Tested: The Best Carry-On Suitcases for Lighter Travel

When you want to pick a piece of equipment to tote around, you can just grab yourself a decent duffel or a natty knapsack, but that means throwing your back all out of alignment as you lug it around like a papoose. Don’t fall into that trap. Instead, keep your cool and let your suitcase do the walking by choosing something that’s small enough to be modular, offers smooth rolling wheels for easy maneuvering, and has stiff sides that can take abuse. To help you out, we’ve tested the best carry-on suitcases for your next trip.

How We Tested

For this carry-on guide, we found the best way to test out our suitcases was to actually use them. Before getting hands-on, however, we scoured the space to check out bags from some of our favorite brands and industry staples (like Rimowa or Away). We looked at dimensions, capacity, materials, extra features, and, of course, visual aesthetic. From there, we tested these suitcases for function while taking in their looks. We looked at things such as how the zippers behaved, how practical the organizational features were, and how easily the telescopic handles functioned. All of our findings are detailed below.

What to Look for in a Carry-On Bag

Aesthetic: We can pretend that capacity, materials, and bonus features are the most important reasons why we pick a suitcase. But the reality is, we don’t want to look goofy rolling through an airport with a less-than-attractive suitcase. As such, visual aesthetic is an important factor to consider when buying a carry-on.

Materials: When looking for a new carry-on bag, you’ll have to first figure out if you want a hard-sided or soft-sided bag. Hard-sided options are typically made of either polycarbonate or aluminum and can protect your goods from damage much better than their soft-sided counterparts. On the other hand, a bag made of softer materials such as nylon or polyester can be lighter in weight and just as durable. However, they won’t protect more breakable items, like laptops, as well.

Wheels: The options here are four-wheel bags or two-wheel bags. For many people who are fine dragging their luggage behind them, a two-wheel unit will do just fine and eliminate the extra weight of two additional wheels. However, if you’re looking for some decreased labor in the terminal, a four-wheel bag may be a better option. Although, the wheels themselves in these units can be a bit more finicky.

Carrying Capacity: The capacity inside your carry-on bag will be up to your own personal requirements. If you’re a light packer, you may only need something as small as a tote. However, if you’re looking to supplement or even supplant a larger checked bag, you may want to go with a larger carry-on bag like the ones in this guide. As stated above, every airline has different size standards, and the internal capacity will be contingent on the outer dimensions.

Weight: The weight of your bag will be an important factor when it comes to all the lifting required of having a carry-on (into the car, onto the TSA security belt, into the overhead bins). And remember, the dry weight of these bags will only get heavier when you put items inside.

Organization: Organization options are key for many travelers, especially businessmen and those carrying smaller items like medicines, writing utensils, and tech accessories. Some bags even have dividers for clothing and laundry, so make sure you know what you want before making your purchase.

Level8 Road Runner Pro Carry On

Best for the Commuter: Many of you will only want a carry-on bag for bringing along your laptop and some key paperwork. However, many wheeled suitcases won’t be able to accommodate your needs. That’s where Level8’s Road Runner Pro Carry On steps in. Built with an aerospace-grade Bayer Makrolon hard shell, the bag is also equipped with a separated front pocket that’s padded to hold your laptop up to 15.6”. Instead of zippering shut, the compartment pops open with a push. Although the power bank is sold separately, the suitcase has dedicated space to hold one and a USB port for charging on the go. Weighing 9.3lbs and holding 35L of your most essential items, the Road Runner Pro is water-resistant and rolls effortlessly on its quiet 360-degree wheels.

The Good

The main selling point of the Level8 Road Runner Pro is the front laptop/tech compartment. It’s a highly useful feature that allows you to use the bag for more than one thing, and without needing to open the main compartment. This section has a laptop sleeve, a couple of organization pouches, and even a USB-A charging cable that’s powered by the included power bank. I should also note that this front compartment is connected to the same combination lock as the main zippered compartment, meaning that you can keep your stuff safe here as well.

As for the main compartment, I loved how it was organized. The weight distribution of the suitcase (more on this below) allows you to open it up when it’s standing, which is pretty awesome. Also, the way the interior is set up prevents anything from falling out and gives you your zipper options vertically instead of horizontally. This bag is also the most affordable here at just over $200, making it an incredible bargain considering all you get. Also, you’ll see that most of its flaws are made up for with a unique benefit that most other carry-ons don’t have.

The Not So Good

One thing worth noting on the Level8 is its duo of top buttons. While one releases the zipper, the other opens the front compartment. The only issue is that these two buttons look the exact same and you run the risk of accidentally popping open the laptop compartment. Also, these buttons are way too easy to push. A couple of times, one of these buttons got pushed incidentally when I didn’t want it to. I should also point out that this compartment cannot be accessed when the bag is lying down on its side. Likewise, the base could use an additional handle; while the bag is just 9.3lbs, it only holds 35L and is a bit difficult to lift overhead at times.

The zippers on the main compartment are the stiffest of any I encountered during my tests, although they weren’t terrible. Also, unlike other rolling carry-ons, which can go from upright to tilted/rolling seamlessly, the Level8 requires a bit of a counterforce with your foot at the base of the suitcase in order for it to transition into a rolling position. However, some might see this as a positive thing, since it’s indicative of the suitcase’s balance and resistance to tipping over. But if you’re in a rush, and don’t have the extra leverage, this might be annoying.

Verdict: One of the most unique options on this guide, the Level8 Road Runner Pro is also the most affordable carry-on we tested. We loved the front laptop/tech compartment that pops open, although it won’t open lying down. Also, the weight distribution might prevent it from rolling as easily but also offers a setup that’s perfect for accessing the interior from a standing position. Every one of the bag’s flaws is made up for with a cool benefit, making this carry-on one of our favorites.

Away The Carry-On

Best Overall: If you’re looking for the best carry-on for the price, check out Away’s eponymous option. Where other brands do both soft- and hard-sided luggage, the New York-based outfit pretty much just does the latter — and does it really well at that. The Carry-On, as it’s so aptly called, is its smallest bag, capable of holding 39.8L of clothing, accessories, or anything else you want to take onboard with you. The outside is an impact-resistant polycarbonate shell with a gloss that comes in a variety of attractive colors with polyester interiors and luggage tags to match. The inside was recently updated with even more storage pockets to help you organize and an equipped water-resistant laundry bag. If you want something a bit larger, check out Away’s The Carry-On Flex or The Bigger Carry-On as well.

The Good

The organization on the Away Carry-On is top-notch, from the variety of zippered mesh pockets to the nifty divider that expands and contracts automatically based on how full you have it. My favorite feature, however, is the hidden compartment in the front lid. I know this was there and it still took me a couple of minutes to find it. Essentially, the entire inside of the lid can be optimized for storing things you don’t want others to find: watches, jewelry, a puppy (just kidding). There’s also some slight expandability due to the design of the zipper with the leather hinge in back. The wheels spin effortlessly as expected and glide without any issue.

Visually, the Away is one of my favorites, especially considering the price. There are lots of color options –– 13 at the time of this writing –– and they look absolutely mature despite being playful at times. You can opt for the classic black but you can go as bold as orange or green. Away even has a few limited-edition colors from time to time. The olive green we tested paired well with the slight texturing on the shell. This bag is also among the most lightweight of the bunch at just 7.5lbs. And if that didn’t make it easy enough to lift overhead, the extra built-in handle underneath certainly helped.

The Not So Good

Honestly, there’s not much to complain about with the Away Carry-On. My one issue is with the telescopic handle, which gave me some issues with setting its height. At one point, I wanted an in-between height that wasn’t all the way up or all the way down, and I was struggling to keep it there.

Verdict: When balancing storage, weight, and organization options, Away’s The Carry-On is your best bet. It has hidden compartments, lots of zippered compartments, and cleverly-designed dividers. There are tons of colors to choose from as well. Our only issue was with the telescopic handle, which had some adjustment problems from time to time. However, at just 7.5lbs (the lightest on this list) and a sub-$300 price tag, you can’t go wrong here.

July Carry-On

Best for Maximizing Space: If you’re the type of person who wants to utilize every last square inch of your carry-on capacity, just get the July Carry-On, a 42-liter bag that’s designed for maximizing space. Made to look sleek while providing durability, the 7.4-pound hard-sided suitcase is constructed with a German polycarbonate shell and equipped with reinforced bumpers and tough YKK zippers. The nylon lining inside is water-resistant and stain-proof (as is the included laundry bag) and the nylon straps and hinge are finished with a luxe leather. You also get four USB charging options, including USB-C, micro-USB, USB-A, and fast-charging USB-A ports.

The Good

A lot of carry-on suitcases maximize their space well, but not all of them can hold 42L of stuff while fitting within most airline compliance standards. This spacious bag from July might not have tons of organization options but it certainly allows you to stuff as much as possible into its shell, including a zippered top lid and a hidden compartment behind the base divider. Like the Away above, the divider expands and contracts “automatically” depending how much you fill up the space behind it. However, I appreciated that it lifted on the short end, providing better access underneath it. This also only requires there to be one strap instead of two, which makes removing the divider entirely all the easier.

I’m the kind of guy who never seems to be satisfied with the two or three handle height choices built into most suitcases, so I absolutely loved the micro-adjustable handle on the July Carry-On, with seemingly endless options. With ten color options currently available, the suitcase can add some serious style to your airport ensemble. We chose the bag initially because we loved how it looked and then continued to be infatuated with its features after that.

The Not So Good

As much as I loved the micro-adjustable handle, the button is a bit finicky when locking into the lowest height, which was a disappointment considering how great it was otherwise. I also wished there were a grab handle on the bottom, which would have made lifting this bag into overhead compartments a lot easier.

Also, as I mentioned, there aren’t as many organization pockets in this bag compared to, say, the Away, but you still have plenty of space to store your stuff with several divided sections.

Verdict: More divider-focused than organization-focused, the July Carry-On is a superb choice that maximizes every square inch of its 42-liter capacity, and then some. Available in an array of attractive colors, it features a micro-adjusting handle and sports a quartet of USB charging ports. We also loved the 7.4-pound weight, although would’ve added a bottom handle to help lift this lightweight bag overhead. However, if you’re looking to optimize space with exterior size and weight, this is your best bet.

Aer Carry-On

Best Minimalist: Aer is one of our favorite backpack brands around and this year, the San Francisco-based company debuted its first-ever carry-on suitcase. However, upon release, it was discovered that the 22.7″ x 15″ x 9″ bag was just a tad too big for compliance on certain airlines. However, if you’re flying on an airline that allows for larger carry-ons (e.g., Southwest), you’ll surely be satisfied with this max option. Also, Aer did come out with the Carry-On Small shortly after, but this sold out instantly. Aer said that these won’t be available until the end of the year so we got hands-on with the non-Small version. There are currently five color options but we used the black variant.

The Good

Amidst a space crowded with minimalist luggage, Aer aimed to make the minimalist carry-on to end them all. And we have to say, they certainly succeeded. There are still the brand’s design hallmarks and some beautifully faceted edges but this bag is about as sleek as they come. However, the inside of the suitcase shines just as well. Redolent of the brand’s expertise in the backpack field, the interior has a thoughtful design, such as a Fidlock clasp for the bottom divider, a layered zipper pocket setup for organization, and a light-colored fabric so you can spot what you need quicker (clothing often blends against darker fabrics).

Despite the “illegal” size of the bag on most airlines, its 48-liter interior capacity is huge. So if you’re able to bring this along with you, you’ll get about 6L more than the second-largest bag here (aside from the expandable Briggs & Riley, which technically fails compliance at the expanded 48L), and without adding any weight. This thing is still just 8.4lbs!

I also loved the adjustable handle here, which features nubs for each of the four settings. This prevents any obfuscation as to where you’re handle is set and lets you remember your preferred height next time around, which is a really nice touch.

The Not So Good

Honestly, there isn’t much to complain about with the Aer Carry-On. It’s comparable to other like-priced bags but has enough unique touches to set it apart from the pack. Yes, there is the size issue but it’s visually close enough to other carry-ons that you might not run into any issues on a flight. On the other hand, there’s always a chance that you could. In terms of lifting this thing overhead, I do wish there were a bottom handle of some sort.

Verdict: The most capacious carry-on we tested, the Aer suitcase might be technically above compliance for most airlines but offers up tons of space and optimized organization. Designed with a backpack mindset, the carry-on has plenty of organization pockets and a pair of hidden compartments, as well as a Fidlock buckle for the bottom divider. Not to mention, we loved the minimalist aesthetic. There are enough unique features to set this apart from other similar bags in a crowded market, and for a similar price.

Carl Friedrik The Carry-On

Best Upgrade: With some natural fluctuation in style, modern-day carry-ons can start to look alike. We can’t blame brands for striking inspiration from Rimowa’s iconic aluminum-shelled luggage but still, we’d like to see some variety in that regard. Luckily, we have Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On, which sports just enough original touches to stand out among the pack without being garish. Sporting a ridged design a la Rimowa but with a German-designed Makrolon polycarbonate material, it comes in three shell colors with Vachetta leather detailing in four accent colors, together making up one heck of a bag with its own individuality.

The Good

The Carl Friedrik Carry-On is yet another suitcase that we fell in love with looks-wise before even exploring its cool features. This suitcase is a sight to behold and one of the most unique options you’ll come across from an aesthetic point of view. The leather trim is totally superfluous but also makes you wish more bags had this. The chrome-like finish gives the impression that this thing is metallic but the shell is in fact polycarbonate. I love the micro-adjustable telescopic handle on this suitcase, which I’ve only seen as a feature on one other bag here (the July Carry-On). But this really lets you find the perfect height for rolling the bag.

Like the Level8 carry-on, the Carl Friedrik suitcase also has a front compartment for your laptop. But while the closure is zippered shut rather than an auto push button, the compartment itself is even more enhanced with a few more organization pockets, including a couple of pen slots, and a Velcro-snap button attachment on the side that allows you to open the flap fully for total access. The interior features a strap-down compartment in the upper lid and a simple buckle divider in the lower lid. The hidden compartment in the upper lid was very difficult to find, which was a good thing for anyone trying to hide valuables. I also liked the snap closure in favor of the zipper for the main compartment, which manages to lock down the lid while adding a touch of class to the bag.

The Not So Good

At just over $500, the Carl Friedrik is on the lower end of the luxury bag options but still rather affordable considering its appearance and features. However, I wasn’t a huge fan of the interior of the main compartment. It’s rather spacious, sure, but also lacks the kind of secure organization that other bags have. For instance, the top lid merely uses a cross buckle system for keeping your clothes inside, while the opposite side has one of those nifty divider sections that expands and contracts automatically. However, there are no zippered compartments for larger clothes. You do have the smaller ones for socks, glasses, watches, etc., but nothing for your main pieces.

Like the Aer Carry-On, the Carl Friedrik is slightly larger than the 22-inch max height of most airlines. And although it looks similar to the other bags, it is a bit more noticeably big with its front compartment bulging out a bit. However, you may or may not run into any issues in this regard. I also noticed that despite the quoted 8.6-pound total weight, this suitcase felt heavier than other similarly-sized bags.

Verdict: Among the most attractive carry-ons available with a faux metallic exterior and leather trim, the Carl Friedrik Carry-On might be slightly too large for some airlines but it’s still one of our favorites. While we wish the main compartment held our clothes more securely, but the exterior laptop compartment is superb. We also loved the micro-adjusting handle and the relatively affordable price tag.

Briggs & Riley Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

Best Expandable: The only thing better than a quality carry-on bag is one that can convert into a standard-sized suitcase for longer travel. From one of the leaders in high-end luggage options, Briggs & Riley’s Essential Carry-On Expandable Spinner gives you the option to convert a 37-liter bag into a 48-liter bag for the times when you want to accumulate more during your trip. Even better, the bag expands with a single touch thanks to the patented CX buttons. It also works well if you’re looking for a decent mid-sized bag for car travel without having to purchase an entirely new suitcase. The exterior fabric of the soft-sided bag is ballistic nylon while the inside comes with a garment folder for traveling with suits you don’t want to get wrinkled.

The Good

I’ve truly never seen anything like the Briggs & Riley Essential Carry-On Expandable Spinner. I assumed I knew how the expandability feature would work but I was certainly wrong. It’s far more sophisticated than an extra zipper and fabric. Instead, the deceptively thin bag utilizes a pair of mechanical buttons that you access from the inside, allowing you to extend the walls.

I also love the organization features in this bag. Aside from the front flap in the lid that could serve as a laptop/tablet/book compartment, there are also some smaller zippered pockets on the outside –– my favorite of which being the essential pocket on top designed for quickly storing items during security check-ins. There’s also an orange strip to clearly let you know if it’s left open. Likewise, the main compartment features some truly unique organization options for both smaller and larger items, and everything in between.

Not only is this one of the only bags with a base handle for lifting overhead (which is great considering the heavy weight) but it’s also designed to be totally flat on top, making it great for stacking. Soft-sided bags are traditionally lumpy on top, so this is a thoughtful construction choice.

The Not So Good

A cool thing about the Briggs & Riley Essential is its ability to expand. However, the 11.5-inch max width is way above the max width of pretty much every airline. If you did plan on expanding this, you might need to check your bag. It’s also important to note that this soft-shell bag is the heaviest on this list, as expected. $700 is notably pricey for a suitcase but at least Briggs & Riley justifies the price tag with some extra features in the process.

Verdict: Despite the fact that you might need to check this bag onto the plane once expanded, the Briggs & Riley Essential Carry-On Expandable Spinner is one of the most unique options we tested, with a mechanism that allows you to add extra space to the bag easily. Built with tons of extra pockets, a base handle for lifting overhead, and a flat top for stacking, the carry-on boasts a thoughtful, intuitive design that helps justify the steeper price tag.

Rimowa Original Cabin

Best Aluminum Carry-On: With over 120 years of experience in the luggage world, Rimowa is one of the most revered names for a reason. Sporting the iconic ridged design on the hard-sided shell, the German brand’s Original Cabin bag is constructed with a beautiful high-end anodized aluminum shell on the outside with a polyester interior lining. It may be fairly basic, but you won’t regret making this purchase. Weighing just 9.5lbs, the 34.8-liter suitcase sits atop four wheels with an effortless roll on its cushioned axles, while the telescopic stage-free handle is perfect for any height. Also, Rimowa backs every purchase with a lifetime warranty.

The Good

Sure, rolling through an airport terminal with a Rimowa suitcase is an instant signifier of status but objectively, the Original Cabin just looks amazing. The sleek exterior design turns heads but it’s beautiful enough that you’ll keep pinching yourself that you own it. Likewise, the interior lining feels durable while still appearing classy.

Looks aside, the Original Cabin has a really cool latching system that’s fun to use. It opens into an admittedly straightforward interior. Both sides are identical with their own divider function. They each feature one of those nifty expandable sections. However, here you’ll be treated to a unique take on the divider, with the option to utilize either side thanks to a dual-Velcro system that allows you to lift to the right or lift to the left. This is pretty useful in that it allows you easy access to any part of the suitcase. Also, each divider has a large zippered pocket for socks, underwear, belts, etc. On the outside, you’ll find a surprisingly utilitarian telescopic handle with a micro-adjusting function.

The Not So Good

If you look carefully, the Rimowa Cabin isn’t actually within carry-on compliance size at 21.7″ x 15.8″ x 9.1″. Fortunately, it looks small enough that most airport staff won’t flag you. There’s also a Cabin S, which is technically smaller in width only; its length is still too big. Rimowa actually doesn’t have a carry-on option that technically works on all three dimensions on any major U.S. airline. However, if you’re purchasing a Rimowa bag, chances are, you might be flying business or first class. As such, carry-on size won’t be as big of a deal.

That leads me to my next point: The Rimowa Original Cabin is expensive. This is a near-$1,500 carry-on suitcase. Many of us would likely have to do some explaining if this were to show up on our bank account but for those who can afford it, you’ll be treated to arguably the finest suitcase on the planet. But again, this is expensive. Also, the Original Cabin is a bit heavy and there’s no base handle for lifting, making it rather difficult to put this overhead, compounded more by the slippery shell on the outside.

Verdict: Arguably the most beautiful suitcase around, the Rimowa is striking on the outside but still rather straightforward on the inside, which is quite alright. You’re paying a lot for the status of the suitcase but these carry-ons are aesthetically pleasing regardless. We loved the unique take on the interior divider and the durable yet classy interior lining. This bag also has a micro-adjustable handle for easy gliding. You’ll pay a lot for this but if you have the money, it’s honestly a no-brainer.

Carry-on Suitcase Comparison Chart

How Big Can Your Carry-On Be?

Unfortunately, there’s no hard-and-fast rule for carry-on size, since this depends on your airline and/or country. For U.S. travelers, the average bag allowance is around 14″ x 9″ x 22″, with some slight variation. Make sure you double-check the standards of the airline you’ll be flying with. In terms of weight, most airlines won’t weigh your bags at all, unless, however, you’re paying extra per carry-on.

Carry-On Vs. Checked Bags

If you’re looking to save some time and even money, try to get all your travel gear into your carry-on since you won’t have to wait for baggage claim once you land or even risk the off chance that your bag(s) get lost. However, to do so, you may have to purchase certain items, like toiletries, at your destination.

There are few downsides to carry-on bags versus checked bags. That is, unless you prefer not to worry about keeping track of any luggage at the gate. However, if you want to stow any snacks, books, or your laptop, a carry-on is necessary.

Rolled Bags Vs. Backpacks

Unlike a backpack, rolled carry-ons are a solid option for ease of transport and a lessened burden (you still technically have to lift up a backpack to get it on your back). Also, with a rolled bag you don’t have to worry about adjustment straps and the occasional sweat stain on your back.

Honorable Mentions

Not everyone can afford the most premium carry-ons. However, this Muji Adjustable Handle Hard Shell Suitcase is a cool option with tons of perceived value.

Made with aerospace-grade polycarbonate materials, the Monos Carry-On is billed as virtually unbreakable, even if its appearance looks much more luxe than its price tag. We couldn’t get hands-on with this bag but loved its color options.

Herschel brings its unique design language to the world of luggage with this vintage-inspired Heritage Hardshell Luggage Carry-on.

If you’re into the aluminum look but don’t want to pay $1,500 for the Rimowa Original Cabin, check out the Zero Halliburton International Carry-On Case, which is about $400 more affordable.

For something a bit more funky to add to your travel loadout, check out the Floyd Cabin. Not only can you choose between over ten expressive colorways but this thing rides on red skateboard wheels, making it one of the most visually notable carry-ons around. However, we admit it won’t be for everyone.

Patagonia makes great duffel bags like this Black Hole Wheeled Duffel, although it doesn’t really match up with the spirit of this “best suitcases” guide. However, since some people like duffels as their carry-ons, we figured we’d shout it out down here.

Tested: The Best Travel Backpacks

Looking for a carry-on without wheels? Check out our guide to the best travel backpacks where we got hands-on with each bag.