandable: Yes

Best Softside

Travelpro platinum elite softside spinner.

• Design 4 /5

Tough, functional shell

Thoughtful internal structure

Performs well on all terrains

May be too big for some

If you’re in the market for the ultimate softside suitcase, this one from Travelpro is the largest spinner in the Platinum Elite line. In fact, it’s so spacious that our tester felt able to fit double the amount required by our testing standards—making it ideal for extended trips, moving houses, or the incurable overpacker. It features scuff- and stain-resistant fabric that proved its durability by surviving multiple falls and bat beatings without sustaining a scratch or dent. Leather accents and chrome zippers add to the overall aesthetic appeal. 

We loved the intelligent interior design, with just the right number of storage pockets and compartments—including a fold-out suiter for keeping your best clothes wrinkle-free. The exterior zippered pocket is another nice touch and is perfectly sized for your passport or wallet. The tapered expansion provides up to 2 inches of extra, tip-resistant packing space, while the sturdy wheels handle well on smooth and rough surfaces. We did find that the bag’s super-large size made it a little cumbersome for maneuvering in tight spaces, though.

Dimensions: 32.5 x 21 x 13.25 inches | Weight: 11.5 pounds | Wheels: 8 | Expandable: Yes

Best Splurge

Tumi alpha 3 packing case.

Innovative, long-lasting material

Generous capacity

Plenty of organizational features

Relatively heavy

Retailing for over $1,000, the Tumi Alpha 3 Short Trip suitcase is definitely a splurge and one that we felt was probably only worthwhile for frequent travelers. However, for those willing to invest, it will last: The suitcase features Tumi’s exclusive FXT ballistic fabric, which is extra durable and virtually abrasion-proof. With impact-resistant side panels and protective bumper rails, it’s no surprise that it survived our tests without any dents or scuffs. Bonus: It comes with a five-year warranty. 

The suitcase also stands out for its multiple exterior and interior pockets. We liked that the main compartment and the largest exterior pocket are protected by a special security zipper, while the removable garment sleeve was another highlight. A two-stage expansion system meant we could fit everything in easily with plenty of space for more, while a three-stage telescoping handle and four double-spinner wheels ensured premium maneuverability. Other benefits range from an integrated TSA lock and Tumi Tracer to optional monogramming.

Dimensions: 26 x 19 x 13 inches | Weight: 15.4 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Best Capacity

Delsey paris hardside spinner.

• Maneuverability 3.5 /5

Roomy with a deep clamshell design

Handles a variety of terrain and obstacles

Gorgeous, eye-catching hues

No internal pockets

Made from durable, lightweight polycarbonate, the Delsey Paris Helium Aero suitcase features a ridged exterior to help prevent damage—although it did show some minor scuff marks after our rigorous testing process. Nevertheless, we loved its amazing capacity, fitting everything on our list with plenty of space left over even before deploying the expansion feature. With a single divider separating the main compartment into two halves, interior organization options are relatively minimal. We suggest packing cubes for those who prefer a bit more structure. 

The suitcase has four double spinner wheels and a telescopic handle that locks in two different positions to enable two- or four-wheeled use. We found it easy to push or pull on smooth surfaces and a breeze over bumps, but it was more difficult to maneuver on gravel. Soft-touch top and side carry handles and an integrated TSA combination lock complete the package. There are several vibrant colors to choose from; we felt that the high-shine jewel tones would be particularly easy to spot on the luggage carousel. 

Dimensions: 31.75 x 20.75 x 12.75 inches | Weight: 12.5 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Best Design

Roam the check-in.

• Capacity 4 /5

Potential to create a completely unique piece

Rolls easily over different terrain

100-day free trial

Relatively expensive

Could be more spacious

If you’re looking for an on-trend and totally out-of-the-box suitcase, this one from Roam is probably for you. Some of its features are standard: the polycarbonate shell, the telescoping handle, the four spinner wheels, and the TSA lock. Our tests found each to perform at the top end of the spectrum, with absolutely no visible damage after our rough handling process and beautifully smooth maneuverability even on gravel. Other elements, such as the water-repellent zippers and internal compression boards, are less expected. 

Perhaps most exciting is that this suitcase is genuinely customizable, with options to choose the color of every aspect, from the front and back shells to the zippers, bindings, and wheels. There’s even a monogram patch on the back for that extra-personalized touch. Don’t want to choose your own colors? Roam also offers a selection of colorways inspired by and named after different travel destinations. You can choose to make your suitcase expandable, which we’d recommend since a relatively limited capacity was this bag’s only drawback.

Dimensions: 26 x 17.5 x 10 inches (non-expandable), 26 x 17.5 x 10.5-12.5 inches (expandable) | Weight: 9.3 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes (if chosen as an optional extra)

Best Duffel

Briggs & riley wheeled duffel.

Solid organization

Durable fabric

Wheels avoid back strain of classic duffels

Expensive for a duffel

Only available in two colors

Packing bulky or odd-shaped gear or heading off on an expedition that requires a super-tough, versatile bag? This duffel from Briggs & Riley is an excellent option. It features 800-denier ballistic nylon, which we found incredibly strong with no signs of damage post-testing. And, although, the two color choices of black or army green are not particularly exciting, they’re designed not to show wear and tear and are infinitely practical. Unlike traditional duffels, this one is wheeled for your convenience, with two wedged feet to keep it upright. 

The interior is incredibly roomy and made more so by the external Outsider handle and the zip-around lid pocket with its 2-inch expansion feature. We liked the cinch-down garment panels, which keep everything in place while doubling as a divider. There are many internal and external pockets, including a PVC-lined one for your wet or dirty gear and a zippered mesh pocket for smaller essentials. We found the bag super light and smooth to operate on hard floors, carpet, and gravel, and we liked that it packs down small for easy storage. 

Dimensions: 27 x 15 x 15 inches | Weight: 8.6 pounds | Wheels: 2 | Expandable: Yes

Passing our tests with flying colors, the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside is easy to maneuver over any terrain, features thoughtful interior organization, and comes backed by a 10-year warranty. If you are sticking to a budget, the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds Hardside Suitcase delivers incredible value at an accessible price point.

To create the recommendations above, we subjected each piece of luggage to the same rigorous testing process. First, we weighed the suitcases. Next, we packed them with a prescribed list of items to replicate what one might pack for a seven-day sightseeing trip in the fall . We noted spaciousness, whether the suitcase had an expansion option, and the usefulness of any organization features. We also checked the smoothness and durability of all zippers. 

Next, we tested maneuverability by rolling the suitcase through an obstacle course that included speed bumps and cones to simulate airport obstacles. We also tested how easily it operated over tile, carpet, and gravel. Finally, we tested the bag’s durability. This involved several drop tests, pushing it off a countertop, and noting any dents, scratches, or scuff marks. Then we beat the suitcase with a baseball bat, making sure to target all sides, corners, and wheels before checking for exterior and interior damage. 

Using our observations, we rated each suitcase on a scale from 1 to 5 for a list of attributes, including capacity, organization, maneuverability, durability, and value.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage, 29-Inch : Although it won points for its huge capacity, we felt this suitcase could use more comprehensive internal organization, a smoother handle system, and better performance on rough terrain. 

Briggs & Riley Baseline Expandable Spinner, 26-Inch : We found this to be a thoughtfully designed suitcase with great movement and a clever expansion option. However, the boxy design and high price tag prevented it from making our list.

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable : Although this suitcase looks sleek and comes in many colors, has an expansion option, and offers plenty of room, we felt it was let down by its awkward maneuverability on all but the smoothest surfaces. 

Briggs & Riley Sympatico Large Expandable Hardside Spinner : This suitcase stood up well to our durability tests and offered clever internal organization. However, we found the zippers were prone to sticking, and the handle was a little flimsy.

Monos Check-In Large Hardside : We really liked how well-built this suitcase felt and that it was easy to roll over all terrains. The downsides included slightly sticky zippers and the fact that it lacks the option to expand.

Arlo Skye The Zipper Check-In Large Hardside : This is an attractive, spacious suitcase with many intuitive design features. However, we found that it scuffed easily during our tests and felt it should be a little more durable at such a high price point. 

Paravel Aviator Grand Checked Hardside : Pros of this suitcase included its chic design, pretty colors, and smooth operation. Cons included a relative lack of interior organization options and the fact that it suffered several scuffs and dings during testing. 

Rimowa Essential Lite Check-In Hardside : This bag is costly, and our testers felt it was not worth the money, considering how easily the suitcase dented during testing and how difficult it was to maneuver over rough surfaces. 

July Checked Bag, 26-Inch : This is a well-designed, good-looking suitcase with thoughtful interior organization and options for customization. However, it scuffed easily during testing, so we would only recommend purchasing it in darker colors. 

Calpak Ambeur Large Hardside : Initial impressions of this suitcase were good, thanks to its glamorous exterior and versatile pockets. In the end, though, it was discounted because it was easily damaged during testing and lost balance when rolling over gravel. 

Beis The 29-Inch Large Check-In Roller : Although expensive, we felt this was an excellent suitcase with intuitive organization options. It stood up well to durability tests and maneuvered easily, and it would be a worthy alternative for several of our categories. 

Nomatic Check-In Hardside : This is a sleek suitcase with some excellent organization features; however, we felt that it was overpriced, especially since we struggled to pack everything on our testing list inside—a problem that we rarely encountered with other bags. 

AmazonBasics 26-Inch Hardside Spinner : This was a great piece of luggage for the price, with plenty of room and excellent exterior durability. Its flimsy compression straps and handles and the fact that the wheels stopped spinning on gravel hurt its overall rating.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 130L Duffel : We liked this duffel's durability and ability to convert to a backpack. However, it didn't make our final list because of its lack of organization, flimsy main grab handle, and limited maneuverability.

What to Look For in Checked Luggage

There are two main types of checked luggage: softside luggage, with popular materials including ballistic nylon and polyester, and hardside luggage , with the most popular materials being polycarbonate or ABS plastic. Both are available as luggage sets, and there are pros to both. Softside luggage is less prone to scuffs, dents, and scratches and more forgiving for the overpacker. Hardside luggage protects your valuables with a rigid frame and offers better weather resistance.

A checked bag should be roomy enough to accommodate everything you need for your trip while having some space left for souvenirs. Too small, and it’s a waste of the additional fee many airlines now charge for checked bags; however, it’s also worth bearing in mind that the largest bags may take you over airline weight limits when packed to capacity. A bag with an expansion feature you can deploy as needed is ideal. 

Maneuverability

You need a suitcase that can roll smoothly for many miles through airport terminals and withstand being pushed or pulled over various terrains, from smooth concourses to uneven sidewalks and cobbled streets. The best have four spinner wheels that allow them to move in any direction (handy for weaving through crowds) and a sturdy, telescoping handle capable of supporting the weight of your suitcase even when fully loaded. 

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) considers any luggage with a linear measurement of over 62 inches oversized. To work out your suitcase’s linear size, simply add the dimensions for length, width, and height. Airlines usually accept bigger bags but will charge a fee for them. The price (and the maximum size accepted) varies from carrier to carrier.

The IATA also lists items that cannot be packed in checked bags. These include e-cigarettes, spare batteries, power banks, and potentially hazardous items such as gas canisters, fireworks, lighters, and bleaches. Again, detailed lists may vary depending on your airline and destination, so it’s always a good idea to check before flying. Banned items will be removed and typically confiscated.

Smart suitcases are defined as any suitcase that has an integrated electronic device. This could be a USB charging point (super handy for keeping your phone going throughout your journey), a built-in scale (no last-minute repacking at the check-in counter), or a GPS real-time luggage tracker . The downside? Many airlines have banned smart suitcases that use non-removable lithium-ion batteries due to a potential fire risk on planes.

When suitcase shopping, you should research which models offer the best value for money—ultimately, you’re looking for quality construction that will perform well and save money in the long run by lasting several years. Then, you should spend as much as you can afford while also not paying for gadgets or gimmicks you don’t need. Often you’ll pay extra just for a brand name, so you need to decide if that’s worth it for you.

Each manufacturer will have guidelines, but generally speaking, you should remove any external dirt with a soft-bristled brush or damp cloth (depending on which is more appropriate for the stain and the material your luggage is made of). Make sure your luggage is completely dry before packing it away, and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can use an approved lubricant to keep wheels and zippers running smoothly.

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert. She is an experienced traveler who has put many brands and types of checked luggage to the test on her adventures to more than 50 countries—whether on cultural breaks to cities across Europe, a scientific expedition to the Peruvian Amazon, or a months-long backpacking adventure through South East Asia.

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CHECKED LUGGAGE

• Aviation Professionals

The Ultimate Luggage Size and Weight Guide

Your trip can go from exciting to frustrating quickly if you end up at the airport and discover your luggage isn't the right size. Suddenly you're shelling out more money than expected because your baggage has to be checked, and now you don't have access to your carry on. Before heading to the airport, check out our luggage size guide to stay within the limits.

When to use a Checked Bags

There's a certain convenience that comes with checking your bags. You can pack your carry on minimally, enjoy the lightened load, and still bring everything you need on the trip. With much more freedom to pack what you need, the most difficult decision will now be what bag you bring? Peruse the  Travelpro Checked Luggage page to find the perfect bag for

Checked Baggage Size and Dimensions

While you certainly can pack more when you check a bag, you still have to follow limitations. Checked luggage sizes vary depending on the airline and whether or not you are a "frequent flier" with that particular airline.

We've rounded up all the major airlines and listed the  checked luggage sizes and their limits to help you know what you're getting into.

Checked Suitcase Weight Limits

Airlines impose a luggage weight limit to ensure the plane isn't overloaded and to reduce the possibility of injuring the baggage handlers. Most domestic flights have a checked bag weight limit of around 50 pounds (unless you want to pay a fee to pack something heavier). However, your  international checked baggage size  varies considerably depending on which airline you choose.

When to Carry On

Many airlines allow a free carry on (usually for the overhead bin) and a free personal item (usually for under the seat in front of you). Domestic flights limit their size but don't pay much attention to the weight. International flights have specific size and weight requirements.  Travelpro has a lineup of stylish and functional carry on bags  for every type of trip. Related: See what you should bring in your TSA-approved carry on .

Carry On Bag Size and Dimensions

Domestic flights follow similar guidelines for carry on dimensions: roughly 22x14x9 inches. Check out our rundown of maximum carry-on sizes by airline to ensure you meet the TSA carry on size limits.

When you’re heading overseas, there are different rules to follow. International flights have different guidelines for size, and most also limit the weight of the carry on. Before you fly, make sure you’re not over the weight limit. You can read more about the international luggage standards here.

Helpful Tip: Our modern luggage collections all contain a variety of carry on suitcases that will meet your preferred airlines size restrictions.

Personal Items Limitations

Personal items get stowed beneath the seat in front of you. This space is designed to give easy access to items you might need while flying: laptops, medication, books, and more.

Space is limited, though. If you exceed it, you may have to store your personal item in the overhead bin – and that could result in added fees.

Related: Learn more about  what counts as a personal item and their size limitations .

Knowing what to bring and how big your luggage sizes can be, will make your trip much smoother and more enjoyable. As you plan your next getaway, find the perfect bag that accents your personality , and review the size guidelines to know whether you should check or carry on.

FIND THE BEST SUITCASE WITH THE TRAVELPRO® LUGGAGE FINDER

🧭 explore our guides, luggage shopping guides.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Protect Your Trip »

How to pack a suitcase (and not hate it): 12 expert tips.

Take the stress out of vacation prep with these simple hacks.

How to Pack a Suitcase

Getty Images

Rolling your clothes, making packing lists and bringing a laundry bag are a few of the ways you can pack your suitcase like a pro.

While nearly everyone gets excited to go on vacation, almost no one looks forward to packing beforehand. This dreaded task is only made worse by the threat of wrinkled clothes, forgotten items and broken gear when you arrive at your destination. Read on to learn how to pack a suitcase like a pro.  

Choose the right bag

Choosing the right bag for your trip, needs and style is key to achieving packing success. Narrow down your choice with these multi-purpose options, from soft-sided and hard-sided carry-on bags to travel backpacks and duffels:

• The Best Carry-on Luggage
• The Best Checked Luggage
• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Weekender Bags for Women
• The Best Duffel Bags in Every Style
• The Best Travel Backpacks

Invest in packing cubes

Frequent travelers swear by these highly rated packing cubes – lightweight, zip-up compartments allow you to separate different types of clothing, accessories, and even toiletries within your suitcase. They can also help to keep clothing wrinkle-free.

Pack everything from underwear to charging devices in individual packing cubes to keep everything organized and easily accessible. You might even purchase a few packing cube sets in different colors to organize your belongings by color (clothing items in red packing cubes, accessories in blue, etc.) or by a family member. Once you arrive at your lodging, just take the packing cubes out of your bag and place them in the dresser drawer.

Make a few packing lists

Before you start packing, jot down one list of must-haves and a second list of other items that you'd like to bring, but that aren't totally necessary. This will help you to avoid overpacking. Also write a list of last-minute items you'll need to throw in your bag just before you leave.

Read: What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag

Assemble a capsule wardrobe

Emirates cabin crew member Lauren Guilfoyle recommends assembling a capsule collection of basics like black pants, white jeans, neutral T-shirts and a denim jacket. These items are easy to mix and match and can be worn multiple times, so you won't need to pack a brand-new outfit for each day.

Roll your clothes

"Rolling your clothes helps to fit more and, if done right, helps to reduce wrinkles in the clothes you've packed," says Bobby Laurie, a former flight attendant and current host of "The Jet Set" talk show. To do this efficiently, use the Army or Ranger Roll method, which involves folding up the bottom few inches and sleeves of a garment as shown here .

Wrap breakables in clothing

Traveling with wine bottles or other fragile items? Roll any breakables inside a few layers of clothing to prevent damage.

Wear bulky items on the plane

"Wear your bulkiest items on the plane to free up space in your luggage and keep you warm during travel," Guilfoyle recommends. For example, if you're going to the beach, pack your flip-flops in your bag and wear your sneakers on the plane.

Pack a laundry bag

Scott Keyes, chief flight expert and founder of travel website Scott's Cheap Flights , advises bringing a separate, packable bag – even just a small plastic bag or trash bag – for dirty laundry. "[A trash bag] is simple, compresses super small and saves you from having to mix your clean and dirty clothes," Keyes says.

Fill in empty spaces

Be sure to use up any excess space. For instance, you can place socks and other small items inside of your shoes or a clutch purse.

Pack a wrinkle-release fabric spray

Not a fan of ironing or packing for a cruise and worried about wrinkle-prone clothing? Carry a bottle of wrinkle-release spray with you. Simply spray the liquid liberally on clothes while gently stretching and smoothing the garments to eliminate creases caused by packing. You might also consider packing wrinkle-resistant fabrics like 100% cotton, nylon and spandex.

Read:  The Best Garment Bags for Travel

Buy a portable luggage scale

Rather than trying to balance your luggage on your bathroom scale, hook this portable (and affordable) luggage scale onto any bag to check its weight. When you're finished, pack the scale in your baggage so you can check the suitcase's weight for your return flight as well.

Keep toiletries ready to go

To avoid the hassle of packing your toiletry bag every time you go on vacation, keep one in your closet filled with travel-sized items. If you run out of an item on a trip, be sure to refill it as soon as you get home so it's ready for your next getaway.

Read:  The Best Toiletry Bags

You might also be interested in:

• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?
• The Best Luggage Trackers
• Guide: Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline
• The Best Travel Neck Pillows
• The Best Passport Wallets

Tags: Travel , Travel Tips

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What Size Luggage Do I Need For A 7 Day Trip?

If you’re anything like me, packing for a trip can be both exciting and daunting. part of the fun is picking out a new outfit for each day of your vacation, but then you have to figure out how to fit everything into your suitcase. Depending on the length of your trip and how much stuff you need to bring with you, the size of your luggage will vary. For a 7-day trip, you’ll need a suitcase that is between 25 and 27 inches. This size is large enough to fit multiple outfits, shoes, and toiletries, but not so large that it will be difficult to carry around.

So, What size luggage do I need for a 7 day trip?

You will need a 25″ – 27″ checked luggage for a 7 day trip. This size luggage is ideal for trips of 5 to 7 days, or longer, depending on how you pack. They have a large capacity for multiple outfits, shoes, and toiletries.

Let’s dig into it and find out what’s going on.

What Size Luggage Do I Need For A Week Trip?

When planning a trip that will last a week or less, most people can get by with luggage that has a capacity of 50 liters or less. This is especially true if you’re planning to travel light and only bring carry-on luggage. There are plenty of duffels, packs, and bags in this size range to choose from.

If you’re planning a longer trip or you know you’ll need to pack more things, then you may need to consider luggage with a capacity of 50-75 liters. Bags in this size range will usually be able to hold everything you need for a one- to two-week trip. And, if you’re really trying to minimize the amount of luggage you have to bring, some of the larger bags in this size range can be packed down to a smaller size.

What Size Luggage Is Best For Traveling?

When it comes to packing for a trip, one of the most important things to consider is the size of your luggage. After all, you don’t want to be lugging around a heavy suitcase that’s too big to fit in the overhead compartment.

Ideally, your travel suitcase should measure 22” x 9” x 14” or less. This size is small enough to fit in the overhead compartments on most airlines, yet large enough to hold all of your essentials. Plus, it’s easy to maneuver through busy airports and crowded streets.

If you’re traveling with a larger suitcase, be prepared to check it at the gate. This can be a hassle, especially if you’re running late for your flight. To avoid this, try to pack light and only bring the items you really need.

So, what size luggage is best for traveling? We recommend a suitcase that measures 22” x 9” x 14” or less. This size is small enough to fit in the overhead compartments on most airlines, yet large enough to hold all of your essentials. Plus, it’s easy to maneuver through busy airports and crowded streets.

Also, A travel suitcase that is 22” x 9” x 14” or smaller is the best size to use. This size will fit into the overhead compartments on most airlines.

How Do You Pack For A 7 Day Trip?

Assuming you’re packing for a trip that involves flying, the first thing you need to do is make a list of everything you think you’ll need for the trip. This includes everything from clothes to toiletries to electronics. Once you have your list, start packing your suitcase, starting with the heaviest items first.

If you’re packing for a road trip, the process is similar, but you’ll want to pack your car more efficiently to make the most of the space. Start by packing the heaviest items in the trunk, and then work your way up to the lighter items.

Packing for a trip doesn’t have to be difficult. Just take some time to plan ahead and pack smart, and you’ll be sure to have everything you need for a great trip.

How Big Should A Suitcase Be For 10 Days?

This is a question that often plagues travelers – how big should a suitcase be for 10 days? The answer, of course, depends on a number of factors, including the type of trip you’re taking, the climate you’ll be encountering, and the amount of stuff you tend to pack. But there are a few general guidelines that can help you figure out how big your suitcase should be for a 10-day trip.

First, consider the type of trip you’re taking. Are you packing for a beach vacation, where you’ll mostly be living out of a swimsuit and sandals? Or are you headed to a city, where you’ll be doing a lot of walking and need to pack comfortable shoes and layers for changing weather conditions? If you’re taking a beach vacation, you can probably get away with packing less – just make sure you have enough swimsuits, sunscreen, and sunglasses. For a city trip, you’ll need more versatile clothing options, so pack accordingly.

Next, think about the climate you’ll be encountering on your trip. If you’re traveling to a warm destination, you won’t need to pack as many clothes as you would for a trip to a colder climate. And if you’re traveling to multiple destinations with different climates, you’ll need to be even more strategic about what you pack. Make sure to pack clothes that can be easily layered so you can adjust to changing weather conditions.

Finally, consider your personal packing style. Some people are able to pack light and only bring the essentials, while others tend to overpack and bring everything but the kitchen sink. If you’re not sure how much stuff you usually pack, try packing for a three-day trip and see how much you end up using. This will give you a better idea of how much you need to pack for a 10-day trip.

In general, a good rule of thumb is that a suitcase should be big enough to fit all of your clothes, plus a few extra items like toiletries and souvenirs. If you’re traveling with a carry-on suitcase, it should be able to fit in the overhead bin on an airplane. And if you’re checking a suitcase, make sure it’s not too big or too heavy – otherwise, you might have to pay extra fees.

So how big should a suitcase be for a 10-day trip? It depends on a number of factors, but a good rule of thumb is that it should be big enough to fit all of your clothes, plus a few extra items. Be sure to consider the type of trip you’re taking, the climate you’ll be encountering, and your personal packing style when deciding how big your suitcase should be.

What Is The Best Size Luggage For International Travel?

This is a question that plagues many travelers. What is the best size luggage for international travel? The answer, of course, depends on many factors, such as the type of trip you’re taking, the airlines you’ll be flying, and the amount of stuff you need to bring with you. But we’ve done the research and consulted the experts to bring you the definitive answer to this pressing question.

The first thing to consider is the type of trip you’re taking. Are you going on a two-week vacation or a month-long business trip? If you’re only gone for a short while, you can get away with packing light and bringing carry-on luggage only. But if you’re gone for an extended period of time, you’ll need to check a bag.

The next thing to consider is the airlines you’ll be flying. Some airlines have strict size restrictions for carry-on luggage, so be sure to check the requirements before you pack. If you’re flying on a budget airline, you might have to pay extra for checked luggage, so it’s important to weigh the cost of checking a bag against the cost of paying the airline’s fee.

Finally, consider the amount of stuff you need to bring with you. If you’re only bringing a few changes of clothes and a few personal items, you can probably get away with a small carry-on bag. But if you’re bringing presents for your family or business materials for work, you’ll need to check a bag.

So, what is the best size luggage for international travel? The answer is: it depends. But we hope this guide has given you some things to consider as you make your decision.

What Size Suitcase Do I Need For 4 Days?

Assuming you’re travelling for leisure, the answer to this question largely depends on where you’re going and what you plan on doing while you’re there. For instance, if you’re headed to the beach for a long weekend, you’ll probably need a larger suitcase than if you’re just going to the city for a couple of nights.

Likewise, if you’re planning on doing a lot of shopping while you’re away, you’ll need to make sure your suitcase is big enough to accommodate all of your new purchases. On the other hand, if you’re just going to be doing a lot of walking, you might be able to get away with a smaller suitcase.

Ultimately, there is no definitive answer to this question. It all depends on your individual travel plans. However, we would recommend err on the side of caution and choose a suitcase that is slightly larger than you think you’ll need. That way, you won’t have to worry about running out of space while you’re away.

What Size Suitcase Do I Need For 10 Days?

When planning a trip that will last ten days or less, most people can get away with using a carry-on suitcase. This is the smallest and most convenient option, as it can be easily stored in the overhead compartment on an airplane or in the trunk of a car. However, there are a few factors to consider when deciding if a carry-on is the right choice for you.

First, think about what you will be packing. If you are planning to bring along a lot of heavy or bulky items, you may need to opt for a larger suitcase. The same goes for if you are bringing along any fragile items that need to be packed with care. Second, consider your travel plans. If you will be doing a lot of flying, a carry-on may not be the best option as airlines have strict size restrictions. Finally, take into account any special circumstances, such as if you are pregnant or have a disability that makes lifting a heavy suitcase difficult.

If you decide that a carry-on is the right option for you, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to make sure it meets airline regulations. Most carry-on suitcases must be no larger than 22” x 14” x 9”. Additionally, many airlines have a weight limit for carry-on luggage, so be sure to check before packing your bag. Finally, make sure to pack your carry-on in an easily accessible place so that you can quickly grab it when you need it.

What Size Luggage For 2 Week Trip?

Assuming you’re packing for a two-week trip, you’ll need to bring enough clothes and other items to last you for the entire duration of your trip. That means packing for a range of activities, including sightseeing, relaxing on the beach, and exploring local restaurants and nightlife.

To make sure you have everything you need, start by making a list of all the items you’ll need to pack. Then, consider what type of luggage will best suit your needs. For example, a rolling suitcase will be easier to maneuver through airports and train stations, while a backpack will be more comfortable to carry around for long days of sightseeing.

Once you’ve decided on the right type of luggage, it’s time to start packing. Begin by packing the heavier items first, such as jeans and sweaters, to help balance the weight of your luggage. Then, add in your lighter items, such as t-shirts and shorts. Be sure to leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs you may want to bring home with you!

Packing for a two-week trip doesn’t have to be stressful. By taking the time to plan ahead and choose the right type of luggage, you can ensure that you’ll have everything you need for an enjoyable and memorable trip.

What Is The Largest Luggage Size For Check-In?

The largest luggage size for check-in is 62 inches or 158 centimeters. This includes the sum of the length, width, and height of the bag. Anything larger than this will need to be checked in as oversized luggage.

What Are The Dimensions Of A 32 Inch Piece Of Luggage?

This is a question that many people have when they are trying to purchase a new piece of luggage. The dimensions of a 32 inch piece of luggage are as follows: 28 inches long by 18 inches wide by 10 inches deep. These dimensions will vary slightly depending on the brand of luggage that you purchase.

What Are The Dimensions Of A Standard Suitcase Size For Airlines?

If you’re planning to check a bag on your next flight, it’s important to know the size restrictions imposed by your airline. Depending on the carrier, the maximum size for checked luggage can range from 62 linear inches (the sum of the length, width, and height of the bag) to 158 linear inches.

The most common size for a checked suitcase is 62 linear inches, which is the size limit imposed by many major airlines, including Delta, American, United, and Southwest. However, there are a few airlines that have larger size limits for checked luggage. For example, Alaska Airlines allows bags up to 163 linear inches, and JetBlue allows bags up to 150 linear inches.

If you’re planning to bring a larger bag on your next flight, be sure to check the size restrictions of your airline before you arrive at the airport.

What Is The Best Size Suitcase For 1 Week Trip?

When it comes to packing for a trip, the biggest dilemma is usually deciding what size suitcase to bring. After all, you don’t want to be lugging around a giant suitcase if you’re only going away for a few days. But at the same time, you don’t want to be stuck without enough clothes if your trip ends up being longer than expected. So what’s the perfect suitcase size for a one week trip?

The answer, of course, depends on a few factors, such as how many people you’re traveling with, what kind of activities you’ll be doing, and what the weather will be like. But in general, a medium-sized suitcase is the best option for a one week trip. It’s large enough to fit everything you need, but not so large that it’s a hassle to carry around.

Of course, the best way to know for sure what size suitcase you need is to start by making a packing list. Write down everything you think you’ll need for your trip, and then take a close look at the items on your list. If you can easily pack everything into a carry-on bag, then a small suitcase will probably be fine. But if you have a lot of larger items, or if you plan on doing a lot of shopping while you’re away, then a medium-sized suitcase is probably the better option.

Once you’ve decided on the right size suitcase for your trip, the next step is to choose the right style. If you’re traveling with a lot of gear, then a hard-sided suitcase is a good option. But if you’re just bringing a few changes of clothes and some personal items, then a soft-sided suitcase might be a better choice. And if you’re really not sure, then it’s always a good idea to bring both a small and a medium-sized suitcase, just in case.

How To Determine The Right Size Luggage, Pack Or Bag?

When it comes to packing for a trip, one of the most important things to consider is the size of your luggage. After all, you don’t want to be stuck lugging around a huge suitcase when you could have packed everything into a smaller bag. But how do you know what size luggage, pack or bag is right for you?

Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right size luggage:

1. The type of trip you’re taking: Are you going on a long vacation where you’ll need to pack a lot of clothes and other items? Or are you taking a quick business trip where you’ll only need a few changes of clothes? The type of trip you’re taking will help determine the size of luggage you need.

2. The airlines you’re flying: Some airlines have strict size restrictions for carry-on luggage, so be sure to check with your airline before you start packing.

3. The amount of stuff you need to bring: This one is pretty self-explanatory. If you’re only bringing a few items, you won’t need a large suitcase. But if you’re packing for a family of four, you’ll need something that’s big enough to fit everyone’s belongings.

4. Your personal preference: Some people prefer to travel light and only bring a carry-on bag. Others like to have everything they might need on their trip and pack a larger suitcase. Consider your personal preferences when choosing the right size luggage.

Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you should have a good idea of what size luggage, pack or bag is right for you. So get out there and start packing!

What Is The Best Hardside Luggage For Leisure?

There are many factors to consider when purchasing hardside luggage for leisure travel. The type of trip, the climate, the length of stay, and personal preferences all come into play. But there are a few basics that all hardside luggage should have:

1. Lightweight and easy to carry. 2. Multiple compartments for organization. 3. Lockable zippers for security.

When it comes to leisure travel, the best hardside luggage is the kind that will make your trip easier and more enjoyable. It should be lightweight and easy to carry, so you don’t have to worry about lugging a heavy suitcase around. It should also have multiple compartments for organization, so you can keep your belongings sorted and tidy. And finally, it should have lockable zippers for security, so you can rest assured that your belongings are safe.

There are many different types of hardside luggage on the market, so it’s important to do your research and find the one that best suits your needs. But with these basics in mind, you can be sure to find the perfect piece of luggage for your next leisure trip.

What Are The Features Of Hardside Luggage?

When it comes to choosing the right luggage for your travels, there are a variety of factors to consider. But one of the most important decisions you’ll make is whether to choose hardside or softside luggage. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that’s right for you.

Hardside luggage is typically made from a rigid material like plastic or metal, which makes it more durable than softside luggage. It’s also easier to keep your belongings organized in hardside luggage because it has compartments and pockets that you can use to store and arrange your things. However, hardside luggage is often heavier than softside luggage, and it can be more difficult to pack because you can’t squeeze it into tight spaces.

If you’re looking for luggage that will withstand the rigors of travel and keep your belongings well-organized, hardside luggage is a good option. But if you prefer lighter luggage that’s easier to pack, softside luggage may be a better choice.

What Are The Different Brands Of Hardside Luggage?

There are many different brands of hardside luggage, but the most popular are probably the Samsonite and American Tourister brands. These brands offer a wide variety of hardside luggage, from small carry-on bags to large suitcases. They also offer a variety of colors and designs, so you can find the perfect bag to match your style.

If you’re looking for something a little different, you might want to check out the Delsey or Travelpro brands. These brands offer a more unique selection of hardside luggage, including some that are specifically designed for business travelers.

No matter what brand of hardside luggage you choose, be sure to pick one that’s durable and stylish. That way, you can be sure your bag will last for years to come.

So, there you have it! The perfect size luggage for a 7 day trip. But don’t just take our word for it, go ahead and try it for yourself. And be sure to check out our other blog posts for more travel tips and tricks.

Related Post:

• Which luggage material is the most durable?
• How much can you fit in a 24 inch suitcase?
• Is it better to roll or fold clothes in a suitcase?
• Is a 30 inch suitcase oversized?
• Is polycarbonate stronger than aluminum?

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I Shop for a Living, and I Found the 12 Amazon Labor Day Deals Worth Buying Up to 91% Off

Save big on editor-approved travel essentials, starting at $14.

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

The dog days of summer may finally be behind us, but online retailers are heating things up this weekend with massive Labor Day sales. And since this day marks the transition between summer and fall, now is a great time to fill any gaps you might have when it comes to necessary travel essentials far in advance of the hustle and bustle of upcoming holiday travel. Naturally, Amazon is leading the charge with tons of major discounts on everything from travel-friendly apparel to hardside luggage . 

As an avid Amazon shopper and travel editor, I’ve already begun digging for the best deals ahead of the fall travel season. After sifting through hundreds of products, I can confidently say that this year’s Amazon Labor Day Sale has something for everyone . Ahead, I rounded up 12 of the top deals worth buying this weekend. With portable camping chairs , weekender bags , electric toothbrushes , and more, this list is chock full of practical products that’ll make your next traveling experience so much more enjoyable. 

ETRONIK Weekender Overnight Bag

This large weekender duffel from Etronik, dubbed the “ Best Travel Bag Ever ” by Amazon shoppers , is a whopping 58 percent off (with the on-site coupon) during Labor Day weekend. Available in 20 different colors and styles, it comes with a removable toiletry bag and features multiple individual compartments, including a separated vented shoe compartment that keeps stinky sneakers tucked away from the rest of your belongings. Made with a waterproof nylon fabric, it also comes with a USB charging port, a luggage trolly strap, and a removable padded shoulder strap.  

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling Headphones

I’ve owned — and loved — my Sony over-ear headphones for years, and now that my model is on sale for Labor Day weekend, I’m strongly considering buying another pair in a different color. Originally priced at $348, the WH-1000XM4 model is currently $100 off. The noise cancellation, long battery life, and touch sensor controls are all superb, but my favorite feature is the speak-to-chat function, which picks up voices mid-conversation, pausing whatever you were listening to so you can hear the person you speaking. Over 46,000 five-star reviewers agree, with one happy shopper reporting that these Sony headphones are a bargain and “the best noise canceling headphones I have ever owned.”

Trendy Queen Womens Oversized Sweatshirts Hoodies Half Zip Pullover

You can never have too many sweaters, hoodies, and sweatshirts during fall, and I’ve been eyeing this Automet pullover since it went on sale. Currently 62 percent off with the on-site coupon and available in 24 different eye-catching shades, this sweatshirt comes with a giant kangaroo pocket in the front and a perfectly oversized silhouette. Cuffed wrists on the sleeves trap in warmth, while the half-zip front allows you to cool off on warm afternoons. Psst: If you prefer hooded sweatshirts to pullovers, check out this option , currently $27 off for Labor Day. 

Ring Video Doorbell

A doorbell camera can provide peace of mind while you’re away from home. This weekend, you can snag the industry-leading Ring Video Doorbell camera before your next trip — for $40 less than the original $100 price tag. This 1080p HD video doorbell camera is compatible with Alexa and links directly to your phone, tablet, or PC, providing real-time video and audio feeds of visitors outside your home. You’ll get instant push notifications to your devices whenever the doorbell rings or the built-in motion sensor is triggered, providing an added sense of security while on lengthy trips.

Bagail 8 Set Packing Cubes

Packing cubes allow you to keep all of your clothes, accessories, and toiletries organized within your checked luggage. This specific set from Bagail is just $14 for Labor Day and comes with a laundry bag, a zippered shoe bag, a cosmetics bag, a discreet underwear cube, and three additional mesh packing cubes. Available in 14 colors, these cubes are great for keeping your items separate and easy to retrieve on short notice. 

Allbirds Women's Tree Runner Go Everyday Sneakers

Quality athletic shoes can be pricey, but these discounted Allbirds Tree Runners are a steal at just $68. Available in eight different colorways, these everyday sneakers are great for traveling, long walks, and workouts alike. Made with an ultra-breathable tree fiber upper and springy, cushioned midsoles, these sneakers are a bouncy, cool, and totally effortless footwear option to add to your travel wardrobe. 

Coolife Expandable Suitcase Luggage

Upgrade your luggage on a budget with this three-piece hardside suitcase set from Coolife. Currently on sale for $190, it comes with everything you’d need for weekend trips to extended vacations, including a carry-on spinner, a medium checked suitcase, and a large checked suitcase. Each piece in this three-piece set is constructed with a lightweight-yet-durable outer shell, reinforced grip handles, dual spinner wheels, and a sturdy adjustable handle. For more color options, check out this other set from Coolife , also on sale for Labor Day. 

Apple AirTag 4-Pack

Apple AirTags are an invaluable tool for keeping track of your checked luggage, wallet, keys, and — even your pets. Right now, you can score a pack of four for $80 versus the original $99 price. Simply connect them with your Apple device’s Find My network, and you’ll begin receiving real-time updates on the precise location of your most valuable items. 

BOSTANTEN Small Sling Bag

My mom owns this specific crossbody sling bag from Bostanten and loves it; now that it’s nearly 50 percent off, I’m considering buying one for myself, too. Constructed with a water-resistant faux leather fabric, this expandable bag contains five credit card slot pockets, two main zippered pockets, a front zip pocket, a hidden pocket on the back, and a concealed earphone cable hole. It’s just as stylish as it is practical, though, thanks to the wide, woven shoulder strap, and gold hardware.

Jiangler Auto Face Tracking Tripod

It can be difficult to remember to take photos on busy travel days; perhaps even more difficult is trying to get a decent photo of you and your group when there’s no willing passersby to take one for you. This nifty face-tracking tripod, currently 91 percent off for Labor Day, automatically tracks faces, adjusting the position of your smartphone’s camera to perfectly align with anyonein frame. This tripod’s built-in camera rotates 360 degrees to capture your every move, enabling you to get the perfect group photo or TikTok video every time. 

Coleman Portable Camping Quad Chair with 4-Can Cooler

With autumn right around the corner, I’ve been keeping an eye out for reasonably priced camping chairs that are comfortable yet durable enough to stand the test of time. This Coleman camping chair, currently discounted at $31, ticks all of my boxes: It’s built to hold up to 325 pounds, has a zippered mesh pocket perfect for holding sunscreen and bug spray, a large mesh cup holder, and a zippered cooler stitched right into the left armrest. And according to one five-star reviewer , this camping chair is still going strong after a year full of outdoor events.

Aquasonic Black Series Ultra Whitening Toothbrush

I currently have this travel-friendly Aquasonic electric toothbrush squared away in my Amazon cart as I type this. On sale for just $40, this wireless whitening toothbrush comes with eight brush heads, a travel carrying case, and a vertical, space-saving charging stand. Built with an ultra-powerful internal motor, this brush can dole out 40,0000 vibrations per minute, expertly removing plaque and debris in an instant. So far, this discounted toothbrush has garnered over 87,000 five-star reviews, with one reviewer sharing that the quality and price combo of this tool is hard to beat. 

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Get up to 25% off luggage during the Monos Labor Day sale

By Kaylyn McKenna , Rachel Center

Edited By Lily Rose , Fox Van Allen , Nina Bradley , Gabriele Shacknai

Updated on: August 28, 2024 / 12:53 PM EDT / Essentials

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

Monos is a beloved luggage brand known for its sleek, stylish checked bags ,  carry-on options and more. Travel enthusiasts and social media users rave about the brand's fashionable designs and high-quality features.

If you're a fan of Monos luggage and travel accessories, now is the perfect time to shop. Monos is offering up to 25% off sitewide during its Labor Day sale, which ends on Monday, Sept. 2, 2024.

Keep reading to discover the best deals at the Monos Labor Day sale. Use code LONGWEEKEND to take advantage of these limited-time savings.

Best Monos luggage deals at the Monos Labor Day sale

Shop the best Monos luggage deals below. To get the prices shown, use code LONGWEEKEND at checkout. 

Monos Carry-On

The Monos Carry-On features a telescopic handle, plus lots of zippered pockets and compartments and an easy-to-use lock. It offers an ultra-strong polycarbonate hard shell exterior and a TSA-approved locking system. Monos boasts a 100-day trial period and lifetime warranty.

This carry-on is more compact than the other carry-on I own. It measures 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches. I tend to go on a lot of short weekend trips, and this size was great for me for my recent four-day vacation. I like that it's smaller and lightweight, as that makes it easier to roll and lift into an overhead bin or the car.  

Why we like the Monos carry-on:

• Monos Carry-Ons are made with aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shells for enhanced durability.
• The carry-on fits in the overhead bin on most airlines and is easy to store in my car trunk for road trips.
• The 360-degree spinner wheels provide a smooth glide.
• It's available in 13 colors. 

Monos Carry-On Plus

The Monos Carry-On Plus offers all of the benefits of the standard carry-on but in a larger size. It measures 23 inches by 15 inches by 9.5 inches, giving you extra space to pack for longer trips. Even at its larger size, this suitcase still fits in the overhead bin on most major airlines. Though Monos does advise that it may need to be checked on smaller planes.

"I bought the larger carry on in black and it's a sleek, stylish, good-looking suitcase. It rolls smoothly and spins easily, the handle is solid and you can pack quite a lot in there if you use it well," a reviewer on the Monos website shares.

Choose from 13 carry-on color and print options. 

Why we like the Monos Carry-On Plus:

• The Carry-On Plus fits more than the standard carry-on, making it better for longer trips.
• It's made with a dent-resistant, impact-friendly polycarbonate shell.
• It can fit inside of Monos' checked bags for easy storage.

Monos Carry-On Pro

Business travelers may prefer the Pro model of the Monos Carry-On, as it offers a padded pocket to protect computers and other gadgets. The pocket fits laptops up to 16 inches, and protects the laptop with the same aerospace-grade polycarbonate that is used for the rest of the suitcase.

The Monos Carry-On Pro measures 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches and weighs 7.8 pounds. It can hold enough for a two to five-day trip.

"I really liked the overall feel and design of my Carry-On Pro," says a reviewer. "Smooth and glided around with ease. I love the outer pocket for convenience."

Why we like the Monos Carry-On Pro:

• It keeps laptops safe with a dedicated pocket and strong materials.
• Like all Monos Carry-Ons, it includes a TSA-approved lock for extra security.
• It can be purchased in a bundle set with other Monos products for extra savings.

Monos Check-In Large

The Monos Check-In Large is the checked version of the Monos carry-on piece above. It comes in 10 colors and prints. Price varies by color. Monos' smaller suitcases can nest inside it when you're not traveling. 

"The bag has the largest size in its category. Despite that, it feels light and looks classy. I am also impressed with its durability and the way it rolls," a reviewer on Monos' website shares.

Why we like the Monos Check-in Large suitcase:

• It offers a spacious interior for your items.
• This luggage is made with a high-quality polycarbonate shell.
• It comes in thirteen color options.

Monos Metro carry-all duffle bag

The Monos Metro carry-all duffle offers plenty of room for all of your must-haves and offers a nice, hands-free carrying option for travelers. The duffle's main compartment includes a zippered pocket, laptop sleeve and a water bottle pocket along with plenty of storage space. It also has two external pockets and a trolley sleeve that can connect to your luggage handle.

Why we like the Monos Metro carry-all duffle:

• It's easy to carry with top handles or the padded shoulder strap.
• The duffle includes two exterior pockets for extra storage space.
• It works well as a standalone weekend bag or a personal item for longer trips.

Monos Metro tote bag

The Monos Metro tote is a large travel tote that can carry all of your travel essentials. It features a zippered interior pocket for smaller essentials like your keys and passport, a tech sleeve for your laptop or tablet and an interior water bottle pocket.

Like the rest of the Monos Metro collection, it's made with Monos' vegan leather. I'm a big fan of Monos' vegan leather products because they look beautiful and are super easy to clean. Plus, they offer the appearance and texture of leather while providing a cruelty-free alternative.

Why we like the Monos Metro tote:

• It features zippered interior pockets for easy organization.
• It features a built-in trolley sleeve that fits around the handle of your suitcase.
• It's a great size for travel and offers plenty of storage.

Labor Day 2024  is almost here, which means  Labor Day sales  are live now. The shopping experts at CBS Essentials have scoured the  best Labor Day sales at all your favorite retailers  to bring you the  best mattress deals , the  best luggage deals , the  best deals on major appliances , the  best patio furniture clearance deals  and even the  best tire deals to shop this Labor Day .

Kaylyn McKenna is an expert on deals, travel, luggage, home and more for CBS Essentials. When she's not scouring the internet for the best deals on new luggage or robot vacuums, she spends time with her goldendoodle, Harley,

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Missouri father uses a funeral to wean daughter off pacifier

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2 die from West Nile virus in New Jersey, making reported deaths in U.S. reach 5

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Major publishers sue Florida over book ban law in schools

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Tainted feed may be to blame after 70 horses die at an Oklahoma ranch

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7 Labor Day Trip Tips for Those Traveling with a Loved One with Dementia

(August 28, 2024) — If you are one of the many people taking an end-of-summer getaway this Labor Day weekend, there are special steps you should take if you are also traveling with someone who has dementia. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is offering 7 tips to help caregivers traveling with a loved one with a dementia-related illness make their trip as smooth as possible.  “One last summer trip on Labor Day weekend can mean dealing with heavy traffic and packed airports, challenges which become even greater if you’re traveling with someone who has dementia,” said Jennifer Reeder, LCSW, AFA’s Director of Educational and Social Services. “Whether it’s a quick road trip or flying far away, there are preparations and adaptations caregivers should make to help their loved ones with dementia feel more comfortable and relaxed while traveling.” AFA recommends taking the following 7 steps: •  Simplify the itinerary.  Keep the travel schedule simple. Avoid tight connections or multiple stops if possible. Resist the urge to plan a trip with too many sights, destinations, and attractions. Focus on creating quality time, rather than on the quantity of activities.  •  Plan around the person’s abilities and routine. Incorporate the person, their abilities, and needs into the arrangements; if they travel better at a specific time of day, consider planning accordingly. Small changes can feel overwhelming and stressful to someone with dementia, so to the greatest extent possible, preserve the person’s routine. For example, if they normally eat around a certain time, build that into the itinerary. Choose the travel mode and scheduling that causes the least amount of anxiety and stress possible. •  Stock up before leaving.  Bring snacks, water, activities and other comfort items (i.e., a blanket or the person’s favorite sweater). Include an extra, comfortable set of clothing appropriate for differences and changes in climate. Take important health and legal-related documentation, a list of current medications, and physician information with you. Ensure that the person with dementia wears an ID bracelet with your contact information. If traveling by mass transit: •  Know the security procedures.  Inquire in advance with airports/train stations about security screening procedures. This way, you can familiarize the person beforehand with what will happen at the checkpoint, thus reducing potential anxiety. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers assistance with the screening process to air travelers with certain medical conditions, including dementia-related illnesses; contact their TSA Cares Helpline at least 72 hours prior to your flight to learn more. •  Advise the airline.  Let the airline know that you are traveling with someone who has memory impairment and inform them of safety concerns and special needs. •  Find a quiet space.  Some airports have designated quiet areas or rooms for individuals living with dementia, providing a more peaceful space away from the crowds and noise. If traveling by car: •  Build in break time.  Take regular breaks on road trips for food, bathroom visits, and rest. Families with questions about traveling with someone who has a dementia-related illness can speak with a licensed social worker through the AFA Helpline by phone (866-232-8484), text message (646-586-5283), or webchat ( www.alzfdn.org ). The helpline is available seven days a week.

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