suitcases when travelling

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Luggage for Travel

Best Suitcases , Packing , Packing Tips

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

Tips for Selecting Travel Luggage

Table of contents.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pros and Cons of Hardside vs. Softside Luggage?

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

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

Pros of Softside Luggage:

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

Cons of Softside Luggage:

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

Pros of Hardside Luggage:

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

Cons of Hardside Luggage:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Suitcase for Europe?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Factors to Consider When Choosing Luggage

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

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

There are 4 factors to consider when choosing a suitcase:

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

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

#1 Choosing Luggage Size and Weight

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

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

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

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

Domestic Airlines Carry On Luggage Size Guide

International Airlines Carry On Luggage Size Guide

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

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

Compass Rose Digital Luggage Scale

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

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

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

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

#2 Choosing Luggage Features

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

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

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

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

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

#3 Choosing Luggage With Safety Features

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4 Choosing Luggage Based on Price

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

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

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

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

• Away Luggage
• Briggs and Riley

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

Here are some suitcase shopping tips:

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

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

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

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

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

How to Organize Your Luggage?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Luggage Reviews

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

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

 Editor’s Pick: Away The Carry On

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

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

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

Buy it : Away

Watch my Away Carry On unpacking video !

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

Monos Carry On With Laptop Compartment

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

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

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

Buy it: Monos

Watch my Monos review video !

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable, 21”

Reader’s Choice: Travelpro Maxlite 5

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

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

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

Buy it: Amazon | Travelpro

Watch my Travelpro unpacking video !

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

Osprey Ozone Soft Side Luggage

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

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

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

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

Buy it: Amazon

Watch my Osprey review video!

Delsey Paris Helium DLX Softside Expandable Luggage, 20″

Delsey Carryon Softside Suitcase

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

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

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

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

Samsonite 20” and 24” 2-Piece Suitcase Set

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

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

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

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

Buy the set: Amazon

Travelpro Maxlite Air Hardside Expandable Checked Suitcase, 25”

Travelpro Maxlite Air Checked Suitcase

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

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

Delsey Paris Turenne Wheeled Trunk, 26″ 

Delsey Turenne Trunk Carry On Luggage

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

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

Buy it: Bloomingdale’s | Amazon (Set)

July Carry On Light Suitcase, 21”

July Carry On Luggage

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

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

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

Buy it: July

Tumi 19 Degrees Expandable Spinner Carry-On, 22″

Tumi Hardside Luggage

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

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

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

Buy it: Amazon | Nordstrom | Tumi

it luggage Census Softside Carry-On, 22″

IT Softside Luggage

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

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

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

Buy it: Amazon | Walmart (Set)

Briggs & Riley Baseline Expandable Carry-on, 22″

Briggs & Riley Softside Carry On Suitcase

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

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

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

Buy it: Amazon | Nordstrom |  Briggs & Riley

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

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

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

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

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

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58 comments.

Away The Bigger Carry On ftw in our house! Love our Away luggage and we have 4 of their suitcases between the 2 of us! lol! They make traveling fun!

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

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

I recently purchased a new piece of luggage to travel to Europe. I was concerned about the durability and was not familiar with the hard cases. The pros and cons about soft luggage versus the new hardshell luggage was extremely helpful. I could spend hours on this website. So much good information.

Love these ideas!

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

Thanks so much for the great ideas!

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

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

This is such a helpful article, thanks for sharing!

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

I absolutely love Away luggage!

I love my Travel Pro luggage.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hope this helps you in your search!

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

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

Thanks for all the great information!

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

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

Nice article. Thanks

So glad you enjoyed it! ?

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

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

Thanks Alex for the fast and helpful reply! 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks so much

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

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

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

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

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9 great suitcases worth the checked-bag fee

Update : Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

We're clearly going places now. But choosing which suitcase you're going to purchase for an upcoming trip remains no easy task.

Whether you're a road warrior who hasn't stopped moving or your luggage game could simply use an upgrade after the great pandemic pause, you'll want to make sure you do some research before sliding your credit card. And as eager as we all are to get back out there in the world, it's worth taking the time to read reviews and comparison shop before settling on your next suitcase.

Since this is a bag that will be stored under the plane and tossed on luggage carts, sturdiness is key. Your bag is going to be thrown around quite a bit, so you'll want to make sure it's up to the task.

You'll also want a suitcase with plenty of compartments and organizational components. You're likely packing for more than just a few days if you're checking a bag, so it's important that all your items can fit neatly inside.

But be sure to have some fun with this purchase, too! Your suitcase is an expression of your personality, so you'll want to get one that you feel matches your travel style and goals (luckily, there's a color and style for that).

Related: What your luggage brand says about you

Before you finalize your order though, do yourself a favor and check out our guides to airline shopping portals as well as the best credit cards for online shopping . That way, the gear you're buying for your next trip is helping you actually get there, too.

Our favorite suitcases right now:

Arlo skye the frame check-in, monos check-in large, delsey paris, clavel collection, 30" spinner, travelpro platinum elite 25" expandable spinner, briggs & riley sympatico large expandable spinner, samsonite winfield 2 hardside luggage, rimowa original check-in, nomatic check-in, away the large.

Why we love it: Arlo Skye was founded by Tumi and Louis Vuitton alums, so you know it's going to be good. It's sleek and stylish, complete with an aluminum frame and an impact-resistant polycarbonate shell. Our favorite feature, though, might be the two TSA-approved clasp locks that keep your belongings safe and secure, all without a zipper. Just be sure to remember your combination.

The details: 26.6 inches by 17.7 inches by 11.0 inches and weighs 10.5 pounds

Pricing: Arlo Skye bags are only available on their website — The Frame Check-in sells for $495.

Related: Luggage review: Arlo Skye The Check-In

Why we love it: Not only does the Monos Check-In Large come in ten different colors and patterns, but it has plenty of room to pack every essential for the whole family and has an ultra-sturdy telescopic handle that makes it a cinch to push and pull. It's so tough to decide which is or favorite feature, but it might just be that ergonomically designed handle and those whisper-quiet wheels that make you feel like you're on a catwalk in the airport. Monos is also the only Certified Neutral travel brand, so you can feel like you're doing a good travel deed, too, purchasing one of these babies.

The details: Mono's largest suitcase measures 30 inches by 21 inches by 11 inches, and weighs only 10.58 pounds

Pricing: Monos luggage is only available on the Monos website, and the Check-In Large starts at $367 (on sale now for a limited time for $330). Get 15 percent off luggage essentials like packing cubes and a protective luggage cover with every suitcase purchase.

Why we love it: DELSEY PARIS' CLAVEL collection is the lightest and brightest assortment of luggage the brand has touted yet. The company pioneered the use of polypropylene in luggage manufacturing — a material known for its resilience to heat, wear and tear. And the CLAVEL collection keeps things ultra-airy and spacious, with nine color options, too, and three sizes to choose from (we say go large). Unique features include the patented zip SECURITECH® technology that's far more durable than a conventional zipper and the bag's expandable main compartment that allows for maximum packing flexibility. We love the two separate packing compartments with tie-down straps, shoe pockets and a mesh divider to keep all your belongings in place while on the move.

The details: The CLAVEL collection 30" spinner measures 32.5 inches by 21.5 inches by 31.25 inches and weighs just 9.8 pounds.

Why we love it: Travelpro bags are beloved by road warriors near and far — seriously, just ask the next flight attendant you see. Travelpro makes a number of different designs, but we have a soft spot for the Platinum Elite (and not only because of its lifetime warranty against airline damage and fun color options like Bordeaux and Coastal Blue). The eight self-aligning spinner wheels roll like butter and you can easily pack two weeks' worth of wardrobe essentials and then some inside.

The details: The Travelpro Platinum Elite 25" Expandable Spinner measures 25 inches by 18 inches by 11.25 inches, and weighs 9.8 pounds, extra light considering all you can cram inside.

Why we love it: Part of the sleek, resilient, tech-friendly Sympatico collection, the Large Expandable Spinner is the bag for the traveler who can't bear to leave anything behind. The Makrolon® polycarbonate case is extremely durable, built to protect contents and stay scratch-and-scuff-free. The brand's innovative CX® compression-expansion system allows you to expand the bag for 25 percent more space — and then compress it back down to its original size. Additionally, Briggs & Riley's simple as that® guarantee means if the bag is ever broken or damaged, the company repairs it free of charge (no proof of purchase needed, no questions asked).

The details: The Sympatico Large Expandable Spinner measures 30 inches by 20 inches by 12 inches and weighs 13.5 pounds.

Why we love it: We have a feeling you're going to love this bag so much, you might feel a twinge of guilt after you leave it with the check-in agent. This four-wheeled spinner has a polycarbonate shell that makes it extremely durable. It also expands as needed, if you just have to stuff that extra sweater or pair of shoes in. If that's the case, the full-zip interior divider and organization pockets will really come in handy. The bag comes with a limited 10-year warranty and is available in a slew of shiny colors that include charcoal, deep blue, orange, purple, arctic pink and brushed carbon color, among others.

The details: 31 inches by 20 inches by 12.75 inches, and weighs just over 11 pounds.

Why we love it: This list wouldn't be complete without a mention of Rimowa. It's a cult favorite for a reason — well, a few reasons. Its design is iconic, yes, but this four-wheeled suitcase is also designed to withstand trip after trip. There's no zipper on this bag, either; just two TSA-approved locks to keep your belongings in check, as well as a height-adjustable flex-divider inside. If you do encounter bumps in the road, though, you're entitled to a five-year guarantee as well as hotel repairs at participating properties around the world (yes, really).

The details: 26 inches by 17.8 inches by 9.5 inches and just shy of 12 pounds.

Pricing: Such accolades don't come cheap. Expect to drop $1,270 to put one of these in your travel closet.

Related: Your guide to the Amex Platinum Saks Fifth Avenue credit

Why we love it: This isn't your standard check-in bag. This four-wheeled suitcase uses a magnetic compression system and full-perimeter expansion to keep your items secured and extremely organized. It has silent Hinomoto wheels, TSA-locking YKK zippers and a sleek, yet unusual design. It's virtually indestructible, too — just see what happens when you throw something at it. Go on, try it out.

The details: The Nomatic Check-in bag measures 29 inches by 18.5 inches by 9 inches, and weighs 12.3 pounds, making it one of the heavier suitcases on the list.

Related: Say goodbye to checked bag fees with our 7 favorite travel backpacks

Why we love it: You just can't go wrong with an Away bag . It's designed with frequent travelers in mind — with two compartments to house clothes and harder belongings, like shoes — and can withstand even your most rigorous trips, with its sturdy polycarbonate shell. As an added bonus, if you also have one of Away's carry-on suitcases, you can easily stow it inside the suitcase when you're not traveling, freeing up some storage space at home. Away bags also come in every possible color you could dream up — everything from classic black and white to light pink, brick red and deep hunter green. There are also a handful of limited edition colors and schemes, like the retro ski "Chalet" collection and an asphalt-colored suitcase with a mint-green zipper created in collaboration with the American Express® Green Card. Get them while you can. (These may no longer be available so be sure to check the Away site).

The details: Away's largest suitcase measures 29 inches by 20.5 inches by 12.5 inches and weighs 11.6 pounds.

Pricing: You can only buy Away's bags online , and The Large sells for $375.

The information for the Amex Green Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: Keep calm and carry on: Our 13 favorite travel carry-ons

Frequently Asked Questions

How to select the best checked luggage.

Since your checked luggage will likely get thrown around and banged up quite a bit, durability is key here. You'll want to make sure it's large enough to hold all of your belongings but not too large that you can't comfortably wheel it around the airport with you.

You'll also want to choose a suitcase that fits your travel style. If you're planning on more adventurous, rugged trips, you might be better off with a duffel. If you're staying in a luxury hotel with white-glove service, you won't mind leaving your luxury suitcase with a bellhop.

As you've seen here, suitcases can vary greatly in price. Keep in mind your budget as well as your personal style to find your perfect match.

Benefits of traveling with a checked bag

While many people love traveling with carry-ons due to their efficiency and ease, there's something to be said for checked bags, too.

They really come in handy for longer trips, especially ones where you're traveling for an extended period of time or require clothes and accessories for more than one type of trip. Checked bags allow you more flexibility, and not just in terms of the clothing you pack — you won't have to abide by TSA's 3-1-1 liquid rule , either.

But many airlines will charge you for checking a bag , so be sure to keep that in mind. Arm yourself with one of these credit cards to help avoid paying pesky fees for your suitcase.

Additional reporting by Terry Ward.

American Tourister

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

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

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

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

Our top picks for the best luggage brands

Shop all luggage at Samsonite

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

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

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

Worth a look:

Shop all luggage at Away

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

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

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

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

Shop all luggage at Travelpro

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

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

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

Shop all luggage at Monos

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

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

You can read our full Monos luggage review for more.

Shop all luggage at American Tourister

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

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

Shop all luggage at Rimowa

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

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

Read our full Rimowa Essential Lite carry-on review .

Shop all luggage at Briggs & Riley

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

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

Shop all luggage at Bric's

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

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

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

Read our full Bric's Capri luggage review .     

Shop all luggage at Tumi

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

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

Shop all luggage at Victorinox

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

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

Shop all luggage at Delsey

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

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

Is hard-sided or soft-sided luggage better?

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

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

What size luggage should I buy?

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

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

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

• Main content

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

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

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

What we considered:

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

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

What size can a carry-on bag be?

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

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

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

What can’t I take in my carry-on?

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

Are carry-on bags free?

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

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines

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

• United Airlines

Top recommendations:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. 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’ m a senior staff writer at Wirecutter, and ha ve been covering luggage and travel bag design here for about a decade. I’ve written guides to everything from packing cubes and checked luggage to duffle bags and underseat luggage .

For this guide, I’ve done the following over the years:

• I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags.
• I’ve 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.
• Like all Wirecutter journalists, I review and test products with complete editorial independence. I’m never made aware of any business implications of my editorial recommendations. Read more about our editorial standards .
• In accordance with Wirecutter standards and to avoid any conflict of interest, I don’t own stock or have any other financial interest in a company or industry that I cover or am likely to cover.

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).

It’s sized to maximize your space, but you do have options. Officially, the Platinum Elite measures 23 by 13.5 by 9 inches. Some sharp-eyed readers will notice that these actual dimensions, which include the handle height, exceed the 22-inch height limit for carry-ons on most domestic airlines. In reality, any luggage manufacturer maximizing its overhead allowances will push handles into the gray area between a case’s stated dimensions and its true overall dimensions. Travelpro, if anything, is being more honest in reporting the bag’s true 23.5-inch height than many other brands. As you can see in the photo below, the Travelpro’s frame fits into the American Airlines baggage caddy located at check-in, as it does in most standard-size caddies.

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 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 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.

In total, the Platinum Elite 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  and shipping to the repair facility (as long as you register the bag within 120 days of purchase). The sole other company we’ve seen offering this extensive a warranty is Briggs & Riley, whose carry-on suitcases start at about $500. Travelpro has 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.

It’s important to note that the Platinum Elite’s warranty coverage is “better” than the standard Travelpro warranty (including the one offered on our other pick from Travelpro, the Maxlite ) and most forum discussions we’ve read covering the subject over the years seem to agree that Travelpro’s service was prompt and painless. Of course, it’s better if nothing breaks in the first place.

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.
• Some vegan readers may dislike the leather accents.

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. For the most part, our online searches looking for user experiences with Away’s warranty have turned up overwhelmingly positive results.

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.
• Crain’s New York Business reported last year that Away is possibly exploring “strategic options including a sale,” which may muddy the waters around the brand’s overall future somewhat.

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.
• Like our top pick, the Carl Friedrik uses real leather accents, which may be a dealbreaker for some.

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. In fact, it’s this organization that separates the Yeti from—and makes it better luggage than—other top contenders in the duffle category, specially the Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel . However, Patagonia has a lifetime (and legendary) warranty. So if longevity is your priority, the Patagonia is our next best pick.

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 an adventure duffle with a lifetime warranty, but not much organization: Try the Patagonia Black Hole Matte Wheeled Duffel 40L . While more duffle than suitcase, this bag is sized for carry-on, comes with Patagonia’s excellent lifetime warranty , and it’s well constructed. It’s made of 100% recycled fabric, which includes the TPU laminate. And the wheel axle is easily repaired by anyone in the field, assuming they have spare parts. However, it lacks the organization of the Yeti Crossroads , with its many different compartments and pockets.

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 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 are the first and almost only choice.

What about Rimowa? I admit that over the last decade I’ve hadmthe occasional perverse urge to see if a $1,500 carry-on suitcase is worth the price. Rimowa is famous for a few things. The company has made aluminum luggage for nearly 100 years, and it invented the polycarbonate suitcase in 2008. So it is true that in many ways Rimowa has set the standard in two separate centuries.

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.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller : We considered this is a possible alternative to our Yeti hybrid pick . 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.

Travelpro Versapack+ and Crew Luggage lines: Both the Versapack+ and Crew luggage designs are absolutely fine: Consider them slightly stripped down versions of our top pick, the Platinum Elite. However neither have the extra warranty coverage—including against airline damage—that comes with the Platinum Elite.

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.

Level8 Voyageur series : This model features an extra-wide handle, which looks striking but doesn’t seem to offer many advantages over a regular handle—at least for carry-on luggage. In larger checked bags, we did notice that the wide handle offered a little more leverage when handling a bigger bag, but it seemed to hinder us with a carry-on.

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.

Paravel Aviator Carry-On:  Paravel is attempting to design luggage with recycled materials and some transparency as 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).

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

The Best Luggage Tags

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

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

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.

Are Away Carry-Ons Worth the Hype?

Although we still prefer the better durability of soft-sided luggage, if you want the look and feel of a hard-sided case, we recommend the Away Carry-On .

The Avid Traveler’s Guide to Buying Luggage

Whether you travel with a suitcase, backpack, weekender, or duffel, your luggage is an important companion for your adventures. use this buyer’s guide to help you find the perfect bag..

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What to Look for

What makes good luggage. . . good.

Luggage may not be the most glamorous part of travel. But after lugging a truly terrible suitcase (jammed wheels, half-collapsed handle), across stadium-sized airport terminals, or rummaging for a phone charger in the dark abyss of a backpack, you realize it’s not something to overlook. Taking the time to choose the best piece of luggage for your needs can help you pack better and quicker, take care of your stuff, and move around with ease.

At AFAR, our travel editors have tested dozens of suitcases, backpacks, duffels, and weekenders to find the best. Although there’s no “one bag to rule them all,” we always consider the following before adding a new piece of luggage to our collections:

Durability: Is it made well enough to survive the stress of travel—aggressive baggage handlers, trunk bumps—and use for years to come?

Organization: Are there shoe compartments? Water bottle pocket? Laptop sleeve? All of the above? Give us the features that make it easier to pack and keep track of our stuff.

Comfort: Does that backpack fit your torso and distribute weight well? Will your suitcase roll easily? We spend a lot of time walking with our luggage, and want to do so without a struggle.

Material: Adventurous travelers may look for a bag with a lightweight waterproof (or at least water-resistant) material, while those who always check will want a tough hardshell suitcase.

Size and weight: Whether you’re #teamcarryon only or prefer to check, airlines have size and weight restrictions for both. Carry-on only travelers will want to stick to a lightweight bag smaller than 22 x 14 x 9 inches. With checked luggage, you can go a bit larger, generally up to 29 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches.

Sustainability: We consider not only what’s best for our travels, but also for the environment and the teams making our bags. A wide range of brands, from the stylish suitcases of Paravel to outdoor-ready Patagonia, follow environmentally friendly practices, like using recycled water bottles to create fabric. They’re also committed to creating a safe, fair workplace for their employees. No matter what type of luggage you want, there’s a sustainable brand that makes it.

READ MORE Carry-on vs. Checked Luggage—Which is Best?

How to Pack a Suitcase

Hard vs. Soft Luggage—Which Is Superior?

Photos courtesy of Away and Rimowa

The Best Luggage Brands

While all of us at AFAR are frequent travelers, we don’t share the same style or luggage preference. Some of us prefer to always carry-on, while others invest in a checked bag with plenty of extra room for souvenirs, extra shoes, and all. that. baby. gear. Even different trips call for different luggage: A small, hard-shell suitcase might be perfect in Tokyo, while a travel backpack works better in far-flung, rugged corners of the globe—like gorilla trekking in Rwanda.

Still, some luggage brands stand out from the rest: ones we return to again and again for well-made, reliable luggage designed to meet the needs of the travelers who carry them.

In no particular order, these are the best luggage brands our crew of frequent travelers have tried and loved:

1. Paravel : Sustainably-made luggage that’s also super stylish

2. Roam : Fully customizable hard-shell suitcases that are made in the USA

3. Lo & Sons : Durable canvas and nylon weekend bags from a family-owned brand

4. Rimowa : Luxury German brand known for its aluminum suitcases

5. Patagonia : Adventure-ready duffel bags made sustainably

6. Baboon to the Moon : Tough duffels with fun colors and patterns

7. Calpak : Affordable hard-shell luggage in fun patterns and colors

8. Herschel Supply Co. : Classic canvas backpacks and duffels with smart leather details

9. Travelpro : Reliable soft-shell spinners beloved by flight attendants

10. Away : Hard-shell spinners in a rainbow of limited-edition colors

11. Fjällräven : Adventure-ready bags that don’t look out of place in a city

12. Delsey : Chic French luggage that won’t break the bank

13. Tumi : Luxury luggage that is board-room ready

14. Steamline : Vintage-inspired luggage that will look great on Instagram

15. Piquadro : High-quality Italian leather bags

For the full story, read The 15 Best High-Quality Luggage Brands We Love .

The 19 Best High-Quality Luggage Brands We Love

Paravel Is Bringing Style and Sustainability to the Luggage Industry

Fjällräven Just Launched Its First Line of Upcycled Gear

Best Bags to Buy

Photo courtesy of Roam

Carry-on luggage

While size and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage vary by airline, a bag that’s 22 x 14 x 9 inches or smaller will fit in the overhead bin of most planes flown by domestic carriers. (Tip: Get a full breakdown in our guide to carry-on luggage restrictions .) If you plan to use a carry-on in addition to a checked bag, small duffels and backpacks are the easiest to carry alongside a roller bag.

But for those who use their carry-on as their only piece of luggage, space, organization, and ease of carry are all important considerations. Also: It doesn’t hurt to consider checked-bag friendly features (TSA locks, hard exterior), just in case you’re asked to check your bag at the gate.

Whether this is your main piece of luggage or something you plan to use alongside a checked bag, here are our top picks for carry-on bags:

Best overall : Jaunt Carry-On by Roam Buy now: $495, roamluggage.com

Runner up : The Frame Carry-On by Arlo Skye Buy now: $450, arloskye.com

Best budget buy : Ultralight Black Hole Duffel 30L by Patagonia Buy now: $69, patagonia.com ; backcountry.com ; huckberry.com

Best investment piece : Latitude International Carry-On by Tumi Buy now: $1,150, tumi.com

Best ecofriendly option : Aviator Carry-On by Paravel Buy now: $255, tourparavel.com

For more details about these bags and other options, read The Best Carry-On Luggage .

READ MORE The Best Carry-On Luggage for 2021

A Guide to Carry-On Luggage Size Restrictions

Everything You Need to Know About the TSA’s Liquids Rule

Photos courtesy of Matador and Cotopaxi

Travel backpacks

Sometimes, backpacks are just a better bag for the adventure. Perhaps you’re traveling far afield, hopping bush planes with restrictive luggage limits and walking dirt roads on the way to your hotel. Or, you’re exploring small European towns where an elevator to your third-floor Airbnb is not guaranteed, and a roller bag is sure to wake up the neighborhood on those quaint (but oh-so-loud) cobblestone streets.

Fortunately, many brands have recognized the need for a backpack specifically designed for travel (as opposed to hiking), creating a wealth of options for the suitcase-adverse. Multitudes of pockets, main compartments that open like suitcases, and stylish, urban-inspired designs all differentiate these backpacks from their outdoors counterparts. At the same time, you’ll still find features that work for both use cases: waterproof exteriors for rainy days, hip belts to help distribute weight, and comfortable, padded straps.

Do you prefer a backpack over a suitcase? Here are our top picks for travel backpacks:

Best overall : Allpa 35L Travel Pack by Cotopaxi Buy now: $200, cotopaxi.com

Runner up : SEG30 Segmented Backpack by Matador Buy now: $150, matadorup.com

Best budget buy : Migrate Duffel 40L by Eagle Creek Buy now: $79, eaglecreek.com

Best investment piece : Travel Backpack 45L by Peak Design Buy now: $300, peakdesign.com

Best ecofriendly option : Setout Backpack 35L by Tortuga Buy now: $179, tortugabackpacks.com

For more details about these bags and other options, read The Best Travel Backpacks .

READ MORE The Best Travel Backpacks to Shoulder for Your Next Trip

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Is My Go-To Travel Bag

The Best Laptop Backpacks for Travel

Photo courtesy of Calpak

Large, checked luggage

Whether you need a little extra room or simply prefer to let the airlines lug your luggage to the plane, you’ll want a bag designed for checking. Look for features like locking zippers, tuck-away backpack straps, and sturdy external materials to keep your belongings intact.

Also consider size and weight. While airlines have larger size restrictions for checked luggage than carry-on, they still need to be under a certain size and weight to avoid paying a fee at the check-in counter. Most airlines will charge an excess baggage fee for anything over 50 pounds (fully packed) and/or 62 linear inches (to calculate your bag’s linear inches, add its dimensions. For example, a bag that’s 29 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches will be 29 + 20.5 + 12.5 = 62.)

According to AFAR editors, the best luggage for checking are:

Best overall : Aviator Grand by Paravel Buy now: $315, tourparavel.com

Runner up : The Large by Away Buy now: $295, awaytravel.com

Best budget buy : Ambeur Large Luggage by Calpak Buy now: $195, calpaktravel.com

Best investment piece : Original Check-in L by Rimowa Buy now: $1,400, rimowa.com

Best ecofriendly option : V4 Extended Trip Expandable Packing Case by Tumi Buy now: $750, tumi.com

For more details about these bags and other options, read The Best Checked Luggage .

READ MORE The Best Checked Luggage for #TeamNoCarryOn

What You Should Know About Shipping Versus Checking Luggage

Yeti Just Launched a New Line of Ultra-Durable Travel Bags

Photos courtesy of Lo & Sons and Herschel

Weekend bags

For quick trips and weekend getaways, there’s no need to pull out your wheeled suitcase. Instead, reach for something that has just enough room for a day or two of belongings, is comfortable to carry, and—of course—is full of organizational features (especially if you have no time to waste on unpacking).

Some of these can also double as a personal item on flights. The dimensions of the underseat space can vary depending on the kind of airplane you’re flying on and therefore, so do the size restrictions. For example, United allows personal items that are under 36 linear inches on domestic flights, whereas American Airlines has a limit of 40 linear inches. If you want your weekender to pull double duty, pay attention to the size.

For quick trips and weekend getaways, here are the best weekend bags and weekenders:

Best overall : The Catalina Deluxe Small by Lo & Sons Buy now: From $129 (was $215), loandsons.com

Runner up : Arcane Duffel Pack by Osprey Buy now: $130, osprey.com

Best budget buy : Novel Duffle Bag by Herschel Buy now: $90, herschel.com

Best investment piece : Weekender by Paravel Buy now: $295, tourparavel.com

Best ecofriendly option : Earth Bag Premium by Hamilton Perkins Collection Buy now: $158, hamiltonperkins.com

For more details about these bags and other options, read The Best Weekend Bags .

READ MORE The 16 Best Weekend Bags for Serious Travelers

These Are My Ride-or-Die Travel Bags

Rothy’s Launches Its First Travel Bags

Accessories and Tips

Photo courtesy of Paravel

Tips for packing, organizing, and taking care of your luggage

Choosing the right piece of luggage is the first step to packing light, packing well, and being prepared for challenges en route—be it swiftly removing your laptop from your carry-on, or keeping your belongings safe while getting tossed from plane to baggage carousel.

Improve your packing even further with these tips and essential luggage accessories:

1. Keep things organized with packing cubes

While packing cubes won’t necessarily save you space, they do keep the contents of your bag organized and make it easy to find what you need quickly—a packing practice we know Marie Kondo would approve of .

>> Read: The Best Packing Cubes

2. Separate your shoes with a shoe bag

No one wants their dirty shoes nestled up against a clean, cashmere sweater. If your bag doesn’t come with a dedicated shoe compartment (like the Lo & Sons weekender bag ), invest in a shoe bag to separate your footwear from the rest of your items.

>> Read : Why Shoe Bags Are Essential

3. Use a toiletry bag—or two

Toiletry bags help with organization, sure, but they also protect your clothes in the unfortunate case of an in-flight shampoo explosion (hello, air pressure) or a not-quite-tightly-closed makeup container. If you really want to get organized, though, the Home Edit team recommends “separating your hair products, skincare products, and cosmetics into different bags so you don’t have to dig through your makeup just to find your floss at night.”

>> Read : The Best Toiletry Bags and Dopp Kits

4. Clean your bags between trips

“Your most trusted travel companion deserves a thorough cleaning after every trip,” says AFAR contributor Maggie Fuller. Use her guide to give your suitcase, backpack, and other travel gear a good scrub-down.

>> Read : How to Clean a Suitcase

Additional reporting by Kyana Moghadam, Kelly Bastone, Katherine LaGrave, Brooke Vaughan, Maggie Fuller, and Sarah Buder.

Products we write about are independently vetted and recommended by our editors. AFAR may earn a commission if you buy through our links, which helps support our independent publication.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

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The Best Luggage for Wherever You’re Headed

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The Best Carry-On for Most People Away Carry-On Read more

An Upgraded Carry-On Aer Carry-On Read more

Best Budget Carry-On Travelpro Maxlite 5 Read more

Best Aluminum Bag Rimowa Original Cabin Read more

When you're going on a trip, packing your bags scratches a very specific mental itch. Do you like breezing to your gate with only minutes to spare, bypassing the checked-baggage line and sweeping through the Global Entry prescreened traveler security lane? Are you on a business trip and bringing makeup and camera-ready clothes? Or are you traveling with small children and struggling to keep track of all their stuffies, snacks, grandparent gifts, and innumerable electronics cords for tiny headphones and remote-controlled sharks?

In the past year, I've flown and driven thousands of miles. I've hopped on quick flights for work, struggled through cross-country travel with my spouse and kids, and cinched duffel bags on the rooftop rack of my car for weekend trips. The WIRED Gear team and I have taken all these bags on at least two flights minimum, overstuffed them, checked them, shoved them into overhead bins, hastily unpacked and repacked them in car trunks and on airport floors, and most importantly, let our children ride on them from baggage claim to the Uber. Whether you're slinging a duffel into a car trunk for a weekend trip or packing for a whirlwind jaunt across Asia, we've got you covered. Need a bag for your passport or groceries? Don't forget to check out our other guides, like the Best Laptop Backpacks , Best Laptop Totes , and the Best Recycled Bags , for more picks.

Updated July 2024: We added the Rimowa carry on, the Beis carry on, the Tumi Velocity backpack, the Lojel Cubo Large, the Aer carry on, the State Logan carry on, and the Calpak medium checked luggage. We also updated the information on sizing and checked links and prices.

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

The Best Carry-On for Most People

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

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

★ Alternatives: We've tried similar suitcases by Monos ($255) and July ($295) . July's aluminum bumpers protect fragile belongings, but they do add weight. The Monos's handle rolls out more smoothly, but the July's pebbled surface doesn't show scuffs as badly. I have checked both of these suitcases multiple times on multiple cross-country trips, and both have also been ridden by two small children with no damage.

An Upgraded Carry-On

As the Away's ubiquity shows, it works perfectly well for the vast majority of people. But if you find flying to be as unpleasant an experience as I do, a few upgrades might be worth the expense to make it more endurable. We think two recent luggage launches are worth your attention. Reviewer Nena Farrell loves the viral Beis carry-on , which, in addition to coming in a variety of cute, distinctive colors, has extras like a cushy handle, a built-in weight gauge, and a retractable strap that lets you clip a backpack or duffel to the front, in case your personal item doesn't have a pass-through.

I also recently tested Aer’s latest luggage launch. I like Aer’s better than Beis' for a few reasons. The design is sleeker, without ridges to attract scratches and dirt. Although I rolled and spun it side by side with Calpak, July, and Monos luggage, I did not find that Aer's Hinamoto ball bearing system rolled more quietly or smoothly. However, Aer's carry-on has wheel locks. This was crucial when I found myself in the luggage section of a rental shuttle, trying to manage four four-wheeled suitcases on an overcrowded ride from the airport to the rental car outpost while my spouse and children relaxed in the last three remaining seats. As someone who tends to just toss an AirTag into the shoe pocket of their luggage, where it accidentally falls out halfway across the world, I also like the tiny dedicated AirTag pocket.

★ Alternative: If sustainability is your bag (haha), Paravel offers an Aviator carry-on ($425) that touts itself as the world's first carbon-neutral carry-on; it has an interior lining made of recycled plastic bottles, a telescoping handle made of recycled aluminum, and vegan leather trim to help it stand out from all the plain black bags at the airport. Reviewer Jaina Grey fell in love with its roomy interior and durable, anti-scuff hard-shell exterior.

Best Budget Carry-On

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

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

Best Aluminum Bag

The publicist who sent me the iconic Rimowa carry-on for testing warned me that it had been used for promotional photos and might have "some minor patina." This comment was offered with mild apology which I assured her was unnecessary; getting a Rimowa with a few scratches and dings is like buying a preseasoned cast iron pan. Rimowa cases have a cult following among travelers precisely because of how elegantly they wear their miles. The whole point of these nearly indestructible anodized aluminum boxes is to batter them in Bali, scrape them up in Sicily, then cover the wounds in stickers. In fact, a vintage Rimowa with dings and vintage stickers will probably cost you more on eBay than new, though it's more fun to make every dent yourself. I tested the bag on a trip to New York and appreciated the fine-tuned details in construction (the seal is tight enough I had no qualms about it sitting on a rainy tarmac) and, especially, the uncommon confidence and balance of the roller wheels. The Rimowa feels indestructible, and every attempt to break it only improves that patina, which makes it an ideal travel companion. —Martin Cizmar

Best Checked Bag

For a large checked bag, Lojel's Cubo Large has one feature that was invaluable. It has a flat-top opening, which means you can open it like a box, instead of swinging out both sides like a clamshell. I could not believe how much easier this made it to access all of our stuff. On a recent family vacation, I checked the Cubo Large, put it in the trunk of a Chrysler Pacifica, drove to my brother's house, drove to the beach, and kept four peoples' items organized in one hotel room for a week. I could open the suitcase and grab my kid's sandals without pulling the whole suitcase out of the trunk. Once we got to our destination, it took up half as much floor space as any other suitcase. When it weighed about a pound over the checked bag weight limits, I could discreetly unzip it and take out my Chacos without opening a clamshell and displaying all my belongings for all of United's employees to see.

Granted, the stitching on the interior organizational pockets is not so solid for the price. My kids almost instantly busted the button that holds the lid up. Also, a 10-year warranty sounds good, but almost every other manufacturer offers a limited lifetime warranty that covers common problems, like broken zippers. However, this flat-top opening is a great feature that's worth recommending, especially if you have large, awkward items that wouldn't fit in one side of a clamshell suitcase.

★ Alternative: On this trip, I also checked the Calpak Evry Medium Luggage ($245) , and it did the job for half the price. It has a polycarbonate shell, interior organizational pockets, and a TSA-approved lock.

Best Backpack

Tumi’s iconic, expensive backpacks are the platonic ideal for airplane travel. The latest one is the Velocity, which is a collaboration with McLaren Automotive, and the sleek design is meant to evoke the aerodynamic lines of McLaren's racing cars. The shell is made from CX6, a type of woven carbon fiber that is engineered to be both super strong and incredibly light. This means that the bag has a firm structure that doesn't look saggy when it's empty, or stuffed like a turkey when it's full. It can fit a surprising amount of stuff—just unzip the front panel and it swings open like a glove compartment.

Like a lot of Tumi's backpacks, it comes with a bunch of travel-related extras, like a luggage tag, an add-a-bag sleeve, and a luggage-inspired leather grip handle. The padded laptop compartment fits laptops up to 15 inches (although surprisingly, the compartment is not suspended, so be careful putting it down). I filled it full of books and dragged it on our concrete walk, and I still couldn't scratch the surface. In keeping with the bag's slim profile, however, the water bottle pockets are extremely tight. It's also a little embarrassing flying with a $1,600 backpack in economy. Tumi has a wide array of equally attractive and useful laptop backpacks for less than half the price.

Best Kids Suitcase

For the past two years, I've found myself being the lone parent while flying with my two children, now 7 and 9. Unfortunately, trying to cheap out on my kids' suitcases has resulted in a garage full of dead luggage. My children busted the zippers on this generic rolling backpack off Amazon (which was much cheaper than when I bought it) almost instantly. The Target version is only 6 pounds and very cute, but the plastic shell and hardware is as fragile as a bird egg.

I would've saved so much time, aggravation, and money if I'd just bought them both State bags at the start. The Logan comes in a mini, carry-on, and checked size, and the carry-on has more or less the same dimensions as my carry-on. However, it has a number of child-friendly features. The prints are amazing; my kids love theirs. The front pocket is big enough for a snack box and their iPads, which means I can quickly usher them to their seats and unpack everything into the front pocket. There are two straps on the side that are ideal for tucking in Yellow Blanky and Truck Blanky when we have to move quickly at the gate. And it still weighs less than my own carry-on.

Best Convertible Bag

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

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

Best Lifetime Bag

Do you only want to buy one suitcase and never think about it, ever again? Briggs & Riley is one of the few companies with a lifetime unlimited warranty. I bought a Briggs & Riley carry-on as my first and only post-college purchase. Right now, it has lasted over 20 years. Periodically, I bring it into the one Briggs & Riley-approved dealership in my town to get a zipper pull put back on, and it's fixed for free in a few days. Its components are top-of-the-line. The face fabric is a heavy-duty ballistic nylon that’s water-repellent and abrasion-resistant. After having been dragged all over the globe, from the Philippines to Turkey to Iceland, the gleaming red is just as bright. The low-profile wheels nor handles have never broken. The grab handles are also luxuriously smooth and padded, and there's an interior folding garment bag for my husband's suits. The only downside is that at 9.3 pounds, it’s pretty heavy.

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

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On

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

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

Best Work Bag

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

★ Alternatives: We have plenty of recommendations in our guide to the Best Laptop Totes . L.L. Bean's boat tote ($35) is the iconic affordable, durable pick, but gear director Michael Calore's pick is the roomy zip hunter's tote ($55) .

Best Duffel Bag

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

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

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

Duffels are a huge and ever-expanding category. We also like durable Red Oxx duffels ($300) , and if you've ever gone to a popular outdoor destination, like Yosemite or Everest, you've probably seen stacks of North Face Base Camp duffels . This is the quintessential expedition bag. My own personal bag is the OnSight Tarmac EPO , but the company no longer exists.

Best for Camping

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

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

A Good Emergency Go Bag

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

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

Other Bags We Like

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

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

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

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

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

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L for $107 : This bag weighs 1 pound, 13 ounces, which is only slightly heavier than air. It also has backpack straps that stow away in a front pocket.

Skyway Epic Carry-On for $80 : At 7.1 pounds, the Epic is an average weight. The handle is a wee bit more finicky than our top pick, and the Travelpro's wheels glide a little more nicely. Still, the Epic is a solid choice.

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

Solgaard Carry-On Closet Plus for $275 : It's a tiny bit over what most airlines list as the maximum dimensions, but the difference is so small that it's accepted 95 percent of the time. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe praises its optional clip-in closet clothing organizer, which makes for efficient packing. The built-in TSA lock is easy to use, and there's an internal power-bank pocket. This suitcase is included in our Favorite Recycled Products guide.

Bags We Don’t Like

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

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

How to Pick a Bag

Nowadays, there are so many baggage options that narrowing down which bag you need can be difficult. Here are a few factors that might make a difference:

• Two or four wheels? Very few people who try the maneuverability of a four-wheeled spinner suitcase want to go back. Four-wheeled spinners are so much easier to maneuver in crowded airports or down airplane aisles. However, two wheels are easier if you're pulling it over rough terrain. Also, they don't roll away.
• Hard-shell or soft-sided? Fabric bags tend to be lighter. They're also more flexible, so they can squish down to fit tighter overhead bins or stretch to accommodate that souvenir sweatshirt that you couldn't resist. A hard-shell suitcase provides more protection, but has no give. If you travel with a lot of fragile items, consider an aluminum suitcase, which offers the most protection of all.
• Use a tape measure and a scale. Whether your bag fits in the overhead bin increasingly depends on both where you're flying (domestic or international) and what airline you choose. Always check the airline's weight and dimension requirements before packing your bag.

A Few Travel Accessories

If you're packing a bag, a few of these items are helpful.

Craftsman Measuring Tape for $14 : Always measure the dimensions of your bag! There's nothing worse than trying to walk on a plane and having to get out line because the gate attendant decided your bag was too big.

Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale for $15 : Weigh your bag before you leave the house, too. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even American airlines will be unforgiving about weight for checked bags.

Apple AirTag for $24 : Drop an AirTag into an interior pocket to make sure you and your luggage are reunited at your destination. Don't have an iPhone? We suggest the Chipolo in our guide to the Best Bluetooth Trackers .

Eagle Creek Specter Pack-It Cubes Three-Pack for $35 : Keep everything inside your bags organized by separating it into different cubes. You shouldn't have to hunt through a pile of socks to find your bathing suit.

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

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

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

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

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The Best Carry-On Luggage, Road Tested By Our Travel Editor

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The best carry-on luggage is both efficient and stylish, letting you keep personal items by your side so you don’t have to worry about anything getting lost in transit. As a frequent flyer who always tries to avoid checking a bag, I traveled with 12 different hardside and softside suitcases from a number of highly rated travel brands including Monos , Away and Béis . After testing these suitcases on multiple trips over the past six months, I selected the Away The Bigger Carry-On as the best carry-on bag, thanks to its generous capacity, great organization and built-in compression. It provides enough packing space for a full week and feels solid and sturdy at a reasonable price.

The best carry-on luggage from brands like Briggs & Riley, Monos and Away let you efficiently keep ... [+] your personal items by your side in style.

Other luggage that scored high marks include the Monos Carry-On Pro —a hardside option with a spacious laptop compartment—as well as the Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Spinner , a durable softside suitcase with plenty of pockets. Below, I’ve rounded up the 10 best carry-on luggage to bring with you on your next trip.

• Best Carry-On Luggage Overall: Away The Bigger Carry-On
• Best Carry-On Luggage For International Travel: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Spinner
• Best Carry-On Luggage With Laptop Compartment: Monos Carry-On Pro
• Most Spacious Carry-On Luggage: Briggs & Riley Sympatico Essential Spinner
• Best Softside Carry-On Luggage: Briggs & Riley Essential Baseline Carry-On
• Best Expandable Carry-On Luggage: Béis The Carry-On Roller
• Best Carry-On Luggage For Style: Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus
• Best Carry-On Luggage With Lock Closure: Carl Friedrik The Carry-On
• Best Carry-On Luggage With Locking Wheels: Aer Carry-On
• Best Carry-On Underseat Luggage: Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage

Best Carry-On Luggage Overall

Spacious and durable at a great price, away the bigger carry-on.

As Forbes Vetted's senior travel editor, I oversee coverage on hotels, cruises, luggage and related travel accessories. I have been writing and editing travel content for over 7 years, during which I have visited 35 countries, stayed at numerous hotel properties and sailed on all types of cruise lines. Prior to joining Forbes, I was a senior editor at TripSavvy, editing robust destination guides and writing daily travel news and features. I have also served in editorial roles at ABC News and Good Morning America. 

For product reviews, gift ideas, and latest deals, Subscribe to the Forbes Finds newsletter .

I’m the Forbes Vetted executive editor. After serving in the Air Force where I operated satellites and planned space launches, I have had a varied career as a tech journalist, wildlife photographer, scuba instructor and podcaster (including co-hosting the popular Battlestar Recaptica). As a diver, I've traveled extensively across Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico and the Pacific.

I am the author of nearly three dozen books about photography, mobile tech, and more; I’ve even authored an interactive storybook for kids. I spent eight years as a content lead at Microsoft where I helped to develop Windows Vista and Windows 7. Before joining Forbes Vetted, I contributed to many popular websites including CNET, PC World and Business Insider. 

Our score: 10 | Dimensions: 22.7 x 15.4 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 7.93 pounds | Capacity: 47.9 liters | Colors: 9 total, including Coast Blue and Olive Green | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

• Six-to-eight-day trips
• A thoughtful interior compression system
• A comfortable underside grab handle
• You prefer a suitcase with a front pocket

I have been using Away suitcases since 2018, and I often recommend the brand’s bags to others as a great option for those looking to dip their toes into hardside luggage (first-time Away user and Forbes Vetted senior reviews editor Anna Perling tested The Carry-On on trips to Paris, Austin and New York earlier this year).

I traveled with the Away Bigger Carry-On a ski trip to St. Moritz, Switzerland and filled it with ... [+] over a week's worth of bulky clothes.

The brand’s Bigger Carry-On is the most-used suitcase in my carry-on collection. Its compression system is truly strong enough to squeeze multiple overstuffed packing cubes into the bag; it also has comfortable grab handles, an integrated TSA lock and great accessories, like a laundry bag. Away’s website states that this suitcase could fit up to nine outfits and enough clothing for up to seven days, but I feel its capacity is undersold. I traveled with this bag on a ski trip to Switzerland, where I couldn’t check a suitcase due to having back-to-back connections on different airlines (I wouldn’t recommend doing this, by the way). I was able to stuff the Bigger Carry-On with eight days’ worth of bulky sweaters and layers, with no zippers harmed in the process.

At almost 48 liters, it offers incredible capacity for being a carry-on suitcase—I’ve slid it into dozens of overhead bins on a variety of different airlines and never had a problem with its size. The only other suitcases on this list that beat it in terms of capacity is the Briggs & Riley Sympatico , which clocks in at 52 liters, and the Béis Carry-On Roller , which offers 61 liters of space—but only after you expand it. Since the Away Bigger Carry-On is not expandable, it’s all the more impressive that it can pack in so many things. It’s also one-third of the price of a Briggs & Riley bag, so when it comes to true bang for your buck, the Away Bigger Carry-On tops them all.

Best Carry-On Luggage For International Travel

A durable exterior with tug-proof zippers, travelpro platinum elite carry-on spinner.

Our score: 10 | Dimensions:  21 × 14 × 9 inches   |  Weight:  7.8 pounds   |  Capacity: 46 liters | Colors: 8 total, including Shadow Black and Bordeaux   |  Warranty:  5-year limited warranty; covers cost of repair for damage by airline if registered within first 120 days of purchase

• Five-to-seven-day trips
• Durable material and sturdy zippers
• Two large exterior pockets
• You prefer a modern aesthetic

A carry-on for international travel needs to be constructed with durability in mind: The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Spinner’s exterior fabric feels so sturdy that I confidently recommend it for longer, international trips. (This suitcase is also featured on our list of best luggage as the top pick for international travel, based on additional testing by Forbes Vetted’s editorial director, Brinda Ayer .) The chrome zippers, in particular, feel extra durable and tug-proof. After stuffing it with clothes on three different trips, I understood why this brand is a favorite of pilots and flight attendants.

I chose the Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Spinner as the best softside carry-on option due to ... [+] its durable exterior and sturdy zippers.

The carry-on is outfitted with interior compression straps, accessory pockets, a water-resistant toiletry bag and a removable suiter system. The handle has a rubber contour grip and four adjustable heights, plus a top handlebar with padding that helped me hoist the suitcase into overhead bins with ease.

Compared to other chic, minimalist options that made our list—, like the Béis , Monos and Away hardside suitcasesthis bag certainly looks more utilitarian than fashionable. Other softside options on the market have a bit more panache, like the Briggs & Riley Essential Baseline . However, for a well-made bag that is built to handle international travel, fans of softside luggage would be remiss to cross this option off the list based on style alone.

Best Carry-On Luggage With Laptop Compartment

Sturdy and dependable, monos carry-on pro.

Our score: 8 | Dimensions: 22 × 14 × 9 inches | Weight: 7.8 pounds | Capacity: 36 liters | Colors: 11 total, including Desert Taupe and Blue Haze | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

• Three-to-four-day trips
• Smart organization and built-in compression
• Laptop users seeking a padded front pocket
• You tend to overpack

At under 8 pounds, the Monos Carry-On Pro is fairly lightweight, yet feels far from flimsy. I’m so impressed by this suitcase’s satisfying heft that I asked several friends to roll it around to experience it themselves. They all agreed: This suitcase feels dependable enough to leave momentarily standing without fear of it rolling down a hill.

Its polycarbonate shell feels equally tough. I traveled with this suitcase on three different domestic trips and noticed barely any scuffing afterward, despite the fact that I was using one of the lighter colors, Sage Green. That durable exterior provides a layer of confidence around the suitcase’s laptop compartment, which is spacious enough to hold a 15-inch laptop along with a few other small travel accessories. The bag’s 360-degree spinner wheels are incredibly smooth, and I appreciate that its telescopic handle stayed firm after blocks of bouncing across Boston’s cobblestone streets. This suitcase also comes with a helpful laundry bag and two shoe bags to make packing easier, and an integrated TSA lock for enhanced security.

The brand’s website advertises this bag as spacious enough for five-day trips, but the bag’s laptop pocket does subtract some of that space, which is why I deducted points. After multiple trips, I would recommend three-to-four days as the sweet spot. Another thing to note is that the handles tend to lock up if you pack this suitcase to the brim, so overpackers may want to opt for an expandable bag, like the Briggs & Riley or Béis suitcases that also made this list.

Most Spacious Carry-On Luggage

Premium option with robust capacity.

Briggs & Riley

Briggs & Riley Sympatico Essential Spinner

Our score: 10 | Dimensions:  22 × 14 × 9 inches   |  Weight:  8.8 pounds   |  Capacity: 52 liters | Colors: 2 total, including Olive and Black   |  Warranty:  Lifetime warranty

• Durable exterior
• Pop-up expansion system
• You’re on a budget

As a premium travel brand, Briggs & Riley suitcases don’t come cheap, but there’s a reason the brand’s bags have sustained a loyal following. These suitcases are well-made, durable and long-lasting—meaning that one investment can serve you on many trips for years to come.

The Briggs & Riley Sympatico has handles latched onto the back of the suitcase, giving you extra ... [+] packing room.

Briggs & Riley recently released a redesign of one of its classic suitcase styles, the Sympatico, which I traveled with on recent trips to London and Portland, Maine. Built with a sturdy, shock-absorbing Makrolon polycarbonate, the bag’s exterior shell has an aesthetically pleasing gloss to it and feels solid and durable. After my trips (both of which involved dragging the suitcase up and down many curbs and sliding it into overhead bins), the bag showed no signs of any scratches or dents. Aside from a durable shell and built-in TSA lock, this bag had the most space of any of the hardside bags I’ve recently used. This is because the bag’s handle is latched onto the back of the suitcase, rather than built in through the suitcase, which would have taken up valuable packing room. In addition to that extra space, this bag is also expandable. Using its pop-up expansion feature, I was able to squeeze over a week’s worth of clothing for my Portland trip—and could have even squeezed in another shirt or two.

Compared to other contenders on this list, the only suitcases that come close in terms of capacity are Away’s Bigger Carry-On and Béis’ Carry-On Roller . While both of those bags are also made of polycarbonate, Briggs & Riley’s Makrolon polycarbonate is far more scratch- and dent-proof, making it worth the investment if you want your bag to stay pristine.

Best Softside Carry-On Luggage

High-end, expandable fabric pick, briggs & riley essential baseline carry-on.

Our score: 10 | Dimensions: 22 × 14 × 9 inches | Weight: 10 pounds | Capacity: 37 to 48 liters | Colors: 4 total, including Plum and Navy | Warranty: Lifetime warranty

• Business travelers
• Those who want a suitcase that will last for years
• Overpackers
• You’re traveling with fragile items

I mostly travel with hardside luggage due to it feeling more impact-resistant, but I tested the Briggs & Riley Essential Baseline after it came highly recommended by other travel editors and writers I know, as well as my colleagues. (This model was named the best softside pick in our roundup of the best luggage , and was additionally tested by Forbes Vetted branded content editor Luke Fater .) 

I was impressed by its great features—the built-in garment folder in particular came in handy for wrinkle-free dresses. A large pocket on the front allows for quick, easy access to a sweater or scarf, while a smaller, additional pocket is designed to hold your cell phone and charging cables. Much like the Sympatico , it has a pop-up expandable feature, but due to it soft exterior, I felt that I could squeeze even more clothing into it. 

While it’s definitely pricey, friends of mine who have used it have told me that their bags have lasted for years. I also think it has a very sophisticated look, despite it having a more minimalist exterior than the Sympatico. This suitcase is the heaviest option on this list, coming in at 10 pounds; if you end up needing to check your bag, you’ll want to keep this in mind so you stay within your airline’s luggage weight requirements. 

Best Expandable Carry-On Luggage

Extra room and a comfortable grip, béis the carry-on roller.

Our score: 9 | Dimensions:  21 × 14.5 × 9.8 inches   |  Weight:  8.4 pounds   |  Capacity: 61 liters | Colors: 10 total, including Beige and Maple   |  Warranty:  Limited lifetime warranty

• Built-in weight indicator and two inches of expansion
• A soft and comfortable handle
• You need a lightweight option

For cold weather trips or vacations that call for layers, an expandable suitcase is key. Béis makes one of the best expandable carry-on suitcases on the market today, with two inches of extra space to allow you to stuff in what you need (and maybe even what you don’t). I’ve traveled with this bag on several week-long trips and filled it with sweaters, jackets and more—and still had room left over after I zipped open its expandable space. The suitcase also comes with a built-in weight limit indicator: When you lift it by its side-carry handle, a red mark will appear if the luggage is over 50 pounds, meaning you’ll know in advance if your bag exceeds most airlines’ weight limit, giving you a chance to take a few items out rather than pay a fee.

The Béis Carry-On roller expands up to two inches, making it perfect for overpackers.

The suitcase’s cushioned handle is another reason why this bag has earned its spot in my permanent rotation. Oftentimes, I’ll find myself lugging a heavy suitcase for blocks and blocks, and the soft, plush fabric attached to this handle eases the journey. Factor in smooth-rolling wheels, an integrated TSA combination lock and a variety of great colors, and this bag is a true winner. At over eight pounds, this bag is just a bit heavier than Away’s The Bigger Carry-On, which is why I didn’t select it as my best overall pick.

While the Away The Bigger Carry-On is also incredibly spacious, travelers who don’t trust themselves enough to not squeeze in one more thing will want to opt for an expandable option, which is far more forgiving. Beis’ Carry-On Roller offers far more capacity than the Away The Bigger Carry-On Flex , which comes in at 47.9 liters at its largest size. And after expansion, Beis’ roller is more spacious than the Briggs & Riley Sympatico. Take note that this suitcase’s hardshell is more prone to scuffs and scratches than the Sympatico bag, though.

Best Carry-On Luggage For Style

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

Our score: 9 | Dimensions:  22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches |  Weight:  8.5 pounds |  Capacity : 46.6 liters | Colors: 6 total, including Safari Green and Scout Tan |  Warranty:  10-year limited warranty

• Those looking for a bag that’s both stylish and durable
• Smooth wheels and a comfortable handle grip
• You need a wide variety of color options

Paravel’s carbon-neutral suitcases not only do good, they look good, too. The brand has gained a loyal following among eco-conscious travelers thanks to the post-consumer recycled materials used in the manufacturing of its bags. But Paravel’s focus on eco-friendly materials doesn’t mean it’s ignored the fashion aspect. The Aviator Carry-On Plus is one of the better-looking carry-on bags on the market today; after traveling with it to Mexico City, I got more than a few compliments leaving the airport.

While there are plenty of fashion brands out there leaning into design-forward luggage, this carry-on actually feels very sturdy and well-made. It features a vegan leather wrap around its handle that makes for a comfortable grip, and it has an integrated TSA lock for added peace of mind. In addition, it comes with built-in compression that allows it to hold up to a week’s worth of clothing and its wheels never snagged on any of the carpets in the airports I passed through (a major pet peeve of mine).

While Paravel’s Aviator may not have as many color options as other suitcases on this list, like Away and Monos, the six color palettes that the brand does offer are incredibly elegant in person. I own the Scout Tan color, which I feel elevates the traditional white suitcase with a vegan leather lining. I also think the brand’s Safari Green and Boxcar Red colors are much more sophisticated-looking than the more playful shades of green and red on other hardside suitcases I’ve used.

Best Carry-On Luggage With Lock Closure

Secure lock that puts you at ease.

Carl Friedrik

Carl Friedrik The Carry-On

Our score: 9 | Dimensions:  21.6 × 14.5 × 9 inches  | Weight:  8.6 pounds  | Capacity: 40 liters | Colors: 4 total, including Black and Navy | Warranty:  Lifetime warranty

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

Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On stands out for its high-end craftsmanship (that chic trimming is Italian leather) as well as 360-degree spinner wheels that are silent as a whisper. Part of its sleek look is thanks to the absence of a zipper; it’s built with a snap locking system that means it clicks open and closed instead. While I usually only use zippered bags (I’m terrified of accidentally getting locked out of my things), this lock felt both super secure and easy to open when it was time to unpack. With just a click of a sturdy button, I was confident that my bag wasn’t going to swing open on the stairs of the airport.

Carl Friedrik's The Carry-On is built with an easy to use lock that is both stylish and secure.

While this suitcase’s stylish exterior makes it an excellent gift for the business traveler in your life, it’s a good fit for any type of excursion, as it’s sized to slide into the overhead bin of both domestic and European cabins. For overpackers, it comes with durable compression straps as well as a pad that helps maximize packing space. While this carry-on only features a zipped interior on one of its sides, you can store your clothing in packing cubes and secure them inside the bag using the compression straps.

For other suitcases with a lock closure, Away’s Bigger Carry-On comes in an aluminum version that also features easy-to-use snap lock closures (you can find a full Forbes Vetted review of that bag here ). Take note that the aluminum Bigger Carry-On clocks in at 10 pounds, which is much heavier than this Carl Friedrik.

Best Carry-On Luggage With Locking Wheels

Sleek suitcase that won't roll away, aer carry-on.

Our score: 9 | Dimensions: 22.7 x 15 x 9 inches | Weight: 8.4 pounds | Capacity: 48 liters | Colors: 5 total, including Dark Olive and Pale Mauve |  Warranty : Lifetime warranty

• Those who are worried about luggage rolling away
• Placing bags on top of your suitcase
• Smart tracker use
• You prefer free-spinning wheels
•  You need a front pocket

As a fan of Aer’s travel bags, I was excited to find out the brand was branching into carry-on luggage. I used its new Carry-On on a recent trip to Los Angeles and found it to be spacious and stylish. It has durable zippers, a built-in TSA lock and three interior pockets, including one pocket made just for smart luggage trackers like the Apple AirTag. I’ll also note that I nabbed the Safety Orange color, which stands out from other suitcases at the airport but still feels muted and elegant.

What most stood out to me, though, was its unique built-in brake system, which can easily be slid on or off. We’ve all had moments where we turn away for a moment and turn back to find our luggage sliding away—or at least I have, most recently at an airport in Portugal. This brake system allows you to lock the wheels of your suitcase and essentially "park” it, so that you don't have to worry about it going anywhere if your eyes wander. 

I was easily able to compress my clothes as well, making it easy to pack. The TSA-approved lock is integrated into the bag’s design, which is a convenient touch. However, the one aspect I think could be improved upon most is the handle design: Aer’s handle grip isn’t as comfortable as some of the other suitcases on the list (in particular, the Béis Carry-On , which stands out for its padded handle).

Best Carry-On Underseat Luggage

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

Our score: 9 | Dimensions: 16 x 14 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 6.4 pounds | Capacity: 31.2 liters | Colors: 9 total, including Pink Sand and Emerald |  Warranty : 5-year limited warranty

• Overnights or weekend trips
• Sliding under a plane or train seat
• Budget flights where only a personal item is allowed
• You need more than two days’ worth of clothes

The Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On is just the right size to slide under most airline and train seats (but make sure to check your airline’s cabin dimensions beforehand). It comes with wheels and a top-mounted handle that make it easy to maneuver around at the airport or train station, and its hardshell exterior means it won’t snag on an aircraft or train’s carpet as you’re sliding it. Similar to full-size hardside luggage, it’s designed with an integrated TSA combination lock to ensure your belongings remain safe.

The Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On offers enough space for an overnight or a weekend trip.

I used this bag on a recent Amtrak trip to Boston and found it to be a smooth-rolling alternative to a heavy backpack or weekender bag. I packed it with three shirts and two pairs of pants and still had space to squeeze in a pair of shoes. It easily slid underneath the train seat in front of me; it would make a great bag alternative on budget airlines where only one personal item is allowed on board. And when not using it themselves, parents can also lend this bag to children for quick trips.

While this is the only underseat bag that I travel with, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Underseat Bag is another rolling option that earned top marks in our round-up of the best underseat luggage .

The Best Packing Cubes, Tested And Reviewed By Frequent Travelers

The best bedding sets that have all you need for a good night’s sleep, other carry-on luggage i tested.

Wondering what else didn’t make the cut? Here are the other bags I tested that didn’t quite make my list of winners.

• July Carry-On Trunk ($445): Australian luggage brand July is known for its sleek aesthetics, and this carry-on trunk in a sand color was one of the first trunk-style suitcases I’ve ever tried. Its glossy exterior looks ultra-elegant in person, and its glide is extremely smooth. This style comes with a lock that is stylish but not as intuitive to use as Carl Friedrik’s Carry-On, which is why I left it off my list.
• Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 ($660): Delsey was one of the first luggage brands I traveled with; I took a Delsey bag on my first ever solo trip to Amsterdam over ten years ago. It features a sturdy hardshell, is relatively lightweight and lasts for years. Compared to many of the other ultra-minimalist hardside options on this list, it’s not as stylish, which is why it didn’t make my final cut.

Why You Can Trust Our Carry-On Luggage Advice

Since 2020, the Forbes Vetted team has researched and published dozens of luggage stories informed by rigorous research and firsthand testing.

About The Author

• This story was written by senior travel editor Astrid Taran , who has seven years of experience writing and editing travel content, from hotel reviews to in-depth luggage guides. Taran has visited over 35 countries throughout the course of her career and flies twice a month. She always tries her best to never check a bag—meaning she knows her way around a carry-on suitcase.
• Over the past six months, every carry-on bag on this list was tested by Taran on multiple domestic and international trips, ranging from a weekend in Boston to a week spent traveling through Paris and London.

The Paravel Aviator was named the most stylish carry-on option.

About Our Editing And Reviewing Process

• This story was reviewed by Forbes Vetted executive editor Dave Johnson , who edited the article for accuracy, information flow and adherence to our style guide and editorial policies . As an avid scuba instructor and recreational diver, he has traveled across Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico and the Pacific with what one might charitably call an extraordinary amount of checked and carry-on luggage. He has owned both Paravel's Aviator Carry-On Plus and Away's The Bigger Carry-On and has written reviews of various luggage pieces as well. (He prefers the Away for its excellent compression system.)
• Cory Baldwin , who provided an additional layer of review for this story and provided input on product selection, is an editorial leader with more than a dozen years of experience editing product reviews and shopping guides. She is currently the director of commerce content and strategy for Forbes and spent a long chunk of her 15-year career editing travel guides and reviewing hotels, so she knows what shoppers look for in a carry-on bag. (She currently uses a Calpak Ambeur and loves the full Away luggage line.)
• We continuously monitor new developments in the travel gear industry, keeping tabs on recently released products as well as product recalls to ensure our shopping guides bring you the most current and useful information. This article was last updated in August 2024 by travel writer Claire Epting , who added two of Taran’s newly tested picks to the list: These suitcases are the Aer Carry-On and the Briggs & Riley Essential Baseline Carry-On .

How We Tested And Chose The Best Carry-On Bags

To determine a list of contenders for the best carry-on luggage, we first researched top brands and took into consideration the key factors that distinguish a carry-on from other luggage. We sought out a wide variety of carry-on luggage pieces, both hardside and softside, to accommodate different preferences.

Taran personally tested these 12 suitcases on a variety of different trips, from weekend train getaways to week-long European escapes. Here is the criteria she used during testing:

• Packing capacity: How much stuff can we fit in each suitcase? We attempted to put at least five days worth of belongings into each suitcase and took note of how much more or less we could fit comfortably.
• Ease of use: How each suitcase felt rolling through an airport and how the wheels and handle functioned over a variety of different terrains, from bumpy cobblestone streets to snowy or rainy sidewalks.
• External size and maneuverability: Each suitcase’s ability to fit into a range of airline overhead bins, and how easy or difficult they were to lift overhead and wheel down an airplane aisle.
• Durability: Whether each suitcase handled the same way after a few trips and if there were any obvious scratches or dings after reasonable use.
• Features: How many special features each bag offers and how well they work, such as hardside, internal compression functions, phone-charging batteries, expandable zippers, etc. Bags with more and better features were considered for best overall.
• Style: How nice (or not) each bag looked and whether we felt stylish when wheeling them around. We took note of any compliments received while in transit.
• Value: Based on how well the bag functions, how sophisticated it looks, how well it holds up to travel and the special features it offers, does the bag justify its price tag?
• Overall impression: How much we liked using each suitcase, and whether we found ourselves reaching for it again after testing.

We will continue to update this story with new information after our next round of testing is complete, which will consider classics like the Rimowa Essential Cabin , the popular Icon Stripe from British luggage brand Antler and others.

What To Consider In The Best Carry-On Luggage

In addition to Taran’s testing criteria above, there are several more key factors to keep in mind when picking out a carry-on suitcase. Here are some additional points to consider:

Carry-on luggage comes in a range of hardside and softside options. The best material for hardside suitcases is polycarbonate. The majority of our picks are polycarbonate suitcases, which are known for being impact-resistant and durable. While aluminum is also durable, it is heavier and more expensive than polycarbonate, and can be more prone to denting. Softside suitcases are made of strong, rip-resistant nylon or polyester fabrics.

Most brands feature carry-on options in black and navy, but a few—including Away and Monos—offer a wider range of colors. Suitcases in dark, neutral tones are popular for a reason; they hide scuff marks and are easy to keep looking fresh. However, they’re also going to blend in with the crowd, so we recommend adding a colorful luggage tag if you go this route. Lighter, brighter hues stand out at the airport carousel, but keep in mind that they’ll show dirt and markings more easily.

Additional Features

The best carry-on suitcases are thoughtfully designed to make your travel even more secure and convenient. One of the most useful inclusions for a carry-on is a TSA-approved lock: This is a combination lock that can be opened by airport security officials using a master key. Another nice-to-have design element is a zippered front compartment, which can hold electronic devices, charging cables or, in the case of the Monos Carry-On Pro , a 15-inch laptop.

A high-quality carry-on can be an investment, which is why we recommend buying one with a warranty that covers unexpected damages. Luggage warranties range from five years post-purchase to the full lifespan of your suitcase. Policies differ by brand, so make sure to read the fine print so you know exactly what to expect from your warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hard or soft luggage better for a carry-on.

The choice between hardside and softside luggage is ultimately one of personal preference, but based on Taran’s experience, hardshell suitcases are better suited as carry-ons. They’re more impact-resistant than softshell designs, and they score higher in terms of style, too. Softside suitcases have the benefit of being expandable, which is helpful for overpackers; however, some hardside designs—like the Béis Carry-On Roller —feature an expandable panel for a few inches of extra room.

What Is The Best Carry-On Luggage Brand?

Based on extensive testing, Taran named Away’s The Bigger Carry-On as her top pick for carry-on luggage. Away’s polycarbonate suitcases are designed with thoughtful compression systems that make it easy to pack for a week-long trip without having to cram all of your belongings inside. The brand also earns high marks for its color selection: Hues like Coast Blue and Clay Pink allow you to infuse your travel setup with an extra bit of personality.

What Is The TSA-Approved Carry-On Size?

The TSA-approved carry-on size requirements for the majority of domestic airlines are 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches. These measurements can differ slightly for international flights, so make sure to double-check with your carrier to ensure your luggage will fit in the plane’s overhead compartment.

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The Best Luggage for International Travel

Experts swear by these top-tested suitcases for traveling abroad.

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.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable spinner.

Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Best Carry-On

Away the carry-on.

As you start planning your next trip to a different country by looking into hotels, flights and tourist attractions, don't forget that the key to a smooth travel experience ensuring you have the best luggage brand by your side. When you're traveling internationally, it's especially important to bring a suitcase that complies with airline restrictions, is comfortable to carry or roll throughout your journey and has plenty of room for all of your belongings and your souvenirs for the trip home.

With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which luggage is truly worth it. That's why at the Good Housekeeping Institute , I and my fellow Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab analysts put luggage to the test to determine which suitcases you should invest in. We've evaluated more than 100 pieces of luggage from popular brands in the Lab for properties like packability, durability and ease of use. We also share luggage with consumer testers who are able to try it out on their own getaways and provide real-user feedback about their experiences. Whether you're looking for a large checked bag for a long trip overseas, a quality carry-on for a shorter stay or a travel backpack for easy toting, we've found an option for nearly every traveler.

This top-performing suitcase from our best overall luggage brand Samsonite has repeatedly stood out in the Textiles Lab's and our consumers' tests and is priced under $200 — an incredible value. The hardside carry-on is made of polypropylene and weighs in at just 6.5 pounds, which is one of the lightest bags we've tested, so it won't eat too much into the lower weight restrictions set by many international airlines.

I was impressed by how easy it was to lift and roll the bag around, even when filled with our standard packing load. Despite the lightweight design, this carry-on is spacious with a butterfly-opening, unfolding into two primary compartments for easy packing, and there's an additional one inch of expandable storage with the pull of a zipper.

During our Lab evaluations, we liked how easy it was to pull the bag through our luggage obstacle course. While some testers said the telescopic handle felt a bit loose, the suitcase earned high scores for maneuverability, with testers sharing feedback including "very smooth rolling" and "the wheels moved really well." The material was more prone to scratching than some others we evaluated, but the suitcase proved to be durable overall in our drop tests, resisting major damage.

Listed dimensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10" | Weight: 6.5 lbs | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

With more than 34,000 five-star ratings, t his best-selling suitcase from Amazon Basics is loved by both real users and our consumer testers who say it's worth every penny. Made of lightweight ABS plastic, the hardside suitcase isn't quite as durable as those made of polycarbonate, but the material helps to keep the cost low — under $100 — so I recommend it for someone shopping on a budget.

During our Textiles Lab evaluations for durability, there were some noticeable markings in our scratch tests, but we were impressed by how well the bag maintained its shape after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. Amazon reviewers who regularly use the suitcases say they hold up over time, as well.

When our consumer testers rolled the suitcase through our obstacle course, they were wowed by how smooth the wheels were, with one describing the bag as "very easy to move." We gave the carry-on high scores for packability, as we were able to pack our standard load of belongings (clothing, accessories and toiletries) for a short trip inside with room to spare. Plus, there are interior zippered mesh pockets for easy organization, and the bag expands up to one extra inch for additional packing space.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 14.9" x 10" | Weight: 7.3 lbs | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

One of the most popular suitcases on the market, Away's standard carry-on is definitely worth the hype . The bag is available in 11 colors, including on-trend options like green and red, along with neutral hues like gray and black.

Not only is the suitcase simple and stylish from the outside, it's also full of functional features inside to make packing for your next international trip a breeze. The bag unfolds into two separate primary compartments to fit all of your things: one fully zippered side and one with adjustable compression straps, and there are mesh pockets to stash smaller items.

Consumer testers and GH analysts alike love to travel with the Away carry-on, including one who shared, "It fit all of the clothes I needed for a long weekend. It rolled really easily and was light enough to pop in and out of the overhead bin." Testers said the telescopic handle felt flimsier than others they tried, but they were impressed with the bag overall, saying that it was easy to maneuver and roll over different types of flooring, including wood, carpet and tile. And it looked great after our drop and scratch tests, showing no major signs of damage or dents.

Listed dimensions: 9" x 13.7" x 21.7" | Weight: 8.1 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Briggs & Riley 31-inch Baseline Extra Large Expandable Spinner

The innovative design details of this softside checked bag from Briggs & Riley help to simplify packing for extended trips abroad. The bag features a unique push-button expansion system unlike any other we've evaluated , which allows you to easily expand the bag, fill it with everything you'll need and then compress it back down to its standard size.

One tester who was impressed with the amount of space in the carry-on version of the bag shared, "It fit clothing and accessories for two people for a seven-day summer vacation." And this checked bag offers more than double the packing capacity. Other innovative features include a built-in trifold garment folder for formal attire and reinforced corners for added protection.

At 15.6 pounds, the suitcase does weigh more than other models we've evaluated, but it is made with a nylon material that resisted wear and tear when I tested it in our abrasion machine. It also earned top marks in our latest round of drop testing. Along with performing well for durability, the suitcase received high scores for maneuverability, with smooth wheels and a sturdy telescopic handle.

Listed dimensions: 31" x 22" x 13.8" | Weight: 15.6 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

July Checked Luggage

Rolling a bag through the airport has never been easier than it is with July's classic luggage , including this spacious checked suitcase and its popular carry-on bags . One GH analyst who took the checked bag on a vacation abroad said, "I've never used a suitcase with wheels this smooth." I've personally traveled with luggage from the brand and was blown away by how effortless it was to roll the suitcases, even over carpet and concrete sidewalks.

The telescopic handle technically locks at 20 different heights to prevent it from falling down on its own, and most testers appreciated the slanted grip on the handle, sharing that it was comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver with.

Made with a polycarbonate shell, the suitcase is lightweight and durable, and the corners are reinforced with aluminum bumpers for an added level of protection. The bag held up well after being released repeatedly from our drop tester, but testers noted marks and scuffs on the surface after taking the bag on just one trip.

It boasts 80 liters of packing space and features one fully zippered compartment and one open compartment with a compression panel and Y-strap for security. Even more, it weighs just 8.3 pounds, which is similar to many of the carry-on sized bags we evaluate.

Listed dimensions: 26" x 18.75" x 11" | Weight: 8.3 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate with aluminum corners | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Checked Luggage

Travelpro luggage was created by a pilot who wanted to make bags specifically for other pilots and airline crewmembers who were always on the go. The result is a collection of highly durable, quality suitcases including the popular Platinum Elite medium checked suitcase.

Built to last, the luggage is made of heavyweight nylon material that performed well when I tested it for abrasion resistance. When I released the bag repeatedly from our drop tester, it showed no signs of damage or dents. Our testers also gave the suitcase high scores for ease of use and appreciated the sturdy feel of the telescopic handle. The suitcase does have a more traditional look, though, which some testers described as "old-fashioned," sharing that they wished it were sleeker.

Full of thoughtful and functional features, the suitcase makes packing and traveling a breeze. The bag can be unzipped to reveal one large packing compartment with compression panels that secure your belongings in place, a removable wet bag for toiletries, a large mesh zippered pocket in the lid for breathable storage and a built-in suiter to help keep more formal clothes in tip-top shape. To prevent the suitcase from tipping over when it's full, it's also designed with a unique tapered expansion system, so the bag is narrower at the top and broader at the bottom.

Listed dimensions: 25" x 18" x 11.25" | Weight: 9.8 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Delsey Paris Helium DLX Softside Expandable Luggage

While some softside luggage is bulky and pricey, this Helium DLX carry-on from Delsey is lightweight, as the name implies, and it's available for a great value. The polyester material isn't quite as durable or substantial as nylon styles we've tested, but the brand's polyester fabric has performed well overall in our abrasion tests without major wear.

Two external zippered pockets allow for easy access to travel essentials like your phone and ID, so you won't have to hold up the TSA line while scouring through your bag. While the bag unzips to expose only one main compartment for packing, it's equipped with a removable bi-fold organizer and expands by two inches for additional room. One tester said, "I love the pockets." Plus, the inner lining can be fully unzipped and removed for easy cleaning.

I personally carry luggage from Delsey and love the smooth wheels and sturdy telescopic handle, and our testers who tried Delsey's luggage found the handle to be comfortable to grip and use. However, they said the bags were more difficult to maneuver through our obstacle course than others they tested.

Listed dimensions: 12" x 17.75" x 28" | Weight: 8.4 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

L.L.Bean Adventure Rolling Duffle Bag, 135L

A rolling duffel like this one from L.L.Bean is ideal for longer adventures abroad or for overpackers like me. The duffel isn't as structured as standard suitcases, meaning you can compress it and slide it under your bed or in a closet if you're pressed for storage space — and on the other hand, you can really fill it to the brim when you're packing. Just be careful that you're not stuffing it too much because it can be easy to exceed an airline's weight restrictions.

One GH analyst who loves to travel with this bag said that it's one of her go-to picks for family vacations. With just two wheels, our analyst said it's a little more cumbersome to maneuver than a spinner suitcase, but you also have the option to carry the bag with the padded strap.

The bag has a wide opening for easy access to everything you need inside, and outer compression straps keep everything in place. Made of durable polyester material with a reinforced base, the duffel lasts for years and years without signs of wear, according to our analyst. Plus, it's water-resistant inside and out — perfect for inevitable leaks or wet weather. If you're looking for something smaller, the brand carries a variety of sizes to meet your travel needs.

Listed dimensions: 14" x 17.25" x 32.5" | Weight: 8.8 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 1 year

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

When we evaluated this bag in the Textiles Lab, we were amazed by just how much we could fit inside during our packing tests. Not only did it beat out other travel backpacks we tested, it also outperformed some of our carry-ons because of its spacious interior .

The backpack has a suitcase-style opening and fully unzips to expose a highly organized interior jam-packed with zippered mesh pockets for all of your belongings. It also features a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17-inch computer.

Made of recycled nylon and polyester, the bag is durable and water-resistant. When I tested it for abrasion resistance in the Lab, there were no visible signs of wear. Details like a sternum strap, waist belt and padded mesh provide comfort and support. With backpack straps that tuck neatly inside the back of the bag and carrying straps on all sides, you can easily grab it to lift into an overhead bin.

Some online reviewers wished it was equipped with a water bottle holder and said the zippers can be finicky, but we didn't have issues with them in the Lab.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 12" x 10" | Weight: 3.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Calpak Luka Duffel

Able to hold everything you need for a weekend getaway, this weekender from Calpak was the top performer in our Textiles Lab tests. Not only is the bag totally on-trend, thanks to the puffy padded design and fashionable color options, it's also full of functional features . One tester who used it as her personal item on a long trip said, "This bag fits everything I need and more!"

A GH analyst who used the bag added, "I appreciate the well-organized interior," which includes several zippered pockets and elastic storage. Outside, there's a separate shoe compartment, additional zippered pockets and a water bottle holder. Altogether, there are nine pockets, and the spacious bag aced our packing tests.

If you're pairing it with Calpak's popular luggage , this bag has a trolley sleeve that slides right over the telescopic handle of your suitcase. One tester noted that the stitching that secured the sleeve in place started unraveling a bit after just one use. The bag is made of a smooth polyester material that's comfortable to carry and water-resistant. A tester said, "It poured while I was traveling and everything inside this bag stayed perfectly dry."

Listed dimensions: 12" x 16" x 7" | Weight: 2 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L Duffel Bag

This convertible duffel from Eagle Creek is the perfect adventure travel companion. The bag is durable, combining polyester and nylon for a water-resistant material that also held up well when tested for abrasion resistance . One GH analyst who travels with this duffel said that it still looks great after years of regular rough and tough use.

It's structured and maintains its shape for easy packing, but the duffel can be compressed to bring inside of your suitcase as an extra bag or for compact storage at home. According to our testers and GH analyst, the zippers have large pull tabs that are easy to use, and, according to the brand, they're covered in water-resistant strips for the ultimate protection in wet weather.

The duffel features a reinforced top handle and grab handles along the sides for carrying, and there are adjustable backpack straps for hands-free use that can be connected for an additional carrying strap or tucked inside the bag. Some online reviewers said the backpack straps are on the thinner side and weren't as comfortable as other traditional travel backpacks, but they appreciated the convenient option.

Listed dimensions: 11.5" x 23.25" x 11" | Weight: 2.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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The Best 9 Products When You Need to Carry More Bags Than You Have Hands

Who knew it was this easy to carry up to six suitcases at a time?

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Carrying Multiple Bags

You Might Also Want

• Why Trust T + L

Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

If you feel like you’re constantly corralling runaway bags when you travel, consider this a sign to check out options to masterfully manage multiple pieces of luggage while barely lifting a finger. What if we told you you could carry thrice as many bags as you have hands — without burdening your shoulders or back?

We’ve done a hefty amount of research and stretched our creative problem-solving muscles to find the best items that’ll help you carry more luggage with less effort. We’ve made the list, checked it twice, and come up with nine solutions to level up your travel style, from connectable luggage sets to simple attachable hooks. Whether you’re headed out with the fam, or are on team overpacker every day, these picks will help you carry multiple suitcases like an absolute pro. 

Best Connectable Luggage

Tach 3-piece hardcase connectable luggage.

This luggage set has a patented design for flawlessly connecting multiple luggage pieces. 

Some travelers may find the built-in packing-cube pockets to be limiting.

If you’re concerned about fiddling with straps and clips, consider this 3-piece nesting luggage set with patented connectivity capabilities that easily connect up to six suitcases at once. The durable hardside set includes a 20-inch carry-on, a 24-inch checked suitcase, and a 28-inch checked bag that can be used solo or connected together. These bags also go beyond standard features like double spinner wheels and TSA-approved locks by also offering built-in charging ports and a water bottle hook. Use the telescopic handle to glide from gate to gate or attach the included baggage strap to pull your load of connected luggage. Luggage connects via built-in fasteners on the sides and it only takes seconds to snap them together. While this luggage set is game-changing for large families and overpackers, we’re not huge fans of the built-in packing cube organizers. We’d rather have the flexibility to sort the interior organization on our own. Still, the price is right and the convenience of hassle-free connectability is unmatched. 

Best Luggage with Built-in Strap

Béis large check-in roller.

There’s a built-in feature that signals if your bag is overweight. 

The retractable luggage strap has a 15-pound weight limit. 

Béis The 29-inch Large Check-in Roller is a smartly stylish suitcase with a tough polycarbonate shell that excelled in our luggage tests . We appreciate how good this bag looks rolling beside us (in any of the 11 available colors), plus its added features like a TSA-approved double lock, smooth spinner wheels, two expandable inches of extra space, and a built-in weight indicator that turns red if the bag is over 50 pounds (the usual airline checked bag weight limit). 

However where this bag also sets itself apart is the handy retractable strap so another bag (up to 15 pounds) can be attached to the back. This ready-when-you-need-it, built-in feature is nothing new for Béis so you can also find it on a number of the brand’s suitcases, including The Carry-on Roller . No matter what size works best for you, this means your Beis luggage can carry a luggage-sleeve-equipped bag slipped over the telescopic handle and a second one looped onto the back, sparing your back and gifting you one empty hand. 

Best Clip Strap

Monochef add a bag luggage strap set.

The two straps can be clipped together to make one large strap that can be used for larger pieces of luggage. 

If you attach more than two bags together, the stack might topple.

If you only plan on occasionally traveling with multiple wheeled bags (or even just once), it is worth giving this Monochef Add a Bag Luggage Strap Set a look. It’s literally just two 1.5-inch straps that can easily be tossed into a box or the back of the closet when not in use. Each strap is adjustable with a maximum length of 22.4 inches, and you can even clip the straps together if you need more length for larger luggage. This strap connector works by threading the strap through the top luggage handles on suitcases (or the shoulder straps or grab handles of a carry-on bag) to create a loop for the second bag to hang down from. In terms of strap material, it’s like a thicker version of an adjustable backpack strap, and the plastic clip has a quick and easy pinch-and-release buckle. Each strap can hold up to 220 pounds of tension when fastened. Just be sure to keep an eye on the weight of the attached bag — if it’s more than the anchor bag, it’ll likely topple. 

Best Bungee Strap

Guanjunx add a bag elastic strap belt.

The stretchy figure-eight design loops around your bag, so you don’t have to mess with clips or hooks. 

Your suitcase handle will need to be at least 12 inches long to keep the strap from slipping off. 

We don’t know about you, but we hate hauling around a bag while traveling — especially if we’re in a rush or if it’s a little weighty. Instead, we’d rather attach our backpack, purse, duffel, or tote to our wheeled luggage whenever possible — and the Guanjunx Add a Bag Elastic Strap Belt makes it a breeze to do so. This infinity-shaped luggage belt is perfect for getting a lumpy load off your shoulder or back and securing it to the top of your suitcase — no hooks or clips to struggle with — and it’s easier to use than a trolley sleeve. All you have to do is thread one end of the belt over your suitcase handle, stack your bag on top, wrap the belt around the front of the bag, and loop the other end over the suitcase handle. The X-shape of the belt works to provide extra security while holding your loose bag on top of your suitcase against the handle. That said, it won’t work if your luggage handle is shorter than 12 inches when fully extended.  

Best Portable Luggage Cart

Mount it folding luggage cart with wheels.

It folds up to store easily and also works as a moving dolly. 

The weight limit maxes out at 77 pounds, so you’ll need a good estimate of what your luggage weighs.

Is anyone else annoyed that most airports charge to use luggage carts? With the Mount It! Folding Luggage Cart with Wheels, you can BYOLC (bring your own luggage cart). This portable option is lightweight at just four pounds but can hold up to 77 pounds. (You’ll have to do a little math to know if you’re within the weight limits.) The compact folding design means you won’t have to clear out a bunch of space to store it when it’s not in use — just fold it up, bungee it together with the included bungee cord, and slip it into any 18 x 9 storage space, or even store inside your carry-on bag or car trunk until you need to use it. The steel handle adjusts to three heights (15.25 to 37.75 inches), and the two rubber traction wheels make rolling it over carpet or uneven surfaces a cinch. We also love that it can be placed inside your larger suitcase before checking it, attached to your carry-on to bring in the cabin (depending on that suitcase’s size), or stashed under the seat instead. 

Best Belt Bag Strap

Cincha travel belt bag.

It’s a multifunctional travel accessory that has a use beyond just securing a bag to your luggage. 

The bag is not removable or adjustable. 

We’re big fans of products that have more than one use — so, might as well get the ultimate bang for your buck, right? We already love that the original Cincha Travel Belt lets us easily strap our shoulder bag or purse to our wheeled luggage handle, but the Travel Belt Bag adds the versatility and function of an easy-access utility bag to this belt. It can face either direction when used as a luggage connector and can also be worn as a cute crossbody bag once you’re off the plane (so that’s one less thing to pack). No matter how you carry it the most, the interior organization and convenient exterior zippered pouch make it ideal when we want hands-free access to our essentials on travel days, or when we don’t want to be tethered down by a shoulder bag or backpack. It also comes in six different colors, including rotating seasonal shades. Some things to note, however, are that the positioning of the bag on the strap isn’t adjustable, and you can’t remove the bag from the belt. 

Best Connectible Backpack

Osprey fairview 55l travel pack.

It is two backpacks in one, making this a great option for camping treks, or for hikes at your final destination.

Only the smaller, detachable bag will fit under the seat on most aircraft, so you’ll have to count the main bag as your carry-on.

We love a great backpack, especially when it is made from tough, recycled materials that pack down for easy storage. The Osprey Daylite Fairview 55 Travel Pack features a breathable back panel and cushioned straps, but on two separate bags. There’s a larger one (that serves as a carry-on) and a detachable smaller one to use as a personal item, and then as a daypack at your destination. That leaves both hands free for wheeled checked bags as you go. The main, 40-liter bag opens up with a top flap like a suitcase for easy packing, plus there's a handle on the side so you can carry both together briefcase-style, if preferred, or you can carry the 15-liter lockable daypack on your front with the backpack on your back instead. There’s also a similar set — the Farpoint 55 Travel Pack — available for men, too.

Best Hook Strap

Vigorport luggage hook strap.

This hook strap is compatible with nearly any piece of upright luggage. 

You’ll have to keep weight balance and personal-item height in mind. 

Looking to go hands-free with your laptop bag, tote, or purse while traveling between point A and point B? The Vigaopott Luggage Hook is a quick and simple solution that will keep smaller bags off your back and shoulders by giving them a spot to hang on the side of your wheeled luggage. Just thread the hook strap through your luggage’s grab handle, secure the strap with a quick buckle clip, and then use the built-in coated metal J-hook to hang your personal item. We particularly like this luggage hook because of the Velcro strap that secures the open side of the J-hook to prevent accidental slippage, and because it will work with practically any piece of upright luggage. However, you’ll want to make sure the item you are hanging doesn’t cause the suitcase to tip forward, and that there’s enough length available to avoid dragging. 

Rydir The Neutral 2-Pack Band

These secure your personal item to your luggage handle and work on a variety of bag sizes.

They take a while to put on and take off.

To minimize adjusting buckles and straps, opt for these Rydir bands. They're made with stretchy spandex that can be wrapped around your entire bag and looped over your suitcase handle for a snug fit around your personal item. It fits around most small travel bags, including backpacks, totes, purses, diaper bags, and more. This set contains two neutral colors, but you can also find them in black, as well as brighter options like pink and orange. These bands are sturdier than they look, and even serve as an extra pocket for your phone or passport while zooming through the airport. Plus, they protect your bag from scuffs and dirt.

Tips for Traveling With Multiple Suitcases

Consider the size and weight of each bag.

Traveling with a lot of luggage is a balancing act, even beyond just physically working out how to carry everything with your own two hands. You’ll want to take stock of all pieces you intend to bring with you; how much they can hold; how much space they’ll take up (notably what you can bring on board versus what you’ll need to check); and how much the bags weigh once they’re fully packed. We recommend finding the lightest, sturdiest luggage so that it’s easier to carry and move, tough against transport bangs, and can hold more of your items safely. 

Know how many bags you can bring on board

Baggage limits and restrictions vary by airline, routing, and fare class. The general rules are that you can carry on up to two bags — one personal item to fit under the seat and one piece of luggage that fits within the size requirements for the overhead bin. Checked luggage usually maxes out at two bags; you may be able to check additional pieces for larger, additional fees, but some airlines limit the overall number of bags per traveler. Know your airline’s rules before packing and showing up at the airport. 

Traveling with multiple bags is tricky enough — make the rest of your trip as easy as possible with these additional travel items.

Travel Inspira Digital Luggage Scale : This affordable luggage scale has a non-slip handle so it's easy to weigh your bags with minimal effort. The scale turns on with the click of a button and the settings can switch between pounds and kilograms.

Riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder : This drink caddy slides onto the handle of your suitcase to hold drinks, phones, and other goods with three pockets.

JRZTRAVEL Three Piece Set Luggage Covers : If you're already traveling with multiple suitcases, you don't want to find yourself getting caught in the rain with all of your luggage. This set comes with three luggage covers that can be slipped over bags of various sizes to protect all of your gear from moisture.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Katherine Alex Beaven conducted hours of online research, dug around for creative solutions, and fielded suggestions from T+L editors to come up with this list of the best travel products that’ll help you carry more luggage than you have hands. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

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27 things you should always pack in your carry-on bag.

Create your packing list of essentials and new in-flight finds.

What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag

Packing your carry-on bag for a flight is exciting – but it can also be overwhelming. With a little planning and a concise list of airport and in-flight essentials, you can maximize space and be prepared for your journey.

To help you decide what to pack in your carry-on bag, our team compiled this list of must-have items. Download the packing list here to use while you prep for your next trip, then read on to learn more about what to pack.

Carry-on packing list

Travel wallet, passport holder, toiletry bag, tsa-approved liquids bag and compliant containers, prescription medications, glasses case, travel pillow, packing cubes, tech organizer, luggage tracker, zippered pouches and reusable silicone bags, mini clip bag, hand sanitizer, bluetooth wireless adapter, wired earbuds or headphones, e-reader or a great book, travel adapter/converter, travel first-aid kit, reusable water bottle, activities or games, light jacket, change of clothing.

Protect your credit cards and cash with an RFID wallet like the Travelon RFID Blocking Single Zip Wallet , which prevents scammers from wirelessly stealing your personal information. This travel wallet is especially useful since it can also hold most smartphones.

If you're traveling internationally, an option like the TIGARI Passport Holder can protect your travel document and make it easy to locate in your carry-on bag. You'll need access to your passport at airport security, when you board the plane and when you're filling out entry forms, so keep the passport holder as well as a pen within reach. Once you arrive at your destination, put the passport wallet somewhere safe at your lodging or – if you feel inclined to keep it with you – stow it in your travel purse, belt bag or backpack to ensure it's safe while you explore.

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Pack your toiletry bag in your carry-on so you can easily freshen up and so that you'll have essentials like toothpaste and deodorant in the event your checked luggage is lost in transit. Also consider packing toiletries that are useful for travel (particularly the dry air on planes), even if they're not part of your daily routine at home.

U.S. News senior travel editor Marisa Méndez recommends including a facial moisturizer and a body lotion in your toiletry bag. "My skin always dries out on flights and it's nice to have something to soothe my skin," she says.

"I always love having facial spray to freshen up after the flight," says Elizabeth Von Tersch , also a senior travel editor at U.S. News. She always keeps one in her purse. " Mario Badescu and Evian are great." These facial sprays help to moisturize your skin after the drying environment on a plane or give you a little midday pick-me-up.

When packing your carry-on bag for a flight, you'll want to have a clear quart-sized bag that meets Transportation Security Administration guidelines for liquids and gels. Some Dopp kits or toiletry bags include a removable bag for travel-size liquids, or you can buy this reusable TSA-approved clear bag on Amazon . Put any liquids or gels you're traveling with in this bag, including shampoo, lotion, liquid makeup items and hand sanitizer.

Keep in mind that all liquids and gels must be in travel-size bottles or containers measuring 3.4 ounces or less. Remember: You'll need to remove this clear quart-sized bag from your carry-on bag at security, so consider packing it in an external pocket or an easy-to-find spot in your carry-on suitcase. To learn more about TSA regulations, consult our article about what is allowed in a carry-on .

Never stow prescription medications in checked baggage : If luggage is lost or delayed, replacing these medications while traveling can be extremely challenging or even impossible. If you take multiple medications, consider a travel pill sorter like the EZY Dose Pill Organizer , available for about $5 on Amazon.

Whether you wear glasses for vision correction or you're packing your favorite pair of sunglasses, keeping them protected while stowed in your carry-on is essential. If you're bringing multiple pairs, a case like the foldable Dagne Dover Remi Glasses Case can hold up to three pairs, or the Lug Eyeglass Holder & Mini Pill Case works well for eyeglasses and contacts.

Courtesy of Cabeau

Resting throughout your journey can help you feel refreshed when you reach your destination and make the time pass a little quicker. But nothing can (literally) cramp your style like a stiff neck from sleeping wrong. Choose a comfortable neck pillow for travel like the top-rated Cabeau Evolution S3 or the MLVOC Travel Pillow (less than $30 on Amazon). For a travel pillow that doubles as a packing cube, consider the Tube pillow , which holds up to three days' worth of clothing.

Packing cubes aren't just for organizing clothing and shoes. Maximize space in your carry-on bag with these handy travel compartments . While Eagle Creek's PACK-IT line features the top-rated compression packing cubes on the market, many travelers also swear by the Veken Packing Cubes , which are usually available for $20 or less on Amazon. To maximize space even more, consider Lug's compression packing cubes .

If you're planning to travel with jewelry, watches or items that would be difficult to replace, be sure to put these in your carry-on bag, as checked items run the risk of being misplaced. For jewelry, a compact case that is easy to spot like the Lug Mini Swizzle is ideal for rings, cufflinks or earrings.

It's easy to let your charging cords get lost at the bottom of your bag or get your headphones tangled somewhere in your tote. A handy tech organizer such as the CALPAK Tech Organizer or the BAGSMART Tech Organizer , with zippered compartments and sections for specific cords, can help reduce tangled messes (and the need for you to search for your essentials in a tight airplane cabin).

Even though you'll have your carry-on bag with you, it's still a good idea to have a luggage tracker like an Apple AirTag or a Tile Pro securely attached to your bag. In the event you and your bag get separated, you'll be able to track down where you parted ways (because when you're jet-lagged it's easy to be a bit absent-minded).

Smaller than packing cubes, zippered pouches and silicone bags like the Stasher Silicone Reusable Storage Bags are perfect for storing everything from snacks to scrunchies. If traveling with family, consider different colored pouches for each traveler's items so you can easily tell them apart without removing everything from the bag.

Get a handy little bag with a carabiner clip, such as the CALPAK Luka Key Pouch , to securely attach to the outside of your bag for quick-grab items like gum, hand sanitizer or individual travel wipes . Once you're at your destination, you can clip it on a belt loop or use the elastic band to slide it on your wrist for your room key, lip gloss and other small essentials.

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Let's face it – traveling can introduce your body to a host of unwanted germs. Carrying a bottle of travel hand sanitizer will keep your hands clean on the go, even if there's not a bathroom nearby. To disinfect surfaces like airplane tray tables, arm rests or tables, consider having a pack of disinfecting wipes at your disposal as well.

During a flight, the low humidity and high altitude can have a drying effect on your skin and lips. To combat the dry air, consider packing a hydrating lip balm like this new stick option by Aquaphor . What's more, if you choose a balm over a liquid moisturizer, you won't need to store this product in your clear TSA-approved liquids bag.

In-flight entertainment can help your travel day go faster, but being tethered to the seatback with wired headphones can feel a bit constricting. Plus, you may have to unplug to let your seat mates in or out. Avoid those troubles and connect your wireless headphones to the in-flight system with Twelve South's AirFly ($35 or less on Amazon), which wirelessly transmits audio via Bluetooth.

If you'd prefer to connect directly to the in-flight entertainment to watch a movie (or maybe just tune out your seatmates), buy some inexpensive wired earbuds like this well-rated set by Jogteg . You can keep them in your carry-on so you're always ready, even on flights where they don't pass out complimentary headsets.

Having a book or magazine in your carry-on bag is always a good idea. Whether you encounter a delayed flight, a long layover or a plane with less than stellar in-flight entertainment, a good book will help pass the time.

On everything from red-eye flights to international jaunts, a good eye mask can block out light from overhead, the seatback screens and plane windows. The Nodpod Sleep Mask is especially relaxing since it's weighted.

"Even if you plan to grab a bite at the airport or on the plane (if that's an option), pack some snacks," says Amanda Norcross , content and SEO strategist for travel at U.S. News. "Flying is unpredictable and stressful for many travelers, and 'hanger' only makes things worse." Trail mix, granola bars, crackers, pretzels, dried fruit and popcorn are some good snack options you may want to throw in your carry-on. Also put chewing gum in your carry-on to freshen breath and help with ear popping.

It's not always easy to find a charging station at the airport, and there are restrictions when it comes to packing batteries in your carry-on baggage for any flight. One option that meets Federal Aviation Administration guidelines is the Anker 537 Power Bank (PowerCore 26K for Laptop) . This device can charge a laptop, smartphone or tablet quickly, to keep your devices running even on a long flight.

For international travel – since different countries use different plug shapes – packing a universal adapter or converter will enable you to charge your devices and other electronics. Before purchasing, consider what your needs will be, especially regarding the shape of the wall outlet plugs and the voltage of the countries you'll be visiting.

A travel adapter such as the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter on Amazon makes plugs from the U.S. fit into electrical outlets around the world, whereas a travel converter like the ALLWEI International Travel Adapter converts the electricity voltage. If you're traveling overseas from the U.S., you'll need both of these devices to use electronics like laptops, curling irons and hair straighteners (unless your device is dual voltage, like the BaBylissPRO Nano Mini Straightening Iron ).

For minor injuries like blisters from new shoes or unexpected cuts and scrapes, pack a first-aid kit with Band-Aids and triple antibiotic ointment like Neosporin in your bag.

Staying hydrated while traveling is a must. Pack a reusable water bottle like the Corkcicle Canteen Triple Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle to fill up at the airport before your flight and refill throughout your travels. Even better – an insulated bottle will stay cold for hours.

Whether it's a long flight or layover (or maybe you just need a good distraction), having some activities like a miniature coloring book and mini colored pencils or small packable games can be really useful.

"I took a small coloring book and a small set of pencils on a flight once and it was life-changing," Méndez says. U.S. News senior digital producer for travel Leilani Osmundson says she and her husband love to bring a deck of cards and portable two-player games to pass the time.

"I typically wear a lightweight jacket on the plane to free up space in my carry-on," says Norcross. "If the plane is too warm, I can easily stuff it under the seat in front of me with my backpack." If you're in need of a simple yet effective packable jacket , check out the Amazon Essentials Puffer Jacket .

Whether your coffee spills off your tray table or you lose your checked baggage, an extra outfit is handy to have. Pack a versatile outfit (including socks and underwear) into your carry-on bag so you have a backup option, or perhaps have your swimwear and flip-flops ready to head directly to the beach the moment you arrive. For tired or swollen feet, having a pair of compression socks and a change of walking shoes can make your travel day much more comfortable.

What not to pack in a carry-on bag

When packing a carry-on bag or suitcase, it's important to note that some items are prohibited on all flights, due to Federal Aviation Administration regulations. The prohibited list includes aerosol products (such as anti-static spray or pepper spray), lithium or lithium-ion batteries, firearms and ammunition, flammables, and explosives. For more details on what you can and can't pack in your carry-on, visit the TSA's What Can I Bring? and the FAA's Pack Safe websites.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves to see how much she can fit in her carry-on bag. She always brings a few snacks, a good read and little luxuries to make the journey comfortable. Hood used her personal travel experience, along with her retail background and research expertise, to curate this list.

You might also be interested in:

• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• The Top Luggage Brands
• Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline
• What to Do If Your Flight Is Canceled
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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Luggage Locks: Should I Lock My Suitcase When I Fly?

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Each time you abandon your suitcase to the not-so-tender mercies of airline baggage handlers and TSA agents, you might wonder, “Should I have locked my luggage?” A study by Stratos , which charters jets, found that airline passengers filed almost 8,000 yearly claims against the TSA for losing items such as clothing, jewelry, and electronics: “In fact, JFK International Airport was once described as a ‘flea market for airport employees,’ with reports claiming that more than 200 items are stolen from passengers’ checked luggage every day.”

So, it’s clear you can’t count on the TSA to reimburse you for such losses; the agency denied more than half of the claims. Are luggage locks the answer?

The Benefits of Luggage Locks

Locking your suitcase doesn’t just make it more difficult for opportunistic baggage handlers or security officers to root through your stuff at the airport. A lock can also help hold your bag’s zippers together so they don’t work their way open while in transit, leaking socks and underwear all over the baggage carousel.

You might also want to lock your bag if you’re staying in a hostel with strangers, or while traveling on a crowded bus or train. Some travelers even lock their suitcases during the day at hotels to deter theft by housekeepers.

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

The Limitations of Luggage Locks

Putting a lock on your suitcase isn’t a guarantee that your stuff will be safe. Do a quick search on YouTube, and you’ll find a trove of videos explaining how to open a combination lock without the code or how to break into a locked suitcase with nothing but a ballpoint pen. Nor is it difficult to slice through a soft-sided bag. Locks discourage casual thieves, who will move on to easier targets, but they’re flimsy protection against those who are truly determined to get into your bag.

That’s why you should always keep any valuables in your carry-on , not your checked luggage. As noted above, the TSA is unlikely to pay you back if something is stolen from your checked bag, and airlines typically don’t accept liability for the loss of expensive items such as jewelry, electronic equipment, or fragile souvenirs.

TSA-Approved Locks

If you do decide to secure your suitcase, choose one of the many TSA-approved locks available, such as these combination locks from Master Lock or TravelMore . You can also buy keyed luggage locks such as these from Lewis N. Clark , though it’s worth considering how likely you might be to lose track of a tiny key while traveling. You can even purchase suitcases with built-in TSA-approved locks .

The TSA has master keys that allow agents to open all TSA-approved locks, if they determine that your bag needs extra screening. If you use a non-TSA lock, they’ll simply cut it off your bag. Note that not all security officers outside the U.S. have the same master keys, so even a TSA-approved lock could be cut off if you’re traveling internationally.

The Ultimate Packing List SmarterTravel

Alternatives to Luggage Locks

Another way to lock your suitcase is to use zip ties , which are cheap enough that you won’t mind if the TSA has to slice them off. Just remember to pack a small pair of scissors in an outside pocket of your suitcase.

Some travelers prefer to wrap their suitcases in plastic, which makes bags harder to break into, protects their exteriors from dings, and keeps them from bursting open if a zipper fails. This bagging service is offered at select airports by companies such as Seal & Go and Secure Wrap . Though security agents will cut off the plastic if they need to inspect your luggage more closely, some wrapping services offer a complimentary rewrap post-security. One disadvantage to this method: By generating so much plastic, it’s the least environmentally friendly way to protect your bag.

Looking for Luggage With a Lock?

“Sold separately” isn’t statement when it comes to the carry-on from Away . While including a TSA-approved lock in its design, this bag also comes with 360° spinning wheels, and a super hard exterior shell—this bag is built to be your last.

Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

What Can I Bring?

Planning ahead and packing properly can facilitate the screening process and ease your travel experience at the airport. Know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked baggage before arriving at the airport by reviewing the lists below. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns. Read about civil penalties for prohibited items .

• Twitter: @AskTSA
• Facebook Messenger:  www.fb.com/AskTSA
• Apple Business Chat: AskTSA
• Text Message: Text "Travel" to AskTSA (275-872)

The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.

Officers may ask you to power up your electronic device, including cell phones. Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard the aircraft. TSA does not read or copy information from your device.

Search by A-Z

Aerosol Insecticide

• Carry On Bags: No
• Checked Bags: Yes (Special Instructions)

Aerosol insecticides are not allowed in carry-on; however they are allowed in checked bags as long as they are not labeled as hazardous material (HAZMAT).

Air Mattress with Built-in Pump

• Carry On Bags: Yes (Special Instructions)
• Checked Bags: Yes

Air mattresses with built-in pump are allowed in carry-on bags. Please check with your airline for any size or weight restrictions.

Airbrush Make-up Machine

Devices containing lithium metal or lithium ion batteries should be carried in carry-on baggage.  Most other consumer devices containing batteries are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage.

For more information to portable electronic devices, see the FAA regulations.

Alcoholic beverages

• Carry On Bags: Yes (Less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed)

Check with your airline before bringing any alcohol beverages on board. FAA regulations prohibit travelers from consuming alcohol on board an aircraft unless served by a flight attendant.  Additionally, Flight Attendants are not permitted to serve a passenger who is intoxicated.

Alcoholic beverages with more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol are limited in checked bags to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger and must be in unopened retail packaging. Alcoholic beverages with 24% alcohol or less are not subject to limitations in checked bags. 

Mini bottles of alcohol in carry-on must be able to comfortably fit into a single quart-sized bag.

For more information, see FAA regulation: 49 CFR 175.10(a)(4).

Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof

• Checked Bags: No

Alcoholic beverages with more than 70% alcohol (over 140 proof), including grain alcohol and 151 proof rum. For more information, see FAA regulation: 49 CFR 175.10(a)(4).

Check with your airline if ammunition is allowed in checked bags. Small arms ammunitions must be securely packed in fiber, wood or metal boxes or other packaging specifically designed to carry small amounts of ammunition. Ask the airline about limitations or fees. Read the guidelines for traveling with firearms.

When traveling, be sure to comply with the laws concerning possession of firearms as they vary by local, state and international government.

• Carry On Bags: Yes

You may transport this item in carry-on or checked bags. For items you wish to carry on, you should check with the airline to ensure that the item will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Arc Lighters, Plasma Lighters, Electronic Lighters, E-Lighters

Measures must be taken to prevent unintentional activation of the heating element while on board the aircraft. Examples of effective measures to prevent unintentional activation include, but are not limited to: removing the battery from the lighter; placing the lighter into a protective case; and/or using a protective cover, safety latch, or locking device on the lighter's activation button.

Each lithium ion battery must not exceed a Watt-hour (Wh) rating of 100 Wh; or for lithium metal batteries, a lithium content of 2 grams.

Recharging of the devices and/or the batteries on board the aircraft is not permitted.

See FAA regulations for more information.

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Axes and hatchets, sharp objects, household & tools, sporting & camping, miscellaneous.

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Traveling Later

And Checking My Bag.

Here's Where You Can Store Your Luggage While Traveling

Depositphotos

Sometimes I wonder why I’m not the kind of traveler who can just sling a backpack over my shoulder and hit the road.

But I’m not — that kind of traveler.

I like to travel with a suitcase, which is any luggage bigger than a carry-on. What I love to do with that suitcase when I travel is A) give it to someone else to handle/carry right away (like the airline) and then B) drop it at my accommodations as soon as I arrive. When I leave, I want to take my bag straight to my next mode of transportation - the end.

May not sound like a legit traveler to you, but it’s legit the way I like to travel.

Minimize the baggage lugging. Please.

But even I can have issues ridding myself of luggage during a trips gap-time - now an official phrase I completely made up. It's the time between early morning flight arrivals and mid-day check-ins or mid-day check-outs and evening flights. Gap-time can even happen between flight arrival and a train departure.

You can usually pre-plan for where your luggage will go during a gap-time as you create your itinerary. The hotel might hold your luggage pre-check-in, or the AirBnB landlord may let you drop your bag early. Storage lockers could be available at the airport or train station (but you’d have to travel back and forth to retrieve them.)

But even with the best-made plans, you might find yourself with sights to see and luggage to drag. Hate it.

Maybe someone else can lug your bag for you while you sightsee? (Photo by Hilary Gardner)

NO. THANK. YOU.

If, for whatever reason, you find yourself with none of the usual places to store your suitcase - what do you do? Find a cafe or drag the bag along sightseeing?

Well, I’ve tried both, and neither worked for me. I once landed in Prague due to a rerouted flight and had a few hours for exploring before my train left. When I arrived at the station, the ticket seller delivered the bad news: no bag storage at the train station.

So? I found a cafe. First time in Prague and I ate the food and drank the wine, but saw no sights. Where were my iron-clad stamina and stare-proof tourist shield, fergawdsakes ?

Home, probably. And, true confessions, that’s not the only time I’ve done that. I can’t believe I’m telling you this. Ok, so one cold rainy morning I arrived in London hours before check-in, but the hotel politely informed me I needed to remain in possession of my bag. Again I chose the cafe and ate a long slow breakfast until check-in - three hours later.

I don’t know if you’d do the same thing, but would you consider it a good option? And how about your travel companion - are you on the same page?

Someone Babysit My Bags

After Prague, I kept thinking “there has to be a solution” for these gap-time situations. It must be a common problem for travelers.

And guess what I found?

Some companies exist solely to babysit your luggage! They have networks of locations, in different cities around the world, that will store your bags for a fee. The price for 24 hours is reasonable, and most offer insurance coverage per bag.

Each bag sitting company operates pretty much the same way, and that means more options and coverage per city/country. The luggage babysitting networks include hotels, local businesses, cafes, and retail shops. The process starts on a mobile-friendly website you’ll need to use for scheduling - and one company even has an app.

Here’s an overview of how they work:

You start by making your reservation online, or via an app, before your arrival. Once that’s done you’ll receive a confirmation email revealing the address and operating hours for the drop site.

Make sure you note the hours the location is open - and this is important. Most of the companies are flexible with slightly fluid travel schedules, but only to a point. What they can’t change is the times of operation of the drop site. Take this into account when you are booking your spot and make sure you check the rules each company sets up around this issue, in case you have to cancel.

You’ll pay for your time upfront on the companies website - except for one of the companies that charges after you pick-up your luggage. No money is paid directly to the drop site for your luggage.

And, finally, you drop your bags at the time arranged, and pickup before the drop site closes. Note that once you drop off your bags you can’t reaccess them until pick up, so take what you need before you drop them.

Cool, right? Why didn’t I know about this before Prague?!

Checkout These Companies

I haven’t had the chance to use the services of any of these companies. Yet.

I want you to know that upfront, although I’m planning on trying them out in San Francisco and will report back to you about my experience.

In the meantime, here’s all the information I’ve gathered so you can try them yourself. Make sure you leave a comment here if you’ve used any of them or another company I didn’t mention. Either way, let me know what you think.

The company’s website states they’re in 250 cities and 20 countries across Europe, North America, and Australia. You’ll find a list on the site, but download their app (for iOS or Android) to book storage. And the app has a map of potential drop sites so you can gauge distances for better planning.

The pricing in the US, for example, is $6/bag for the first 24 hours - regardless of bag size - and $4 for additional days. Bags are insured up to 1500 euros by AXA.

The basic procedures are to book ahead, via the app, choosing the most convenient locations for you. Once booked and paid, you receive an email with location information and SMS confirmation number. Bring this and a photo ID to the drop-off.

There’s a lot of information on Nannybag’s website regarding unexpected situations, like a drop site closing early, or severe flight delays, so make sure you read the site thoroughly. The bottom line is it sounds like they’re pretty flexible with cancellations but document with photos, etc.

And they’ve already kept over 350,000 bags at their network of “Nanny’s.”

Back in 2015, some travelers with the same question I asked (“there has to be a solution”) began to create a luggage storage network. Behold - Stasher, a company that operates similarly as Nannybag.com. They also have a convenient app!

Their “StashPoints” are also shops and hotels, and reservations are booked online - preferably before your trip. They charge six pounds/bag for the first 24 hours and five pounds for each additional 24 hours.

The process is similar, beginning with booking and paying online and receiving an email confirmation. Two differences from Nannybag.com are insurance coverage (up to 1000 pounds/bag) and flexibility of drop off and pick up times - as long as you stay within the timeframe that the StashPoint is open and your fees are paid.

Stasher also covers Europe, North America, and Australia, and they're open to cancelation refunds. Check the website to make sure you have their contact number and email and use those if you run into any issues at your destination. Oh, and they don’t just store luggage but bikes, strollers, and sports equipment too - according to their website.

Next up - a company that originated in Italy and expanded around the globe. BAGBNB.com uses “Angels” drop points, similar to the other companies, including shops and hotels.

You’ll go through the same process of booking your spot online, paying the fee, and waiting for your confirmation with the location information about your Angel. Any change in dropping or picking up bags can be communicated directly to the Angel, but if your itinerary changes or you need to cancel - the fee is non-refundable.

The cost is five euros/bag for 24 hours, and the insurance maxes out at 500 euros/bag. You’ll find an extensive network of Angels across Europe, North America, and Australia. They provide a rating of the different Angels, so you can consider that when you’re booking.

As with the other companies, there’s no limit to the size of bag you can leave at an Angel and no difference in price based on bag size.

So Many Options

Here’s a list of smaller luggage storage companies, the cities they cover, and basic costs (if disclosed on their website.) You may find these are a better fit for you, depending on where you’re traveling. Or combine them with these others - giving you more options - which spells convenience!

Love the name because - yes they are! A Danish company, they cover Copenhagen, London, and New York. Their website says $1/hour/bag plus a one time $2 handling fee, which might be less expensive than the others if you only need a few hours.

You know the drill by now: book online, pay with a credit card, and the drop information is emailed to you.

They offer insurance up to $2000/bag, but the best part about these guys? No charge if you don’t show up for your reservation - because, as they say on their website “that’s how they’d want to be treated.” Cool.

Same concept but a lot of interesting twists with this company. They operate in New York, San Francisco, and Boston. Their pricing? Well, that depends on how long you need to leave your luggage. They offer hourly storage at $2/hour, or all-day storage for a flat fee of $12, and both include insurance of $500/bag.

And if you want to leave bags for a more extended period? This company has you covered, charging $49 for a week of storage and up to $149 for an entire month (again - same insurance coverage/bag.)

Booking and paying are also unique with Knock Knock. When you book your reservation online, take a look at the map on their website and pick your drop off site (purple icon.)

At that point, you’ll receive a QR code which is scanned when you arrive at the drop off to start the clock ticking back at Knock Knock. When you pick up, the QR code is scanned again, and the exact fee is calculated based on the length of the ‘stay.’

Your credit card isn’t charged until you pick up your luggage. If you don’t show up for your reservation - no charge.

Another US option covers more cities with storage locations in New York, Washington DC, Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, Miami, Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. But visit their website to find and book a reservation.

Once there, you’ll find it resembles online booking sites for hotels, with locations coming up by availability and a map pinning the places. The basic pricing listed on the website is $5.95/day with discounts of 15% for week-long booking and 30% for a month.

But you’ll find when you search for a location there is variation in pricing by location. Searching for Los Angeles, I found several options at $5.95/day as well as places quoting $6.95/day. Checking New York gave me options for $5.95, $6.95, $7.50, $7.95, and  $10/day.

Vertoe has insurance coverage of $3000, although the website doesn’t make it clear if this is per bag coverage or a maximum per customer. You book and pay the storage fee online at the same time, but if your plans change - cancel your reservation online to get a refund.

The Rest of the World

Since it seems like these companies have the US, Europe, and Australia covered, I did a little search for the rest of the world. I found small, one-city companies offering similar services at multiple locations, with varying prices, and insurance coverage. My advice - which I fully plan to follow myself! - is to make this a regular part of pre-planning when you travel.

At the very least, you may find storage at the airport, train, or bus stations, or your hotel. You won’t know unless you check it out ahead of time. And believe me - it’s worth the effort to sightsee luggage free! (she says as she hangs her head in shame.) What a boondoggle my little Prague stop could’ve been if I’d known these companies existed.

Well, now we all know!

Safe Travels!

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Watch CBS News

The best TSA-approved luggage locks

By Rachel Center

Edited By Leslie Gornstein

September 16, 2024 / 8:28 PM EDT / Essentials

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

Travel with greater peace of mind by getting a TSA-approved luggage lock. Attaching a lock to your suitcases , carry-on backpacks or duffel bags will ensure that your personal items won't get taken out of your luggage while in transit, in the hotel, or locked up at the train station.

Any luggage lock will work for that kind of protection, but a TSA-approved luggage lock is even better, and, in our opinion, always worth the extra expense. These luggage locks allow TSA agents do to their job with greater ease, should they be required to search your bags. They also won't damage your lock in the process, because they have their own means of opening it. 

With so much travel happening now with leaf-peeping season, we rounded up the best TSA-approved luggage locks you can find online. Check out our top picks, which are all customer-loved and boast a four-star rating or higher from shoppers. 

Best TSA-approved luggage locks: 

• Best TSA-approved luggage lock: Forge TSA-approved cable luggage lock
• Best TSA-approved key luggage lock: Master Lock 4689T TSA-approved keyed lock

Best affordable TSA-approved luggage lock: Master Lock TSA luggage lock

• Most versatile TSA-approved luggage lock: BV Store TSA-approved luggage travel lock
• Best splurge TSA-approved luggage lock: Tumi assorted three-pack TSA lock

Best TSA-approved luggage lock: Forge TSA-approved cable luggage locks

These are the bestselling luggage locks on Amazon, boasting a 4.7-star rating out of more than 17,000 ratings from customers. And it's easy to see why. First, you get great value for the price. The price of one luggage lock in this set is less than what you'd pay for some individual locks, so you might as well get the pack of four. These extra will come in handy, as you can put one on your checked bag , carry-on suitcase , travel backpack and more. This pack will be especially convenient for families traveling .

We love that it comes with an alert that activates when TSA agents have unlocked your lock, not to mention the color choices, ranging from lime green to lavender. Plus, you can change your combination at any time, which is not all that common with combination locks in general. 

The four pack of Forge TSA-approved cable luggage locks has more than 14,500 five-star ratings from shoppers. One reviewer wrote , "These work great. Bought the cheap ones. They were junk. These are very good." 

Another customer said , "I do quite a bit of flying and appreciate these locks. Not only do they work well but they're pretty too. A win-win!" 

Best TSA-approved key luggage lock: Master Lock 4689T TSA-approved keyed lock 

To ensure the utmost security, some people may feel more comfortable with a lock that has a key. This Master Lock offers that level of assurance. The keyfob has a hole that you can easily loop through your keyring. And with two, you can put one on your suitcase as well as a personal item with zippers. What's more, you can get these for 31% off for a limited time. 

The  Master Lock 4689T TSA-approved keyed lock has a 4.5-star rating on Amazon. One reviewer wrote , "The locks held up during a two-week vacation in Japan that had to cover seven cities in 13 days. I was relieved every time my luggage came off a different flight that the locks had done their job!" 

Another customer said , "We have to store our luggage a lot when traveling in Europe. These are perfect for securing our luggage." 

Value aside, if you don't need a two- or four-pack of luggage locks, don't get them. If you're a one-suitcase kind of traveler, get this single luggage lock from Master Lock. It's only $9, and with its metal materials, including steel, it can take all kinds of beatings in transit. It comes in four colors and has a slim shackle cable, which may be easier to stick through zippers.

The Master Lock TSA luggage lock has a 4.3-star rating on Amazon. One reviewer wrote , "Works great! We used these locks on our backpacks in the more ~nefarious~ cities we visited in Europe, and didn't have any issues!" 

Another customer said , "Well made and has a good feel to them. Easy to access. Was exactly what I needed for a recent trip. Was able to secure backpack zippers that were ill-arranged." 

Most versatile TSA-approved luggage lock: BV Store TSA-approved luggage travel lock 

This luggage lock two-pack stands out for its long and thin shackle cable. Some traditional shackles are too thick to fit into some zippers, but with this slim cable, you'll likely have more success with the zippers on a wider range of travel bags and luggage. They could also be used for securing your gym locker, a cabinet or shed door at home.

In addition to its multi-use capabilities, we also like that this comes with a red button that reveals itself if someone has opened your lock. 

The BV Store TSA-approved luggage travel lock has a 4.5-star rating on Amazon. One reviewer wrote , "[The lock] gives you more flexibility than traditional TSA locks for various bags where the traditional lock would not work." 

Another customer said , "Love these travel locks. The length and flexibility of the chain part is very helpful, which Is what drew me to these locks." 

Best splurge TSA-approved luggage locks: Tumi assorted three-pack TSA locks

Leave it to Tumi to create a stylish and luxurious version of a product as purely functional as a TSA lock. If you have the extra money and want to go high end with your luggage locks, splurge on this Tumi set. 

The set comes with luggage locks made up of three different colors, including red, a shiny silver and a striking gunmetal black. The contrasting colors on the Tumi logo make sure that the designer name is visible to all. 

We've written extensively about Tumi as a luggage brand, so we're confident that you'll get style as well as quality with this purchase. 

Rachel Center is a writer with more than eight years of experience creating lifestyle content for brands such as Better Homes & Gardens, Real Simple and Apartment Therapy.

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Keep your belongings safe and secure with the best TSA-approved luggage locks of 2024.

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Cruise embarkation day guide: How to start your sailing off smoothly

• Cruise lines typically notify guests via email or their app that they can check in and choose from several arrival times.
• Once on board, the first thing to do is go to your muster station, a designated meeting point for guests and crew in the event of an emergency.
• Staterooms on major cruise lines are typically available around 1 p.m. after crew members finish turning them over from the previous sailing.

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When Mike Smith takes a cruise , he doesn’t waste any time. Cabins often aren’t ready for guests until early afternoon, so the 35-year-old brings a swimsuit in his backpack and changes in one of the public bathrooms after boarding. Then he grabs a drink and sits by the pool.

“I really want to use my two hours to relax, enjoy,” said Smith, who teaches American Sign Language and makes travel content on his Instagram account . “I don't want to have to idly walk around and wait for my luggage.”

While Smith – who has taken nearly 10 cruises just in the past two years – has his embarkation day routine down, first-time passengers may find themselves wondering what parts of the ship are open, when their luggage will arrive and more.

Here’s what to expect.

How do I prepare for cruise embarkation day?

Smith starts getting ready to board well before his departure date.

Cruise lines typically notify guests via email or their app that they can check in and choose from several arrival times. Smith said he tries to get the “earliest boarding time possible.”

“I'll try my very best to do it that day when they (say) you can,” he said. Cruise lines encourage guests to check in ahead of time.

“Due to government regulations requiring cruise lines to submit final departure manifests at least 60 minutes prior to sailing, guests are requested to complete check-in no later than 3 days prior to their cruise,” Royal Caribbean International said on its website , for example. “If you do not complete check-in 3 days prior, you will be required to complete this process at the pier at least two hours prior to the published sailing time.”

Smith also likes to look over the deck plans for the ship, which are usually available online, to familiarize himself with the layout. 

“Otherwise, sometimes day one becomes, like, walking to one end of the ship and going, ‘Oh, wait, it's not over here, it's over there,’ and then turning around,” he said. “And I think mitigating any kind of frustration is always a good way to start a cruise.”

What happens on cruise embarkation day?

At the port, passengers can check luggage with a porter and go through security before getting on the ship.

Once on board, Smith said the “first, first, first, first” thing he does is go to his muster station, a designated meeting point for guests and crew in the event of an emergency. Muster drills used to be more involved , but the process can usually now be completed by watching a safety video and checking in at the assigned locale. All guests must do so before the ship sets sail.

“I think a lot of people, especially people who haven’t cruised in a long time, they might have my childhood trauma, which was putting on that life jacket and standing outside by the lifeboats and listening to the horn blow and going through all those instructions,” he said. “And every cruise I've been on now for the past two years, everything's in the app.”

In Smith’s experience, staterooms on major cruise lines are typically available around 1 p.m. after crew members finish turning them over from the previous sailing.

Checked luggage is left outside guests’ cabins, but delivery times can vary. Smith tries to bring enough items in his backpack – which he carries with him during boarding – that he doesn’t need anything from his suitcase until the evening.

Once his bags arrive, he “1000%” unpacks everything that day. “I like to do it; my boyfriend is adamant about it,” he said. “He's the driving force.”

Once the suitcases are empty, they slide them under the bed, which can create some extra room for guests in the sometimes tight quarters of cruise cabins.

What’s open on embarkation day?

Smith has found that many onboard amenities are accessible to guests on embarkation day.

But there is one he likes to avoid just after boarding: the buffet. Many passengers tend to go straight there, causing it to get packed.

He prefers to eat before getting on the ship, so he doesn't have to worry about grabbing food right away.

Other venues, like specialty restaurants, may also not be open until dinner on the first day of a cruise.

From cell service to Wi-Fi: How to stay connected on a cruise ship

And while large cruise ships often have a range of retail stores, they generally aren’t open while in port. Smith recommended that guests bring items like sunscreen and any medications they might need in case the shops are closed or they don’t have what they’re looking for.

He also uses time after embarkation to make reservations for specialty dining and peruse the entertainment schedule, making notes on his phone of the activities and shows he and his boyfriend want to attend.

“And then I just put whatever we're doing there so we don't have to really think about anything because the last thing I really want to do on vacation is think a lot,” Smith said.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

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• At the airport

Delayed or damaged bags

File a bag report.

If your bag is delayed or damaged, you can file a report on the go and may not need to visit the airport Baggage Service Office.

How it works:

• Find our sign with a QR code at Baggage Claim
• Scan the QR code or visit the site using your device
• Enter your last name and American confirmation code or bag tag number to begin

This service is available for trips ending in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Delayed bags

Bags can sometimes be delayed, even with our best efforts. If you can’t find your bags after landing, file a report before leaving the airport.

For flights within the U.S., report delayed bags:

• Within 4 hours of arriving at your destination
• Within 12 hours of arriving if you used Bags VIP Luggage Delivery

For international flights, report delayed bags upon arriving at your destination and before leaving the airport.

The agent will give you a 13-character file ID when you file a report. You can use the file ID to submit a claim for your delayed bags and check the status of your bags.

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Bags delayed 5+ days

If your bag has been missing for 5 or more days, we need more information to help you. To get started, submit an online claim using the 13-character file ID you received at the airport.

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Our Central Baggage Resolution Office will do everything they can to locate your bag. If they’re unsuccessful a final decision about your claim will be made in accordance with our:

• Conditions of carriage
• Liability for international flights

This decision will be sent to you by email.

Reimbursement

We will reimburse you for the reasonable and necessary items you need immediately while away from home without your bags. To be reimbursed send this information to us within 30 days of your delay:

• Your 13-character file ID
• A copy of your ticket receipt and baggage claim checks
• Your original, dated, itemized receipts

If we can't find your bag, any expense reimbursement will be deducted from the final settlement amount.

How to submit your claim

The quickest way to submit your claim and verification items is to submit them online.

If you can't submit online, you can send your claim and verification items along with a completed Passenger Property Questionnaire by mail. Keep in mind it may take longer for us to receive it through the mail and our response may be delayed.

American Airlines Central Baggage P.O. Box 619619 DFW Airport, TX 75261-9616

Complete the questionnaire (PDF) Opens a PDF in a new window.

Damaged bags

Bags may get damaged when they’re checked, even with our best efforts. If you notice damage to your bags after landing, file a report before leaving the airport.

• For flights within the U.S., file a report before leaving the airport, or within 24 hours of receiving your bags.*
• For international flights, file a report before leaving the airport, or within 7 days of receiving your bags.

We’ll give you a 13-character file incident number (file ID) when you report your bag as damaged. You can use the file ID to submit a claim.

• Liability limitations

* You must report damage to delayed bags on flights within the U.S. within 24 hours of receiving them.

If Transportation Security Administration (TSA) inspects your bag, they’ll place a written notification inside or a seal on the outside. If you think the damage was caused by the inspection, contact TSA at 866-289-9673.

• Don't over-pack. Over-packing can cause stress on seams and zippers, making it more likely to tear or break.
• Don't check bags that won’t close completely. Bags that don't close completely leaves your belongings exposed to damage.
• Avoid checking carry-on items like laptops, briefcases and totes.
• Don't travel with extremely old or worn bags. These bags are more likely to break or tear.
• Don't pack restricted items.

Restricted items

Missing contents

We will not accept liability for missing items inside a checked bag on flights within the U.S. unless it has been reported as delayed or damaged.

If your bag was delayed or damaged and you notice missing items after it’s delivered, you must file a missing items claim within 24 hours of receiving your bag for flights within the U.S., or 7 days for international flights.

Flying on a partner airline?

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

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