The 20+ Best Carry-On Suitcases for Every Type of Budget and Traveler
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The difference between an easy travel day and an irritating one often comes down to your suitcase. If you’re dragging a carry-on with broken zippers, sticky wheels or a busted handle through the airport, it’s basically a guarantee that you won’t arrive at your destination in the most pleasant of moods. If it’s time for an upgrade, we’ve rounded up some of the best carry-on suitcases to buy for 2024.
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The standard carry-on size for domestic flights is 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including the wheels and handle), but it may vary by airline. For most major airlines, a 22-inch suitcase fits carry-on requirements.
Luggage brands like Tumi, Rimowa, Briggs & Riley, Samsonite, Away and Shay Mitchell’s Béis offer some of the best carry-on suitcases that are TSA-approved and meet most size requirements. In addition to roller bags, we’ve also highlighted a couple of options for carry-on backpacks and weekender bags for more rugged adventures (including ones from Patagonia and Calpak). With one of these bags, plus a clear toiletry case to keep your bag organized, getting through the airport is easier than ever. You might even be relaxed enough to catch some sleep on your flight.
Related: The Best Luggage Brands For Your Next Adventure
In this update, we’ve added more options for kids and outdoorsy types, along with new releases from Travelpro and Bagsmart. From luxe pieces that last a lifetime to affordable rollers, here are some of the best carry-on suitcases at every price point to shop now.
The Best Carry-On Suitcases, At a Glance
BEST HARDSHELL Samsonite Voltage DLX Global Spinner, from $130
BEST SOFT-SIDED Travelpro Maxlite 5, from $139
BEST EXPANDABLE Away Bigger Carry-On Flex, $345
BEST VALUE Bagsmart 20-Inch Carry-On, from $73
BEST UNDER $150 Quince 20-in. Hard Shell Carry-On, $120
BEST UNDER $300 July Carry-On, from $266
BEST DUFFLE Patagonia Black Hole 55L Duffel, $169
BEST WITH BUILT-IN SCALE Béis Carry-On Roller, $238
MOST LIGHTWEIGHT Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin, $760
BEST FLIGHT ATTENDANT-APPROVED Calpak Ambeur Carry-On, $195
BEST FOR LITTLE KIDS Trunki Ride-On Suitcase, $80
BEST FOR BIG KIDS Fast Forward 20-In. Carry-On, $110
BEST FOR PETS Roverllund Ready to Roll Cabin Carry-On, $389
BEST FOR OUTDOORS Cotopaxi’s Allpa 38L Roller Bag, $350
BEST WITH FRONT POCKET Monos Carry-On Pro Plus, $315
BEST FOR UNDER SEAT Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On, $165
BEST FOR SUITS TravelPro Platinum Elite 21-Inch Expandable Carry-On Spinner, from $365
BEST CARBON NEUTRAL Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus, $425
BEST FOR BUSINESS CLASS Carl Friedrik Carry-On, $495
BEST WITH BUILT-IN GPS Hotel Collection Smart Carry-On, from $210
BEST WARRANTY Briggs & Riley Baseline Global Carry-On, $699
BEST SPLURGE Tumi Alpha Continental Expandable 4-Wheeled Carry-On, $975
BEST WITH SHELVES Royce & Rocket Castle Carry-On, $430
BEST ALUMINUM Rimowa Cabin, $1,430
BEST HARDSHELL CARRY-ON OVERALL
Samsonite Voltage DLX Global Carry-On Spinner
$130 $190 32% off
Samsonite is practically synonymous with the luggage category, and the brand’s Voltage DLX Global carry-on spinner won’t disappoint. It measures 22 inches tall and has compression straps, a USB port and plenty of organizational compartments inside (including a liquid-friendly pocket). It expands up to one inch and you’ll get to benefit from Samsonite’s 10-year limited warranty.
Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner Specifications
Dimensions 14 x 9 x 22 inches
Weight 6.06 pounds
Capacity 49-61 liters
Exterior material Polypyro
Expandable Yes, up to 1 inch
USB port/charger holder Yes (charger not included)
TSA lock Yeso
Warranty 10-year global warranty
BEST SOFTSIDE CARRY-ON
Travelpro Maxlite 5 21-in. Carry-On Spinner
Save $5.75 with Amazon coupon
$138.74 $170 18% off
Many flight attendants swear by soft-sided luggage, which they say is more durable that hard-shelled suitcases. (Take note of what they and pilots tend to bring, and it’s almost always soft bags.) This top-rated Travelpro Maxlite 5 soft-sided expandable luggage gets plenty of love from reviewers on Amazon for being lightweight and maneuverable. The interior is surprisingly spacious and keeps things simple with a zippered mesh pocket and compressive straps. Plus, it features slim exterior pockets to keep tablets, books, laptops or toiletries close at hand. This piece is available in a 19- or a 21-inch version, both in a range of colors.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner Specifications
Dimensions 14 x 9 x 21 inches
Weigh 5.4 pounds
Capacity 46 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable Yes, up to 2 inches
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock Yes
Other features Exterior pockets
Warranty Limited lifetime warranty, 1-year trusted companion promise on registered products
BEST EXPANDABLE CARRY-ON
Away The Bigger Carry-On Flex
Away’s best-selling Bigger Carry-On Flex luggage is one of the best suitcases for travelers who can never seem to pack their stuff back in (or who always manage to bring home extra souvenirs. Boasting the travel brand’s award-winning lightweight and durable polycarbonate shell, this piece unzips to expand an extra 2.25 inches. It’s got a convenient underside grab handle, compressive pockets and a built-in laundry bag to keep your things organized, and it’s roomy enough to hold up to a week’s worth of essentials.
Away The Bigger Carry-On Flex Specifications
Dimensions 14.7 x 9.6 x 22.7 inches
Weight 8.55 pounds
Capacity 47.9 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable Yes
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock Yes
Warranty 100-day return policy, limited lifetime warranty
BEST VALUE
Bagsmart Carry-On Luggage
Save 10% with Amazon coupon
$73.43 $95.99 24% off
Looking for a carry-on under $100? Best-selling Amazon brand Bagsmart’s new lineup of luggage has you covered. This compact 20-inch carry-on is lightweight, expandable, and features 360-degree spinner wheels. It comes in other stylish colors; the brad also offers an equally affordable expandable option.
Bagsmart Carry-On Specifications
Dimensions 14 x 8.7 x 21.7 inches
Weight 6.39 pounds
Capacity 35 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable No
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock Yes
Warranty Two-year limited warranty
BEST CARRY-ON UNDER $150
Quince Carry-On Hard Shell 20-In. Suitcase
For only $120, Quince’s 20-in. polycarbonate shell carry-on has 360-degree Japanese Hinomoto spinner wheels, a sturdy aluminum telescopic trolley handle with soft rubber for comfort, interior compression panels, TSA-approved locks and a removable laundry bag. The 40-liter capacity offers enough space for five to seven outfits, and there’s a 17-by-12-inch interior pocket for storage. It nests into Quince’s larger luggage for easy storage, and also comes in 21-, 24- and 27-inch sizes (including an expandable version for just $20 more).
Quince Carry-On Hard Shell 20-In. Suitcase Specifications
Dimensions 14.4 x x 9.1 x 22 inches
Weight 6.2 pounds
Capacity 40 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable No
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock Yes
Warranty Limited one-year warranty, 100-day return policy
BEST WITH BUILT-IN SCALE
Béis The Carry-On Roller
If you’re known among friends for being someone who always travels in style, you’re probably already familiar with Béis. The Shay Mitchell-owned travel brand is known for its chic and functional luggage, and this carry-on roller is no exception. It’s one of the only suitcases in the market with a built-in weight indicator and comes in a range of eye-catching colors that ensure you always know which bag is yours. Plus, it has multiple interior pockets, compressive straps, and 360-degree wheels to get you from place to place smoothly. Did we mention there’s also an exterior strap that holds your purse and built-in TSA-approved locks?
Béis The Carry-On Specifications
Dimensions 15.7 x 9.8 x 22.8 inches
Weight 8.36 pounds
Capacity 49-61 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable Yes, up to 2 inches
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock Yes
Other features Weight indicator, exterior strap
Warranty Limited lifetime warranty
MOST LIGHTWEIGHT CARRY-ON
Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin
One of the most lightweight carry-on suitcases we’ve found, Rimowa’s Essential Lite Cabin comes in at just under five pounds, making it a great investment piece for anyone who prioritizes craftsmanship and ease of travel. It also features a unique telescoping T-bar handle, easy-to-steer wheels and internal mesh dividers.
If you’re still not convinced, Rimowa offers a lifetime guarantee for all functional aspects of the suitcase, so this could be your new travel companion for a long, long time. The brand’s celebrity ambassadors include Rihanna and Patti Smith, and its luggage has been spotted at airports with Kylie Jenner and Gigi Hadid.
Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin Specifications
Dimensions 15.8 x 9.1 x 21.7 inches
Weight 4.9 pounds
Capacity 38.2 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable No
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock Yes
Warranty Lifetime guarantee
BEST CARRY-ON FOR LITTLE KIDS
Trunki Ride-On Kids Suitcase
Traveling with kids can be quite the adventure, and Trunki’s adorable ride-on suitcase adds some fun to a potentially stressful experience. Designed for kids ages 3 to 6, it comes in a variety of styles and has an 18-liter capacity. Little ones can sit on the luggage and scoot themselves or be pulled by their grown-ups with the handy pull strap. Indepedent kiddos will love carting it on their own, too.
Trunki Ride-On Kids Suitcase Specifications
Dimensions 18.2 x 7.99 x 12.2 inches
Weight 3.74 pounds
Capacity 18 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable No
USB port/charger holder No
Other features Ride-on design (maximum weight 110 pounds)
Warranty Lifetime warranty
BEST CARRY-ON FOR BIG KIDS
Fast Forward Hard-Sided Spinner
For the bigger kids who want to travel with their favorite characters, Fast Forward’s 20-in. carry-on suitcase features designs with Marvel or DC Comics superheroes, Disney princesses, Star Wars, Pixar, Paw Patrol and more. The 360-degree spinner wheels and lightweight ABS plastic case make this luggage lightweight and easy to maneuver, and the interior has plenty of organizers and dividers for efficient packing.
Trunki Ride-On Kids Suitcase Specifications
Dimensions 12 x 8 x 20 inches
Weight 4.65 pounds
Capacity ~38 liters
Exterior material ABS plastic
Expandable No
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock No
Other features Character designs
Warranty Limited warranty
BEST FOR TRAVELING WITH PETS
Roverllund Ready to Roll Cabin Carry-On
Designed with pets in mind, Roverllund’s carry-on roller is horizontal, making it easier to travel with your TSA-approved pet carrier atop your suitcase. The outside pocket is convenient for holding pet treats and leashes, too.
Roverllund Ready to Roll Cabin Carry-On
Dimensions 21 x 14 x 9 inches
Weight 8.4 pounds
Capacity 43 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable No
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock Yes
Warranty Limited one-year warranty
BEST FLIGHT ATTENDANT-APPROVED SUITCASE
Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Luggage
JSX flight attendant Roshonda Payne previously told THR that the brand’s 21-inch Ambeur carry-on “is one of my favorite suitcases for travel because it’s lightweight and expandable. It’s hard-sided so it protects your items better and it comes with a built-in lock.”
The suitcase expands up to two inches and has carbon steel-bearing wheels, and it has a capacity of 43 liters.
Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Specifications
Dimensions 14 x 9 x 21 inches
Weight 7.1 pounds
Capacity 43 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate and ABS plastic
Expandable Yes
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock Yes
Warranty 1-year limited warranty
BEST CARRY-ON WITH BUILT-IN GPS
Hotel Collection Carry-On
$210 $299.95 30% off
On sale for 30 percent off for a limited time, Hotel Collection’s smart carry-on luggage boasts a built-in digital scale, GPS tracker (compatible with Apple devices only), compression system, a portable USB charger and TSA-approved lock, to name a few appealing features. (It’s worth noting that the extras make this heaviest suitcase on our list at 19 pounds.)
Also available in check-in sizes and other colors, the travel-focused brand’s carry-on also features a 360-degree spinner wheels, interior organizers and a clear luggage cover.
Hotel Collection Carry-On Specifications
Dimensions 15.25 x 9.25 x 22.75 inches
Weight 19.125 pounds
Capacity 40 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable No
USB port/charger holder Yes (includes charger)
TSA lock Yes
Other features Built-in digital scale, GPS tracker
Warranty Lifetime warranty
BEST CARRY-ON UNDER $300
July Carry-On
$266 $295 10% off
If you’ve had bad experiences with suitcases that break after getting tossed around, consider July’s elegant carry-on that features aluminum bumpers on the corners and a “crush-proof” German shell. It also features an ejectable battery and external USB port so you can keep your phone or headphones charged while you wait to board your flight.
July Carry-On Specifications
Dimensions 15 inches x 8.5 inches x 21.5 inches
Weight 7.4 pounds
Capacity 42 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable Yes
USB port/charger holder Yes (includes charger)
TSA lock Yes
Warranty Limited lifetime warranty, 100-day return policy
BEST FOR OUTDOOR TRAVEL
Cotopaxi Allpa Roller Bag 38L
Made from 100 percent recycled fabrics, Cotopaxi’s Allpa 38L roller bag is ideal for traveling in rugged conditions. It’s made of water-resistant recycled 840D TPU-coated and ballistic ripstop nylon, and we like the front interior mesh organizer pockets and outer adjustable compression straps for quickly cinching gear after packing. The wheels are durable enough for rolling on hard and uneven terrain, and there are several grab handles on the top and sides. And if you’ve got Cotopaxi’s hip pack, the suitcase’s front pocket is designed to easily hold your smaller carryall.
Cotopaxi Allpa Roller Bag 38L Specifications
Dimensions 12 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches
Weight 6.875 pounds
Capacity 38 liters
Exterior material 840D nylon (ballistic ripstop and TPU-coated)
Expandable Yes
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock No
Warranty Limited lifetime warranty, 100-day return policy
BEST CARRY-ON DUFFLE
Patagonia Black Hole Duffel, 40L
If you’re loyal to your duffel bag, consider Patagonia’s Black Hole backpack in the carry-on 55-liter size. (It also comes in a more compact 40L option.) The padded base and reinforced handles make it durable enough to slide into the overhead bins or take bumps outdoors, and the daisy chains on the sides let you easily clip on your gear. Outdoorsy travelers will love the durable, ripstop exterior material that’s weather-resistant. It’s also got plenty of organizational pockets and removable ergonomic shoulder straps to customize how you carry.
Patagonia 40L Black Hole Duffel Specifications
Dimensions 9.5 x 13.3 x 22.8 inches
Weigh 2.6 pounds
Capacity 55 liters
Exterior material Recycled ripstop polyester with matte recycled laminate
Expandable Yes
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock No
Warranty Patagonia Ironclad guarantee
BEST OVERSIZED CARRY-ON WITH FRONT POCKET
Monos Carry-On Pro Plus
The most annoying thing about carry-ons is that you don’t always have easy access to your belongings. Monos’ sleek Carry-On Pro Plus luggage features an “unbreakable” polycarbonate exterior, an accessible pocket on the front to store your laptop or other small items, and three interior pockets to keep things organized. This bag also simply feels luxurious, thanks to the vegan leather detailing, smooth telescoping handle, and 360-degree spinner wheels.
Monos Carry-On Pro Plus Specifications
Dimensions 15 x 9.5 x 23 inches
Weight 8.38 pounds
Capacity 46 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable No
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock Yes
Warranty Limited lifetime warranty, 100-day trial
BEST UNDER-SEAT CARRY-ON
Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage
Calpak’s lightweight Hue Mini Carry-On is the definition of compact. At 16 inches tall by 14 inches wide by 8.5 inches deep, it can fit beneath most airline seats, so you shouldn’t have any problem getting it on the plane. The zippered interior pockets make it possible to pack everything you need for a long weekend in this sleek little bag.
Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage Specifications
Dimensions 14 x 8.5 x 16 inches
Weight 6.4 pounds
Capacity 31.2 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable No
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock Yes
Warranty 2-year limited warranty
BEST FOR STORING SUITS
TravelPro Platinum Elite 21-Inch Expandable Carry-On Spinner
$365 $430 15% off
TravelPro’s elegant piece of luggage is the perfect upgrade if you need a new carry-on. It has several impressive features, including a built-in USB port and a drop-in, fold-out suiter specifically designed to accommodate hanging clothes. Plus, it expands another two inches to offer some additional capacity for larger loads.
TravelPro Platinum Elite 21-Inch Expandable Carry-On Spinner Specifications
Dimensions 14.5 x 9 x 23.5 inches
Weight 7.8 pounds
Capacity 46 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable Yes, up to 2 inches
USB port/charger holder Yes (charger not included)
TSA lock No
Other features Removable quart-size wet pouch
Warranty Limited lifetime warranty, 120-day trusted companion promise on registered products
BEST CARBON-NEUTRAL CARRY-ON
Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus
Travel the globe guilt-free with carbon-neutral travel brand Paravel’s Aviator Carry-On Plus, which features a polycarbonate shell, zippers, vegan leather, lining and aircraft-grade aluminum telescopic handle that are all made of recycled materials. This stylish luggage also boasts 360-degree carbon steel bearing wheels, an interior compression board, a TSA-approved lock and a removable accessories pouch and laundry bag. If you prefer more compact size for shorter trips, there’s also the regular carry-on for only $395.
Another thing to love? The company offsets the carbon emissions of sourcing, assembling and shipping each product as well as the equivalent of the suitcase’s first flight. Enjoy a 10-year warranty that covers structural damage, wear and tear and manufacturing defects.
Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus Specifications
Dimensions 14.7 x 9.6 x 22.7 inches
Weight 8.5 pounds
Capacity 46.6 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable No
USB port/charger holder No
TSA lock Yes
Warranty 10-year warranty
BEST BUSINESS CLASS CARRY-ON
Carl Friedrik Carry-On
We love the luxe look of Carl Friedrik’s hardshell suitcase, which has a zipperless aluminum frame with two combination lock closures, super-silent 360-degree wheels and is finished with Vachetta leather details that add an extra professional-looking touch when traveling. Inside are compression straps on both sides and a removable compression pad with a pocket (you have the option to add a second pad). Designed to adhere to U.S., European and most other global airline cabin-size guidelines, this carry-on also comes with a removable battery to charge devices.
Carl Friedrik Carry-On Specifications
Dimensions 14.6 x 9.5 x 21.6 inches
Weight 8.6 pounds
Capacity 40 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable No
USB port/charger holder Yes (includes charger)
TSA lock Yes
Warranty Limited lifetime warranty, 100-day return policy
BEST WARRANTY
Briggs & Riley Baseline Global 21-Inch Carry-On Expandable Spinner
Besides the hassle-free Simple as That lifetime guarantee, we love Briggs & Riley’s Baseline Global 21-in. carry-on for its one-touch CX system that expands the suitcase up to two inches. Business travelers will appreciate the built-in tri-fold garment folder that keeps up to two suits wrinkle-free, and genius design touches include strategically-placed mesh lid zip pockets and compression garment panels. Outside, the SmartLink strap lets you conveniently connect another bag, while the SpeedThru pocket provides easy access to items during security checks.
As for that warranty, Briggs & Riley covers repairs on all functional damage on your luggage, no receipt required. That makes the investment worthwhile, as it saves you from having to splurge on a new suitcase if, say, the zipper breaks or the fabric tears. (Marissa Tomei is a brand ambassador.)
Briggs & Riley Baseline Global 21-Inch Carry-On Specifications
Dimensions 15 x 9 x 21 inches
Weight 9.9 pounds
Capacity 49 liters
Exterior material Ballistic nylon
Expandable Yes
USB port/charger holder Yes (does not include charger)
TSA lock Yes
Warranty Lifetime warranty
BEST FOR LONGER TRIPS
Tumi Alpha Continental Expandable 4-Wheeled Carry-On
Tumi is often spotted getting pulled by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and many other stars, but that’s not why the luxury travel brand is considered the best in class. The company was the first to introduce highly durable ballistic nylon in suitcases (as seen in this international-friendly carry-on), and its exclusive material features a special coating that’s “virtually abrasion-proof,” according to the brand.
Details like the impact-absorbing handle, bumper rails and wheels help keep your belongings safe and sound during long flights and rough baggage handling, while other frequent flyer-minded touches include side and bottom grab handles, up to two inches expansion, interior compression straps and pockets, a myriad of exterior and interior compartments and a built-in USB port. We like that Tumi offers the option to add accent colors and monogramming for easier identification at baggage claim. Last but not least, enjoy a five-year repair guarantee.
Tumi Alpha Continental Expandable Carry-On Specifications
Dimensions 16 x 9 x 22 inches
Weight 11.4 pounds
Capacity 42 liters
Exterior material Ballistic nylon
Expandable Yes, up to 2 inches
USB port/charger holder Yes
TSA lock Yes
Warranty Five-year warranty
BEST WITH BUILT-IN SHELVES
Royce & Rocket Castle Expandable Carry-On
If organization is of utmost importance when you’re living out of a suitcase, then you’ll love Royce & Rocket’s one-of-a-kind Castle carry-on. The expandable design gives you an extra two inches of luggage depth, and the unique shelving system folds flat to ensure that you’ve got plenty of packing space. Once you’re ready to settle in, fold the shelves out and snap them in place to display and store your essentials with ease.
Royce & Rocket Castle Expandable Carry-On Specifications
Dimensions 14 x 9 x 21 inches
Weight 8.5 pounds
Capacity 19 liters
Exterior material Polycarbonate
Expandable Yes, up to 2 inches
USB port/charger holder Yes (includes charger)
TSA lock Yes
Other features Built-in shelves
Warranty Limited lifetime warranty, 100-day return policy
BEST ALUMINUM CARRY-ON
Rimowa Cabin
Rimowa is an A-list favorite, with celebrity ambassadors including Rihanna, Lewis Hamilton and Blackpink’s Rosé and the likes of Billie Eilish, Rodger Federer, Martha Stewart and Spike Lee seen carting its luxe luggage. The brand’s best-selling Rimowa Cabin carry-on is among the best aluminum suitcases that’ll take on all of the hard knocks without adding too much extra weight.
Outside, the signature grooved anodized aluminum case, ball-bearing mounted wheels with cushioned axles and a smooth telescopic handle make it handsome and easy to transport. Inside, the adjustable flex divider helps keep belongings organized.
Rimowa Cabin Carry-On Spinner Specifications
Dimensions 15.8 x 9.1 x 21.7 inches
Weight 9.5 pounds
Capacity 34.8 liters
Exterior material Aluminum
Expandable No
USB port/charger holder Yes (charger not included)
TSA lock Yes
Warranty Lifetime guarantee
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