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

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

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

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

Our top picks for the best luggage brands

Shop all luggage at Samsonite

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

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

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

Worth a look:

Shop all luggage at Away

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

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

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

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

Shop all luggage at Travelpro

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

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

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

Shop all luggage at Monos

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

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

You can read our full Monos luggage review for more.

Shop all luggage at American Tourister

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

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

Shop all luggage at Rimowa

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

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

Read our full Rimowa Essential Lite carry-on review .

Shop all luggage at Briggs & Riley

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

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

Shop all luggage at Bric's

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

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

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

Read our full Bric's Capri luggage review .     

Shop all luggage at Tumi

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

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

Shop all luggage at Victorinox

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

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

Shop all luggage at Delsey

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

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

Is hard-sided or soft-sided luggage better?

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

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

What size luggage should I buy?

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

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

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Adrienne So Gear Team

The Best Travel Bags for Wherever You’re Headed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Carry-On for Most People

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

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

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On

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

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

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

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

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On

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

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

Best Bag for a Lifetime

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

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

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

Best Backpack

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

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

Best Convertible Bag

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

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

Best Personal Item

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

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

Best Work Bag

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

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

The Best Hiking Daypack

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

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

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

Best Duffel Bag

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

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

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

The Best Expedition Bag

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

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

Best for Camping

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

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

The Best Aluminum Suitcase

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

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

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

A Good Emergency Go Bag

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

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

Other Bags We Like

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bags We Don’t Like

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

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

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

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

A Few Travel Accessories

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Pick the Right Size Bag

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

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

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

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

When to Remove Battery Banks

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

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

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

Louryn Strampe

Medea Giordano

Scott Gilbertson

Brenda Stolyar

Martin Cizmar

Julian Chokkattu

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

By Madison Flager

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.

Advertisement

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

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

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

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

What we considered

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

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

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

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

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

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

The research

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

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

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

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

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

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

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

Buying Options

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flaws but not dealbreakers

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

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

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

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

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

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

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

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

Meet your guide

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

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

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

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

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

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

by Kit Dillon

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

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

by Elissa Sanci

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

The Best Luggage Brands to Buy in 2024

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

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

Our top picks

Best Overall Luggage

Best Value Luggage

American tourister.

Best Carry-On Luggage

Best Luggage for International Travel

Briggs & riley.

Best Under-$100 Luggage

Amazon basics.

Best Luggage for Frequent Flyers

Best Viral Luggage

Best Luggage for Flight Crews

Best Printed Luggage

Best Fashion Luggage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An inside view of Away's The Carry On.

Briggs & Riley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eagle Creek

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

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

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

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

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13 best carry-on luggage pieces 2024 - we tested them all.

Discover the best carry-on luggage for your unique travel style and needs.

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Things aren't always as they seem – especially when it comes to luggage. In our quest to find the best carry-on bags, we discovered that while some suitcases look good, they don't always hold up to the demands of travel. Some designs have attractive features that add bulk but not additional functionality, while others just don't live up to the hype.

To determine the best carry-on luggage, we tested dozens of bags on countless trips to find the ideal bag for every travel need. Read on to find the best option in a variety of categories, tested and reviewed by our team of experts.

Best Overall: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Original – Large

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓
• Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-on Hardside Spinner

Best Hard-sided: Away The Carry-On

Best soft-sided: samsonite solyte dlx carry-on spinner, best lightweight: july carry on light, best for international travel: delsey paris helium aero international carry-on - expandable spinner, best affordable: amazon basics 20-inch hardside spinner.

• Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner
• Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Best for Business Travel: Amazon Basics Expandable Softside Carry-On Spinner – 20.4 Inch

Best luxury: carl friedrik the carry-on pro.

• Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder–22"

Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time this article was published; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. Original photos were taken by our editors during luggage testing.)

Price:  $315 or less

Dimensions: 22.4 x 14.6 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds; 8.85 pounds with closet insert Packing capacity: 4-7 days |  Color options:  Red, purple, navy or 6 others, plus precious metals options Hard- or soft-sided:  Hard-sided   | Warranty: Lifetime

Sturdy and attractive, this suitcase is set apart from the rest by its patented and removable shelving system. This unique design feature makes packing easier, keeps items in place and removes the need for unpacking at your destination. Rather than a zippered clamshell design, the Solgaard Carry-on Closet has two latches that open with just the squeeze of two levers together; it secures with a TSA-approved lock.

The waterproof polycarbonate exterior has an aluminum frame and corner guards so this suitcase can withstand all the rigors of travel. There's also an ergonomic handle and frictionless wheels, which make it easy to maneuver on all types of terrain. What's more, this sustainable suitcase helps to repurpose 6 pounds of plastics that may have ended up in the ocean.

What our editors say:

This carry-on suitcase has it all! From the power bank (sold separately) to the super sturdy and comfortable handle to the removable closet feature – not to mention the attractive yet functional appearance – this suitcase packs a punch. I really like how easy it is to pull on a variety of surfaces, including carpet and brick. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Best Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $369.99 or less

Dimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 10 days; 45 liters | Color options: White, red, blue, green or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner is a truly well-rounded carry-on with a plethora of unique features. USB A & C ports on the outside of the bag give easy access to charging. (A power bank is not included, though the bag does have a pocket for one inside the expansion zipper.) Self-aligning magnetic wheels – a reviewer-favorite feature – allow painless travel through the airport as well as on roads, sidewalks, uneven surfaces and more. A built-in TSA zipper lock offers ultimate protection for your possessions.

Even without the features listed above, this Travelpro spinner is, at its core, a high-quality piece. The hard outer shell is ultra-strong and 100% polycarbonate; aluminum corner guards further protect your belongings. The clamshell-style suitcase has two large interior compartments along with three extra pockets, one of which is water-resistant, and the expansion zipper allows for an extra 2 inches of packing room. Plus, this carry-on is made with genuine leather trim, so you can travel in style as well as comfort.

There are some amazing features on this carry-on, but my favorite is the wheels – as someone who typically prefers hands-free travel (primarily backpacks), I found that the way this suitcase easily glides around everywhere absolutely changed my mind about wheeled luggage. Just know that since this is one of the larger bags on this list, I would still check your airline's carry-on size requirements before traveling (though it's been tested for most major domestic airlines, and it fit perfectly on Delta). – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $275 or less

Dimensions: 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches | Weight: 7.5 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 39.8 liters | Color options: Black, navy, blue gray or olive, plus 2 glossy options Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited

When it comes to hard-sided carry-on luggage , nothing beats The Carry-On by Away. The bag is lightweight yet indestructible thanks to a 100% polycarbonate exterior. Plus, you can easily wipe away most scratches with a magic eraser.

In late 2023, Away launched a new iteration of The Carry-On that somehow made it even more efficient. The most notable new features are an additional underside grab handle, three extra interior compartments, and an enhanced compression system that upholds the bag's ability to accommodate nearly a week's worth of clothing. The bag's 360-degree wheels are also slimmer than those of its predecessor for improved maneuverability. While Away has long been known for its neutral colored matte options, glossy options of this bag are now available.

The Away Carry-On is my ride or die. I've taken it on so many trips over the past five-plus years and it's still in perfect shape. I know I'll have it with me for many years to come. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content and SEO Strategist

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $199.99 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 7.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Black, gray, green, aqua blue or royal blue Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

This classic soft-sided option from Samsonite offers everything you need for a smooth trip. There are three spacious pockets and a trolley strap on the outside so you can stack it on top of another rolling suitcase, as well as a USB port for charging your phone (though you'll have to purchase a battery separately).

Inside the suitcase, three more zippered pockets – including one for wet items – help you stay organized, while buckles keep the main compartment's tie-down straps out of your way while packing. This spinner can conveniently expand by 0.75 inches, but keep in mind if you're flying that overpacking may put it over your carry-on size allowance.

I've used other spinner suitcases in the past, but none of them glide as smoothly as this bag, with its 360-degree dual-spinner wheels. I also love the high-quality, lightweight material, but my favorite part is its organizational features – especially the WetPak pocket. I'd highly recommend the Samsonite SoLyte DLX for anyone who needs a trusty soft-sided carry-on for a flight; it definitely fits more than I thought it would. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Price: $245 or less

Dimensions: 21.25 x 14.17 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 3.9 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Beige, light green, dark green, lilac, charcoal or 3 others Hard- or soft-sided: Hard | Warranty: Lifetime with 100-day returns

Weighing just under 4 pounds, this bag is the lightest hard-sided carry-on we found on the market. It's constructed with an extremely durable German polycarbonate shell, and the interior has two mesh zippered compartments to keep your belongings from shifting. The inner nylon lining is also resistant to water and stains. To make the suitcase easy to maneuver, there's a top carry handle, a telescoping handle and dual-spinner wheels.

I was absolutely shocked by how light this suitcase is. While some lightweight designs can be extremely flimsy, this July carry-on is very durable and holds a good amount of clothing. With compression packing cubes I was able to pack enough clothing for a week. It was extremely easy to put in the plane's overhead compartment, and the wheels rolled very smoothly for my entire journey. The only thing I noticed is that since the bag is so lightweight, the trolley bag I had was making it want to topple. Next time, I'd use a smaller tote or a north-south design to avoid that issue. – Rachael Hood

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $179.99 or less

Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 10 inches | Weight: 8.16 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 41 liters | Color options: Black, blue, red or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

This DELSEY PARIS carry-on is a well-built piece of hard-sided luggage. It meets carry-on suitcase size restrictions for most international airlines and offers an easily accessible front compartment – ideal for a laptop up to 15.6 inches or other items you want to be able to grab quickly. The suitcase has a TSA lock and two spacious internal compartments for clothing, shoes and travel gear. The double-spinner wheels glide smoothly across all types of surfaces, and the handle pulls out and retracts with ease.

I was incredibly impressed by this little workhorse of a carry-on bag. There are so many different pockets and compartments within it for organization, and it fits a surprising amount of clothes, shoes and accessories. The handle and wheels make it easy to maneuver, and the glossy exterior makes it look sleek and chic. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

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Price: $80 or less

Dimensions: 21.46 x 14.76 x 9.45 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 23 liters | Color options: Black, navy blue, orange or light blue Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year

The Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner is similar to many other hard-sided luggage products on the market, but it's available at a fraction of the price. The ABS shell is textured, so even if you – or luggage handlers – bang it around a bit, it does not show scuffs or scratches easily. The double-spinner wheels (a must, honestly, in today's luggage landscape) make the bag effortless to maneuver.

Inside, one side of the bag features a compression strap, while the other has a large fabric zippered closure, complete with a few organizer pockets for smaller items. Thanks to its availability on Amazon Prime, the carry-on luggage ships quickly, so it's also a great option if you need new luggage in a crunch.

This carry-on bag is a superb selection for the budget-conscious traveler. I appreciated how much I was able to get into this bag (it doesn't look huge, but it fit quite a lot), and the textured exterior really ups the durability factor. The compression straps and the interior organizer even helped me squeeze in a bit more. – Erin Evans

Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner

Price: $699 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 (up to 11.5) inches | Weight: 10 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 37-48 liters | Color options: Black, navy or olive Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

The Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner has a standout feature that other bags on this list don't: one-touch CX expansion. Exclusive to Briggs & Riley, this technology allows your bag to expand and compress in one swift motion. Simply press and pull up on the red levers found at opposite ends of the bag, and it will grow 2.5 inches. Once you've packed your belongings, push down on the buttons to compress the bag before zipping it up.

This bag also features a garment folder to reduce wrinkles in a suit or dress, as well as cinch-down garment panels to secure the clothing in place. Other convenient features include interior mesh compartments for organization, an exterior pocket for airport essentials (or even your laptop) and a signature PowerPocket where you can charge your smartphone.

While the bag is undoubtedly an investment at $700, its "simple as that" guarantee (free repairs forever, no questions asked) – plus sturdy features like impact-resistant corner guards and self-repairing zippers – means you'll have it for life.

When it comes to quality, this is the best luggage I've ever used – period. The compression/expansion system is just the icing on the cake. – Amanda Norcross

Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Price: $165 or less

Dimensions: 16 x 14.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 5.1 pounds Packing capacity: 2-4 days; 34 liters | Color options: Chocolate, oatmeal or rose quartz Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 2-year limited

Compact and filled with useful features, this CALPAK underseater has a water-resistant exterior, a TSA-approved lock, and side and top handles for easy lifting into the overhead or pushing under the seat. There's a telescoping handle, a luggage trolley sleeve and two exterior pockets for stowing small items like your passport, boarding pass and earbuds.

On the inside, there's a padded laptop sleeve, multiple interior pockets and compression straps. For added convenience, the main panel can be secured via built-in snaps to get your laptop out while traveling (and keep your other belongings from spilling out), or you can unsnap it while packing to maximize the interior storage space.

When I'm traveling on a quick trip with my laptop, this is my go-to bag. Its compact size glides easily under the seat, and it's also compact and light enough to fit into the overhead bin even on the smallest regional planes. I love the laptop sleeve and the zippered exterior pocket for my book, earbuds and wipes. To maximize the interior space, I use compression cubes from Lug , and I'm able to squeeze in four to five outfits, a pair of shoes and daily necessities. – Rachael Hood

Price: $83 or less

Dimensions: 20.4 x 14.9 x 8.2 inches | Weight: 6.35 pounds Packing capacity: 2-3 days; 26 liters | Color options: Black, olive, gray, red, blue or purple Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year

This simple but sturdy carry-on piece from Amazon is a great option for business travelers, thanks to its front pocket for easy laptop access, smooth double-spinner wheels and TSA lock. This Amazon Basics soft-sided carry-on also features a handle on the bottom between the wheels, which makes it easy to put the bag up into and pull it out of the overhead bin. On some airplanes, it may even be small enough to fit under the seat.

The interior of the bag features one large compartment with two compression straps, plus two zippered pockets on the opposite site. The 20.4-inch option is ideal for shorter trips, but this style is available in larger sizes as well. Another bonus: It's available on Amazon Prime, so it ships quickly.

This Amazon Basics option is on the smaller side for a carry-on, but that's what makes it a solid choice for business travelers going on short trips who only need to pack a few things. The laptop pocket is easily accessible, and the handle on the bottom of the bag is super useful for hauling it out of an overhead bin. The black color is professional, and the price can't be beat. – Erin Evans

Price: $565 or less

Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 9.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 43 liters | Color options: Gray/cognac, gray/chocolate, gray/black or black Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Lifetime with a 100-day trial

Constructed with premium materials, this luxury carry-on has Italian leather accents, Japanese spinner wheels and a polycarbonate exterior with an aluminum metal frame for stability. It closes via two secure latches with combination locks (rather than a zipper). There's a front laptop compartment with a smaller pocket and pen slots to keep business essentials or travel documents easy to access.

The interior has leather details, compression straps and a removable compression pad with a pocket – ideal for small items like ties, fashion jewelry or silk scarves. Travelers can also purchase an additional compression pad to have a pad on each side of the interior compartment.

This suitcase exudes luxury with its Italian leather trim and understated elegance. The design of it looks very sleek, the interior is spacious, the handle is very sturdy and the wheels glide with ease. I especially liked that the top of the suitcase is very flat, which gave my trolley bag a secure base so it wasn't moving around while I was at the airport, and the front compartment was ideal for accessing my laptop on the go. It feels very sturdy, but the only downside is it weighs more than a typical carry-on. – Rachael Hood

Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder – 22"

Price: $270 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 40 liters | Color options: Black Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The North Face's 22-inch Rolling Thunder duffel doesn't have the bells and whistles of other carry-on options, but it's a sturdy and reliable option for those who want a duffel style on wheels. The duffel has a hard-sided back panel, two wheels that can withstand various terrain and plastic bumpers for abrasion resistance. The soft-sided top of the bag is made of water-resistant Base Camp material and nylon for extra durability. There are two zippered pockets on the outside to stash small items and a mesh pocket inside for some added organization.

I brought this duffel on a trip to New Zealand, and it held up very well. The Rolling Thunder had no issues after being checked on six different flights, and the flexibility of the style allowed me to easily store it out of the way in my campervan once I had unpacked. It's definitely a simpler style, but it does its job well. Be aware, though, that this wheeled style doesn't have straps that would allow you to carry it like a duffel; it can only be rolled. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $200 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 10 inches | Weight: 3.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-10 days; 35 liters | Color options: Multiple options but color availability changes frequently Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

When it comes to hands-free and adventure travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L can't be beat. This lightweight carry-on backpack comes with a sternum strap, a removable waist belt and a weight-distributing harness system, all to make for a comfortable carry (since sore shoulders can be a concern when it comes to carrying backpacks through time-consuming airport experiences).

Organization is a breeze with a top zippered pocket – perfect for storing travel documents or a Cotopaxi hip pack – and a padded laptop sleeve on the outside. Internally, you'll find two mesh compartments, one large and one subdivided, that work great with Cotopaxi packing cubes . The backpack's straps can be tucked away for more streamlined travel, and the bag even comes with a rain cover (though the Allpa is already TPU-coated to be water-resistant).

Furthermore, Cotopaxi is dedicated to sustainability : 94% of Cotopaxi products contain repurposed, recycled or responsible materials. The vibrant, one-of-a-kind Del Dia Allpa backpacks , for example, use remnant fabric.

I've taken my Cotopaxi Allpa on countless adventures and it's survived everything – wind, rain, being shoved into tiny rental cars, you name it. Besides being incredibly durable, I love how much this backpack can fit; my longest trip so far with only the Allpa 35L as my luggage has been a comfortable nine days, and that included packing bulky cold-weather gear. I just wish it had a water bottle pocket like the Allpa 42L does! – Leilani Osmundson

Also Recommended

Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner: While the Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner is a solid (and sustainable) carry-on bag for less than $200, it doesn't offer quite enough space – especially for someone who may be traveling for longer.

Away The Aluminum Carry-On Bag: This is a well-built carry-on bag. The only downfall is that it's on the heavier side, weighing nearly 11 pounds. Away's Aluminum Carry-On is also more than twice the cost of the standard carry-on by Away, which works just as well.

Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner: This is a great soft-sided option if you're looking for a lightweight suitcase. Featuring a sleek nylon construction, a large front exterior pocket and internal zippered pockets, the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner works well but isn't as lightweight as the July Carry-on Light.

Monos Carry-on Plus: It's a high-quality suitcase with a lot of internal details, but given its larger size this bag doesn't fit in the overhead compartment on multiple planes (especially regional jets). That said, if you're traveling domestically on larger planes, the Monos Carry-on Plus could be an option to consider. Or, the smaller standard Monos Carry-on could be a good option as well.

Pros and Cons of Hard-sided Luggage

Pros and cons of soft-sided luggage, frequently asked questions.

Aside from traditional rolling suitcases, the following items can be used as carry-on luggage provided they meet carry-on size limitations (which vary by airline) and fit in the overhead bin or fully under the seat (not sticking out) in front of you.

• Duffel and weekender bags:  This includes weekenders and duffel bags with wheels . Just note that wheels are included in carry-on dimension restrictions.
• Garment bags:  These are also considered carry-on baggage by most airlines. You can place your garment bag in the overhead bin, or in some cases, a small closet on the plane.
• Pet carriers:  Some airlines consider pet carriers to be carry-on luggage. Check with your chosen airline when preparing for your trip with Fido.
• Backpacks:  If your carry-on backpack fits under the seat, it will count toward your personal item allowance on most major airlines. This means you'll have the option to bring an additional bag for the overhead bin.
• Diaper bags: If you're traveling with a baby, diaper bags and other baby travel gear generally don't count toward either allowance – meaning you can bring these items in addition to your carry-on bag and personal item.

Purses , briefcases and camera bags can be carried on the plane as well, but usually aren't considered carry-on bags and are instead labeled personal items. Underseater bags – often designed specifically to fit comfortably under a plane seat – are also ideal as a personal item.

Typically, travelers can bring one carry-on bag (for the overhead bin) and one personal item (for under the seat) on the plane, free of charge.

Carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline. Several major U.S. carriers, such as American Airlines and United, impose a 22 x 14 x 9-inch rule. If you're buying new carry-on luggage, this is a good default size to choose – especially if you fly with a variety of airlines.

For international airlines, it's often 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches. To be sure about dimensions as well as any weight restrictions, see our guide to Carry-on Luggage Size & Weight by Airline . It usually doesn't matter how heavy your carry-on bag is, though some airlines do monitor the weight.

• Hard-sided: The hard-sided July Carry On Light weighs less than 4 pounds, making it one of the most lightweight carry-on bags on the market. Other lightweight carry-on bags we recommend include the hard-sided Away The Carry-On (7.5 pounds) and the Amazon 20-Inch Hardside Spinner (7.3 pounds).
• Soft-sided: If you're looking for a lightweight, soft-sided carry-on bag, consider the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner (4.8 pounds) and the Samsonite SoLyte DLX Carry-On Spinner (7.1 pounds).

Hard-sided luggage is often heavier than soft-sided luggage – but only by a few pounds. If you're planning to purchase a hard-sided carry-on bag, look for something that's made of polycarbonate or polypropylene, both of which are lightweight yet durable materials.

How We Tested

Our team tested 26 carry-on bags across several price points and on a variety of trips spanning overseas flights, weekend getaways, overnight trips and more. We traveled by car, plane, train and cruise and packed for a variety of climates and activities, from shore excursions in Mexico to rainy road trips around Iceland. For bags with wheels, we tested their maneuverability on multiple surfaces, including gravel, pavement, grass, moving walkways, cobblestone and carpet. After four months of testing, we deem these carry-on bags the best of the best for 2024.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

The following editors personally tested the luggage recommended in this article:

Erin Evans , Managing Editor: Evans loves a durable bag and also can't say no to a good deal. Considering how banged up luggage can get, her picks on this list are both well-made and affordable.

Rachael Hood , Senior Editor: Hood rarely checks a bag, yet she loves to pack a lot and pick up some new finds along her journey. She looks for a combination of durability, functionality, interior space and overall appearance.

Catriona Kendall , Associate Editor: Kendall opts for convenient and versatile carry-ons that can work well for weekend and weekslong trips alike.

Amanda Norcross , Content & SEO Strategist: Norcross has mastered the art of traveling with a carry-on bag only, but believes this is only possible with the right luggage.

Leilani Osmundson , Digital Producer: Osmundson prefers lightweight, streamlined luggage that's ideal for adventure travel.

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• What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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The Best Carry-On Luggage Of 2024, Tested And Reviewed By Our Editors

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Checking a bag isn’t for everyone—many travelers try to avoid it at all costs. The best carry-on luggage makes efficient use of space, meaning you won’t need to hand off your bag at the check-in desk. We researched the best carry-on luggage and asked our jetsetting remote editors—including senior travel editor Astrid Taran , who is staunchly “carry-on only”—to test a variety of top-rated options. After months of travel, we determined that the Monos Carry-On Pro is the best carry-on overall. Away’s The Carry-On won as the best hardside choice, while Briggs & Riley’s Baseline Essential 22-inch Carry-On is our top softside recommendation.

The best carry-on luggage makes efficient use of space, meaning you won’t need to stress about ... [+] handing your bag off to the check-in desk.

Meant to never leave your side, the best carry-on luggage can be easily maneuvered around the airport, tucked into a plane’s overhead compartment, and in some cases, slid underneath the seat in front of you. Our selections below check all of those boxes and come in different styles, materials and price ranges. For more luggage options, we also put together our Best Luggage guide, which includes our picks for the best checked luggage , the best luggage sets , the best underseat luggage and more.

• Best Carry-On Luggage Overall: Monos Carry-On Pro
• Best Hardside Carry-On Luggage: Away The Carry-On
• Best Affordable Hardside Carry-On Luggage: Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner
• Best Softside Carry-On Luggage: Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22-inch Carry-On
• Best Affordable Softside Carry-On Luggage: Travelpro Maxlite 5
• Best Luxury Carry-On Luggage: Rimowa Original Cabin Plus
• Best Carry-On Luggage For International Travel: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Spinner
• Best Carry-On Luggage With Lock: Carl Friedrik The Carry-On
• Best Carry-On Luggage For Style: Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus
• Best Carry-On Underseat Luggage: Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage

Best Carry-On Luggage Overall

Sleek, stylish option to keep your essentials safe, monos carry-on pro.

Dimensions: 22 × 14 × 9 inches | Weight: 7.8 pounds | TSA-approved lock: Yes | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

• Smart organization and built-in compression
• Travelers who want a wide variety of color options
• Laptop users seeking a padded front pocket
• You tend to overpack

The versatility, durability and sharp aesthetics of Monos’ Carry-On Pro make it an all-around excellent hardside luggage option—and our top carry-on recommendation overall. It’s designed with 360-degree spinner wheels that are easy to maneuver and an internal pad to compress your clothing as well as a front padded compartment for extra storage and protection. This polycarbonate exterior is outfitted with an ultra-sturdy telescopic handle, TSA-approved lock and vegan leather details. This pick also comes in a Carry-On Pro Plus size, which offers more packing space—but may be too big for some international flights.

“Unlike other hardside bags I’ve traveled with, this suitcase’s front laptop pocket  actually  has enough room for both my laptop and other travel essentials,” says Forbes Vetted updates writer Fran Sales , who has used the Monos Carry-On Pro on multiple trips. “I’ve put this bag through the wringer and it continues to feel hefty, sturdy and secure.” Senior updates editor Karen Tietjen has also traveled with this bag and adds, “It’s worth noting how cute it looks—the fun colors make it easy to identify in a busy airport or baggage claim.”

Expert tip: Sales notes that the suitcase’s telescoping handles can get stuck at certain heights if the suitcase is packed too tightly, so while the internal compression pad is a nice feature, this bag may not be the best choice for chronic overpackers.

The 2024 Forbes Vetted Best Product Awards are here: Explore our 150 top-recommended items across categories after extensive research and testing.

Best Hardside Carry-On Luggage

Durable carry-on with optional upgrades, away the carry-on.

Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.7 x 9 inches | Weight: 7.1 pounds | TSA-approved lock: Yes | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

• Travelers seeking a durable, long-lasting hardside carry-on
• A thoughtful interior compression system
• A comfortable underside grab handle
• You prefer a suitcase with a front pocket

You’ve likely seen Away’s lightweight suitcases all over airports—the brand’s popularity is far from surprising. With a spectrum of Instagram-worthy colors, upgrades like suitcase or luggage tag monogramming and convenient details such as smooth swiveling wheels, an underside grab handle, a TSA-approved lock and a hidden laundry bag, these suitcases don’t skimp on features. At just over seven pounds, the brand’s Carry-On is able to hold nearly 40 liters, and its polycarbonate shell is both durable and flexible. This suitcase also comes in a slightly larger Bigger Carry-On size as well as an expandable Flex version , which made our list of the best luggage for international travel . “This is my favorite piece of luggage of all time,” says Forbes Vetted’s managing editor Emmy Favilla , who became an immediate fan of this suitcase after traveling with it on several trips. “It's very lightweight, and I appreciate the interior mesh pocket and compression buckles to help fit more items. The handle is the perfect height and has two settings.”

Expert tip: If you’re still on the fence, Away allows returns within the first 100 days of purchase. Monogrammed items cannot be returned; however, all items are covered under the company’s limited lifetime warranty.

Best Affordable Hardside Carry-On Luggage

Well-priced option from a top name in travel, samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

Dimensions: 21.25 × 15.25 × 10 inches | Weight: 6.5 pounds | TSA-approved lock: Yes | Warranty: Limited 10-year global warranty

• Travelers who only take a few trips each year
• Those who prefer an expandable bag (this one expands up to one inch)
• Those seeking a wide range of colors
• You need a more impact-resistant bag

The Samsonite Freeform Spinner is compact but expandable when you want extra packing room. It also has interior pockets and a divider to keep everything in its place. Four wheels make it easy to tote and a push-button handle pulls out and retracts as needed. Other notable features include a recessed TSA-approved lock, a built-in ID tag and a modern color palette that includes navy, mint green and white with gray accents.

“I have used this bag on dozens of trips now and it’s still in great shape,” says Forbes Vetted senior deals editor Kara Cuzzone . “It’s come in handy on both weekend trips and longer flights. The expandable panel is so convenient for squeezing extra clothes in without having to opt for a larger suitcase and the durable exterior ensures that my more delicate belongings stay protected.”

Expert tip: This suitcase’s polypropylene shell is not as impact-resistant as polycarbonate or aluminum. That’s perfectly fine for a carry-on bag, but risky as a checked bag that might get tossed around on an airport carousel.

Best Softside Carry-On Luggage

Elegant and durable with a lifetime warranty.

Briggs & Riley

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22-inch Carry-On

Dimensions:  22 × 14 × 9 inches |  Weight:  9.7 pounds | TSA-approved lock:  Yes |  Warranty:  Lifetime warranty

• Travelers who prefer flexible softside luggage
• An elegant look made with durable material
• Generous warranty that covers any damage
• You’re on a budget

Briggs & Riley is a luxury luggage brand trusted for its durability and excellent lifetime warranty. Forbes Vetted’s branded content editor Luke Fater used the brand’s Baseline Essential 22-inch Carry-On for “multiple trips, including on a plane, train and bus.” After extensive testing, Fater is a fan. “The spinner rolled like butter,” he says. “It has no signs of fraying in the stitching or zippers, either. The ballistic nylon material seems super-resistant to wear and tear. Overall, the bag is very cleverly made.” This bag was also tested by Forbes Vetted contributor Neha Tandon , who notes that its sophisticated style has garnered many compliments at the airport. “Two strangers came up to me and asked about it on my last trip,” she says.

The suitcase features a spring-loaded handle, flat interior and built-in compartment configuration. Briggs & Riley suitcases don’t come cheap, but its high-end features like a built-in garment folder, compressive technology and shock-absorbent wheels make it a worthy investment.

Expert tip: The brand is known for its extremely forgiving warranty, covering repairs for any sort of damage free of charge for as long as you own the bag.

Best Affordable Softside Carry-On Luggage

Ultra light, stain-resistant and expandable, travelpro maxlite 5.

Dimensions:  22 × 14 × 9 inches   |  Weight:  5.4 pounds   |  TSA-approved lock : Yes   |  Warranty:  5-year limited warranty; covers cost of repair for damage by an airline if registered within first 120 days of purchase

• Travelers seeking a lightweight and expandable bag
• Those who don’t want to spend more than $200
• Minimal wheel noise
• You need a more spacious exterior pocket

Travelpro’s Maxlite 5 impressed our editors for being a lightweight bag that offers significant capacity (46 liters, to be exact). At under $200, it’s not only a solid affordable carry-on, but a great suitcase overall, which is why we named it one of our best softside luggage options. Designed with 360-degree rollers that make it smooth to maneuver around any airport, it features a rubber grip with contoured finishings for extra comfort. Its exterior is coated with the brand’s signature water and stain-resistant technology, meaning no matter how many rainstorms you drag it through, it still looks fresh. For overpackers, it also expands a generous two inches.

“This suitcase is exceedingly light and easy to maneuver,” says deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala , who traveled with the bag on a family trip to Jamaica over spring break. “I never got tripped up navigating tight aisles or security lines with it. One of my favorite features is the padded handle on the side, which makes it extra easy to grab and hoist as needed.”

Expert tip: While this bag comes with a handy exterior pocket, Gordon Sala notes that it won’t accommodate bulkier items. “The pocket could be wider,” she says.

Best Luxury Carry-On Luggage

An airport calling card built to last, rimowa original cabin plus.

Dimensions:  21.7 × 15.8 × 9.1 inches |  Weight:  9.5 pounds |  TSA-approved lock:  Yes |  Warranty:  Lifetime warranty

• Those looking for a long-term investment piece
• Smooth and quiet wheels
• Lifetime warranty
• You plan to toss this bag around, since aluminum is prone to denting

Investing in a solid carry-on suitcase can fulfill your travel needs for years to come, and if you’re looking to make a purchase that truly lasts, Rimowa is an excellent choice. Durable and lightweight, the beloved German brand’s bags are known globally for their craftsmanship, and its classic Original Cabin is stylishly recognizable in any airport. It has a well-made aluminum exterior and a lifetime guarantee that covers any damage.

Forbes Vetted’s executive director of business development and partnerships, Alexis Caldwell, has used Rimowa’s Original Cabin Plus on both long and short trips. “This carry-on has come with me on three-week trips to various destinations, and I never felt like I needed more space,” she says. Caldwell specifically called out the bag’s built-in compression system, which “allows me to squeeze so much into it.”

Expert tip: While they are a badge of honor for some frequent flyers, an aluminum suitcase is probably not the best choice if you don’t want to see occasional dents on your bag.

Best Carry-On Luggage For International Travel

Ideally sized for international airline cabins, travelpro platinum elite carry-on spinner.

Dimensions:  21 × 14 × 9 inches   |  Weight:  7.8 pounds   |  TSA-approved lock : Yes   |  Warranty:  5-year limited warranty; covers cost of repair for damage by an airline if registered within first 120 days of purchase

• Fitting into international airline overhead cabins
• Durable material and sturdy zippers
• Two large exterior pockets
• You prefer a modern aesthetic

Travelpro’s carry-on spinner is the correct size for international airline cabins, meaning you’ll never need to worry about your bag being snagged for a gate check. The softside suitcase is smartly outfitted with compression straps, accessory pockets, a water-resistant toiletry bag and a removable suiter system. There are eight self-aligning spinner wheels along with chrome zippers. As for the handle, a rubber contour grip, four adjustable heights and airline-grade aluminum guarantee comfort as well as resilience. 

Forbes Vetted’s senior travel editor, Astrid Taran , tested this bag on a recent trip and surprised at how well it performed. “I usually prefer hardside luggage, but this bag’s exterior felt so sturdy that I almost forgot it was softside,” she says. (It’s worth noting that this bag also comes in a hardside version ). “I was particularly impressed by how durable the zippers are,” she adds. “I tend to use every inch of every pocket space and the zippers felt completely secure throughout all of my tugging.” Forbes Vetted’s editorial director, Brinda Ayer , also tested this bag and appreciates its sturdiness. “I haven’t had any tearing or scuffing yet, even after a few trips, and the handle has a comfortable grip,” she says.

Expert tip: “This bag is not super sleek or minimalist like other trendy luggage brands out there,” says Ayer, nothing that if you’re seeking the aesthetic of Monos or Away, this bag can look underwhelming at first glance. Regardless, it still scores high marks for its many versatile features.

Best Carry-On Luggage With Lock

Sleek and compact.

Carl Friedrik

Carl Friedrik The Carry-On

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

• Travelers who like the security of a snap locking system
• Business trips that call for sophisticated design
• Quiet spinner wheels
• You prefer a traditional zip-around suitcase

For the traveler who wants an alternative to zippered carry-on luggage, Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On is more than just good looks. This pick offers high-end craftsmanship (that chic trimming is Italian leather) as well as 360-degree spinner wheels that are silent as a whisper. While its stylish exterior makes it an excellent gift for the business traveler in your life, it’s a fit for any type of excursion, as it is sized to fit in the overhead bin of domestic and European cabins. For overpackers, it comes with durable compression straps as well as a pad that helps maximize packing space.

Taran has used this suitcase on several recent trips and found its lock easy to use. “I usually only use zippered bags, because I’m terrified of accidentally getting locked out of my things,” she says. “But this lock felt both super secure and very easy to open when it was time to unpack.”

Expert tip: Carl Friedrik suitcases do not come with zippers, so this is a great choice for the traveler who prefers a snap lock on their luggage.

Best Carry-On Luggage For Style

Chic option from an eco-conscious brand, paravel aviator carry-on plus.

Dimensions:  22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches |  Weight:  8.5 pounds |  TSA-approved lock:  Yes |  Warranty:  10-year limited warranty

• Sustainability lovers
• Those looking for a bag that is both stylish and durable
• Smooth wheels and a comfortable handle grip
• You need a lot of built-in interior pockets

Paravel’s carbon-neutral suitcases not only do good, they look good, too. The brand has gained a loyal following of eco-conscious travelers thanks to its commitment to using post-consumer recycled materials to make its bags. The Aviator Carry-On Plus is chic, sturdy and comes with a compression board and a laundry bag for dirty clothing. It’s also completely made with recycled aluminum and recycled polycarbonate.

Taran traveled with the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus on a recent trip and was won over by its style and maneuverability. “This is a great looking bag,” she says. “There’s a lot of fashion brands out there leaning into design-forward luggage, but this carry-on actually feels very sturdy and well-made. The wheels never get snagged in airport carpets, which is a major pet peeve of mine.”

Expert tip: While this suitcase does not come with a cushioned handle, its handle features a vegan leather wrap that provides a comfortable grip.

Best Carry-On Underseat Luggage

Small enough to slide under a seat, calpak hue mini carry-on luggage.

Dimensions: 16 x 14 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 6.4 pounds | TSA-approved lock:  Yes |  Warranty : 5-year limited warranty

• Travelers seeking an alternative to heavy backpacks
• Sliding under a plane or train seat
• Budget flights where only a personal item is allowed
• You need more than two days’ worth of clothes

Sometimes a bulky backpack just won’t do—that’s where an underseat carry-on comes in. These smaller bags can easily slide under an airplane or train seat, making them a great choice for weekend trips where you don’t want to sling a heavy duffel over your shoulder. They can also be used as a personal item on budget airlines that tend to charge hefty fees for carry-on suitcases.

The Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On, one of our top underseat luggage picks, is just the right size to slide under most airline and train seats (but make sure to check your airline’s cabin dimensions beforehand). It comes with wheels and a top-mounted handle that make it easy to maneuver around at the airport or train station, and its hardshell exterior means it won’t snag on an aircraft or train’s carpet as you’re sliding it. Taran, who used this bag on a recent Amtrak train trip, says it’s an ideal bag for a trip that doesn’t require many items. “This bag easily slid under the seat in front of me on my train trip,” she says. “I used it for an overnight and packed it with a few shirts and two pairs of pants and still had space.”

Expert tip: When you’re not using it for short trips, this bag can easily be used as a piece of children’s luggage, making it a versatile investment for parents.

The Best Last-Minute Father’s Day Sales To Shop Before Sunday

The 6 best bidets for your bathroom, based on a year of testing, why trust forbes vetted.

• All of the picks on this list have been tested by Forbes Vetted editors and staffers, including senior updates editor Karen Tietjen , senior deals editor Kara Cuzzone , managing editor Emmy Favilla , deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala , editorial director Brinda Ayer and more.
• This story was written by senior travel editor Astrid Taran , who has visited over 35 countries throughout the course of her career and always tries her best to never check a bag—meaning she knows her way around a carry-on suitcase.
• To keep you up-to-date on the best selections (and prices) available, we refresh this roundup regularly. In its latest May 2024 update, Taran asked Forbes Vetted’s editors to weigh in on the bags they’ve been traveling with recently, adding in pros, cons, likes and dislikes about each one.

How We Chose The Best Carry-On Luggage

• To narrow down the best carry-on luggage, we relied on expert advice, independent reviews, research and personal experience to make all of our recommendations. For this tested story, we asked Forbes Vetted editors and staffers to test multiple suitcases, then give us their opinions on the pieces of luggage they felt truly stood apart from the pack.

The Monos Carry-On Pro features a spacious laptop pocket that can hold both a laptop and other ... [+] travel essentials.

• We took into consideration the factors that separate one piece of carry-on luggage from the rest. This includes not only common variables such as size, weight, build quality and features, but also how you intend to use the luggage, what kind of trip you have booked and what you’ll be carrying.
• We prioritized brands with excellent warranties, so you can feel confident in your luggage purchase in the long run.
• We sought out carry-on luggage pieces that have garnered a substantial amount of positive reviews; each of our picks has an average rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.

Travelpro’s Platinum Elite Carry-On is the correct size for international airline cabins, meaning ... [+] you’ll never need to worry about your bag being snagged for a gate check.

What To Consider When Buying Carry-On Luggage

The best carry-on luggage for you depends on your trip and travel style. Here are the top things to consider.

The most important quality of carry-on luggage is its dimensions—you want to ensure it meets airline requirements so you won’t get slapped with extra fees to check your bag at the gate. Some luggage is designed to be expandable, so you can increase the amount of storage space when needed.

Durability And Warranty

Quality luggage can be pricey, but a carry-on you can depend on is worth the investment. If you’re an avid traveler and plan on investing in expensive luggage, make sure it comes with a good warranty. Further, if you plan on purchasing from a third-party retailer like Amazon, double-check with the brand directly to make sure the warranty still applies.

Extra Features

You also want to consider maneuverability and features like interior pockets and dedicated laptop sleeves. For extra security, look for a carry-on with a built-in TSA-approved combination lock, which TSA agents can open with a master key so they don’t have to damage your luggage if it must be inspected. Finally, overpackers will appreciate a carry-on that comes with built-in compression, whether that be straps or pads. Multiple options on our list, like the Monos Carry-On Pro and Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On , offer some form of this.

While a bright color will make your bag pop, keep in mind that lighter shades are more likely to show scuffs and spots. If black feels too generic, opt for another dark shade.

Briggs & Riley's Baseline Essential 22-inch Carry-On offers high-end features like a built-in ... [+] garment folder, compressive technology and shock-absorbent wheels.

Is Hard Or Soft Luggage Better For A Carry-On?

Both hardside and softside luggage both have their advantages, but based on our testing experiences, hardside suitcases make better carry-ons. Hardside luggage is stronger and can protect any delicate items you’re packing. Hardside carry-on suitcases also hold their shape in overhead bins next to your fellow passengers’ bags and can stay strong against the unceremonious shoving they might endure up there. However, softside luggage can compress and fit into smaller spaces than hardside luggage. And while they might not be as durable as hardside versions, softside carry-ons don’t scuff or scratch. Because they’re made of fabric, they are prone to ripping, though—so we recommend shopping from a brand with an extensive warranty, such as Briggs & Riley .

What Size Is A TSA-Approved Carry-On?

The specific size allowance for carry-on luggage varies from one airline to the next, but the general rule is that a carry-on bag should be no bigger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches. We recommend always checking your preferred airline’s size restrictions online before heading to the airport, as these rules are subject to change. For more international-sized luggage options, read our guide to the Best Luggage For International Travel .

What Is The Best Bag To Use As A Carry-On?

After extensively researching the best luggage brands on the market, we determined that the Monos Carry-On Pro is the best carry-on luggage out there. It has so much to offer in terms of overall design, durability and added features, making it a great choice for trips that warrant a carry-on suitcase. However, if you’re looking for a more basic option that won’t break the bank, we recommend the Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner . While it may not be as durable as our top choice, it’s great for occasional fliers who’d rather put their money into another aspect of their travel budget.

More Travel Stories To Shop:

• Best Luggage Tags
• Best TSA-Approved Luggage Locks
• Best Packing Cubes
• Best Passport Holders
• Best Travel Accessories

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• Reprints & Permissions

Watch CBS News

The best luggage for 2024

By Leah Groth , Meredith Gordon , Kaylyn McKenna

Edited By Fox Van Allen , Gabriele Shacknai

Updated on: June 13, 2024 / 2:44 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.

Summer is here, which means many of us will hit the road (or plane) for summer travel. Before you pack your bags, it's time to upgrade your luggage , even taking advantage of summer's best luggage deals.

The CBS Essentials luggage experts scoured top brands, from Rimowa to Samsonite , and top retailers (not just Amazon!). We even hands-on tested some of the most popular models, all to find the best luggage -- and the best luggage deals that you can get right now. Discover customer-loved  soft-sided luggage , carry-on luggage , aluminum luggage and more from top luggage brands below. 

Whether you're taking a red-eye on a strict budget, taking a trip to Disney , or splurging on a cruise and want high style , we have your luggage needs covered. Let's go!

The best luggage for 2024 

There's no reason to delay shopping for the best luggage in 2024. Select one of the quick links below to explore our top picks for each luggage category or scroll through to find all of our favorite luggage options for 2024. 

The best carry-on luggage of 2024

The best checked luggage of 2024, the best aluminum luggage of 2024, the best soft-sided luggage of 2024, the best luggage for kids in 2024, the best overnight bags, duffels and weekenders of 2024, the best pet carriers of 2024.

Not a fan of checking your luggage? We don't blame you. These carry-on options make travel all the more enjoyable, convenient, and maybe just a little more worry-free. 

Monos Carry-On 

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

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

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

Why we like the Monos Carry-On:

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

Away Carry-On

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

Why we love Away's Carry-On:

• The included, removable charger ensures you'll be able to recharge your phone on the go, even when you can't find an outlet.
• The compression panel helps you get more clothes into this suitcase when packing.
• It comes with a lifetime warranty.

Paravel Aviator carry-on

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

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

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

Why we like the Paravel Aviator:

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

Samsonite Omni carry-on

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

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

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

Why we like the Samsonite Omni:

• This is one of the best-selling and well-reviewed suitcases on Amazon.
• It's a premium luggage option available for around $150.
• Comes in a wide range of color options to fit your tastes.

For heavier packers or those going on longer trips, the best checked luggage options in 2024 boast roomy interiors and ample protection for your belongings.

Rimowa Classic check-in

While Rimowa's Classic aluminum collection may cost more than some flights, consider the line's timeless, grooved suitcases an  investment for the long haul . Features include TSA-approved locks, a height-adjustable flex divider (to organize your smaller items) and a telescopic handle.  The larger bag , noted as the "L" bag on the Rimowa site, measures a little more than 30 inches, while the  slightly smaller medium , or "M" bag measures 27.6 inches. 

The check-ins feature a durable anodized aluminum alloy hardshell, riveted high-gloss aluminum corners, and hand-made leather handles. Plus, this Rimowa piece comes with a complementary leather luggage tag.

Why we like the Rimowa Classic check-In:

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

Samsonite Winfield 2 check-in

With 20,000-plus Amazon reviews and a 4.5-star average, this affordable, hard-shell carry-on offers great value. Weighing under 7 pounds, it's adored by customers for its spacious pockets and roomy interior.

This suitcase comes with multi-directional spinner wheels for effortless mobility. It's also expandable to help you pack everything you need for your next trip. Other great features include a TSA-compatible lock and a retractable telescope handle. 

"I recently used this suitcase on a three-week international vacation and was amazed at what I could fit in this thing,"  a verified buyer on Amazon  says. "With the help of some packing cubes, I was able to pack all of my clothes and toiletries for my trip with ease. Additionally, the zippers are high quality and easy to zip up."

The Samsonite Winfield 2 check-in comes in 14 colors. Prices vary by color.

Why we like the Samsonite Winfield 2 check-in: 

• It's available at a great price point for a top-rated suitcase.
•  It comes with a 10-year warranty. 
• It's built with four-directional spinner wheels for better maneuverability than other suitcases.

Away Medium check-in

Away's hard-sided, polycarbonate bags offer great protection for all your belongings. The suitcases boast 360-degree spinner wheels, and a removable, washable liner. They're available in two models:  The Medium  (26 inches) and  The Large  (29 inches). The price below is for the medium version.

"Away luggage provides so much versatility and dependability that I don't own any other luggage brands anymore," one reviewer shares. "I've used the Medium on two-week vacations and it carried enough clothes and toiletries for the duration. Just amazing quality of luggage as well as customer support, when my previous Medium had a zipper issue, they replaced it right away."

Need more room for all your souvenirs? Away offers an expandable "Flex" version of the check-in bag, which boasts two more inches of space. 

Why we like the Away Medium check-in:

• The suitcase is made with a lightweight polycarbonate shell, so even larger sizes aren't super heavy.
• The compression panel helps you fit more clothing into this suitcase when packing.

Monos Check-In large

The Monos Check-In is covered with an aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shell made from partially recycled materials. It features a TSA-approved combination lock, 360-degree spinner wheels and an anti-microbial lining. Have a Monos carry-on? 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. 

While we like the large bag for international travel or long domestic trips, there's also  a medium version  available on the site for shorter trips.

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. Price varies by color.

Quince expandable hardshell check-in suitcase

Quince, the price-transparent brand famous for $50 cashmere, also offers premium luggage at budget-friendly price points. Like the brand's leather jackets and luxurious but affordable sweaters, the minimalist travel bags are beloved by customers and social media users. 

This ultra-light check-in bag features a polycarbonate shell, interior compartments with a built-in compression panel, removable laundry bag, 360-degree wheels, a TSA-approved lock, telescopic handle and YKK zippers. Reviewers compare it to Monos luggage but for a fraction of the price. 

Why we like the Quince expandable hardshell check-in suitcase:

• It expands to an additional inch.
• The checked bag features an Interior compression system to maximize space.
• It features an aluminum  telescopic handle with a soft rubber handle for a comfortable grip.

Paravel Aviator Grand

It's all in the details with the carbon-neutral Paravel Aviator Grand. The 28-inch polycarbonate shell suitcase with vegan-leather-wrapped side handles and trim is made with recycled materials inside and out. It's perfect for packing 8 to 10 days' worth of clothing -- plus, four pairs of shoes!

"This suitcase is not only sleek but it is functional and can hold so many things," a reviewer on Paravel's website says.

To complete your Instagram-ready luxe travel aesthetic, order a monogrammed cabana tote, or a cabana bundle (featuring a monogrammed luggage tag, card case and passport case).

Why we like the Paravel Aviator Grand:

• Paravel luggage is carbon neutral, meaning that the company offsets the expected emissions from the manufacturing and delivery process as well as your first trip with the suitcases.
• The suitcase is made of recycled materials.
• The checked bag features 360-degree spinning wheel for smooth rolling.

We rounded up some of the best aluminum luggage from brands like Rimowa, Tumi, Zero Halliburton and Level8. 

Rimowa original Cabin carry-on 

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

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

Why we like the Rimowa Original Cabin carry-on:

• This suitcase comes with a lifetime warranty,
• Its sleek metallic material gives this carry-on a trendy, high-end look.
• Available in four colors.

Tumi 19 Degree aluminum check-in

Tumi crafted this sleek suitcase out of lightweight aluminum. Features include TSA-approved locks, smooth swivel wheels and an impact-resistant telescoping handle for all-around easy maneuverability. Interior highlights include compression straps, a removable garment sleeve and lots of zipper compartments for organization. Worried about losing your luggage? As part of the Tumi Tracer program, the bag includes a 20-digit number for easy identification. Plus its two TSA-integrated combination locks will keep your belonging safe and secure. 

"The 19 Degree aluminum series is very classy," says one reviewer. "It looks great when checking in and just sets you apart from the rest. I use my 19 Degree aluminum extended packing case and my 19 Degree carryon as a pair every time I travel internationally. I have peace of mind because this luggage series is very tough and protects my precious belongings."

Why we like the Tumi 19 Degree aluminum check-in: 

• It features durable aluminum exterior and sturdy extension handles, plus retractable side and top carry handles for easy loading and carrying. 
• It's available in four colors: silver, matte back, dark denim and textured blush. 

Zero Halliburton Continental aluminum carry-on

The luxurious 22-inch, 12.5-pound Zero Halliburton Continental suitcase fits overhead on most domestic flights. It boasts a smooth moving wheel system trademarked by the brand. A three-stage telescopic handle, TSA-compliant lock system, leather accents and a roomy interior with lots of organizational round out the features that make the brushed metal suitcase a keeper. Its smaller size also makes it a great choice for road trips.  

The suitcase also offers plenty of storage and internal compartments to keep all of your belongings organized. The Zero Halliburton Continental aluminum carry-on features a   zip separator, wide-panel-tie down straps with a mesh separator to hold clothes in place and a closure compression panel with an extra mesh pocket to hold smaller items. Available in silver, black and bronze. 

Why we like the Zero Halliburton Continental suitcase: 

• The suitcase features rubber-lined 360-degree wheels for improved ease of use, traction and shock absorption. 
• A built-in TSA-approved combination lock keeps your belongings secure. 
• It also comes with a magnetic leather ID tag and free monogramming.

Level8 Gibraltar aluminum carry-on

Crafted of aerospace-grade aluminum magnesium alloy, the Gibraltar aluminum carry-on, available in silver and gray, weighs 10 pounds and fits neatly in the overhead bin of an airplane or the trunk of a car. Keyless and zipper-less, the sleek suitcase boasts TSA-approved locks, 360-degree durable spinner wheels and comes with a four-piece organizer bag set. 

"The suitcase feels and looks high quality. It is heavier than your typical suitcase at 10 pounds, but on par with other metal suitcases," says one verified buyer. "I love the storage dividers, interior fabric, rubber gasket and pull-out handle." 

Why we like the Level8 Gibraltar aluminum carry-on:  

• It's made with scratch-resistant material and reinforce with meta corner protectors for long-lasting durability. 
• It includese removable dividers for flexible packing.
• The suitcase comes with a lifetime warranty. Relatively inexpensive for aluminum luggage. 

If you prefer soft-sided luggage over hard, check out these highly rated options.

Travelpro Maxlite 5

A budget-friendly but highly rated option from Travelpro, the ultra-lightweight Maxlight 5 offers a smooth ride on four spinner wheels and expanding capability (up to two inches) for when you need extra space. 

It's available in two carry-on and two checked sizes, and in a variety of colors. You can also purchase two or three-piece luggage sets.

Why we like the Travelpro Maxlite 5: 

• The Traveler Maxlite 5's fabric is stain resistant.
• It's lightweight at just over 5 pounds for the 19-inch carry-on.
• Like other Travelpro luggage, it comes with a lifetime warranty.

Samsonite Bartlett spinner

The soft-sided Bartlett is one of the most affordable suitcases from Samsonite -- and one of its bestselling suitcases, too. The polyester, soft-shell suitcase features multi-directional spinner wheels, a retractable handle and interior organizational pockets.

"My favorite bags, all sizes!" shared one reviewer. "They last forever! I travel extensively internationally and this is my bag. I use the smaller version as carry-on and [the medium spinner] as a checked bag." 

On sale for just $100, it's a terrific value. 

Why we like the Samsonite Bartlett spinner luggage:

• It can expand up to an extra two inches.
• It features rubberized corner protectors to help prevent damage or wear.
• It offers ample storage space with interior mesh pockets for simple organization.

Briggs & Riley Baseline

The Briggs & Riley Baseline is one of the sleekest and most luxurious soft-sided suitcases you can get on Amazon. It features shock-absorbing spinner wheels, a one-touch expansion system and a tri-fold garment folder that holds up to two suits without wrinkling. The bag also boasts a power pocket for storing a battery pack. and shock-absorbing spinner wheels for gliding through the airport. 

Available in a bunch of sizes, the suitcases come with straps so you can stack and secure them together for easy transport. 

Why we like the Briggs & Riley Baseline luggage:

• It has a simple one-touch expansion system.
• The suitcase has a twi-fold garment folder to prevent wrinkling while traveling with formalwear or business attire.
• The shock absorbing wheels make this bag easy to maneuver.

SwissGear Sion rolling luggage

Travelers on a budget should check out the SwissGear Sion, a highly rated softside suitcase. The no-frills model offers multiple front pockets to stash travel documents, a telescopic handle and spinner wheels. 

Available as a carry-on, in two checked sizes and in several colors. Prices vary by size and color. The price shown below is for the carry-on in black.

Why we like the SwissGear Sion rolling luggage:

• The suitcase is made with durable, scuff-resistant polyester fabric.
• It comes with convent side handles for carrying along with a push-pull roller handle.
• It has plenty of interior organization options with a removable zippered wet bag, a large mesh lid pocket and a small packing pocket.

Travelers Club and JetKids stand out in 2024 as great options for getting your little one ready for your next family vacation.

Travelers Club kids 5-piece luggage set

This five-piece set includes everything your child needs to travel in comfort and style. It comes with a 18-inch hardside carry-on, a backpack, a lunch bag, a neck and a luggage tag.

The set "has proven to be a delightful and practical purchase for my family's travel needs,"  one enthusiastic Amazon reviewer  says. "Designed with young travelers in mind, this luggage set offers a range of vibrant colors and playful patterns that instantly captivated my kids' imagination, making packing and traveling an enjoyable experience."

This set is recommended for kids ages six and up. 

Why we like the suitcase:

• It's made with smooth-rolling wheels and a telescoping handle for easy maneuvering.
• It's available in ten adorable prints. It's an affordable matching luggage set for kids.

JetKids by Stokke Bedbox ride-on carry-on suitcase

This 19-inch carry-on serves multiple purposes. It's a suitcase, ride-on transportation for little ones up to 77 pounds, a foot rest and it provides an in-air sleeping surface for kids age 2 and up. It's an excellent starter option for kids that want their own luggage but may get tired of walking or holding onto their suitcase in the airport. 

The case comes with an extendable lid elongating the seat, making a great place to rest feet. During the flight, a built-in mattress helps this suitcase transform any airplane seat into a comfy makeshift bed. 

"I dragged my feet on this purchase because of the price tag, but I have zero regrets after traveling solo with my two-year-old and five-year-old,"  one parent who purchased the suitcase  says. "This thing was so easy to maneuver through the airport and through the plane aisles that my two-year-old pulled it herself for most of the trip. The bed feature was super easy to set up and we used it to and from our destination." 

• It has a versatile design that allows kids to pull or ride on the suitcase. 
• It has a fun kid-friendly design. 
• It offers ample storage to fit all of your child's travel essentials. 

American Tourister Disney hardside carry-on

Kids determined to carry their own luggage might like the Disney-themed collection from American Tourister. Available in a variety of sizes and themes, including Disney Princess, Mickey and Minnie Mouse and "Frozen," the bag rolls on side-mounted skate wheels and has dual handles for maneuverability.  

"I was very impressed by how much you can pack in it. So light yet durable,"  one Amazon buyer  says. "We used it on our recent trip and our four year old was happy to pull it along." 

The carry-on has earned an impressive 4.8-star rating with almost 6,000 reviews. It is available in 16- and 18-inch sizes. Prices vary by size and color.  

Why we like this suitcase:

• You can buy this suitcase in a variety of design options featuring popular characters. 
• Reviewers report that it's durable enough to stand up to drops, scraps and kicking from little ones. 
• It's made with a lightweight polycarbonate shell.

Rockland Jr. My First Hardside spinner luggage

This fun dinosaur carry-on is a great starter piece for young children who want their own suitcase to roll. The carry-on is made with a durable and lightweight polycarbonate hard-side shell, easy roll 360-degree spin wheels and an adjustable handle. 

"My son loves this,"  one Amazon customer  says. "It's cute, lightweight and really sturdy. It's so great to finally have a suitcase for him."

There are also other characters available, including a dog, lady bug, frog, shark and more. 

• You can choose from several character and animal options. 
• It's easy for kids and adults to maneuver thanks to its four 360-degree wheels.
•  It features easy-grip rubber-lined zippers.

Calpak Hue mini carry-on

The Calpak Hue mini carry-on is the perfect option for kids who want "grown-up luggage" but still want to enjoy fun colors and a small, lightweight design. The 16-inch carry-on is made with a durable polycarbonate hard-shell exterior and features a TSA-approved lock. It also offers a zippered interior divider with multiple pockets for easy organization. 

"I bought the poppy color for my 8-year-old daughter and it is perfect for her," one reviewer on Calpak's website shares. "It's very easy for a child to maneuver through an airport and onto escalators. We packed clothes and shoes for a weeklong trip to the beach."

• Since the design is well-suited to both kids and adults, you won't have to worry about your child growing out of this suitcase. 
• The bag features a zippered interior divider with multiple pockets for easy organization. 
• It even comes with a two-year warranty.

Going on a quick trip? These weekender and overnight bags might not even count as a carry-on. 

Beis weekender bag

The bestselling Beis weekender bag is a TikTok and Instagram viral travel bag from actress Shay Mitchell's trendy luggage brand.

"This is my new favorite travel bag," CBS Essentials senior writer Lily Rose says. "The zippered bottom compartment is perfect for storing wet bathing suits, shoes or dirty laundry."  

Why we like the Beis weekender bag:

• It offers plenty of interior storage and organization with a one large zip pocket and two slip pockets.
• It features a padded laptop sleeve.
• It's bottom compartment is designed to keep your shoes, toiletries and other travel essentials separate.

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.

Away Everywhere Bag

With a padded laptop pocket, detachable key clip, pockets sized for water bottles, other gadgets and accessories and a detachable padded strap, Away's The Everywhere Bag makes the perfect -- and ridiculously chic -- travel companion. Your loved one can slip it over the handle of a suitcase while wheeling it around the airport.

One Away reviewer says: "I love my Everywhere bag. I recently travelled with it on a domestic flight and it was so convenient to place the bag under the seat. The best part of the bag is the zippers that go down to the lower portion of the bag, which when opened, gives easy access and visibility to all the contents." 

Why we like the Away The Everywhere Bag :  

• It offers ample storage for travel, work or the gym.
• It looks great.
• They already have the luggage. This is what's next.
• The bag comes with a trolley sleeve that can fit around your luggage handle for easy transport.

Those traveling with furry friends should invest in a great pet carrier , like one of these great options.

Away Pet Carrier

The Pet Carrier from  Away luggage  transports canine or feline friends in sleek style. It features sherpa bedding to feel like an at-home pet bed and is lined with water-resistant material in case of accidents.

Latch this pet carrier into a car seat belt or secure it via a sleeve to your Away luggage when you're on the move.  

"I bought two of these for my 8-pound dachshund mix and my 14-pound cavalier," says one reviewer. "Both fit comfortably and have plenty of space.

"I love the clasps on the back that attach to the seatbelt. We also took them on a Southwest flight and had no issues with the carriers fitting under the seat side by side."

Why we like the Away Pet Carrier:

• It holds pets up to 18 pounds.
• It's water-resistant for easy clean-up.
• It meets Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements.

Wild One travel carrier

Wild One, a brand focused solely on furry friends, has constructed a streamlined and reasonably priced travel carrier that doubles as an on-the-go pet bed. Mesh walls offer breathability during travel, while the shoulder strap detaches to become a travel leash. The interior cushion also folds down completely, so the carrier can double as a pet bed. 

This carrier is airline-compliant and is recommended for use with dogs up to 16 pounds. 

Why we like the Wild One travel carrier:

• It comes in two classic colors and two limited edition colors.
• It fits under the seat in front of you on airlines.
• The shoulder strap doubles as a leash.

Diggs Passenger pet carrier

The Diggs Passenger carrier is designed for easy cleaning. You can attach a pee pad to the carrier bed. Then, if your pet gets car sick or has an accident, you can easily swap out the pee pad through the side panel. The carrier meets most airline requirements and has been crash-tested for car travel. 

Choose from four colors. One color options is currently on sale.

Why we like the Diggs Passenger carrier:

• It's easy to clean if your pet has an accident.
• The carrier has great ventilation to keep your pet comfortable.
• It was crash-tested and received a 5-star rating from the Center for Pet Safety for car travel.

Best for pets traveling in cargo: Petmate Sky Kennel

Unfortunately, not all pets can fly in the main cabin of an airplane. Designed for cargo transport, this pet kennel with ventilation on all sides is available in six sizes, ranging from 21 to 48 inches, and protects animals and keeps them safe. 

It meets most airline cargo specifications for easy and safe travel. All sizes include clip-on bowls and ID stickers, while the 21- and 28-inch versions offer a handle for carrying. Make sure to get the right size kennel for your pet, generally a crate allowing for space to stand, turn around, sit erect or lie down. 

Prices vary by size.

Why we like the Petmate Sky Kennel:

• It has 360-degree ventilation for optimal air flow.
• The kennel meets most airline cargo specifications.
• It features a secure four-way vault door.

Most versatile travel carrier: Lesure 2-in-1 pet backpack and travel carrier

This TSA-approved pet carrier doubles as a backpack. The carrier features breathable mesh walls, four self-locking zippers and a built-in safety leash so that you can feel confident that your furry friend is secure. 

The two-in-one carrier can attach to your luggage, be worn as a backpack or carried with standard pet carrier handles. It's suitable for dogs or cats up to 15 pounds.

Why we like the Lesure 2-in-1 pet backpack and travel carrier:

• It easily converts from a standard pet carrier to a backpack.
• The carrier is TSA-approved and airline-compliant.
• It comes in three colors.

What's better, polycarbonate hardshell or soft-sided luggage?

What's better,  a polycarbonate hardshell suitcase  or a  soft-sided piece of luggage ? While it all comes down to preference, suitcases made out of polycarbonate are generally more lightweight. As for the most durable suitcase material, aluminum tends to last the longest. It also happens to look quite chic, and manufacturers know it, so it often costs the most. Nylon, leather and other textiles are common for  other types of carry-ons , including garment bags, weekenders,  pet carriers  and duffel bags. If you like to travel light or visit a lot of places during a single vacation, a grab-and-go textile bag may make the most sense.

Some of the top luggage brands for 2024 include Rimowa,  Away , Samsonite,  Monos , July, TravelPro,  Paravel  and more. But don't worry if you're on a budget. We've included other wallet-friendly options for those more comfortable with a lower price point.  As for the best time to buy luggage, there's good news. Unlike say, large appliances, which tend to have a set sales season, most major luggage brands run promos all year long, and  Amazon  regularly marks down popular pieces.

Checked luggage or carry-on?

When shopping for luggage, first consider your needs -- and let's be honest, your taste. If you are a  business traveler , you probably need a  well equipped carry-on  with compartments for laptop and travel documents. If you're a frequent flyer, you should also think about investing in a full set for business travelers. Buy wisely, and your new luggage just might pay for itself. We've included some of the top rated luggage sets for business and  family travelers . 

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14 best weekender bags for every type of traveler in 2024

Between balancing a full-time job and family duties, a quick weekend getaway is usually easier to pencil into a busy schedule than a long vacation. Embarking on short trips throughout the year is a great way to take a break from the monotony of your daily routine, but how effectively you pack may determine just how stress-free your trip is. A weekender bag, which includes zippered duffels, travel backpacks and large multi-compartment bags , can easily keep your travel essentials in one place.

To help you choose the best one for your getaway, we asked travel experts how they shop for weekender bags and rounded up some of their favorite options along with NBC Select staff picks.

SKIP AHEAD Best weekender bags of 2023 | What is a weekender bag and what is it used for? | How to shop for a weekender bag

Selected. Our top picks

Best weekender bags of 2024

We compiled expert-recommended options and NBC Select staff favorites to help you decide on the best weekender bags for your personal travel preferences.

Best weekender bag overall: Lo & Sons

Lo & sons the catalina deluxe.

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

The Catalina Deluxe from Lo & Sons is a frontrunner for durability, space and style. I frequently take quick weekend trips to visit family, and I can always rely on this weekender to store everything I need. It fits comfortably underneath my seat on flights or train rides, and I love that it has a separate, zippered bottom compartment to help keep my shoes and dirty clothes isolated from the rest of my packed items. It comes in various sizes, colors and fabrics, including soft and sturdy canvas, and water-resistant and eco-friendly recycled polyester. It also includes an adjustable messenger strap with removable padding, as well as a backend pass-through sleeve so it can fit comfortably on top of a suitcase.

Capacity : 40 liters (small); 49 liters (large) | Material : Canvas; 600D recycled polyester | Water-resistant : Yes (recycled polyester) | Laptop compartment : No

Best multi-purpose weekender bag: Halfday

Halfday the garment duffel.

This duffel comes recommended by NBC Select’s associate updates editor Zoe Malin and editor James Ellis due to its durability and size. “I like that it's small enough to not make a fuss on the plane, but I can still pack at least one suit if I wanted,” Ellis says. It weighs a little over 2 pounds and has a water-resistant exterior that’s designed to withstand unpredictable weather. The duffel comes with two interior shoe pockets that fit a size-13 shoe in each, and it converts into a hanging garment compartment that holds a suit, tux or multiple dress shirts, according to the brand.

Capacity : 45 liters | Material : Oxford; Taslan polyester lining | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best weekender bag with removable compartment: Beis

Beis the convertible weekender.

“This bag changed my life — it’s the only weekender I can truly rely on for trips, and it sparks joy when I use it,” Malin says. She loves that it comes with a bottom compartment to keep shoes separate: “I always travel with my running sneakers, and having that dedicated compartment for them keeps their dirty soles away from my clean clothes.” The compartment is also removable if you’re a light packer, so you can convert it to a minimalist tote. Malin also likes the many interior pockets that can help safely store away her phone, wallet, passport and other essentials while traveling, as well as the removable padded laptop sleeve to save time while going through TSA. The brand also offers a mini version , which is small enough to use as a purse or work tote when you remove the bottom compartment.

Capacity : 49 liters | Material : Polyester; vegan leather trim | Water-resistant : Yes (lining) | Laptop compartment : Yes

Best affordable weekender bag: Adidas

Adidas defender 4 medium duffel bag.

In addition to the Lo & Sons option, my partner and I use this affordable duffel from Adidas for quick overnight stays or to haul exercise clothes and fitness equipment to the gym. It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of higher-end bags, just a spacious, zip-top interior with two zippered side pockets that allow me to keep track of (and store away) smaller items like earbuds , wallets and keys. It also has a removable shoulder strap, so you can use it as both a true duffel with handles or a crossbody bag to haul heavier items.

Capacity : N/A (Dimensions: 13 inches long, 12 inches high, 24.75 inches wide) | Material : Polyester | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best high-end weekender bag: ShortyLove

Shortylove friday weekender travel bag.

Editorial director Lauren Swanson owns this weekender in Army Green and says that “it's surprisingly spacious and lightweight.” Weighing just under 2 pounds, the bag is made from water-resistant nylon twill and has a flat, structured bottom that lets it stand upright when placed on the floor. It also has internal padding so it maintains its structure when it’s not in use, according to the brand. It comes with multiple interior slip pockets to hold your phone, keys and wallet, as well as a deep, zippered exterior pocket.

Capacity : 60 liters | Material : Nylon twill | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best convertible weekender bag: Baboon to the Moon

​​baboon to the moon go-bag.

If you can’t decide between a traditional weekender bag and a travel backpack, Baboon to the Moon’s water-resistant Go-Bag solves that issue — it has a handle so you can use it as a duffel, and adjustable shoulder straps to easily convert it into a backpack. It’s also a favorite of former NBC Page Mihkaila Archer: “I’ve been telling everyone I possibly can about Baboon to the Moon — it's not super traditional luggage, but I love its wide array of unique colors and bag sizes for any type of trip.”

Capacity : 32 liters, 40 liters and 60 liters | Material : Proprietary OM Stardust Ballistic shell | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best sustainable weekender bag: Everlane

Everlane the renew transit weekender.

If you’re looking for an environmentally-friendly bag that’s both durable and water-resistant, Everlane’s ReNew Transit Weekender, which is highly rated with a 4.7-star average rating from over 100 reviews on the brand’s website, is made from 100% recycled polyester that comes from renewed plastic bottles. It includes an adjustable shoulder strap, a padded interior laptop sleeve, two water bottle holders and a zip pocket on the outside. It’s available in five colors, too.

Capacity : 25 liters | Material : Recycled polyester | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : Yes

Best carry-on weekender bag: Calpak

Calpak stevyn duffel.

This duffel bag from Calpak, which is one of our favorite AAPI-owned businesses , is great for weekend getaways, trips to the gym or last-minute flights. It comes with a large bottom compartment for shoes or any clothes you want to keep separated, as well as interior pockets to keep smaller items like your wallet, cards and keys, organized. It has a trolley sleeve on the back side to securely attach it to your luggage, plus you can remove the shoulder strap to carry it from its handles too.

Capacity : 47 liters | Material : Polyester | Water-resistant : No | Laptop compartment : No

Best expandable weekender bag: Longchamp

Longchamp le pliage expandable travel bag.

A favorite of former NBC Select writer Barbara Booth for its size, versatility and sleek design, the Longchamp Le Pliage has a zipper in the middle that allows the water-resistant bag to expand in size, so she can use it for travel or at the beach or pool. For extra portability, the Le Pliage bag folds down flat and fastens with a buttoned flap, so you can easily store it in your suitcase when you travel. Additionally, it has a spacious main interior, a removable crossbody strap and plenty of interior pockets.

Capacity : 30 liters; 50 liters (when expanded) | Material : Nylon; leather trim | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : No

Best weekender tote: L.L.Bean

L.l.bean boat and tote zip-top.

If you prefer a one-shoulder tote bag to store your weekend trip essentials, this option from L.L.Bean comes in small, medium, large and extra-large sizes. Made from heavy-duty cotton canvas, the tote has a reinforced bottom and double-stitched seams, which makes it suitable to carry heavier items like shoes, laptops and other travel accessories (in fact, the handles are sturdy enough to hold up to 500 pounds, according to the brand). NBC Select editor Lindsay Schneider recommends this zip-top option for traveling thanks to its long durable handles and sturdy structure.

Capacity : 8 liters, 17 liters, 35 liters and 56 liters | Material : Cotton canvas | Water-resistant : No | Laptop compartment : No

Best backpack weekender: Osprey

Osprey arcane xl 22l daypack.

The Osprey Arcane XL Daypack comes recommended by Juliff. “At 30 liters, it’s the perfect size for a couple of nights away, and because it’s a backpack rather than a duffel, it’s easy and comfortable to carry when walking,” she says. It has a laptop compartment that fits a 15-inch laptop, and the external zip pocket is great for keeping small essentials like a passport, credit cards and phone within easy reach. Osprey also offers an “all mighty guarantee,” which means the brand will repair or replace any of its luggage if it gets damaged, for any reason, free of charge. “I’ve successfully taken them up on this offer in the past and had a seven-year-old backpack replaced after an airline tore a hole in it,” Juliff says.

Capacity : 30 liters | Material : 500D recycled polyester | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : Yes

Best lightweight weekender bag: Dagne Dover

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

Select’s managing editor Leah Ginsberg says she’s “a devotee” of the Landon Carryall Bag from Dagne Dover. It’s made from 100% premium neoprene, a lightweight, water-resistant fabric that’s insulating, shock-absorbent and flexible, according to the brand. “It has so many useful pockets and it's lightweight because of the material,” says Ginsberg, who has the small version of this bag and typically uses it as a purse. “I also always get compliments because it looks cool.”

Capacity : 5 liters, 11 liters, 18 liters, 29 liters, 35 liters | Material : Neoprene | Water-resistant : Yes | Laptop compartment : Yes (medium, large and extra-large sizes)

Best overnight weekender bag: Vera Bradley

Vera bradley large travel duffel.

If you’re planning on embarking on an overnight trip, Vera Bradley’s 100% cotton duffle bag has a zip pocket and three slip pockets on the exterior, as well as three additional interior mesh pockets to keep smaller items organized. You can use it as a true duffel bag using its drop handles, or use the detachable shoulder strap to haul heavier items. (It comes with a shoulder pad to make it more comfortable, too.) The spacious, soft weekender is high quality and lasts for years, according to Schneider.

Capacity : 50 liters | Material : Recycled cotton | Water-resistant : No | Laptop compartment : No

Best personalizable weekender bag: Paravel

Paravel weekender.

“The Paravel Weekender is perfect for true weekend getaways — its stylish design and high-quality construction make it a standout choice,” says Nadine Sykora, blogger and host of YouTube travel channel Hey Nadine . The weekender fits up to two days-worth of clothes and a 15-inch laptop (though it doesn’t have a dedicated laptop sleeve), according to the brand. It also comes with a removable and adjustable strap, an interior zip pocket and zip-top closure that makes it easy to unload and reload your essentials. For an additional fee, you can personalize the bag with an embroidered or hand-painted monogram or emoji.

Capacity : 28 liters | Material : Eco-friendly canvas and recycled vegan leather | Water-resistant : No | Laptop compartment : No

select When picking a luggage tag, pay attention to material and coverage

How we picked the best weekender bags.

A weekender bag is designed for short trips, typically taking place over a few days or a weekend. Depending on their overall dimensions, you might want to use them as a carry-on or personal item for a flight. When shopping for a quality weekender bag, experts told us to consider the following factors:

• Size : Stick to bags with a capacity of at least 30 liters so they can comfortably fit your travel essentials, according to experts we spoke to. Bags that hold upwards of 40-50 liters may hold more, but keep in mind they’ll be harder to lug around.
• Material : Weekenders come in many different materials including canvas, recycled polyester, nylon and leather. Water-resistant materials like nylon and neoprene are best since they provide some peace of mind when traveling outdoors, according to our experts.
• Straps, comfort and versatility : Look for bags with strong, padded straps that aren’t going to give way when you’re carrying a heavier load. Some options transform into travel backpacks or crossbody bags, which makes it easier to carry heavier items.
• Price : You can expect to spend between $100 to $300 on a quality weekender bag. However, “beyond that point, you’ll be paying a premium for brand recognition or aesthetic features rather than significant improvements in durability or functionality,” says travel blogger Lauren Juliff .
• Organizational features : Consider bags with interior pockets that will keep small items in one place and exterior pockets to keep essentials like your phone and passport in-reach. You should also look for a built-in laptop sleeve or compartment to keep your tech safe and scratch-free.

What is a weekender bag and what is it used for?

Sized in between a backpack and a carry-on suitcase , a weekender is big enough to hold clothes, toiletries, shoes and other essentials. Many tend to have soft sides, zippers and multiple compartments that give you the convenience and accessibility of a backpack with the capacity of a smaller suitcase sans the bulkiness.

“For getaways lasting a night or two, the main advantage of a weekender bag is the ease at which you can pack and unpack,” Juliff says. “You don’t have to squeeze everything through the narrow entrance of a backpack when packing, and when unpacking, it’s far easier to see where everything is in a duffel.”

Practicality aside, weekender bags are a stylish alternative to basic luggage. They come in a variety of colors and materials, including nylon, faux leather, canvas and polyester. Some weekenders can even “fold flat after unpacking, so you can store them out of sight,” Juliff says. Some also sport customizable features like monograms and patterns to fit your personal style.

“I'm definitely somebody who has weekenders that go from a traditional soft duffel in a leather to a canvas duffel to larger totes that stand up on their own,” says Yolanda Edwards, founder of travel magazine Yolo Journal . She says she uses weekender bags for short trips to her house in upstate New York, but she also takes them along on planes as a personal item and in cars during road trips.

How to shop for a weekender bag

Not all weekender bags serve the same function: Your specific needs and type of travel will determine the right bag for you.

“The first thing you want to do is determine what your weekend will look like,” Sykora says. “If you're a minimalist and prefer packing light, a weekender bag can certainly work for longer trips — just make sure it's comfortable to carry, as most weekender bags aren't designed for extended periods of use.”

When shopping, our experts recommended considering the size and material of your weekender, your comfort level while using one and built-in organizational features like pockets and laptop sleeves.

The right size weekender

The size of your weekender will determine what you can (and can’t) take. Some bags are more compact, so you can easily carry it around, while roomier, pocket-filled options offer more space for storing your travel essentials.

Juliff recommends a minimum capacity of 30 liters for a weekender bag. “This should be sufficient to carry clothing, toiletries and other essentials for a short trip,” she says. Plus, “30 liters is typically well within most airlines' carry-on luggage requirements, allowing you to easily stow your bag under the seat when traveling internationally.”

If you’re an experienced traveler, a larger weekender bag may still work well for longer trips. “I traveled continuously for two years with a single 40-liter backpack and didn’t feel as though the amount of space was limiting — anything less than 40 liters and I would have struggled, though,” Juliff says. And though a smaller option may not hold all of your essentials, opting for a bigger weekender can still be limiting: “Typically, weekenders aren’t rolling bags, so you’ll need to physically carry them around,” which can result in some serious heavy lifting if you’re a chronic overpacker, according Sykora. “For most people, I would recommend a 50-liter or 60-liter suitcase or backpack for trips lasting longer than a week,” Juliff says.

Comfort and versatility

“Consider your destination, travel distance and transportation methods — like car versus public transportation — when determining the size and comfort [of your bag],” Sykora says. Padded, removable and adjustable straps are important when it comes to comfort, especially if the bag functions as both a duffel and a backpack. If you’re planning a walking-heavy trip , some weekenders can transform into crossbody bags or travel backpacks that won’t put too much pressure on one shoulder. Carrying a weekender bag with a shoulder strap isn’t ideal for long-haul trips, according to Sykora.

select A quality travel pillow makes a difference. Here's why.

While different materials will determine how your weekender bag looks, you’ll want to avoid materials that won’t hold up in certain travel conditions. If you're an outdoorsman or if you expect unpredictable weather, “you should not be getting a zippered duffel that's [made of] canvas — which is usually heavier — or any with leather details,” Edwards says. She suggested opting for a lightweight, water-resistant nylon, instead.

“Water-resistance for both the fabric and the zippers is a valuable feature if you plan on traveling in all seasons, and will keep your belongings dry in anything that isn’t a torrential downpour,” Juliff says.

Organizational features

While most weekender bags have an open, spacious interior with a few pockets to store miscellaneous items, some offer more functional compartments like laptop sleeves, separate shoe compartments and easily accessible slots for a phone, e-reader or other essentials that you need to keep in reach.

You can expect to spend anywhere between $100 to $300 for a quality weekender bag, depending on materials, brand and design, according to Juliff. “There is a noticeable difference between a $50 bag and a $400 bag in terms of quality and materials, you can both see and feel it,” Sykora says.

Higher-end bags usually come with more durable straps that can withstand wear and tear, and they may utilize premium materials such as full-grain leather or high-quality canvas, according to our experts. Bags priced on the lower-end (typically less than $100) might use more affordable materials like polyester or lower-grade leather, Juliff says. If you don’t travel often, “a more affordable option may suffice, but I always like investing in a long-lasting bag that’ll last me many years,” Sykora says.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Lauren Juliff is a travel blogger who runs the site Never Ending Footsteps .
• Nadine Sykora is a blogger and host of YouTube travel channel Hey Nadine .
• Yolanda Edwards is the founder of travel magazine Yolo Journal .

Why trust NBC Select?

Mili Godio is an editor at Select and has written various travel roundups including the best travel pillows and the best carry-ons . For this article, she interviewed three travel bloggers and writers about how to shop for weekender bags and researched dozens of weekenders on the market to compile a list of the best ones to consider.

Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

Mili Godio is an updates editor for Select on NBC News.

The Best Anti-Theft Bags To Carry While Traveling, According To Reviewers

Shopping Writer at HuffPost

In addition to your luggage and garment bags , you should consider investing in an anti-theft bag to tote on your next trip .

With the help of special security features such as lockable zippers, anti-slash fabrics, hidden pockets and RFID-blocking technology, these bags can help protect your most valuable belongings, such as your wallet , tablet and laptop .

And depending on their size, they can even be used as your personal item or carry-on bag . Below, you’ll find the eight best anti-theft bags, according to reviewers who use them while traveling.

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

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Accessories

Going on vacation these are the best travel essentials for apple devices.

It’s vacation season, and whether you’re heading out of town for some much-needed rest, or just traveling for work as usual, the accessories you travel with can make a world of difference.

Here are the best travel essentials for Apple devices.

Connect to plane’s TV with AirPods or other Bluetooth headphones

For as wonderful as Bluetooth headphones can be, the one place they can disappoint is when you want to watch something on an airplane. In-flight TVs typically require using a standard 3.5mm headphone jack to connect.

That’s where the AirFly SE audio transmitter comes in. AirFly plugs into a standard headphone jack and creates a wireless signal that enables your AirPods or other Bluetooth headphones to connect to the TV. It feels a bit like magic.

Keep your battery charged on the go

Apple no longer makes its iPhone MagSafe Battery, but there’s a much more affordable alternative anyways. Anker’s MagSafe portable iPhone charger attaches magnetically to your iPhone to provide charge on the go. It comes in a variety of great colors, and can be recharged using USB-C.

If you need a lot more charging juice, this portable power bank packs a whopping 26800mah of capacity. It’s a lot of power that can charge a variety of devices, while still being TSA-safe for taking on the plane with you.

Finally, if you’re looking for a convenient Apple Watch charging solution, this keychain Watch charger is the way to go. Snap it on your keychain and charge up as needed throughout the day, then recharge it via USB-C.

Reduce packing clutter

My favorite 3-in-1 charger for my iPhone, Watch, and AirPods just happens to be perfect for travel, too. Rather than dealing with a lot of different charging bricks and cables, this 3-in-1 solution uses a single cable and brick, and can be easily collapsed for taking up minimal space in your bag.

• Hands-on: I finally found the 3-in-1 iPhone charger I’ve been looking for

Another great way to upgrade your packing game, while better protecting your Mac or iPad, is to use a sleeve. I recommend this sleeve for Mac or this one for iPad . It keeps your bag organized, your device safe, and can be taken out for on-the-go outings.

Block out airplane noise

There is no shortage of solid noise-canceling headphones out there. I’m partial to the AirPods Pro 2 , but over-ears will better physically isolate external sounds. You can’t go wrong with any of the following options, ranked from least to most pricey:

• Bose QuietComfort
• AirPods Max

Don’t let your bags get lost

It may go without saying, but a list of travel essentials would be incomplete without the AirTag. Throw one in every bag, on your keys, on any valuable item you’re bringing with you—that way, if something happens you’re not out of luck. You can get a discounted 4-pack or just buy one .

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Ryan got his start in journalism as an Editor at MacStories, where he worked for four years covering Apple news, writing app reviews, and more. For two years he co-hosted the Adapt podcast on Relay FM, which focused entirely on the iPad. As a result, it should come as no surprise that his favorite Apple device is the iPad Pro.

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I'm a Frequent Flier, and These 15 Genius Items Have Helped Me Outsmart Checked Bag Fees — From Just $10

Perfect the carry-on-only lifestyle with these game-changing gear and accessory picks.

Alesandra Dubin is an LA-based lifestyle writer and editor. As a veteran digital journalist, she's covered travel, food, parenting, and more for over 15 years. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, and countless other online and print outlets. An avid traveler, she often trots the globe with her husband and their twins. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter at @alicedubin. Alesandra holds a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley.

Travel + Leisure / Francesca Fasciglione

I’m a professional travel writer and devoted carry-on-only packer . I hardly have to explain why: It’s widely known that checked baggage fees can be exorbitantly expensive (and are on the rise ) — sometimes even rivaling the price of an a la carte seat. Beyond that, when you check your bag, you send it out into the unknown, where it can be marooned in some far-away city ( which actually happened to me ), subjected to theft, or altogether lost. Plus, I just like to have all my stuff with me at all times, should I need anything in a pinch (and I like using my carry-on as a perch that rolls my personal item bag through endless stretches of the airport so I don’t have to bear the weight).

Over years of experience and many thousands of miles, I’ve amassed a solid system of tools to help make my carry-on-only travel life happen. And there are a few more I’m eyeing to complete my inventory. The good news: All of my top carry-on essentials picks are available at Amazon, and most are on sale now, with a starting price point of just $10 . Here are the best carry-on luggage, backpacks, duffel bags, and other important packing travel accessories to lighten your load and help you skip those baggage fees.

Rockland London Hardside 20-inch Carry-on Spinner

Before we get into the travel accessories, let's make sure that your carry-on luggage is up to snuff. I’m not the only one in my family who goes carry-on-only: I expect my kids to do the same so we don’t end up paying those extra fees or waiting at the carousel (remember: a traveling family is only as streamlined at the airport as its weakest link). So I got these 20-inch spinners for my twins three years ago; they’ve traveled all around the world with us, and are still holding up great. These have four multidirectional spinner wheels, a telescoping handle with a push button, and interior mesh and zipper pockets. At six years old, my kids were big enough to handle a 20-inch spinner, and these are so much more practical and enduring than the juvenile character-shaped options.

Etronik Weekender Bag

If you're a fan of the Béis Weekender Bag like I am, then you'll love this version from Amazon-loved brand Etronik (which has a price point that's a fraction of what I paid for my Béis one — even in the brand’s warehouse sale). I like that it has a fully separate PVC-lined and vented compartment on the bottom for shoes or dirty clothes, plus it can be used as your sole luggage or an extra roomy personal item bag that you store under the plane seat. It also has a USB interface for easy phone charging on the go. This one is available in 28 colors (I have the pale pink version), and (unlike my Béis bag) it also comes with an extra matching pouch that can be used for toiletries or safeguarding your in-flight essentials. 

Matein Travel Laptop Backpack

Having noticed the impressive volume of five-star reviews from Amazon shoppers (nearly 80,500 and counting!), the Matein backpack seemed like a no-brainer purchase for my husband to use as a carry-on and personal item bag on international trips  — and he’s still traveling the world with it years later. This bag is all about thoughtful organization, with a separate laptop compartment, a hidden anti-theft pocket on the back, and a front compartment that's organized with pen pockets, a key fob hook, and more dedicated spaces. The back padding is thick, and the adjustable shoulder straps are sturdy and comfy. There’s also a built-in USB charger for staying charged up on the go. 

Wrangler Smart Carry-on Luggage With Cup Holder

To be a carry-on-only traveler, you have to get used to always having a piece of luggage with you at the airport. And that means coming up with successful strategies for making the most efficient use of the only two hands I have. That’s why I love that this carry-on roller bag has its own built-in cup holder for that must-have airport coffee. It also has a USB port and phone holder, creating a trifecta of useful features that make carry-on-only travel seamless and convenient. Plus, it boasts an expandable capacity and smooth-rolling multidirectional wheels.

Hanples Travel Backpack

The cool thing about this backpack is it opens all the way — like a suitcase — so you can get the benefits of traveling with a roller bag while reducing the risk you might have to check it if the overhead bins fill up. Even better news: It fits under the seat as a personal item, and weighs just 2.5 pounds. This bag also has a thick cushioned laptop compartment and an expandable design that gives you 5 liters of additional packing space, and there’s a port for a charging cable or headphones.

Coolife 3-piece Luggage Set

If you’re new to carry-on-only travel — or just want to overhaul all of your gear at once — I love this budget-friendly luggage set that covers all of the bases needed to keep you from checking a bag. It comes with a 20-inch spinner bag, a backpack, and a toiletry bag, all nicely matching (I think the white version with camel piping is super chic). The luggage features a TSA-approved lock and a fully lined interior divider for organization. And, the backpack has a sleeve that fits right over the trolly handle for seamlessly rolling through the airport. 

Lovevook Weekender Bag With Accessories

I like this structured weekender bag with a 30-liter capacity to use as a complement to a roller bag (or carried alone for a short trip); it has a sleeve that slides over a suitcase handle for hands-free bliss, and the main body is made with waterproof canvas with the bottom is enhanced with PU leather for added water resistance. It has a sturdy design with its shaping ribs and metal feet at the base for standing freely, which comes in handy when you're packing or trying to find something inside mid-flight. What's more, the main compartment features a wet pocket as well as useful tech sleeves, and the outside ones have zipper closures for essentials. 

Veken Packing Cube Set

Now that you have a quality carry-on bag, you'll need to stock up on important travel accessories. Organization is the key to carry-on-only packing, and packing cubes are a huge help in that effort. This affordable and highly reviewed set comes with eight unique pieces, including a shoe bag, a laundry bag, and a cosmetic bag in addition to the zippered, all-purpose cubes in various sizes. Mesh panels make it easy to see what’s inside each pouch at a glance so you only have to open the one you need.

Fyy Travel Cable Organizer

My tech essentials always stay with me under my seat because I’m typically using both my laptop and my phone in flight (I even keep my Apple Watch charger with me to keep the battery full for the following day on overnight flights). I had a fancy, gimmicky tech organizer before this one, but it was too fussy to be useful — so I bought myself this simple, practical, and compact case at an impulse-buy price to replace it. It does the trick perfectly with its spacious and see-through mesh panels, smooth zippers, and forgiving expandability for tech over-packers (guilty). 

Amasuki Multifunction USB Charger

Speaking of overpacking tech cables, there’s a better way to travel with everything I need without jumbled cords taking up precious luggage space: This multifunction cable supports simultaneous charging of three devices, and eliminates the need for fussing with multiple charging cubes — especially in a confined situation like an airplane seat with limited ports. Mix and match as needed to charge your iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and other devices without packing unnecessary extra bulk so you can stay streamlined in a carry-on-only situation.

Cadence Capsules

If you follow my coverage, you already know I swear by these game-changing capsules that keep all of my toiletries secure and organized — and in the most aesthetic, streamlined way possible. The set comes with individual magnetic cases that attach in a honeycomb pattern to the others, each clearly labeled with its contents. You can keep all your TSA-approved liquids in your carry-on without any risk of leaking (freeing up serious space in your toiletry bag for other essentials). I use mine not just for toiletries but for other essentials I want to keep with me, including delicate jewelry and medications. 

Amazon is stocked with other travel-friendly sets to safely transport your toiletries — like the leak-proof Bpluma Travel Bottles that are just $10 and perfect for shampoo, conditioner, and more. If you're looking for something more stackable and versatile like my favorite Cadence capsules, opt for the Cosywell Small Travel Containers . 

Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Case

My husband and I both have one of these toiletry cases, which have a smart feature: a hook, so you can hang it in a small space like, say, an airplane lavatory to get freshened up on the go without your stuff rolling everywhere. Its transparent pouches allow you to see contents inside at a glance, and tons of zippers keep everything organized and any potential leaks well contained.

Hibag Compression Bags Set

This set of 12 compression bags is handy when you’re going carry-on-only and need to make every square inch of suitcase real estate count. They have the space-saving effect of vacuum sealing (though you don’t need an actual vacuum to draw the air out) with the promise of freeing up to 80 percent of luggage room. I’ve yet to try this strategy myself, but I’m intrigued — and inspired to give it a shot based on the more than 36,000 five-star Amazon ratings.

Ododos Belt Bag

When I’m only traveling with a carry-on, I have my hands full. And that means that I need to have my most essential items — like my passport, phone, and credit card — easily accessible lest I keep any airport lines from bottlenecking. That’s why I often travel with a nifty belt bag , which I usually wear across my chest so I can keep my eyes on it and away from would-be pickpockets (note: it also works as a waist or shoulder bag). This one is durable, water-resistant, and so affordable. And it comes in more than 40 colors to match any travel wardrobe style. 

Amazon Basics Packable Duffel Bag

Even when I’m packing super compactly for carry-on-only travel, I accept the possibility that I might come home with more than I left with — whether that’s travel souvenirs or bulky materials from a work trip. This 100 percent nylon bag folds flat, packs down small, and weighs nearly nothing (though it has a 50-pound capacity to bring back any overflow items). Packing one of these means always having options — and “options” is my favorite packing strategy in one word.

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Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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