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The perfect carry-on bag isn't just about fitting your essentials without going over airline size restrictions — it's about helping you travel as stress-free and efficiently as possible.
Our team is well-versed in the world of travel, having tested 50 carry-on bags and accumulated decades of personal travel experience. To evaluate our current lineup, we took these bags on trips worldwide, traveling by plane, bus, and train. We weighed them, tumbled them down concrete steps, and doused them with hose water.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite has been our top recommendation for years. It combines an ideal level of organization and impressive capacity with thoughtful features and a classy design. A few members of our testing team have been globetrotting for years with this bag, and it still looks as good as the day we bought it.
If you prefer a hardshell, the Away Carry-On is an excellent option that performs well above its price tag. If you don't travel often, the SwissGear Sion is a budget-friendly softshell that has impressive capacity, good organizational features, and rolls smoothly.
Editor's Note: We updated this review on November 11, 2025, after retesting the newest versions of two of our favorite bags, as well as testing two new carry-ons from Monos and Gregory.
Our review team's favorite carry-on for many years running is the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21". We've tested several versions over the last decade and the Travelpro's quality has endured. “When I place the most recent model I tested next to previous versions that have gone through a few years of heavy travel, they look nearly identical,” said lead tester Jason Wanlass. This class-leading bag shines with chrome-plated zipper pulls, leather handles, premium zippers, and a dense ballistic nylon exterior that can handle some of the worst turbulence travel can throw at you. However, this bag's greatest feature is its self-correcting wheels, which use magnets to quickly align all four rollers, keeping the bag in line by your side. It also includes a removable TSA-compliant wet case for liquids, a discreet power bank pocket with an external USB port, and a folding garment bag that does an exceptional job at protecting dress clothes and keeping them wrinkle-free.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (Measured)
8.1 lbs
Exterior Dimensions
21" x 14.5" x 9"
Non-Expanded Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
40.0 L
Opening Style
Top lid
Number of Exterior Pockets
4
All the features and extras we love make for a slightly heavier bag. That, and the elevated price tag of the Platinum Elite were the only negatives we found in this bag. We calculated a 40-liter volume for the main compartment, but there's also an expandable feature if you need more space. “I really like that the Travelpro's expanding area flares out at the bottom. This goes a long way toward keeping the bag steady and balanced when standing upright,” said one of our testers. If you're interested in a larger size bag as well, Travelpro sells a carry-on and checked bag set, that includes a 25" medium checked bag paired with the 21" carry-on. For a step up in quality and design, we suggest looking at the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Spinner.
The Samsonite Freeform Spinner offers the perfect mix of quality and price, making it our favorite cost-effective hardshell. We've rolled this bag onto several airplanes during the last few years, and it has proven reliable enough to be a solid option if you only travel a handful of times per year. It features a stylish polypropylene shell that is pliable, allowing it to withstand most bumps and bruises of travel. This bag is lightweight (6.6 pounds) and we calculated its interior at 41.2 liters, which is plenty for a long weekend, or even a full week if you pack light. “This carry-on offers everything I'm looking for,” said one of our testers. “I like to travel simply, and this bag gives me the basics at a great price.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (Measured)
6.6 lbs
Exterior Dimensions
23.0" x 15.0" x 10"
Non-Expanded Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
41.2 L
Opening Style
Clamshell
Number of Exterior Pockets
None
Polypropylene is a softer material, and isn't as tough as polycarbonate, so we're less confident that the Freeform Spinner will hold out during years of heavy use, but for basic travel, it certainly has enough brawn. “I was only skeptical of its trolley handle. It's a little thin and wobbly,” said our lead tester. This bag isn't perfect, but it definitely can hold its own with any bargain hardshell on the market. In fact, we feel it's better than most. If you'd rather spend a little more money, you can't go wrong with the Away The Carry-On, which we have used for years and can attest to its long-term performance. We absolutely loved the features and performance of the Gregory Quadro Pro 22", which also has a better durability rating.
After over a year of testing the Away The Carry-On, we've found it to be one of the better carry-ons you can buy, and by far, a great value for a hardsided bag. We've traveled with our Away to as far away as Nepal and Tibet, leaving us confident that it's built for extensive travel. We see this bag everywhere and understand why it appeals to a wide range of travelers. Its polycarbonate shell is extra dense and super tough, with enough flex to resist cracks, and a flat finish that helps inevitable scratches and scuffs blend in better. It has an understated aesthetic that works for everyone, from beach vacationers to business travelers. On the inside, we loved its packing system. One half of this clamshell bag is fully enclosed by a zippered mesh covering, while the other side features a space-saving compression panel that cinches clothing and other items flat, and offers a large mesh pocket that we like to use for smaller clothing items, such as socks. “This bag is perfect for any kind of travel. I've traveled a lot in the last decade, and when I consider this bag's performance and quality, it has really kept up,” said our lead tester.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (Measured)
7.4 lbs
Exterior Dimensions
21.7 x 13.5" x 8.5"
Non-Expanded Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
35.5 L
Opening Style
Clamshell
Number of Exterior Pockets
None
The Away offers 36 liters of storage, which isn't the largest of the bunch, but it will carry enough for a few days. The bag features two handles, one located on top and the other on the side. Both are a little too tight for our liking, and we had trouble fitting all our fingers underneath. We also wish there were a bottom grab handle for lifting it into the overhead bin. The Away isn't expensive relative to the competition, but if you don't travel as often and would prefer to spend a little less on your bag, the Samsonite Freeform Spinner is a solid option with a simple, no-frills design that can take you where you need to go. If you want a hardshell that can also carry your laptop, you'll absolutely love the Monos Carry-On Pro. It rivals the Away in almost every test, but it loses some storage space to the laptop compartment. The Away keeps it simple, but it just works, and it is a great choice for anyone looking for a workhorse hard-sided case.
For those with a budget for premium products, look no further than the understated yet seriously luxe Briggs & Riley Baseline. Though pricey, it remains one of our favorite bags through years of testing. It has well-sized exterior pockets, a built-in suiter, and a clever two-inch expansion/compression system that's not a zipper. The ballistic nylon exterior has reinforced edging and robust, easy-glide zippers, which have proven themselves to be seriously durable. Added touches like multiple load handles, a hidden ID tag, a TSA-approved lock, and an exterior power pack pocket are features that draw in those who are looking for a carry-on that is a cut above the rest. “It's definitely a little pricey, but I love mine, especially the packing system. After two years, I'm still impressed by its durability and functionality — and wowed by its upscale look,” said our lead tester Jason Wanlass.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (Measured)
10.1 lbs
Exterior Dimensions
20" x 14" x 7.5"
Non-Expanded Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
34.5 L
Opening Style
Clamshell
Number of Exterior Pockets
3
The major drawback of this bag is the price. It's one of the most expensive options in our lineup, and while we think the quality shines through, we understand it's an investment that not many are able to make. It's also 10.1 pounds, making it the heaviest on our list; all those features add up. If you are willing to invest in your luggage, but prefer a hard-sided option, the Tumi 19 Degree offers a very different aesthetic but equally excellent functionality. If you want to size up, Briggs & Riley makes a 29" version as well. Ultimately, the Baseline is hard to beat for folks who appreciate great organization and the ability to arrive at their destination with wrinkle-free clothes.
Although slightly sportier and more casual-looking than other soft-sided carry-ons, the well-priced SwissGear Sion Expandable has a respectable 40-liter capacity, a comfortable ride, and an array of extra organizational pockets, both inside and out. It's easy to pack, zip, and roll, whether heading out for a week-long summer adventure wardrobe or road tripping to the in-laws for the holidays. “There's a laundry list of useful features on this bag that I love, but my favorites are the removable toiletry bag and useful exterior pockets,” said one of our testers.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (Measured)
7.3 lbs
Exterior Dimensions
23.0" x 14.1" x 10.0"
Non-Expanded Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
40.5 L
Opening Style
Top lid
Number of Exterior Pockets
2
At such a low price, quality inevitably suffers. The Sion is made from scuff-resistant polyester, but this bag has picked up a few minor scratches during our testing period. It also has a just-okay telescoping handle, and our tester wasn't a big fan of the wheels, saying, “They're small and very basic, and they seemed to have a tough time keeping up when I was at full walking speed.” We also don't think the zippers and polyester shell are tough enough to withstand the that can happen if you have to gate check your bag. To get a bag that will hold up to more frequent travel, you'll have to invest a bit more, and the Gregory Quadro Pro 22" is a highly durable option. But if you don't need something for years of heavy travel, the Sion really packs a punch for the once-a-year traveler.
Working off the beaten path, the Osprey Daylite Wheeled Duffel is a lightweight and agile rolling duffel-style bag with a cavernous 42-liter volume. It swallows up gear that doesn't fit easily in a rectangular case, and can be quickly adapted into a backpack to move easily across nearly any terrain. Made primarily from recycled 450-denier polyester (a downgrade from 600-denier on past models), the Daylite is one of our favorites for taking on adventures beyond the confines of city limits, where oddly shaped gear and hand-carrying baggage are musts. It has a large central storage compartment with hardy interior compression straps to secure oddly shaped gear. Three convenient exterior compartments do a great job of securing documents or phones. Across most surfaces, it rolls smoothly on oversized 3.25-inch wheels. “I crammed this bag full — it swallows everything from ski boots to climbing helmets, with room left over for a few days of clothes,” said one of our adventure travel experts.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (Measured)
5.2 lbs
Exterior Dimensions
22.0" x 13.0" x 9.0"
Non-Expanded Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
42.2 L
Opening Style
Top lid
Number of Exterior Pockets
2
The Daylight tends to become a bit unsteady when fully packed. We also think it needs a few more grab handles, and the material isn't fully waterproof. It also has only two wheels and lacks the smooth spinners of modern suitcases. If adventure travel is your thing, but you want the convenience of hardsided luggage, we also loved the solid construction of the Gregory Quadro Pro 22", which has a dry bag that can carry wet clothes and muddy shoes, and has four smooth spinner wheels. However, we fell in love with the uncomplicated design of the Osprey for less conventional travel, and the versatility of transitioning from roller to duffel to backpack can't be beat.
We really like this carry-on because of its out-of-the-box features that give it an edge over run-of-the-mill hardshell cases. The Gregory Quadro Pro 22" simply does a few things better than similarly priced carry-ons. One of its unique features is the impressive ActiveShield Compartment. Made from recycled auto glass, this removable pouch is waterproof and traps dirt and odors. It's the perfect place to zip up muddy shoes, dirty socks, or wet clothes that active travelers might accumulate. It combines nicely with the interior tie-down straps to form a compression system that holds clothes and other items securely in place. The Quadro Pro also features unique spherical wheels that roll smoothly, a built-in clip for attaching your own AirTag, forward-facing grab handles that help keep the case balanced when carried and loaded, and a tough polycarbonate shell. All this, and it offers one of the best weight-to-volume ratios we've tested. The bag only weighs 7.1 pounds and offers a cargo bay with a whopping 43.5 liters of volume.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (Measured)
7.1 lbs
Exterior Dimensions
20.0" x 14.0" x 9.5"
Non-Expanded Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
43.5 L
Opening Style
Clamshell
Number of Exterior Pockets
None
Gregory has a long history of making bags of all kinds. “As a gear reviewer, I am more familiar with Gregory's meticulously designed daypacks and backpacks,” said one of our gear testers, “It's no surprise to me that their luggage is just as thoughtfully designed, and just as rugged.” That said, the Quadro Pro 22" quickly shows cosmetic scratches and dings, especially in the light brown color we tested, and its zippers are not fully waterproof. We like the unconventional wheel design, but we will need to perform longer-term testing to see how they hold up to regular use. But wow, what a cool bag. If you want a basic yet highly dependable hard-sided case, the Away The Carry-On is the way to go. But, if you need to stick to a tighter budget, the Samsonite Freeform Spinner is a pretty decent bag as well, but far more basic.
A quick look at some of the features of the Gregory Quadro Pro 22". We love the dirty/wet compartment the most.
We geeked out over the Monos Carry-On Pro and that is the truth. Its sweetest feature is a zippered exterior compartment that keeps your laptop accessible while traveling. Hardshells rarely offer external storage capabilities, so this option makes the bag more versatile, and eliminates the need to carry an extra pack for your device, saving your back and shoulders. This additional compartment doesn't offer a ton of space, but it's big enough to carry your, laptop, documents, wallet, keys, passport, pens, cell phone, and a pack of gum. However, it doesn't have the flexible outer shell of a softshell bag, so if you overpack it, you won't be able to zip it closed. “Just a few years ago, having a hardshell with an exterior compartment was unheard of,” said one of our frequent travelers who tests for GearLab. “I love the convenience of carrying everything I need for a business trip in just one bag.” The Monos rolls well, comes with a leather name tag and three drawstring storage bags, and it offers the same compression packing system found in many higher-end carry-ons.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (Measured)
7.7 lbs
Exterior Dimensions
20.0" x 14.0" x 6.5"
Non-Expanded Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
29.8 L
Opening Style
Clamshell
Number of Exterior Pockets
1
One main drawback is that the Monos Carry-On Pro has a fairly small volume, doesn't expand, and the outer laptop pouch cuts into the available space of the main storage compartment. The result is only 29.8 liters of volume for your clothes and shoes — so you'll be forced to pack light. However, this bag is still a fresh take on the standard clamshell design. If you don't need the laptop space, the Away The Carry-On is a better all-around hardshell for the average traveler. We also like the unique look of the Tumi 19 Degree International Expandable, but you'll pay more for the luxury branding.
It's stylish, unique, and tough. We think it can handle frequent travel to just about anywhere in the world.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Compare Products
We kept our minds open, and after weeks of side-by-side testing, we examined the data to gain a solid grasp of which carry-ons were the best and why.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
How We Tested
Since 2013, we have assembled an energized crew of travel experts to poke, prod, roll, and throw our cases from every angle. We packed them to the gills to see how much they could hold and how well they handled the strain when fully loaded. We rolled them over soft carpeting and bumpy cobblestone, lifted them up and down curbs and stairs, and threw them on the ground to see how well they held up. We did the hard work to figure out which bags are best for different packing styles and which aren't worth your money. As always, we purchase all our gear at retail prices and test it side by side for a truly unbiased and comprehensive review. Learn more about how we test carry-on luggage.
We use four individual rating metrics to test carry-on luggage:
Capacity (30% of overall scoring)
Ease of Transportation (25% of score)
Construction Quality (25% of score)
Design and Functionality (20% of score)
A rolling test was conducted to measure how straight each bag would roll unassisted.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Why Trust GearLab
Our team is lucky enough to travel on a regular basis, logging serious road time and racking up portfolios of hotel points and frequent flyer miles. From treks through Sierra Nevada peaks to business meetings in the city streets of the Bay Area and cross-continental road trips across the States, our testing team is comprised of practiced packers who know how to appreciate a great piece of luggage and can recognize when a case falls short.
Our testing team is headed up by lead luggage-beater Jason Wanlass. Jason never stops adventuring to the far corners of the globe, no matter the weather. He enjoys the thrill of hiking in the world's most famous mountain ranges, which usually involves lugging boatloads of gear around in hefty gear-hauler suitcases. Mountains are his first love, but airports are a close second. Jason loves all things travel and is on the go whenever he can find the time. He has been a member of the GearLab team for several years, and tests gear for a living, so he knows a thing or two about packing his bags and what makes a good one.
Jason is joined by long-time adventure travel professional and outdoor enthusiast Myrha Colt. Myrha is a veritable expert in hitting roads unknown and a master of hauling luggage big and small into the far-off abyss, be it the depths of an airline cargo hold bound for New York, a rugged 4x4 journey into the jungles of Papua New Guinea, or the salty crew cabin of a Caribbean dive boat. Together, these road-trained powerhouses know what gear can make a great trip even better, and they are pumped to channel that knowledge into finding the best carry-on luggage available.
We're serious travelers demanding a lot from our luggage.
Analysis and Test Results
There are several key factors to consider when searching for the ideal piece of carry-on luggage. Here, we'll break down the most important ones, and let you know which bags performed best — and which fell short — to help you identify your ideal travel companion.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
When shopping for luggage, you'll face many choices spanning a wide range of prices. When deciding among rolling carry-on bags, there is a definite correlation between price and performance. Paying more for your luggage gets you smarter packing tools, better rolling performance, and higher durability. However, a few models impress us with their functionality and assets despite relatively lower price points.
For budget-conscious travelers, the affordable Samsonite Freeform Spinner delivers a strong performance for a simple yet well-designed hard-sided case, as does the SwissGear Sion among the soft-sided contenders. For a true bare-bones budget option, the Showkoo Expandable Hardside Set 20" ships as part of a three-piece set. If you fly more than once a year, we recommend you invest in a higher-quality bag. The Away The Carry-On falls in the mid-range price category, but offers exceptional, long-lasting quality that outperforms similarly priced luggage. It costs a bit more than the cases mentioned above, but it is one of the best values on the market.
The Travelpro was named our favorite overall carry-on because of how effectively it balances quality, features, and performance with price. The end result is value.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Capacity
The purpose of any piece of luggage is to carry your stuff from point A to point B, and depending on how long you'll be traveling for, your packing habits, and seasonal requirements (boots and coats take a lot of space), you'll need a different capacity. This metric assesses each bag's ability to effectively accommodate a range of possible packing lists.
Most of our lineup falls into two main types of carry-ons — hardshells and softshells. Hardshell cases are commonly made out of stiff material like polycarbonate, and open in half, like a clamshell. This means each half of the main compartment will be fully exposed upon opening, and any items left unsecured to either side may come tumbling out. To solve this, most have a zippered panel enclosure on one side and a set of compression straps on the other. Softshell cases have a durable, but more flexible fabric outer, traditionally made of ballistic nylon or polyester. They almost always employ a top flip lid that provides access to the entire main compartment, serving as a single core storage space.
The Briggs & Riley Baseline (first photo) is one of our favorite softshell cases.
The top hardshells in our lineup with the best weight-to-volume ratios are the Gregory Quadro Pro 22" (7.1 pounds, 43.5 liters), the Samsonite Freeform Spinner (6.6 pounds, 41.2 liters), and the Delsey Paris Helium Aero (8.2 pounds, 42.5 liters). Due to thick, rigid exteriors, when hardshells are full, they're full; you can't always squeeze in that one last sweater. However, all three of these bags boast very compelling capacities. The Gregory Quadro Pro 22" in particular stood out. It weighs 7.1 pounds, offers a 43.5-liter expandable main compartment, and tons of storage options, including an amazing wet (ActiveShield) compartment that can safely store muddy shoes, wet clothes, or smelly socks separate from the rest of your clothes. We absolutely love this feature.
Not only does the Gregory Quadro Pro offer a ton of space, it also can keep your clean stuff separated from your dirty items.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
One thing we liked about the Samsonite Freeform Spinner is its redesigned polypropylene case. Although the industry standard for hardshell cases is polycarbonate, polypropylene is still very sturdy; however, it's softer, more pliable, and, most importantly, it weighs less. This often results in a bag that cracks less, packs more, and is a little more accommodating (but it is more prone to scratches). Slightly below them is the aluminum Rimowa Original Cabin (9.5 pounds, 39.5 liters). The Rimowa Original offers an impressive volume through a top-notch compression system, which cinches clothing tightly, creating more available space. Conversely, one drawback of the Rimowa is that it is a heavier metal case.
Testing the Briggs & Riley's fold-up suiter compartment. It held a lot more than we initially thought it could.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Among our top-performing softshells are the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21-Inch. This bag offers an appealing array of extra compartments that can be expanded for greater capacities. It offers one of the most comprehensive packing systems in our lineup, rivaled only by the Briggs and Riley Baseline Essential Spinner. Both include a suitpacker that keeps delicate fabric wrinkle-free (ish) while in transit.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite stood out in both our “summer vacation” and our “bulky item” packing tests.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
We weighed every bag and took internal measurements to calculate its volume. We noted which bags can expand to accommodate more and which have pockets that increase overall capacity. We compared the volume-to-weight ratio of each piece of luggage and put them to use to see which ones can effectively organize your belongings, rather than forcing you into a stuff-and-stash packing method.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite proved to be one of the top competitors in terms of pure capacity. Although in terms of pure capacity, it was slightly bested by the Delsey Paris Helium Aero, Samsonite Freeform Spinner, and Gregory Quadro Pro 22". However, the Travelpro has a versatile organizational and compression system hidden beneath a streamlined exterior, making packing much easier than those with completely bare interiors. All items in our week-long summertime packing test fit without expansion, with all pockets and compression panels proving useful, and only a slight amount of extra muscle required to seal the master zipper closed.
At 5.2 pounds, the Osprey Daylite Wheeled Duffel 40 is the lightest bag on our current list, and it also boasts one of the largest volumes at 42.2 liters. The Daylite is a wheeled duffel-style bag, and its more flexible material means it can more easily accommodate a variety of payloads, including bulky or oddly shaped gear.
The Gregory carry-on has uniquely placed grab handles that some will love, and others will hate.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Ease of Transport
A key desired characteristic of any carry-on luggage is how easy it is to move. This metric covers everything from rolling ability, handle functionality, bag balance, wheel size, and ease of loading and unloading. We rolled bags over awkward terrain (like stairs and cobblestones), tugged on their telescoping handles, yanked each grab handle, lifted them above our heads to stuff them into overhead bins, and loaded them into cars.
Transporting four-wheeled spinner bags depends entirely on the quality of the wheels. Some track smoothly and quietly right alongside you as you walk, while others drag or even tip over when faced with a crack in the road or a sudden change in direction. Similarly, there are times when you'll need to manhandle bags up and down stairs or into overhead bins; this is where grab handles come in handy.
Ease of Use Scores for Carry-on Luggage
Product
Tracking Ability
Wheel Smoothness
Telescopic Handle Smoothness
Balance
Travelpro Platinum Elite
5
5
5
5
Briggs & Riley Baseline
4.5
5
5
5
Rimowa Original Cabin
4.5
5
4.5
5
Tumi 19 Degree
4
5
4.5
5
Away The Carry-On
4
3.5
3.5
4.5
Monos Carry-On Pro
4
3.5
4
4
Gregory Quadro Pro 22\"
4
3.5
3.5
4
Showkoo Hardside (Set)
4.4
3.5
3
4
Samsonite Freeform
3.5
4
3
4
Amazon Basics Hardside
3
3
3
4
Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds
3
3
3.5
3.5
Osprey Daylite Wheeled Duffel
3
3.5
4
2
SwissGear Sion Softside
2.5
2.5
3
4
Delsey Paris Helium Aero
2.5
3
3
3.5
Coolife Hardside Expandable
2.5
2.5
3
3.5
Travelpro Maxlite 5
2.5
3
3
2.5
Rockland Softside (Set)
2
1
2
1.5
The Travelpro Platinum Elite, Rimowa Original Cabin, Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential, and Tumi 19 Degree International Expandable were stand-outs for their cruising ability and user-friendliness. Each has large double wheels offering ample clearance, and they consistently rolled in a straight path, sticking to our sides wherever we went.
Just cruisin' by check-in with our smooth-rolling Rimowa. This was hands-down one of our favorite carry-ons to push around.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Despite being among some of the heaviest in our test group (and therefore more difficult to lift and carry when fully packed), these cases earned their high scores because we rarely had to manhandle them, thanks to thoughtful designs and the placement of well-made carrying handles.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite has four smooth spinners that magnetically self-align no matter which end of the bag is leading out. This allows for an impeccable glide and quick maneuvering.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Away The Carry-On, Delsey Paris Helium Aero, and SwissGear Sion Softside are three bags with very respectable scores for their ease of transport. Each has very impressive spinners and performed well in our rolling tests, and their lighter weights made them easier to handle on the odd staircase.
The Away The Carry-On rolls well on nearly every surface. It can even handle uneven cobblestone sidewalks.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Of particular note, we were also quite surprised by the budget-friendly Amazon Basics 20-Inch and Showkoo Expandable Hardside Set 20". Boasting tall and wide double-wheeled spinners, both bags roll smoothly, track decently, and can handle a variety of terrain with impressive resilience.
The Showkoo Expandable Hardside Set 20" making weight and absolutely crushing it in our tracking tests.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Osprey Daylite Wheeled Duffel is a two-wheeled roller-duffel that's not the best roller, but stands out for being easy to carry. This is the bag you want if you need to lift, pull, load, or rumble over a rocky trail. This bag's ability to transform from a carry-on to a duffel bag or backpack takes its portability to a whole new level.
The Osprey Daylite Wheeled Duffel 40 is super lightweight and adaptable, making it one of the most transportable bags of the whole lot.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Construction Quality
When spending on new luggage, most of us want to make sure our purchase lasts more than one or two flights. The best luggage can withstand the worst that any airport or hotel personnel can throw at it. Material, construction, and overall sturdiness of each carry-on piece can determine how a case might hold up when faced with average day-to-day travel activities (think opening and closing zippers and running wheels over cracks in heavy volume) or the eventualities of airline abuse.
The Rimowa Original Cabin, Briggs & Riley Baseline, and Travelpro Platinum Elite are built for a lifetime of travel, using tough, long-lasting materials that have been thoughtfully combined to look and perform gracefully under pressure. Also among this elite company are the Tumi 19 Degree International Expandable and Away The Carry-On.
Testing the toughness of the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21" Expandable Spinner.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
It's no surprise these bags are impressively durable even under extreme circumstances, with bombproof wheels, smooth-glide zippers, numerous user-friendly handles, and a significant investment in structural integrity, including reinforced edging and protective bumpers along vulnerable corners and seams. No matter how often or severe a beating we served up — be it crashing onto concrete floors, tumbling down stairs, dousing with hose water, or bouncing into obstacles — these bags simply refused to say “uncle.”
Every bag underwent the same drenching test for water repellency.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Many of our more budget-friendly cases were still able to strike a balance between acceptable ruggedness and an appealing price tag. The Samsonite Freeform, SwissGear Sion, and Amazon Basics Hardside all performed well enough to earn above-average scores for their toughness. The polypropylene material of the Samsonite is notable for its flexible, crack-resistant build. While they may not last forever, any of these cases is more than sturdy enough to handle a once-a-year flight to visit relatives, or to get you to that beach vacation you've been waiting for.
The Samsonite Freeform's polypropylene shell is sleek, pliable, and relatively tough.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
In addition to its ability to handle being pushed down a flight of stairs or dropped from four feet onto its head, the Gregory Quadro Pro 22" impressed us by its ability to fend off water. While not perfect, this bag stayed fairly dry after being dumped on by a backyard garden hose.
The Gregory stayed reasonably dry after being soaked with gallons of water.
Design and Functionality
Some of our award-winning bags can cost as much as a plane ticket. With such elevated price tags, most travelers will expect a well-rounded case that has features to handle any trip they need to pack for. We evaluated these suitcases based on several aspects of their design and functionality, considering any additional features and add-ons, plus each bag's style and appearance. We also considered each bag's zipper function, layout logic, and ability to pack a variety of unique payloads. Lastly, we compared each case against its peers to determine the best application for each (i.e., business, leisure, or adventure).
Our top performers in nearly every aspect of this metric were the Travelpro Platinum Elite and the Briggs and Riley Baseline Essential Spinner, followed very closely by the Rimowa Original Cabin. These three beauties have the best overall design and function of our entire flight crew. All three have sophisticated aesthetics and many smart extra features that keep them perched as some of the best carry-ons money can buy. Specifically, the Rimowa Original's prominent, all-aluminum, completely riveted exterior certainly places this luxurious case in a class all by itself — and a price bracket all by itself.
It kinda acts like it owns the place. The Rimowa is all-class, all the time.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential employs our favorite packing system. Its entire trolley handle assembly sits on the outside of the bag, leaving a truly flat interior surface for packing. Next, a tri-fold garment envelope is discreetly incorporated into the bag's lid, creating the perfect tool for laying out a suit or dress to minimize wrinkles during transit. Finally, instead of a traditional zipper expansion, you'll find a proprietary “one-touch” compression/expansion tool that lifts the walls of the case to provide an extra couple of inches of storage depth within. After placing your belongings, cinch down the internal compression panels over your load, then zip the bag back up. Simple pressure applied to the outer edges will then compress the entire suitcase down, and you end with a clean rectangular piece of luggage without fighting with an expansion zipper.
Briggs & Riley's ingenious one-touch compression/expansion system is placed on the inside, allowing for quick and easy deployment without the need for strained zippers.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The packing system of the Travelpro Platinum Elite is worth noting. It's deceptively large and houses plenty of organizational features to keep your belongings separate, and interior compression straps have panels of fabric (with pockets) stretched between them to secure the contents of the bag. Additional features we love include a removable toiletry bag that zips into the side and an optional garment bag for keeping your formal wear less wrinkled in transit.
The Travelpro is designed to the hilt for comfort and function. We especially loved its built-in charging station. It's also the perfect height for a foot stool.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Away Carry-On boasts understated good looks within a compact, road-ready, easy-to-maneuver hardshell. Besides its lower clearance and tendency to scratch and scuff, we couldn't find much to dislike about this carry-on. This case excels at extras, from its well-thought-out interior storage system to its included laundry bag. It also offers a distinguishable stitch trim accent and several color options, so you can stand out in the crowd at the luggage carousel if you choose.
The Away The Carry-On stands photo-ready and armed with a slew of smart features to make it a favorite among our testers.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
It is also possible to take advantage of smart organizational tools at a lower price point. We particularly appreciate the SwissGear Sion, which comes with several exterior and interior pockets, expansion options, and functional compression straps. It even includes a bonus toiletry “wet bag” for extra bragging points.
For those travelers that appreciate organizational features, many in our lineup come with useful, well-placed pockets and even removable components (like toiletry bags) for when you arrive at your destination.
One of our other favorites for this metric is the Gregory Quadro Pro 22". This bag is a showoff when it comes to catching the attention of other travelers. In particular, the Gregory is a blend of sporty outdoors and traditional luggage. This design is a trademark look for Gregory, a brand well-known for its daypacks and backpacks.
The Gregory Quadro Pro 22" is a great blend of style and function. It has clean lines, a classic look, but it also can get its hands dirty when it needs to.
Finally, we must mention the unique design feature of the Monos Carry-On Pro. It's a hardshell carry-on that acts like a softshell, in that it comes with a fold-out exterior compartment that can store your laptop or tablet, along with a few other essentials like keys, wallets, passports, or important documents. We loved having quick access to these things, and this design feature fits perfectly into the lives of business travelers, students, or anyone who needs to carry a device with them.
Our favorite feature of the Monos Carry-On Pro.
How to Choose Carry-On Luggage
Whether you're an experienced traveler or taking your first international flight, buying your next carry-on can be a daunting task. The market is flooded with more options than you can realistically look at in a reasonable amount of time, so here are a few key considerations to help guide you to the best luggage for your travel needs.
The main advantages to using a carry-on bag when flying are that the airline can't lose it because you're belongings never leave your side, and you get to skip the wait at the baggage carousel. Some airlines will include a carry-on bag in the price of your ticket, giving an economical motivator, but they are increasingly charging for this privilege. That said, the main reason not to use a carry-on is the smaller size. Carry-on bags are usually between 30- 40L and can handle enough clothes for an extended weekend trip for an overpacker or more than a week if you're a light packer. To make sure you're in the right ballpark, consider the length of the trip you most often take. If your journey is likely to cover rough ground, like cobblestones or gravel, you may consider a travel backpack, which usually falls in the same size range, and is considered a piece of carry-on luggage when flying.
A hardshell bag offers better durability and protection while traveling, and it can also provide additional protection from weather and the elements. However, hardshells are limited when it comes to compartmental storage and often lack exterior pockets where you can quickly store your passport, earbuds, or boarding pass. Additionally, hardshells don't bend or stretch to your payload, so you may have to pack more wisely. Conversely, a softshell will provide better flexibility and offer expandable compartments to increase capacity. Another benefit of a softshell is that they are often lighter than their hard-shell counterparts. Deciding between the two comes down to prioritizing your needs, whether that's increased durability or the ability to fit as much as possible.
A good compression system can make the difference between carrying your valuables safely aboard a flight and having to gate check your bag. In short, they can be very useful if you tend to overpack or buy a lot of souvenirs while traveling. Aside from this, they also help keep your clothing organized and in place when your bag is jostled around. The best ones we have used feature internal cinch straps or full panels that buckle together. Some cases utilize their expansion zippers as a makeshift compression system. This works, but we don't like it as much because it can take some muscle to pull the zipper on an overstuffed bag.
Size Restrictions
Every airline adheres to its own requirements for carry-on size, so it's important to check with the airlines you're flying before you leave for the airport. These restrictions can be on overall dimensions, packed bag weight, or both, and if you're traveling internationally, carry-on size restrictions tend to be smaller. Be cautious with expandable models, which can fit within size restrictions when compressed, but exceed restrictions when unzipped. At the end of the day, they have to fit in the overhead bin, which can be hard if the bag is stuffed too full.
Just so we're on the same page, carry-ons generally carry your essentials - especially items that you want to stay with you at all times. These bags are designed to fit in an aircraft's overhead compartment.
Conclusion
Any cursory glance around the web reveals carry-on luggage choices for days. Sifting through the long lists of seemingly identical bags to find the right suitcase for you can be challenging. Whether you prefer a separate pocket for everything or one giant cavern that can handle a pile of gear tossed in without care, there are plenty of options to choose from. We rigorously tested all of these bags side-by-side to find which cases are best for personal and professional trips, and we hope our findings help you narrow down which one is the right fit for your needs.
Lining up for a final family photo. In the end, we purchased and tested the bags we felt represented the broadest range of style, functionality, price, and appeal.
