Did you know that traveling with a carry-on suitcase can save you from the hassle of checked bag lines and fees? Many travelers at Travel + Leisure swear by the convenience of carrying their belongings on board.
The right bag can transform your travel experience, eliminating the need to wait at baggage claim and saving you money on checked baggage fees. Our expert team has tested dozens of suitcases to identify the most durable, functional, and value-packed options available on Amazon.
When selecting the perfect carry-on luggage, it’s essential to consider factors such as dimensions, overhead compartment fit, and organization features. Our comprehensive guide will help you find the ideal bag for your next trip, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.
Why Traveling with Carry-On Luggage Makes Your Journey Easier
Traveling with carry-on luggage can significantly simplify your travel experience. By avoiding checked bags, you can bypass the hassle of waiting at the baggage carousel and the anxiety of potentially lost or delayed luggage. This approach to travel not only saves time but also reduces stress, making your overall journey more enjoyable.
Benefits of Skipping the Checked Bag
Skipping the checked bag comes with several benefits, including financial savings and increased mobility. By traveling with a carry-on, you can avoid fees associated with checking bags, which can add up, especially on multi-leg flights or when traveling with family. Moreover, having your bag with you at all times means you can access your essentials immediately upon arrival, without waiting for your luggage at the baggage claim.
- Avoiding the anxiety of lost or delayed checked bags.
- Financial savings through avoided checked baggage fees.
- Time efficiency by bypassing check-in lines and baggage claim waits.
How the Right Carry-On Can Transform Your Travel Experience
The right carry-on luggage can greatly enhance your travel experience by providing greater mobility and encouraging more mindful packing habits. Modern luggage designs maximize packing space while adhering to airline size requirements, allowing you to pack efficiently for your trip. A well-designed suitcase or bag can make navigating through crowded airports, train stations, and city streets much easier.
- Greater mobility with a decently sized carry-on bag.
- More efficient packing due to maximized space in modern luggage designs.
- Enhanced travel experience through reduced stress and increased convenience.
How We Tested and Selected the Best Carry-On Luggage
Through extensive research and testing, we’ve narrowed down the best carry-on luggage for travelers. Our goal was to identify the most reliable, efficient, and comfortable options available on Amazon.
Our Testing Methodology
To ensure our recommendations meet the highest standards, we developed a comprehensive testing methodology. We evaluated 454 carry-on bags across multiple brands, price points, and designs. Our testing process involved several key steps:
- Creating a simulated airplane environment to test compliance with airline size requirements and overhead bin compatibility.
- Packing each bag with a standardized set of items for a four-day trip to assess capacity and organization features.
- Conducting durability tests, including impact, wheel stress, and handle durability assessments.
- Evaluating maneuverability on various surfaces, such as carpet, tile, and concrete, as well as through tight spaces.
- Assessing the value of each bag by considering its price point in relation to its quality and performance.
Key Factors We Evaluated
When testing carry-on luggage, we focused on several critical factors that impact the travel experience. These included:
- Capacity and Organization: How well can the bag accommodate essentials for a trip, and how effectively are items organized?
- Maneuverability: How smoothly does the bag roll on different surfaces, and how easily can it be navigated through crowded airport aisles?
- Durability: Can the bag withstand the rigors of frequent travel, including impacts, scratches, and wear on wheels and handles?
- Value: Does the bag offer a good balance between price and quality, providing excellent performance without unnecessary premium pricing?
By carefully evaluating these factors, we were able to identify the best carry-on luggage options that cater to various travel needs and preferences.
Hardside vs. Softside Carry-On Luggage: Which Is Right for You?
For many travelers, the choice between hardside and softside carry-on luggage depends on several factors, including durability, protection, and flexibility. Understanding the pros and cons of each type is crucial in making an informed decision.
Pros and Cons of Hardside Luggage
Hardside luggage is known for its rigid polycarbonate shell, which offers superior protection for fragile items. This makes it an ideal choice for travelers carrying electronics or breakable souvenirs. Additionally, hardside suitcases often have a sleek, modern aesthetic that appeals to style-conscious travelers.
However, hardside luggage is more prone to getting scuffed, scraped, and dented, and can show more wear and tear over time. Despite this, the benefits of hardside luggage make it a popular choice among travelers who prioritize protection and style.
- Superior protection for fragile items
- Sleek, modern design
- Weather resistance
Pros and Cons of Softside Luggage
Softside luggage, on the other hand, offers greater flexibility for overpackers with its expandable fabric exterior. This feature allows travelers to accommodate last-minute additions or souvenirs without worrying about exceeding size restrictions.
However, the fabric exterior of softside luggage is less protective and may not be the best choice for travelers who expect to encounter inclement weather. Additionally, softside bags often weigh less than their hardside counterparts, making them a good option for travelers concerned about lifting their bag into overhead bins.
- Greater flexibility for overpackers
- More external pockets for organization
- Generally lighter than hardside luggage
To summarize the key differences between hardside and softside carry-on luggage, consider the following comparison:
| Feature | Hardside Luggage | Softside Luggage |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Superior protection due to rigid polycarbonate shell | Less protective due to fabric exterior |
| Flexibility | Limited flexibility | Highly flexible and expandable |
| Weather Resistance | Resistant to weather conditions | May absorb water in inclement weather |
| Weight | Generally heavier | Generally lighter |
| Organization | Fewer external pockets | More external pockets for quick access |
Ultimately, the decision between hardside and softside carry-on luggage comes down to personal preference and specific travel needs. By considering the pros and cons of each type, travelers can make an informed decision that suits their style.
Understanding Airline Carry-On Size Requirements
To avoid any issues during your flight, it’s essential to understand the carry-on size limits. Airlines have specific requirements for the dimensions of carry-on luggage to ensure that it fits in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
The standard carry-on bag size limit for flights on all aircraft types is typically 22” x 14” x 9”. These dimensions include the wheels and handles, so be sure to measure your bag carefully before you fly.
Standard Domestic Airline Dimensions
Most domestic airlines follow the standard carry-on size requirements, which limit dimensions to 22″ x 14″ x 9″ including wheels and handles. However, specific measurements may vary slightly between carriers.
- Standard domestic airline carry-on size requirements typically limit dimensions to 22″ x 14″ x 9″.
- Understanding that dimensions include all parts of the bag is crucial when measuring your luggage for compliance.
- Many airports now have sizer boxes at check-in and gate areas to verify your bag meets the required dimensions.
| Airline | Carry-On Dimensions |
|---|---|
| Domestic Airlines | 22″ x 14″ x 9″ |
| Some International Airlines | 21″ x 13″ x 9″ |
International Airline Considerations
International airlines often have more restrictive size limits than domestic carriers. For example, some European and Asian airlines allow carry-on bags no larger than 21″ x 13″ x 9″. Budget airlines tend to enforce size restrictions more strictly and may charge substantial fees for oversized carry-on bags that need to be gate-checked.
When purchasing carry-on luggage, it’s wise to choose a bag that falls slightly under the maximum allowable dimensions to account for overpacking or airline variations. For frequent international travelers, investing in a slightly smaller carry-on that meets global standards can prevent unexpected issues at foreign airports.
Key Features to Look for in Quality Carry-On Luggage
Quality carry-on luggage is defined by a combination of essential features that enhance your travel. When selecting a carry-on bag, it’s crucial to consider several factors that impact your overall travel experience.
Weight and Maneuverability
The weight of your carry-on luggage is a critical factor, as it affects not only the overall weight of your belongings but also how easily you can maneuver through the airport. Lighter luggage allows for more packing capacity without exceeding airline weight restrictions. Typically, the best carry-on options weigh between 4.5 and 8 pounds empty. Spinner wheels, with their four multidirectional wheels, offer superior maneuverability compared to traditional two-wheel designs, making it easier to navigate through crowded terminals.
Organization and Compartments
A well-organized carry-on bag can make a significant difference in your travel experience. Look for luggage with multiple compartments, including compression straps, mesh dividers, and dedicated pockets for electronics or toiletries. External pockets provide convenient access to travel documents, electronic devices, or other items you need to retrieve quickly. This level of organization helps keep your belongings tidy and easily accessible.
Durability and Materials
The durability of your carry-on luggage is directly related to the materials used in its construction. Ballistic nylon for softside luggage and polycarbonate for hardside options are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear. Additionally, consider the water resistance of the luggage, as this can protect your belongings from unexpected weather conditions. The quality of the telescoping handle and the sturdiness of the wheels also contribute to the overall durability of the luggage.
When choosing carry-on luggage, it’s also worth considering features like expandability, which allows for flexibility in packing capacity. By focusing on these key features, you can find a carry-on bag that meets your travel needs and enhances your overall travel experience.
Best Overall: Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner
In our extensive testing, the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner emerged as the clear winner, offering unparalleled performance and convenience. This carry-on luggage has consistently outperformed its competitors, making it our top recommendation for travelers.
Why We Love It
The Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner is a hardside luggage that boasts a flexible yet strong polycarbonate shell, capable of absorbing impact without denting. Its dimensions of 23 x 15 x 10 inches provide ample packing space while remaining lightweight at just 6.5 pounds. We’ve tested this bag multiple times, and its capacity has always impressed us, offering enough room for trips up to a week.
The expandable zipper is another feature we appreciate, as it provides an extra inch of depth when needed, perfect for accommodating souvenirs or shopping purchases on your return journey. The four dual spinner wheels offer smooth, 360-degree maneuverability, making it easy to navigate through airport terminals and city streets.
What to Consider
While the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner excels in many areas, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The luggage is made from a durable polycarbonate shell, but like any hardside suitcase, it’s not entirely immune to scratches and dings. However, its overall durability and performance make it a worthwhile investment.
Key Features and Specifications
The Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner features:
- A hardside design with a polycarbonate shell for impact resistance.
- Dimensions: 23 x 15 x 10 inches, expandable by 1 inch.
- Weight: 6.5 pounds, making it lightweight and easy to handle.
- Four dual wheels for smooth, 360-degree maneuverability.
- Internal organization features, including X-shaped compression straps and a full-zip divider panel.
- A telescoping handle that adjusts to multiple heights for comfortable use.
After ‘ve tested this bag over several years, it’s proven its durability with only minor cosmetic scratches. The Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner is a reliable choice for travelers seeking a high-quality luggage that meets their needs.
Best Premium Option: Tumi Alpha Dual Access Carry-on
With its sophisticated design and advanced features, the Tumi Alpha Dual Access Carry-on is ideal for discerning travelers. This premium luggage offers a range of benefits that make it stand out from other carry-on options.
Why We Love It
The Tumi Alpha Dual Access Carry-on represents the pinnacle of premium luggage design, offering sophisticated organization features and exceptional durability for frequent travelers. Its standout dual-access design includes a front-loading compartment that allows you to retrieve essential items without opening the entire suitcase, perfect for grabbing in-flight necessities.
Business travelers will appreciate the removable garment bag that keeps suits and formal attire wrinkle-free, making this an ideal companion for professional trips and destination weddings.
What to Consider
While the Tumi Alpha Dual Access Carry-on is a top-notch luggage option, it’s worth noting that it comes with a few drawbacks. At 10.7 pounds, it’s heavier than some competitors, which may be a consideration for travelers looking to minimize their luggage weight.
Additionally, the lack of open packing space may be a limitation for some users.
Key Features and Specifications
The Tumi Alpha Dual Access Carry-on boasts an array of impressive features, including:
- A 35-liter capacity that can be expanded by an additional 2 inches when needed.
- Four dual spinner wheels engineered with sealed bearings for whisper-quiet, effortless maneuverability.
- A dedicated 13-inch laptop sleeve for safe and convenient storage.
- A USB port that connects to your own power bank for on-the-go charging.
- Constructed from ballistic nylon with reinforced corners for military-grade durability.
With its premium materials and exceptional craftsmanship, the Tumi Alpha Dual Access Carry-on is a worthwhile investment for travelers seeking high-quality luggage.
Best for Expandability: Away The Carry-On Flex
For travelers who can’t resist packing a little extra, Away’s The Carry-On Flex is the perfect companion. This luggage stands out for its exceptional expandability, offering an impressive 2.25 inches of additional packing space, more than most expandable carry-ons on the market.
Why We Love It
The Carry-On Flex is designed with the overpacker in mind. Its innovative design increases the capacity from 39.8 liters to 44.6 liters when expanded, providing nearly 12% more packing space for souvenirs or last-minute additions. The hardside polycarbonate shell offers excellent protection for belongings while remaining lightweight at just 7.9 pounds, making it easy to lift into overhead bins.
Measuring 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches in its unexpanded state, this bag meets most domestic airline carry-on requirements while maximizing available packing volume. The interior organization features include a compression system on one side and a mesh zippered compartment on the other, helping to maximize efficiency even when fully packed.
What to Consider
While the Away The Carry-On Flex offers exceptional expandability and durability, it’s worth noting that the expandable feature may add some bulk when fully expanded. However, the benefits of having extra packing space often outweigh this minor inconvenience.
Key Features and Specifications
The Away The Carry-On Flex features 4 dual spinner wheels that glide smoothly across various surfaces, maintaining excellent maneuverability even when the luggage is expanded to full capacity. The sleek, minimalist design is available in a range of sophisticated colors that resist showing scuffs and scratches, maintaining a polished appearance trip after trip.
Additional features include Away’s signature ejectable battery option (sold separately), which can be added to power devices on the go, with easy removal to comply with airline regulations. With its expandable design and robust construction, the Away The Carry-On Flex is an excellent choice for travelers seeking flexibility and reliability.
Best Budget-Friendly: Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner
The Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner offers exceptional value for its price, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers. After testing this luggage in our lab, we’re convinced that it’s one of the best budget-friendly options available on Amazon.
Why We Love It
This affordable suitcase boasts several features that are typically found in more expensive models. For instance, it has an expandable design, allowing you to pack more items for your return journey. The hardside ABS shell provides excellent protection for your belongings while keeping the overall weight to a manageable 6.8 pounds.
The interior is well-organized with an X-shaped compression strap and a full-zip mesh divider, making it easy to store your clothes and other essentials. Additionally, the bag has four “feet” on one side, allowing it to stand upright on an airport scale or in a car trunk.
What to Consider
While the Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner is an excellent value, there are a few things to keep in mind. The telescoping handle can be a bit wobbly, although it does adjust to three different heights to accommodate travelers of varying statures. Furthermore, the wheels are smooth and provide 360-degree maneuverability, but may not be as durable as those found on more expensive models.
Key Features and Specifications
The Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner has a number of impressive features, including:
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 14.8 x 10 inches
- Capacity: 34 liters
- Material: Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)
- Expandable by 2 inches
- Weight: 6.8 pounds
- Four dual spinner wheels for smooth maneuverability
Overall, the Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner is an excellent choice for travelers who want a reliable and affordable luggage option. With its expandable design, smooth wheels, and durable construction, this suitcase is sure to meet your travel needs.
Best Design: Dagne Dover Seattle Carry-on
Dagne Dover’s Seattle Carry-on has set a new standard in luggage design, combining elegance with practicality. This stylish bag has captured the attention of travelers and critics alike with its modern aesthetic and robust construction.
Why We Love It
The Dagne Dover Seattle Carry-on revolutionizes softside luggage design with its sleek, modern look that combines the durability of softside construction with the structured elegance of hardside suitcase design. Its unique dual-access design allows for both clamshell opening and top-loading capabilities, providing versatile packing options for different travel scenarios.
At 20.5 x 13 x 8.75 inches, this compact carry-on is ideal for short trips, business travel, and international flights with stricter size requirements. The exterior is crafted from recycled 900D polyester that resists stains and water while maintaining a premium look.
What to Consider
While the Dagne Dover Seattle Carry-on excels in design and functionality, it is worth noting that it weighs 9.13 weight pounds, making it slightly heavier than some competitors. However, the premium materials, sophisticated design, and exceptional organization features justify the additional weight.
Key Features and Specifications
The Dagne Dover Seattle Carry-on features four dual spinner wheels with sealed bearings, providing exceptionally smooth, quiet rolling across various surfaces. Tech-friendly features include a dedicated 13-inch laptop sleeve and thoughtfully designed organizational pockets for electronics and travel essentials.
The innovative front pocket system includes a U-shaped zippered compartment that opens fully for easy access to contents without digging through the main compartment. With a 33-liter capacity, this bag is perfect for short getaways and business trips.
Most Durable: Samsonite Proxis Global Carry-on Spinner
For travelers seeking a luggage companion that can withstand the rigors of frequent flying, the Samsonite Proxis Global Carry-on Spinner stands out as a paragon of durability. This hardside carry-on luggage has been literally tested in the most extreme conditions, being dropped from 130,000 feet, and has proven its resilience.
The Samsonite Proxis Global Carry-on Spinner is not only durable but also remarkably lightweight, weighing just 4.7 pounds. This is achieved through the use of Samsonite’s revolutionary Roxkin material, which provides exceptional impact resistance while being incredibly light.
Why We Love It
This carry-on luggage boasts several features that make it stand out. Its four dual spinner wheels ensure smooth and quiet rolling, even when fully packed. The minimalist interior design maximizes packing space without bulky organizational features, allowing travelers to pack efficiently.
The bag’s dimensions (22 x 14 x 9 inches) meet standard carry-on requirements for most airlines, and its 0.5-inch expansion capability provides flexibility for return journeys. With the ability to pack five days worth of clothing, this luggage is ideal for both short and medium-length trips.
What to Consider
While the Samsonite Proxis Global Carry-on Spinner is an exceptional piece of luggage, its premium price point may be a consideration for some travelers. However, the durability and lightweight construction make it an investment piece that will outlast multiple cheaper alternatives.
Key Features and Specifications
The Samsonite Proxis Global Carry-on Spinner features:
- Roxkin material for exceptional durability and impact resistance
- Four dual spinner wheels for smooth rolling
- Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
- Weight: 4.7 pounds
- 0.5-inch expansion capability
- Minimalist interior design for maximum packing space
This luggage is perfect for travelers who value durability and are willing to invest in a high-quality carry-on that will last for years to come.
Most Spacious: July Carry-on Max
The July Carry-on Max is a game-changer for travelers who need a spacious bag without the hassle of checking luggage. Sometimes, a diminutive carry-on just won’t do, especially for longer trips. In these instances, we’d recommend something like the July Carry-on Max. It has a 50-liter capacity that jumps to 62 liters when fully expanded — the largest carry-on we’ve ever tested.
Why We Love It
The July Carry-on Max offers an extraordinary 50-liter capacity that expands to an impressive 62 liters, making it the most spacious luggage we’ve tested. This generous capacity allows for packing enough clothing and essentials for trips of 7-10 days, eliminating the need for checked luggage on longer journeys. The innovative Y-strap compression straps system helps maximize packing efficiency by securing contents firmly in place while minimizing wrinkles.
Despite its spaciousness, the bag weighs a reasonable 8 pounds when empty, striking a good balance between capacity and manageable weight. July’s signature adjustable telescoping handle offers 20 different height positions, accommodating travelers of all heights for comfortable maneuvering. The polycarbonate shell provides excellent protection for belongings while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic available in a range of sophisticated colors.
What to Consider
While the maximum dimensions push the limits of airline carry-on requirements, the suitcase can be used unexpanded to meet standard size restrictions when needed. However, we noticed that it became a little cumbersome to maneuver around tight corners the more we packed it, and because of its size, you may be forced to gate-check it at the airport. The wheels are generally smooth, but the added bulk can make navigation challenging.
Key Features and Specifications
The July Carry-on Max is designed with the traveler in mind, offering an expandable feature that significantly increases packing space. Key features include:
- 50-liter capacity expandable to 62 liters
- Y-strap compression system for efficient packing
- Adjustable telescoping handle with 20 height positions
- Polycarbonate shell for durability and style
- Smooth-rolling wheels for easy maneuverability
This bag is ideal for winter travel when bulkier clothing items require more packing space, or for longer trips where laundry facilities may be limited.
Best Polycarbonate Option: Away The Carry-On
Away The Carry-On has established itself as a gold standard in polycarbonate luggage, offering a blend of style, durability, and functionality. This carry-on luggage is designed to meet the needs of modern travelers who value both form and function.
Why We Love It
The Away The Carry-On stands out for its high-quality components, including YKK zippers, smooth-running wheels, and a well-braced handle. Its polycarbonate shell is both strong and flexible, capable of withstanding the rigors of travel with minimal scratching.
Exceptional Durability: After seven years of testing, this luggage has shown remarkable durability, outperforming many other polycarbonate options.
Key Features: The Away The Carry-On features a premium German polycarbonate shell, 360-degree spinner wheels, and a compression system that maximizes packing space.
What to Consider
While the Away The Carry-On excels in many areas, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The polycarbonate shell, although durable, may show scratches over time.
Additionally, the luggage’s expandable feature, while useful, may not be necessary for all travelers.
Key Features and Specifications
The Away The Carry-On boasts several key features that make it an excellent choice for travelers. These include:
- A strong and flexible polycarbonate shell that provides excellent protection for belongings.
- High-end components such as YKK zippers and Japanese Hinomoto wheels for smooth operation.
- A compression system that helps minimize wrinkles in clothing and maximize packing space.
- An optional ejectable battery (sold separately) for charging devices on the go.
- A lifetime limited warranty that covers functional damage to the suitcase.
With its sleek design, durable construction, and functional features, the Away The Carry-On is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a reliable polycarbonate luggage option.
Best Lightweight Option: Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner
For travelers seeking to minimize their load without sacrificing capacity, the Travelpro Maxlite5 21″ Carry-On Spinner stands out as an exemplary choice. This carry-on spinner is engineered to be ultra-lightweight, making it an ideal option for those who struggle with heavy luggage.
Why We Love It
The Travelpro Maxlite5 21″ Carry-On Spinner weighs just 5.4 pounds, making it a featherlight bag that doesn’t compromise on durability. Its lightweight design allows travelers to pack more without exceeding airline weight restrictions. The wheels on this suitcase are 360-degree spinners, ensuring smooth maneuverability even when fully packed.
The dimensions of this carry-on spinner are 21″ x 14″ x 9″, meeting most airline carry-on requirements. It’s designed to pack five days worth of clothing and essentials, making it perfect for short to medium trips.
What to Consider
While the Travelpro Maxlite5 is incredibly lightweight, it’s essential to consider its warranty, which, although good, is not as strong as some other top picks. Additionally, the bag‘s exterior, made from polyester fabric with a water and stain-resistant coating, is durable but may show signs of wear over time.
Key Features and Specifications
The Travelpro Maxlite5 21″ Carry-On Spinner boasts several key features that enhance its usability. The luggage includes a contoured, telescoping handle with ergonomic grips, reducing strain during extended use. Interior organization is facilitated by a full-length interior lid pocket, a side accessory pocket, and adjustable hold-down straps to keep contents secure.
Measuring 21 inches in height, this suitcase is designed to fit in most overhead bins. The four wheels provide excellent mobility, and the reinforced corner guards and skid guards add to its durability, protecting it from damage during travel.
Best for Business Travel: Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On
For business travelers seeking a reliable and feature-rich luggage solution, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On stands out. Every detail of this bag is crafted to meet the highest standards, making it an ideal choice for frequent flyers.
Why We Love It
The Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On represents the gold standard for business travelers, combining sophisticated design with innovative functionality. The patented CX expansion-compression system allows the bag to expand for packing and then compress back to standard carry-on dimensions, increasing packing capacity by up to 25%. This feature is particularly useful for business travelers who need to pack multiple outfits.
Business travelers will appreciate the built-in garment folder that keeps suits, dress shirts, and formal attire wrinkle-free during transit, eliminating the need for a separate removable garment bag. The aircraft-grade aluminum telescoping handle system is positioned on the outside of the bag to maximize interior packing space and minimize wrinkles.
What to Consider
While the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On offers numerous benefits, there are a few factors to consider. The bag is made from ballistic nylon with reinforced corners, offering exceptional durability. However, this material may be heavier than some travelers prefer. Additionally, the CX expansion-compression system, while highly effective, may require some practice to use efficiently.
Key Features and Specifications
The Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On features four dual spinner wheels with sealed bearings, providing whisper-quiet, effortless maneuverability through busy terminals and hotel lobbies. The thoughtful organization system includes multiple interior and exterior pockets designed specifically for business essentials like documents, electronics, and accessories.
Briggs & Riley’s industry-leading “Simple as That” lifetime warranty covers all functional aspects of the luggage, including airline damage, providing unmatched peace of mind for frequent travelers. With its exceptional quality and innovative features, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On is a top choice for business travelers.
Packing Tips for Maximizing Your Carry-On Luggage Space
Maximizing your carry-on luggage space is an art that can be mastered with a few simple techniques. Efficient packing not only helps you avoid checking a bag but also reduces travel stress.
One effective method is to roll your clothes instead of folding them. This technique can significantly increase your packing space while reducing wrinkles, especially for items like t-shirts, jeans, and casual wear. Additionally, using compression packing cubes can be a game-changer. These cubes allow you to organize your clothing by category and compress them to reduce their volume by up to 30%.
- Utilize every inch of your suitcase by stuffing socks and underwear inside your shoes. This trick not only saves space but also helps maintain the shape of your shoes during transit.
- When using compression straps inside your bag, ensure they’re pulled tight across the widest part of your packed items to maximize their effectiveness.
- Pack heavier items at the bottom of your wheeled luggage (near the wheels) to improve stability and prevent your bag from tipping over.
- Consider wearing your bulkiest items (like jackets, boots, or sweaters) on the plane to free up significant space in your carry-on luggage.
- Place an identification tag inside your bag in addition to the exterior tag to ensure your bag can be identified and returned if it’s misplaced.
- Follow the “rule of three” for efficient packing: limit yourself to three tops, three bottoms, and three pairs of shoes that can be mixed and matched for maximum outfit combinations.
By implementing these strategies, you can efficiently pack your carry-on luggage and enjoy a more organized and stress-free travel experience.
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Carry-On Luggage for Your Travel Style
The perfect carry-on bag can make all the difference in your travel experience, offering convenience, comfort, and reliability. As you’ve seen from our comprehensive guide, the best carry-on luggage is not just about picking the most popular or expensive option; it’s about understanding your personal travel style, frequency, and specific needs.
For frequent business travelers, investing in premium luggage options like the Briggs & Riley Baseline or Tumi Alpha makes practical sense, thanks to their wrinkle-reducing features and professional aesthetics. On the other hand, budget-conscious travelers can find exceptional value in options like the Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner, which delivers core functionality without unnecessary premium features.
When selecting luggage, consider your physical capabilities. Lightweight options like the Travelpro Maxlite5 can make a significant difference for travelers who struggle with heavier bags. Your typical trip duration should also influence your choice; maximizing capacity with expandable options like the Away Flex or July Carry-on Max works well for longer journeys.
Remember, the best carry-on luggage is one that becomes a reliable travel companion through multiple trips. Prioritize durability and warranty coverage in your decision. Always verify your preferred airlines’ specific carry-on luggage size requirements before purchasing, as dimensions can vary slightly between carriers, particularly on international routes.
Regardless of which bag you choose, implementing smart packing strategies will help you maximize space and ensure you have everything you need for a stress-free journey. With the right suitcase and a little planning, you’ll be ready to take on your next trip with confidence, enjoying the convenience of smooth-rolling wheels and the peace of mind that comes with having the best carry-on for your needs.
By considering these factors and choosing a carry-on luggage that fits your style, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a more streamlined and enjoyable travel experience, with your trusty inside bag or luggage by your side.