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The 7 Best Rolling Suitcases According to Travel Experts

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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The right luggage can make or break a trip. Choosing a rolling suitcase makes things easier, allowing you to smoothly pull your luggage behind you as you walk through through the airport or train station.

With hundreds of rolling suitcases on the market, how do you know which one is the best? Choose an inferior bag and you could end up struggling with a wonky wheel or a zipper that won’t stay closed. We consulted our team of expert travelers at SmarterTravel to find out which wheeled suitcases are the best for every type of traveler.

Roam Luggage Carry-On Front Pocket Expandable

Hardsided suitcases are great, but if you need something inside (like your laptop or boarding pass) it can be annoying to have to open the entire bag up. Roam Luggage’s Carry-On Front Pocket Expandable solves this problem, offering the durability of a hard-sided shell along with the convenient front pocket design of a soft-sided suitcase.  

The suitcase is expandable (in case you buy too many souvenirs) and can be custom-designed, allowing you to choose the colors for every part of the bag, right down to the wheels. 

Samsonite Black Label Cosmolite 3.0 Carry-On Spinner

Many international airlines will weigh your carry-on suitcases, so choosing a lightweight wheeled bag can go a long way towards ensuring you’re actually allowed to bring your bag with you in the cabin. Samsonite’s Black Label Cosmolite 3.0 Carry-On Spinner weighs a mere 3.7 lbs, making it one of the lightest wheeled suitcases on the market.

The Cosmolite integrates helpful features including a TSA-approved lock, ID tag, and zippered divider on the top compartment for extra storage space. 

Amazon Basics 30” Hardside Spinner

If you plan on checking your luggage, maximize the amount you can bring with Amazon Basics’ 30” Hardside Spinner Suitcase. This bag is an affordable option for a suitcase of this size—and it even expands for up to 15 percent more packing space. 

The four double-spinner wheels make this suitcase easy to pull, even for a bag this big.  

How to Pack for a Week-Long Trip

Beis Soft-Sided Collapsible Carry-On Roller

Beis’ Collapsible Carry-On Roller is perfect for people with limited storage space at home, or for trips like cruises where you may not have a good place to stash your suitcase in your room.

When you’re not using the suitcase, it can be condensed down to be nearly flat. The suitcase includes a pouch set to keep dirty clothes and shoes separated, a padded laptop pocket, and a detachable compression flap. 

Monos Carry-On Pro Plus

Frequent flyers fear the dreaded gate checking of bags after the overhead bins have run out of space. Maintain full control over your bag with Monos’ Carry-On Pro Plus , a wheeled suitcase that fits under your seat, classifying it as a personal item for most airlines.

Despite the bag’s small size, it can still fit a 16” laptop plus enough clothing and shoes to last you at least through a weekend trip.

Quince Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase

Quince’s Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase is a dupe of more expensive suitcases, but costs just $129, making it one of the best affordable spinner suitcases on the market. The suitcase is equipped with interior compression panels that allow you to pack between six to nine outfits inside, plus a removable laundry bag to keep your dirty clothes separate. 

This suitcase comes in eye-catching colors, like green or bright blue, so you’ll always know which bag is yours.

Ultimate Packing List for a Family Road Trip

Away The Bigger Carry-On

For extra-long trips (or chronic overpackers), Away’s The Truck is designed with extra capacity in mind. This 31” suitcase can hold over 20 outfits, and the 360 degree spinner wheels create a smooth glide, no matter how heavy you pack it.

The unique 30/70 lid opening helps keep you organized, allowing you to separate essentials like toiletries and chargers in the slimmer top compartment and your shoes and clothes in the larger bottom section.

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

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

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

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

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

Best Overall: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Original – Large

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

Best Hard-sided: Away The Carry-On

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

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

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

Best luxury: carl friedrik the carry-on pro.

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

Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

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

Price:  $315 or less

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

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

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

What our editors say:

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

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

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $369.99 or less

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

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

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

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

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $275 or less

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

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

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

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

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $199.99 or less

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

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

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

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

Price: $245 or less

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

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

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

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $179.99 or less

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

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

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

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Price: $80 or less

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $699 or less

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

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $165 or less

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

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

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

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

Price: $83 or less

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

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

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

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

Price: $565 or less

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $270 or less

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

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

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

Price: $200 or less

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

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

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

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

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

Also Recommended

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

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

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

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

Pros and Cons of Hard-sided Luggage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How We Tested

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

You might also be interested in:

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

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Meet the award-winning Carry-On Closet® suitcase. Engineered with our patented built-in closet system, indestructible polycarbonate shell, and integrated USB charging port, The Carry-On Closet® luggage will keep you organized anywhere your travels take you. Looking for a larger size? See our Check-In Closet .

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Carry-On Closet Medium

Guaranteed to be accepted as carry-on for all major airlines.

Carry-On Closet Large

A large carry-on, approved for 90% of international airlines and almost all US Domestic airlines.

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Why We Made It

After three years of living on the road, our Founder Adrian Solgaard, realized that keeping a tidy room was impossible.

So he designed the perfect suitcase. The Carry-On Closet has a patented, five-shelf closet to keep you organized anywhere, it also acts as compression cubes to help you save space.

The Carry-On Closet was recognized by TIME Magazine as the Best Travel Invention of the year.

• Patented Five-Shelf Shelving System To Keep You Organized

• Easily Accessible USB Charging Port For On-The-Go Power

• Frictionless Wheels That Barely Make a Sound

• TSA Approved Three-Digit Lock

• Unbreakable Polycarbonate Shell And Aluminum Frame

• Ergonomic Handle For Maximum Comfort and Control

• Cleans up 6 lbs of ocean-bound plastic from coastal communities.

• Interior Shore-Tex ® lining, made from 100% recycled plastic

Unpack In Seconds

Our unique patented closet has five shelves, a compression strap to maximize storage, and is cleverly weighted to stay balanced when you're using it.

Your Closet, Your Terms

Every trip is different, so we designed the closet to be easily removable. If you need to pack a little extra, plan to go shopping on your trip, or want to hang it from your hotel clothing rack, simply remove it.

Charge On The Fly

Charge your devices without tumbling through your belongings. Just connect your charging cord to the back center of the suitcase, and power up.

Opens in a Pinch

Just one pinch, no zipper wrestling necessary. Equipped with a 3-digit combination lock.

The Strong & Silent Type

Our frictionless wheels make cruising through a busy airport a breeze. They’re game for any terrain (including shag carpet), and will help you swerve around  that guy  who decided to stop in the middle of the terminal.

Bends But Never Breaks

The polycarbonate shell is paired with a lightweight aluminum frame, making it virtually indestructible. The ribbed design provides first-line protection against bumps and scrapes. It’s also waterproof, scratch resistant,  is equipped with a TSA-approved lock, and is backed by a lifetime guarantee.

Sleek and chic.

The best travel companion.

Easy carry.

Main squeeze.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Flowcloset™ system how to pack.

To use the FlowCloset™ system, pack with the shelf fully extended 1) Open the suitcase door 90 degrees. Clip together both hanging latches to keep suitcase from extending further than 90 degrees. 2) Lift the shelf up and hang from the suitcase handle. 3) Pack each shelf to 60-70% full. 4) To close, lower the shelf into the suitcase, compress into place, and close the suitcase. Use the compression straps if you're packing in a lot of bulky items. When you arrive at your destination, simply reverse these steps to unpack!

Features Full details of features

• Removable, self-supporting shelving system (patented)

• Easy access USB port for charging on-the-go (powerbank not included)

• Frictionless 360 degree wheels

• TSA approved three digit lock

• Unbreakable polycarbonate shell

• One-pinch opening mechanism

• Ergonomic grip handle for maximum comfort and control

• Ribbed design for easy overhead bin sliding without damage

• Each suitcase sold cleans up 6 lbs of ocean-bound plastic from coastal communities.

Dimensions + Weight Measurements of suitcase and shelving unit

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Carry On Closet Medium

External: 53 x 34 x 23cm (20.8 x 13.4 x 9in)* Internal: 48 x 33 x 22cm (19 x 13 x 8.7in) Weight: 7.5lbs**

Carry On Closet Large

External: 57 x 37 x 24cm (22.4 x 14.6 x 9.6in)* Internal: 52.5 x 35.5 x 23.5cm (20.6 x 14 x 9.3in) Weight: 8.1**

* These measurements include the wheels ** These measurements do not include the weight of the closet insert (.75lbs,.4kg)

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It's a nice suitcase, it's just not optimal for me, I could only use one side otherwise it wouldn't close. I didn't stuff it, the compression strap just doesn't help it lay flat. I will be returning it.

I travel A LOT, I was always a monos girly until I saw this brand. I did a lot of research, watched tons of reviews online and finally but the bullet. My first trip using the luggage was as a carry on, immediately at the airport I noticed the wheels catching, making it almost impossible to wheel around the airport when I got to my destination I looked at the wheels and three of them were wobbly. I contacted Solgaard, they wanted photos, so I gave them photos and videos. They offered to send me one replaced. I had to send them more videos showing three wheels were wobbly. They then sent me 4 replacements wheels. These were EXTREMELY difficult to replace. I would NEVER buy anymore luggage from this company, the customer service wasn’t that helpful and my FIRST travel my luggage was already unserviceable. They did not offer a replacement luggage. Also the luggage has a tag that says designed in the USA but made in China. I am sticking back to Monos.

Amazing product.

The best suitcases around. Durable, hold a ton, nice looking, love the no-zip closure.

People love traveling the world with us.

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The Absolute Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024

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 long 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 carry-on 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 2024.

How we tested

To help us recommend the absolute best luggage to our readers, more than a dozen Condé Nast Traveler editors and contributors spent months (and in some cases, years) road-testing the newest and best-selling bags from top travel brands. These bags accompanied us near and far on planes, trains, buses, and cruises, from local staycations and Hamptons getaways to the Paris Olympics and Marlon Brando’s private island in French Polynesia. We packed these bags to the brim, lifted them into overhead bins, rolled them down cobblestone streets, and inspected every bump and scuff they endured. We considered each bag's weight, capacity, functionality, price point, and how well it held up after several trips. We also identified smart design features that make a bag stand out from its competitors, like having weight indicators, separate shoe compartments, or ample pockets. After traveling with each bag, we carefully reviewed them, keeping the aforementioned criteria in mind to determine which ones are worth the cost and a spot in our Luggage Week lineup.

This article is part of Condé Nast Traveler' s second annual 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 soft-side carry-on: TravelPro Crew Carry-On
• Best expandable carry-on: Monos Expandable Carry-On

Hard-shell carry-ons

Soft-sided carry-ons.

The Béis Carry-On Roller in beige, and MZ Wallace's Metro Tote Deluxe in black

Weight: 8.2 lb. Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9" Capacity: 43.7L Expandable: No

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 associate articles director 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.

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

Weight:  7.8 lb. Dimensions: 22" × 14" × 11  Capacity: 53L Expandable : Yes

Before Monos launched its expandable collection this summer, commerce editor Meaghan Kenny's most-used, most beloved carry-on was the brand’s original carry-on . And while it got top marks for its durability, smooth wheels, and interior organization, her one qualm was that it wasn't expandable. “I overpack my suitcase every time, whether I’m traveling for two weeks or two days, so that extra wiggle room means a lot to me.” When an expandable version launched this summer, she couldn’t wait to get her hands on it. Since then, it's come with her on a few weekend trips, including a four-day girls trip to Montauk in which she packed four daytime outfits, a few sundresses for dinners, a few bathing suits, cover-ups, sandals, and heels. Inside, there is a zippered compartment with a large mesh section that lets you keep some items separated; this comes in handy on the way back from your trip if you want to separate dirty clothes or liquid products. The other side of the suitcase features a built-in, removable compression pad with a zippered pocket for flat items. “The compression pad really helps keeps items secure, and flattens them so I can fit even more clothing.” At $305, it’s reasonably priced—especially when considering its expandability, durability, and sleek look, Kenny says. “I’ve tried out much more expensive carry-ons that quickly become scuffed up after one trip. This carry-on is sturdy enough to handle some wear and tear and offers lots of internal organization, making it well worth the price point for me.”

Pros:  TSA-approved lock, expandable, compression pad, dent-resistant Cons: Not the lightest carry-on I’ve ever used; bulky to lift when expanded

Weight: 8.36 lbs. Dimensions : 23" x 16" x 10" Capacity: 49–61L Expandable: Yes

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 writer 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.”

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

Weight: 7.9 lb. Dimensions: 23" x 15" x 9.5" Capacity: 47.9L Expandable: No

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, Away's Bigger Carry-On is 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.” This bestseller comes with a laundry bag and features interior compression straps that helps you fit extra clothing.

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

Weight:  8.6 lb. Capacity: 40L Dimensions: 22" x 15" x 9.5" Expandable: No

“This suitcase is absolutely gorgeous,” says associate editor Matt Ortile . “The Carl Friedrik tagline really means it: You walk around with this dashing thing, rolling along the way, whether in Montmartre or Union Station, and you fully carry it and yourself with confidence.” Ortile has brought it to Saudi Arabia, Portofino, Washington DC, and Paris (twice). “I am a serial overpacker and this has me covered for anywhere from two days to five days max,” Ortile says. “I think it will be good for much lighter packers , covering them for an average of a week, especially if you’re traveling with just this and a personal item.” The biggest reason to get this trunk-style suitcase: the way it rolls. “It moves beautifully, smoothly rolling over hard floors and carpet alike.” Also, it's so sturdy, it's basically a chair. “I sit on it whenever I’m waiting in line at the airport and I don’t worry about it caving in or collapsing,” he says. Really, though, it's the kind of suitcase made for a luxury traveler. “It's the kind of bag that will look right at home as the valets at a five-star hotel load it into your Uber Black; someone who doesn’t have to worry about the weight because they’re flying business or first class.”

Pros:  Incredibly good-looking and sturdy; moves on all terrain like a dream Cons: Heavy

Weight: 3.9 lb. Dimensions: 21" x 14" × 7.5" Capacity: 32L Expandable: No

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.

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

Weight: 8.1 lb. Dimensions: 23" x 15" x 10.3" Capacity: 47L Expandable: No

This Arlo Skye zipper-front suitcase has gone on many trips with Spurrell —she alternates between this and the 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.”

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

Weight: 6.3 lb. Dimensions: 23" x 14.5" x 9.5" Capacity: 46L Expandable: Yes

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.”

Pros: Lightweight and fits a lot of clothing and shoes Cons: Hard to lift when heavy; hard to clean/get scuffs out

Calpak's Hue carry-on in the lobby of The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel

Weight: 7.6 lb. Dimensions: 21" x 14" x 9" Capacity: 39L Expandable : Yes

“This is the first hard-shell carry-on I’ve used, and I've really enjoyed it,” says destinations editorial assistant Kat Chen . “My loyalty to the soft-sided bag came from the belief that I needed flexible and expandable luggage, but the Hue hard-shell is that and more, with its added bonus of being easier to dust off and endure more wear and tear.” On trips to Massachusetts and Tennessee, she's found it easy to maneuver and lift into overhead compartments, which Chen says she “sometimes struggles with as a shorter person.” The interior of the bag is pretty standard—“This is a bag that isn’t trying to do anything new—it's just mastering the basics,” Chen says—with a couple of mesh zips in front of a bigger pocket that opens into one half of the luggage shell. “On my last trip, I added some extra clothing items to pad my devices in this pocket, and it really lightened my backpack’s usual load.” Colors range from straight-out-of-a-crayon-box shades to deeper gem tones, Chen says. “The glossiness of the shell and its beveled corners remind me of an ice pop.”

Pros: Lightweight, spacious for its size, easy-to-use TSA-approved lock, expandable Cons: No padded pocket for devices

Weight:  7.74 lb. Dimensions: 23" x 15" x 10" Capacity: 44L Expandable: No

“This bag looks so good and is so easy to use that I may be officially converted from a stringent duffel backpack proponent to wheeled-suitcase lover,” says associate editor Hannah Towey . She brought the suitcase on a trip to Paris for the Olympics , as well as on several train rides between NYC and Connecticut. “For how sturdy the suitcase is, it’s incredibly lightweight, with a gorgeous Vermilion interior with dual compartments, compression cross straps, a zippered divider, and a mesh pocket for storing your delicates.” On her trip to Paris, she was able to fit a week’s worth of clothing and three pairs of shoes (loafers, sandals, and kitten heels). It's exceptionally easy to both carry and wheel, she says. “These wheels have survived the potholes and cracks of New York City sidewalks and effortlessly glide across the terminal floor,” Towey says. “As a New Yorker who lives in a six-floor walkup, I almost always prefer a carry-on duffel bag with backpack straps because rolling a suitcase up and down the stairs and over the sidewalk, then down to the subway is a major pain. But with two handle options (one on the top and one on the side), carrying this lightweight carry-on was much less arduous—and saved my back the strain.

Pros:  Perfect balance of luxury aesthetics and functionality Cons: The shell did get a small dent after I checked it on a flight

Weight:  6.8 lb. Dimensions: 23" x 16" x 11.5" Capacity: 57L Expandable : Yes

“The Quince Expandable Carry-On may be my new favorite carry-on,” Brock says. “I love the beautiful tan color, but the best part is how smoothly it rolls.” While testing it out, she took the suitcase on a two-and-a-half-week domestic trip, fitting all the clothes she needed, including a few pairs of shoes. “I had plenty of room in the two mesh pockets for smaller items even with it full, and the suitcase was lightweight and easy to carry and place in the overhead bins.” It did get scratched fairly easily, so if that'll bother you, opt for one of the darker colors, rather than the tan hue shown above. For those who prefer to travel a little lighter, Chapel recommends the non-expandable carry-on from Quince, too.

Pros:  Expandable, comes with a laundry bag and compression panels Cons: Just four color options

Weight:  6.4 lb. Dimensions: 23" x 15" x 10" Expandable : Yes

Among the lighter suitcases on this list, the Samsonite Outline Pro carry-on is easy to lift when needed, associate social media manager Emily Adler says. She brought it on two road trips this summer, and appreciated how nicely it rolled when full. She's experienced no scratches or issues with the hardware so far, and counts the eco-conscious Recyclex fabric, TSA-approved lock, and extra inch of space when expanded as standout features. There aren't a ton of bells and whistles here, but if you're looking for a good solid workhorse for weekend trips, it's “very sturdy, well-made, and gets the job done well,” Adler says. “It’s not the most stylish piece of luggage, but it is definitely practical.”

Pros:  Rolls nicely, easy to use, no tricky features Cons: Not the most aesthetically pleasing luggage for someone who is more fashion-forward

Weight: 6.53 lb. Dimensions: 21.5" x 15" x 9.5" Expandable: Yes

This hard-shell 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.” Kenny agrees, calling it an overpacker's dream bag. The hardside spinner comes in black, navy, bright blue, and orange.

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

TravelPro's color options range from basic black to this gorgeous elemental blue

Weight: 10 lb.  Dimensions: 20" x 14" x 7.9" Capacity: 37-48L Expandable: Yes

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).

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

Weight:  7.17 lb. Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9" Capacity: 37L Expandable: No

Visuals editor Andrea Edelman has taken this versatile suitcase to and from New York City on three separate occasions. She appreciates how light it is on its own, and the separate mesh compartments inside that help keep your things organized. It is best sized for three to five days' worth of clothing, with an exterior half-size compartment to holds accessories or small items (though, unfortunately, not a laptop). “So far I have not had any scratches or issues and the material seems very durable,” Edelman says. “The best part about this bag is how smooth the wheels are—it is so easy to wheel around an airport.” It's also easy to pick up, thanks to a discreet side handle.

Pros:  Smooth-gliding wheels Cons: Outer pocket doesn't fit a laptop

Weight:  9.2 lb. Dimensions: 23" x 16" x 9" Capacity: 43L Expandable: Yes

Away may be best known for its hard-shell bags , but the brand has recently stepped over to the soft side. Senior destinations editor Shannon McMahon put the new Softside Bigger Carry-On to the test on two plane trips and one road trip, saying the soft-sided suitcase held up well. “I’d recommend this for a long weekend’s worth of clothes as a rule of thumb,” she says. “I depended on it for some spring weather layers on a weeklong trip to the Pacific Northwest and got by thanks to its expandability—but because of the weight of the bag itself, it can get heavy fast.” The zippers open and close smoothly, and the wheels are just as effortless. “Its 360-degree wheels swivel and roll seamlessly, and the interior pocket that compresses everything down keeps it from getting front-heavy and toppling over, even with a laptop in the front cushioned sleeve,” she says.

Pros:  Style, compartments, stability, and add-ons like the portable charger Cons: Overall weight, non-waterproof outer

Weight:  6.8 lb. Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9" Capacity: 38L Expandable: Yes

Sanidad has brought this suitcase on a trip to the Bahamas and two trips to upstate New York , and says of its size, “there’s ample room to pack options for shorter trips.” Of the construction: “One side has a mesh zippered compartment for flatter items, and the other part is a deep section for clothes,” she says. “It also comes with a removable flap-like organizer with two zippered pouches for storing smaller things like toiletries and rolls of socks.” She describes it as a bag that's “suitable for anyone who wants a sturdy, thoughtful piece of luggage for short trips,” and particularly liked the removable interior flap that can be used to store smaller items and keep them in their own separate space.

Pros:  Expandable; durable enough to check Cons: Only comes in three “traditional” colors; tends to roll away on its own

Weight: 6.14 lb. Dimensions: 12" x 14" x 22" Capacity: 38L Expandable: No

Adventure travelers looking for a new soft-sided suitcase will appreciate Cotopaxi's Allpa 38L Roller Bag. I brought this suitcase on a weeklong trip to Panama earlier this summer, and it fit easily into airplane overhead bins (even on a small inter-country flight), Ubers, and a shuttle bus. I was able to fit eight days' worth of clothes inside, though to be fair, since it was warm climate, I mostly packed smaller, lightweight pieces like sundresses, shorts, and tank tops. For colder climate, I think it’d be best for three- or four-day trips. The only downside to it was its two wheels—I've gotten used to four-wheel bags, and of placing my backpack or tote bag over the handle while moving through the airport. Since you have to roll this one at an angle, it gets a bit difficult if you try to put something on top. Something I loved: The outside compression straps are great shrinking down the width of the bag.

Pros: Water-resistant exterior; durable; great for adventure travel Cons: Only has two wheels

Weight:  6.5 lb. Dimensions: 21" x 14" x 9" Capacity: 37L Expandable: No

Wilson brought this bag on two separate weekend trips to Maine this summer, and recommends it as a great option for college students starting to build out their luggage set. The fabric is thick, durable, and made of recycled materials, and the interior is simple, with one large compartment with a mesh pocket inside the top flap. It's on the smaller end of carry-ons featured, with room for a weekend's worth of clothes and one pair of shoes, so it's best suited to light packers. It's also super easy to roll, even with just the two wheels, and easy to pick up thanks to the soft but sturdy handles.

Pros:  Durable fabric, easy to store at home Cons: Only one main compartment for clothes; on the smaller side

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

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The Best Pull Up Suitcase Review for Travellers

This is the Pull Up Suitcase review you’ve all been waiting for.

Imagine this: You’re walking through the airport, about to check in your luggage and you realize you’ve packed your headphones in the suitcase. The prospect of sitting on a 6 hour flight without anything to watch or listen to is mortifying. So how do you find things quickly and efficiently? You don’t. You need to lie your suitcase on the floor and ruin your perfectly folded clothes in order to get whatever you need.

Let’s rewind this scenario a bit, and picture how much easier your life would be if your suitcase popped up and you could grab your items from the shelf you put them on. This is where the Pull Up Suitcase comes into play (use the code Krista100 for a huge €100 off any suitcase).

As someone who is constantly travelling, I often find it very difficult to find a piece of luggage that will suit all of my needs. In recent years I’ve actually decided to forgo suitcases altogether and opt for backpacks as they’re usually more convenient. The problems I’ve been having recently with backpack is that my electronics aren’t protected all that well, my clothes end up in a mess, and I can’t find things that I need without rummaging through my entire bag.

On a recent trip to Spain I had planned to visit a lot of destinations in Andalusia , which of course meant packing and unpacking my backpack constantly. While trying to research some better luggage options online, I was amazed to come across the Pull Up Suitcase because of its portable wardrobe design. The Pull Up Suitcase is very handy and you can even take it on road trips if you have the space.

Here’s my Pull Up Suitcase review including a few reasons why I would recommend ditching your average luggage and investing in the Pull Up Suitcase. Whether you’re an international traveller or like to keep things local, this suitcase will seriously up your travel game and make your life easier as well.

Built-in shelves

The first things to look at in this Pull Up Suitcase review are the built-in shelves. The suitcase pulls up into 6 shelves which means you can easily divide your clothes and whatever else you’re packing into sections. This allows you to pick out an outfit for the day and put everything back in its proper place later. It’s like having your own personal closet with you while you travel – and who doesn’t want that?

I never use hotel storage so this suitcase is ideal for me and keeps my room nice and tidy. And when it’s not in use it closes to the height of a normal suitcase. You can still access the contents inside using the front flap when it’s closed. Its slim design also means that it takes up minimal space, so say goodbye to lying your suitcase on the floor or the bed to get the contents out.

Packing cubes

The Pull Up Suitcase isn’t just a suitcase that turns into a closet. It also comes with a series of packing cubes – as if this suitcase wasn’t making your life easier already. I was very surprised at how much each one held, and how easy it was to pull them off of the shelf and get what I was looking for. As a bonus nothing moves around inside of them when you’re on the go.

The suitcase also comes with a toiletry bag that you can hang up in your bathroom without ever having to physically take all your toiletries out, as well as a garment bag if you’re travelling with suits or dresses. This is the best organized luggage I’ve ever come across, and I doubt you’ll find a better one either.

Condenses and protects items inside

Another key point to make in this Pull Up Suitcase review is how protective the suitcase is of the items inside of it. The Pull Up Suitcase is incredibly sturdy with a hard-shell top, so you can rest assured your items won’t arrive damaged. When the suitcase is condensed everything inside is very well protected and stays in its place. It also comes with a built in locking system for added security which is ideal if you’re planning on taking it on the plane.

Doubles as a table

The hard-shell top is perfectly flat and wide enough to fit a laptop on or a notebook for writing. So not only do you have a portable wardrobe with you, you also get a desk. I’ve used this feature of the Pull Up Suitcase several times when I’ve had nowhere to balance my laptop on. This table feature is also good for balancing food and drinks while you’re on the go or are waiting in the airport.

Laptop compartment

I don’t know anyone who packs their laptop in their checked-in luggage. However, the Pull Up Suitcase has a handy laptop compartment at the back of the suitcase where you can put your laptop while you’re walking so you don’t have to carry it. It’s very well padded and I use it to hold my laptop while I’m wheeling the case around or driving between destinations instead of putting it in my backpack. This compartment also has space for pens and a notebook.

Easy to wheel

To finish this Pull Up Suitcase review, I thought it would be a good idea to point out how easy it is to wheel. The suitcase can fit a lot in it so naturally it’s not going to be the lightest suitcase ever if you have to lift it. Luckily, the suitcase is equipped with the best wheels I’ve ever come across on a suitcase, and regardless of how heavy the case really is, it feels like you’re pushing an empty one.

I always have terrible luck with one wheel getting stuck or pulling the suitcase in another direction, and I’m sure a lot of you can relate to that. These four wheels rotate very smoothly, so when you’re in a rush and constantly changing the direction you’re going in, this suitcase will always stay at your side. If you prefer using only two wheels, it works perfectly for that too.

The Pull Up Suitcase is a unique suitcase with its packing shelves, easy maneuverability, and ease of accessibility making it a one-of-a-kind piece of luggage. Hopefully this Pull Up Suitcase review has got you considering making this investment and improving your travel game. These are just some of the many incredible features that the Pull Up Suitcase has and you can read about more of them on their official website.

If you have any questions about my Pull Up Suitcase review, please feel free to send me an email or get in touch with me through Instagram where you can also keep up with my latest travels.

Don’t forget to check out my sustainable gift guide for travel lovers for some great products and discounts!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission from the discount codes used or when a link/ad is clicked. All purchases made will come at no extra cost to you, and I only include products and services that I would personally recommend.

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The Best Carry-On Luggage

By Kit Dillon

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

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

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

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

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

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

Everything we recommend

Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner

The best soft-sided carry-on.

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

Buying Options

Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard

A bit more capacity and extra wheel durability.

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

Away The Carry-On

The best hard-sided carry-on.

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

Away The Bigger Carry-On

Slightly more room, but you might get checked.

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

Budget pick

Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Lightweight and appealingly inexpensive.

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

Upgrade pick

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

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

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

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

More room, bigger wheels, less maneuverability.

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

Carl Friedrik The Carry-On

A more luxe hard-sided carry-on.

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

Yeti Crossroads 22″/35L Wheeled Luggage

Best 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.

Free Public Lands membership required, single-use discount reflects in cart

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, top pick for the best carry-on luggage: travelpro platinum elite, top 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, best for tough conditions: yeti crossroads 35l wheeled luggage, other carry-on luggage worth considering, 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 top 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.

We’re also going to look at the very “millennial core” carry-on from Dagne Dover . It’s pretty expensive for what it appears to be, but the brand’s presence online and general reputation for other high-quality products warrants a look.

The ever-popular AER, a backpack company responsible for picks in several of our guides, has broken into the luggage game with its own hard-sided carry-on . We’ve generally found AER gear to be well made and well priced, especially for the quality, so we’ll be testing this bag.

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

Away The Softside Carry-On : Away’s first attempt at a soft-sided suitcase has the same high-end hardware of its hardsided case: great wheels, handle, and YKK zippers. But it misses the mark in almost every other way. The mistake, I think, is Away’s attempt to compel a soft-sided bag to fit into the company’s trademark form. Using this bag is simply uncomfortable. Its handles are too tight to grab easily. It feels surprisingly heavy. And the framing around the bag’s lid seems to fight you every step of the way. It’s a decent first version, but we think if you really want a soft-sided bag from Away, wait for the inevitable later iterations.

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.

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 .

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The 9 Very Best Pieces of Rolling Luggage

“it has survived being dragged across sand, dirt, and cobblestones.”.

In this article

Best rolling luggage overall.

• Best less expensive
• Best for frequent fliers
• Best aluminum
• Best for overpackers
• Best soft-side

Whether I’m running frantically toward the gate or strolling through security at a more leisurely pace, my trusty spinner suitcase makes travel so much easier. It’s helpful for keeping me organized once I arrive at my destination, too. Unlike most backpacks or duffels, the best rolling luggage has storage compartments, sturdy handles, and plenty of space. There’s something so pleasing about packing your items neatly before a trip, especially if your suit case has built-in compression storage.

To find rolling luggage for every kind of traveler, fellow Strategist travel writer Rachael Griffiths and I tested a dozen or so different pieces, from stretchy nylon cases with warranties that last a lifetime to bash-resistant plastic luggage. We tended to prefer hard-side cases over a soft-side, and especially those with the aforementioned compression dividers, which allow for a bit of overpacking. While some pieces may cost more than others, we’ve also learned that if you’re not fussy about the type of plastics used (ABS costs less than polycarbonate but can withstand some real rattling in transit), there are bargains to be found. While you’re here, you may want to check out my guides to the best  Dopp kits  and the best  refillable toiletry bottles . And here’s an explainer on what counts as a personal item .

Update on August 30, 2024:  Updated prices and checked stock for all products.

What we’re looking for

Hard-shell vs. soft-side.

Most experts I spoke to prefer hard-shell luggage, and I agree. It’s durable and easy to clean, it protects your clothes if it rains, and it’s harder for bedbugs to penetrate if you encounter any on your trip. The hard-shells on this list are made from either ABS, an inexpensive but less durable plastic; polycarbonate, a more durable but also lightweight material; or aluminum, which is slightly heavier, but the most durable. Most on this list are polycarbonate, but there are a few soft-sided pieces too, for those who haven’t made the switch yet. While they aren’t as durable, “from a repair standpoint, we always feel that the canvas soft-sided luggage is better than the hard-side luggage because you can repair canvas,” Tony Pecorella, president and CEO of Modern Leather Goods, a repair shop in Manhattan, says. He’s an authorized repairman for many of the luggage brands below and says someone comes in with a cracked hard-shell every day and “there’s no repairing them at all.” So in addition to soft-side suitcases being fixable, they’re also overpacking-friendly because you can stuff more in them than a rigid polycarbonate case (and finesse a larger carry-on to fit in an overhead bin, too.)

Our experts continuously raved about the wheels on their favorite suitcases, describing them as smooth and sturdy. Most were talking about their four spinner wheels, which make the suitcase much easier to push along as it can glide in all directions. For comfort and ease of use, four wheels is definitely the way to go and is our recommendation, but again, Pecorella says it’s not the best choice from a repair standpoint. “It is always stronger to have the case that has the two wheels on it,” he says. “Those wheels are encased, so the only thing that can really happen on those wheels is that they wear out eventually like tires on your car.” With the four spinners — which Pecorella fully admits to using personally — he says because they aren’t encased and just are attached to the bottom of the suitcase, you run the risk of them being banged off. “If you’re rolling off a curb or if you hit the escalator too hard, it’ll just snap the wheel right off,” he says. “That’s one of the biggest repairs we do here all day.” However, a good warranty should cover this (more on that below.)

Almost none of the suitcases on this list go the easy-repair route of being soft-side and having two wheels, and that’s because most have pretty good warranties. The biggest phrase you want to avoid is “limited to manufacturer’s defects,” which Pecorella says means they basically cover nothing and will attribute damage to wear and tear, or say it’s your fault or the airline’s fault. “Lifetime warranty” is ideal.

If you’ve checked an overweight bag before, you’ll know how much those extra charges can sting. Lightweight suitcases are ideal for overpackers — including myself — so I’ve included each case’s weight when empty.

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: From 7.4 pounds  

If you’re after a relatively affordable suitcase that doesn’t have to be babied on cobbled streets and will survive being dragged up several flights of stairs, I’m not sure you can do much better than Away. The brand’s sturdy spinner wheels can truly take a battering, and they’ll also glide joyfully across flat surfaces when given the opportunity. I’ve been testing the Bigger Carry-on, which has a 50-liter capacity yet still fits in most overhead bins, over the past couple of months. Griffiths, who lives in Europe (where airline luggage requirements are much stingier), tested the original, smaller size and was surprised by how much she could fit into it. All of the brand’s rolling-luggage pieces feature the same qualities essential to a modern suitcase and come highly praised by travel experts. Stephanie Be from travelbreak.net and Buena calls out the “TSA-approved lock, 360-degree wheels, tough hardware, and sleek design.” Kelly Farber , founder of KF Literary Scouting, took only the larger size on a three-week, seven-city business trip, and says, “That thing just would not quit.”

Best less expensive polycarbonate rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime | Weight: From 6.2 pounds

Quince , the five-year-old start-up that seems to make a little bit of everything, recently added rolling luggage to its growing inventory . I’ve been testing out the brand’s carry-on-size suitcase as well as its larger, checked one, both made from the same durable polycarbonate that Away uses. In terms of weight and feel, Quince’s affordable suitcases are surprisingly similar to Away’s in particular. When I nudged an Away Bigger Carry-on and Quince Carry-on across my apartment floor side by side, their wheels carried them about the same distance, and their retractable handles are almost identical in form and function. Both brands use YKK zippers and TSA-approved combination locks. Inside, the compression compartments and removable laundry bag are also essentially the same. And Quince recently introduced a limited lifetime warranty on its suitcases that offers protection against defects like broken handles and zippers — mimicking Away’s famous replacement guarantee.

Best less-expensive ABS rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: ABS hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited warranty | Weight: 7.3 pounds

This Amazon Basics case is made from the less durable plastic ABS, but it’s still one of Griffiths’s favorites. “In my experience, it’s rare to find a case that costs under $100 that can compete with more expensive brands,” she says. “As it is made from a cheaper plastic, I was surprised by how thick and sturdy the suitcase feels — it has a nice thud when you knock against the exterior.” As well as being thick, the exterior is also scratch resistant , and the case also has a well-designed handle, smoothly rolling wheels, handles for comfort, and a built-in lock. The warranty is where this bag falls slightly short, though (and may explain the cheaper price tag): it’s only a three-year limited warranty that protects against defects in materials and workmanship — which Pecorella says is the type to avoid.

Best rolling luggage for frequent fliers

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Five -year manufacturer’s guarantee | Weight: 7.1 pounds

The Rimowa Essential line of suitcases is excellent; more than ten experts we spoke with recommended the brand, but its extravagant price prevents it from taking the top spot on this list. If you do have the money to spare, it comes in 11 colors and two finishes and works like a dream. Owners especially praise the wheels. “I won’t pretend to understand all the physics behind the bearings and axles on Rimowa’s bags, but I do know they spin amazingly well through the airport,” Summer Hull, director of travel content at the Points Guy , says. Fellow travel writer Hillary Eaton also told me she had no problem lugging the case on a 48-hour journey from Vancouver to Machu Picchu by “tiny floatplane, three long-haul flights, a five-hour bus, and a two-hour train ride.” Several owners also pointed out how easy it is to get this suitcase repaired if anything goes wrong. However, while there’s a manufacturer’s guarantee of five years, it only applies if you remember to register your product when you purchase it. Otherwise, it lasts for only two.

Best rolling luggage for budget airlines

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: ABS hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: One-year limited | Weight: 6 pounds

I first learned about this teeny-tiny rolling case when researching the best personal-item-size luggage . It came recommended by Jasmine Anderson and Natasha Wilson , travel agents and co-hosts of the podcast  Travel Fly Sexy , as well as packing expert  Lauren Kelly . They all praise its snap-off spinner wheels that can slide miraculously into the cruelest of budget-airline baggage-sizers. (“Frontier lately is charging people for wheels and handles sticking out of the sizers,” says Kelly. “That means $100 extra for each leg of the trip.”) Measuring 18 by 14 by eight inches, the suitcase’s rectangular shape maximizes space and allows you to use packing cubes: “I have put a laptop and a week’s worth of clothes in the Take Off,” says Anderson. Kelly agrees that “it will give you the most packing space if your goal is a weeklong trip where you pack a personal item only.” The suitcase comes with a small bag to put its wheels in while your bag is being sized by airline staff; you can also just stash them in your pockets.

Best customizable rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 7.9 pounds

Strategist associate editor Jenna Milliner-Waddell calls July the “the Away of the Down Under.” And while the July Carry-on offers a lot of the same features as the Away, it has the added perk of a USB-C port so you can charge your iPhone or your laptop straight from the bag. July’s smallest carry-on weighs about half as much as Away’s, even though they both have similar liter capacities, and you can personalize it. This particular case sets itself apart with a removable fabric front pocket, which came in handy for Christine Wang, founder of TheSkiGirl who is generally a fan of soft-side luggage. If you’re traveling for work, everything you need is easily accessible, and instead of digging through your bag to remove your laptop at TSA, you can easily just snap this pouch off instead.

Best aluminum rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Aluminum hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 10.1 pounds

Aluminum cases are as tough as they come: unlike with plastic cases, you don’t need to worry about them cracking and spilling all your belongings. They often have the added security of a clamp rather than a zip, which again is less likely to burst. This case comes from Away and has all the same specs as my favorite case overall, though it’s slightly heavier, so you may have to pack a bit lighter if you’re checking it in. Despite this, travel writer Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon says there’s plenty of space for all the essentials she’d need for a three- or four-day trip. Swede White, who works for Amazon and has to travel monthly for his job, told me the only downside to this case is that he finds it scuffs easily. Away acknowledges that this will happen, alluding to it as developing a patina over time — if you prefer a pristine case, it all boils down to personal taste.

Best rolling luggage for overpackers

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 8.36 pounds

If, like me, you can’t travel without taking your entire closet, Béis’s luggage is for you. By unzipping an internal section, the bag expands by up to three inches — meaning you can shove that extra sweater inside. More stuff means a heavier bag, but Béis’s built-in weight-limit indicator ensures you don’t teeter over the 50-pound weight restriction for many checked bags. A red mark will appear if the luggage is over, which should save you some stress and money at the check-in counter. As well as a water-resistant zipper, travel blogger HeyCiara told me she appreciates how the case also has a TSA lock, a handle with ergonomic support, and a built-in laundry and shoe bag to prevent your clothes from getting soiled.

Best soft-side rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Nylon soft-side | Wheels: Encased wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 9.6 pounds

I’ve recently been testing Travelpro’s new VersaPack+ suitcase, which is more aesthetically pleasing than some of the brand’s other durable but rather utilitarian-looking luggage pieces.   It has additional design features too: Each suitcase comes equipped with an internal compression packing cube system, two shoe bags, and a laundry bag.   There’s also a completely waterproof compartment for toiletries. I like that this suitcase is fully equipped for adventure and that you don’t need to purchase additional  packing cubes  to complete your system.   I’m also very impressed by the sturdy metal telescoping handle and smooth spinner wheels, which also happen to match the exterior fabric color. This is a nice touch that makes the suitcase look much more elevated.   Travelpro is a brand that’s used and recommended by flight crews around the world because its products last a long time and can also be easily repaired. I feel really confident that mine will last me a long, long time.

Additional reporting by Rachael Griffiths .

Some more rolling luggage we’ve written about

Our experts

•  Jasmine Anderson , co-host,  Travel Fly Sexy • Alexandra Baackes, travel blogger and founder of Wander Woman Retreats • Stephanie Be, founder of BUENA and blog Travel Break • Gabby Beckford , travel blogger • Kiana Brooks , luxury fashion buyer • Hillary Eaton , food and travel writer • Kelly Farber, founder of KF Literary Scouting • Molly Fergus, former general manager of TripSavvy • Jacqui Gifford, Travel + Leisure editor-in-chief • Nicholas Gill , writer and photographer • Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon , travel writer • Summer Hull, director of travel content at The Points Guy • Jessie Hyman , co-founder of Pruzan Running • Ciara Johnson, travel blogger HeyCiara • Brian Kelly, The Points Guy • Lauren Kelly , packing expert • Ailbhe Malone , Strategist senior editor • Tom Marchant, co-founder of luxury travel and lifestyle brand Black Tomato • Tony Pecorella, president and CEO of Modern Leather Goods • Laura Ratliff , travel writer • Robin Reetz, writer and VP of marketing at Rag & Bone • Lauren Ro, Strategist writer • Alex Sanchez , consumer marketing manager at G Adventures • Chris Schalkx, co-founder of Rice/Potato • Jane Stoller , author of Decluttering for Dummies • Courtney Vondran , travel writer • Christine Wang, founder of TheSkiGirl • Swede White, principal content strategist at Amazon Web Services •  Natasha Wilson , co-host,  Travel Fly Sexy

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Best Suitcases With Compartments Compared

We use affiliate links, and receive a small commission if you make purchases through them. Find out more here .

Packing can be challenging, especially when we are flying with a limited luggage allowance . If you are very organized, you might want to look at getting a suitcase with compartments because they make packing so much easier!

This article explores different ways you can organize your suitcase: by getting luggage with built-in shelves or drawers, getting a carry-on that comes with a laptop pocket, or even using packing cubes and compression cubes.

Different Options for “A More Organized” Suitcase

For travelers who have a little bit of difficulty packing and organizing their things, here are some suitcases that can make life easier for you.

Option 1: Suitcases With Built-in Drawers

Some suitcases come with more than meets the eye. Instead of being a simple suitcase with a compartment (or two) for you to put all your things in, there are travel suitcases with built-in drawers.

Now, you can easily separate shirts from pants and other clothing items. You have a place to put your toiletries and other things you will be packing. When you get to the hotel, you won’t have a hard time putting your things away or looking for the items you need.

Option 2: Professional Makeup Suitcases

For makeup artists, a suitcase with compartments is an absolute must-have, especially for those who travel around the world carrying their tools, brushes, and other items with them. That way, it remains organized and they know where to grab what they need when they need them.

Even if you aren’t a makeup artist, you might benefit from how a makeup suitcase keeps everything neat and in order. There’s a drawer or compartment for almost everything and you’ll be able to store the things you’ll be bringing very easily, from clothes to toiletries and other items. The only downside is that they’re usually heavier because of all the drawers and compartments.

Option 3: Carry-ons With a Front Laptop Compartment

Do you often travel for work? Some carry-on suitcases come with a front compartment that is big enough to place your laptop inside. Aside from holding a change of clothes, some toiletries, and other personal belongings that you need for your trip, these kinds of suitcases make traveling for business a lot easier.

With a carry-on that allows you to store your laptop in a front pocket, you won’t have to bring a laptop bag aside from your personal bag. You can just place your laptop into the carry-on suitcase. This allows you to easily reach out and get your laptop in case you need to send an email just before the flight departs or even to work on something during your trip.

Option 4: Organizing a Regular Suitcase With Compressible Hanging Shelves

Let’s say you recently bought a suitcase or you have one that you’ve been using for several years and is still in good condition. What else can you do so you don’t have to buy new luggage with all those fancy compartments?

Thankfully, there are other kinds of travel gear that travel brands sell, including hanging shelves. This allows you to store all your things like you would in your clothes closet. You can neatly fold pants, shirts, ties, undergarments, and the other items you will be bringing and assign each one a space or a slot.

Option 5: Organizing a Regular Suitcase With Packing Cubes

If you like the flexibility of a suitcase without specialized compartments, but still want something to help organize the things you pack, try using packing cubes.

There are different kinds that serve different purposes. Some of them are waterproof or water repellant to help protect your clean clothes. Some of them come in different sizes and different colors, so you’ll definitely be able to find something that suits your taste. You can have a bag for top and bottom wear, undergarments, toiletries, and even a bag for dirty laundry.

Suitcases With Built-in Drawer Compartments

1. solgaardd carry-on closet.

If you’re looking for a suitcase that can make both packing and unpacking easy for you, take a look at the Solgaard Carry-on Closet, which is aptly named so because of all the wonders it can do. It comes with six shelves that you pull out when you pack or unpack. On each shelf, you can neatly fold and place what you will be bringing. Pants and shorts can go on one shelf, while t-shirts can go on another.

The built-in closet that comes with the suitcase is also easily removable. If you find that you need to pack a little more extra clothes or plan to do a little shopping on your trip, you can opt to remove the closet. You can also remove the closet from your luggage when you get to the hotel and hang it from the closet or clothing rack.

Aside from these great organizational elements, the Solgaard Carry-on Closet has a lot of other wonderful features. There’s a TSA-approved lock that comes with a code so you don’t have to worry about purchasing a separate lock for your suitcase.

The body of the suitcase is made from a polycarbonate shell with a lightweight aluminum frame which makes it sturdy and durable. It is waterproof and scratch-resistant and, on top of that, its wheels are frictionless which will help you maneuver your luggage around the airport and wherever you travel with a lot of ease.

2. The Pull-up Suitcase

The Pull-up Suitcase is a great traveling companion for those who often go out of town or even out of the country for work.

Because of its flat top, it can convert into a portable desk for you to send a few emails or finish a presentation while waiting for your flight. You can easily place your laptop on top of it and get to work. It even comes with an exterior pocket where you can place documents, business cards, or even a tablet or laptop.

It comes with packing cubes that will help you organize your things before you place them into your bag. You even have a bag for toiletries and a garment bag if you’re traveling with suits or dresses.

The best thing about the Pull-up Suitcase, however, is that it pulls up into 6 shelves where you can divide your items into when you’re organizing the things you will be bringing on your trip. All you have to do is pull it up and put your items in. When you’re not using it, it folds back into the size and height of a regular suitcase.

Read Next: Best 28x22x14 Luggage for Amtrak in 2022

Professional Make-up Suitcases

3. yaheetech makeup carry-on with drawers.

Whether you’re a make-up artist or a traveler who just loves a well-organized suitcase, this might be the luggage of your dreams.

The Yaheetech Makeup Carry-on comes with drawers and trays for just about anything that you will need to bring along. It has a large drawer compartment at the bottom and another large upper compartment to place items like flat/curling irons, hair sprays, and other items of bigger sizes.

Aside from these two main compartments, you’ve also got four slide-out drawers that can hold smaller items like lipstick, nail polish, essential oils, hairpins, and some smaller makeup palettes.

The suitcase is made of top-grade ABS plastic veneer and its edges have been reinforced by aluminum and metal, making it sturdy and secure no matter where you go. The suitcase locks with metal safety lockable latches that will keep your items secure. The 360˚ swivel wheels allow you to pull your luggage along smoothly and silently.

4. Yaheetech Checked Rolling Makeup Trunk With Drawers

If you’re a makeup artist who travels often, doing makeup for weddings, events, or other special occasions, the Yaheetech Checked Rolling Makeup Trunk with Drawers might just be the solution for your travel needs.

It’s a high-load capacity that serves as the perfect storage for all the things you need to bring—hair tools , cosmetics and nail tools, makeup palettes, and more. There are retractable trays and a separated middle tray that allows you to display your items so you can easily access them.

The large upper and bottom compartments allow you to store bigger items as they don’t come with dividers. The topmost case can be detached from the main frame and a strap attached for easy carrying.

It comes with four detachable wheels that roll quietly and effortlessly and its removable pull handle is easily fastened to the makeup train case with an easy magic tape. The cases are locked with heavy-duty metal clamps to ensure that your items remain secure. Every corner of the suitcase is protected by metal and plastic so it lasts a long time.

Carry-Ons With Laptop Compartments

5. delsey paris 19-inch carry-on with laptop compartment.

Do you often travel for work and find it such a hassle to bring both a personal bag and a laptop bag in your carry-on? With Delsey Paris’ 19-Inch Carry-on, you have a suitcase that comes with a laptop compartment so you won’t be carrying too many bags during your trip.

Delsey Paris is one of those luxury brands that is known for its high quality and durability. This suitcase in particular comes with double-spinner wheels that can help you maneuver your luggage with ease. Its body is made of a lightweight and durable polycarbonate shell, something that will help put your mind at ease, as this is resilient to breaking.

What’s even better is that this luggage comes with a large front pocket with a built-in padded sleeve that can carry a laptop or other documents. That way, you don’t have to bring your laptop bag aside from your suitcase and you can easily access it anytime you need to work.

Its main compartment is also expandable so you can maximize space and easily fit in clothes and other items you need to bring on the trip. There are two fully-lined compartments and web straps to hold your items securely. It also comes with a zippered pocket where you can put more delicate items and a TSA-approved lock.

6. Coolife 20-Inch Carry-on With Laptop Compartment

Coolife is another brand with great carry-on luggage that comes with a laptop compartment. It’s made of lightweight, durable ABS+PC hardshell material . This makes the luggage durable and flexible so it absorbs the impact when under stress.

This Coolife 20-inch carry-on suitcase comes with a front compartment that can open up to 180 degrees. It gives you easy access to your laptop, tablet, documents, and other items that you need to take with you on your trip. That’s why this luggage is perfect for just about any trip, whether for business or pleasure.

Another great feature this suitcase has is its interiors. It comes with a crossed fixing band to keep your things from moving and several mesh pockets to keep smaller valuables well-organized.

The suitcase also comes with a TSA-approved lock, an adjustable 3-step telescoping handle system with an ergonomic grip. It also has wheels that allow for 360-degree rotations so you can pull or push your luggage along with no difficulty at all.

Compressable Hanging Shelves

7. stow-n-go travel organizers with built-in shelves.

If you still have luggage that works really well and don’t want to buy a new one with all those built-in drawers or pull-up shelves, you can always get a compressible hanging shelf.

This travel organizer by Stow-N-Go comes with built-in shelves that are easy to use. All you have to do is hang them up, load them with your folded clothes, shoes, accessories, and whatever else you will be bringing, then collapse them and pack them into your suitcase.

This Stow-N-Go travel organizer is a 3-tier shelf with steel hooks that you can easily hang from your closet or shower curtain rod. That makes staying at a hotel easier because you don’t have to unpack everything all at once.

It has a compression technique that reduces your wrinkles because it keeps your clothes flat in your bag. This is especially helpful if you’re going on business trips so your clothes don’t become bunched up inside your suitcase.

The best part about it is that it has a separate, zippered compartment at the bottom for dirty clothes. With that, you won’t have to worry about mixing your clean clothes with the dirty ones so you can avoid having to do extra laundry when you get back from your trip.

8. Tabitora Portable Hanging Travel Shelves

Tabitora’s Portable Hanging Travel Shelves are another great option for organizing your things before you go on a trip. Their travel shelves are made of polyester fiber, which makes them strong and durable while at the same time being light and breathable.

One of the best things about Tabitor’s travel shelves is that their body is made of water repellent and mesh material. If you accidentally splash water on your clothes, you don’t have to worry about them getting soaked. Plus, the mesh allows air to flow through so your clothes don’t retain odors and moisture.

If you’re not using your travel shelf at the moment, you can always fold it up and store it in your luggage to use on the return trip home or when you’re going to your next destination. You don’t need to worry about it taking up too much space as it is very compact.

Tabitora’s travel shelves have a large capacity and come with strong hooks so you can hang them up anywhere. They also have an adjustable buckle that can help you compress air as you place it in your luggage. The buckle also keeps your things from spilling out so your items remain secure.

At the bottom is a zippered compartment where you can place dirty laundry, shoes , or other things you want separate from the rest.

Packing Cubes

9. shacke pak 5-piece packing cube set.

The Shacke Pak Packing Cube Set comes with four packing cubes and one large laundry bag. It’s one of the more affordable options and it seems to be popular, too, especially if you look up their reviews on Amazon.

These packing cubes are made of polyester fabric that seems to be thicker than other similar packing cubes. This makes it resistant to punctures and tears. Their double stitching also helps reinforce the lid so it can hold your clothes better.

The laundry bag fabric seems to be water-resistant, or at most, water repellent. If you come from a swim and place slightly damp clothes inside, you don’t need to worry about the things around your laundry bag getting wet.

What makes this packing cube set also stand out is that it uses YKK zippers. If you haven’t heard of YKK zippers yet, they are the most durable zipper brand. They zip and unzip easily and don’t get stuck in the fabric

10. Leantravel 3-Piece Compression Cube Set

If you’re looking for a travel organizer that’s simple, durable, and stylish, check out the Leantravel 3-Piece Compression Cube Set. They are very affordable and one of the more popular options for those who have tried various compression or packing cubes.

As a compression cube, this Leantravel organizer is very effective. They are made of thick, sturdy material that doesn’t easily tear or get punctured. The zippers are made of high quality and anti-catch technology so it doesn’t snag when you open or close it.

The walls and corners of this compression cube are reinforced with wires so that it holds its form so you can pack or unpack with ease. They are also very effective in helping you organize your bag and the mesh top helps you see what you packed so you don’t need to take everything out when you are looking for a particular clothing item.

What’s best is that they are more spacious as compared to other compression cubes in the market so you will definitely be able to put a lot of items inside when you pack. And, because it’s a compression cube, all you have to do is close the second zipper for it to fit into your luggage.

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One response to “Best Suitcases With Compartments Compared”

Alyssa, your insights are always a breath of fresh air! Your point on mindful consumption really hit home for me. Has it influenced your shopping habits? Also, I’m curious, do you think fast-fashion is on its last legs? Personally, I’ve transitioned to thrifting over the past year – it’s been a rewarding journey, both for my wallet and the environment. Perhaps other readers might find value in exploring sustainable alternatives too. Just food for thought, keep up the great work! 🌎🙌🏻

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• Suitcase And Luggage
• Suitcases and Travel Luggages

7 Best Travel Luggage and Suitcases  in 2024 | Traveler’s Guide  

Our writers and editors test the best suitcases and travel luggage available. We test, research and review the best products in different categories with a focus on quality, durability and the overall value for the price.

If you need a suitcase for your next trip, you have come to the right place.

Not all travel luggage is created equal. Some have a hard-shell, four wheels, and TSA-approved locks. Others have soft-shells, 2 wheels, and vibrant exteriors. You’ll want to check all types before deciding on ‘the one’ .

The right suitcase for you will be durable, full of useful features, and fit your budget. It will also alleviate the stress of traveling and not add to it.

This guide compiles some of the best suitcases and travel luggage we found on the web. It takes into account individual elements that make a suitcase worth purchasing and goes into detail about the things you should look out for in the buying guide and FAQ sections.

Dive in to learn more about our picks for the best travel luggage and suitcases in 2024 and make a well-calculated pick.

The Top 7 Suitcases & Travel Luggage in 2024

All the suitcases and travel luggage we've tested, travelpro platinum elite softside.

Where to buy:

Where to buy travelpro platinum elite softside:.

Soft-shell luggage lovers, meet TravelPro Platinum Elite suitcase – a practical travel bag that is perfect for both short and long trips.

Constructed from the water-repellent Nylon with leather details and chrome zippers, it features a tapered expansion that offers you 2 extra inches of storage space.

The precision glide system integrated into the bag consists of cushioned touch points, self-aligning magnetic wheels and an adjustable handle.

The TSA-approved lock allows authorities to quickly unlock and lock the luggage for inspection when needed.

The premium price point is completely justified by the high-quality features and the lifetime warranty from the manufacturer that covers the costs associated with repair caused by common carriers.

• Type: Soft Shell
• Material: Nylon
• Capacity: 143.5 liters
• Dimensions: 11.25 x 18 x 25 inches
• Weight: 9.68 lbs.

Things we like:

Things we don't like:, amazonbasics hardside expandable.

Where to buy AmazonBasics Hardside Expandable:

AmazonBasics Hardside expandable carry-on luggage is hardly a big investment. At less than $70 per 26-inch piece, it offers features similar to high-end suitcases.

The interior of the bag is fully lined, and the divider on the inside helps to efficiently organize your belongings for a more comfortable trip.

The spinner comes with a telescoping handle that extends and locks into place for easy maneuvering. No matter how rough the terrain is, it is bound to handle it well.

The hard shell has a scratch-resistant finish – a great perk that helps preserve the original look of the suitcase after tumble travel conditions.

Lastly, the 4 double spinner wheels make your job of carrying a heavy load that much simpler.

• Type: Hard Shell
• Material: ABS
• Capacity: 69 liters
• Dimensions: 18.3 x 11.4 x 26.7 inches
• Weight: 9.38 lbs.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Softside

Where to buy Briggs & Riley Baseline Softside:

You’ll have a hard time finding a more spacious checked luggage than the Baseline Softside model released by Briggs & Riley. Available in 5 sizes and 3 colors, it’s a great find for everyone looking to update their traveling gear.

The 1680-Denier Ballistic Nylon gives this suitcase an edge over others because, well, it incorporates the qualities that other pieces of luggage don’t have. We’re talking about wear-, tear- and water-resistance combined with dirt-repelling properties.

The fiberglass frame adds to the mix of durability and makes the suitcase that much more lightweight, flexible, and reliable.

The patented CX expansion-compression is the star element here – it helps to increase the capacity of the travel bag by 26% while keeping the content safe and sound. Now you know why this checked luggage is so highly priced.

• Material: 1680-Denier Ballistic Nylon
• Capacity: ~90 liters
• Dimensions: 28 x 20 x 11 inches
• Weight: 11.9 lbs.

Level8cases.com

Level8 Elegance Textured Set 20” and 26”

Where to buy Level8 Elegance Textured Set 20” and 26”:

We know how stressful it is to look for that hard shell luggage that best suits your needs. We tested the Level8 Elegance Textured Luggage Set 20″ and 26″, and these two might put an end to your search.

With massive 38-liter and 88-liter capacities, these hard shell luggage from Level8 can carry your entire life. Their solid construction can also keep them safe from impacts.

Both the 20″ and 26″ Level8 Elegance Textured Luggage are also waterproof.

It sounds like a steal, right?

Let’s unpack this 2-in1 hard shell luggage set and weigh every detail.

• Material: Germany Bayer Makrolon Polycarbonate Hard Shell, Polyester Lining, Mesh Divider, YKK zippers, TSA 3-Digit Code Lock, Rubber-Padded Double-Wheel, Aluminum Alloy Telescopic Handle with Plastic Grip
• 26” Luggage Dimension: 27.6” x 16.1” x 13.2” with 88-liter capacity, weighing 10.89 lbs.
• 20” Luggage Dimension: 14.6” x 9.3” x 21.5” with 38-liter capacity, weighing 7.7 lbs.

COOLIFE Luggage 3-Piece Set

Where to buy COOLIFE Luggage 3-Piece Set:

If you’re a family of three or four planning on taking an international trip soon, the COOLIFE Luggage 3-Piece Set might just be what you need. Available in 10+ colors, you’re guaranteed to find the option that’s right for you.

We like that although the luggage is lightweight, it’s still sturdy. The impact-resistant hard shell and the 100% ABS material make it almost bulletproof.

The interior compartment has a zipped part and the division with compression straps. This allows you to organize your stuff in a way that doesn’t cause wrinkles in your clothes or dents in your accessories.

You can easily operate the telescoping handle thanks to the integrated push button. Paired with sturdy wheels that can turn in any direction, you shouldn’t have any issues using this luggage set for years.

• Material: 100% ABS
• Capacity: 16 inches: 30L (only in the family set), 20 inches: 38L, 24 inches: 60L, 28 inches: 93L
• Dimensions: 16 inches: 19" x 12.75" x 8.25"(only in the family set), 20 inches: 22.5" x 15.5" x 9.25", 24 inches: 26.5"x18.25" x 10.25", 28 inches: 30.25" x 20.75" x 11.75”
• Weight: 16 inches: 4.7lbs (only in the family set), 20 inches: 6.3lbs, 24 inches: 7.9lbs, 28 inches: 10lbs

American Tourister Fieldbrook Softside

Where to buy American Tourister Fieldbrook Softside:

American Tourister Fieldbrook luggage bundle is a real-time bargain for those who are on a budget and aren’t willing to splurge on a 3- or 4-piece set. This 600-Denier Polyester deal features a lightweight yet durable construction that enables effortless mobility.

The smooth wheels allow you to roll luggage without any obstacles, while the push-button locking handle makes the transportation process that much easier.

The set consists of a 25-inch upright bag, a 21-inch upright carry-on, a wheeled duffel , and a boarding bag. This combo should suffice lengthy family trips that come with multiple stuff requirements.

Backed by the 10-year limited warranty, you are guaranteed to get good use out of your luggage bundle.

• Material: 600-Denier Polyester
• Quantity: 4
• Dimensions: 26 x 16.5 x 8 inches (checked bag)
• Weight: 16.71 lbs.

Samsonite Upright Wheeled Carry-On

Where to buy Samsonite Upright Wheeled Carry-On:

Meet your ultimate business trip companion designed by the travelers’ favorite brand Samsonite, upright carry-on luggage. This travel bag not only fits under the majority of the airplane seats but is also easily accessible from each of its four sides.

It combines Nylon and Polyester that give it strength and durability and inline skate wheels that help minimize frictional resistance.

The ergonomic handle with a push-button can be retracted and secured in place for easy maneuverability. The wetpak zippered compartment allows you to separate your damp or dirty clothes from the clean ones – an often overlooked feature that proves times and again to be useful.

With the smart sleeve back, you won’t have any issues placing the bag over the handle of your checked suitcase.

• Material: Nylon, Polyester
• Capacity: ~38 liters
• Dimensions: 12.5 x 9 x 14 inches
• Weight: 5.07 lbs.

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Spinner

Where to buy Rockland Melbourne Hardside Spinner:

Bundles and sets are known for providing the best value, and Rockland Melbourne hardside luggage set is the proof. Built from the sturdy ABS, it is super lightweight and durable.

The right spinner wheels help the luggage rotate 360-degrees on every terrain, while the bulletproof exterior protects your essentials from getting damaged during traveling. The integrated telescopic handle can be conveniently stowed away when not in use and extended when needed to maneuver the suitcase.

The 2 extra inches in depth allow you to maximize the number of things you can bring on board with you.

If you are lucky enough to get your hands on this travel luggage set when it’s on sale, consider it the deal of all deals.

• Dimensions: 28 x 17 x 12 inches (the biggest)
• Weight: 10 lbs. (the biggest)

Related Reviews

Read full review

Best Suitcases: BUYING GUIDE

For the majority of people, a suitcase is a one- or a two-time purchase that is meant to last a lifetime. Because of that, the stakes are high.

To make a good investment and not have to replace a travel luggage every couple of years, you have to choose it wisely. Scroll through the next focal points we consider to be the most important when deciding which suitcase or travel luggage to buy.

Type of Travel Luggage

The number one decision every traveler makes is whether they want to buy a hard-side or a soft-side travel luggage. While it seems like an easy choice to make, there are a few things to keep in mind about them both.

Hard Shell Travel Luggage

Travel Luggage with a hard shell has gradually become everyone’s favorite for a good reason – it’s the most protective suitcase of all. As a result, you can expect it to last you a lot longer (if it doesn’t easily get scuffed up) as the chances of theft are extremely low. It’s also super lightweight and often waterproof.

Soft Shell Travel Luggage

Travel Luggage with a soft shell, on the other hand, is an oldie but goldie. Having been around the longest, it’s a reliable piece of baggage that allows you to fit a lot more stuff than the hard-sided suitcase. It might not look as chic and stylish as a hard shell suitcase, but it’s trusted by many generations because of the ease of maneuverability and a multitude of exterior pockets.

Suitcase Wheels

The second decision you’ll have to make is the number of many wheels you want to roll your suitcase on – two or four. While the most sought-after luggage is the one with four wheels, there are plenty of advantages to suitcases with two wheels too.

Surely, the four wheels with 360-degree rotation are convenient – with them, you can push and pull your luggage in any direction. They are also easier to maneuver in tight spaces and tend to not exhaust you as much.

That being said, four-wheeled suitcases are prone to rolling away from you in the event of a minor ground incline. Besides, they are easier to break off because of their isolated-from-the-body-of-the-luggage construction.

Suitcases with two wheels don’t have the same issues – they are well equipped for every kind of terrain. Apart from that, they are easy to pull behind without making you worry about them getting stuck on bumpy sidewalks.

The biggest downside to the two-wheeled luggage, however, is that they can be unsteady and heavy to roll. This can be a big deal-breaker for those traveling with more than just one suitcase.

Suitcase Material

Both hard shell and soft shell suitcases are made to last, which is translated through the quality of the material they’re built from. The only difference you’ll notice is the type of material used for the making of each of them.

Hard-sided travel luggage are made from either Aluminum, Polycarbonate, Polypropylene, or ABS. These materials ensure the sturdiness of the luggage that plays a huge role in preventing them from getting scratches and dents.

In contrast, soft-sides suitcases are constructed from Polyester, Cordura Nylon, or Ballistic Nylon, all of which are durable enough to withstand harsh handling. To find out whether the suitcase you have your eyes on is made from a good-quality fabric, check the Denier number next to the material. The higher it is, the more durable.

Travel Luggage Dimensions

The size of your suitcase will largely depend on the type of trips you are planning to use it for. Normally, carry-on luggage will do for a short trip that doesn’t last more than a week, whereas checked luggage is best suited for longer trips that require you to bring many changes of clothes, shoes, and other knick-knacks.

Keep in mind that carry-on suitcases are the easiest to carry – both during your trips and in airports. In addition, you won’t have to worry about the baggage restrictions imposed by airlines as you are more than likely to meet them.

Learn more about Carry-on Luggage Size restrictions for these US Airlines.

Suitcase Details

All things being equal, there are a couple of more points to consider when deciding what luggage to pick. We’re talking handles, zips, and locks – the details that can’t be overlooked.

While none of them is more important than the other, you ought to pay particularly close attention to the handles of the suitcase. Handles that are both telescopic and ergonomic are a must – they ensure your hands don’t get tired too quickly and prevent them from developing sores.

Another detail to evaluate is the availability of TSA-friendly zips and lockers. It’s a safer route to choose a suitcase with zips and lockers that won’t raise any suspicion from TSA officials when your luggage is being scanned. Let’s face it – no one wants to have their suitcase opened when they are already in a hurry to that closing gate.

If you already started planning your travels you can let these Travel Quotes  inspire your trip.

If you already have a suitcase or a travel luggage set or you just bought one, leave a comment in the comment section below and share your experience with it.

Frequently asked questions

Allegedly, the best travel luggage is the one that combines the highest-quality materials and hi-tech features. Besides, it also has to be sturdy enough to withstand harsh exploitation during loading and unloading.

While there are countless suitcases of this kind on the market, not all of them are equally good. Here are the ones that stand out from the crowd:

• Best Hard-Shell: AmazonBasics Hardside Expandable Carry-On Luggage
• Spacious Checked Luggage: Briggs & Riley Baseline Softside
• Very Solid and Durable: Level8 Elegance Textured Set 20” and 26”
• Best 3-Piece Set: COOLIFE Luggage 3-Piece Set
• Best Large Checked: American Tourister Fieldbrook Softside
• Best Soft-Shell: TravelPro Platinum Elite Softside
• Best Underseater: Samsonite Upright Wheeled Carry-On
• Best Rolling Duffel: Travelers Club Xpedition
• Customers’ Favorite: Kenneth Cole Reaction Travel Suitcase

Read full reviews of each travel luggage on DIVEIN.COM by clicking the links above.

Contrary to the belief of some newbie travelers, the question of whether you should opt for hard shell or soft shell luggage has nothing to do with airlines. But it does have everything to do with your personal preferences.

For the ultimate flexibility and the ease of squeezing a suitcase into tight spaces, soft-sided luggage is your best bet. For the highest level of protection and the weightless ease of transporting the items from A to B, hard-sided luggage is the best way to go.

Wheels tend to be an overlooked feature when researching travel luggage. This is a mistake, as they can make or break your trip depending on their quality and durability.

To not regret your choice of luggage, take a look at these suitcases with heavy-duty wheels that won’t break at the sign of a bumpy terrain:

• SwissGear Sion Carry-On Luggage
• Travelers Club Xpedition Rolling Duffel Suitcase
• American Tourister Fieldbrook Softside Luggage Set
• TravelPro Platinum Softside Checked Suitcase
• Briggs & Riley Baseline Softside Large Checked Luggage

Read full reviews of each suitcase on DIVEIN.COM by clicking the links above.

Whether you bring a  duffel bag , a  travel backpack , or a carry-on suitcase with you on board, it’s important to take into consideration the airline’s standards regarding the permitted size of the luggage.

For the majority of airlines, the standard size of a travel bag when traveling internationally is around 27 x 21 x 12 inches with a 50-pound weight limit.

To get more accurate dimensions, consult with the airline you’re planning on traveling with.

Just like with most of the high-end items, an expensive suitcase is considered to be an investment – particularly, in your future travel experiences.

It is a guarantee that even if your flight gets canceled, the hotel you booked turns out to be a disaster, and the weather forecast isn’t promising, you at least can rely on your four- or two-wheeled travel buddy.

This doesn’t mean, however, that more affordable suitcases are a bad investment (there are numerous cheap-ish travel bags that can compete with high-priced suitcases) – it’s simply a better assurance in your travel gear’s quality and durability.

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Gallery of suitcases and travel luggages review.

Various Suitcases and Travel Luggages at the airport

Various suitcases picked up at the baggage carousel

Suitcases being checked in at the ticket counter

A variety of travel suitcases and luggages

Various suitcases stacked on a baggage cart ready for check in

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• How to Choose a Kayak – A Beginner’s Guide
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• All Liveaboards
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• The Best Starboard Paddle Boards: A Brand Guide
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• Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort
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• Best Diving in the Caribbean
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• All Liveaboards in Thailand
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Travel in Style With a Ride-On Suitcase for Kids

Family vacations are awesome—but actually getting to your destination? Not so much. Traversing an airport is stressful enough as it is, but with young children in tow it can feel chaotic. Then add a whole pile of luggage (not to mention a travel stroller and car seat ) into the mix, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for a toddler tantrum . Breaking out in a cold sweat at the thought of it? Don’t worry! Luggage brands have recognized that parents have their hands full and have come up with a genius solution: Ride-on suitcases.

Ride-on luggage is a triple threat that functions as a kid-sized suitcase , a ride-on vehicle and a convenient place to sit while your family waits in line at check-in or passport control. Your little one will love to scoot along the airport terminal, and many options feature a long handle or strap so you can pull or push them along once they start to feel tired. Ride-on suitcases for kids come in a range of cute, colorful designs and some innovative models even double as a cozy in-flight bed for your little one. Talk about clever design! Ready to roll? Check out our picks of the best ride-on suitcases for toddlers and kids below.

Things to Consider When Buying a Ride-On Suitcase

Before you rush out and buy ride-on luggage for your kids, take a moment to consider the key considerations listed below.

• Age appropriate: Most ride-on luggage is suitable for ages 2 and up. With that said, always read the brand’s age and weight guidelines to make sure the ride-on suitcase is suitable for your child.
• Size: When determining what size suitcase you need, pay attention to the dimensions and weight capacity. The dimensions, typically listed in inches, will tell you how large the suitcase is; whereas the capacity, usually listed in liters, refers to how much the suitcase can hold inside. If you plan to bring the bag onto the plane, make sure the suitcase conforms to the airline’s carry-on policy.
• Push/pull options: Most, but not all, ride-on suitcases let kids sit down and push themselves along using their feet. But traveling can be tiring, so it’s a good idea to choose something with a strap or long handle so that the grown-ups can pull or push kids along when they need a break.

Best Ride-on Suitcases for Kids

A ride-on suitcase lets your child climb aboard and scoot along with their feet or be pulled by a parent using a strap or handle. This is a wonderful option for kids that tire easily or tend to get bored and frustrated while traveling. Plus, giving your child their own luggage means they can pack their favorite toys, clothes and snacks freeing up space in your check-in bags. Keep reading to discover our top picks for ride-on suitcase designs available to buy right now.

Best ride-on suitcase for toddlers

• Premium aluminum design
• Shock-absorbing swivel wheels
• Functions as a ride-on suitcase, footrest and in-flight bed
• High price point
• Ride-on feature is for children over the age of 3

Jet off in style with the Stokke Bedbox. This premium piece of ride-on luggage has swivel wheels at the front for easy steering, a strap parents can use to pull their kids along and a ledge that prevents little feet from dragging on the ground. It fits neatly inside an overhead bin and the minimalist design can be jazzed up with the included sticker sheets. The best part? This ride-on suitcase transforms into a leg rest or in-flight bed to keep kids comfy when you're at cruising altitude. Genius!

Age range: 2 to 7 years | Dimensions: 15″ (L) x 7.5″ (W) x 19″ (H) | Capacity: 20 L | Product weight: 7.7 lbs

Best ride-on suitcase for kids

• Lightweight yet durable
• Cabin-size suitcase
• Comes with a five-year warranty
• No foot rest
• Non-swivel wheels only roll forwards

The Trunki ride-on suitcase is a popular choice for jet-setting parents in the know. Why? It’s the ideal companion for novice travelers! Designed from a lightweight yet durable plastic, it can handle the weight of a toddler along with the usual wear-and-tear that comes with travel. It has four wheels and a comfy saddle seat, so kids can perch on top and scoot along. Once they're all tuckered out, parents can tow them along using the multifunction strap that can also be worn over the shoulder. The bag even fits neatly inside an overhead bin, making it the perfect carry-on case for tots. Choose from a variety of playful designs including a red firetruck or sparkly unicorn .

Age range: 3 years + | Dimensions: 8″ (L) x 12″ (W) x 17.5″ (H) | Capacity: 18 L | Product weight: 3.53 lbs.

Best interactive ride-on suitcase

• Light-up eyes and sounds
• Affordable price point
• Lightweight enough for kids to pull themselves
• AAA batteries required
• It’s best for short trips or overnight stays

Parents and kids alike love this kitty-themed suitcase. Practical yet cute, this lightweight case has space for your child’s travel essentials, opens at the side and can be locked with the attached “fish” key. It also has a detachable strap, so parents or toddlers can pull it along. All that for under $30? Talk about a purr-fect ride-on suitcase for kids!

Age range: 2 years + | Dimensions: 8.5″ (L) x 18.8″ (W) x 13.1″ (H) | Capacity: Holds up to 110 lbs. | Product weight: 4.1 lbs.

Best heavy-duty ride-on suitcase

• 360-degree swivel wheels
• Seat belt, fold-out foot rests and grab handles
• Large capacity provides plenty of space inside
• Heavier than other options on the market

Next up is a ride-on suitcase packed full of practical features: Younglingz Lil Flyer. It has four smooth rolling wheels that swivel 360 degrees and a telescopic handle for easy maneuverability. A built-in seat belt, fold-out foot rests, grab handles at the side and a padded seat ensure your little one can roll along in comfort and style. And with a 47-liter capacity, you can pack everything your child needs for an extended trip. According to the manufacturer, the Lil Flyer flies through TSA in lieu of a travel stroller—meaning no baggage fees—but always check your individual airlines policy just in case.

Age range: 2 years + | Dimensions: 20″ (L) x 9″ (W) x 18″ (H) | Capacity: 47 L | Product weight: 10 lbs.

Best ride-on suitcase for the whole family

• 360 degree swivel wheels
• Comes with a child seat belt
• Can accommodate kids and adults up to 220 pounds
• Kids can’t propel themselves along

This slick bag has two modes: a ride-on suitcase for kids and a regular suitcase for adults complete with a portable seat. The hard-shell case is stylish and durable, with four swivel wheels and a retractable handle. In ride-on mode simply flip up the built-in seat and attach the child seat belt to create a comfortable perch for your kiddo. If you’re traveling solo, use the seat without the belt to take a well earned rest while you line up at security or wait at the gate.

Age range: 2 years + | Dimensions: 21″ (L) x 15″ (W) x 11.5″ (H) | Capacity: 47 L | Product weight: 9.4 lbs.

Best adaptable ride-on travel seat

• Affordable option
• Built-in seat belt for safety
• Folds flat for easy storage
• Simple design lacks the “fun factor”
• Parents have to pull the combined weight of their suitcase and child

Turn any suitcase into a piece of ride-on luggage with the Lugabug Travel Seat. This clever device attaches to a roller suitcase and is ready to roll in three easy steps: Simply secure the seat using the adjustable straps, hold the handle while your child sits down then tilt it back and start your journey. The lightweight seat folds flat when not in use on the plane or at home, making it a practical option to boot.

Age range: 2 years + | Dimensions: 13″ (L) x 1.5″ (W) x 13.5″ (H) | Capacity: Hold up to 50 lbs. | Product weight: 1.19 lbs.

How We Chose the Best Ride-On Luggage for Kids

We get it—traveling with a little one in tow requires a lot of gear, and it can be hard to find the best fit for your family. To streamline your decision-making process, our goal is to do the bulk of the research for you, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling through online retailers. We do this by considering a list of criteria when sourcing products, including ease of use, durability, size, weight, value and style. This way you can count on getting the best bang for your buck, while also having a dependable ride-on suitcase that meets your child’s needs.

To decide which ride-on suitcases are the best options on the market, we leverage our familiarity with leading brands to make sure items are from reliable manufacturers. We read user reviews to get the low-down on how these products work for families, and typically don’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating.

Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here .

Plus, more from The Bump:

Best Toddler Suitcases

Best Toddler Backpacks for Daycare, Preschool and Beyond

Best Baby Travel Gear for Your Next Family Trip

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Best 4 travel pull-up bars for calisthenics.

Difference Travel Pull-Up Bar and Portable Pull-Up Bar

When do you need a travel pull-up bar, best 4 travel pull-up bars, how can i do pull-ups while travelling , alternatives to a travel pull-up bar, frequently asked questions about travel pull-up bars.

You’re on the road or just gotten off the plane at your temporary destination. Of course, you’ve brought your trusty Travel Pull-Up Bar with you so you can do your Calisthenics exercise. Whether business or pleasure, your travels can put a serious dent into your workout routine. Having a Travel Pull-Up Bar with you allows you to maintain some if not all of your workout routine while you’re not at home. So, what differentiates a Travel Pull-Up Bar from a normal portable Pull-Up Bar? What can you do with a Travel Pull-Up Bar? Are they just as capable as normal portable Pull-Up Bars? We’ll answer all these questions and more and, of course, we’ll give you our top pick of best Travel Pull-Up Bars for all your journeyings and forays into the world.

Why can’t you just buy a portable Pull-Up Bar and take that with you? If you paid for shipping it, you probably could. That’s the point we’re trying to make. Portable does not mean easily moveable but only that it is moveable. Portable Pull-Up Bars are different in that they’re not semi-permanently fixed to a wall or need to have their screws removed to be moved in chunks. You can take your portable Pull-Up Bar with you in a car, or under your arm and go outside. They’re great if you need to move around locally a lot or if you want to periodically do your Calisthenics outside.

Compared to Travel Pull-Up Bars, however, they are still very bulky and heavy. You can’t fit them inside your bag or suitcase along with your clothes and toiletries. The real difference then boils down to size and weight. You could say that all Travel Pull-Up Bars are portable Pull-Up Bars but not all portable Pull-Up Bars are Travel Pull-Up Bars.

When you’re travelling. 

Alright, we understand you want some more context. If you’re the disciplined type you can probably skip a week and pick right back up where you left. This is certainly the case if your routine isn’t that intensive. If you’re away for three days and you only workout twice a week, you could make it fit. Maybe change your workout day for that one time. You don’t need to invest in a Travel Pull-Up Bar if you don’t want too but it’s still a nice thing to have.

It becomes different when you’re away for longer or very frequently. The rule should be discipline and consistency. That becomes difficult to maintain if you’re going away for a month or if your job entails being called away from home for days on end at irregular intervals. There’s no planning a consistent workout routine around that. You’ll have to bring your Calisthenics with you on your travels.

This is compounded with an extensive workout routine. If your routine demands that you work out 4 days a week, then you can see how difficult that translates with long holidays or frequent traveling. You’ll need a Travel Pull-Up Bar to take with you.

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Our criteria for the best Travel Pull-Up Bars are fairly simple. You need to be able to bring them with you within the confines of 1 bag. Major bonus points if it fits on top of a stack of clothes. For the rest, the Travel Pull-Up Bar needs to be easy to install and safely mounted and not slip off or come loose. Last but not least, you need to be able to comfortably do some actual Calisthenics. This shortens the list with viable Travel Pull-Up Bars considerably as most are too big, too heavy, not safe enough or too restrictive in what you can do with them. We’ve boiled down the list to the following 4 best Travel Pull-Up Bars.

#1 Duonamic Eleviia

Our absolute favorites when we’re away from home are the Duonamic Eleviia . This innovative take on a Travel Pull-Up Bar has been designed down the minutia to be light-weight, portable and just as versatile as a full-length Pull-Up Bar. They take all but 5 seconds to set up and nearly any doorframe in the world will work. The proprietary clamp design means that the more weight you hand from them, the tighter they clamp down around the molding (the trim around the doorframe). They are safe by design.

Its dimensions are 12 x 10 x 4¾, so they should fit in any normal travel bag or suitcase. Maybe leave that floral shirt that only you like at home and the Duonamic Eleviia fits right in. It weighs just 3.5lbs. You don’t need to worry about that hotel door either. The soft, thermoplastic design is safe for use on any doorframe without scratching the pain or damaging the woodwork.

The handles feel very comfortable, better even than most foam-covered Pull-Up Bars. They are suspended by cords so your center of gravity will lean towards the center of the doorway. At first this may be a bit closer to the handles than you’re used too but it is very manageable. All regular Pull-Up Bar exercises like pull-ups and chin-ups, front levers and L-sits and even the German hang are possible. 

You can upgrade the Duonamic Eleviia with Gymnastic Rings for an even more comprehensive Calisthenics exercise while travelling. We also liked the Powrhold grips which simultaneously train your grip strength. Included in the package is a handy travel bag, to keep your Duonamic Eleviia safe and compact.

#2 JayFlex Fitness Ryze-Ups

With a weight of 4.6 pounds and the quickest setup of almost any doorframe we’ve seen yet, the JayFlex Ryze-Ups are a serious contender for the number one spot. The Ryze-Ups need a door molding between 2 and 6 inches to work, which should accommodate more than 90% of the world’s doors. They’re a great companion to have as a Travel Pull-Up Bar. Slap them on the doorframe within 5 seconds if you’re quick and you’re good to go. They are nearly perfectly flat when folded so they should fit right on top of your clothes. 

The handles are quite a stroke of genius. They are set in a circular rim and you can rotate them to any desired position. This gives you an unlimited number of options when it comes to gripping them, straight, diagonal or a hammer grip. Moving the handles themselves closer together or farther apart and with this circular rim means the JayFlex Ryze-Ups all but replace the need for a regular Pull-Up Bar.

The handles are rubberized and ergonomically shaped. They feel comfortable to hold and you should have no problems doing all your Pull-Up Bar exercises while you’re travelling.

#3 Jayflex CrossGrips

A bit heavier than the Ryze-Ups, the Jayflex CrossGrips are probably the closest you’ll get to a traditional  Door Mounted Pull-Up Bar  without hauling an actual full-sized Pull-Up Bar with you. The CrossGrips are a set of what you could call miniature Pull-Up Bars working together to provide room for both of your hands. 

Made of stainless steel with a powder-coated steel casing, the CrossGrips are rugged, durable and strong. The clamps are spring loaded and don’t need a lot of adjustment. This takes a little longer than the clamp design of the Eleviia but not by a whole lot. You have the advantage of an all-steel construction.

With both a parallel and a perpendicular grip on each CrossGrip, you’re given all the usual options you have with a regular Door Mounted Pull-Up Bar. The grips themselves are nice to hold and right in the middle between coarse and finely coated. In its deployed configuration, the soft rubber feet can also be placed on the ground. You’re not only bringing your Travel Pull-Up Bar but also your travel  Parallettes  with the CrossGrips. 

#4 Pullup & Dip Mobile Pull-Up Bar & Bag

When we said the viable options were limited, we weren’t kidding. The Pullup & Dip Mobile Pull-Up Bar is a portable Pull-Up Bar which can be disassembled into small enough pieces to take with you. The caveat here is that you either prepare a separate bag or buy the fitting Pullup & Dip Sports Backpack. Though not nearly as small or light as the handles we discussed previously, the Mobile Pull-Up Bar is the most portable of the larger portable Pull-Up Bars out there. All you need is a good tree and you’re good to go.

Quality and the fit and finish on all Pullup & Dip products are phenomenal. With a full-length Pull-Up Bar, you’re no longer limited to the width of a doorframe either. The long center bar and curved ends give you a range of options to better exercise your back and shoulders as well as your biceps and triceps. This is a level of functionality the most compact Travel Pull-Up Bars simply can’t offer.

We doubt the Hotel will appreciate you drilling holes into their walls, so you’ll have to find a big, sturdy tree instead. 

It can be quite a challenge to maintain your workout routine while travelling. For a short time away from home it might not be a problem to skip a session or plan it on a different day. Maintaining discipline though is a problem for many (God knows it is for us) so even if you can’t do your full workout, it’s a nice feeling to at least be doing something. With the aid of a Travel Pull-Up Bar, you can do your Pull-Up exercises virtually anywhere you are. The most common thread is that you need a doorframe onto which you mount the Travel Pull-Up Bar.

Another option is to  find a Calisthenics Park  close to where you will be staying or to make use of the hotel’s amenities should those be available. The wise person plans this ahead.

Here are some alternatives if you forgot to bring your Travel Pull-Up Bar or to Pull-Up Bars in general.

Use a Door and a Towel

Don’t overthink this one. Simply open a door, grab the top side and pull yourself up. You can drape a towel over the top of the door to provide some comfort to your hands. This isn’t ideal by any stretch of the imagination. Your body will rub up and down the door itself, the hold isn’t very comfortable, you can’t close your wrist and you’re limited to just one grip. But in a pinch, you can get some work done. Just be absolutely certain that the door is sturdy enough to do this.

Sling Trainer or Suspension Trainer

In a complete opposite direction to being creative when you’ve got nothing, a sling trainer or a  suspension trainer like the FREESIXD  comes in a neat little package. Most of the components are slings and straps, which fold up nicely. It’ll fit easily with the luggage in the car, an extra bag on the plane or even inside a larger bag if you’re well-organized.

Gymnastic Rings

Gymnastic Rings  are a whole lot more room efficient than a portable Pull-Up Bar. Like the Sling Trainer, a lot is just straps which fold together. The rings themselves are of course flat and light. With the use of door anchors, you can change any door into a versatile Calisthenics exercise machine using Gymnastic Rings.

Here are a number of frequently asked questions we come across regarding travel and Pull-Up Bars.

The simplest way is by bringing a compact, lightweight Travel Pull-Up Bar. These are easily installed and don’t take too much room in your luggage. Alternatively, you can use the door itself by pulling yourself up from the top of the door while it is open. To provide some comfort, drape a towel over the top of the door but make sure the door is sturdy enough to hold your weight.

That depends on the travel. If you travel by car, you could feasibly take any Pull-Up Bar with you as long as it fits inside the car. If you’re travelling by plane, you’ll be limited to luggage weight and the number of bags you can bring. In that case, the Travel Pull-Up Bar will have to fit within those constraints.

The simplest answer would be to make use of the hotel’s amenities, should they possess a fitness room. If they don’t then the second-best option (but which is usually the reality) is to bring your own Travel Pull-Up Bar. Finally, if you’re completely left out of options, you can simply pull up on the door itself.

The Duonamic Eleviia is the most popular Travel Pull-Up Bar on Amazon at the moment. Although not the cheapest option, verified buyers are lauding it for its simplicity, strength, small dimensions and weight and the versatility of exercises you can do with them.

You don’t. The stand-in for the Pull-Up Bar is an opened door from which you do your pull-ups. The towel you can drape over the door to provide a modicum of comfort to your hands.

Your options here are to visit a gym which has a Pull-Up Bar, visit a Calisthenics Park or even a playground with a monkey rack, use a thick tree branch or the upper side of an opened door.

Jelle Smeding

With over 10 years of expertise in calisthenics, Jelle Smeding is a certified coach trained by the Calisthenics Educational Institute. Formerly serving as the director of the Dutch Calisthenics Union (NLCB.nl), Jelle now shines as our YouTube host, where he combines his passion for presenting with his skills in video editing. His content stands out for being not only educational but also thoroughly engaging and entertaining. Additionally, Jelle lends his expertise as our social media manager, ensuring a comprehensive digital experience for our audience.

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The Best Travel Purses, From Chic Shoulder Bags To Packable Crossbodies

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The best travel purses are stylish, lightweight and can hold and organize essential items without feeling cumbersome. We spent hours researching options from a variety of brands to find the very best travel purses; our winner is the MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe , which is made from a durable and waterproof material and has eight useful pockets. We also evaluated purses from lululemon , Baggu , Cuyana , Lo & Sons and more to help you find the best option for your needs.

The best travel purses are durable, versatile, and can hold and organize essential items.

Before making a purchase, consider your travel purse’s primary use. Outdoor enthusiasts might want a water-repellent option , while travelers seeking a day-to-night bag might prefer a leather purse . It’s also helpful to evaluate the bag's size, weight, interior organization and security features, which can be especially important if traveling internationally. Below, the best travel purses of 2024.

• Best Travel Purse Overall: MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe
• Best Affordable Travel Purse: Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag
• Best Crossbody Travel Purse: Lululemon Everywhere Crossbody Bag
• Best Anti-Theft Travel Purse: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag
• Best Leather Travel Purse: Cuyana Double Moon Saddle Bag
• Best Sling Bag For Travel: Lo & Sons Bond Bag
• Best Small Travel Purse: Baggu Mini Nylon Shoulder Bag
• Best Large Travel Purse: Coach Lana Pebble Leather Shoulder Bag

Best Travel Purse Overall

Stylish, waterproof and great for organization, mz wallace small sutton deluxe.

I am a commerce editor for Forbes Vetted covering beauty, fashion, travel and home. Prior to joining Forbes, I held positions at BuzzFeed and Dotdash Meredith where I was responsible for curating lifestyle content and testing products for real-world insights. My work has appeared in Women’s Health, Men’s Health, BuzzFeed, Brit + Co, Everyday Health and more. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Creative Writing from Marist College and currently reside in Brooklyn, New York.

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Dimensions: 9.8 x 5.5 x 10.2 inches |  Weight: 1.1 pounds |  Colors: 19 total |  Materials: Rec Oxford, leather trim

• Durable and waterproof exterior
• Eight pockets
• Detachable, adjustable crossbody strap
• Exterior pockets are not zippered

The MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe earned the top spot on our list thanks to its compact size, well-organized interior and stylish yet durable design. It’s crafted from Rec Oxford fabric and has a padded, almost quilted appearance. The material is waterproof, so you won’t have to worry about the exterior if caught in the rain. There are eight pockets total (six on the inside and two on the outside) to keep you organized on the go, and the main compartment is spacious enough to fit a water bottle, book, passport, wallet, phone, sunglasses and more. Other helpful features include a zip top closure to keep everything secure, a detachable crossbody strap, a phone pocket and a key ring strap. 

Best Affordable Travel Purse

Compact, adjustable and under $20, uniqlo round mini shoulder bag.

Dimensions: 11 x 6.7 x 3.9 inches |  Weight: Not listed |  Colors: 12 total |  Materials: Nylon shell and polyester lining

• Adjustable strap
• Two interior pockets
• Water-repellent finish may wear off over time

If you’re looking for an inexpensive option that you won’t have to be too precious with, we recommend the Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag. It’s shaped like a half-moon and has an adjustable strap to ensure a secure fit. The 100% nylon fabric has a slightly crinkled effect and is treated with a water-repellent finish (although the manufacturer does note that it may wear off over time). There are also two smaller pockets inside for stashing smaller items like a backup charger and wallet. Although the construction is not as thick or durable as our top pick, it’s a great choice if you’re on a budget or want several different colors for variety.

Best Crossbody Travel Purse

Practical, sporty and water-repellent, lululemon everywhere crossbody bag.

Dimensions: 7.7 x 3.1 x 5.3 inches |  Weight: Not listed |  Colors: 2 total |  Materials: Nylon body and recycled polyester lining

• Water-repellent fabric
• Removable, adjustable crossbody strap
• Large exterior zippered pocket
• Limited color options (rose blush/silver and bone/silver)

Crossbody bags allow you to go hands-free when traveling and provide enough room for all your essentials without feeling bulky. This iteration from Lululemon has a removable, adjustable crossbody strap, silver hardware, and multiple pockets to stay organized. The exterior pocket zips close to keep your belongings secure, and the back slip pocket keeps your iPhone handy so you can whip it out when you need to make a call. Its casual look makes it best suited for everyday adventures rather than dressier occasions.

Best Anti-Theft Travel Purse

Rfid blocking pockets and slash-resistant straps, travelon anti-theft classic mini shoulder bag.

Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 x 2.3 inches |  Weight: 0.90 pounds |  Colors: 12 total |  Materials: Slash-resistant nylon

• Slash-resistant body and strap
• RFID-blocking pockets and card slots
• Fun colors and patterns to choose from 
• Design isn’t as stylish as other options

For international trips or getaways to busy locales, you might feel more secure choosing a purse with anti-theft features. The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag stands out among the competition for its many security components, durable materials and uncluttered design. It’s made from slash-resistant nylon, and the strap has a stainless steel wire that runs through it, so thieves can’t cut it. The bag’s main compartment has an organizer with RFID-blocking pockets and the front zippered pocket locks to keep your valuables secure. Plus, it’s easy to wipe down with a damp cloth when it gets dirty. Reviewers say it’s the perfect size for travel, and it doesn’t feel too bulky or cumbersome, even when filled.

Best Leather Travel Purse

Elegant and well-made, cuyana double moon saddle bag.

Dimensions: 7 x 8.5 x 3.5 inches |  Weight: 1.1 pound pounds |  Colors: 3 total |  Materials: Italian pebbled leather

• Made from genuine leather
• Two spacious main compartments
• Add-on accessories cost more

Cuyana is known for its sleek, modern pieces made from gorgeous Italian leather—and this saddle bag is no exception. The pebbled leather is buttery soft, and the elegant shape can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. There are two main compartments—each with its own flap—and a back slip pocket for anything you need quick access to. Both compartments have a magnetic closure, so you won’t have to fumble with zippers when you’re out and about. You can further customize your bag with add-on accessories like an AirPod Case or cardholder .

Best Sling Bag For Travel

Spacious and sleek.

Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Bond Bag

Dimensions: 9.3 x 4.5 x 2.5 inches |  Weight: 1.2 pounds |  Colors: 3 total |  Materials: Sheepskin leather

• Converts to a fanny pack
• Interior key leash and three mesh pockets
• TSA-approved lock can be used with the zippers
• Only three color options

Whether you’re planning to shop, hike or catch a live show during your upcoming travels, the Lo & Sons Bond Bag is a great companion. This sling bag will keep your hands free, and its main compartment typically swings to the front of your body, keeping your belongings safe and secure. The main body has three mesh pockets and one zippered pocket with three built-in card slots, so you don’t have to carry a wallet. There’s also a handy key leash and exterior pocket for your phone. 

I’ve owned this bag for over a year and constantly reach for it, whether I’m headed to a sports game, outdoor concert or casual lunch with friends. It looks sleek no matter what I wear it with and is surprisingly spacious for a sling bag.

Best Small Travel Purse

Compact and easily washable, baggu mini nylon shoulder bag.

Dimensions: 6 x 9 x 2.8 inches |  Weight: Not listed |  Colors: 13 total |  Materials: Recycled heavyweight nylon, recycled ripstop nylon lining 

• Adjustable, quilted strap 
• Made from recycled, washable nylon
• One interior zip pocket
• May not hold up to years of frequent wear
• Lighter colors, like Dove, are a bit see-through 

If you’re looking for a compact shoulder bag that’s functional but still stylish, the Baggu Mini Nylon Shoulder Bag is an excellent pick. It has a structured body that can stand on its own, and it’s made from recycled heavyweight nylon that can be machine-washed. (It’s the only bag on our list that’s washable.) The capacity isn’t huge, but it feels spacious for a smaller bag and works well for everyday use. Customers also appreciate the fun color options and say it’s incredibly lightweight.

Best Large Travel Purse

Three sizable compartments for all your belongings.

Neiman Marcus

Coach Lana Pebble Leather Shoulder Bag

Dimensions: 20.1 x 13.1 x 7.3 inches |  Weight: Not listed |  Colors: 3 total |  Materials: Polished pebble leather, fabric lining

• Made from polished leather
• Three distinct interior compartments
• Protective feet on bottom of bag
• Strap is not adjustable

Easily the largest bag on our list, the Lana Shoulder Bag is a beautifully crafted travel purse that can hold sizable items like an iPad, MacBook Air or an extra pair of shoes. It’s made from pebble leather with a layer of gloss that gives it a stylish sheen, and its flat shoulder strap has a ten-inch drop. Inside the bag, two distinct compartments are divided by a zippered pouch in the middle (within the zippered compartment, there’s also a smaller slip pocket). The two main compartments are ideal for storing a book, electronics, a water bottle, a sweater and other bulky essentials. Although it’s the most expensive bag we highlighted, it’s a well-made investment piece that will last a lifetime.

The Top Baby Travel Essentials To Make Your Next Trip Easier

26 of the best hoodies for men, according to our style editors, why trust forbes vetted.

• The Forbes Vetted team consists of avid travelers who are passionate about sharing their luggage shopping tips with readers. We’ve published dozens of in-depth roundups on travel products , including the best travel totes , best weekender bags and more.
• This article was overseen by senior travel editor Astrid Taran , who has used travel purses on countless trips to more than 35 countries. Two of her favorite travel purse brands are MZ Wallace and Cuyana .
• Katherine Louie , the author of this piece, is a lifestyle editor with extensive experience covering travel and lifestyle topics. She owns the Lo & Sons Bond Bag and uses it constantly, whether traveling internationally or heading on an outdoor excursion.
• This story is regularly checked to ensure that all prices and information are as current as possible.

How We Chose The Best Travel Purses

To find the best travel purses, we researched dozens of best-selling options, compared features and asked our team of experienced staffers for insights.

• We relied on expert advice, independent reviews, research and personal experience to make our recommendations. Louie has over a decade of firsthand experience testing bags, shoes, and other accessories and personally used one of the bags on this list. She also spent more than seven hours researching the best options on the market before making her final selections.
• We analyzed several important features, including dimensions, weight, materials, available color options and interior organization, to help readers pinpoint the best option for their needs.
• The final products on this list reflect in-depth research conducted by our writer and meticulous vetting by the editorial team.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the safest type of purse to travel with.

Generally, crossbody bags are safer when traveling as they can’t be grabbed off your arm or shoulder. Look for bags made from thick, sturdy materials—such as leather—which make it harder for thieves to slash. The safest travel purse on our list is the  Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag because it’s constructed from slash-resistant nylon, and the strap has a stainless steel wire that runs through it. There are also RFID-blocking pockets inside to keep your credit cards secure.

What Kind Of Travel Bag Is Suitable For Short Trips?

All the bags we highlighted on this list are suitable for short trips. They can hold the essentials without feeling heavy or bulky. If you need to pack a few more items (or want to leave room for souvenirs on a day trip), the  Coach Lana Shoulder Bag is the largest bag we recommend. It has three spacious compartments and a comfortable, wide shoulder strap. 

What Color Bag Is Best For Travel?

While the type of travel purse you buy largely depends on personal preference, dark colors are better at hiding stains and spills. Neutral colorways—like black, tan, grey and white—are also good choices because they’re easy to pair with any outfit.

More Travel Stories To Shop

• Best Travel Totes
• Best Weekender Bags
• Best Travel Backpacks For Women
• Best Crossbody Bags For Travel
• Best Travel Outfits For Women

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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. 

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