best travel garment bag carry on

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The 14 Best Carry-on Travel Garment Bags in 2024 [Suits, Dresses, Shirts & More]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

787 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3207 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

The benefits of using a travel garment bag, things to consider with travel garment bags, packing tips for traveling with a garment bag, the 7 best non-wheeled carry-on travel garment bags, the 7 best wheeled travel garment bags, final thoughts.

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Garment bags are designed to keep your clothing crease-free and perfectly organized every time you travel.

Whether you’re going away on business, traveling somewhere fancy, or like to always go out in style, invest in one of these useful bags to keep your clothes fresh and wrinkle-free every time.

If you want your clothing to be ship-shape and ready to wear when you reach your destination, the very best way is to invest in a dedicated garment carrier.

A perfect garment bag will bridge the gap between a suitcase and a suit protector by offering useful pockets, compartments, and storage spaces that are designed to hold every bit of clothing safely and securely while you’re in transit.

Garment bags offer many benefits over and above a regular duffel bag or suitcase. With a garment bag, you can:

• Hang your garments upright. Keep your clothes crease-free by hanging them in the car, on the bus, on the train, and in the hotel when you get there. The only place you can’t hang them up is on the plane. But, there’s a solution for that, too — merely lie them flat to keep your clothes wrinkle-free and ready to go.
• Choose from a variety of transport options. You can have a rolling garment bag, a shoulder garment bag, or a garment duffel bag, depending on your needs and carrying preference when in transit. There are lots of different garment bags to choose from. There’s no “one size fits all” solution when it comes to carrying your clothing, as every traveler will have different-sized clothing to accommodate.
• Fit in the overhead . Most garment bags are designed to be used as carry-on luggage and will meet airline regulations when rolled or folded. No checked luggage means faster boarding and no luggage carousels.

Before you rush out a buy a garment bag to keep your gear safe in transit, consider the following:

Size and Capacity

Deciding whether you want to check your garment bag or not will dictate the size of the bag that works best for you. For carry-on bags , the maximum measurements will usually be around 22 x 14 x 9 inches — so be sure to consider that before you buy.

When it comes to capacity, some bags will offer lots of room for added extras like shoes, wash bags, and casual clothing, while others will be designed to keep your suit crease-free and ready for the boardroom.

You may also want to consider the length of the carrier. If you’re packing a ball gown, wedding dress, or another type of fancy outfit, you’ll want to look for one that can fit full-length items without squishing them.

Compartments and Organization

While your clothes will be kept neatly arranged and hanging nicely, you should also consider what extra storage spaces you’ll need to carry all your belongings.

From basic suit covers, right through to collapsible wardrobe bags, there will be the right type of interior organization for you.

Dedicated spaces for shoes, ties, and underwear, for example, are useful for business travelers, while zippered compartments for smaller items, wet compartments for toiletries, and even external compartments that take the place of your handbag can be useful depending on your individual needs and preferences.

Material and Durability

As with any luggage, you want a garment bag that will be lightweight enough to carry with you, yet strong enough to not rip or tear at the first sign of travel fatigue. These bags are also designed to fold, so the fabric will need to be flexible, yet strong enough to keep your clothing secure.

Most garment bags are made from the same type of tough nylon or synthetic material that laptop bags and travel duffels are made from, which may even offer some protection against wet weather. Be sure you know exactly what your garment bag can and can’t do before you buy it.

Wheels vs. No Wheels

Wheeled garment bags are easy to pull behind you through the never-ending maze of an airport concourse and are perfect for urban adventures and public transport. They’re not, however, quite so effective on rough terrain, unpaved roads, beaches, or open countryside.

Garment bags without wheels will need to be carried with a hand or shoulder strap, which can be tiresome over long distances. They are, however, usually a little lighter and easier to place in the overhead cabin.

Wheels or no wheels? It’s really up to you as there are pros and cons to both.

Simply put, there are 3 main types of garment bags to choose from. They include:

• Bi-Fold Bags — This type of garment bag folds in the middle for compact carrying. When they fold up, the bottom will zip, tie, or attach to the top so it can be carried or hung as 1 piece. These types of garment carriers are the most commonly available and come in a variety of designs and materials to suit all budgets.
• Tri-Fold Bags — Tri-fold bags are incredibly lightweight and so compact that they can be attached to the pullout handle of your suitcase. Typically small, this type of garment bag only holds enough to last you for a day or so, but they can be folded for transit and immediately hung up when you reach your destination.
• Rolling Garment Bags — The clue is in the name with these types of bags, as not only do they fold, they also roll! With wheels and a handle, these bags are bigger and heavier than their bi- or tri-fold counterparts but can carry more for longer trips.

Handles and Zippers

Whether you need a long handle to pull your bag behind you, oversized straps for carrying over your shoulder, or a grab handle for quick pick-ups; quality is key.

Sturdy metal handles, leather, or nylon straps, and durable designs are all vital to ensuring your handle stays intact as long as the bag is in use.

The same rules apply to zippers. You need high-quality zippers (and locks) that will keep your garments secure. Small zippers can break easily, so choose a garment bag with big, durable zippers and zipper pulls to keep your belongings safely tucked away.

Your garment bag has been designed to keep your clothing crease-free and perfectly organized in transit. If you aren’t going to pack it correctly, you may as well throw all your gear in a backpack and be done with it.

Follow these top tips for perfect packing, every time:

Pack It Flat

Lay your garment bag out on a flat surface before you start to fill it. You could use your bed, your floor, or even your kitchen table — where you pack it isn’t important, but how you pack it is.

Work in Reverse

To ensure that your clothing is ready to wear the minute you reach your destination, pack it in the opposite order of how you would dress. For example, if you put your jacket on last, it should be the very first thing you pack. On top of your jacket, you’d pack your shirt, your pants, and so on.

Pack Facing the Back

Creases can happen, and to avoid them wrecking the look of your outfit, pack your clothing facing the back so that any creases only occur on the back of your clothing.

Follow the 1 to 6 Rule

This little rule is useful, and one used by professional packers all over the world. Pack the essentials in the following quantity: 1 hat, 2 pairs of shoes, 3 pairs of pants, 4 shirts, 5 pairs of socks, and 6 pairs of underwear. Scale this up or down to suit the length of your trip.

Tie it Down

If your garment bag has compression straps, use them to keep your clothing in place and laying flat while you travel. Don’t tighten these too much as this might create the creases you’re trying to avoid.

Pack Your Pockets Last

Those handy little pockets that are designed to hold ties, shoes, toiletries, and other accessories should be packed last after you have folded or rolled your garments.

1. The Convertible Hanging Suitcase

Modoker Carry-On Garment Bag

Weight: 2.5 pounds

Dimensions: 22.8 x 11 x 11.8 inches

This 2-in-1 garment carrier and duffel bag is an excellent option for a weekend away where you need to look your very best. With the ability to fold and be carried like a regular shoulder bag, as well as hang upright to keep your clothes crease-free, it offers a lot of bag for your money.

With a 45-liter capacity, there’s plenty of room on the inside for all of your clothing . The left side pocket is big enough to house your shoes separately from your more delicate items, while the right side pocket is perfect for your keys, wallet , and other small items.

Just the right size to use as a carry-on, you won’t need to worry about taking extra luggage with you. The smaller pocket can be used to keep your passport and boarding pass close at hand, and when folded, the bag will fit in the overhead locker or underneath your seat.

Made from high-quality polyester and jacquard, this bag is scratch-resistant and robust enough to withstand splashes of water and light rain.

With a detachable shoulder strap, this bag is easy to carry from 1 destination to another, and just as easy to hang when you get there.

What We Like

• Separate shoe compartment to keep them away from clean clothes

What We Don’t Like

• Carrying handle is not the most comfortable

2. A Thoughtfully-designed Garment Bag

Briggs & Riley, Black, 22-Inch Garment Duffel Bag

Weight: 4.09 pounds

Dimensions: 9 x 22 x 12.5 inches

With a thoughtful design, this premium garment bag from Briggs & Riley converts into a duffel and has so much to offer for the seasoned traveler. Packed full of useful compartments and made from high-quality materials, this bag was designed to deliver comfort, practicality, and style.

Made from durable ballistic nylon that’s protected from water, dirt, and tears , this bag will fare well for many international adventures. Just the right size to fit in the overhead bin on an airplane, its compact features hide its spacious interiors.

The interior has a suiter to hang 1-2 suits and the webbing straps will ensure the hangers stay in place. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to handy pockets and mesh compartments to store smaller items and the light-colored lining makes it easier to locate items. It even has a moisture-resistant shoe pocket. A hideaway ID tag and speed-access pocket with orange lining makes it easy to tell that the pocket is open.

The  Briggs & Riley Garment Bag is a high-quality, well-designed, and professional-looking garment carrier to suit both business and leisure travelers alike.

• Has a large, moisture-resistance pocket for shoes or dirty clothes
• Heavy for a garment bag

3. Take Your Tech With This Excellent Value Overnight Bag

ZEGUR Suit Carry-On Garment Bag

Weight: 2.86 pounds

Dimensions: 23 x 4 x 22 inches

Keep your clothing clean and wrinkle-free with this garment bag that’s perfect for keeping your suits looking fresh. Made from rugged, fray-resistant 1800D polyester, with a waterproof exterior and sturdy metal zippers and clasps, this is an excellent-looking garment bag that’s built to last.

On the inside, there’s a dual buckle that holds your garments in place, ensuring that they won’t get creased or wrinkled during travel. It also offers 4 inside pockets that are perfect for keeping your socks and shoes in 1 place while you travel, while the mesh pocket is just right for ties and scarves.

Designed with practicality in mind, 3 of the internal pockets zip completely shut to keep your belongings safe, while the fourth has a Velcro closure that offers plenty of space for larger items like shoes .

The main compartment has an all-important 3-loop holder at the top to keep your hangers in order, and 3 straps to secure your clothes and help reduce wrinkles when the bag is folded in half.

If you’re taking your tech with you, this bag features a large outside pocket that will hold your tech, wallet, and travel documents.

Complete with a long shoulder strap, an identification tag, and a metal chain and hook for hanging, this is a great-value garment bag that works well for overnight trips and very short stays.

• External pocket for travel documents, wallet, and devices
• Shoulder strap is a little thin, so not comfortable to carry for long

4. Style and Sophistication for the Business Traveler

AmeriLeather Three-Suit Garment Bag in Leather

Weight: 4.6 pounds

Dimensions: 5 x 23 x 39 inches

Made from top-grain, genuine leather, this swanky-looking garment bag won’t look out of place in the first class lounge at an airport. With heavy-duty, copper-colored zippers and hardware, an adjustable shoulder strap, and a sturdy carry handle on top, it’s a bag that’s made to last.

Large enough to carry up to 3 business suits or similar size ensembles , this garment bag includes 2 garment hangers and a hook that can be used over the door of your hotel or tucked away in your wardrobe.

The book-opening design makes it easy for you to access your belongings, either when they’re laying flat or hanging in the wardrobe. This little beauty even folds up small enough to fit in the overhead bin, which means no need to check baggage on your next journey.

The large zippered pocket on the outside is perfect for holding your passport, tickets, cell phone, wallet, and other small essentials, while the 2-side zip-up pockets extend into the main compartment to provide convenient and separated storage space for shoes.

Sophisticated, stylish, and incredibly spacious both inside and out, this bag may have a hefty price tag, but the look, feel, and practical design make it worth every cent.

• Stylish and functional
• Internal hanger clip can sometimes open in transit

5. A Bargain Garment Carrier With Lots of Savvy Extras

AmazonBasics Premium Garment Bag

Weight: 2.2 pounds

Dimensions: 40 x 20.5 x 4 inches

This simple and affordable garment bag from the AmazonBasics series is a great little number for those not wanting to spend a lot to keep their clothing crease-free . With enough space to hold up to the 3 suits (or similar outfits), this is great for weekend breaks or formal occasions.

Made of high-quality, weather-resistant polyester, the internal space includes multiple zipper pockets, that provide extra space for belts, shoes, ties, and other accessories. Made out of mesh, the pockets allow air to flow freely, keeping the fabric fresher longer.

Zipper closings will keep your stuff safe, while the 2 tie-down straps with buckle-style closures will stop your clothing from moving around and creasing while in transit.

The large organizer pockets in the front are good for stashing everyday items like pens, cell phones, chargers, and earbuds, as well as your passport, wallet, and other small items you need to keep close at hand.

A must-have for frequent travelers, this travel garment bag offers practical dimensions combined with plenty of travel-savvy packing spaces — all for a very affordable price.

• Carrying handle and detachable shoulder strap
• Zippers can break easily

6. A Firm Favorite for Simply Carrying Your Clothing

WallyBags Luggage 40″ Garment Bag

Weight: 2 pounds

Dimensions: 3 x 40 x 22 inches

WallyBags are a hugely popular way to carry your clothing around with you. Made from durable, polyester fabric that’s water-repellent, these offer an easy-to-use, affordable way to keep your clothing wrinkle-free.

With a full-length center zipper that allows for easy access, you can use your own hangers in conjunction with the patented WallyLock hanger clamp to keep your clothing and hangers secure.

Take up to 6 garments with you at 1 time , and simply hang them straight up when you reach your destination.

The garment bag folds in half, and the handles fasten together to make it easier to carry with you, while the same handles can also wrap around your suitcase for easier transport in and around the airport.

When folded, this perfectly meets the airline regulation carry-on size , meaning you can stow and go.

• Holds up to 6 hangers
• Doesn’t come with a shoulder strap

Hot Tip: Know that your bag will fit before you show up at the airport — check our carry-on luggage size chart for major airlines to learn more about approved dimensions and sizes.

7. Great Duffel and Garment Bag Combo on a Budget

Large Travel Duffel Garment Bag

Weight: 3.5 pounds

Dimensions: 23.6 x 12 x 12 inches

By combing the convenience of a flat garment bag with the traditional storage capacity of a duffel bag, you can enjoy the best of both worlds when it comes to packing for your next trip. Made from highly durable and waterproof material, this bag has an on-trend look, that sets it apart from many of the regular nylon-effect bags and cases that most travelers opt for.

Multiple compartments make it easy for you to store everything you need. The main storage area can easily fit suits or similar ensembles, while the interior zipper pockets are perfect for ties, belts, socks, and underwear.

The 2 exterior front pockets are easy to access on the move, making them the smart storage space for your cell phone, passport, tickets, and wallet. This bag even offers a separate shoe pocket that can be used to keep your shoes separate from your clothes.

To comfortably carry your duffel and garment bag combo, it comes complete with a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap that will allow you to take it anywhere and a slip pocket at the back to attach it to a wheeled suitcase.

With enough space to fit everything you need for a long weekend or short business trip, this is a great bag that offers flexible storage options.

• Has a separate shoe pocket
• Zippers can get stuck easily

1. Wheeled Bag for Formal Events and Functions

London Fog Buckingham 44″ Wheeled Garment Bag

Weight: 10.88 pounds

Dimensions: 23 x 4 x 44 inches

Perfect for business travel, short breaks, and formal events, this wheeled garment bag allows you to pull your possessions behind you, anywhere you go.

Spacious, well-designed, and able to keep several outfits and accessories organized and together, this bag is larger than most garment carriers, meaning it will most likely need to be checked in .

This bag has some elegant features that you won’t find in cheaper alternatives. Take, for example, the book-opening design. The spacious main compartment has multiple sections for hanging garments, undergarments, folded items, shoes, toiletries, and anything else you need with you.

It also benefits from dual hooks for super-easy hanging, while metal brackets ensure that your clothes stay neat and wrinkle-free. You can open the bag while it’s hanging in the closet, and the fold-down extension means you can carry longer items like ball gowns and wedding dresses with ease .

These additional features make this an excellent choice for anyone attending a function or formal occasion where it’s important that just a couple of outfits arrive in perfect condition.

• Opens like a suitcase
• Won’t be accepted as a carry-on with some airlines

2. Rolling Garment Bag for the Business Traveler

Travel Select Amsterdam Rolling Garment Bag Wheeled Luggage Case

Weight: 11.25 pounds

Dimensions: 7.5 x 44 x 23 inches

A good-looking and super practical rolling garment bag that won’t cost you a month’s rent. Take your favorite outfits with you in this executive-style bag that offers enough space to fit all of your essentials.

Made from 1200D 2-tone polyester construction with an EVA reinforced front panel, and industrial quality hardware, this is a durable and sturdy wheeled garment bag that can handle the bumps and bruises of international travel.

The internal handle system and in-line skate wheel make for easy maneuverability , while the adjustable and detachable shoulder strap is there to take the slack when the wheels aren’t able to roll.

Inside, the spacious main compartment has zippered mesh pockets and a number of gusseted outside pockets that are big enough to hold your passport , cell phone, keys, wallet, toiletries, and anything else you need on your trip . The convenient tie straps secure items while the fold-out design helps to reduce creases and wrinkles.

When you reach your destination, hang your bag to keep your clothing looking fresh and ready to wear.

• Roll as a suitcase or carry with the shoulder strap
• Clothing hangs upside down

3. Reliable Rolling Garment Bag From the Experts at TravelPro

Travelpro Platinum Elite Check In Rolling Garment Bag

Weight: 13.4 pounds

Dimensions: 22 x 24 x 10.50 inches

This wheeled garment bag is perfect for longer breaks or business trips and is designed to be strong enough to cope with regular domestic and international travel. Made using high-quality ballistic nylon with a DuraGuard coating, the Travelpro garment bag promises to resist scratches and stains while in transit.

Roll smoothly around the airport, hotel, or city center with the ball-bearing, in-line wheels that can handle a wide variety of terrains, while the PowerScope extension handle will minimize wobbles and is sturdy enough to stay rigid and secure .

This check-in bag meets most airline regulations for checked luggage and has a TSA combination lock to keep your belongings secure while out of your possession.

When it comes to packing, the internal space is well-proportioned with 2 roomy compartments, a padded roll bar, and tie straps to keep your clothes wrinkle-free. The small interior pockets can hold folded clothing and undergarments, and the waterproof pocket is perfect for your toiletries.

On the exterior, this bag has a quick-access front pocket and a padded laptop compartment, should you want to carry your essentials in here before checking in. This is a quality rolling garment bag from the trusted luggage manufacturers at Travelpro.

• Smooth-rolling wheels and a sturdy handle
• In-line skate wheel won’t suit everyone

4. A Brilliant Bag From a Big Name in the Luggage Game

Samsonite Luggage Ascella 3.0 Check In Wheeled Garment Bag

Weight: 10.58 pounds

Dimensions: 24 × 20.5 × 9.5 inches

Made by one of the biggest and best-known luggage brands in the world, the  Ascella 3.0  Check In Wheeled Garment Bag from Samsonite is a very good one. With extensive packing space and incredibly smooth-rolling wheels, this garment bag does everything you need it to, effortlessly.

Made from polyester material, it’s tough inside and out, and resistant to most of the rips and scuffs associated with traveling. You can use the soft touch telescopic handle to roll your belongings behind you or lift the bag in and out of the overhead compartment using the top carrying handle.

The main compartment is large enough to carry your clothing and keep it crease-free, and the expander panel allows you to pack longer items such as suits or dresses. Multiple zipper pockets are available to stop smaller items from rolling around and the wet pocket will ensure that any spills are contained.

On the exterior, there are 2 zippered pockets to hold smaller items or your travel essentials up until you check your bag and the smooth gliding zippers have an ergonomic feel to them.

• Has a wet pocket for your toiletries
• No integrated TSA lock

5. Lightweight and Sturdy G arment Bag on 2 Wheels

Travelpro Luggage Maxlite 5 22″ Lightweight Carry-On Rolling Garment Bag

Weight: 8.3 pounds

Dimensions: 8.5 x 22 x 16 inches

This lightweight, rolling carry-on garment bag offers a handy lay-flat design that makes it incredibly easy to pack, while still keeping your clothing crease-free and fresh as a daisy. Made from polyester fabric with a stain-resistant, water-repellent DuraGuard coating, this garment carrier will keep the worst of the weather at bay.

Smooth, high-performance in-line skate wheels will allow you to transport your garment bag around the airport with ease, and the lightweight yet sturdy PowerScope Lite handle is height adjustable and will reduce wobble and tired hands .

Inside the bag, the padded straps are designed to carefully hold your clothing in place, while the built-in pockets keep your smaller items like ties, socks, and shoes organized and easily accessible.

It’s the lightweight construction of this bag that really sells it, though. Even when full, you’d struggle to make it feel at all heavy.

With ergonomic, high-tensile-strength zipper pulls and crash-proof corner protection, it’s also loaded with lovely little extras that you’d only expect to find on big-brand luggage.

• Smooth telescopic handle with 2 adjustable heights
• Suits and shirts for tall people would need folding at the bottom

6. Clever Travel Storage Solution for Your Clothing

Delsey Luggage Helium DLX Softside Spinner Garment Bag

Weight: 11.11 pounds

Dimensions: 23.75 x 23 x 10.5 inches

This classy-looking garment bag from Delsey is a sophisticated piece that’s worthy of its price tag. With lots of useful compartments to carry all of your belongings, this is an impressive bag that can carry everything you need for a few days away.

This bag is incredibly strong and durable, yet still manages to feel fairly lightweight . Easy to maneuver, the bag has dual-density, silent-core double-spinner wheels that glide along airport floors and busy sidewalks.

There’s a robust and adjustable handle for pulling your bag along with you that also has a non-slip grip. The bag opens like a book and has a clamping system that assures you that your garments won’t move in transit. There are also 2 shoe pockets and an additional 2 corner pockets for smaller items.

For easy access to items you might need in a hurry, there’s a separate front pocket that can carry your wallet, passport, cell phone, and other essentials. This is a great bag that offers smart storage solutions for your clothing.

• Spinner wheels are easy to maneuver
• No bottom handle for easier lifting

7. Tough Garment Bag Designed for Frequent Flyers

Samsonite Ascella 3.0 2-Wheel Garment Bag

Weight: 9.9 pounds

Dimensions: 20.5 x 24 x 9.5 inches

Samsonite’s reputation for toughness and high-performance materials goes toward protecting your hanging garments in this 2-wheeled, polyester garment bag. It has several pockets and organizers to keep everything in its place, including hanger bracket grips that allow 2 directions of hanging for double the capacity; 3 mesh organizational pockets, 2 mesh shoe pockets, and compression straps. An extender panel lets you carry around longer items.

The 2 spinner wheels are oversized and make for a smooth ride, while the soft-grip handle has several built-in stop points to suit a range of owner heights. A WetPak pocket keeps liquids contained and away from your precious suits and fancy dresses.

• Has a special pocket to keep liquids safely away from garments
• Heavy at around 10 pounds

Travel garments bags provide a simple solution to a big problem for frequent flyers. Investing in 1 of these can make a big difference to the impression you make at that big meeting or wedding.

Whether you invest in an executive-style rolling garment bag or a smart garment duffel with carry-on solutions, you’re making a smart decision.

Enjoyed this article and looking for other types of travel bags as well? Check out some of our other reviews:

• The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market
• The Best Laptop Backpacks To Buy for Travel
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Checked Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do you put a garment bag on a plane.

Garments bags will usually roll or fold and easily fit in the overhead compartments on a plane. Check with your airline what the carry-on luggage size requirements are to make sure your garment bag dimensions will be accepted.

Do garment bags prevent wrinkles?

No garment bag can ever guarantee that your clothes will be completely wrinkle-free. However, they will do a better job of preventing wrinkles than regular carry-on luggage will due to their dimensions and the way they fold.

What is the best carry-on garment bag?

Our favorite is the Modoker Carry-On Garment Bag. This 2-in-1 garment carrier and duffel bag is an excellent option for a weekend away where you need to look your very best. With the ability to fold and be carried like a regular shoulder bag, as well as hang upright to keep your clothes crease-free, it offers a lot of bag for your money.

Are garment bags allowed as carry-ons?

Most airlines allow passengers to bring 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item onboard, but all have different size restrictions. Check with your airline to ensure your garment bag adheres to these requirements before travel.

What is there to consider with travel garment bags?

• Size and capacity
• Compartments and organization
• Material and durability
• Wheels versus no wheels
• Handles and zippers

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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8 Best Garment Bags for Reducing Wrinkles

No more rumpled dresses and dress shirts.

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

Garment bags can take many forms, from shoulder-strapped to rolling to flat inserts — but regardless of the style, there's a few different reasons you might opt for a garment bag instead of a suitcase. They're ideal for keeping suits well-pressed and wrinkle-free in transit, and great for business trips where you might not need (or want) a full suitcase just for a couple days. And with all of the drama that comes with checked luggage getting lost, you might want one for special occasion dresses — like a wedding dress, a bridesmaid dress or a special uniform — so you can keep them near you instead of checking them.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Garment Bag

Away the centerfold garment sleeve.

Best Value Garment Bag

Matein large suit travel bag.

Best Garment Bag for Long Garments

Your bags travel garment bag.

Best Garment Bags for Short Dresses

Calpak compakt large garment bag.

Best Garment Bag for Frequent Fliers

Hartmann tweed legend voyager spinner garment bag.

Best No-Frills Garment Bag

Amazon basics carry-on garment bag.

Best Rolling Garment Bag

Briggs & riley 22" carry-on 2-wheel garment bag.

Best Compression Packing Cube Garment Bag

Eagle creek pack-it reveal garment folder.

After shopping our top garment bags for your trip, keep reading to learn more about what we look for in a top-performing garment bag as well as a buying guide from our fiber science and travel experts.

If you're checking a larger bag, a garment bag that fits inside of your suitcase instead of a carry-on is an option if you already have something you'd like to bring on the plane. The Centerfold Garment Sleeve from Away is designed to fit into their Bigger Carry-On, but it would be a great addition to any suitcase. It clips inside of luggage and has tiered loops to accommodate multiple hangers . It can also be carried if you prefer to not fold it up. When you reach your destination, unzip the bottom to allow your garment to fully hang instead of staying bunched up at the base. There's only two zippered pockets for accessories or other small items. The nylon is water-resistant, but not fully waterproof.

About the size of a briefcase, this compact garment bag has a strap across the back of the bag that you can slide over your suitcase handle so there's less for you to hold as you make your way around the airport. If you do choose to carry it, there's an adjustable shoulder strap as well. There's a front organizing pocket for easy access to smaller electronics like a phone and a tablet, making it a convenient carry-on bag . Unfolded, this water-resistant bag hangs at 47 inches, so it's too short for full-length dresses, but it's a great size for jackets, short dresses and dress shirts. The panel that flips out is also full of pockets for stashing jewelry, accessories, shoes and ties.

Long or voluminous formal dresses can be a real pain to travel with because they're so big and cumbersome. Not to mention, if you're traveling to an important event with a wedding or bridesmaid dress, you do not want to keep it in checked luggage, lest you be stuck in an airport — sans dress — at the customer service counter trying to track down your suitcase. For full-length dresses, you need a long garment bag to fit the entire garment without it bunching up and wrinkling at the bottom of the bag. This 72-inch-long garment bag has a 10-inch gusset so it can expand to accommodate styles with a particularly puffy lower half (like dresses designed with layers of tulle, crinoline or a train). Available in five different colors and patterns, the water-resistant polyethylene material will protect clothing from damage. Keep in mind that it is a pretty bare-bones garment bag, so there are no extra pockets or other bells and whistles like the other bags on our list.

Calpak finds a nice balance between functionality and fashion with unique styles that are well-made with plenty of features. The Compakt Large Garment Bag can either be carried on its own or it can be placed inside luggage and unpacked upon arrival. Made of water-resistant ripstop nylon, it's 48 inches long when unfolded, so it's a great size for short dresses , and there are seven pockets that fit two pairs of shoes and other accessories. Long dresses will hang out the bottom of the bag, but once the bag is folded up it will cover the hem. The Calpak garment bag comes six fashionable colors and prints that are mostly the same across their product line, so you can coordinate your luggage and bags to match, too.

Hartmann is definitely on the expensive side, but their classic nylon tweed fabric never goes out of style, plus it's treated to be water- and stain-resistant. But what's really great is the Tweed Legend Voyager Spinner has four spinning wheels so you get the ease of a spinner suitcase with the function of a garment bag to make whizzing through the airport terminal a breeze. There are plenty of compartments to keep organized, along with two triangle-shaped pockets to utilize the space by the shoulders of the garments. Hartmann is a top performer in our tests and it even landed as "best for frequent fliers" in our best luggage brands of 2023 . While we haven't tested this specific garment bag, we love their spacious interiors that are easy to pack and wheels that are smooth and comfortable to maneuver.

If you're looking for a no-frills, grab-and-go garment bag, this water-resistant Amazon Basics one is a great option. It comes with a shoulder strap for comfortable carrying and multiple pockets for shoes, undergarments and other items . There's also a front pocket for additional storage and a strap along the back for hooking on your luggage handle. In our testing, we've found the luggage from Amazon Basics to be easy to pack. While it might not be the best quality out there, you can't beat their price.

Briggs & Riley 22" Carry-On 2-Wheel Garment Bag

Most wheeled garment bags unfold from the top or bottom, so you end up with luggage that's wider than it is tall, which can get weird when trying to shove in an overhead bin (especially for airlines that are strangely particular about how you put bags up there). Briggs & Riley's 22" Carry-On 2-Wheel Garment Bag folds out from the side, so it's shaped like a regular suitcase — taller than it is wide . There are two sections, one for flat packing and one for hanging garments, with lots of little pockets in the unused space to make maximum use of the bag. While Briggs & Riley bags are pricey, they come with a lifetime guarantee that will cover all repairs if the luggage is broken or damaged. They have authorized repair centers to fix luggage, will repair or replace with the closest matching part and they even have DIY repair kits if you're feeling a little handy.

When you think "garment bag," the first thing that comes to mind probably isn't a compression cube, but this one from Eagle Creek is designed to compress your clothes to take up less space while keeping them looking sharp. The water-resistant polyester case comes with a folding board with printed instructions on how to fold dress shirts and slacks to fit into the bag and how to use it to reduce wrinkles . If you're using a duffle bag or a backpack, packing cubes keep all of your times organized, and with this one, now you can take your fancy threads in the duffle, too.

How we chose the best garment bags

To get a sense of what makes a good garment bag, our Textiles Lab pros weighed in using their years of expertise in their field. We combed through online reviews of the most popular garment bags on the market, considering material, size, extra features, durability and ease of use to determine top picks. This list includes our experts' top-tested picks, as well as popular products with rave reviews from brands we trust.

Are garment bags worth it?

Garment bags help keep your clothing pressed and wrinkle-free while traveling, so you can just take out and hang clothing once upon arrival. They're ideal for clothing you don't want to fold or roll into a suitcase, like a suit, dress shirts, dresses and skirts. Some are designed to be folded compactly and placed inside a suitcase, while others can be carried as luggage. Most bags will fold in half or thirds, but they are made with padded interior straps to keep clothes from shifting around in transit and prevent creases. Just be sure to lay garments completely flat before folding into a bag to help reduce wrinkles.

Garment bags can make a great carry-on when flying. However, it's important to note the garment bag's dimensions to ensure that it complies with the airline's listed size restrictions. If you're taking a short trip and you'll be bringing nice clothing, you can use a garment bag as a carry-on along with a small duffle as your personal item to save you the trouble of having to check a bag. Plus, anyone who's felt the pain of an airline losing a suitcase knows that when it comes to important items that can't be replaced— special clothing like a uniform, bridesmaid dress or wedding dress, for example — you might just want to go with a garment bag and carry that clothing with you at all times.

What to look for when shopping for garment bags

✔️ Size and shape: Garment bags are available in different lengths, so it's important to consider the linear dimension to ensure the garment bag is long enough to accommodate your clothing. Otherwise, if the garment bag's length is on the short side, the bottom of your garments may have to be folded or bunched at the base of the bag, which will increase the chance of wrinkling. Longer garment bags are great to hold formal dresses, jumpsuits or a full suit. For shorter clothing like tops, jackets and mini dresses, a smaller bag should work just fine.

✔️ Materials: Just like any travel bag, you want a style made of durable materials. If fabric denier is listed in the product description, the higher the denier, the thicker and stronger the fabric is. Nylon is known to be durable and water resistant while polyester is more affordable. Leather is a luxury pick that should last long term, but make sure to follow the care closely. Opt for water-resistant finishes too, especially when traveling with your favorite clothing items.

✔️ Features: To make the garment bag more comfortable to carry around, choose features like a padded shoulder strap, easy access handles and accessible front pockets to hold necessities. If you're considering taking a garment bag instead of a suitcase, make sure it has large enough pockets to hold any other items that you're packing (like shoes, accessories and undergarments).

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

During her time working at the Good Housekeeping Institute, Abigail Bailey has tested, researched and written about everything from Japanese knives to hammocks. She worked with Emma Seymour , a senior textiles product analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, to research this article.

Emma has been with Good Housekeeping for over three years, overseeing Lab and consumer tests for walking shoes , luggage , tampons , pillows , sheets , period underwear and more. She also has worked on multiple travel features on backpacks , travel dresses and packing cubes . With a degree in fiber science and apparel design from Cornell University, she has extensive research experience, particularly focused on athletic wear. As a lifetime sewer with previous product development experience, she has a strong fashion background with expertise in proper fit and construction.

Abigail (she/her) is product reviews writer who has covered everything from kitchen gear to mattresses and smart blinds. She graduated from Louisiana State University with a B.A. in creative writing and earned her M.S. in publishing digital and print media from New York University. She currently works at Wirecutter, but has also spent time on staff at Good Housekeeping and The Southern Review literary magazine. In her free time you can find her quilting, cross-stitching or trying to figure out how to squeeze one more bookshelf in her tiny apartment. 

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A Professional Packer Shares the 11 Best Carry-on Bags That Actually Fit a Week's Worth of Clothes — From $30

Never check a bag again.

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

There are some travelers who are completely at ease with bringing just two or three outfits on a trip to skip checking a bag . I am not one of them. I like to pack as many options as my carry-on luggage will allow. While this may initially seem to contradict my title as a professional packer — I’m the founder of the Just Packed travel site and corresponding newsletter — the two aren’t necessarily mutually exclusive. Instead, I define an expertly packed carry-on bag as one that contains everything that you may need on your trip (and still has the ability to close).

Before the actual packing process can begin, though, it’s critical to have luggage pieces that offer ample room to ensure its spot in the overhead bin or under the airplane seat in front of you. But, not every travel bag is up for the task. Over my years of research, both on the ground and in the air, these are the 11 roomiest carry-on bags that I've found. They include classic suitcases as well as travel totes, backpacks, and duffels that help you pack a week's worth (and even more) of clothes so you'll have everything that you need for your next trip.

Away Bigger Carry-on

In my line of work, I’m constantly testing different suitcase brands and styles. My 22-inch Away Bigger Carry-on has yet to be topped when it comes to how much it can hold. From the outside, it looks like a basic, albeit sleek , suitcase; there are no bells and whistles. That simplicity, however, is the key to its success. Every inch of the suitcase serves to get the job done (a.k.a. hold as much as possible). By using the interior compression system, I can fit about one week’s worth of clothes without trying too hard — but if I use a few of my tried-and-true packing hacks , I can make it work for a two-week trip.

It's also made with a polycarbonate hardshell, a sturdy material that I always look for when suitcase shopping because of its durability. Trust me, you'll appreciate it when your carry-on gets tossed around during takeoff and landing.

July Carry-on Pro

I might be loyal to my Away suitcase, but the 21-inch July Carry-on Pro recently caught my eye. It has a similar design, but it comes with a few more functional features. The front pocket can fit a 15-inch laptop and an iPad (although I tend to use compartments like this to hold a few items of clothing), and the Y-strap compression system helps keep the contents of the suitcase neatly packed down. I haven’t gotten a test to take mine out for a spin yet, but the luggage brand notes that it can hold six to eight outfits, or between five to seven days’ worth of clothing. 

Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner

If you’re looking for a more affordable carry-on suitcase, the highly-rated Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner might do the trick. Coming in at under $65 thanks to a limited-time deal, this best-selling carry-on is the perfect choice for anyone who wants a capacious bag but doesn’t travel enough to warrant one with a higher price tag. Several reviewers noted that it’s great for week-long trips with its expansion feature that adds 15 percent more packing space, the interior organizer, and the three smaller zippered pockets. 

MZ Wallace Deluxe Large Metro Tote

Overpackers who are actively trying to avoid bringing checked bags on their travels need the MZ Wallace Deluxe Large Metro Tote in their luggage repertoire. Not only is it, hands down, the most spacious tote that I’ve ever used, but it’s also pliable and filled with different pockets and compartments to keep everything organized in a designated spot. I think of it like a Mary Poppins-style bag. On a recent weekend trip, it served as my only piece of luggage, and I had no issue zipping it up while it held my pajamas, two outfits, a pair of sneakers, my laptop, a small toiletry bag, and a collection of other miscellaneous items (chargers, snacks, a hairbrush, etc). But when you're flying, use this as your personal bag along with your carry-on suitcase so you can get away with bringing more clothes on board. 

When buying a new travel tote to use as a carry-on, I always recommend paying close attention to how the bag is designed (and how it will keep your belongings secure). Does it zip, tie, or latch everything inside? The exact closure method, and how it’s implemented, can significantly affect how much can be carried inside. This one has a zip-top design, so I know that it will keep everything safe from spilling out if I put it in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of me.

L.L. Bean Medium Boat and Tote Zip-Top

The classic L.L. Bean Boat and Tote comes in a variety of sizes and colors, and there’s even the option to choose one with or without a zip-top closure. The extra-large tote is technically the largest, but I personally use the medium-sized zip-top version. Inside, I’ll fit my toiletry bag (which tends to take up too much space in my suitcase), laptop, chargers, a water bottle, and a smaller crossbody bag. I’ve also never had any issues fitting it under the seat in front of me on a plane, and it’s sturdy enough to stay upright during take-off or turbulence. 

Oeihuivt Weekender Bag

The Oeihuivt Weekender Bag is the more affordable twin of the steeper-priced duffel bag that I usually use. According to the brand, the bag can hold between two and four days' worth of essentials inside its six pockets, main compartment, and roomy shoe pouch. If I’m traveling with just a pair of shoes on my feet, I’ll often use the shoe pouch as a hack to store more clothes; it makes the perfect spot for my socks, Dopp kit, a sweatshirt, and a pair of jeans. 

Paravel Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

I always think of my Foldable Travel Duffel Bag from Oprah-loved brand Paravel as my “in case of packing emergencies” bag. On a trip to Jackson Hole last year, I knew that there was a possibility that I’d be leaving with a few more items than I’d arrived with — so I tucked this duffel into my suitcase to use on the journey home. It’s one of those bags that’s deceptively roomy, and it held the hiking boots, sneakers, puffer vest, and several sweaters that had been displaced from my suitcase by my new Wyoming purchases. In addition to being an M.V.P. for bringing back souvenirs, it can also be used as a tote when you're at your destination, and even a beach bag if needed. 

Bjlfs Weekender Carry-on

Some trips require a do-it-all kind of bag, one that can handle whatever you need it to hold. Enter the Bjlfs Weekender Carry-on. Its exact dimensions have it measuring in at around 10.7 inches by 22 inches by 7 inches, which means that it has more than enough room for a three-day weekend trip's wardrobe — and you’ll have no trouble fitting it in most overhead bins or under the seat in front of you should you use it as a personal bag. Interested in seeing how it would perform on a longer trip? According to one reviewer , they paired it with a small carry-on suitcase for an 11-day trip, and it was perfect.

Cuyana Classic Easy Zipper Tote

My vast collection of travel bags waxes and wanes on a regular basis, but there are a few extra-roomy styles that maintain their starting positions on my roster. One of those is my Cuyana Classic Easy Zipper Tote. The leather bag is a staple for work travel, and it holds more than you’d think upon initial glance. If you pair it with a carry-on for your next flight, you'll definitely be able to fit everything that you need for your trip. 

A foolproof way to wisely choose a spacious carry-on bag is to identify its purpose. As one of my allowed carry-on bags, this roomy tote is always reserved for my laptop, which means that it has to be strong and wide enough to hold my heavy, 16-inch MacBook Pro and my other essentials. I’ve gone on several trips where it’s managed to perfectly carry my laptop, a couple of books, an extra layer, a water bottle, and even a Dopp kit or crossbody bag.

Roam Continental Backpack

When I say that the Roam Continental Backpack holds just as much as a duffel bag, I mean it. It first accompanied me on a trip to Venice, and I was immediately blown away by the capacity of each compartment. There’s an exterior laptop compartment, which holds all of my chargers, a front pocket (and is great for snacks and smaller toiletries), and a large main compartment. The latter fit a pair of shoes, the rest of my toiletries, a light jacket, and a small purse. There are also two water bottle holders on the backpack’s sides; I used one for my Yeti and the other for a couple pairs of socks. 

Lo & Sons Large Rowledge Backpack

Lo & Sons

I’ve found that the Lo & Sons Large Rowledge Backpack is slightly less bulky than the above Roam style, but somehow, it’s almost just as spacious. If I’m using it as a secondary carry-on bag, the backpack always has extra room; if I’m bringing it on a short weekend trip, I typically don’t need to bring another bag. By using the rolling folding method, I can fit three to four outfits in the larger compartment, and the front compartment is perfect for a travel-sized toiletry bag and other essential accessories. 

Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag

This isn't a piece of luggage, but it's an essential item for making everything fit in a carry-on. There are a few things that I’ll sacrifice when packing — like extra pairs of shoes or an additional coat — but my beauty routine is not one of them. I’m a stickler for using my specific skin and hair care products, even while traveling, so I require a toiletry bag that can hold everything. The large Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag can carry all of my skincare, shampoo and conditioner, makeup, and other hygiene products. If it’s packed in my carry-on, I just have to make sure to use my TSA-sized products or transfer my liquids to my trusty Cadence capsules .

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12 Garment Bags to Make Sure You Travel in Style

There’s no reason to show up looking like a slob.

That’s where a garment bag comes in. A good one is going to keep your suits and dress shirts nice and crisp throughout your travels, so you don’t have to suffer through the indignity of the aforementioned situation. Available in hanging, wheeled, and carry-on options, the bag contains hangers and sleeves to easily transport your clothing wrinkle-free. It’s smart, simple, and almost entirely necessary. And you don’t just have to embark on business trips to wield the powerful piece. Even if you are headed on a quick vacation , a garment bag will keep you looking fresh all trip long. If you’ve been searching for a great garment bag, our travel-obsessed editors have found the 12 absolute best. Shop them here.

Best True Garment Bag

Away the garment bag.

Best Budget Garment Bag

Simple houseware 43-inch heavy duty garment bag.

Best Garment Duffel Bag

Halfday the garment duffel 45l.

Best Garment Duffel Upgrade

Lucchese cosimo garment duffel.

Best Affordable Garment Bag

Zegur carry-on garment bag.

The Statement Garment Bag

Mz wallace camo michael garment bag.

Best Garment Bag for Long Trips

Tumi extended trip 4 wheeled garment bag.

Best Designer Garment Bag

Gucci savoy garment bag.

Most Practical Garment Bag

Victorinox swiss army werks 6.0 garment sleeve.

Best Compact Garment Bag

Calpak compakt small garment bag.

Maybe you’re headed on a quick two-day trip or just need to transport a suit. If that’s the case, Away makes a sleeve to fit two or three garments.

We love that it’s water resistant and features a few extra accessory pockets.

Hey, for $15, we’re not going to find a whole lot wrong with this one. It’s a bit wide, so you can fit multiple outfits in it. There are accessory pockets. And it’s made from a durable and water-resistant polyvinyl. It did the job for us.

We’ve already done a full review of this guy , so let’s keep it short. It’s the perfect garment duffel for a weekend away or a destination wedding. Toss a suit or two in there, zip it up to form a structured bag, and pack the rest of your clothes.

For a much more luxe version of that Halfday bag, Lucchese has one that’s handmade in Italy and fully leather. Almost the exact same size, with the exact same function. Yes, it’s expensive, but the leather quality, hardware, and craftsmanship are second to none. It’s one of our favorite travel products and an heirloom-worthy bag.

If you want a garment bag that just does the job, this is the one for you. It’s standard but efficient, and it has more than 6,600 five-star reviews on Amazon.

A blue-camo facade in MZ Wallace’s classic quilted nylon construction gives a unique edge to this garment bag. It’s got double handles and an outside zip pocket for easy functionality.

No one makes rich-guy luggage like Tumi, so it’s only natural that its garment bag is a spotlight piece. Fitting up to six suits, this has capacity unlike any other, packaged into a wheeled design. There’s also a plethora of pockets—including a zip shoe one—for extra organization and storage.

We love this bag for business travel, but it’s great anytime you need to pack multiple formal outfits, too.

Bearing the house’s iconic monogram, Gucci’s garment bag is leather-trimmed and lined in cotton linen. Like the rest of the brand’s printed accessories, it has an air of “Fuck you, I’m cool.” But honestly, when you hold the bag in your hand, you feel the craftsmanship. This isn’t just the designer markup.

Simple and smart, this garment sleeve from Victorinox has a straightforward design for effortless packing. Two front zip pockets, large mesh and lined compartments, and a padded shoulder strap are a few features that make this a solid choice.

The collapsibility of this bag is designed to fit inside a carry-on, but it can be used on its own, too. It’s lightweight, water-resistant, and a great buy for the price.

Hartmann Metropolitan 2.0 Garment Sleeve

Hartmann is known for its checked luggage, but its garment sleeve is not to be missed. It folds neatly, and its compact design contains interior pockets to maximize space.

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Spinner Garment Bag

This simple spinner from Samsonite is also a favorite in the garment-bag space. The collection originally launched in 1958, so you know the updated version can stand the test of time.

Why Trust Esquire?

Because no one else has the taste that we do. No one else travels like we do . We’ve seen all seven continents, and someone from the Esquire editorial team is always in the air. We’ve tested every travel product out there, and we only recommend the things we would buy with our own money.

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The Best Garment Bags for Looking Good On-The-Go

From hanger bags and rollers, to two-in-ones, we've got the right bag for every kind of traveler.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Inexpensive Roller

Travelpro maxlite 5 lightweight carry-on rolling garment bag.

Bargain Buy

Zegur carry on garment bag.

Modoker Convertible Garment Bag with Shoulder Strap

Lightweight

Degeler carry on garment bag.

For Weekends Away

Tumi alpha 3 garment 4-wheel carry-on.

Samsonite Armage II Wheeled Garment Bag

Classic Style

Longchamp boxford garment cover.

MZ Wallace Michael Garment Bag

Hybrid Style

Ralph lauren leather-trim hybrid garment duffel.

This sturdy garment bag offers many of the same features as far more expensive bags (built-in pockets, padded interior straps for wrinkle resistance) at a fraction of the cost.

"This suitcase was the perfect carry-on for packing nice dresses for a trip," writes a reviewer , noting that it "delivered my clothes perfectly to my destination. With plenty of zippered compartments inside and out and smooth wheels, this bag has quickly become my new favorite carry-on!"

Dimensions: 16" L x 22" W x 8.5" H

Material: Polyester

Get your business trip on track with this best-selling garment bag, which features hanging space with three buckle straps to keep your wardrobe neat and tidy, plus four zipper pouches for accessories and a business-minded front pouch with space for pens, cards, a laptop, and your phone.

According to an Amazon reviewer , "I was able to fit 3 suit jackets, 3 shirts and 3 pair of pants....a bit over packed for a trip but the bag handled it well." The buyer also noted that the exterior pocket is "massive and can hold all the little extra items...chargers, books, pens, etc. I put my dress shoes in the internal pockets and they came out fine as well."

Dimensions: 22.99" L x 4.02" W x 22.01" H

Think of this convertible garment bag as a two-for-one: store all of your hanging clothes in the interior pocket, then zip up the sides to create a weekender-style tote you can stuff with all of the rest of your necessities.

"This is a perfect bag for short trips, especially summer trips when clothes aren’t as bulky," writes an Amazon reviewer . "You can hang lots of clothing and still have room to put stuff inside like a duffel bag. All the pockets inside are very useful! Easy to use with wheeled luggage by sliding it on the handle for ease. Would definitely purchase again!"

Dimensions: 22.8" L x 11" W x 11.8" H

Material: Polyester Fiber/Jacquard

If you're craving an all-in-one solution for your garment bag, this featherweight version is riddled with pockets and pouches that let you store everything from your shoes to your laptop and also comes with a sturdy titanium hanger specially designed to keep the shoulders of blazers in shape.

"You can definitely see and feel how well it is made," explains a reviewer . "The high quality especially shows in every button and zipper. The bag is easy to handle and you can tell that they really thought about each detail to make it as practical as possible. It makes traveling more convenient."

Dimensions: 21" L x 21" W x 1" H

Material: Velocity Nylon

For durable convenience, this ballistic nylon garment bag takes the cake. Carry-on sized, it boasts plenty of room for all of your travel essentials and easy-rolling dual spinner wheels so it can keep up wherever you go.

"I was able to get three suits, shirts and shoes all packed in this bag plus some workout clothes," says a buyer. "If you are in a plane or hotel and need dress clothes, you can’t go wrong with this bag."

Dimensions: 22" W x 15" H x 9" D

Material: Ballistic Nylon

Breeze through a week away with this wheeled garment bag. The check-sized option offers ample space for suits, dresses, and other hanging attire, pouches for shoes and toiletries, and comes with an over-door hanger so you can hang the whole bag upright in your closet, no unpacking necessary.

One fan raves: "It fits in the overhead bin on domestic AA fights. Easy to pull along (but no swivel and difficult to push), lots of storage. I used for a 4 day trip where I needed 4 dresses/suits, 4 pairs of shoes and workout clothes. I I checked it one time and it held up great."

Dimensions: 17.5" × 10" × 22"

Material: Polyester, Recyclex

Bring some classic style to your luggage with this canvas and leather garment bag with a handy exterior pouch for accessories and essentials.

Dimensions: 23.2" L x 22.8" H

Material: Polyester Canvas

This quilted garment bag from fan-favorite handbag brand MZ Wallace comes with a sturdy set of double handles so even your weightiest clothes won't cause a problem.

One reviewer says: "It is perfect. Lightweight and big enough for quite a few clothes-especially a couple of suits."

Dimensions: 22.01" L × 2.99" W × 39.02" H

Material: Nylon

Though it looks like your standard duffle, Ralph Lauren's leather-trimmed garment bag unzips at each side to fold completely flat, so you can stow all of your hang-ables inside its sections and also make use of it's interior space for makeup, shoes, and all of your other goodies.

Dimensions: 15" H x 21.5" L x 9" D

Material: Polyester/Leather

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

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The Best Carry-On Luggage

By Kit Dillon

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

Traveling well is not always easy. Keeping your suitcase with you when you fly not only protects your belongings from loss or damage but may help you avoid extra fees as well.

If you decide to do so, you need a good carry-on bag.

Over the past 10 years, we’ve handled, tested, and traveled with 67 bags from more than 35 brands, and we remain convinced that the Travelpro Platinum Elite offers the best balance of value and quality for most travelers.

It packs five days’ worth of clothes into standard US carry-on dimensions 1 and has premium touches you might expect from a $600 bag at about half the price.

It’s a bag that you can rely on for life, even if it’s damaged by airlines —a rarity at any price.

Everything we recommend

Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner

The best soft-sided carry-on.

This spinner carry-on offers the best balance of size, value, reliability, and durability, plus high-end details. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

Buying Options

Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard

A bit more capacity and extra wheel durability.

This two-wheeled carry-on bag isn’t as maneuverable, but it offers slightly more space, a garment folder, and larger, more durable wheels.

Away The Carry-On

The best hard-sided carry-on.

This great-looking and relatively resilient piece of hard-sided luggage has top-of-the-line components—including wheels as smooth-rolling as any we’ve tested.

Away The Bigger Carry-On

Slightly more room, but you might get checked.

With more capacity than Away’s standard carry-on, this suitcase is sized appropriately for most flights. On smaller planes, though, you may get gate-checked.

Budget pick

Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Lightweight and appealingly inexpensive.

Remarkably well priced for a reputable brand, this is an ideal lightweight pick and provides many features of luggage costing nearly twice as much.

Upgrade pick

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

A soft-sided carry-on that fits more in less.

This carry-on bag offers superlative build quality, plenty of expandable room, and a uniquely effective compression system. It’s a buy-it-for-life suitcase.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ 2-Wheel Expandable Carry-On

More room, bigger wheels, less maneuverability.

If you’re willing to give up maneuverability for more space and bigger wheels, this is also a great option.

Carl Friedrik The Carry-On

A more luxe hard-sided carry-on.

Luxury touches and a strong polycarbonate and aluminum design give this bag a standout look with exceptional feel and performance. It does cost nearly $200 more than the comparably sized Away bag, though.

Yeti Crossroads 22″/35L Wheeled Luggage

A bag built for tough conditions.

A polycarbonate back and rugged wheels make this design suited for rougher travel over difficult surfaces. However, it has a limited warranty, and it’s somewhat unwieldy to handle.

What to consider

Four-wheel bags, aka spinners, are easier to maneuver down tight airplane aisles, but two-wheel bags will always be more durable .

Hard-sided looks better to most people, but soft-sided luggage withstands the bumps and knocks of travel for longer .

Plenty of reputable brands offer lifetime warranties; it’s generally worth paying a little extra for the peace of mind .

Depending on where you travel, you might need to look for specialty luggage sizes .

We’ve also included picks that stood out for their form and individual functionality: an upgrade with best-in-class compression, a pick made of polycarbonate , an upgraded hard-sided case with latch closures and an aluminum frame, a rolling soft-top hybrid , and a budget pick that’s also the best ultra-light suitcase we can find.

Travelpro’s Platinum Elite line of luggage is still our top pick after 10 years of testing. It addresses the concerns of most travelers for an affordable price while offering the best warranty against potential airline damage in the industry (as long as you register the luggage within 120 days of purchase, which you can do in minutes).

The Platinum Elite features smooth-rolling, replaceable wheels, as well as solid and comfortable telescoping handles and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid internal chassis. Travelpro also provides a full catalog of other replaceable parts . Instead of chasing the smart-bag moment, Travelpro added an exterior pocket with a USB pass-through extension that lets you insert your own battery pack for charging your phone. And weighing less than 8 pounds when empty, the Platinum Elite is dead in the center of average weight for bags this size.

In our view, soft-sided luggage lasts longer and shows less wear, but if you prefer the look of a hard-sided bag, Away’s The Carry-On is our choice. Like our other picks, this bag stands out for its high-end components: YKK zippers, smooth-running wheels, and a well-braced handle. Its strong but flexible polycarbonate shell shows scratches—however, after seven years of using the Away Carry-On, our testers have found that it is capable of enduring most of the trials of travel with fewer knocks than other similar models we’ve tested.

Away also makes a slightly larger version of the same model: The Bigger Carry-On . It conforms to carry-on size for most major airliners, but you might be asked to gate-check it on smaller planes.

Similar to our soft-sided picks, this Away bag is backed by a limited lifetime warranty. And though the coverage doesn’t explicitly protect against airline damage, it does apply to any damage that an airline could possibly dish out—specifically, but not limited to, the shell cracking or wheels breaking off.

Some companies have tried to shave off a few pounds from their standard luggage designs to make so-called ultra-light luggage. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner is the best of these bags we’ve seen, and it comes with the pedigree of our top pick but not quite as strong a warranty.

The Maxlite 5 is just over 2 pounds lighter than our top pick—that’s the weight of two or three pairs of jeans. It’s not a huge difference, but if you have trouble lifting luggage over your head and prefer an easier-to-manage suitcase, the Maxlite 5 may be your choice. This bag is also the best one we’ve found under $200, with almost all the benefits of luggage nearly twice the price.

For the more frequent flyer who is willing to invest in a higher-quality bag, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On . Every detail of this bag, from the zippers to the wheels to the wrinkle-resistant suit compartment, is made to the highest standards, and it has a higher proportion of usable space than any other spinner bag we tested.

Briggs & Riley boosts this extra capacity with a ratcheting compression system that easily presses an entire extra outfit (if not more) into the same external dimensions as most other carry-ons. It’s simple, impressive, and unmatched by any other brand’s compression system.

The Expandable Spinner version is also the only spinner luggage model we tested with a built-in garment folder, which helps shirts and pants stay wrinkle-free if you pack them well. If things go awry, Briggs & Riley has a catalog of replaceable parts and a global network of repair centers , as well as a reliable lifetime warranty covering repairs for airline damage.

For some people, Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On may be worth the extra cost. Behind the maturity of Italian leather accents and polish of higher-end Hinomoto wheels, the Carl Friedrik Carry-On bypasses the biggest compromise in most polycarbonate designs: the stitched-in zipper. Incorporating an aluminum frame around the center of the case and two latch locks, it feels comfortingly secure and well structured where other luggage tends to sag or bend away.

There’s a potential catch, however: The flex in a polycarbonate design (and most luggage, incidentally) is its strength. The more robust a piece of luggage becomes—by replacing, for instance, a zipper with an aluminum frame—the greater the chance that if something hits the case hard enough, the frame can bend or break. That said, you need to hit a frame like this with an extreme amount of focused force for that to happen. And Carl Friedrik provides a lifetime warranty that appears to cover airline damage in the event that an airline doesn’t compensate you within 14 days.

The Yeti Crossroads 22”/35L Wheeled Luggage represents the best of a relatively niche type of luggage design. Call it a hybrid model—a blend of a soft-sided luggage on top and hard-sided luggage on the back—that lends itself to fairly specific circumstances. It’s ideal for tough roads, broken streets, and slamming your luggage into uneven curbs with abandon. Do most people need this kind of luggage for their day-to-day travel? Absolutely not, and it can feel heavier than it really is. But if you do, this is the best there is—at least for the moment.

The Yeti Crossroads has everything you might expect from a brand that has built its reputation for over-the-top toughness and durability. The two heavy-duty wheels are among the largest and broadest that we’ve seen. Externally, Yeti blends a polycarbonate shell back with a water-resistant 700-denier nylon front and waterproof zippers. However, Yeti backs its luggage with only a three-year warranty and no mention of airline damage. That’s very limited protection, especially for the conditions this bag was designed for and definitely in comparison with the standards that our other picks set.

The research

Why you should trust us, how we picked and tested, our pick for the best carry-on luggage: travelpro platinum elite, our pick for the best hard-sided carry-on luggage: away the carry-on, budget pick: travelpro maxlite 5 carry-on spinner, upgrade pick for the best carry-on: briggs & riley baseline essential, upgrade pick for the best hard-sided carry-on: carl friedrik the carry-on, also great for tough conditions: yeti crossroads 35l wheeled luggage, other good carry-on luggage, what to look forward to, the competition.

I’ve been covering luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade and have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. Over the years we’ve also spoken with plenty of experts: flight attendants for major airlines, product designers and creative directors for luggage and gear companies, and travel and gear writers. My conversations with these people have helped shape our coverage, and we owe much to their collective knowledge.

In the 10 years we’ve been covering this category, luggage has evolved, and so has our thinking about what makes the best carry-on for most people. After spending well over 200 hours doing research and interviews and easily twice that time conducting hands-on testing, we’ve seen a few truths become clear. First, at a certain threshold—roughly over $200—most luggage is fine. It will more than likely get you from point A to point B without incident many times a year for many years. What distinguishes great luggage from everything else is mostly an attention to detail—the quality of a bag’s handle, its wheels, the frame, and stitching—and a company’s guarantee that it will stand behind its product.

Every year we try to refine our testing and find new ways to consider what it means to be the best luggage. We’ve weighed and measured suitcases, comparing our results with company claims. We’ve calculated true internal capacity with hundreds of Ping-Pong balls 2 and some decently complex math for a writer to scratch out. We’ve packed and unpacked more bags than I care to remember. We’ve studied and compared wheel bearings, wheel sizes, pocket counts, pocket quality, the curious subtleties of garment bags that will (or more often won’t) keep your clothes wrinkle-free, the strength of warranties, and repairability.

We believe that any maximally sized carry-on should be capable of holding enough clothes to last you five days with room to spare for miscellaneous necessities. Most years we aim to have two testers, one male and one female, pack two bags individually as if headed to the same wedding. 3 What we included isn’t representative of a family traveling or a couple splitting a bag, but we erred on the side of bulky, and we hope it gives you a clear idea of how much of your own stuff these bags will hold.

We looked at how each bag loaded. Was there an easy way to keep smaller items (such as socks and underwear) organized? Did it have compression straps to keep things in place? Were the straps thick enough to avoid creasing the clothes? Just how much would the bag compress? How much room was left over? Once packed, was the bag prone to tipping over?

Over the years I’ve torn bags apart to see how the frames were put together, taken apart wheels, dismantled handles, and more or less treated luggage as poorly as one person could. I’ve wheeled loaded bags around many neighborhoods, looking at how well each bag rolled and how well it handled broken sidewalks, uneven pavement, grass, bricks, dirt, and curbs. I’ve dragged bags up and down two flights of concrete stairs, noting how easy this task was and how much damage the bags sustained. For our finalists, I’ve repeated the torture test along a second, even rougher route because I like the sound that polycarbonate luggage makes when it bounces down cavernous stairwells.

In fall 2023, we asked a panel of paid testers with a wide range of body types, dexterities, and mobilities to examine our picks and share their perspectives. We’ve incorporated their feedback in this review.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner is our pick for a soft-sided carry-on; if you need a little more room, we also recommend the Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard .

It has a history of great performance. Travelpro’s Platinum Elite line has been our top pick for almost every iteration of this guide because it addresses the concerns of most travelers for an affordable price: In addition to smooth-rolling, replaceable wheels, it features solid and comfortable telescoping handles and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid 7.8-pound internal chassis. Travelpro backs it all with a lifetime warranty that covers airline damage and shipping to the repair facility (as long as you register the luggage within 120 days of purchase). Additionally, Travelpro supplies a full catalog of other replaceable parts .

It moves well across most surfaces and through most situations. The spinner bag’s configuration stands out in particular because of its MagnaTrac wheels, which magnetically snap into a forward position when the bag is moving. The small tracking assistance makes a large difference when you’re navigating the Platinum Elite through a crowded airport or down a busy street. It also has an easy-to-use, removable garment bag. After years of testing, we think the superior maneuverability of spinner luggage, along with improvements in manufacturing processes, makes four-wheel bags a better choice for most people. However, if you prefer slightly more packing capacity (the equivalent of squeezing in two more sweatshirts), larger wheels that run more smoothly over rough terrain, and a more protective built-in garment folder, 4 you may appreciate the two-wheeled 22-inch version of the Platinum Elite. One of our paid testers, who’s 6-foot-6, told us that although he could see the appeal of a spinner, “I would still choose the two-wheeler. It has a little more space, and when you’re my size, packing is just so horrible.”

It’s sized to maximize your space, but you have options. Measuring 23 by 13.5 by 9 inches, the Platinum Elite carry-on bag (in either wheel configuration) hits the upper margins of actual carry-on size limits and could get you gate-checked by an overzealous agent. However, it fits into most standard-size baggage caddies at check-in, including that of American Airlines and United Airlines. I’ve personally traveled with Travelpro carry-ons this size for more than 45,000 miles spread across 50 flights, from regional to long-haul to international routes, and I’ve never had an issue fitting within gate-side luggage sizers. If you’re nervous about getting caught at the gate or often fly in very small regional planes, Travelpro makes a 20-inch Platinum Elite as well as a slimmer international size, but they hold less (naturally) and lack a suiter insert.

It keeps clothes compacted but not creased. Inside, the Platinum Elite has a pair of tie-down straps and two broad panels with pockets that cinch down, similar in design and function to what you’d find in much more expensive Briggs & Riley luggage . Compared with the simple tie-down straps you often find in cheaper luggage, the panels do a great job of keeping things compacted without creasing clothes—a problem we’ve encountered in numerous other bags we’ve tested. Beyond that, the Platinum Elite’s internal organization system is about average. It will be familiar to anyone who has used a suitcase before, which means there’s no learning curve for optimizing the storage capacity. One long mesh pocket sits on one of the bag’s sides, and a smaller removable transparent plastic bag sits on the other side for easy TSA inspection of toiletries.

It’s tough yet flexible. The exterior is made of a hard-wearing nylon fabric, a key feature of all the bags we’ve tested. It hides scuffs and scratches, and it’s much more versatile than hard-sided bags. An expansion zipper lets you increase storage by about 30% in a pinch—although the bag is no longer carry-on compliant at that point. We prefer to use the expansion zipper as something of an ad-hoc compression system: We unzip the expansion zipper while packing the bag and then zip it at the end, tamping everything down tight. The Platinum Elite carry-on also has a variety of convenient exterior pockets, including two in the front, suitable for a sleep mask and other small miscellaneous items, and one on the side for a battery, though it can fit a bit more if necessary. It also has an accordion pocket on the front for magazines and electronic tablets.

It’s well balanced and spacious. This luggage has an 1,856-cubic-inch interior, which we measured using hundreds of Ping-Pong balls . In real-world terms (the needs of Ping-Pong champions notwithstanding), the Platinum Elite swallowed up five days’ worth of clothes with no problem and had a good deal of room to spare—and that’s without our resorting to the expansion zipper.

It has an excellent warranty. Should anything go wrong, you can take advantage of Travelpro’s generous lifetime warranty, which covers airline damage . The sole other company we’ve seen offering this extensive a warranty is Briggs & Riley, whose carry-on suitcases start at about $500. Travelpro bags have owner-serviceable parts and multiple repair centers . To get repair service, you can either drop the bag off at a repair center or ship the bag to Travelpro, the cost of which the company will cover. Keep in mind that the warranty doesn’t cover cosmetic wear.

Travelpro has a history of fixing production errors remarkably quickly. In 2019, we noticed a small uptick in Wirecutter reader complaints about zipper tabs breaking. We reached out to Travelpro, and a representative told us that a production error expanded the capacity of the front pocket of the Platinum Elite; this allowed travelers to overpack the pocket, which put excessive strain on the zipper. Travelpro identified and fixed the issue before it had reached the threshold of more than a few comments online.

Dimensions: 23.5 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 7.8 pounds Volume: 46 liters

How the Platinum Elite has held up

After nearly a decade of testing the Platinum Elite line of bags from Travelpro, we have yet to encounter a single serious issue. The fabric exterior brushes off scrapes and is easy enough to clean. Simply, it is a remarkably built bag that continues to travel well, year after year.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though the Platinum Elite rolled well in general, we are still concerned when dragging the bag up stairs. Some of the other bags we tested had long plastic bumper strips running most of the way up the length of the bag; this Travelpro model’s skid plate isn’t as big or as protective. I haven’t had an issue, but if you’re particularly rough on your luggage or uncomfortable lifting the bag over curbs or up stairs, it’s something to be aware of.

• In 2018, Travelpro added a USB-A pass-through cable to the Platinum Elite as a way to compete with so-called smart bags. We like the battery pocket, but the built-in cable itself, which routes from the pocket to a USB port less than 6 inches away, is an unnecessary item, which at best adds a potential point of failure to the bag—USB cables do not last forever. Does it ruin the bag? No. Is it a feature? Not really.

If you prefer the look of hard-sided luggage or the security of knowing that you can’t overpack your suitcase, Away’s The Carry-On is the carry-on we recommend. If you want to maximize your available carry-on space, it also comes in a slightly larger size: The Bigger Carry-On .

It can take wear and tear. Most travelers are still better off with one of our soft-sided picks than a hard-sided carry-on; soft-sided luggage shows less wear and typically lasts longer than hard-sided luggage. But the Away Carry-On’s wheels and zipper are as well made as those of our soft-sided picks, and its polycarbonate showed fewer scratches than that of hard-sided competitors.

We’ve tested the Away Carry-On for six years, traveling with it ourselves across the country and lending several units to testers and frequent travelers to see how they enjoyed using the bag. Its polycarbonate feels similar to that used on more high-end (and significantly pricier) suitcases such as the Rimowa Essential Cabin , which is more than three times as expensive.

You have options if you need extra space. Away makes a similar model of suitcase with an expandable zipper, The Carry-On Flex . The Flex is the same bag as the standard Carry-On except for the expanding center zipper and the price (it’s about $50 more). Personally, I’m not a fan of expanding zippers on suitcases. It feels like just one more thing to break. But some people may prefer having the extra flexibility.

It feels great to use. The bag itself feels good in the hands, and the wheels are noticeably better than those on any of the hard-sided competitors we tried. Away also uses YKK zippers, outclassing our top pick in that regard (Travelpro moved to Supra zippers in 2015). At this point, we’re pretty comfortable saying that years of debate over the best zipper are largely redundant, but YKK still sets the standard.

Imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Away has sparked more imitators and outright duplicates than any other brand in the past decade, in part due to its appeal with younger travelers. I’ve thought about why, and as best as I can guess, a simple polycarbonate cube dripped in limited-edition soft hues does exude a certain calm; the fact that some of those same colors also coat the exteriors of pills ending in suffixes -ax and -il is not, one assumes, accidental.

It has a great warranty. The Away Carry-On is backed by a limited lifetime warranty that protects against defects and parts breaking. Though the warranty doesn’t specifically mention airline damage, the damages it does list—cracks or breaks in the shell, wheels or handles becoming unusable, zippers that don’t work, fabric tears that render any pocket unusable—basically outline anything an airline could possibly dish out.

Dimensions (for The Carry-On): 21.7 by 14.4 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 7.5 pounds Volume: 40 liters

• The Carry-On’s sleek style comes at a cost: Its polycarbonate shell is ultimately more likely to break than the nylon fabric of our other picks.
• It lacks certain amenities, such as external pockets and a suiter, that our top picks have.
• The clamshell design, which splits down the middle and opens into two parts, can make the bag frustrating to pack and unpack. Packing cubes help, but after years of packing and unpacking soft-sided luggage with a single lid, I personally find a clamshell design to be more finicky when packing.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner is one of the lightest pieces of luggage we’ve tested, at a great price.

It’s lightweight. We have a hard time imagining how anyone could make a suitcase much lighter than this without breaking certain laws of physics. A few years ago, I took apart a Maxlite suitcase to see how the internal frame was built. What I found beneath the fabric was a clever lattice of plastic supporting the frame, which offered the best balance between weight-saving and structure.

For some people, especially those with limited upper-body strength, a lighter bag—even by just a few pounds—may be easier to lift or manage. That said, most people don’t need extremely light luggage, but just to pack less. For all the innovative design, the Maxlite 5 shaves only 2.4 pounds off the weight of our top pick. That’s the equivalent of a couple of pairs of jeans.

It’s inexpensive. My general advice to friends is to spend more than $200 but less than $500 to get good, if not great, luggage. The Maxlite 5 is the one piece of luggage I’ve found that breaks that rule. You can usually find it for about $150 or less, which is a remarkable price considering the bag’s quality.

Simple is good. This model doesn’t have any real bells or whistles—no battery pass-throughs or magnetically tracked wheels, as with our other Travelpro picks. Instead you’ll find two simple front pockets, a few well-placed handles, and a cavernous main compartment with a couple of pockets and two light straps to hold your stuff in place.

It comes from a trusted brand. We haven’t covered, examined, and interrogated a single luggage brand at Wirecutter for as long as we have Travelpro. For a decade, Travelpro has done a premier job of maintaining trust with its customers and with us—we’ve watched the company make small changes in design, catch flaws quickly, and address warranty concerns promptly. This is not something we say lightly: Travelpro is a name you can trust.

Dimensions: 23 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 5.4 pounds Volume: 46 liters

• The Maxlite 5’s warranty isn’t as robust as that of our top pick: Manufacturing defects in the wheels, zippers, and handles are covered for as long as you own the bag, but airline damage and shipping to a Travelpro repair center are covered only for the first year. (And you do need to register the bag.) Considering that this bag costs half the price of the Platinum Elite, this makes sense, but it’s something to be aware of.

If you’re a frequent flyer and willing to invest in higher-quality gear, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner (also available in a two-wheeled version with more capacity).

It’s the best of the best. Every detail of this top-rated bag, from the zippers to the wheels to the wrinkle-resistant suit compartment, is made to the highest standards, and we found that it had a higher proportion of usable space than any other spinner bag we tested. Briggs & Riley keeps its design consistent, adding, at most, small improvements such as this year’s upgraded lifting handle. Our 6-foot-6 paid tester pointed out that the Baseline Essential’s handle extended an inch and a half farther than that of the Travelpro Platinum Elite, which made it less likely to hit his heels as he pulled it.

Although the wheels don’t snap into alignment, they are exceptionally smooth-rolling and easy to maneuver. If you fly more than 25,000 miles per year, it’s worthwhile to invest in luggage that goes beyond merely being sturdy and actually improves your overall travel experience. That’s why we’ve been recommending it since we first covered this topic in 2014. The Baseline Essential is one of the best carry-on luggage options available today.

Its compression system is truly a marvel. The most ingenious part of the Baseline Essential bag is its CX expansion and compression system. Pull upward on two plastic handles inside the bag, and you can extend its depth a full 2.5 inches. Load the bag as full as you need to, and zip it closed. Then you push down on the bag, which compresses it as a clip mechanism secures it in place. Unlike other expansion systems, which are either open or closed, this one locks into incremental positions. It’s a unique design and very satisfying to use.

It’s the easiest to pack. Briggs & Riley placed the tracks for the Baseline Essential handles on the outside of the bag, which allows for a flat surface in the interior of the bag, with no small crevices to work around for simple packing. And in our tests, after packing 10 bags and trying to figure out strategies for each nook and cranny, packing on a broad flat surface felt like a luxury. According to our measurements, the bag, unexpanded, offers 1,905 cubic inches of storage room (and that accounts for the space occupied by the wheel wells and such). Expanded, it can stow 2,110 cubic inches. That’s remarkably efficient for a bag that does so much. All of these features add up to a carry-on that is easier to pack than any other bag we tested.

The Baseline Essential spinner is also the only spinner luggage model we tested with a built-in garment folder. It’s similar to the folder in Travelpro’s two-wheeled Platinum Elite bag, and that’s a good thing. It’s easy to pack and has an anchor point for hangers. Each of the three folds has a bit of padding that helps to keep a suit from pinching onto itself and creasing, though much of that depends on how well you pack. You can fit a week’s worth of clothes in the Baseline Essential, including some puffy gear for colder weather. A wide, wrinkle-free tie-down system completes the package.

It’s understated. On the outside, the Baseline Essential is pretty unremarkable. There’s nothing eye-grabbing about the bag, which is good if you’re trying to avoid being gate-checked (or having it stolen). Its outer, nylon fabric seems to be of a tighter weave than that used on the other bags we’ve tested. We also noticed a robust feel to the zippers, which are a self-repairing type made by YKK.

Similar to our top pick, the Baseline Essential includes a charging pocket. However, Briggs & Riley skipped the internal USB wiring, instead opting for a simple pocket arrangement (video) on the back of the bag for discreetly storing a charge pack and your phone. It’s an elegant solution.

It comes with an excellent warranty. All Briggs & Riley bags come with a lifetime warranty that covers any damage to the “functional aspects” of the bag, even if caused by an airline (like Travelpro, Briggs & Riley does not cover cosmetic wear or cleaning). Although Briggs & Riley handles warranty-covered repairs at no extra cost, you do have to pay to ship the bag to the company to carry out any repairs; it will ship your bag back to you for free. Or you can drop off the bag at one of the many repair centers . Briggs & Riley emphasizes that returning your bag to you in its original condition, even after repairs, is not always possible. The bags are easy to service and repair, so you can also order the parts you need and replace them yourself at home.

We’ve put in the miles, and the Baseline Essential is in a separate league. Over a five-year period before the pandemic, Wirecutter founder Brian Lam carried a two-wheeled Baseline Essential carry-on while traveling 150,000 miles and farther. After considering all the bags in our test and logging an additional 40,000 miles with a similarly priced bag by Tumi, he was convinced that this model is the best for anyone who’s always on the move. “I love this bag. It carries so much,” Brian said. “Sometimes I check it. Sometimes I carry it. It always fits.”

Dimensions: 22 by 14 by 9 (expands to 11.5) inches (HWD) Weight: 10 pounds Volume: 37 liters (expands to 48 liters)

• Despite the plastic shielding, the exposed rails on the exterior could use more protection. While dragging the bag up stairs (which we don’t advise doing), we felt more scraping than we’d like.
• At first glance, the handle feels too loose for a roughly $700 bag. We spoke to Briggs & Riley representatives, and they explained that this is a deliberate choice: The looser tolerances allow for the handle to retract by itself when you click its button, without your having to force it down. In practice, this is very helpful for scaling stairs and could save you some hassle in tight quarters, such as in the aisle of an airplane.
• At 10 pounds, the Baseline Essential is the heaviest bag we recommend. In this price range, weight often equals durability, which equals quality. But if you’re uncomfortable with a heavier bag, this isn’t the best pick for you.

Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On is an impressive polycarbonate case that improves in areas where most other companies tend to cut corners.

It’s robust and durable. It improves the usual hard-case design primarily by replacing the zipper with an aluminum frame sealed with two metal latches incorporating TSA locks. This trim makes the case feel far more robust, which is a very satisfying feeling when you’re wheeling luggage around an airport.

Clasping shut an aluminum frame with a metal lock is pleasing—it feels like closing a safe and locking it tight. The polycarbonate shell has an equally rigid feeling but exhibits plenty of flexibility under strain. Although it’s difficult to compare polycarbonates between brands, higher-end polycarbonate feels dense to the touch even as the material flexes; in this piece of luggage, Carl Friedrik offers impressive quality.

Additionally, the Carl Friedrik Carry-On has YKK zippers internally and Hinomoto spinner wheels from Japan—both considered the top of their class.

It’s thoughtfully styled. The soft leather accents and bolted frame all have a certain maturity that’s often lacking in other, competing cases. This look carries to the inside of the luggage as well. A simple gray polyester lining accompanies two sets of compression straps and a removable compression pad, which has a zippered pocket.

It has an excellent warranty. As you might expect for the price, Carl Friedrik backs up its luggage with a lifetime warranty that protects against airline damage (assuming the airline hasn’t responded to your request for compensation within 14 days).

Dimensions: 21.6 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 8.6 pounds Volume: 40 liters

• This is a brand-new pick—so far we haven’t found any flaws, but we’re keeping an eye on the latches. Luggage latches are small, complicated mechanical devices that have a myriad of ways to fail.
• The handle feels just a touch loose, which, as with our upgrade pick from Briggs & Riley , can be a benefit. It can also sometimes be a hazard. Again, we’ll continue testing it.

Hybrid designs like the Yeti Crossroads 22″/35L Wheeled Luggage aren’t for everyone, but if you like the flexibility of a soft-sided luggage with the hard-hitting ruggedness of a polycarbonate back and two large fixed wheels, then this bag is just right.

It’s made from tough materials and easy-to-repair parts. Yeti has a reputation for using tough, sometimes cutting-edge, materials in all its gear. The Crossroads is no exception. The 700-denier nylon is one of the better nylons we’ve tested—tightly woven and exceptionally durable. (Denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric.)

The Crossroads comes in only a two-wheeled design, which is usually able to withstand more damage than a four-wheeled design. The wheels are also easier to service on the road and often replaceable. 5

It’s well organized. It includes a front panel organizer, similar to that of modern laptop backpacks, with two slots for your laptop and tablet plus a mesh pocket for spare gear. Fully packed, it still has room for a few magazines as well, if you like. Internally, the soft top has a zippered main compartment with a decent amount of packing space, as well as two mesh organizing pockets.

It’s a pleasure to pack. As the Crossroads is built around a molded polycarbonate base, the entire suitcase becomes, in essence, a large tray to pack and then zip shut. It’s a very satisfying design—easier to manage than many of the clamshell designs that are currently popular. Yeti’s packing cubes are designed to fit snugly in the Crossroads’s main compartment, and the bag does come with one small cube. But if you choose these, you’re spending a premium for additional packing cubes when almost any packing cube will work.

Dimensions: 22 by 14 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 8 pounds Volume: 40 liters

• We’d love to see a better warranty. Three years is very limited when compared with other luggage brands selling similarly priced suitcases—especially for a bag that claims to be as tough as the brand’s reputation.
• Occasionally, Yeti’s tough-gear reputation veers almost into absurdity, as with the inclusion here of self-sealing zippers on a bag that isn’t actually waterproof—merely weather resistant. They’re top-of-the-line zippers. But self-sealing zippers can be hard to operate and require regular lubrication, which most people aren’t used to providing.
• The front-facing laptop organizer is woefully unshielded. If you’re traveling with a laptop, place it deep within the bag if you want it properly protected.
• The bag feels heavy—by our measurements, it weighs about a half pound more than Yeti’s 7.5-pound estimation. It’s not the heaviest of our picks, but something about the weight distribution and shape of the bag makes it feel heavier when you’re swinging it around.

If you need a hard-sided budget bag: Look at the Gregory Quadro Hardcase 22″ , an unexpectedly high-quality suitcase from an outdoor-gear company. Gregory offers a lifetime warranty with service and repair. Although the warranty doesn’t explicitly mention airline damage, Gregory’s good reputation speaks for itself in this matter. However, the Quadro Hardcase is a pound heavier (at 6.5 pounds) and about $60 more than our budget pick.

If the Away Carry-On is sold out: Consider the Monos Carry-On Plus . Picking between these two models came down to splitting some very fine hairs. Both use YKK zippers. Both have lifetime warranties. The handles and interiors are almost identical. Monos even hides the stitching that attaches the zipper to the polycarbonate frame, which is a nice aesthetic touch. The difference came down to the Away Carry-On’s wheels, which spun just that much more freely in our testing, and the underside handle, which made it easier to pull out of overhead bins. And we’ve tested the Away Carry-On for longer. However, if it’s unavailable, the Monos model is a good, nearly identical substitute.

If you want a bag made of recycled materials: We suggest the Paravel Aviator Carry-On . Paravel is attempting to design luggage with recycled materials and some environmentally minded transparency to the company’s production methods. However, you pay a premium for the effort. Quality-wise, the bag is similar to our other hard-sided picks, for about a hundred more dollars. And much of the Paravel branding is built on carbon offsets, which we are deeply skeptical of (though we wish they worked).

If you’re an infrequent adventurer: Try the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller , which could almost be an also-great pick under our hybrid pick . It’s cheaper, has a better warranty (but no explicit coverage for airline damage), and is made from recycled materials. However, the overall build quality is wanting. For example, the polycarbonate shell doesn’t fully cover the tubes for the extendable handle as it does with our hybrid pick. It seems an oversight for bags that are built to knock around.

If the best possible suit-packing experience is all you want, and money is no object: The Vocier C38 Carry-On Luggage is worth a look, despite a few flaws and an $800 price tag. The C38 takes a unique, fold-free approach to packing clothes. Rather than folding garments in on themselves to fit in the bag, it bends the suit around the outside of the luggage frame in a U shape. This packing method creates no creases and therefore no wrinkles. The case is protected by a limited lifetime warranty that doesn’t cover airline damage.

We hope to take a look at the European brand Floyd , which is currently popular on Instagram. At first glance, it’s another piece of luggage looking to appeal to a younger mass audience. But the easy-to-replace polyurethane wheels and bearings—similar to skateboard wheels—do have “user-serviceable parts inside” curb appeal.

We’re currently testing Level8’s Voyageur series of luggage, which features an extra-wide handle. It’s a design trend we’re starting to track with a few lesser-known brands (and, incidentally, a Louis Vuitton case costing several thousand dollars). A wide handle should do two things: It should free up a little more space inside the luggage, and it should improve handling.

Lastly, we’re considering expanding our coverage to include equipment cases like those made by Pelican . Though their appropriate use is very specific, when you need to travel with high-end gear or fragile valuables, Pelican cases more or less set the standard.

Soft-sided carry-on luggage

Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Roller Bag : We’re generally fans of Cotopaxi’s Allpa line, but this two-wheeled bag falls short. Specifically, the bottom of the bag is split by the zipper, which gives the bag an unstable feeling when it’s standing upright.

Eagle Creek Tarmac XE 4-Wheel 22″ Carry On Luggage : If this bag were about $150 cheaper, it would be a good price for the quality. We like the recycled materials, but the bag lacks framing.

Solo Re:Treat Carry-On Spinner : I appreciate any bag made entirely out of recycled materials, but this model (from a brand owned by the same company that manages Briggs & Riley) felt awfully flimsy. Even with its five-year warranty, I just don’t trust that this bag can go the distance.

Thule Subterra : The clamshell design—similar to the ones you find on hard-sided bags—makes this bag difficult to close if you’re trying to fill it to its full capacity. It just isn’t as easy to use as our soft-sided picks.

Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller : The balance on this bag was decent, and it stood up well unloaded or loaded. Its wheels had a cheap ball-bearing rhythmic chatter, though, and the abundance of zippers and internal compartments made it tedious to pack.

Tumi Aerotour International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On : At about half the price, this would be a great bag. But paying nearly $700 for a five-year warranty and a bag that doesn’t do nearly as much as a Briggs & Riley suitcase seems a bit silly.

Hard-sided carry-on luggage

Amazon Basics 24-Inch Hardside Spinner : This bag is a surprisingly good carry-on for about $90. However, its ABS plastic shell is not as tough as a polycarbonate shell. It’s worth investing more in your luggage—the bag you choose will last longer and work better.

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On : The Arlo Skye carry-on is a decent piece of luggage, but it’s hard to square the bag with its cost: $200 more than our pick from Away .

Away The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition : 10 pounds! At this weight, you’ve lost a quarter of your allowable luggage weight to the suitcase alone, unpacked. And it’s nearly as expensive as our upgrade pick, with a much less satisfying compression system.

Briggs & Riley Torq and Sympatico : Though these collections seek to solve a different problem, neither is as impressive as the Baseline series.

Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Luggage : We preferred sturdier polycarbonate shells over Calpak’s blended ABS polycarbonate shell. Also, the bag’s handling felt jittery against normal airport floor surfaces.

Delsey Rempart Expandable Spinner Carry-On : At just around $200, the Rempart is a decent budget option. However, the external styling (like layers of pressed sheet pans) is an odd choice. It has some practicality, but only if you’re stacking identical Delsey cases one on top of another, which might happen, I suppose, at some point … maybe.

July Carry On : In the lineup between July, Monos, and Away, July falls just short. We appreciate the lifetime warranty, YKK zippers, and flexible but dense-feeling polycarbonate. But the overall design doesn’t do much to improve on the category (as the Monos bag subtly does).

Level8 Road Runner Pro Carry-On 20″ : This is potentially a decent budget pick at just around $200. But the one-year warranty and the somewhat fiddly TSA lock and front latching panel give us pause.

Lojel Cubo Medium : Although we liked the uncommon top-loading design, the internal organization of the lid made packing this carry-on difficult. We also weren’t impressed by the zippered expansion system, which made the suitcase feel bulkier than our picks.

Lojel Voja Medium : An odd suitcase, this would be a great children’s suitcase or a budget pick—especially if it were under $200. But its current price is steep for a polypropylene blend with a couple of latches.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Chris Ryan.

Airline policies vary, but a general rule is that the bag must be under 45 linear inches—the total sum of the bag’s length, width, and depth. Here’s the current sizing breakdown among the major US airlines:

• Alaska Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• Allegiant Air: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• American Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches (the dimensions of soft-sided garment bags are allowed to add up to 51 inches)
• Delta Air Lines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• Frontier Airlines: 24 by 16 by 10 inches (and less than 35 pounds)
• Hawaiian Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• JetBlue Airways: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• Southwest Airlines: 24 by 16 by 10 inches
• Spirit Airlines: 22 by 18 by 10 inches
• Sun Country Airlines: 24 by 16 by 11 inches
• United Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches

We double-checked the measurable packable space of our top picks against the manufacturers’ listed volumes by filling each piece of luggage with hundreds of Ping-Pong balls: 144 Ping-Pong balls weigh exactly 0.5 pound, and each Ping-Pong ball represents approximately 2 cubic inches (PDF) . After weighing each piece of luggage three times to establish an average empty weight, we filled the bags as full as we could with Ping-Pong balls and measured the change in weight. For every half-pound increase in weight we estimated 288 cubic inches of packable space.

His five-day travel kit included the following:

• 1 two-piece linen suit on a hanger
• 1 dress shirt on a hanger
• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 pair of khakis
• 5 medium-weight to lightweight shirts
• 1 heavy sweater
• 2 flannel shirts
• 5 pairs of boxer briefs
• 5 pairs of sport socks

Her five-day travel kit included the following:

• 1 dress on a hanger
• 1 blazer on a hanger
• 1 blouse on a hanger
• 1 pair of heels
• 2 pairs of jeans
• 1 pair of light sneakers
• 5 pairs of underwear and 3 bras
• 1 pair of yoga pants
• 1 flannel shirt
• 1 hair dryer
• 1 curling iron
• 1 jewelry/makeup kit
• 3 pairs of sport socks
• 4 lightweight shirts

You use a garment folder by laying a suit or dress across the panels, folding them into themselves, and zipping up the inner compartment. A folder should be wide enough that a suit isn’t cramped, and it should include hanger straps (which should fit around everything, even larger plastic hangers) to keep things from shifting around too much. Some folding boards have 0.75-inch-diameter foam rolls in them to help prevent creases along the packed clothes’ fold lines. When you aren’t traveling with fancy clothes, you can take the whole apparatus apart and use it as luggage dividers in the main bag itself, or leave it at home, converting the suit/dress compartment into an extra packing cube.

Yeti doesn’t seem to have an easy way to order replaceable wheels. But the 3.5-by-1-inch wheels are fairly common, and we’re looking at the best possible alternatives.

Meet your guide

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

Further reading

Wirecutter’s 100 Most Popular Picks in September 2022

by Wirecutter Staff

These 100 useful things were the most-purchased Wirecutter picks in September 2022.

The Best Luggage Tags

by Geoffrey Morrison

We chose five luggage tags that will help you identify your belongings in a sea of similar suitcases.

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

by Kit Dillon

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is our backpack pick for most travelers. We also have picks for other travelers, including those who want to carry a bit more.

We’ve Loved Luggage From Travelpro’s Platinum Elite Line for a Decade. Here’s Why.

Travelpro Platinum Elite is our most loyal travel companion.

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

By Madison Flager

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

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

What we considered:

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

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

What size can a carry-on bag be?

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

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

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

What can’t I take in my carry-on?

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

Are carry-on bags free?

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

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines

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

• United Airlines

Top recommendations:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Carry-On Garment Bags for Wrinkle-Free Travel in 2023

Does this happen to you? No matter how carefully you fold and pack your clothes, they still come out of the suitcase looking less than presentable.

While most of us today travel with wash-n-wear clothes, not everyone can afford to travel with a scrunched-up wardrobe. Especially if you are on business, or need to look great when you arrive at your destination.

This is where the best carry-on garment bag can save your clothes and your trip from disaster. Especially when combined with a great travel steamer !

At A Glance: Our Top Picks

• best rolling garment bag Travelpro Crew Versapack Carry-on Rolling Garment Bag Jump To Review
• best garment bag Samsonite Leverage LTE Garment Bag Jump To Review
• Affordable Choice Zegur 40-inch 3 Suit Carry-On Travel Garment Bag Jump To Review
• Lightest Option Delsey Paris Helium Garment Bag Jump To Review

The following are some of the best options out there to help you carry your best clothes or suits on your next trip. Ranging from bi-folds, tri-folds through wheeled garment bags, there are lots of choices.

Top Product Overview

Best carry-on garment bags, travelpro crew versapack carry-on rolling garment bag.

The “10” in this bag means it’s on its 10th version, which means there are many aspects and features of a carry-on garment bag that they’ve perfected.

The Travelpro Crew Garment Bag  is one of the most stable wheeled garment bags out there. And absolutely great for business trips!

Its Powerscope telescopic handle is designed for comfort and minimizes wobble while on the move. It also locks mid-way so business travelers of different heights can use this bag comfortably.

There are two leather handles for hauling the bag. The top handle is for carriage while the bottom handle is for pulling the bag from the overhead bin.

Much thought has also been put into the material. It is 100% nylon with a protective Dura guard coating for water resistance. The interior is treated with a waterproof coating to keep all your garments safe. It’s also treated with Duraflex technology, making the bag almost indestructible and impossible to break into.

There are two external pockets for small items or jackets and documents. The main compartment has a metal hanger clamp at the top, in between two removable mesh pockets for small items and accessories. There are adjustable hold-down clamps and a foam-padded roll bar to keep suits in place and wrinkle-free. An extension panel also folds out of the bag for longer garments.

The inside of the lid has organization pockets and a compression strap to keep clothes on that side from falling out.

You’ll definitely have no problem bringing this as a carry-on as the Travelpro Crew 10 is most commonly used by airline cabin crew, and for good reason. At 22 x 14 x 9 inches, it will fit most size limitations for carry-on luggage. The biggest drawback of this bag is the weight at 10 lbs. It’s a hefty number and can be limiting especially on budget airlines.

• Bag of choice of cabin crew and frequent travelers
• Excellent build, quality, and materials
• Many organizational pockets
• Heavy at 11.6 lbs, but the features may make up for it

Product Information

• Material: Nylon
• Weight: 11.6 lbs / 5.2 kg
• Dimensions: 9 x 22 x 15.8 inches

Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry-On Upright Garment Bag

Most wheeled garment bags you will find are made with a horizontal build, which makes the Briggs & Riley garment bag  unusual. The upright build is extremely useful, however, when you’re rolling your bag through the plane aisles and avoid hitting the seats. This is, after all, a post about carry-on garment bags.

The aluminum telescopic handles are fixed outside of the bag so it doesn’t eat up packing space. The durable ballistic nylon case also protects your items even if your bag ends up being tossed around.

There are two compartments that both open clam-shell style.

The front compartment holds the suits and is a tri-fold garment bag. It has restraining side panels to keep your suit in place. It can fit up to two suits (or three for the ladies).

There is a wally clamp to hold your own wire hangers. There are two removable zipped mesh pockets in the corners, good for underwear, socks, and a belt.

The main compartment has space for other items and clothing. It can also be opened while in the upright position. Side gusset straps keep the front section from opening all the way and spilling your items. A pair of adjustable restraining panels with two small interior pockets built-in keep all your clothes from falling out if you open this compartment while the case is upright.

Half of the lid of this compartment features a zipped mesh pocket for soiled garments and the other half features two elastic top slip pockets for shoes.

If you still need more space, there are two more pockets on the outside of the bag. It also has a Smartlink  strap that you can attach  to another wheeled bag if needed.

• Many compartments and pockets for organization
• One of the more lightweight options
• Upright orientation makes it easy to roll the bag through-plane aisles
• Smartlink strap lets you manage more than one luggage
• Lifetime Warranty
• The upright position makes the spacing awkward with the garment bag. It takes a little bit of getting used to before you learn to maximize the space well.
• Material: 100% Ballistic Nylon
• Weight: 9 lbs / 4 kg
• Dimensions: 21.9 x 13.9 x 9.25 inches

Samsonite Leverage LTE Garment Bag

Samsonite is well-known for its durable and long-wearing luggage products, so this is one of the most popular wheeled garment bags on the market.

This Samsonite Garment Bag is 100% polyester for a water-resistant finish. It measures 11.8 x 22.5 x 22.2 inches, which is beyond the size restrictions of some airlines. However, most of the time I am sure you will at least get it in the overhead. And many reviewers have stated the bag will still fit in the overhead bins.

At 13.2 lbs, this is also one of the heavier wheeled garment bags online. With these dimensions, it can be a bit awkward. It’s too big for ultra-light business travelers and too small for heavy packers. However, for some, it might still be the perfect travel garment bag!

A full zippered panel opens up to reveal the main compartment of the bag. The top part holds a hanger hook. There are zippered mesh corner pockets on either side for smaller items or accessories. There is a handy shoe compartment below the suit and smaller interior pockets at the top for things like ties.

The second portion of the fold-out can also accommodate neatly folded shirts, to help you start fresh and fast when you arrive. And the 3-panel suiter in this bag is perfect for those who want to arrive wrinkle-free and start work in a flash.

Tech-wise, Samsonite has also included a dedicated USB port so you can charge on the go too. Handy if you ask me!

• Durable and relatively lightweight
• Water-resistant
• Expandable case with spinner wheels
• Has extender panel for longer clothing
• Bump in the center limits packing space
• Heavy compared to others in this review
• Material: 100% Polyester
• Weight:13.2 lbs / 5.9 kg
• Dimensions: 11.8 x 22.5 x 22.2 inches

Zegur 40-inch 3 Suit Carry-On Travel Garment Bag

If you’re a heavy traveler, it’s always good to invest in a sturdy suit carry-on bag that will last for years. That doesn’t mean, however, those good products are always expensive.

The  Zegur Garment Bag  is a steal, especially for the quality and organization you get with just this one bag.

This is another sleek and slim design, this bag will fit in any overhead bin. Again, make sure to check your airline restrictions on size limitations as the dimensions of this bag is not standard for all. But, it weighs a mere.

The dual-fold bag has several internal zippers and pockets to keep everything organized. It maximizes storage capacity for the interior of the bag and expands storage options with a big external pocket big enough for folders and electronics.

A cloth panel fully unzips to reveal the garment compartment. It has a hook at the top for the hangers, with three dual-buckle straps to keep the garments in place and wrinkle-free. Because there are no thick materials for the interior, the bag is flexible enough to hold up to three suits.

If it doesn’t fit your travel needs, they offer a 100% money-back guarantee Even better is the bag is made of 1800D Polyester making it sturdy and waterproof.

This bag is very well thought out.

• Waterproof, lightweight, and durable
• 100% money-back guarantee
• Awkward sizing that may not suit all airline regulations
• Material: 1800D Polyester
• Weight: 2 lbs / 0.91 kg
• Dimensions: 23 x 22 x 4 inches

Delsey Paris Helium Garment Bag

A non-wheeled option is great if you need to be careful of weight limits for carry-on baggage. And who better to make it than the famous French luggage brand – Delsey Paris!

This garment bag is sleek and streamlined and is easy to carry around for long periods of time. It may seem too slim at 52 x 22 x 3 inches, but it’s very well designed and still fits in all the clothes you need plus miscellaneous travel accessories .

Portability is one of the key advantages of this bag are the organizational features. The front of the bag has a zippered pocket for smaller and quick items. The main compartment for your garments features a hanger clamp and adjustable bar/compression straps to keep your suits in place.

The garment bag folds out via the snaps at the top, which keeps it all in place. The first thing you notice inside is various large zippered compartments to store your goodies. There’s also a removable, padded shoulder strap for hands-free travel.

The main issue with this bag is you won’t be able to complete your look because there are no spaces to keep your shoes. While it’s possible to fit those in, you’ll have to have your own pouch or carrier for it (or throw them in your other luggage).

However, ignoring that issue, this is the perfect lightweight garment bag for business travelers, or your friend’s next wedding!

• Sleek and slim
• Can be unrolled to a full-sized garment bag without unpacking
• Well-designed and portable
• No space for shoes
• Unused space above the garment shoulders
• Weight: 2.4 pounds / 1.1 kg
• Dimensions: 52 x 22 x 3 inches

AmazonBasics Premium Garment Bag

AmazonBasics is of course Amazon’s own brand that is aimed at providing quality at affordable prices. And this bi-fold garment travel bag doesn’t disappoint.

It has ample room for up to 3 suits, with tie-downs to help keep things in place while on the go. It also comes with roomy interior pockets for all those extras that you will want to bring along. Even enough room for shoes. And because the pockets are made from mesh, you won’t have to worry about letting your clothing breathe.

Amazon has also provided pockets for those smaller items, in case you don’t have another bag for them. So, things like pens, smaller electronics, etc are stowed safely while you are traveling, but are still relatively easy access.

And best of all, it comes with Amazon’s limited one-year warranty should anything go wrong.

In terms of carrying, it comes with a decent carry handle but lacks a shoulder strap which is handy if you have other luggage with you.

• Budget-friendly open
• Adequate room for multiple suits
• Only really good for business travel with suits, so you will need another bag with this one
• Lacks a shoulder strap
• Weight: 2.8 lbs / 1.27 kg
• Dimensions: 43 x 20 x 3 inches

Important Features Of a Carry-On Garment Bag

When choosing the best carry-on garment bag you need to keep in mind a few specific features. The following is a quick guide to help you pick the best option for you.

In general, garment bags are not meant to be carry-on. Make sure you pay extra attention to the size of your bag and the size restrictions of the airline. The most common size limit for a carry-on is 22 x 14 x 9 Inches, so this is a safe bet. Some airlines will allow a bigger bag by an inch or two, but if you tend to fly with different airlines, better stick to the general size.

Garment Bag Type

There are bi-folds, tri-folds, and wheeled bags. While all these garment bags mainly keep everything wrinkle-free, it’s still up to your personal preference.

Bi-Fold Garment Bags – As the name suggests, this kind of bag folds in two, right down the middle. This means fewer creases, while still saving space. However, it is a compromise, as they are usually longer than tri-folds. However, once you hang them at your destination, the folds usually reduce. Especially once you wear them.

Tri-Fold Garment Bags – These garment bags fold twice, into three, to save even more space. However, as mentioned above, this means you get one more major fold. Whether this is an issue for you or not, I can’t say. Just be aware of it.

Non-Wheel Garment Bags – The non-wheeled bags are usually handy if you don’t want to unpack and just hang the garment bag right away. They are also considerably lighter, which will come in handy especially on budget airlines.

Wheeled or Rolling Garment Bags – A wheeled garment bag will give you a bit more space and comfort since you don’t have to carry it around. But they may not always be the best carry-on luggage for suits.

What’s the best Carry On Garment Bag for you?

The best travel garment bag for you depends on where you usually go. A big differentiating factor for these bags is the size and weight measurements. It also depends on how many suits you’re supposed to carry.

Frequent flyers and international travelers will never go wrong with the  Travelpro Crew 11 Garment Bag . It’s beyond sturdy and secure. You can bring this as a carry-on or toss it in with checked luggage without a problem. It also has more than enough space for your suits or formal wear plus extra clothing that are not as sensitive.

• Extension panel accommodates longer dresses and suit jackets. Metal hanger clamp helps secure hanging garments. SUPRA Zipper heads are engineered to resist damage from daily use and abuse.
• Hold-down straps keep contents in place. Foam padded roll bar helps prevent wrinkling.

A great affordable purchase is the  Zegur Garment Bag . It’s a lesser-known brand but delivers the same quality and performance. It’s also one of the most lightweight bags, which will save you from paying excess baggage on budget airlines.

• HYBRID SOFT-BODY GARMENT BAG WITH SEMIRIGID STRUCTURE PIPING: Zegur's over-shoulder clothing carrier offers stress-free protection for your business trip, wedding, or weekend getaway. Multiple interior zipper pockets hold everything from suits and dresses to shoes and ties. A spacious exterior pocket provides easy access to electronics and documents
• KEEP CLOTHES CLEAN AND UNWRINKLED: Our heavy-duty hang-up bag protects clothing items large and small. An interior dual buckle holds your garments in place and partners with our unique piped design, ensuring that items don’t crease or crumple during travel

For something in-between, the Riley Upright Garment Bag is an excellent choice. Rolling it between aisles will never be a problem. It has enough space for your suits and clothes for a quick business trip. It can also double as your general travel bag even without the suits and formal wear. The dimensions are also within the limits of most airlines around the world.

• Upright Wheeled Garment bag: Offering the versatility of a packing case in this 2-in-1 wheeled, upright carry-on, featuring a garment section that holds 1-2 suits and a packing compartment ideal for clothing and accessories
• Durable Construction: Made with ballistic nylon outer fabric that resists wear, moisture, dirt and abrasion. Outsider handle provides greater interior capacity and a flat interior surface for packing so clothing arrives wrinkle-free

Frequently Asked Questions

Do garment bags actually prevent wrinkles.

Of course, no bag can completely prevent wrinkles. However, a carry-on garment bag does a great job of reducing wrinkles by keeping things flat and reducing the number of folds in your clothes. Keep in mind, a Bi-fold will have one less fold than a tri-fold too.

You can also take a travel steamer with you if you really want to ensure wrinkle-free garments.

How Many Suits Fit In A Garment Bag?

This is very dependent on the size of the garment bag you buy and you should definitely read the specifications and reviews before you buy one. In general, smaller/slimmer bags only fit one size, while more sizeable bags can fit two or three. So, you have options, you just need to pick the right one for how many suits you plan on carrying.

Do Garment Bags Count As Carry On?

In almost all cases, garment bags are considered a carry-on by airlines. As such, be aware of your carry-on limits when you are taking one.

One way to avoid this issue is to squeeze it into your carry-on bag if possible. However, in many cases, this will defeat the purpose of a carry-on completely. In that case, if you want to keep your garment bag as a carry-on, you may have to check in something else

Where Do You Put a Garment Bag on a Plane?

Carry-on garment bags usually easily fit into the overhead bins of most planes. In the case of a smaller inter-city plane, you may want to check ahead of time with the airline. Some have specific hanging space in the front of the plane. However, often this is reserved for first-class or business class passengers.

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Home > Guide To The Best Travel Products > 13 Best Garment Bags For Wrinkle Free Luggage In 2024

13 Best Garment Bags For Wrinkle Free Luggage In 2024

Suppose you’ve never managed to arrive at your destination without looking crumpled and having to iron your clothes once you arrive at your hotel. In that case, you’re missing one essential piece of your travel kit – a carry-on garment bag!

With this list of the best carry-on garment bags, you’ll never again arrive at your destination looking crumpled and have to iron your clothes ever again.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

What Is A Travel Garment Bag

A carry on garment bag is basically what it says on the tin. It is a large garment bag you can take into the plane’s cabin as part of your hand luggage, and inside, you can store clothes. Certain compartments and hangers within the bag so your clothes don’t get crumpled or mixed up.

This is the ideal garment bag for business travelers, but overall, they’re an excellent idea for those trying to travel light and not pay inflated check-in baggage fees.

1. World Traveler 40 Inch Carry On Hanging Luggage

Top weekender bag.

The World Traveler Collection offers a stylish garment bag with lightweight and durable features for dress clothes during vacations or getaways.

Product details

• The World Traveler Collection offers a stylish garment bag suitable for travel
• The bag is lightweight, weighing only 0.6 Lbs
• It is made of durable 600D Polyester material
• It has interior pockets and a front zippered pocket to keep you organized
• The bag features a metal hanging hook and silver pewter hardware ideal for hanging in your hotel room
• It is available in multiple colors and prints
• The travel dimensions are 24″ L x 1″ W x 20″ H, and the open dimensions are 24″ L x 1″ W x 40″ H

2. Mercury Tactic Gear Code Alpha Hybrid Garment Bag

Best travel garment bag.

The Garment Duffle Bag is a versatile and rugged bag perfect for military or business professionals. It combines the convenience of a duffle bag with the functionality of a garment bag, offering easy access to pockets, crease-stop padding, and skid-resistant pads.

Garment Bag Details

• The Garment Duffle Bag is suitable for military or business professionals on the go
• It is made of sturdy 600 denier polyester and can withstand the demands of travel
• The bag can function both as a carry-on and a garment bag
• It has various pockets, including two slash-end pockets and two large front pockets, for easy organization and access
• The bag features crease-stop padding to keep formal wear or uniforms wrinkle-free
• It has skid-resistant pads to prevent slipping
• The bag comes with a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap for convenience

3. ZEGUR Suit Luggage Bag Carry On

Best carry-on garment bag.

• Zegur’s garment bag is a hybrid soft-body bag with a semirigid structure and piping
• It protects clothes from wrinkles with its interior, dual buckle, and piped design
• The bag has multiple interior zipper pockets and spacious exterior pockets for easy access to electronics and travel documents
• It fits in the overhead bin, has comfort handles, an adjustable detachable shoulder strap, and can be stacked on rolling wheeled luggage
• The Zegur suit carry-on garment bag features premium Japanese zippers, a rugged 1800D Polyester material, and a waterproof exterior
• It offers a maximum storage capacity and serves as a combination closet and briefcase for travel
• A 5-year warranty backs the bag and it has an attractive exterior look with an elegantly imprinted full interior lining

4. Mercury Tri-Fold Garment Bag

Best compact garment bag choice.

• The tri-fold shoulder bag is suitable for small business trips or carrying garment bags
• It is made from denier polyester with black-colored hardware and zippers
• The bag features a garment compartment for clothes and a large front pocket for toiletries and accessories
• It comes with a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap and a luggage tag
• This compact garment bag is designed to save space in the car, plane, or train travel
• The item is not discontinued
• The bag’s dimensions are 22.25 x 45 x 2.75 inches, weighing 3.2 pounds

Brands We Use And Trust

5. uniquebella carry-on garment bag with shoe pouch, great garment bag for suits.

• The garment bag is suitable for travel and can keep suits or dresses clean and wrinkle-free
• It has a large capacity and multiple interior zipper pockets, leaving you plenty of room for extras
• It has extra features not all carry on garment bags have – a separate shoe pouch to keep clothes to keep your pairs of shoes separate and organized
• The bag is scratch-resistant, waterproof, and made of high-quality material
• It features a detachable shoulder strap, a trolley sleeve, and a zipper buckle for convenience
• The design is ergonomic and lightweight for ease of use during travel

6. WallyBags Luggage 48″ Extra Capacity Hanging Suit Bag

A good garment bag for also packing shoes.

• The WallyBags 48″ Deluxe Tri-Fold Travel Garment Bag is made of durable polyester
• It has three pockets for toiletries and accessories
• It has a handy shoe compartment
• The WallyLock hanger clamp can hold up to 6 hangers and keeps clothing neat and wrinkle-free
• The bag can be used as a carry-on and fits in an airplane’s overhead compartment
• It is suitable for both business and leisure travel
• WallyBags offers a 10-year warranty on their products
• WallyBags is an American company based in Maryland

7. Tumi Alpha 3 Carry On 4-Wheel Garment Bag

• WallyBags’ Deluxe Tri-fold Travel Garment Bag is designed for easy packing and wrinkle-free travel
• It can be used as a carry-on bag and fits in airplane overhead compartments
• The bag has three large pockets for shoes, toiletry kit, and accessories
• It is suitable for both business trips, road trips, or leisure travel
• The company is American and operates in Maryland

8. Travelpro Crew Versapack Rolling Garment Bag

• The garment bag has features like an extension panel, hanger clamp, hold-down straps, and a padded roll bar to keep clothing secure and prevent wrinkles
• It offers packing flexibility with large zippered panel pockets and corner accessory pockets
• The bag is made of high-density ballistic nylon fabric with DuraGuard coating, making it resistant to stains and abrasions
• It has an aluminum extension handle with multiple stops for users of different heights
• The bag has high-performance spinner wheels for smooth rolling and long-lasting durability
• Overall dimensions (including carry handles and wheels) are 15.75 in x 22 in x 9 in, and case dimensions are 15.25 in x 21.75 in x 8.5 in
• The bag includes limited lifetime coverage and a trusted companion promise for repair costs due to damage from airlines or other common carriers for three years, applicable to new purchases after registration

9. Nomatic Shirt Organizer

• The NOMATIC shirt organizer is designed to simplify and enhance travel
• It keeps your clothes wrinkle-free during transportation
• The folding guide helps maximize space and ensures a perfect fit in bags
• It is made of a high quality and durable material for long-lasting use
• The organizer is suitable for frequent travelers who need a reliable solution
• It can carry up to 5 dress shirts and easily fits in most backpacks, suitcases, and baggage
• This versatile garment bag has an organizer and can be used for organizing various types of clothing for men or women

10. Modoker Convertible Roll Up Garment Bag With Shoulder Strap

Best garment duffel bags design.

• The Modoker convertible garment bag prevents wrinkles in clothes during travel
• It combines the features of a garment bag and a duffel bag
• The bag is made of high-quality materials, including waterproof PU leather and premium polyester fiber
• It has a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap for convenience
• The dimensions of the bag are suitable for carry-on luggage
• The bag weighs approximately 3.3 pounds
• It meets the size requirements for airport carry-on items

11. Briggs & Riley 22 inch Garment Duffle Bag

• The slip-through back panel allows easy transport of two bags together
• Made from strong ballistic nylon fabric resistant to water and wear
• Suiter compartment can hold garments or shirts securely
• Maximum storage with a moisture-resistant shoe pocket
• Discreet features include a hide-away ID tag and SpeedThru pocket
• Convenient for travelers who need to carry multiple bags
• Durable construction ensures longevity
• The bag is made with high-quality craftsmanship and a timeless design

12. Seyfocnia Garment Bag

The Seyfocnia brown faux leather garment bag is a versatile and stylish travel bag that is suitable for carrying garments and other travel essentials. It features a wrinkle-free design, multiple pockets for organization, a shoe compartment, and an adjustable shoulder strap.

• The garment bag is designed to remain wrinkle-free and keep clothes flat during travel
• It meets the size requirements for carry-on luggage at airports
• Made with high-quality waterproof PU leather, it has a stylish and textured look
• The bag includes various internal pockets for organizing smaller items such as ties, umbrellas, and wallets
• It has a separate zip pocket for electronics or additional travel materials
• The bag also features a shoe compartment outside for convenience
• An adjustable shoulder strap with a soft shoulder rest adds to the user-friendliness of the bag

13. Degeler Sky Hanger Suit & Dress Bag

Best classic garment bag.

The DEGELER Travel garment bag is a lightweight and functional all-in-one business and garment bag designed for frequent travelers. It features a unique hanging suit design with a titanium hanger, ensuring wrinkle-free clothes. The bag is made of durable Velocity Nylon, weighs only 500g, and allows for easy packing of multiple outfits and accessories. It also offers ample storage space for a laptop, travel documents, and delicate items.

• DEGELER Travel garment bag is designed for frequent travelers
• It features a hanging design with a titanium hanger ideal for suit jackets for wrinkle-free clothes
• The bag is lightweight, made of durable Velocity Nylon, and weighs only 500g
• It allows for easy packing of multiple business outfits and accessories
• The bag provides storage space for a laptop, documents, and other personal items
• The material used is water resistant, ensuring the protection of clothes

Tips For Finding The Best Garment Bag For Travel

If you’ve never used or shopped for a carry-on garment bag in the past, you’ll need to know about the top things to look for when looking for the best garment bags to buy.

There are a variety of sizes. The two main sizes of garment bags are: the carry on one and the checked-in one. You’re reading this because you want a carry-on version, so make sure you look for a bag around 21″ or less in size. This is the length of the bag.

Not all bags have wheels, and we’ll talk about the types of bags shortly. If you want to pull your bag along and not carry it, you’ll need to go for a bag with wheels. Two-wheeled types are often better because the wheels are built-in and add less bulk. If they’re too big, you won’t be able to take them as a carry-on. Remember, the carry on size includes the wheels.

This is another feature that is usually on a wheeled type of bag, but is there an extendable handle? This makes it easy for you to pull. If you’re going for a carry type of bag, you need to ensure that the grip is strong and durable, as the weight could be pretty heavy in some cases. We don’t all travel light, after all!

Zipper quality

Make sure that the quality of the zip is high because it’s going to be holding a fair amount of content. Small zips might break easily, so it’s better to go for thicker or larger zips if you want a durable, long-lasting choice. Look for dual zippers, too.

Go for durable, ripstop fabric, and avoid putting too much stress on the garment bag itself. Of course, waterproof is always better, too. Nylon and polyester are the two main types you’ll find, but if you can, go for one with corner guards, as this will also protect your clothing if you happen to bang into anything while moving around the departure lounge.

There will be an area inside the bag which is for hanging items. It would be best if you looked at how the hangers are secured within the bag after you’ve closed it. Better quality bags come with a locking system, which holds everything in place and stops your hanging items from crumpling up.

Fold Or Roll

How does the bag dictate how you pack your clothes? If you don’t like to roll, go for a fold, and vice versa.

Extra Compartments

Some bags have different sections so that you can pack shoes, accessories, and other items, like towels. This is an extra you might like to look out for.

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Types Of Garment Bag Luggage Options

We’ve already alluded to the fact that there are a few different types of carry on garment bags, so let’s check each one out in a bit more detail now.

Wheeled Garment Bags

Wheeled garment bags can have either two or four wheels, but ensure that the measurement includes the wheels to keep within airline carry on rules. These are similar to carry on wheelie cases but are far less bulky. These also usually have an extendable handle and make moving around super easy. The downside is that they are a little bulkier than the other types.

Duffle Garment Bags

This type of bag typically has two main compartments: an outer section for you to roll your clothing and an inner chamber for other items, such as shoes. These can look sporty or business-like, and you can carry them like a traditional duffel bag, i.e., on the shoulder.

Traditional Foldable Garment Bags

A regular type of garment bag can be either foldable as tri-fold or bi-fold. This means that it will fold a certain number of times to close. These are often light and compact to carry and have various features, so it’s worth shopping around carefully to find the space and features you want.

Airline Rules Carry-On Garment Bag

“Can a garment bag be a carry on?” is a very common question. Every airline has different rules for their carry-on luggage, so the best advice is to check with your particular airline about the carry-on bag sizes they will allow. Most carry on bags do fit in with these regulations, but it’s best to check to be on the safe side.

You won’t often find airlines mentioning garment bags per se, but as long as your bag fits into the size dimensions, you won’t usually have a problem.

Advantages Of Using A Garment Bag Carry On

The main advantage of using a carry on garment bag is convenience. If you check in a bag, you will have to pay hefty checking-in fees, and you also have to wait for your case to come around the carousel when you arrive at your destination. Besides, there is always the small risk of your bag not reaching your destination and becoming lost. This is an inconvenience and worry that nobody wants!

Garment bags also allow your clothing and belongings to be organized to keep them flat and crumple-free.

How To Pack A Garment Bag For Wrinkle-Free Clothes

If you’ve never used a travel garment bag before, you might be unaware of the best ways to pack to keep your clothes flat and free of wrinkles. Wash your clothes before you pack to keep everything inside fresh; if you need to iron them, go for it. This will help with the wrinkle-free aim!

A few other tips include:

• To avoid wrinkling of shirts, blouses, and trousers, place tissue paper or newspaper (be careful of transferable print) inside them. This helps them stay wrinkle-free and in shape
• When packing, keep your garment bag somewhere flat
• Pack your clothing facing the back of the bag. You’ll get creases from any folds or rucks in the bag, and if this happens, it won’t show on the front of your clothes.
• Secure your items with the tie-down straps, which are usually inside the bag, and clip any hangers in place to keep them from moving around
• Pack your outer pockets last, after you have folded or rolled (depending on the way the bag closes)

Tips For Traveling With A Carry On Garment Bag

It’s easy to try and cram everything inside your garment bag to get the most out of it, but overpacking will increase the risk of wrinkling what you already have. This bag is perfect for keeping clothes flat, which are pretty susceptible to crushing in general. Anything quite regular, e.g., jeans, are probably better off in an average wheelie case or suitcase .

Also, always use the straps which are inside the bag. This will stop everything from moving around and creasing. We mentioned washing and ironing everything before you pack, and that’s a great tip for keeping everything flat and in excellent condition.

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15 Best Garment Bags for Travel in 2024

A great garment bag will keep your suit, dress, or other formal clothing crisp and neat during travel. This is the way to travel in style.

Traveling with a suit, dress, or other formal clothing can be a hassle. They’re tricky to pack and it’s hard to keep them crisp and wrinkle-free throughout your journey. A well-designed garment bag solves that problem, but it can be hard to find the best garment bag for your use case.

I’ve traveled a lot with a suit, and at first, I just did my best to fold it neatly in my standard luggage. I quickly learned the hard way (after constantly having a crumpled suit) that a good garment bag is an absolute necessity when traveling with formal clothing.

Garment bags are purposefully designed to protect After diving deep into the world of garment bags, I’ve found that the best ones are the ones that are the easiest to use. I look for intuitive, simple folding designs that keep my clothes securely in place.

It’s also important to look for a garment bag that specifically fits your needs. Some are ideal for suits while others are designed to hold full-length dresses. I’ll help you determine which bags are best for specific uses.

I’ve searched far and wide for the best garment bags out there. These products are high-quality and will ensure your clothes arrive in pristine condition, whether you’re traveling for business trips or a destination wedding. Here are the 15 best garment bags on the market today.

• Best Garment Bag Overall : Briggs & Riley Baseline 2-Wheel Garment Bag
• Best Budget Garment Bag: AmazonBasics Trifold Garment Bag
• Best Carry-On Garment Bag: Victorinox Werks 6.0 Global Carry-On
• Best Garment Bag for Suits: Away Garment Bag
• Best Garment Bag for Dresses: Samsonite Just Right Garment Carrier
• Best Rolling Garment Bag: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Checked Rolling Garment Bag
• Best Garment Duffel Bag: Halfday Garment Duffel
• Best Wheeled Garment Bag: Briggs & Riley Carry-On Garment Spinner
• Best Men’s Garment Bag: NOMATIC Garment Bag
• Best Hanging Garment Bag: CALPAK Compakt Garment Bag
• Best Garment Bag for Air Travel: Zegur Suit Carry-On Garment Bag
• Best Rolling Garment Bag Carry-On: Travelpro Crew Carry-On Rolling Garment Bag
• Best Wedding Dress Garment Bag: Wally Bags Trifold Carry-On Wedding Dress Travel Bag
• Best Garment Bag Luggage: Travelpro Platinum Elite 25” Check-In Spinner
• Best Convertible Garment Bag: Modoker Convertible Garment Bag

Briggs & Riley Baseline 2-Wheel Garment Bag : Best Garment Bag Overall 

Briggs & Riley is one of the most respected luggage brands in the industry. They built super durable luxury suitcases and have an amazing lifetime guarantee.

They also have some awesome garment bag designs. The Baseline 2-Wheel Garment Bag is an amazingly-well designed carry-on suitcase with dedicated hanging storage with a folder design to keep your formal clothes crisp and neat. It rolls on two wheels with an extendable handle, so it’s very easy to move through the airport.

In addition to the hanging storage, this bag has a separate packing compartment where you can store additional clothing or accessories. There are also two exterior pockets that are perfect for keeping essentials like electronics, passports, or books. These features make it much more versatile and functional than most garment bags. For many trips, this could be your only piece of luggage.

The downside is the high price. If you’re a frequent traveler, it may be worth it for the unbeatable quality and warranty.

• Technical Specs

AmazonBasics Trifold Garment Bag : Best Budget Garment Bag

If you’re on a budget, shopping on Amazon can be a great way to save on affordable luggage and travel gear. AmazonBasics is an in-house brand that focuses on selling functional, highly-rated products at affordable prices, from AA batteries to outdoor furniture.

The AmazonBasics Trifold Garment Bag is a simple and well-thought out carry-on size garment bag with a carry handle and padded shoulder strap.

The simple hanging design makes it very easy to pack your clothes with their hangers. There are two tie-down straps to prevent creases.

In addition to the clothes storage, there are tons of internal and external zippered pockets for packing socks, shoes, ties, electronics, books, pens, an anything else you can think of.

Victorinox Werks 6.0 Global Carry-On : Best Carry-On Garment Bag

Victorinox is best known for making the classic Swiss Army Knife, but they also build some very functional and durable travel gear.

I personally prefer just having one carry-on , and I don’t want to deal with suitcase and a separate garment bag on the plane. The Victorinox Werks 6.0 Global Carry-On solves that problem with an innovative design that includes a dedicated garment folder in a standard carry-on suitcase.

At first glance, this is a fairly typical carry-on, with spinner wheels and a large zippered main compartment. Inside, though, there is a fold-out panel and a hanging clip for formal clothes.

The biggest downside is that the garment folder isn’t very long, so it won’t be ideal for longer items like full-length dresses. It’s still one of the best men’s carry-on options for traveling with a suit, though.

Away Garment Bag : Best Garment Bag for Suits

Away is a startup travel brand that has rocked the internet with their clever and omnipresent marketing. They make sleek, beautiful products that are designed to take some of the stress out of travel.

The Away Garment Bag is a super simple hanging design that looks good and is easy to use. There aren’t any totally unique features, but it does work really well for packing up to two suits.

One of the best features is the built-in strap that makes it really easy to attach this garment bag to the side of your suitcase. This makes it easier to roll through the airport and keeps your other hand free. There’s also a shoulder strap if you want to carry it that way.

Samsonite Just Right Garment Carrier : Best Garment Bag for Dresses

Samsonite is the most recognizeable luggage brand in the world. Their products are everywhere, and for good reason: they build solid luggage and travel bags at a wide range of pricepoints.

Traveling with a dress isn’t always easy, but the Samsonite Just Right Garment Carrier is designed to eliminate the hassle. It’s long hanging design makes is really easy to pack, even with long dresses, and there are plenty of pockets for accessories, including shoe pockets for two pairs of shoes.

You get plenty of options for carrying this bag. There’s a tote handle, adjustable shoulder strap, and a luggage handle-passthrough.

The only problem with this garment bag is that it probably doesn’t have enough storage space to replace your main carry-on, so you’ll have to bring both through the airport.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Checked Rolling Garment Bag : Best Rolling Garment Bag

Travelpro was founded by an airline pilot who invented the original upright rolling suitcase. He started by making luggage for flight crews, and now Travelpro has a full range of luggage and bags for all travelers.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Checked Rolling Garment Bag is a big two-wheeled bag with hanging storage for suits, dresses, dress shirts, and more. The metal hanger clip makes it super easy to pack and is very secure, so you know your clothes won’t shift during travel.

I really love the wheeled design, especially for a large garment bag like this. Rolling luggage is much easier to move through the airport than traditional garment bags that you have to carry in your hand or on your shoulder.

My biggest complaint is the size. This bag is huge, and for most people it will be overkill. If you’re bringing a lot of hanging clothing, though, it can’t be beaten.

Halfday Garment Duffel : Best Garment Duffel Bag

Many garment bags are pretty single-purpose. They work well at carrying a suit or dress, and that’s about it. If you’re looking for something more versatile garment duffel bags may be the way to go.

The Halfday Garment Duffel Bag is a unique design that can open out into a full garment bag, and then zipper together to create a duffel bag for the rest of your items. If you want one compact bag that can hold a suit or dress and a weekend’s worth of clothes, this is it.

This definitely isn’t the best dedicated garment bag out there, but it really nails it when it comes to versatility.

Briggs & Riley Carry-On Garment Spinner : Best Wheeled Garment Bag

If you’re looking for an easy-to-pack, easy-to-roll garment bag on wheels, the Briggs & Riley Carry-On Garment Spinner is a slick carry-on garment bag that rolls on four spinner wheels.

This luxury garment bag combines the convenience of wheeled luggage with the ability to secure and protect clothing during travel. You can fit up to three suits inside and have plenty of room for everything else you need for a short trip.

Inside there are tons of zippered pouches for shoes, accessories, and more. Every inch of space is well used, and the organization features make it easy to have a designated space for everything. Seriously, I’ve never seen a garment bag that’s this well-thought-out in terms of organization.

Additionally, the exterior pocket gives you a space for essential items you want easy access to without opening the main compartment.

NOMATIC Garment Bag : Best Men’s Garment Bag

NOMATIC got their start through crowdfunding, and now they build a wide array of sleek travel backpacks and bags. While they’re best known for their laptop and travel backpacks, they also make a solid carry-on garment bag.

For men, traveling with a garment bag usually means carrying a suit, whether you’re traveling for. Your top priority should be arriving at your destination with a crisp and uncrumpled. The NOMATIC Garment Bag is simple, lightweight, and perfect for keeping your suit jacket, pants, and dress shirts in pristine condition during travel.

This lightweight garment bag is clean, simple, easy to pack, and easy to carry. It can hang from a wall hook, doorknob, or in a closet for easy packing, and it zips completely over your suit to keep it from shifting around.

The shoulder strap and luggage pass-through also give you options for carrying it through the airport.

Unlike some other options on this list, this is definitely nothing more than a suit garment bag. While it’s great at that purpose, it doesn’t have the same versatility as some of the convertible duffel bag or wheeled luggage options.

CALPAK Compakt Garment Bag : Best Hanging Garment Bag

Hanging garment bags are some of the easiest ones to use. You can simply hang them up from a wall hook or in a closet, and then you have full access for packing and unpacking.

The CALPAK Compakt Garment Bag is one of the best in this category. When packed, it’s compact and lightweight, and when you unfold it and hang it up it’s like having a whole mini closet open up in front of you, with easy hanging storage and a wide array of interior and exterior pockets.

Unfolded, the whole bag zips wide open. There is a simple loop for hanging clothes, and it’s super easy to pack in dresses or suits.

You also get a shoe compartment, small zippered accessory pockets, and see-through mesh pockets that make it easy to see what’s in each.

Zegur Suit Carry-On Garment Bag : Best Garment Bag for Air Travel

The Zegur Suit Carry-On Garment Bag is a solid product that manages to pack in the features of a deluxe travel garment bag at an impressively low price. It folds out wide to make it easy to pack hanging clothes, and has padded interior straps to prevent creases.

In addition to the garment storage, this bag has a wide-opening front pocket that’s loaded with smaller organizing compartments. There’s even a padded sleeve for your laptop!

These additional features make this a perfect carry-on to load with all your travel essentials and throw in the overhead compartment.

Travelpro Crew Carry-On Rolling Garment Bag : Best Rolling Garment Bag Carry-On

I’m a huge fan of rolling garment bags, especially when they have enough space and extra pockets to serve as my main carry-on.

The Travelpro Crew Carry-On Rolling Garment Bag is durable, stylish, and uber-organized. It has great storage for your formal clothing plus tons of compartments for other clothing and accessories. On shorter trips, this could easily be your only piece of luggage. I love that versatility!

The fold-out design makes it very easy to pack suits or dresses into this carry-on garment bag, and padded tie-down straps keep everything in place.

Wally Bags Trifold Carry-On Wedding Dress Travel Bag : Best Wedding Dress Garment Bag

If you’re traveling with a wedding dress, you want something that’s specifically made for that purpose. The Wally Bags Wedding Dress Travel Bag has extra length and features that make it perfect for long wedding dresses.

At the top of the bag there is a unique clamping system that holds hangers securly in place. You can fit multiple full-length dresses and won’t have to worry about them shifting around.

Finally, this carry-on garment bag is easy to carry with the detachable shoulder strap, carry handles, or luggage attachment.

Travelpro Platinum Elite 25” Check-In Spinner : Best Garment Bag Luggage

If you’re shopping for both a garment bag and standard checked luggage , it makes a lot of sense to get one product that can fill both purposes.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Check-In is primarily a medium softside checked suitcase, and it works great as a standard suitcase. There’s more going on here though. The built-in folding suiter also makes this a fully capable travel garment bag for suits, dresses, or other formal clothing.

With this super versatile travel bag, you can pack your formal clothing and still have room for other clothing and essentials for longer trips.

Modoker Convertible Garment Bag : Best Convertible Garment Bag

The final product on this list of travel garment bags is a unique convertible design. The Modoker Convertible Garment Bag can open out wide to make it easy to pack hanging clothing. Then, you zip up the garment panel, fold the bag together, and it becomes a compact travel duffel bag.

The materials and build quality aren’t the best, but as a tradeoff, this bag is less than half the price of many other highly-rated garment bags. And it is well-designed and functional.

Overall, the Modoker Convertible Garment Bag is a very versatile, affordable choice for all types of travel.

How to Choose the Best Garment Bags

Here are a few pointers to assist you in selecting the ideal garment bag. You’ll never have to wear wrinkled or untidy clothes again if you invest in the appropriate bag!

Easy to Hang And Pack

Ease of packing is one of the most important features in any garment bag. Look for a design that can lay totally flat and open for packing. You also want a bag with built-in straps to hold your clothes in place while you fold them.

You should ideally look for a clothes bag with a low-profile hanging loop. This function allows you to effortlessly hang the bag in your closet, hotel room, or restroom while you pack and unpack it.

Quality Materials

Never choose a garment bag made of low-quality materials. Poor-quality fabric can lead your bag to flex or crease, which defeats the purpose of using a garment bag. Always pay great attention to the material of the garment bag you want to buy. Choose a product that is made of a sturdy material that will not crease even when folded.

Carry-on garment bags normally have maximum dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches. As a result, it’s usually a good idea to double-check the maximum size at the airlines you plan to use before purchasing.

The length of the carrier bag is another crucial feature. If you plan to carry lengthy gowns or dresses, be sure the bag can hold them and maintain them wrinkle-free.

Best Garment Bag FAQs

Are garment bags worth it.

If you are traveling with a suit, or dress a garment bag is very much worth it.

Do travelers still use garment bags?

Absolutely. If you are traveling with a suit, dress, or other formal clothing, a garment bag is worth it.

What is the best way to travel with a suit carry-on?

For packing a suit, you’ll want a carry-on with garment storage like the Briggs & Riley Baseline .

Where do you put your garment bag on a plane?

Some planes have a closet to hang your garment bag unfolded, otherwise, use the overhead bin.

Do garment bags prevent wrinkles?

Yes, garment bags are designed to keep your clothing wrinkle free.

Jeremy Scott Foster

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The Best Carry On Garment Bag

Last Updated on April 15, 2020

12 Garment Bags To Fit Within The Airline Carry On Rules

In Summary: We sourced and tested 12 travel garment bags that qualified (or damn near qualified) as carry on luggage and found that the Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Garment Bag  was the best carry on garment bag.

It’s was the best because of the quality of workmanship, it’s lightweight design and it’s sterling ability to keep your clothes crease and wrinkle free. The price was high, though not the highest, and while you need to be a serious traveler to warrant spending so much on it we couldn’t deny that it simply was the best carry on garment luggage.

It won because:

• It fits under 22 x 14 x 9 inches (okay it’s 0.25 inches too deep)
• It has a kick ass Briggs & Riley Lifetime warranty.
• It was one of the lightest wheeled carry on garment bags we tested.
• Suits and shirts survived with minimal wrinkles and creasing.

I selected a rolling carry on garment bag partly against my personal better judgement. I like to carry my carry on but I am aware that this doesn’t suit most people.

For a carry on that you actually carry I suggest you look no further than the Henty Wingman Suit Bag .

And for the best cheap option check out the Mercury Luggage Executive Series Tri-Fold .

Here’s What We’re Going To Be Covering In This Guide

In terms of size we learned that you will probably need to fold (or roll) your garment so that it fits within the airline carry on size limits but American Airlines are pretty good with garment bags as you can have a bag 51 inches long.

There are a few categories of carry on garment bags and each has their pros and cons.

Of course you could just wear your suit, or your wedding dress, or your kilt on the plane and have the added bonus of being the best dressed passenger onboard.

I bet you never thought of that did you!

Joking aside (even though I’m half serious), if you are like most people you’re going to want to pack your highfalutin, fancy clothes in some form of a carry on garment bag.

At A Glance: Our Picks For The Best Carry On Garment Bags

• Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On Upright Garment Bag
• Travelpro Crew 11
• Samsonite Lift Wheeled Carry On Garment Bag
• Tumi Alpha 2 Carry-On 4 Wheel Garment Bag
• Briggs & Riley Baseline Compact Tri-Fold
• A.Saks Expandable Tri-Fold Garment Bag
• Mercury Luggage Executive Series Tri-Fold Garment Bag
• Tumi Alpha 2 Tri-Fold Carry-On Garment Bag
• U.S. Traveler Ballistic Nylon Tri-fold
• Code Alpha Hybrid
• Hook and Albert Waxed Canvas Garment Weekender Bag
• Henty Wingman Suit Bag

What do you want to see?

Click a button below to quickly jump to the section you want or read on:

Are Garment Bags Allowed As Carry On?

If only life were so simple…

Unfortunately it depends on who you are flying with…

Occasionally some airlines have special dispensations for garment bags but most make no mention of garment bags specifically.

A standard unfolded garment bag like the one in the photo is going to be too large so you’re gonna need to come up with a plan…

Take it from Kenny Rogers:

You’ve got to know when to hold ’em and know when to fold ’em… The Gambler

When you’re flying with carry on garments like a Tuxedo that you want to keep fresh… you’ve got to fold them.​

Okay I might made some of that up… but Kenny’s timeless gambling advice can equally be applied to carry on luggage because when it comes to taking special garments on the plane… well…  you’ve usually got to fold them!

TOP TIPS FOR CARRYING ON GARMENTS

• 2 Bags: If you only have 1 or 2 items and can fold your garment bag you might get away with taking it as your second personal item as well as a normal carry on suitcase. Pay special attention to any 2nd item size limits. But if you have a lot of garments you’re probably going to need to forgo the carry on suitcase and take a dedicated carry on garment bag.
• Ask About The Closet: Planes sometimes have a closet that is available for storage of mobility aids, wheel chairs, walking frames etc. If you ask the flight attendant they may be able to hang your garment bag in the closet for the duration of the flight. This should help keep creasing ​down to a minimum. Note: They will only do this if there is space available. The priority will always be for mobility aids and you must be prepared to fold your garment bag and put it in the overhead locker.​
• If you can fold your bag to less than 22 x 14 x 9 inches then it’s probably going to be ok.

We checked out a few airlines to see if they say anything about garment bags:

Is a Garment Bag a Carry-On or Personal Item?

In most cases a garment bag counts as your carry on. A personal item is a smaller bag like a purse or a handbag.

Please check out the main Carry On Luggage Size Limits Made Simple  page for full details about carry on size and weight limits.

How Did We Test?

Each bag was tested for durability and fitness for purpose. We consulted various professional travelers as well as trawled the net looking for any reported problems with the products.

While manufacturers are pretty good in general at creating bags to fit airline carry on size limits they are terrible when it comes to garment bags!

This means the you need to be extra cautious when buying a “carry on” garment bag because if you’re not careful there is a strong possibility that the bag you buy will be too big.

Bi-fold garment bags were discounted because they are all too large.

As a rule of thumb if the bag looks square then it’s probably Bi-fold and too large.

Also any bag that didn’t at least come close to 21x14x9 inches was not considered. We did include some bags that were slightly over because most people report travelling with them without problems.

If we included a bag that was ever so slightly too large it is noted in the review. Any bag that was over-sized could not win our top pick but given the low numbers of carry on garment bags it would have been remiss to ignore them altogether.​

Most people buy a garment bag because they want to avoid creasing so assessing how clothes held up to long periods in the bags was a top priority.​ Any bags that resulted in excessive creasing were eliminated. 

4 Awesome Roller Carry On Garment Bags With Wheels

Wheeled rolling carry on garment bags help to take the load off but they can be annoying when you hit cobbles or uneven terrain.

Also wheels can break and make your case heavier. And you probably will need to carry it some time.

And wheeled garment bags tend to be in landscape orientation rather than portrait. This can make them harder to steer and fit through smaller spaces.​

• Wheels so you don’t need to carry
• Usually more sturdy
• Extra weight
• More parts that can break
• Increased cost
• Too wide to fit roll through small spaces
• Too wide to roll down the airplane aisle
• Wide designs can hit your back leg when walking

If you insist on a rolling garment bag then these bags are the bags for you:​

Briggs & Riley Baseline Baseline Carry-On Garment Bag Review

The Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On Upright Garment Bag stands out for it’s unusual upright style. In fact it’s upright design was one of the main reasons that this bag won our top pick.

Manufacturers have usually opted for a wide landscape design for garment bags and this makes them difficult to fit down the airplane aisle and through narrow spaces.

The width of the Baseline Upright means it drives just like a normal carry on yet is still has the special features for caring for suits, dresses and garments.

They have essentially opted for a fold out Tri-Fold bag inside a regular sized wheeled carry on.​ It’s dimensions mean they are making full use of the available carry on volume whereas some Tri-Fold bags are smaller and mean volume is wasted.

And at 9 lbs it’s also one of the lightest wheeled carry on garment bags.

The actual real world measurements are 21.9″ tall, by 13.9″ wide, by 9.25″​ (Note: Real world measurements are frequently different from manufacturers measurements… they must have different measuring tapes than the rest of us!)

This means it’s about a quarter of an inch too deep but that’s pretty good and I would be extremely surprised if you ran in to any check in problems in America.

Internationally weight and size might be an issue. For example… if the case is 9 lbs and your flying in Asia where the weight limit is commonly 15 lbs then you’ve only got 6lbs for your stuff!

Check the weight and size limits of the airlines you plan to travel with and do the math!

• Size: 21.9 x 13.9 x 9.25 inches
• Ballistic Nylon]
• Lifetime Warranty
• Superior build quality]
• Upright design
• Weight: 9 lbs

Travelpro Luggage Crew 11 22″ Carry-on Rolling Garment Bag Review

The Travelpro Crew 11 is advertised as conforming to the 22x14x9 inch size limit that is common to airlines in the usa.

It’s a minor update to their previous version 10. Have they go things right after 11 iterations of this bag?

Unfortunately the reality is that it’s higher than 14 inches and when you include wheels and the handle it’s closer to 16.5 inches.

This prevented the Crew 11 from winning our top pick.​

Luggage manufacturers are caught between a rock and a hard place. They want to advertise their bags as maximum carry on size ( 22x14x9 ) but they also want those handles and wheels sticking out. Which means their bags are actually larger than maximum.

It’s 12.3 lbs so if you are travelling internationally it’s going to use up a lot of your weight allowance. And if your bag over 10 lbs before you even put anything in it… yeah you are probably going to need wheels!

Hopefully you are a good driver because most people report finding it difficult to navigate with a wide bag.​

Also if you are going outwith the usa 28% of the world’s airlines have depth limits smaller that 9 inches and 14% have width limits smaller than 14 inches.​ And because the size in inflexible you are not going to be able to squeeze it to fit.

I don’t want to be too down on this bag. Most wheeled garment bags are wide and most are heavy. It is priced reasonably and is well featured.​

You can take up to 3 suits in this and it will keep them largely crease free.​ Taller people might find that their shirts are too long.

• Size: 22 x 15.5 x 9 inches
• Good for 2/3 suits and a few shirts
• Weight: 12.3 lbs
• Wide load is hard to steer

Tumi Alpha 2 Carry-On 4 Wheel Garment Bag Review

We love the Tumi Alpha 2 Carry-On 4 Wheel Garment Bag … but at the end of the day it’s just a bag… it’s not a small car or a down payment on an apartment!

Maybe I could have looked past the price… maybe it could have been a contender if it wasn’t for the fact that it’s half an inch too high and we decided at the outset that a bag that was significantly greater than 22x14x9 inches shouldn’t win our top pick.

A great bugbear of other 2 wheeled rolling garment bags is that they can only be rolled facing  one direction. And in that direction they are too wide to fit down the aisle.

The whole point of a wheeled bag is that you can roll it and yet when you carry it onto the place you find yourself needing to carry it as you edge your way towards your seat. It kinda defeats the purpose and to do it in the environment where it was supposedly designed for!​ Doh!

The Tumi Alpha 2 featuring 4 wheels has no such problems and this is one the reasons why we loved this bag but the upright design of the Briggs and Riley helps with this problem too.

The second reason is that it’s just so damn well constructed. Everything about this bag screams quality… and it should do because take a look at that price tag!

This is a great bag but you need to be a serious full-time suited traveler to think about ​buying this. For an occasional wedding or business trip it’s just too pricey. If you spend half your life in U.S. airports wearing a suit then this might be the bag for you.

If you travel internationally you’ll really need to keep and eye on the weight it’s almost 12 lbs when empty.​

Otherwise for most regular folks it’s just a few hundred dollars too expensive.​

• Ballistic Nylon
• Weight: 11 lbs 12 oz
• Size: 22 x 14.5 x 9.1 inches

Travelpro Maxlite 4 Carryon Garment Review

The Travelpro Maxlite 4 is a decent cheaper rolling carry on garment bag… if you can find any in stock.

Again at 15 inches it’s an inch higher than it should be. You might be comfortable with that risk or you might prefer to not take any chances.

​This bag used to cost more but I believe the line has been discontinued. But it’s still available in at discounted prices.

If you are looking for a decent, cheaper wheeled bag and you can find the Maxlite 4 then snap it up!​

• 100% Polyester
• Comfortable handle
• Weight: 8.1 lbs
• Size: 21.5 x 15 x 9 inches

Try Carry On Origami With These 5 Tri-Fold Carry On Garment Bags

You might have picked up that I’m not a huge fan of wheeled carry on luggage… wheels are great if you have good reason to require wheeled luggage.

However for the majority of fit and able people wheeled carry on luggage can cause more problems that it’s worth.​

Carrying your carry on bag is often the best way to move quickly though the airport, to make sure you don’t pack too much crap and to reduce travel hassle.​

And the same applies to carry on garment bags…​

Non-fold garment bags and Bi-fold garment bags are always too big so what’s the solution…

Well… it’s a Tri-fold bag of course!

• Often smaller than the max
• Free upper arm work out
• You’ll need to carry

But is all that folding going to result in creased clothes? Read on to find out:​

Briggs & Riley Baseline Luggage Compact Tri-Fold Garment Bag Review

The Briggs & Riley Baseline Compact Tri-Fold is the perfect size for a carry on garment bag.

It’s also lightweight enough to carry and you can fit 2 suits and 4 shirts in it.

Like all Briggs & Riley products it’s extremely well made and comes with a lifetime warranty. Briggs & Riley are renowned for how good their warranty is.

Unless your suits are particularly large you should be able to use the Briggs & Riley to transport your garments without creases and wrinkles.

It performed well in tests and after 6 hours garments still looked fresh.​

The only downside is that it could be a bit expensive. When you can get a U.S. Traveler for only $37 it’s hard to say that the Briggs and Riley is 10 times better than the cheaper option.​

• Ballistic Weave Nylon
• Size: 22″ x 14″ x 8.5″ inches
• 6 lbs, 9 oz
• “great for 2 suit and 4 shirts”
• doesn’t stand up

A. Saks Deluxe Expandable Tri -Fold Carry-On Garment Bag Review

The A.Saks Expandable Tri-Fold Garment Bag is another bag that keeps things simple and doesn’t try to do too much.

My tip for you would be to not even fold it up until the last minute unless you need to. Ask if it could be placed in the closet instead of the overhead locker.

If you do need to fold it and place in the locker then the A. Saks Deluxe will fold up nicely and the clips will keep everything in place.​

• Nylon/ Polyester
• Fits 3 suits
• Questionable durability.
• Shoulder strap could be more comfortable

Mercury Luggage Executive Series Tri-Fold Garment Bag Review

The Mercury Luggage Executive Series Tri-Fold Garment Bag is a budget priced Tri-fold garment bag for carry on flights.

Customer satisfaction is very high with this bag, with amalgamated ratings from Amazon, Ebags, Zappos, Walmart, Sears resulting is a 92% satisfaction rating.

If I had less than $100 to spend then I’d pick the Mercury Executive it’s probably the best carry on garment bag under $100.​ and certainly the best carry on garment bag under $50!

Perhaps when you don’t pay so much money for a bag your expectations are lower and it’s easier to be satisfied.​

Many people have already invested in a good quality carry on roller but only have occasional use for traveling with garments perhaps to a wedding or business function.

In cases like this a cheaper carry on garment bag is in order and for short infrequent trips you don’t go far wrong with the Mercury Executive Series​.

It’s lightweight​ and while at 15 inches high it’s a little high it can be made to fit as long as it’s not packed full.

It’s a great international carry on bag for garments as it’s only 6.75 inches when folded. Anyone that’s traveled in Europe will be familiar with the budget airline Ryanair which is a great option for cheap flights. However their depth limit is only 7.8 inches. Yet a Mercury garment bag will handle this easily.​

• Size Folded: 22.2 x 15 x 6.75 inches
• Size: 45 x 22.25 x 2.75 inches
• Doesn’t make use of max volume
• You can’t hang the bag up

Tumi Alpha 2 Tri-Fold Carry-On Garment Bag Review

The Tumi Alpha 3 Tri-Fold Carry-On Garment Bag is in many ways similar to the Briggs and Riley.

I love that it’s only 3.75 lbs when it’s empty​ though which means you have a fighting chance of making a restrictive international weight limit in required.

It’s certainly build to last and if you are the type of person that wants a bag to last a lifetime then a Tumi might just be your ideal bag of the year 2049!​

• Size: 23″ x 16.5″ x 6.5″ inches
• “great for 1 suit and 3 shirts”
• It’s not a cheap option because Tumi are a luxury brand.

U.S. Traveler Ballistic Nylon Tri-fold Carry On Garment Bag Review

At the other end of the price spectrum is the U.S. Traveler Ballistic Nylon Tri-fold Carry On Garment Bag.

And yeah it probably won’t last a lifetime… but then in a world where nothing is certain do you want to spend a week if your life working to buy a Tumi or do you want to grab a cheap bag like this and get on the plane!

Many products we use are over priced and over engineered. Let’s be honest for a second… if it’s a one off trip you could transport your garment in a $0.10 plastic bag and it would probably be okay.

Heck! Push the boat out and use 2 plastic heavy duty refuse sacks for extra protection!

Once you’ve anchored the price down at $0.20 the $37 U.S. Traveler starts to seem like a luxury. And IT IS a luxury item. Most of the time we’re just spoiled!

Unless you are a serious full time suit wearing road warrior then you probably don’t need a garment bag that costs hundreds of dollars.

And if you are looking for a cheap option the U.S. Traveler isn’t half bad​! It fits, it protects your garments, it’s lightweight and it’s cheap.

• Size: 22″ x 13.5″ x 3″
• No built in hanger

3 Versatile Carry On Duffel/Garment Bags

Wouldn’t it be good if you could take a standard garment bag and roll it up instead of folding to prevent creasing?

And then since you’d have a space inside wouldn’t it be good if you could use that space to carry more things?

If you answered Yes! to both those questions then a carry on duffel bag/hybrid/garment bag might just be for you.

These are some of the highest rated and most loved bags we could find and they don’t cost an arm and a leg!

• Innovative use of space
• You’ll need to carry it. Boo hoo!
• Need to unpack it to get the suit out

They are also generally lightweight so if you can get by without wheels then you might find your dream bag in this category.

Code Alpha Hybrid Review

The Code Alpha Hybrid is an unusual bag.

It’s another garment bag that wraps around and zips to become a duffel bag. It comes in a range of hideous camouflage designs but thankfully there is a plain brown and plain blue version.

The length of 24 inches is a little long but as a duffle bag it’s squeezable so you shouldn’t need to worry.

The Code Alpha was the only bag we found that NOBODY had a bad word to say about. At a push we’d suggest they find a way to hold the size zipper together for extra security.

Again this is probably a reflection on the price. It’s a simple bag, with a simple price to deal with a simple problem.

Nobody is getting too worked up because they paid out $500 expecting a wonderful revalation and got…. well they got a bag…​

If you just need a simple bag to keep your suit crease free for a few trips now and then then the Code Alpha will do the trick.

And if you are a stealthy jungle businessman needing to hide in the undergrowth they have some options for you too!​

• Size: 24 x 15 x 5 inches
• 4.4 lbs
• Nothing to hold the zippers tied

Hook and Albert Men’s Canvas and Leather Garment Weekender Bag Review

There’s a lot to be said for a bag that looks stylish and the Hook and Albert Waxed Canvas Garment Weekender Bag certainly fits the bill on that description.

Unfortunately I couldn’t find enough in the bag to justify it’s high price. It is my favorite of the duffle/garment bag hybrids but it’s just not 10x better than the competition.

A large part of the Hook and Albert is about style and it’s one of the few carry on garment bags that comes in a range of colors. I think the pink one is particularly fetching.

• Size: 22 x 13 x 10 inches

Henty Wingman Two-Piece Travel and Suit Bag Review

The Henty Wingman Suit Bag is something a little different.

It’s a garment bag made from Tarpaulin that wraps around another cylindrical bag and the whole thing is designed to be worn with a single strap on your back.  

It’s a great bag for minimizing creasing​ and it fits within the airline carry on limits.

It’s not ridiculously expensive and it’s well made and durable.​

​ Pros:

• Size: 22 x 8.7 x 9.8 inches
• The inner bag can be used on its own
• no duffel style carry handle

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That’s It… Phew! Who Knew That Would Be Such A Monster Post!

So that’s the state of play at the moment as far as carry on garment bags are concerned. There is a lot of room for improvement. While there are some great ideas I don’t think anyone has quite nailed it on the design side.

It’s probably got something to do with the fact that suits and dresses are big and carry on luggage is small.

If you’re ready to give up and accept that creasing unavoidable then I urge you to check out​ two further areas.

Firstly travel clothes. Cotton is rotten and wool is cool. Wool doesn’t crease so easily. Wool and Prince make some merino wool dress shirts that will go a long way to easing your shirt creasing problems.

Secondly, a decent portable fabric steam cleaner can help you get the edge back and in the battle against crumpled clothes.​

If you have worn your wedding dress or special gladrags on a flight then we’d love to hear from you. And photos too would be amazing!

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The best carry-on luggage of 2024.

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

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

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

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

Best Overall: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Original – Large

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

Best Hard-sided: Away The Carry-On

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

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

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

Best luxury: carl friedrik the carry-on pro.

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

Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

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

Price:  $315 or less

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

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

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

What our editors say:

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

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

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $369.99 or less

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

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

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

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

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $275 or less

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

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

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

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

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $199.99 or less

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

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

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

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

Price: $245 or less

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

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

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

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $179.99 or less

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

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

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

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Price: $80 or less

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $699 or less

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

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $165 or less

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

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

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

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

Price: $83 or less

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

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

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

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

Price: $565 or less

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $270 or less

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

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

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

Price: $200 or less

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

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

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

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

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

Also Recommended

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

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

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

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

Pros and Cons of Hard-sided Luggage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How We Tested

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

You might also be interested in:

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

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Reader's Digest

8 Best Carry-On Luggage Bags for Any Type of Trip

Posted: March 12, 2024 | Last updated: March 13, 2024

Best overall

July carry-on pro.

You can't go wrong with the July Carry-On Pro , which is considered among the absolute best carry-on luggage bags. This smart luggage is equipped with a handful of noteworthy features. Among them include a detachable padded sleeve (perfect for storing your laptop and other trusty tech and travel essentials ), a built-in hidden laundry bag (to keep clean and dirty clothes separated), a TSA-approved lock (for added security) and an ejectable battery (perfect for on-the-go charging). The exterior features a durable polycarbonate shell while the interior is equipped with a water- and stain-resistant nylon lining.

"Worth every penny," writes verified buyer Shon B. "Best carry-on I’ve ever owned. Rolls smoothly, has plenty of room and the detachable computer case is next level. The charging station is so convenient! Bought a second for my husband."

• Bonus features like a detachable padded sleeve, TSA lock, ejectable battery and hidden laundry bag
• Sleek and sturdy hardshell construction
• Lifetime warranty
• 100-day free trial
• Does not expand

Best budget

Canway 65l travel duffel bag.

This durable, do-it-all duffle bag from Canway is chock-full of functional features at a superb cost. In addition to its foldable and extendable design, the duffel also boasts several pockets (including ones solely designed for shoes) to stay organized. Its water- and tear-resistant material will last for years to come. Customers can choose from 10-plus color options—each for less than $40—so you can travel in style .

"This duffel bag has been on four or five trips with me since I bought it. EVERYTHING fits inside," writes Gillian , one of the 13,000+ five-star reviewers. "There are so many pockets that I've considered a necklace or two 'gone for good' until the bag made a reappearance for another trip. For air travel and quick weekend trips, the duffel bag holds up and things inside stay safe."

• Extendable and foldable design
• Padded straps provide added comfort
• Multiple pockets for optimal organization
• Durable water- and tear-resistant material
• No wheels, so it can get heavy if you tend to overpack

Best for international trips

Briggs & riley international carry-on expandable spinner.

This Briggs & Riley luggage carry-on is expandable, providing up to 22 percent more packing space—making it a solid choice for longer international flights . It's also equipped with a built-in power bank and lock, both of which are TSA-approved. Its lightweight polycarbonate exterior offers resilience, too. Plus, the protective drawstring fabric bag helps keep your suitcase in top shape between travels.

Verified buyer Mari L. writes, "This is my second Briggs & Riley luggage. I wanted a carry-on and with no hesitation, I knew I wanted Briggs & Riley. This carry-on luggage expands to add more clothing and compress to its original size. I LOVE it!! I also love that you can place your portable charger and your phone outside of the luggage for easy access."

• Designed for international travel
• Expansion-compression system increases packing capacity
• Mesh and zip pockets for optimal storage
• Monogramming available
• At nearly $600, this suitcase is a splurge
• Limited color options

Best lightweight option

Monos carry-on plus.

The Monos Carry-On Plus suitcase is the epitome of the best carry-on luggage. Weighing just 7.38 pounds, this lightweight travel companion provides ample room for both lengthy journeys and quick getaways. It's equipped with exceptional details like a built-in TSA-approved lock, a sturdy telescopic handle, stylish vegan leather accents and whisper-quiet spinner wheels. Plus, the brand calls its polycarbonate shell "unbreakable," and its lifetime warranty ensures it'll last forever.

"Really love how sleek this suitcase is, both with the aesthetics and function," writes Gina R. in her five-star review. "Moving from an old-style suitcase, the maneuverability of this is a dream—quiet, smooth and balanced wheeling both upright and pulling at a tilt." (Speaking of, you can also check out our Monos luggage review .)

• Lightweight (just 7.38 pounds)
• 100-day trial
• Adjustable telescopic handle with four height settings
• Ten colors and patterns
• Aerospace-grade and water-resistant hard shell
• No built-in battery

Best for over-packers

Beis the carry-on roller.

The Beis Carry-On Roller effortlessly combines style and functionality with its expandable design and built-in scale, making it an ideal choice for those who tend to over-pack . The scale allows you to weigh your luggage in advance, ensuring you avoid any hefty baggage fees . Meanwhile, the expandable design adds an additional two inches of packing space, allowing you to fit in more essentials. This best carry-on luggage pick also includes various pouches, perfect for organizing shoes, laundry and personal items.

"I bought this specifically for a 10-day trip to Japan that I wanted to do with just carry-ons and this was absolutely perfect!" writes verified buyer Grace C. "The expander was great for extra storage as I stocked up on souvenirs. I got a ton of compliments and looks at the airport and it was really nice to be easy to spot by my travel mates." To learn more, you can also check out our review . Pair it with the Beis Mini Weekender , and you'll be good to go.

• Built-in scale helps you avoid overweight fees
• Expandable design lets you pack more
• TSA-approved lock
• Water-resistant zipper tape
• Nine fun color options
• No power bank/battery

Best for long trips

Away the bigger carry-on.

Designed to maximize space , this Away suitcase is an excellent choice for longer trips. Its durable polycarbonate shell ensures the utmost protection for your belongings, while the interior compression system, multiple compartments and built-in laundry bag help you stay organized. With the added convenience of a TSA-approved lock, your items remain secure throughout your journey. Furthermore, this suitcase offers a range of beautiful color options, from charming baby blue to neon green and timeless basic black, allowing for a touch of personal style.

Verified buyer Beth P. writes, "The bigger carry-on was perfect for this overseas journey to Tuscany, including Rome and Florence. The bigger carry-on held five dresses, a ball skirt, six pairs of shoes, spare jeans, multiple tees, pool and loungewear plus all the foundational garments I needed!"

• Spacious size is ideal for longer trips, but still fits in overhead bins
• Built-in lock and laundry bag are added bonuses
• Beautiful color options
• USB charger costs extra

Best carry-on luggage set

Kenneth cole reaction chelsea luggage collection.

This Kenneth Cole luggage set includes a soft-sided carry-on and a matching backpack. Crafted with a stylish chevron-patterned fabric, both pieces are lightweight and fashion-forward. The tear-resistant interior provides an added layer of security for your belongings. The rolling Amazon luggage is expandable, allowing for an extra 1.5 inches of storage capacity. On the other hand, the backpack not only features a padded laptop compartment but also numerous pockets, offering hands-free convenience for storing personal items and in-flight essentials.

"Wife brought it to her office and her workmates were fawning over the design," writes Ken C. in his five-star review of this luggage set . "She loves how light it is, how the spinner wheels tackle terrains with ease and how it carries her heavy laptop and other stuff like a champ."

• Two-piece set includes one soft-sided suitcase and a matching backpack
• Stylish chevron design
• Wet-garment pocket
• Elastic clothing compression straps
• Backpack loops over the telescoping carry-on handle
• The suitcase's small size isn't best suited for longer trips or over-packers

Best underseat option

Samsonite underseat carry-on spinner.

As its name suggests, this soft-sided luggage from Samsonite easily slides under your airplane seat . Its best feature, however, is the built-in USB port, which allows for seamless on-the-go charging. The exterior pockets—located on the front and side—are perfect for storing smaller items (i.e., your wallet, ID, credit cards and keys). Meanwhile, the main compartment boasts a padded compartment for your laptop or other tech devices.

There are nearly 4,000 five-star Amazon reviews that rave about this underseat luggage . "I was skeptical that this rolling carry-on would actually fit under the seat in front of me in first class and was much pleased that it did even when three-quarters full," writes verified purchaser David P. Cole . "The key is to place it with rollers pointing toward you."

• Compact size easily fits under the airplane seat
• Built-in USB port
• 360-degree spinner wheels
• Ergonomic push-button locking handle
• Smart sleeve on back fits over most luggage pieces
• Not as big as traditional carry-on bags

Why you should trust us

Our editors are frequent travelers of all types, from road trippers to frequent flyers. We're parents and pet owners, solo adventurers and weekend group trippers, and have used bags, backpacks and suitcases of all types to get us there. Through our travels, we've tested all of the top luggage brands in real-world conditions and ranked the best carry-ons, underseat bags, weekenders, luggage sets and affordable suitcases. We also regularly try out travel accessories like neck pillows, toiletry bags, packing cubes and luggage racks. In addition to our first-hand experience, we consult with experts in the travel industry to get their insider perspective and comb through countless customer reviews to gather even more intel. 

What kind of carry-on luggage is best?

When it comes to the best carry-on luggage, the options are plentiful. Consumers can choose from hard shell luggage , soft-sided suitcases , underseat bags (which—you guessed it—are small enough to fit under the airplane seat), duffel bags (some with wheels, some handheld) and travel backpacks (which offer hands-free convenience). Ultimately, the choice is yours—though you should consider if you're packing for a cruise , long trip or short excursion.

What is a good carry-on luggage size?

Before choosing the best luggage carry-on size for you, there are a few things to consider. For example, if you're an over-packer (no judgment!) or have a longer trip coming up on the horizon, you may opt for an expandable bag. However, if you tend to pack fewer belongings—or have a shorter trip planned—then an underseat bag or duffle may work best. Also, keep in mind that each airline has different carry-on size restrictions .

About the expert

• Iyanifa Shondra Cheris, Owner/Lead Explorer, BlackWillTravel.com

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Carry On Garment Bag for Travel, S-ZONE Convertible Garment Duffle Bag Suit Bags for Men Women Travel- 2 in 1 Hanging Suitcase Business Travel Bag with Toiletry Bag (Black)

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About this item.

• 2 in 1 GARMENT BAG: This garment duffel combines the functionality of a garment bag and a suit bag. It can be used as a duffel bag when on business travel, store suits and dresses, or it can be disassembled separately, becoming a garment duffel bag and used as a home hanging suit organizer
• DIMEMSION: Our travel garment bag measures (L) 21 x (W) 11.5 x (H) 12 inches, expanded size is 51.2 x 20.4 inches. Weight: 4 pounds. The perfect size of the carry on suit bag is fit for the airline requirements, you can put it on the overhead bin or under the seat
• SEPARATE SHOE COMPARTMENT & FREE TOILETRY BAG: We have added a separate shoe compartment(Size:17x12 inches). Suit bag for men travel has a shoe compartment to hold your shoes or dirty clothes, making it easy to separate them from your clean clothes when travelling. It also comes with a toiletry bag in which you can put your cosmetics, skincare products or toiletries
• WET AND DRY SEPARATION POCKETS: This convertible garment bag is made of durable, lightweight, soft canvas. On the outer pocket, high-density waterproof material can help you separate dry items from wet items
• LARGE CAPACITY & MULTIPURPOSE: Capacity: 50L. Roomy space can even fit in 3-5 days of daily essentials, easily fit into your clothes, toiletries, shoes, laptop and other items. You can use it as a business duffle bag, weekender bag, overnight bag, camping bag, sports duffel bag, carry-on luggage, etc.

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Product Description

Carry on garment duffel suit bags for travel with toiletry bag for men women.

Multifunctional Travel Garment Bag

Humanized Design

Convenience for Your Journey

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S-ZONE Convertible Garment Duffle Bag Suit Bags

Spending & Saving

GREAT addition to any luggage collection!

The best all-in-one duffle i’ve ever had!

Loves the durability and ease of carrying it!

S-ZONE Convertible Garment Duffle Bag

S-ZONE LEATHER GOODS

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Product details.

• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 20.87 x 11.42 x 12.2 inches; 3.97 Pounds
• Department ‏ : ‎ Unisex Adult
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ S-ZONE
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C4KZ6D85
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ China
• #68 in Garment Bags

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Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, size and sturdiness of the luggage. They mention it's well built, sturdy and built to withstand the rigors of travel. Customers appreciate the versatility in carrying options and the multiple pockets and compartments inside. They also appreciate the sleek aesthetics and timeless elegance of the bag.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the luggage. They mention that it is a wonderful travel bag, the best carry on luggage, and a perfect companion for business trips or weekend getaways. They also say that it's a reliable travel companion that can keep up with their jet. Customers also say it complements any travel ensemble and is very utile.

"...ever wished for a travel companion that seamlessly combines style, functionality , and convenience, then the S-ZONE Convertible Garment Duffle Bag is..." Read more

"...would consider this bag to be too big for a carry-on, the bag is very good ! Very fashionable, very utile, and very convinent!" Read more

"This is a very nice bag to pack clothing in for a trip...." Read more

" Seems good at first , good design or traveling with a suit and other stuff...." Read more

Customers are impressed with the quality of this suitcase. They say it's well built, has reinforced stitching, and sturdy handles that exude confidence. Customers also mention that it'll withstand the rigors of travel.

"...The robust zippers, reinforced stitching, and sturdy handles exude confidence , assuring you that your precious suits and belongings are in safe hands..." Read more

"...And it zips up into a carry on size. It’s very sturdy and easy to carry." Read more

" High quality canvas garment bag . Definitely recommend it" Read more

"...This bag design is much better, much sturdier . I will get a few more of these S-Zone bags to replace the other garment bags we got from Biaggi." Read more

Customers like the sleek aesthetics, seamless combining style, functionality, and elegance. They also mention that the black exterior exudes a timeless elegance that complements any travel ensemble. Customers also say that it's a fashion-forward accessory that speaks volumes about the ability to keep suits crisp and wrinkle-free during transit.

"...If you've ever wished for a travel companion that seamlessly combines style , functionality, and convenience, then the S-ZONE Convertible Garment..." Read more

"... Very fashionable , very utile, and very convinent!" Read more

"...It's sturdy, versatile, and looks great . The zipper pockets/compartments on the outside make it easy to organize and find smaller items...." Read more

"Seems good at first, good design or traveling with a suit and other stuff...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the size of the luggage. They mention that it fits all the suits they need for a quick getaway, and is good for large sports jackets. They also appreciate the snug fit into the duffle, ensuring that their grooming essentials are always within reach.

"...It fits snugly into the duffle , ensuring that your grooming essentials are always within arm's reach...." Read more

" Fits all the suits I need for a quick getaway. Suits don’t get wrinkly best purchase of the year !" Read more

" Good for Large Sports Jackets ..." Read more

Customers like the versatility of the luggage. They mention that the carrying options add an extra layer of convenience to their travel, and the duffle compartment accommodated all their essentials effortlessly. The interior features multiple pockets and compartments, allowing them to organize their shirts, ties, and accessories with ease.

"...The interior features multiple pockets and compartments , allowing me to organize my shirts, ties, and accessories with ease...." Read more

"...This travel case was perfect it had a spot for everything , shoes, tie, shirts.And it zips up into a carry on size...." Read more

"...It's sturdy, versatile , and looks great. The zipper pockets/compartments on the outside make it easy to organize and find smaller items...." Read more

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The 15 Best Crossbody Bags That Make Traveling a Breeze

Hands-free is the way to go

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Finding the perfect crossbody is not always an easy task, so we called in a travel expert: Camiel Irving, general manager of Uber Mobility in the United States and Canada. According to Irving, one of the most important things to consider is the bag’s size. “I try to travel light, so the best crossbody is big enough to carry all of my essentials (phone, passport, lip color, hand sanitizer), but small enough to not weigh me down,” she says. “I opt for versatile colors and textures, with a strap that can be worn a few ways, so that the same bag can take me from a client meeting to dinner with friends.”

Aside from size and versatility, when shopping for a travel-ready bag, it’s important to pay attention to interior and exterior features. (Personally, I’m a sucker for some zip pockets.) Finally, you want to look for a bag that is extremely secure with zip-top or button-flap closure. Sorry, pickpockets!

Best Everyday Crossbody Bag

A.p.c. betty crossbody bag.

Best Logo Crossbody Bag

Gucci messenger bag with interlocking g.

Most Sustainable Crossbody Bag

Cuyana double loop bag.

Best Nylon Crossbody Bag

Prada re-nylon shoulder bag.

Best Budget Crossbody Bag

Madewell the leather carabiner crossbody bag.

Best Quiet Luxury Crossbody Bag

Il bisonte salina leather crossbody bag.

Best Fashion-Forward Crossbody Bag

Loewe gate dual mini crossbody bag.

Best Saddle-Style Crossbody Bag

Longchamp le foulonné small crossbody bag.

Best Bohemian Crossbody Bag

Chloé marcie medium crossbody bag.

Most Splurge-Worthy Crossbody Bag

Bottega veneta intrecciato leather crossbody bag.

To make your adventures a little easier, have a look at the 15 best crossbody bags to make for easy, breezy traveling . Once you find your forever style, it’s a game changer.

The A.P.C. Betty is my personal favorite. It holds all my essentials and never feels too heavy, even when I’m walking around a new city for hours on end. I have owned this bag for over six years now, and the stiff leather barely shows any sign of wear or tear. And it’s even compact enough to throw into my personal item on a flight, so I don’t have to worry about extra baggage.

Materials: Leather

Dimensions: 8" W x 7" L x 2.4" D

Colors: Brown, black

If I were to go the designer logo route, I would most definitely choose Gucci’s messenger shape for the ’70s feel of the heritage G logo. The durable canvas is also ideal for travel, making cleaning and touch-ups easy. The two pockets will keep your belongings safe and secure. It’s also the ideal accessory for a day of sightseeing, especially if styled with a cotton button-down, a pair of faded jeans, and Birkenstock slides.

Materials: Canvas, leather

Dimensions: 7.9" H x 10" W x 2.4" D

Colors: Beige and ebony GG Supreme canvas

Cuyana excels at creating leather goods with purpose. The Double Loop bag is made from Italian leather—certified by the Leather Working Group—and produced in a woman-owned factory in Turkey, which has been in operation since the 15th century. The brand’s minimal designs, like this crossbody, are always in my suitcase because they’re guaranteed to work with any outfit I wear.

Dimensions: 8" H x 9.5" W x 5.5" D

Colors: Dark olive, black, cappuccino, ecru, and more

I like traveling with nylon bags since they don’t feel too precious. Prada’s version is a classic, reimagined in its Re-Nylon, which is produced from recycled, purified plastic materials. It has plenty of organizational pockets for all my necessities, too, so I am fully prepared for a full day of wandering.

Materials: 100% recycled nylon

Dimensions: 9.4" H x 11.6" W x 3.5" D

Colors: Black, desert beige

Madewell makes affordable bags from luxe Italian leather that wear quite well over time and are usually under $150. This compact bag’s extended strap is extra long and has loads of notches for additional adjustability.

I’d take this medium crossbody with me on a weekend excursion when I know I’ll be doing a lot of walking. It will also look equally great at the peak of summer with a white summer dress or this fall with a chunky sweater and vintage jeans.

Dimensions: 5.5" H x 8" W x 2" D

Colors: True black, harvest moon

Slow fashion is key to Il Bisonte’s work. The brand’s leather products are made by hand in Tuscany, Italy, by skilled artisans who use vegetable-tanned cowhide in an effort to produce leather more sustainably. This minimalist Salina crossbody looks like a vintage bag I’d stumble upon in a Parisian flea market. And the retro design isn’t clunky, making it ideal for a day of gallery hopping.

Materials: Cowhide leather

Dimensions: 9.5" H x 10" W x 3.5" D

Colors: Avorio, caramel, nero

Loewe’s Gate Dual Mini is a no-brainer. It’s stylish and compact, with a jacquard canvas strap that is thick, soft, and won’t rub on the shoulder. It’s also available in a bevy of rich colorways, so there is something for everyone. I love the olive green paired with a white tee, black jeans, and blue button-down.

Materials: Leather, cotton/polyester strap

Dimensions: 5.1" H x 8.3" W x 3.5" D

Colors: Green, tan, beige, peach, and more

Longchamp’s Le Foulonné bag has a top zip closure, so belongings won’t spill out while you’re zipping through security. The fabric lining inside also makes for easy cleaning in case of spillage—so there’s no need to worry about mini TSA-approved perfume bottles or a rogue uncapped lipstick making a mess.

Dimensions: 7.75" H x 7.75" W x 2" D

Colors: Caramel, turtle dove, black, and more

Chloé’s Marcie bag has been a permanent fixture in the brand’s collection, for good reason. It’s a roomy crossbody shape that fits all the essentials for travel: passport, wallet, phone, and keys. The stitching and simple hardware give it a slight bohemian-meets-equestrian feel. I’d take this one on my summer travels and pair it with airy, cotton dresses and lace-up sandals in the Mediterranean, or to the countryside in the fall while wearing a blazer, jeans, and cowboy boots.

Dimensions: 10.2" H x 11.4" W x 3.5" D

Colors: Tan, black, light gray

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato crossbody bag is a worthy investment. The thick, supple leather strap sits comfortably on the shoulder. But most importantly, it’s also removable, so the bag easily converts to a clutch

Dimensions: 5" H x 8.5" W x 2" D

Colors: Porridge-gold, white gold, teal washed silver, and more

Mother x Clare V. Le Fanny Pack

Both Mother and Clare V. have a knack for consistently creating simple, wearable products with a playful twist. So when they joined forces, we knew it was going to be good. This fanny pack can also be worn as a crossbody, giving you on-the-go versatility.

Materials: Nappetto leather

Colors: Breton stripe

The Row Small Slouchy Banana Bag

The Row makes a bag that’s a personal favorite of Irving’s. She tells us, “I love [this bag] because it sits securely in the front, is easy to access, and the relaxed leather adds some intrigue to any outfit.”

Materials: Leather, suede

Dimensions: 4.75" x 13.75" x 7"

Colors: Black

Tumi Langley Crossbody

It’s only natural that Tumi, purveyor of luxury travel products, would have a crossbody perfect for all types of adventures. Featuring ample pockets (including zip pockets and card slots), this bag primes you for peak organization.

Materials: Nylon

Dimensions: 5.0" x 8.0" x 2.5"

Colors: Black/gold, black/gunmetal

Iro Arc Baby Chain Bag

If you want something a little edgier, Iro’s silver chain hardware makes a statement. Carry it as a small shoulder bag or as a crossbody—either works.

Materials: Leather, cotton

Dimensions: 6.1" H x 2.4" W x 8.3" L

AllSaints Ezra Crossbody Bag

Comprised of (mostly) recycled materials, AllSaints produces a leopard-print bag that can also be worn as a clutch. Credit card slots replace the need of a cardholder, so you can travel with less.

Materials: Recycled polyester, cotton, leather

Dimensions: 5.1" H x 7.9" W x 1.2" D

Colors: Leopard brown, black

.css-p3fpzg{font-family:NewParisTextBook,NewParisTextBook-roboto,NewParisTextBook-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:-0.015rem;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-p3fpzg b,.css-p3fpzg strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-p3fpzg em,.css-p3fpzg i{font-style:normal;font-family:NewParisTextItalic,NewParisTextItalic-roboto,NewParisTextItalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;} Why trust Harper’s Bazaar ?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.

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The Edit: Fashion

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The 8 Best Carry-On Backpacks

In this article

• Best overall
• Best duffel-backpack
• Best for business travel
• Best for lumbar support
• Best for long trips
• Best for short trips
• Best for rugged trips

Even though much of my job as a travel writer involves testing suitcases , I usually prefer to fly with a carry-on backpack when I have the choice. You just can’t beat the sense of freedom that comes with strapping your possessions to your shoulders and heading to the airport — to me, a suitcase says “business trip” whereas a backpack says “adventure.” Not to mention the fact that backpack wearers are almost never singled out at the gate to check their luggage.

As backpack reviewer Geoff Grisdale of One Bag Travels explains, a carry-on backpack means “you can move around a lot quicker — it’s a lot easier to travel around cities with one.” Suitcases become cumbersome as soon as you’re confronted with cobblestone streets or multiple flights of stairs, adds freelance backpack designer Jeff Mullins. “And you have to have room to store them when you get home, whereas a backpack can be compressed.” Below, you’ll find the best carry-on backpacks for different sorts of trips, as tested by myself and other globetrotting experts. While you’re here, I’ve also written guides to the best travel pillows and the best toiletry bottles .

What we’re looking for

For trips longer than a weekend, you’ll require a carry-on backpack with a capacity of at least 28 liters, says Grisdale. From there, the size you choose will depend on your packing style, how long the trip is, and whether you need room for warm layers or extra shoes. Most of the experts I spoke with agreed that the sweet spot is somewhere between 28 and 35 liters.

Some carry-on backpacks can be as large as 45 liters, which is actually five liters more volume than an Away carry-on suitcase . While this size of backpack can be useful for long-haul trips, just note that it will be “really big and heavy — and you lose a lot of the mobility you’d get when carrying a smaller backpack,” says Grisdale. Mullins agrees: “If you’re a smaller woman, for example, I don’t think you should go over 35 liters.” Even though I’ll happily hike with an ultralight 55 liter backpack, I’m not a fan of wearing carry-on bags larger than 40 liters — they’re significantly bulkier, and the back pain afterwards just isn’t worth it.

Packing style

The best carry-on backpacks are designed for ease of packing. Rather than unzipping at the top, they’ll either open up like a clamshell (with separate zippered compartments on either side), or like a duffel bag (with one big compartment that’s accessible from the front of the bag). If you’re an intentional packer who likes to keep organized on the road, the former option is likely best. But Grisdale notes that duffel-style bags are usually quicker and easier to pack because “you can just stuff your gear in there and off you go.”

Your backpack will be crammed into overhead bins or underneath aircraft seats, so look for one that’s fairly rectangular in shape, with straps and a hip belt that can be removed or tucked away. “Anything that dangles has to be gone,” says Mullins. He also notes that there should be a handle on pretty much every side of the bag, so you can grab it from whichever space it’s wedged.

Organizational features

A nice thing about living out of a backpack as opposed to a suitcase is that exterior pockets provide easy access to small items like wallets and passports. I also love that backpacks typically have loops or straps on the outside to which you can attach carabiners and clips. A good backpack will enable you to “get to all your small stuff without fully opening it,” says Mullins. “Whether that’s your phone, earbuds, book, glasses, or food.” You still don’t want a backpack with too many pockets, as these will steal real estate from the main compartment inside. “I like enough exterior pockets to be able to hold gear but not so many pockets that they take up a lot of room in the bag,” says Grisdale.

Best carry-on backpack overall

Capacity: 35 liters | Packing style: Clamshell, tuckaway straps, removable waist belt | Organizational features: External laptop sleeve, top pocket, carabiner loops

The Cotopaxi Allpa is truly a backpack for suitcase people. Its clamshell design unzips fully to reveal a large mesh compartment on the right-hand side and three smaller ones on the left, mimicking the layout of rolling luggage. It also has a hidden laptop sleeve in the back that’s generously padded (I once checked my Allpa with a MacBook inside and the laptop survived unscathed), as well as an easy-access storage compartment on top that can fit snacks, a book, and your passport. The bag is comfortable to carry, with a sternum strap and removable waist belt for extra support. It comes in three different sizes, but this 35-liter version will be the best for most people — it’s big enough for a week’s worth of clothes but small enough that you can use it as an airline personal item or large daypack. (Strategist contributing writer Margaret Eby took one on a flight to Italy in addition to a rolling suitcase, and says the tuckaway straps helped her squish it under the seat in front of her.) One gripe: There’s no external water-bottle holder on the Allpa 35, although you could easily attach a carabiner to any of its handles or lash loops.

The best carry-on duffel backpack

Capacity: 30 liters | Packing style: Duffel, tuckaway straps, tuckaway waist belt, convertible shoulder strap, trolley sleeve | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, top pocket, water bottle holder

Patagonia’s Mini MLC is constantly sold out, and for good reason. This is an unusually roomy and rugged bag that can be used as your main piece of carry-on luggage (it’s available in a 45-liter version as well, if you prefer to overpack) or as a personal item that sits atop your wheeled carry-on. (Former Strategist associate editor Louis Cheslaw refers to his as a “ secret second suitcase ,” because it lets him pack heavy without checking a bag.) Unlike the Allpa, the Mini MLC opens duffel-style, revealing a deep interior compartment that can fit several outfits and a pair of extra shoes. There’s also a laptop compartment, small stash pocket on top of the bag that’s big enough for a passport or wallet, and stretchy water-bottle holder.

The best (less-expensive) carry-on backpack

Capacity: 40 liters | Packing style: Duffel opening, compression straps | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, water bottle holder, quick-access front pocket

At less than half the price of the Allpa or Mini MLC, TomToc’s Navigator is a thoughtfully designed carry-on backpack with a large capacity and helpful organizational features. It zips open at the front to reveal a generous duffel compartment that can be filled with several outfits, whether or not you’re using packing cubes . There’s also a front pocket that’s big enough for a book, as well as a laptop sleeve in the back that can be fully unzipped, revealing extra storage space for documents, cables, and stationery. It’s an excellent affordable option, according to Grisdale.

The best carry-on backpack for business travel

Capacity: 30 liters | Packing style: Clamshell, removable waist belt | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, top pocket, front pocket, water bottle holders

Tortuga’s backpack designs are highly respected among gear reviewers across the internet. I’ve been testing out its very professional-looking Travel Backpack Pro, which opens clamshell-style to reveal two suitcase-style compartments and also features a nicely padded laptop sleeve with a false bottom for extra protection. The sternum straps are extremely comfortable and can be tucked away when not in use, the bag’s rectangular shape means it slots easily into overhead lockers (as well as airline baggage sizers — mine recently passed the Spirit Airlines personal item test with flying colors), and I like that the exterior fabric is highly waterproof and easy to wipe down. It’s also much more anonymous-looking than Cotopaxi’s colorful Allpa or Patagonia’s gorp-y Mini MLC, which makes it ideal for business travelers and digital nomads.

The best carry-on backpack with lumbar support

Capacity: 40 liters | Packing style: Duffel, adjustable tuckaway hip belt and harness | Organizational features: External laptop sleeve, external toiletries pocket

When spending her year abroad as the inaugural New York Times 52 Places traveler, journalist Jada Yuan learned the hard way that rolling luggage is terrible for long-haul travel. “I don’t know how I got through 16 stops of my trip before buying the Osprey Fairview,” she recalls. “My back and shoulders hurt all the time. I needed something with strong lumbar support, a waist belt, and a chest strap so that I could make it through the trip without getting crippled.” The Fairview’s packing style she says, is perfectly bare-bones: “Just one giant cavity, plus a zippered section for your laptop and a bunch of straps on the outside for carrying, say, a bulky jacket.” It’s definitely the most comfortable backpack on this list, says Grisdale: “Osprey’s packs are good because they have a lot of padding, they’re really thick, and they’re also adjustable. So if it doesn’t fit you right out of the box, you can move things around.”

Best carry-on duffel backpack for long trips

Capacity: 45 liter | Packing style: Duffel, compression straps, removable shoulder straps, trolley sleeve | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, hidden top pocket for valuables

Away is best known for its hard luggage, but the DTC brand’s outdoor gear shouldn’t be overlooked. Brand marketing consultant Jennifer Olson came across this big duffel-backpack while gearing up for an eight-month road trip through South America with her partner. “We’d be living in a converted Land Cruiser and needed baggage soft and malleable enough to be thrown around the back of a truck and wedged into small spaces,” she explains. “Though we’d be hiking here and there, we weren’t doing any hardcore treks, so we didn’t need a traditional trekking backpack — but rather something in between.” True to Away’s suitcase-y roots, the bag’s internal storage compartment features compression straps that are designed to secure a set of packing cubes , which Olson says really helped keep things organized on her big trip. And the convertible straps have come in handy now that she’s returned home: “I usually use it as a duffle when I’m on weekend trips or using it as a carry on, and when the bag is a little more loaded with my things, I use it in backpack mode to disperse the weight.”

The best carry-on backpack for short trips

Capacity: 30 liters | Packing style: Duffel, compression straps | Organizational features: Internal laptop sleeve, stretchy side and front pockets, front bungee elastic

I first heard about the ULA Ultra Dragonfly when lurking on the 729,000-member-strong sub-Reddit r/OneBag , which has popularized the idea of bringing no more than one smallish bag on trips and vacations. And while many One Baggers own Allpas and MLCs, this is the bag they covet most. It unzips duffel-style, with a Goldilocks-size 30-liter capacity that means it can hold a decent amount of stuff but still slide underneath a plane seat if needed. There’s no hip belt, but uniquely shaped shoulder straps are designed to be worn for hours at a time without discomfort. There’s a laptop sleeve for digital nomads, and the Ultra fabric is slightly stretchy (allowing for a bit of overpacking), unusually durable (similar to ripstop nylon), and highly waterproof (which makes it appropriate for treks and other more rugged adventures). There’s just one catch: Due to stock issues, you can only purchase the Dragonfly Ultra once a week on Wednesdays at 3 p.m. ET. Within a couple of hours, the bag sells out and its buy button disappears for another seven days.

The best carry-on backpack for rugged trips

Capacity: 45 liters | Packing style: Duffel, tuckaway shoulder straps, compression straps | Organizational features: External shoe compartments, external laptop sleeve, passport pocket

More duffel-shaped than some of the very suitcase-y backpacks on this list, Timbuk2’s unique carry-on has zip-up shoe pockets at each end, allowing you to separate dirty footwear from the rest of your stuff — an especially nice feature for anyone packing a pair of hiking shoes . I also like how waterproof this bag is. All of the fabric is easy to wipe down, and the bottom of the bag has an extra protective “boot” which means you can plonk it down anywhere without worrying about it getting muddy. “The very considered design is ideal for someone who is most at home hopping on and off planes and trains,” says Andrew Barker, the former chief content officer of the travelers club, PRIOR . He appreciates the TSA-friendly slip pockets, which give easy access to your laptop and passport.

Our experts

• Andrew Barker, former chief content officer of the travelers club PRIOR • Louis Cheslaw , former Strategist associate editor • Margaret Eby , Strategist contributing writer • Geoff Grisdale, backpack reviewer at One Bag Travels • Jeff Mullins , freelance backpack and soft-goods designer • Jennifer Olson , brand marketing consultant • Jada Yuan , Washington Post reporter and inaugural New York Times 52 Places traveler

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

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Today’s Top Clicked

Park Hotel Bogorodsk

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Finding an ideal hotel in Elektrostal does not have to be difficult. Welcome to Park Hotel Bogorodsk, a nice option for travellers like you.

Rooms at Park Hotel Bogorodsk provide a kitchenette, a refrigerator, and a seating area.

In addition, while staying at Park Hotel Bogorodsk guests have access to a concierge and room service. You can also enjoy a lounge.

Close to Statue of Lenin (1.5 mi), a popular Elektrostal landmark, Park Hotel Bogorodsk is a great destination for tourists.

Travellers looking for Italian restaurants can head to Apelsin or Dodo Pizza.

There is no shortage of things to do in the area: explore popular art museums such as Electrostal History and Art Museum.

Park Hotel Bogorodsk puts the best of Elektrostal at your fingertips, making your stay both relaxing and enjoyable.

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Apart Hotel Yantar

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