The Best Carry-On Luggage (2023): Lightweight, Stylish & Compact!

Best-Carry-On-Luggage-2017 Reviews of Raden Luggage, CalPak Luggage, Samsonite Luggage, Travelpro, Delsey Luggage and more

 

Carry-On Luggage

I’m fortunate enough to travel for work constantly.

And throughout the 10 years that I’ve been travel blogging, I’ve tried a lot of luggage brands! Today’s carry on suitcases have become quite advanced, almost as if to make up for the increasingly torturous in-flight experience. 

From classic luggage staples, to air hostess carry on brands.. to stylish start up luggage brands, I’ve tried so many out for a spin!

Today’s post is a comprehensive buying guide to the best carry on luggage – whatever your needs!

 

Keep reading, or pin this article to save it for later ⇟ 

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

best-carry-on-luggage-2019

 

Carry-On Suitcases

Here are the top carry-on luggage brands in every category. Click on each product for an in-depth review! 

 

Best Carry-On Luggage Brands

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Best Carry-On Luggage (2023)

 

Best Softside Carry-on

Travelpro Expandable Spinner 21

Dimensions: 21 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches

Weight: 5.9 pounds


Best-Carry-On-Luggage-2017-Travelpro-Maxlite-4-Expandable

An affordable soft-shell carry on for the old school traveler, who prefers lightness and 2 wheels.

This is a classic soft suitcase, with 2 wheels and a deep main compartment that can easily fit a week’s worth of clothes.

The front lid has lots of zipped compartments for organization and the hard wearing nylon exterior, solid handles and smooth wheels make this one of the best soft carry on options on the market .

The Travelpro is also incredibly light weight. It should transition smoothly from business trips to vacations in Europe!

Travelpro Soft Luggage

Sold on Amazon & Zappos

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Best Hard-shell Carry-on

Samsonite Hardside Spinner 20

Dimensions: 20 inches x 13.5 inches x 9.5 inches

Weight: 6.7 pounds


best-hard-side-carry-on

This is Amazon’s best selling carry-on luggage for travel – for good reason!

Lightweight with re-engineered spinner wheels, this suitcase offers easy mobility and comes with a TSA lock. It’s available in 10 colors and has spinner wheels for full mobility.

Plus, Samsonite backs its products with a 10 year warranty, so you know you’re getting quality.

The outer case features a micro diamond, brushed exterior that hides scratches and dings so it still looks pretty “new” after a couple long-haul trips! 

Samsoniste Hard Carry On

Sold on Amazon, Zappos & eBags

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Best Lightweight Carry-on

Delsey Carry-On Spinner

Dimensions: 21.75 inches x 13.75 inches x 9.75 inches

Weight: 4.8 pounds


delsey-zipperless-luggage

Delsey is a high quality French luggage brand that offers a 10 year worldwide warranty.

They stand behind their products and recently introduced their lightest hardside suitcase yet, at a miraculous 4.8 pounds! 

The carry on comes with a 100% polycarbonate shell that resists cracks and breaks. I especially like the metallic finish, which looks sleek, shiny and much more expensive than it actually costs!

Inside, two packing bags for shoes and laundry are included, which is a nice touch. Of all the carry on luggage pieces listed here, Delsey luggage has the best wheels for easy mobility and comes with a TSA approved lock.

Delsey Carry On Hard Luggage

Sold on Amazon, Bloomingdales

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

Best International Carry-on

Briggs & Riley International Carry-On

Dimensions: 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches

Weight: 9.3 pounds


Best-Carry-On-Luggage-2017-Briggs-&-Riley-Baseline-Carry-On-Expandable

Want the biggest carry on that still fits US airline requirements?

The beautiful flat bag is it.

With an extra roomy interior and classic exterior, this is one suitcase that will stand the test of time.

We love how functional and light weight their luggage pieces are, as the exterior soft shell comes in handy for odds and ends.

We’re those people that over pack and struggle with carrying luggage up and down stairs, thus nicking the bottom half the time, but the Briggs & Riley still looks like new despite the beating.

While Briggs & Riley is pricey, we’ve had our bag for 8 years now and it still looks amazing – the quality is absolutely fantastic and they offer a lifetime guaranty – which is a true testament to the durability.

Briggs & Riley Soft Carry On

Sold at Amazon, Nordstrom & Zappos

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Best Affordable Carry-on

Amazon Basics Carry On 20″

Dimensions: 21.6 inches x 14.4 inches x 9.2 inches


cheap-carry-on-luggage

If you only travel a couple times a year, there’s no need to spend a fortune on a suitcase.

Amazon makes a solid hardshell suitcase that’s perfect for weekend getaways or international vacations.

With over 12,000 rave 5-star reviews, the polycarbonate spinner has features that are on par with much more expensive luggage brands. 

The interior is lined with 3 zippered pockets. On the outside, 4 spinner wheels, TSA locks, and a protective scratch resistant finish make this Amazon Basics suitcase more than just basic! 

Amazon Basics Luggage

Sold on Amazon

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Most Stylish Carry-on

Calpak Carry On 20″

Dimensions: 20 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches

Weight: 7.0 pounds


calpak-carry-on-luggage

Calpak makes the perfect carry on piece for those looking for attractive hard shelled luggage options at an affordable price.

This is my top pick for gorgeous, affordable hard luggage that can take a beating.

They offer lots of matching 2 piece and 3 piece sets, all with TSA approved locks and mesh pockets to divide the interior.

I recommend Calpak’s packing cubes as well, which are perfectly sized to fit the interior and machine washable. Check out their adorable hat boxes too!

The outer hard cases will get small nicks and scratches but have held up for me on trips all around the world! 

Calpak Luggage

Sold at Nordstrom, Shopbop, Net A Porter

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Most Unique Carry-on Luggage

Roam Luggage The Jaunt

Dimensions: 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches

Weight: 6.6 pounds


most-unique-carry-on-luggage-roam-luggage-review

Want unique luggage that no one else will have? 

Enter Roam, a new suitcase brand that allows you to completely customize your luggage – from the zipper, wheel hubcaps, front and back shell and even the stitching.

There are over 1 million possible color combinations! 

You can even monogram your case for the ultimate custom touch. 

But of course, Roam Luggage offers more than just looks – it’s engineered with top-quality wheels, ergonomic handles and lightweight materials. 

Best of all, Roam Luggage offers a 60 day trial, free shipping, free returns and a generous 5 year warranty.

Roam Luggage

Sold at Roam (60 day free trial + free shipping)

See all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Most Durable Carry-on

Tumi Alpha 3 Carry-On

Dimensions: 22 inches x 16 inches x 9 inches

Weight: 11.1 pounds


Best-Carry-On-Luggage-TUMI

When it comes to the best carry-on luggage (or any luggage for that matter), Tumi is always a classic choice. 

The Tumi Alpha 3 carry-on comes with all the tech and features necessary for the weary wanderer, including a one-suit garment bag, super-durable ballistic nylon fabric, an integrated USB port, and main compartment accessibility via the front lid! 

Overall, a solid carry on but definitely a little more expensive due to the Tumi brand.

Tumi Carry On

Sold on Amazon & Zappos

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Best Underseat Carry-on

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Luggage

Dimensions: 13 inches x 13 inches x 6.5 inches

Weight: 5.0 pounds


Best-Carry-On-Luggage-Samsonite

The Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Luggage is a favorite with flight attendants – and for good reason.

The small size surprisingly holds a decent amount – this is the perfect bag for business trips where you just need clothes for a long weekend getaway.

It even comes with a Wetpak zippered compartment to store wet and damp clothing – ideal for that carry-on-only beach trip you’ve been waiting to plan! 

Ultra light, with durable spinner wheels, a low profile and water repellent exterior, the Samsonite fits easily under airline seats and can also strap on to larger luggage pieces.

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Luggage

Sold on Amazon & Zappos

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Best Wheeled Duffel Carry-on

eBags Mother Lode Wheeled Duffel Bag 21

Dimensions: 21.5 inches x 15 inches x 9 inches

Weight: 8 pounds


wheeled-duffel-carry-on

This crowd favorite is tough, light weight and incredibly useful.

With tons of compartments – 2 main packing sections, a divider, tie down straps and zippered side pockets – it’s highly functional.

The eBags wheeled duffel would be perfect for weekend getaways, road trips and short vacations. It’s two wheels are easy to maneuver and its 4 external compression straps keep everything secure. 

In addition, the eBags Mother Lode includes a telescoping pull handle and lower compartment for even more room!

eBags Wheeled Carry On Luggage

Sold on Amazon & eBags

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Best Carry-on Backpack

Osprey Packs Travel Backpack

Dimensions: 20 inches x 13 inches x 12 inches

Weight: 1 pound


carry-on-backpack

Osprey is one of the most well known backpack brands, with a huge range of styles, colors and sizes.

The Porter 30 is great for lightweight packers who prefer to use a carry on backpack.

With straight jacket compression to protect your things, a shoulder harness and hip belt, the Osprey carry on backpack is comfortable to carry all day long.

At the rear, there’s a separate protected panel to easily stow your laptop or tablet for quick access during security screenings.

In the front, an organization pocket is handy for stowing small items!

Osprey Carry On Backpack

Sold on Amazon & Zappos

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Best Luxury Carry-on Luggage

Steve Madden Softside Carry-On 

Dimensions: 21.5 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches

Weight: 7.8 pounds


Best-Carry-On-Luggage-Steve-Madden

Because who doesn’t like the finer things in life? 

While some people are comfortable walking around with little more than sweatpants and a bindle (and more power to them, I wish I had that self-confidence), I always am hyper-sensitive about how I look – even in airports. 

That’s why the Steve Madden Softside Carry-On (which straight up looks like a Louis Vuitton bag!) is the perfect luxury carry-on luggage piece. 

But don’t be fooled. This baby doesn’t just look pretty. 

The Steve Madden features a wide spinner-wheel base, ergonomic handle, and unique case platform that adds extra strength, balance, and durability! 

Steve Madden Softside Carry-On

Sold on Amazon

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Best Spinner Carry-on Luggage

Coolife Spinner Carry-On Luggage

Dimensions: 21 inches x 15 inches x 8 inches

Weight: 8.1 pounds


Best-Carry-On-Luggage-Coollife

While luxury is nice, sometimes the best carry-on luggage is the grinder.

You know, the luggage that can withstand the jabs, take the hits on the chin, and still make it to work the next day. 

Wait, am I still talking about luggage or my usual Thursday nights bar-hopping? 

Anyway

Enter the Coolife Spinner Carry-On Luggage, a modest-looking piece that features an industrial-strength plastic shell, aluminum telescoping handle, and certified TSA lock. 

If you like what you see, Coolife also offers 2 larger, checked-luggage-sized pieces, including a 28″ expandable version! 

Coolife Spinner Carry-On Luggage

Sold on Amazon

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Best Carry-on for Frequent Travelers

Travelers Club Chicago Spinner Carry-on Luggage

Dimensions: 20 inches x 13 inches x 11 inches

Weight: 5.6 pounds


Best-Carry-On-Luggage-Travelers-Club

There’s nothing wrong with basics, and the Travelers Club Chicago Spinner Carry-on Luggage has plenty. 

It’s incredibly light for its size, has expandable capacity, features spinner wheels, and is durable.

All that is fine. Dandy, even. But allow me to cut to the chase with the Travelers Club

It tackles a HUGE pet peeve of mine with carry-on luggage.

Namely, most carry-on luggage pieces have such an annoyingly short handle, leading to back pain, airport frustration, and generally looking like you’re Quasimodo while running (read: aching) around the airport. 

Mercifully, the Travelers Club has an extra-long 22″ handle (more than the height of the entire 20″ carry-on), leading to an immense amount of ache-free jet-setting! 

Travelers Club Spinner Carry-on

Sold on Amazon

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Best Two-Wheeler Carry-on

Rockland Softside Upright Luggage Set

Dimensions: 19 inches x 13 inches x 7.5 inches

Weight: 6 pounds


Best-Carry-On-Luggage-Rockland

When I worked in an office, bonus time was my favorite time of the year. And things are no different when it comes to the best carry-on luggage. 

The sleek and lightweight Rockland Softside Upright Luggage Set features a lightweight 19″ 2-spinner-wheel carry-on that is perfect for a long weekend’s amount of clothes and sundries. 

At a competitive value, Rockland also throws in an adorable 14″ tote that is the perfect size for a camera bag, electronics hull, or wet pack! 

Rockland Softside Upright Luggage Set

Sold on Amazon

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

best-carry-on-suitcase

 

Must Have Accessories for Carry On Luggage

Attachable Luggage Tote

Nothing beats the ease of traveling with shoulders free.

Whether you’re a woman looking to put down your handbag or a man traveling with a business briefcase, you need a travel tote that will beautifully attach to a carry on roller’s long handle.

Lipault makes my favorite travel tote bag.

 

Best-Carry-On-Luggage-2017 Reviews of Raden Luggage, CalPak Luggage, Samsonite Luggage, Travelpro, Delsey Luggage and more

The sleek black exterior resists stains and looks sharp while the interior can comfortably fit a 15″ laptop, DSLR camera, notebooks, a change of clothes and other basic necessities.

I’ve had mine for over 5 years at this point and the heavy duty nylon resists dirt and grime, so it still looks sleek!

My favorite feature is the large zippered pocket on the exterior which slides right over your carry on luggage handle so that you can wheel both together with ease!

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

messy-carry-on-luggage

from this…

organized-carry-on-suitcase-with-packing-cubes

….to this!

 

 

Packing Cubes

Once you get a packing cube set, you’ll never go back to free range luggage.

Packing cubes help maximize space inside your luggage by neatly organizing clothing and separating your dirty worn clothes from freshly laundered ones.

Amazon carries a wide range of packing cube sets and brands at different price points.

Personally I use Calpak’s set which are made to perfectly fit their luggage. They’re durable, even after I’ve thrown them in the wash over and over!

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

best-carry-on-luggage-brands

 

What to Look For in Carry On Luggage

Luggage can be a pricey investment so you want to do some research to make sure you’re getting the best carry on for your needs. Here are some things to consider:

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Size

Every airline is different, but in general, passengers are typically allowed 1 personal bag (say, a laptop bag, backpack or purse) and 1 cabin bag. For U.S. airlines, carry-on bags can measure no more than 22″ x 14″ x 9″.

If you’re flying internationally, you may want to opt for a bag no more than 21″ inches, as some international airlines (in particular budget airlines) can be more strict. Double check on the airline website for the latest info.

Tip: Always make sure you can depart with your suitcase in its tightest form, fully zipped up. I have found that flight attendants will often do a visual check when it’s time to board the plane. If your carry-on is unzipped, they’ll often deny it and say it is over sized

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Weight

If you’re like me, you want the lightest carry-on bag possible.

Pushing, heaving and forcing an overweight bag into the overhead bins is painful and a safety risk. I try to look for carry on suitcases that weigh no more than 10 pounds when empty, and ideally, weigh between 6 to 8 pounds.

Most airlines have a maximum weight of 40 pounds for a carry-on bag.

It depends on the airline, but many international carriers will weigh both your checked bag and your carry-on so it’s important to stay within the limit.

Not sure how much your luggage weighs?

Grab this inexpensive luggage scale so you know before you show up at the airline! 

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

4 Wheels vs. 2 Wheels

The standard 2 wheel suitcase is for those who don’t mind pulling a suitcase behind them.

This type of carry-on bag tends to be cheaper and often has more internal space.

Personally, we think 4 wheeled suitcases are the new standard.

Four wheel bags, sometimes called “spinner” suitcases, have the flexibility to push the luggage upright as the wheels are multi-directional and give you full control to turn in any direction.

 

Handles

Ideally, the best carry-on will have a short top handle, a side handle for lifting, as well as an extra sturdy telescopic handle that can both push and pull the luggage with ease.

The best telescopic handles are tall enough to allow you to pull your luggage at a comfortable arm length while also contracting mid-way.

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Interior Construction

Nowadays, you have 2 choices for carry on luggage interiors.

One type has a deep compartment with an outer flap.

The second type is called a ‘sandwich’ or ‘clamshell’ construction where the suitcase is split into 2 equal halves.

It’s a personal choice as far as which you prefer. 

While I like about sandwich construction luggage is that it allows me to stay better organized (for example, clothes on one half, shoes + toiletries on the other). 

However, most hotel room luggage racks are built for the original, 1 compartment suitcase. The racks are generally not wide enough to support both halves, so it can lead to a messier travel experience. Of course, you can always fully unpack!

 

Hard Luggage vs. Soft Luggage

This is more a matter of personal preference.

Soft carry-on luggage allows you to really maximize storage and squeeze in that extra inch of room. Typically there’s an outer pocket where I store papers and odds and ends. Soft suitcases tend to be heavier but hold up better to wear and tear.

Hard carry on luggage is sleeker and has a more distinctive, luxurious look. Thin polycarbonate hardcases can often be lighter, but in my experience, scratch easily. 

Whichever you choose, make sure there are plenty of internal pockets for organization!

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Carry-on Backpack vs. Duffel vs. Carry-on Suitcase

Personally, I tend to over-pack, so I prefer a carry-on suitcase, which is larger and has more room for all my camera gear, clothes and extra shoes.

But, as US airlines have started to introduce Basic Economy fares, where the chance of grabbing overhead bin space is becoming scarce, carry-on backpacks have become an attractive option!

Travel backpacks will always fit under the seat and typically have tons of compartments and pockets for all your travel accessories

 

Smart Luggage

Almost every gadget nowadays, from lights to kitchen appliances, comes in a ‘smart’ option.

Smart luggage typically has fancy extras like, power banks to charge your phone, GPS tracking, TSA approved locks and electronic baggage tags.

Typically, you’ll pay a bit more for these features but it can give you peace of mind to locate lost luggage and keep your belongings safe. 

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

What is the standard carry-on luggage size?

Always check with your flight company first as every airline lists their maximum allowed carry on size limits.

In the US, the universally accepted dimensions for American airlines are 22″ x 14″ x 9″. This is supposed to include the handles and wheels.

International carriers, especially international low cost carriers, can be even stricter. So often you’ll see a manufacturer makes a “carry on” size for the US market that’s 22″ and an “international carry on” that’s 21″.

In reality, I’ve traveled all over the world with my 21″ carry on and never had an issue, but your mileage may vary.

What seems most important is the weight of the bag (most international airlines will weigh carry ons whereas they don’t really do that in the US) and the ‘look’ of the bag.

Gate attendants will look at an expanded bag and mark it as oversized, so make sure everything fits with the suitcase fully zipped at its smallest state.

 

What to pack in a carry-on bag?

Think of your carry-on as your most important luggage piece and store everything that you need in your hand luggage! 

I’m happy to check clothes, but important items go in my cabin bag – medication, electronics, jewelry and toiletries.

I usually also bring a change of clothes, just in case my checked luggage gets delayed (which happens often on long haul flights with layovers). 

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

What NOT to pack in your carry-on bag?

There’s a long list of items that you’re not allowed to pack in your carry-on suitcase.

Most of these are obvious, and include: sharp objects, guns, firearms, flammable items, explosive materials, and large sporting equipment.

Liquids are subject to the 3-1-1 rule. All liquids must be less than 3.4 ounces (100 ml), must be placed inside one clear quarter-sized bag and only one liquids bag is allowed per passenger. 

 

Are smart carry-on bags allowed on flights?

Starting in 2019, many airlines (including Delta, American, Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines) issued a ban on the lithium-ion batteries found in smart luggage.

Smart suitcases are no longer allowed to be checked at all, and can only be carried in the cabin if the battery is removable.

We recommend avoiding smart luggage and getting an external battery charger for your phone instead. 

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

Best Carry On Luggage 2022 – Summary Comparison Chart


To summarize, here’s a handy chart to compare each of the different luggage brands so you can easily identify which carry on luggage option is best for you!

I’ve grouped my luggage picks by hard shell and then soft shell.

 

 

What’s your favorite luggage brand?

 

ADVERTISEMENT


 

 

 Read More   in my travel packing checklist series:

 

Best Travel Luggage

The Best Carry on Luggage for 2021

The Best Packing Cubes for a Perfectly Organized Bag

The Best Lightweight Luggage for Overpackers

The Best Hard Luggage Sets for Stylish Travelers

The Best Underseat Luggage for Minimalists

The Best Carry On Bags for Men - Rugged + Durable!

 

Business Travel

The Essential Business Packing List

The Best Business Travel Luggage

The Best Laptop Cases for Working Women

The Best Laptop Bags for Men

 

Packing Hacks

The Best Travel Wallets for All Your Vacation Essentials

The Best Jewelry Cases Never Untangle a Necklace Again!

The Best Toiletry Bags to Clean Up Quick

 

Travel Packing Lists

The Best Travel Jackets for All Types of Weather

The Best Duffel Bags for Your Next Weekend Trip

The Best Travel Backpacks to Hold Everything You Need

 

Follow me @Sher She Goes on

Youtube | Tiktok | Instagram

Share:

79 Comments

  1. Leah
    February 8, 2017 / 8:04 am

    I am all about good luggage!! These sound awesome!

  2. Kenzie
    February 9, 2017 / 2:53 pm

    I’ve been looking for some new luggage! Those packing cubes look like a great buy too!

  3. Joyce
    February 21, 2017 / 9:21 pm

    Love this comprehensive roundup! The samsonite omni, raden, and tumi look super interesting!

  4. Bri Gibbs
    April 13, 2017 / 9:10 am

    What are the two brands of luggage at the top of the article?
    You have two pieces on the left and one piece on the right. They are all shades of green. What and where can I find those pieces?

    • Sher
      Author
      April 14, 2017 / 6:29 pm

      Hi Bri – those are from Away luggage. I haven’t tried them yet but they’re another new, “smart” luggage type brand with sandwich-style construction. Let me know if you get it and end up loving it!

      • Wendy
        July 25, 2017 / 1:04 am

        I was directed to your page cause I was super duper thinking I’d get the carry on or larger carry on from away. The warranty and reviews are just too darn good to pass up. Please get it and review it !!!!

        • Sher
          Author
          July 25, 2017 / 2:12 am

          Will do! My apt is overflowing with luggage at the moment but Away is next on my list to try :)

  5. Melissa
    May 26, 2017 / 12:21 am

    This was really helpful. I like the Lipault tote you highlighted. I use the Von Baer Milan Dark Gray Travel Bag because prefer leather to cloth for bags, it’s really durable.

    • Sher
      Author
      May 26, 2017 / 10:01 am

      Glad you found it useful Melissa! I’ve brought the Lipault everywhere and its held up so well. Interesting, I’ll check out the one you mentioned. I usually prefer leather but for travel I worry theyll get destroyed

  6. AS
    July 1, 2017 / 8:41 am

    What packing cubes did your purchase? There are sooo many options on Amazon. Do you have a favourite?

  7. Elisa
    September 7, 2017 / 9:29 am

    Quick question can you please tell me what brand of luggage is on your picture on the very top of your page? Its a light olive greenish color paired with calpak backpack.

    Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  8. Anna
    September 9, 2017 / 6:21 am

    Surprised at your list considering most of the bags are so heavy while empty that you don’t have much allowance left to actually pack anything inside.

    • Sher
      Author
      September 9, 2017 / 11:05 am

      Hm are we looking at the same lisf? Haha! These are all very lightweight and fit a ton, compared to other brands I’ve tried. Which carry on do you use that you like?

  9. Gigi
    November 7, 2017 / 8:58 am

    How did you test all of the luggage in this article as you mentioned? Do you own all the pieces and brought them all on trips?

    • Sher
      Author
      November 7, 2017 / 10:15 am

      Yep! Unlike travel & leisure, buzzfeed, business insider and all those types of sites, I’ve used all these suitcases I mentioned! I travel every month so there were lots of opportunities to test out different brands.

  10. Richard A
    March 21, 2018 / 12:51 am

    This is a fantastic list of carry-on bags, one of our favorites is the Tumi Alpha Expandable International Carry-On.

  11. Kas
    March 30, 2018 / 8:41 pm

    Hi, I was wondering what version your calpak is specifically called and if it was made of only abs or abs and pc coating. Thanks!

    • Sher
      Author
      March 31, 2018 / 10:34 am

      Hi Kas – Hm I don’t know what you mean by “only abs or abs and pc coating”

  12. Kas
    April 13, 2018 / 12:24 pm

    Most hard case luggage are made from polycarbonate (PC) or acrylnitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS). PC is usually more durable than ABS. So I was debating whether to buy an ABS luggage from calpak but I wasn’t too sure about its durability.

    • Sher
      Author
      April 13, 2018 / 12:38 pm

      Hi Kas! I can definitely say my Calpak is really durable. I’ve used it on over 20 trips (international and domestic) and while the outside has
      some scratches, there aren’t any dings, broken zippers or holes, and most importantly to me, the wheels are still good as new.

      In terms of whether the luggage is PC or ABS, I’m not sure, but you can ask Calpak’s customer service, I’m sure they could give you a more complete answer!

  13. Andrea Barrett
    June 11, 2018 / 9:11 am

    Each of these spinner carryons exceeds my airline’s required dimensions of 21 x 13 x9 inches. While the copy on each website gives one set of dimensions, customer reviews clearly state that the suitcases are around 1/2 to 2 inches larger than claimed.

    • Sher
      Author
      June 11, 2018 / 9:28 am

      Hi Andrea – What airline do you fly and which spinner are you referring to? All the brand dimensions are listed which are the suitcase bodies. If you’re measuring the entire suitcase, factor 1-2 inches extra for the exterior wheels. All the airlines I’ve flown allow 22 x 14 x 9, so maybe you’re flying a particularly strict one?

      I’ve used these and they all fit as a carry on in the overhead bins. I’ve also never been stopped for using them (just make sure you keep them un-expanded) and use a luggage scale to weigh them before you go. Check in agents look for weight, and gate checkers look at the overall size with the naked eye (they won’t let you carry on if it’s unzipped to be expanded).

  14. Kara Bui
    August 7, 2018 / 12:23 am

    I’m looking for a strong one like the Delsey Hard Luggage. It’s elegant, too!

  15. Missy
    September 8, 2018 / 1:22 pm

    We are flying Iceland Air to Ireland and the dimensions for their carry on is only 7.8”. Deep, most of the ones you show are 9+. Any suggestions?

    • Sher
      Author
      September 8, 2018 / 1:41 pm

      Hi Missy – Pretty much any carry on that you buy in the US will be 9 inches deep, since that’s the carry on dimensions for the major US carriers (united, american, delta) and manufacturers build to that size. I’ve always used my American carry on bags when traveling throughout Europe and never had a problem! (Even a 9″ depth carry on will fit in those sizer things at the airport)

      For the airport, I find that the key is to never expand the carry on bag (if it’s expandable) and to double check the weight. I’ve never had a counter agent never measure a bag but international airports will often weigh carry on pieces.

      If you are really wanting a new bag that’s 7″, you can go to a store like TJ Maxx or Macys and bring a measuring tape to check them out. That should be easier than ordering online!

  16. Matthew Karlo
    October 10, 2018 / 8:33 am

    I’m always dilly-dallying between hard side and soft side luggage. The good thing with the soft side is that it won’t hurt your leg if it dangles against it when you lift and/or wear your bag. On the other hand, it doesn’t protect fragile things inside as well as a hard side… Oh well, I’ll just have to buy one of each I guess.

  17. Tom Stanton
    October 19, 2018 / 10:02 am

    This is for my wife and she travels a lot! 2-3 day trips but all the carry-on we have gotten the wheels fail on because the shuttle drivers always seem to be dropping them on their wheels. Are any soft sided carry ons made with skate board wheels? if not it is an Idea that would sell like crazy!

  18. Allison
    March 16, 2019 / 2:57 pm

    Your information is good but you don’t mention the weight of the luggage. Especially for older people putting that carryon in the overhead bin can be a feat and when the luggage starts at 10 – 13 pounds without anything in it, it can become very heavy and cumbersome. I think the weight should be a factor in your rating. You listed the weight but made no mention of it. I have large luggage that only weighs 8 pounds.

    • Sher
      Author
      March 16, 2019 / 3:26 pm

      Hi Allison – Thanks for taking the time to comment!

      I did list the weight of each product in the specs. I also mentioned, in particular, that the Samsonite is lightweight and under 7 pounds, the Travelpro is perfect for travelers who want a light soft shell (as soft shells tend to be heavier) and the SwissGear is light and easy to fit in the overhead bins.

      Would love to know what large suitcase you use that is 8 pounds. I’m always on the lookout for new brands to check out!

  19. Trina Simpsom
    April 27, 2019 / 5:47 pm

    You may have responded to this question previously but are the luggage wheels and handles included in the size dimensions? It seems to be a factor in carryon sizing for the airlines.

    • Sher
      Author
      April 28, 2019 / 3:11 pm

      Yes

  20. Lynn
    August 17, 2019 / 8:26 pm

    Hi…I never travel so am interested in the lower priced but still good reviewed Amazon brand. Delta restrictions states depth at 9”. On Amazon’s site the diagram reflects 10” deep. Reviews and questions run mixed from 9” to 9.2” and beyond.
    I’m on brain overload at this point. A USA Today article reflects a photo of the Delta Size tester box which apparently offers almost 9.9” leeway but being I never fly would be paranoid to just take the chance! Are you able to please shed any lite on the misnomers? TIA!
    Also, I believe you mentioned TSA locks on these but I can’t find reference on Amazon…just need to know if I settle on these if I need separate locks.

  21. JOANNE E FORKIN
    October 11, 2019 / 1:17 pm

    Hi Sher,

    Travel mostly to France and US..live in Tulum, MX…like the Delsey carry on, never considered. I can find on Delsey US or Mexico or Amazon. Which is best site to use your discount code and how to do it. Thanks.

    • Sher
      Author
      October 12, 2019 / 5:51 pm

      Hi, if you’d like to use the discount code you can purchase via the Delsey website (link is in the post). Simply enter the code at checkout :)

  22. barbara
    January 12, 2020 / 10:40 pm

    Great!

  23. barbara devine
    January 14, 2020 / 8:51 pm

    Need this beautiful luggage!!

Leave a Reply

%d