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Tired of wrestling with a bulky bag that feels like it’s filled with bricks? The right carry-on can change your entire travel game.
It is about more than just a place to put your clothes, it’s about skipping the check-in line and maneuvering through crowded terminals with a sense of calm. The best luggage is lightweight, incredibly durable and organized to perfection.
Ready to find the perfect travel partner? Let’s explore the top picks for 2025.
Top pick
1. Briggs & Riley Essential 22″ Carry On Expandable Spinner
Brand: Briggs & Riley
Manufacturer: Briggs & Riley
Color: Navy
Dimensions: Height: 22.0 inches Width: 9.0 inches Length: 14.0 inches Weight: 10.0 pounds
As someone who has tested dozens of premium carry-ons over the years, the Briggs & Riley Baseline still stands out as the one I’d trust for a lifetime of travel. It’s sleek, incredibly durable, deceptively spacious, fits perfectly in overhead bins and despite years of testing, mine still looks nearly new.
Smooth spinner wheels make moving through airports easy. A self-repairing zipper adds strong durability. Softside material keeps the bag lightweight and flexible. Navy color looks stylish for both men and women.
It’s pricey, no doubt, but absolutely worth it.
Advantages
- Offers extra space with its expandable design for more packing.
- Moves smoothly on all surfaces thanks to durable spinner wheels.
- Fixes zipper problems automatically with its self-repairing feature.
- Lightweight and soft, making travel easier and less tiring.
- Fits in overhead bins, perfect for plane travel convenience.
Our Recommendations
This Briggs & Riley carry-on is very sturdy and easy to roll. The spinner wheels move smoothly in all directions. Its expandable feature gives extra space for souvenirs or clothes. The self-repairing zipper is a smart idea and works well. Navy color looks nice and hides dirt from travel. Perfect size for airplane overhead bins and short trips. Handles feel strong and comfortable to carry. Overall, a reliable suitcase for both men and women.
Best Quality
2. Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage
Brand: Travelpro
Manufacturer: Travelpro International Inc.
Color: Vintage Grey
Dimensions: Height: 23.5 Inches Width: 14.5 Inches Length: 9.0 Inches Weight: 7.72 Pounds
This Travelpro Platinum Elite carry-on offers smooth 8-wheel spinner mobility for easy travel. I love that the softside design can expand, super handy when you inevitably bring a little more than planned. The built-in USB port has saved me more than once when my devices ran low mid-travel. The vintage grey is sleek and timeless, so it looks good for anyone.
Plus, the included suiter keeps my clothes neat and wrinkle-free which makes a huge difference after a long flight. At 21 inches, it’s the perfect size to fit most airline carry-on rules, so I never have to worry at the gate.
Advantages
- Smooth 8-wheel spinner makes moving through airports easy.
- Built-in USB port keeps devices charged on the go.
- Expandable design offers extra space for souvenirs or clothes.
- Suiter section keeps clothes neat and wrinkle-free during travel.
- Durable vintage grey fabric resists wear and looks stylish.
Our Recommendations
I have taken this Travelpro carry-on on a few trips and it’s been so good so far. The 8 spinner wheels make rolling through airports effortless, and the USB port keeps my devices charged when I’m on the move. I love how the expandable section gives extra space without any hassle and the suiter inside keeps my shirts wrinkle-free.
It’s lightweight, durable, and just the right size for most overhead bins. Honestly, if you travel even a little, this carry-on makes the whole experience smoother.
3. Away Carry-On Luggage
Brand: Away
Manufacturer: Away
Color: Navy Blue
Dimensions: Height: 21.7 inches Width: 9.0 inches Length: 14.4 inches Weight: 7.5 pounds
This Away Carry-On Luggage is perfect for quick trips and busy airports. Its lightweight design makes carrying easy and stress-free. Smooth spinner wheels help you move quickly through crowded spaces. The 22-inch size fits most airline rules for carry-on bags. A built-in TSA lock keeps your belongings safe during travel. The navy blue color looks stylish and professional.
Advantages
- Lightweight design makes carrying and lifting easy.
- Spinner wheels allow smooth, 360-degree movement everywhere.
- TSA lock keeps belongings safe during airport checks.
- 22-inch size fits most airline overhead compartments perfectly.
- Durable hardside shell protects items from bumps and drops.
Our Recommendations
Away Carry-On makes travel so much easier. It’s light, the spinner wheels glide smoothly and the TSA lock keeps my belongings safe. Fits perfectly in overhead bins, handles are comfy and the hard shell protects everything inside. Perfect for short trips or business travel: durable, reliable and definitely worth grabbing if you travel often.
4. Monos Carry-On Pro, Blue Haze.
Brand: Monos
Manufacturer: Monos
Color: Blue Haze
Dimensions: Height: 23.0 Inches Width: 9.5 Inches Length: 15.0 Inches Weight: 7.8 pounds
Monos Carry-On Pro in Blue Haze offers a sleek and sturdy design for easy travel. Perfect size for short trips or as a personal item on flights. Smooth wheels and a strong handle make moving through airports simple. Spacious inside with organized compartments keeps your items neat and safe. Durable materials protect your belongings from bumps and scratches. Stylish color adds a fresh look to your travel gear.
Advantages
- Compact size fits easily in overhead airplane compartments.
- Durable materials protect belongings during travel.
- Smooth wheels allow easy movement through airports.
- Multiple compartments keep items organized and accessible.
- Stylish blue haze color stands out on luggage carousels.
Our Recommendations
The Monos Carry-On Pro in Blue Haze fits perfectly in overhead bins. Its compact size makes travel easy and stress-free. Strong zippers and smooth wheels show good quality. Packing is simple with organized compartments inside. The handle feels sturdy and comfortable to hold. Lightweight design helps avoid extra baggage weight. Bright color helps spot the bag quickly at busy airports. A great choice for short trips or business travel. Durable materials keep the suitcase looking new after many uses. Overall, it offers practical features without extra bulk.
5. Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On Luggage
Brand: Samsonite
Manufacturer: Samsonite Corporation
Color: White
Dimensions: Height: 10.0 inches Width: 14.5 inches Length: 19.5 inches Weight: 6.5 pounds
This Samsonite carry-on is lightweight, sturdy and TSA-approved. Its hardshell protects your items, smooth spinner wheels make airport travel easy and the expandable design gives extra space when needed. Perfect for anyone wanting a reliable, stylish suitcase.
Advantages
- Durable hard shell protects belongings from damage.
- Smooth spinner wheels make moving luggage easy.
- TSA-approved lock keeps your items secure.
- Expandable design offers extra packing space when needed.
- Lightweight build helps avoid heavy lifting during travel.
Our Recommendations
I often grab this Samsonite carry-on for short trips. The spinner wheels roll effortlessly, the hard shell keeps my stuff safe and the TSA lock is a lifesaver. Lightweight, expandable and stylish in white; definitely worth picking up if you travel often.
6. RIMOWA Carry-on Luggage
Brand: Rounge cover
Manufacturer: RIMOWA
Color: Clear
Dimensions: Height: 1.2 Inches Width: 15.7 Inches Length: 23.0 Inches Weight: 1.8 pounds
This clear luggage cover fits perfectly on the RIMOWA Hybrid Cabin 883(881), 53. It protects your suitcase from scratches, dirt, and spills. Easy to put on and take off, saving time at the airport. The transparent design keeps your luggage visible while staying safe. Strong and durable material ensures long-lasting use during every trip. Perfect for travelers who want to keep their luggage clean and neat.
Advantages
- Protects your RIMOWA Hybrid Cabin from scratches and dirt.
- Keeps luggage clean during travel and storage times.
- Fits perfectly, ensuring easy use without slipping off.
- Clear design lets you see your suitcase’s original look.
- Lightweight material adds no extra bulk or weight.
Our Recommendations
This clear luggage cover fits my RIMOWA Hybrid Cabin 883 perfectly. It protects well from scratches and dirt. Easy to put on and take off. The material feels strong but light. Keeps my suitcase looking new after many trips. A smart choice for travelers who want extra protection. No worries about damage during airport handling. The cover does not add much weight either. I like how it stays in place during travel. Great value for a small price.
7. July Carry On Essential – 20″ Airline Approved Carry On Luggage
Brand: July
Manufacturer: July
Color: Moss
Dimensions: Height: 8.5 Inches Width: 15.0 Inches Length: 21.5 Inches Weight: 6.6 pounds
This 20″ carry on suitcase fits perfectly in airline overhead bins for easy travel. Its strong polycarbonate shell protects your belongings from bumps. Smooth spinner wheels let you move quickly through airports without effort. A built-in TSA lock keeps your items safe during trips. Designed for both men and women, it combines style with practical features. Moss color adds a fresh, modern touch to your travel gear.
Advantages
- Durable polycarbonate shell protects belongings from damage.
- Smooth spinner wheels make moving through airports easy.
- TSA lock keeps your suitcase secure during travel.
- Compact 20″ size fits most airline carry-on rules.
- Designed for both men and women’s travel needs.
Our Recommendations
This carry-on suitcase is light and easy to roll through airports. The spinner wheels move smoothly in all directions. Its hard polycarbonate shell feels very strong and protects my items well. The TSA lock gives extra safety and peace of mind. Fits perfectly in overhead bins on flights. The moss color looks nice and does not show dirt easily. Packing is simple with the roomy interior and organized compartments. I travel often, and this suitcase holds up great every time. A solid choice for anyone needing a reliable carry-on bag.
8. DELSEY PARIS Cruise 3.0 Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Graphite, Carry on 20 Inch
Brand: DELSEY PARIS
Manufacturer: Delsey Luggage, Inc.
Color: Graphite
Dimensions: Height: 22.75 inches Width: 10.0 inches Length: 15.0 inches Weight: 7.4 Pounds
Durable and stylish, the DELSEY PARIS Cruise 3.0 carry-on fits easily in overhead bins. Spinner wheels glide smoothly for easy movement through airports and streets. Expandable design offers extra space when packing more items. The hard shell protects belongings from bumps and scratches. Perfect size for short trips and quick getaways. Strong zippers and secure locks keep your items safe.
Advantages
- Hard shell protects your belongings from damage during travel.
- Spinner wheels make moving your luggage smooth and easy.
- Expandable design offers extra space for packing more items.
- Compact 20-inch size fits most airline carry-on requirements.
- Durable graphite color hides scratches and dirt well.
Our Recommendations
This DELSEY luggage is very sturdy and holds a lot for its size. Spinner wheels make moving it smooth and easy. The graphite color looks nice and hides dirt well. Expanding the suitcase adds extra space when needed. Handles feel strong and comfortable to carry. Perfect size for carry-on rules on most airlines. Packing and unpacking is simple with its organized compartments. A reliable choice for frequent travelers who want light but tough luggage.
9. TUMI – 19 Degree International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On – Hard Shell Suitcase – 21.8″ X 14.0″ X 9.0″ – Black
Brand: TUMI
Manufacturer: TUMI
Color: Black
Dimensions: Height: 21.653543285 inches Width: 9.055118101 inches Length: 13.9763779385 inches Weight: 10.80044621538 pounds
Durable hard shell protects your belongings during travel. Smooth 4 wheels make moving through airports easy. Expandable design offers extra space when needed. Compact size fits most airline overhead bins. Stylish black color suits any traveler’s look.
Advantages
- Durable hard shell protects belongings from damage.
- Four smooth wheels make moving the suitcase easy.
- Expandable design offers extra space for packing.
- Compact size fits most airline carry-on rules.
- Sleek black color looks stylish and professional.
Our Recommendations
The TUMI 19 Degree carry-on is very strong and feels safe for my things. Its hard shell stops any damage during travel. Smooth wheels make moving it easy and quiet. The expandable feature gives extra space when I pack more. Handles are comfortable and fit well in my hand. It fits perfectly in airplane overhead bins. Inside, pockets help keep items neat and easy to find. I like the simple black color; it looks clean and professional. This suitcase makes traveling less stressful and more organized. Perfect size for short trips or business travel.
10. Osprey Ozone 4-Wheel Carry-On 38L/21.5″, Coastal Blue
Brand: Osprey
Manufacturer: Osprey
Color: Coastal Blue
Dimensions: Height: 10.0 inches Width: 15.0 inches Length: 22.0 inches
This Osprey Ozone 4-Wheel Carry-On offers smooth rolling with its four sturdy wheels. Its 38-liter capacity fits enough clothes for short trips or weekend getaways. Coastal Blue color adds a fresh, stylish look to your travel gear. Lightweight design makes it easy to carry through busy airports. Multiple compartments help keep your items neat and easy to find. Strong zippers and durable fabric ensure long-lasting use.
Advantages
- Smooth 4-wheel design makes rolling easy and quiet.
- Lightweight build helps carry more without extra weight.
- Spacious 38L capacity fits clothes and essentials neatly.
- Durable Coastal Blue fabric resists scratches and dirt.
- Compact size fits most airline overhead compartments well.
Our Recommendations
The Osprey Ozone 4-Wheel Carry-On is very easy to roll and steer. Its lightweight design makes travel less tiring. The 38L size fits all my essentials perfectly. Coastal Blue looks nice and stands out on the luggage rack. Strong zippers and sturdy wheels give me confidence on busy trips. Packing is simple thanks to the well-organized compartments. Handles feel comfortable and hold up well during long journeys. A great choice for short trips or weekend getaways. No trouble fitting it into overhead bins on planes. Overall, a reliable bag that makes travel smoother and more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Size Carry On Luggage Is Allowed On Most Airlines?
Most airlines allow carry on luggage up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Check your airline’s rules before packing.
2. How To Choose The Best Carry On Luggage For Travel?
Pick lightweight, durable luggage with smooth wheels and enough space for essentials.
3. Can Carry On Luggage Fit In Overhead Bins Easily?
Good carry on luggage fits overhead bins without extra force or damage.
4. What Materials Make Carry On Luggage Durable And Long Lasting?
Hard shell plastic and strong fabric like ballistic nylon last longer and protect belongings well.
Buying Guide On Best Carry On Luggage
1. Size and Weight Matter
Choose carry on luggage that fits airline rules. Light bags make traveling easier.
2. Durable Material Is Key
Pick luggage made from strong materials like polycarbonate or ballistic nylon. It lasts longer and protects your items.
3. Smooth Wheels Help Mobility
Four spinner wheels offer better control and easy movement in airports.
4. Comfortable Handle Design
Look for adjustable, sturdy handles. They reduce strain while pulling your luggage.
5. Organized Compartments
Multiple pockets and sections keep your belongings neat and easy to find.
6. Secure Zippers and Locks
Strong zippers and built-in locks keep your items safe during travel.
7. Style and Color Options
Choose colors and styles that are easy to spot on luggage carousels.
8. Price and Warranty
Consider your budget and check for warranties. It protects your purchase over time.
Conclusion
Choosing the best carry on luggage helps make travel easier and more comfortable. A good bag fits your needs and lasts long. Think about size, weight, and how easy it is to carry. Strong wheels and sturdy handles matter a lot.
Also, pockets and compartments keep things organized. Pick a bag that meets airline rules to avoid problems at the airport. Remember, the right luggage saves time and reduces stress. It keeps your belongings safe and helps you move quickly. Traveling with the best carry on means you can enjoy your trip more.
Simple, smart choices lead to better travel experiences. Ready to pack your bags? Now you know what to look for in the best carry on luggage.