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Searching for the best piece of carry on luggage? Since 2013, our travel experts have bought and tested 53 different models to bring you this latest lineup of 15 cases that represent the best, the most popular, and the most intriguing models on the market today. We tested each bag side-by-side, simulating the rigors of travel by plane, bus, train, or car ride and the unexpected demands of backyard getaways across bumpy country roads, bustling hotel lobbies, or chaotic city metro systems. We put some serious miles on all these little wheels, from asphalt to gravel. Our team jammed each bag full of a week's worth of gear, lobbed them into overhead bins, tossed them in trunks, and dropped them onto concrete to see what would happen. Now, after rocketing over curbs and bouncing up and down stairs, here's our take on the best carry on luggage out there, no matter your needs and budget.
Our ultimate packing list and roundups of our favorite travel bags can help you design the perfect setup for your journeys. If you need a checked bag, check out our best luggage review and our analysis of the top-rated duffel bags. If you're looking for a different way to travel by carrying your goods on your back, we've also tested the best travel backpacks and identified the best backpacks of all kinds.
Editor's Note: We updated our carry on luggage review on August 1, 2024, to remove discontinued models and to add three new bags to our lineup.
Wheels magnetically align, excellent organization, deceptively large capacity, stable and durable
Premium construction quality, all-metal exterior, very tough, heavy duty locks, smooth wheels, great packing system
Sophisticated design, innovative compression, stable and durable
Converts to a backpack, collapsible and easy to store, great craftsmanship, rugged, lightweight, large all-terrain wheels
Stylish and tough, reliable brand, great shell and zippers, large and sturdy trolley handle, tons of exterior hand grips, lots of space, large all-terrain wheels, great bumper rails, fleece-lined phone compartment, corners and maneuvers well,
Exceptionally strong shell, great smooth wheels, spring-back grab handles, stylish leather name tag and accents, sturdy, stays level, maneuvers well, built-in locator ID, pre-wired USB port
Polished, modern design, great wheels, thoughtful organizational tools, easy to lift and maneuver, very tough shell
A super versatile and functional bag that is durably built and makes travel easy
A super swanky carry-on that is equally rugged and fashionable - and let's not forget… expensive
A high-end, super durable bag with plenty of smart features and a surprising amount of space with a premium price tag to match
From airports to the outdoors, you'll have the freedom to roll, carry, or backpack your stuff to wherever, making the journey as much fun as the destination
A super trendy, name-brand bag that is more than just a pretty face — this travel trunk is the real deal, and it's ready to hop a plane to anywhere on the map
A very high-end spinner that is big on quality, rolls with grace, but is a little bare when it comes to the interior packing system
A minimalist’s dream bag with a sleek modern appearance and commendable performance across all metrics
A trendy carry-on from a leading outdoor manufacturer that effectively blends rucksack and luggage to form an eye-catching bag that will appeal to brand name lovers
A perfectly priced hardshell that doesn't sacrifice style or performance
An accessible price point and a slew of useful features make this carry-on a good option for those who want a solid performer without breaking the bank
A fashionable yet frugal spinner that has excellent bones and a rugged shell
A well-priced and reasonably spacious hardshell carry-on with limited organizational features and dubious long-term viability
A very basic four-wheel spinner that performs adequately and is great for light, occasional, domestic travel
An inexpensive roller of dubious durability but enough utility to suit light packers and infrequent travelers and plenty of colors to keep it fun
A very basic two-wheeled roller that is an option for children or for adults with very light travel agendas
Our review team's favorite piece of carry on luggage is undeniably the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21". This class-leading carry on comes with plenty of exterior pockets to keep items orderly and easily accessible, matched by several clever interior organizational tools to help maximize space and reduce wrinkled fabric or misplaced items. A detached suit/dress organizer, four interior pockets, a removable TSA-compliant toiletry case, a discreet power bank pocket with a USB port, and a hidden ID tag are among the handy extras any seasoned traveler will appreciate. However, the highly effective internal compression system (delivering a substantial increase in capacity well before external expansion is employed) is likely to excite experienced packers most.
SPECIFICATIONS
Exterior Dimensions
23.5" x 14.3" x 9.0"
Weight (Measured)
8.1 lb
Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
40 L
Exterior Material
Polycarbonate
Number of Wheels
4
This bag is designed to disappear by your side. It earned top marks in both ease of transport and design and functionality. Well-placed grab handles and adequate adjustment stops on the telescoping handle make it easy to carry, load, or roll the bag, depending on the situation. There is even a grab handle on the bottom side of the case, so you won't find yourself patting around to find an extra handhold when you need it. We especially loved the set of innovative easy-glide spinner wheels that magnetically snap into alignment to produce a consistently silent, easily controlled roll no matter what distance you have to cover. The interior of the bag offers features like a clear toiletry bag and garment bag that are there when you need them and removable when you don't, allowing you to customize the use of the case to your liking.
With loads of interior features that are available when you need them and removable when you don't, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21" can be tailored to your packing style.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
If you value a bag with features and functions you don't have to think twice about using, then the Travelpro Platinum is a good choice. The straight roll, thoughtfully integrated interior accessories, and sleek design make it a good option for those who want to spend less time worrying about their luggage and more time focusing on their travels. We've also tested the larger, checked-bag 29-inch version in our full-size luggage review and love its massive capacity and smart features just as much. For anyone seeking a single piece of handsome, well-priced, thoughtfully organized carry on luggage that will transition effortlessly from high-profile business trips to relaxed international vacations, this is the case we'd point you toward first.
The Platinum Elite's streamlined yet professionally sharp exterior, built of Duraguard-coated ballistic nylon, is also designed for lasting durability in the face of unexpected hotel, airline, or roadside abuse. In testing, it held tough just as promised, showcasing a unique combination of versatility and core foundational strength. The main downside to this bag is that it ranked among the heavier options in our test group, with dimensions that slightly exceed airline compliance standards. While we never had to gate check this bag, if the possibility of not making it past the check-in counter because of an oversized bag concerns you, then you may want to check out the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Spinner instead. However, we still found the Travelpro 21" an easy choice when doling out top honors, and we would highly recommend it as your go-to carry on.
Comin' in hot. Premium self-correcting spinner wheels instantly align in the direction you're headed, providing a smooth, straight roll every time. It's like setting your carry-on to autopilot.
Small in stature but surprisingly big in storage space, the tough polypropylene Samsonite Freeform Spinner is built to haul with stability and ease. A recent overhaul by the manufacturer gives this case a more trendy, stylish look that is on par with many of today's top hardshells — just don't count on many special organizational tools to aid you in packing. Instead, you will find the basics: a standard open-layout clamshell design with simple cross-straps, a strong mesh panel enclosure, and a single small hanging accessory pocket. You will also discover a couple of nice extras, like a side-mounted TSA-approved lock for added security, an expansion zipper, and a cool slide-out name tag.
SPECIFICATIONS
Exterior Dimensions
23.0" x 15.0" x 10"
Weight (Measured)
6.6 lb
Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
41.2 L
Exterior Material
Polypropylene
Number of Wheels
4
The Samsonite Freeform Spinner does not have what we would consider a real compression system, but we really liked that the interior still manages to offer an impressive storage volume. We were able to easily fit everything we needed for several multi-day trips across the U.S. The standard rectangular shape makes it easy to use the space efficiently, and the hardshell design keeps you from overstuffing the bag (even if you want to). This suitcase's polypropylene shell is also lighter than average, so it won't weigh you down as much, even when fully loaded.
There's no place like home. Our Freeform in its natural environment.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Freeform would be a great option for you if you travel on a light to moderate basis and are looking for a carry-on that really offers a fair amount of style and durability at a reasonable cost. We think the Freeform is ideal for both pleasure and work travel, provided you're okay with just the basics. It offers an above-average capacity and an open space to organize how you wish. It is also one of the most affordable cases we have tested. While it didn't earn top marks for quality, it performs better than most other bags in this price range and only fell short during some of our harsher tests. We recommend this bag to those who are willing to forgo fancy features for a basic, affordable, and reliable carry on bag.
All points considered, the respectable Freeform easily emerged as the best value option among hardshell carry-ons. If this is still too much, the Delsey Paris Helium Aero is a solid choice that costs a little less. On the other hand, if you're willing to spend a little more for a significant upgrade in ease of use, durability, and style, the Away The Carry-On is another excellent option.
Although slightly sportier and more casual in appearance than other favorites in our test suite, the well-priced SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable 21-Inch earned recognition for both performance and value due to its impressive capacity, comfortable ride, and an array of extra organizational amenities. One of the first things we noticed was how easy it was to pack, zip, and roll, whether hauling a week-long summer adventure wardrobe or a climbing trip's worth of bulky gear.
SPECIFICATIONS
Exterior Dimensions
23.0" x 14.1" x 10.0"
Weight (Measured)
7.3 lb
Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
40.5 L
Exterior Material
Polyester
Number of Wheels
4
We found a laundry list of useful interior pockets and features that we love, including a removable toiletry pouch, adjustable compression straps, and a bag-length expansion zipper. Combined, they ensure plenty of space and tools to work with inside. Two sizeable front pockets add further capacity and flexibility to the exterior. Finally, several well-padded carry grips, a solid telescoping handle, and a set of surprisingly efficient 360-degree single-wheel spinners combine to support easy maneuverability between streets and stairwells, even when fully packed. Made from durable, scuff-resistant polyester, the SwissGear Sion held up relatively well throughout testing, developing just a few minor scratches, some rattling in the handle, and a clicking noise within one wheel well (which interestingly self-corrected shortly afterwards). Where this case starts to stumble is in its weight and size. Built just slightly larger than airline compliance standards allow, this bag is also easy to overstuff when utilizing the front pockets, making it too bulky to fit in an overhead bin.
Testing our Sion Softside's ability to handle a flight of stairs.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
You'll love this carry-on if budget and performance rank equally among your top priorities. Price-conscious business travelers and pleasure travelers will be drawn to this bag for its impressive functionality and friendly price tag. It offers the average traveler enough compartmentalization to make packing easy. It's also built well enough to be shoved into the overhead bin for years to come; however, the SwissGear Sion is not as stout as more expensive bags, so proper care is a must.
Want a matching set on a budget? We also tested the 29" Sion, which is a great value for checking a bag. If you can spend a little extra (or wait for a good sale), the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21" is well worth the upgrade for anyone who travels regularly or is hard on their gear.
The Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner didn't garner our top scores. It didn't wow us with newfangled features or win us over with a fancy fashion-forward design. However, we were fascinated by its price tag and quality, and it's a solid buy on a tight budget. While the Amazon Basics does not have remotely the same construction quality as the top carry on bags in our lineup, it does the trick for an occasional weekend trip. In our testing, it proved itself more rugged than we anticipated. It rolls well, has a respectable volume, and doesn't look like cheap luggage. This bag is basic, good enough for simple travel, and fits the bill when you're short on cash and need a decent carry on that doesn't cost more than your airfare.
SPECIFICATIONS
Exterior Dimensions
22.0" x 14.8" x 10.0"
Weight (Measured)
6.6 lb
Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
36 L
Exterior Material
Polycarbonate
Number of Wheels
4
In our testing, we loved that it proved to be more rugged than anticipated. We like that it rolls well, has a respectable volume, and doesn't exactly look like cheap luggage. The Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner has its share of flaws. The most glaring is its overall longevity. Although we saw no blatant examples of this during our testing, we read plenty of other testaments about its limited lifespan — and after having our hands on so many different suitcases over the years, we're not convinced this one will withstand the brutality of travel in the long term. Its shell is made from higher-end plastics, but the rest of its components are thinner, cheaper, and more questionable.
Getting ready to stuff our Amazon full of two-days worth of clothing. For its price, it comes with a fairly decent weight-to-volume ratio.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Those seeking a quick, inexpensive purchase will like the convenience of ordering the Amazon Basics Hardside and having it dropped at their doorstep within a day. Students, families, infrequent travelers, and deal-seekers alike will love its price, color options, and relatively solid performance, as long as air travel isn't a frequent occurrence — this good deal has its durability limitations.
If this is still too much for you and you truly need to get on that plane for the least amount of money possible, the Rockland Softside Expandable 2-Piece is an option. It's much smaller and very poor in quality, but it's what you need to get from here to there.
Synonymous with the bird of prey for which it's named, the Osprey Daylite Wheeled Duffel 40 is lightweight and agile. It swallows up gear and can be quickly adapted to move easily across nearly any terrain, making it a shoo-in for one of our top awards. Made from recycled 600-denier polyester, the Daylite excels at capacity. It's the lightest carry on luggage model in our lineup and boasts the largest volume (43.5 liters) of any bag on our list. Translation: it can carry more of your stuff.
SPECIFICATIONS
Exterior Dimensions
22.0" x 15.0" x 8.0"
Weight (Measured)
4.6 lb
Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
43.5 L
Exterior Material
Recycled polyester
Number of Wheels
2
One thing we really like is that it offers a large central storage compartment with hardy compression straps to hold oddly shaped gear. It also dons three convenient exterior compartments, which do a great job securing documents or phones but are also a convenient place to stash last-minute items or dirty clothes. All packing aside, the Daylite's true abilities come to light after the wheels hit the tarmac, and the pilot offers an obligatory welcome to your destination. Within seconds, this pint-sized gear hauler can easily transform from a two-wheeled roller to a duffel bag to a fully functional backpack. Suddenly, getting your stuff over challenging terrain is more of an adventure than an obstacle. The Daylite's reverse coil zippers keep out dust and moisture but are somewhat difficult to operate. Additionally, its trolley handle is thin and wobbly, and the Daylite can be a tad unbalanced when standing up fully loaded. Lastly, its treated polyester shell does a good job at repelling rain, but it isn't as perfectly water-resistant as we hoped, especially in an absolute downpour.
A perfect working environment. We enjoyed rolling our Osprey Daylite down this dirt road. Its sturdy, over-sized wheels are perfect for this type of terrain.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
However, after scribbling down an old-school pros and cons list, we certainly had far more positives than negatives — with our favorite being the ability to roll, carry, or backpack our gear nearly anywhere we wanted to go. We think adventure lovers who want versatility will appreciate this bag's ability to switch gears quickly, but true outdoor junkies may be disappointed with its lightweight materials because they are, unfortunately, a little less rugged.
For a more robust gear hauler, we strongly suggest The North Face Base Camp Rolling Thunder 22. Although heavier and less spacious than the Osprey Daylite, this bag is super dense, well-built, and very tough. We also really like the Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Roller. Its fabrics aren't as thick as the Rolling Thunder bag, but it's still sturdy, well-designed, and very current and stylish.
If you're hunting for a carry-on that doubles as a backpack, look no further than the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L, our favorite model from our travel backpack review. This versatile travel companion strikes the perfect balance between size and functionality. It adheres to TSA carry-on regulations while offering ample space for a long weekend escape. Durability is another strong suit, and the comfy straps and supportive waist belt ensure comfortable carrying throughout your journey. We particularly appreciate the designated laptop compartment and the many inside and out pockets that keep your belongings organized. An external water bottle pocket is a convenient add-on, and the external compression straps allow you to lash on a secondary daypack for additional storage. Anyone who has ever navigated the airport obstacle course with a backpack appreciates this.
While the Sojourn Porter excels in ruggedness and capacity, it leans towards the bulkier side. Unlike some clamshell-style travel backpacks, it doesn't splay open flat for packing. However, the structured sides maintain the pack's shape, which is handy during packing. This Osprey bag is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a backpack-style carry-on. If you prioritize a sleeker design, The North Face Base Camp Voyager might be a better fit.
If you prize simplicity and durability above all, consider the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel, our favorite pick from our extensive duffel bag review. This versatile duffel comes in a range of sizes, and we tested the 55L version that qualifies as a carry-on for many airlines. The Black Hole Duffel is known for its durability. The 900-denier recycled material is tough enough to withstand bumps and scrapes during travel, and the reinforced bottom panel provides additional protection for your gear. The water-resistant fabric sheds light rain, keeping your belongings safe.
While the Black Hole Duffel is a great choice for many travelers, it lacks internal organization. The interior has one large compartment, so consider using packing cubes to stay organized. If organization is a priority, you might also prefer a duffel with built-in compartments, like the Cotopaxi Allpa mentioned earlier. Another minor drawback is the finicky snaps that connect the handles. Overall, the Black Hole Duffel is a highly-rated and durable duffel bag that's a popular choice among travelers.
The Black Hole from Patagonia is our favorite duffel bag. It comes in multiple sizes and is versatile, easy to pack, and has removable shoulder straps.
Sometimes, simple precision and quality are enough to set something apart. Such is the case with the Rimowa Original Cabin. The Rimowa Original is devoid of gadgetry and over-engineering. Instead, a distinctive ribbed aluminum shell, two thick latch locks, and smooth premium spinner wheels are enough to secure this bag's place as our favorite luxury hardshell carry on. True, it's very pricey. However, don't expect any apologies from the manufacturer. You get what you pay for with the Rimowa Original.
SPECIFICATIONS
Exterior Dimensions
19.0" x 14.0" x 9.0"
Weight (Measured)
9.5 lb
Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
39.5 L
Exterior Material
Aluminium
Number of Wheels
4
Tester Jason Wanlass says it's “the highest-quality carry on I've ever used.” We also loved its entirely aluminum shell, reinforced end caps, handles, and hinges, all of which are entirely secured by premium metal rivets. The bag's main compartment boasts a simple but very effective packing system, with both sides of the clamshell interior donning the Rimowa's Flex Divider — a panel-based compression system that cinches down on clothing and keeps it immobile during transit. The result is more usable space when packing and fewer wrinkles when you reach your destination. All expensive trappings aside, the Rimowa Original Cabin's pièce de résistance is its smooth ride. Four exceptional spinner wheels allow it to glide down airport terminals, city streets, or hotel hallways quietly. Almost as heavy as its price, the Rimowa Original's 9.5 pounds makes it one of the weightier bags on our list, limiting the amount of weight you can pack within. Its all-metal case isn't expandable, isn't as pliable as softshells, and is a little too prone to scratches and dents for its price. Likewise, despite appearing so, our water tests showed that it isn't perfectly watertight.
Chillin' with a very expensive footstool.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Checking in with reality, most would-be buyers will consider the Rimowa Original's celebrity-sized price tag its most glaring negative feature — and they're not wrong. However, the Rimowa Original will still appeal to travelers looking to store their weekend's worth of clothes in the luxury. It certainly offers some of the most elite craftsmanship money can buy, and those who have big enough bank accounts will enjoy its smooth rolling wheels, large latches, and eye-catching design.
The Tumi 19 Degree International Expandable is another top-tier luxury luggage we were very impressed by. Even with its exorbitant price, it costs about half as much as the Rimowa Original Cabin and is an excellent premium hard-sided suitcase. The Away The Carry-On offers an internal compression panel system very similar to the one in the Rimowa Original. It's also very rugged, stylish, and comes at a fraction of the price.
For those with a budget for premium products, look no further than the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Spinner. It checks all the right boxes across all metrics and remains one of our favorite pieces in this suite. We love its flexibility and organizational features –- particularly the multiple exterior pockets, built-in suiter, “Outsider” roller handle, and clever two-inch CX expansion system.
SPECIFICATIONS
Exterior Dimensions
22.1" x 14.3" x 9.1"
Weight (Measured)
10.1 lb
Main Compartment Volume (Measured)
36 L
Exterior Material
High-density nylon
Number of Wheels
4
We appreciate that even when stuffed full, this carry on still rolls effortlessly alongside us from hotel to airport and packs easily into trunks and overhead compartments en route. We also love the case's ballistic nylon exterior with reinforced edging and robust easy-glide zippers deliver a durable, protective shell to keep all items safe within, while large shock-absorbing 360-degree spinner wheels and a multi-level telescoping handle provide quiet, effortless navigation and fluid mobility over most surfaces.
Heading downstairs to battle through TSA. The Baseline's exterior pockets make it easy to shove everything in my pockets into one place so my TSA tray doesn't look like a disorganized yard sale.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Added touches like the handy SmartLink strap, multiple low-profile load handles, a hidden ID tag, a TSA-approved lock, and an exterior power pack pocket will be features that draw in high-end consumers who are looking for a carry-on that is a cut above the rest. This bag is perfect for particular business travelers who like the ability to pack their business clothes effectively. Its understated style will also appeal to conservative jet-setters who also have the money to buy the best.
So, while the Baseline Essential Spinner may rank among the heavier carry on luggage cases we've tested, weight is a worthy tradeoff for all you gain in durability, design, and features. Sophisticated in its styling and immensely versatile, for those who can afford it, this is a high-end carry on bag set to carry you through your adventures in style. If this is out of your budget's range, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21" has a similar suite of features, vibe, and aesthetic appeal but a much lower price tag.
Hitting the slopes. When pushed down a flight of stairs, the Briggs and Riley flips quickly onto its back and literally skis down each step. This is an ideal response, and is made possible by its exterior trolley handle that also acts as a full-length bumper rail.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
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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 Test Carry On Luggage
Since tackling our first carry on luggage reviews a decade ago, we have developed a long history of assembling an energized crew of travel experts to poke, prod, roll, and throw our cases from every angle. To test these carry on bags, 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 loose gravel, bumped them up and down curbs and stairs, and threw them on the ground to see how well they still held up. Since 2013, we've analyzed carry on luggage, identifying which bags are best for different packing styles and which aren't worth your money. As always, we buy all our gear at retail price and test it rigorously, side-by-side, for a truly unbiased and comprehensive review. Learn more about how we test carry on luggage here.
Our carry on luggage testing is divided into four mutually exclusive rating metrics:
Capacity (35% of overall scoring)
Ease of Transportation (25% of score)
Construction Quality (20% 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 of experts often travels near and far, be it logging serious road time or racking up portfolios of hotel points and frequent flyer miles. From treks through Sierra Nevada peaks to business meetings among the cobbled city streets of the Andes and cross-continental road trips back here at home, our testing team is built of practiced packers who know how to appreciate a great piece of luggage and can recognize the signs when a case sometimes falls short. Our testing team is headed up by lead luggage-beater Jason Wanlass. Jason loves adventuring to unique corners of the globe, particularly mountainous regions. He enjoys the thrill of hiking in the most famous mountain ranges in the world, 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 seven 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 honing in on the best carry on luggage available.
Tired travelers will appreciate the many details that make maneuvering the Baseline Essential Spinner so pleasant, like its soft cushioned grab handle at the top.
We run each of our carry-on contenders through rigorous testing to establish the winners and losers among them, including tossing them from various heights onto concrete floors.
Each bag goes through an in-depth packability test so that we can see how well they'll fit clothing and gear to suit different types of travel, and how they stack up against one another.
We're serious travelers demanding a lot from our luggage.
How to Pick the Best Carry On Luggage for You
Before deciding on your next carry on, here are four key considerations to help guide your decision in choosing the best luggage for your personal needs.
Do You Need A Carry On?
For more seasoned flyers, a carry on bag can be an essential item during travel. If you are wondering how necessary a carry on bag is for your personal needs, consider the length of trips you plan on taking, if you plan on bringing essentials such as a computer along, and in the event of long layovers needing access to your belongings.
What Size Should You Choose?
Choosing an appropriate size bag can be the difference between an enjoyable trip and wishing you had opted for something smaller or bigger. Sometimes different airlines have different size restrictions. Determining how much versatility you need from your carry on is also a factor to consider. If your bag is strictly for weekend trips, then a smaller bag will work just fine. On the other hand, if you plan on using your carry on for week-long trips, you'll probably want a larger-volume bag. When deciding on your next carry on bag, analyze your personal needs and the types of items you typically bring along when traveling.
Double-checking the dimensions with the expansion feature employed.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Hard or Soft Shell?
A hard shell bag will provide better durability and protection while traveling and offer a bit more protection from weather and the elements. A soft shell will provide better flexibility and offer expandable compartments to increase capacity. Another benefit of a soft shell is 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.
Two Wheels vs. Four
Carry on luggage will most often come in either two- or four-wheel configurations. A two-wheel bag will be easier to move around over rougher surfaces and may provide better stability at times. A four-wheel will offer the ability to spin 360 degrees and will be less strenuous to move around. If you want the ability to maneuver through airports, a four-wheeled bag will be superior, but a two-wheel bag will provide better handling over uneven surfaces and provide better speed.
Although the clearance is relatively low on the Away Carry-On, sturdy spinner wheels in well-protected housings deliver a reliably smooth and stable ride over most average surfaces.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Analysis and Test Results
There are many important factors to consider when searching for the perfect piece of carry on luggage. We divided our testing and evaluations into four mutually exclusive metrics that make up everything we look for in a bag. We then weighed each metric appropriately, according to how important it is to the luggage's overall performance, to adequately examine the total picture of each carry on. Here, we'll break down each metric into which bags performed best — and which fell short — to help you identify your ideal travel companion.
What's the Best Value?
When shopping for luggage, you'll face many choices spanning a wide range of prices. And when selecting from among rolling carry on bags specifically, we noticed a 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. Another budget-friendly hardshell is the Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner. Its materials are lower quality, but this bag is a great deal for one-time use and moderate travel. If you constantly fly, invest in a bag designed to last through greater abuse when hauled worldwide. When balancing professional good looks with ease of use and strength in construction, the Travelpro Platinum Elite outshines most of the bags in our test suite. Best of all, it's far from the most expensive, fast securing it a place of honor as the most affordable high-value carry on on our list.
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. Accordingly, the most heavily weighted metric in our testing plan (capacity) was centered on each bag's ability to accommodate a variety of possible packing lists effectively.
We weighed every bag and took internal measurements to calculate their volume. We noted which bags can expand to accommodate more and which have pockets that increase overall capacity.
During our packing tests and real-world traveling tests, we examined the load security of each piece of luggage. We put them to use to see which ones can adequately do the job and which are just for looks.
Topping our list with the largest overall capacity is the Osprey Daylite Wheeled Duffel 40. At 4.6 pounds, the Daylite is the lightest bag on our current list, and it also boasts the largest volume at 43.5 liters, giving it the greatest capacity when compared directly against the other products we tested. The Daylite is a softshell case, so in addition to its larger capacity, it can more easily accommodate a variety of payloads, including bulky or oddly shaped gear.
This video shows the storage capacity of our previously tested Osprey Daylite 40. Newer models of the bag share the same packing volume and the lowest weight of all the bags on our list. For the user, this means it has the ability to carry more of your things.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Travelpro Platinum Elite proved to be one of the top competitors regarding capacity, although it was slightly bested by the Delsey Paris Helium Aero, Samsonite Freeform Spinner and Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Roller. The Travelpro has a deceptively large volume and versatile organizational and compression system hidden beneath a streamlined exterior. All items in our weeklong summertime packing test fit without expansion, with all pockets and compression panels proving useful and only the slightest amount of extra muscle required to seal the master zipper closed.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite stood out in both our “summer vacation” and our “bulky item” packing tests.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Most of our lineup falls into two main types of carry ons: hardshells and softshells (but we also tested a few duffel-inspired gear haulers). Hardshell cases employ a hard exterior shell that opens in half, like a clamshell, and splits wide down the middle along a midline hinge. 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. For this reason, hard-sided models typically have a zippered panel enclosure to one side and a set of restraint or compression straps on the other (in addition to any other internal pockets or organizational features you may find).
The Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner is a perfect example of a basic hardshell carry-on. It opens down the middle and parts in half like a clam shell.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Softshell cases have a fabric shell, traditionally comprised of ballistic nylon or polyester. They almost always employ a zipped top lid that flips open from the front side of the bag to provide access to the entire main compartment as just one core storage space.
The Briggs & Riley Baseline is a great example of a softshell case. They are typically constructed of ballistic nylon, and have a top lid opening style.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
The top hardshells in our lineup with the best weight-to-volume ratios are the Tumi 19 Degree International Expandable (7.6 pounds, 38 liters), Samsonite Freeform Spinner (6.6 pounds, 41.2 liters), and the Delsey Paris Helium Aero (8.2 pounds, 42.5 liters). Due to thick, ridged, less-accommodating exteriors, hardshells tend to offer a little less volume; however, all three bags boast very compelling capacities. 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, the Rimowa Original's one drawback in this metric is that it's a heavier metal case.
Although a little heavy, we were very surprised and impressed with the Delsey's spacious 42.5-liter interior.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
One thing we liked about the Samsonite Freeform Spinner is its re-designed polypropylene case — one of the only in our lineup. Although the industry standard for hardshell cases is polycarbonate, polypropylene is still very sturdy, but it's softer, more pliable, and 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).
We were very impressed with the Samsonite Freeform Spinner's capacity. It weighs less and offers a large interior compartment, which means we could pack more into it -- if only our bag twirling skills were as impressive.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Among our top-performing softshells are the Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Roller (6.5 pounds, 41.2L) SwissGear Sion Softside 21-Inch (7.3 pounds, 40.5 liters), The North Face Base Camp Rolling Thunder 22 (8.1 pounds, 40.3 liters), and the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21-Inch (8.1 pounds, 40 liters). These bags offer an appealing array of extra compartments that can be expanded for greater capacities. The TravelPro, in particular, offers one of the most comprehensive packing systems in our lineup, rivaled only by the Briggs and Riley Baseline Essential Spinner.
Storing our phone in the Cotopaxi's exterior top pocket before we cruise through the terminal.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Although heavier due to construction quality, we'd like to make specific mention of the capacity of the The North Face Base Camp Rolling Thunder 22. What we loved about its packing system is its ability to haul a wide variety of payloads, from clothes to gear. Not only does it pack it well — with the help of a durable compression panel — but this bag's thick exterior protects like a guard dog. It's one of our favorite international adventure bags on the market.
Doing what it does best: this bag was made for exploring.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
No matter which organizational scheme a case offers, we still put each bag through two controlled “packability” tests. First, a standard capacity test, cramming everything required for a week's worth of temperate weather travel into each bag. The second test is just a ramped-up version of the first, this time including bulkier, oddly shaped, or even fragile items along the lines of what one might take with them for a ski vacation or a climbing trip. For our purposes, this packing list included such things as a harness, helmet, rope, quickdraws, and a selection of clothing, toiletries, books, and shoes.
An open-layout clam-shell design can be a real boon when packing oddly shaped items and unusual gear in a standardized case.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
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 gravel), 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.
We first want to see how each bag rolls and assess how easy it is to carry and load. Four-wheeled spinner bags tend to be more variable in their performances, with some tracking smoothly and quietly right alongside you as you walk, while others catch and drag or even tip over when faced with an occasional crack in the road or a shift of weight. Similarly, there are times when we need to manhandle bags up and down stairs or across awkward surfaces and into overhead bins, and this is where grab handles come in handy.
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
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. Additionally, 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 thanks to thoughtful designs and the placement of well-made carrying handles all the way around their exteriors.
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
On the other side of the coin, 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 on our tests involving all things movement. Of particular note, we were also quite surprised by the budget-friendly Amazon Basics 20-Inch. Boasting some of the tallest and widest double-wheeled spinners on our list, the Amazon rolls smoothly, tracks well, and handles a variety of terrain with impressive resilience.
An old-school boarding of our flight from Tibet to Nepal. The Away's handles are balanced and easy to grip, making it easy to move, carry, and load.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Instead of rolling in tandem next to you, two-wheel bags balance on two wheels and are pulled directly behind the traveler. The stand-out two-wheel rollers in our review are the Osprey Daylite Wheeled Duffel 40 and the The North Face Base Camp Rolling Thunder 22.
In general, four-wheeled bags are easier to roll through a crowded airport or tight airplane aisle. In our testing, even a four-year-old was able to roll his own four-wheeled bag through the terminal. However, not all wheels are created equal —- we especially like the handy, automatic magnetic alignment of the Travelpro Platinum Elite bag.
What was once considered older technology, roller bags have reemerged into the luggage scene as the preferred bag for hauling gear. The Daylite's large-tread beefy wheels have a certain swagger and can navigate over nearly any terrain. This bag is easy to transport, whether you're lifting, pulling, loading, or rumbling over a rocky trail.
In addition to wheel function, we also studied features that made a bag easy to lift, adjust, or carry. The The North Face Base Camp Rolling Thunder 22 boasts five well-placed grab handles that make it a breeze to latch onto, whether you're throwing it into the back seat, lugging it up a flight of stairs, or shoving it into the overhead compartment. This bag is very easy to move.
This bag has serious handles. We never had a problem lifting, carrying, or positioning it.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Construction Quality
When spending on new luggage, most of us want to make sure our purchase lasts more than a flight or two. The best luggage will hold up to the worst any airport or hotel personnel can throw at it and should last through all types of adventures. That's why we examined the material, construction, and overall sturdiness of each carry on piece to better understand 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, Travelpro Platinum Elite, and The North Face Base Camp Rolling Thunder 22 are built for serious hauls out of 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.
We pushed our fully loaded Briggs and Riley bag off its perch. It fell three feet and hit the ground hard. It then seemed to look up at us and say, "Is that all you got?"
Credit: Jason Wanlass
It's no surprise these bags are impressively durable even under extreme circumstances, with basically 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”.
We made sure to thoroughly test the water-repelling capabilities of every piece of luggage in our lineup.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Many of our more budget-friendly cases were still able to balance acceptable ruggedness and longevity with an appealing price tag. This isn't always an easy task in the luggage world. Often, one construction feature must be sacrificed for another, namely strength for cost. However, the Samsonite Freeform, SwissGear Sion, Amazon Basics Hardside, and Delsey Paris Helium Aero all performed well enough to earn above-average scores for their toughness.
According to numerous flight attendants, the main components that tend to wear out on carry on luggage are exterior – handles and zippers – so we paid close attention to these areas. We examined and researched the construction materials of each bag. We also inspected the high-wear use features and areas, such as the wheels and corner edges.
In particular, we were impressed with the strength and resilience of the Samsonite Freeform (polypropylene) and Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner (polycarbonate) shells. Both were tough enough to handle anything we threw at them (or vice versa). Additionally, we were highly impressed at the Delsey's ability to combine a high-end fashion vibe with incredible ruggedness — and all at an appealing price point.
When it comes to sheer ruggedness, the The North Face Base Camp Rolling Thunder 22 definitely caught our eye the minute we pulled it out of the shipping box. It has a treated 1000-denier recycled polyester shell that is relentless when it comes to taking a hit. This bag's underbelly is solid as well, and it has long bumper rails that protect from direct contact. If you're headed out for serious adventure, this bag is one to consider.
The Rolling Thunder's bumper rails allow it to glide down a flight of concrete stairs instead of tumbling end over end.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Design and Functionality
Some of our award-winning bags can cost as much as a plane ticket. And with such elevated price tags, most travelers will expect a well-rounded case rather than a master of one. 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 compiled all of our data and 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. Each of the three earned one of our Best In Class Awards, with the TravelPro being named our favorite overall carry on luggage model. So it's no surprise that these three beauties would 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 bougie 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
Of special note, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential employs our favorite packing system. To start, 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 incorporated discreetly into the bag's opening lid, creating the perfect tool for laying out a suit or dress to minimize wrinkles in transit. Finally, instead of a traditional zipper expansion, here 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. Just add in your belongings and cinch down the internal compression panels over your load before zipping 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 free from bulging. And if that's not enough space, use the included SmartLink strap to attach a purse or laptop bag to the top of your case.
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. Its deceptively large capacity houses plenty of organizational features to keep your belongings separate and in place within its streamlined exterior. Its compression straps have panels of fabric (with pockets) stretched between them to securely hold down everything you bring. 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 alluring mid-modern 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 we didn't love about this carry on. This case excels at extras, from its well-thought-out interior storage system to its included laundry bag, especially given its price point. It also offers a distinguishable stitch trim accent and several color options, so you still have the option to stand out in the crowd at the luggage carousel.
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.
The SwissGear Sion Carry-On has a whole lot of handy features all rolled into one, like this waterproof toiletry bag that snaps into the inside for transit.
An interior pocket sized for accessories and other small items comes in super handy when packing the Travelpro Maxlite 5.
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.
Finally, we must mention the unique design features of our two resident gear haulers, the Osprey Daylite Wheeled Duffel 40. This adventure bag earned respectable marks in this metric for its distinctive functionality. It's an excellent carry on bag specializing in moving gear from point A to point B, with unique features including rugged go-anywhere wheels, burly water-resistive fabrics, wide-open duffel-style storage, and excellent grab handles.
The Osprey Daylite Wheeled Duffel 40 boasts the unique ability to adapt to an adventure traveler's modes of transport. It can be wheeled through an airport terminal, converted to be carried as a duffel, and even transformed into a backpack when it's time to go off-grid. These features give the Osprey Daylite added value and versatility - and they're just plain cool.
From the airport to the great outdoors. The Osprey's adaptability and function is what made it our favorite gear hauler.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Two of our other favorites for this metric are the Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Roller and the The North Face Base Camp Rolling Thunder 22. Both bags are showoffs when it comes to catching the attention of other travelers. In particular, the Cotopaxi is a patchwork of random colors that somehow combine to make an eye-catching pallet. This design is a trademark design of Cotopaxi (known for its daypacks), and we think this look transfers very well to their newer luggage line.
Lookin' good with our Cotopaxi while we do our airport thing. This carry-on is cool and catchy.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Staying true to its company's decades-old iconic vibe, The North Face Base Camp Rolling Thunder 22 claims its territory with a large logo on the top of the bag. More conservative travelers may not be drawn to its loud-and-proud design, but most will agree that it certainly stands out amidst the sea of rolling carry-ons. We really liked how the bag functions, as well as its bright red wheels, over-sized trolley handle, and traditional The North Face look — it just kinda' screams adventure.
A Nepalese rickshaw driver chillin' with our The North Face Base Camp Rolling Thunder -- our favorite part is the Nirvana T-shirt.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
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.
