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The Best Carry-On Luggage 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Travel Editors

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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Packing for a trip can be stressful, especially if you’re trying to fit everything you need into a carry-on bag. With increasingly strict airline baggage allowances and common occurrences of lost/mishandled checked bags, finding the right carry-on suitcase is key to avoiding expensive checked baggage fees and ensuring your stuff makes it to your destination. 

No one understands this struggle more than the SmarterTravel team. As travel editors, we travel a lot (and are firm carry-on only flyers.) We tested and reviewed the top carry-on luggage over hundreds of trips to help you find one perfectly suited for all your travels.

The carry-on bags we reviewed underwent rigorous testing to see how they held up to the realities of travel. We evaluated important factors like size and weight, wheeled performance, ease of packing, durability, and special features. Our testing process included packing each bag to capacity, carrying it through airports, stowing it in overhead bins, and taking it on planes, trains, and automobiles during real-world trips.

Ranging in price from affordable to splurge-worthy, the best carry-on suitcases earned top marks across all our tests for their optimal size, seamless maneuverability, handy organization, stylish looks, and resilience.

From a lightweight hard-sided spinner that fits easily in tiny overheads to a large carry-on that expands for over-packers, these are our travel editors’ picks for the best carry-on suitcases of 2024. 

Best Carry-On Suitcase Overall: Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase

The Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase was our favorite of all the carry-on suitcases we tested. This smart and sleek suitcase is made from a durable polypropylene shell that helps contribute to its light weight of 6.4 lbs. Smooth spinner wheels and an adjustable handle make this bag easy to wheel even when fully packed.

The interior is just as nice, lined with a fabric made from 100 percent plastic bottles. There’s also a multi-functional panel divider that can compress clothes to create more space while providing pockets for organization. One of the pockets is water-resistant, so you can use it to separate swimsuits or wet clothing on the journey home.

Our favorite feature of the Samsonite Outline Pro is the antimicrobial handle technology used on the trolley grip and side handles, which helps keep us healthy while traveling. 

Dimensions: 15” x 10” x 23”

Weight: 6.4 lbs

Best Large Carry-On Suitcase: Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase

If you want to test the limits of an airline’s carry-on policy, we recommend the Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase as the best large carry-on suitcase. We’ve taken this suitcase on hundreds of flights and have only ever had to check it on very small puddle-jumper planes. This roomy carry-on can hold up to 42 liters, making it a great suitcase for chronic overpackers. 

This suitcase comes with two compression boards, which can be used to divide the two halves of the suitcase and help you fit even more in. The boards have large pockets perfect for packing cords and other small items. 

We also love that all Roam luggage can be customized to suit your style—you can choose the color of every part of this suitcase, right down to the wheels, to create a unique bag that definitely won’t get mixed up at baggage claim.

Dimensions:  9” x 16.25” x 22”

Weight: 7.7 lbs

Best Expandable Carry-On Suitcase: Delsey Rempart Carry-On Suitcase

An expandable suitcase is like having two bags in one—keep it small and compact for a short trip or open it up for a longer journey (or for the return trip when you buy lots of souvenirs to bring home). Delsey’s Rempart Carry-On Suitcase is our favorite expandable bag due to its patented Securitech Zipper that’s three times more resistant than a standard zipper (so you don’t have to worry about it ripping open, even when it’s expanded to its maximum capacity).

Other thoughtful features include an integrated TSA-combination lock, two packing compartments with compression straps, zippered pockets, and a lined divider. We also love that the interior lining can be removed and washed—an innovation you’ll appreciate if you’ve ever come home with a sandy suitcase after a beach trip.

Three carrying handles allow this bag to be carried in various ways. If you have other Delsey suitcases, the Rempart’s modular design allows it to stack on top for easy carrying and storage. 

Dimensions: 13.75” x 10.25” x 21.75”

Weight: 6.7 lbs

Best Soft-Sided Carry-On Suitcase: Travelpro Maxlite 5

The best soft-sided carry-on suitcase is also one of the lightest weight options on our list. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 lives up to its name, weighing just 5.4 lbs. This model is the brand’s latest and is a full half-pound lighter than the previous iteration, the Travelpro Maxlite 5. 

The suitcase has a unique tapered design that helps prevent it from tipping over when upright (a common problem with soft-sided suitcases). It also has a solid bottom tray design that helps increase the bag’s durability. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 can expand to 2 inches to provide extra space when needed. The interior is lined with a waterproof protectant that helps keep the bag dry. 

This suitcase comes with Travelpro’s limited lifetime warranty, which will cover the cost of repairs if it’s damaged for one year after purchase. 

Dimensions: 23” x 14.5” x 9” 

Weight: 5.4 lbs

Best Luggage Trackers

Best Small Carry-On Suitcase: Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On Luggage

We love the Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On because it’s deceptively spacious for its small size and light weight. It even expands slightly to give you a little bit of extra space when you need it. We’ve packed for week-long trips with just this bag and had no issues fitting everything in. Despite the diminutive size, this suitcase is packed with organizational features, like an exterior laptop sleeve and interior zippered pockets. 

Made from 100 percent recycled, water-resistant fabric, this carry-on-sized spinner bag is easy to wipe clean and great for rainy destinations. 

The Warrior is equipped with heavy-duty wheels that allow you to roll this bag over rough terrain—a perfect pick for navigating the cobblestone streets of Europe.

Dimensions: 21.65” x 14” x 10”

Weight: 8 lbs 12 oz

The Best Hardsided Carry-On Suitcase: Away The Carry-On

Away’s The Carry-On Suitcase has won many awards and is beloved by travelers, and for good reason—it’s smartly designed. The Carry-On is Away’s smallest suitcase and will fit in most overhead compartments and pass all but the strictest baggage sizers at the gate.

This durable carry-on suitcase is crafted from 100 percent polycarbonate for maximum impact resistance. It glides smoothly on premium 360-degree spinner wheels and features a telescoping trolley handle with two height settings for ergonomic maneuvering. The water-resistant shell safeguards your belongings, while convenient features like the TSA-approved lock, laundry bag, and color-matched luggage tag help streamline your packing routine. 

Thoughtfully designed, the suitcase maximizes storage with a double-buckle compression pad and extensive interior organization like three mesh pockets and a handy hanging pocket. Reverse coil zippers grant easy access to the wide opening, and an underside grab handle aids lifting. 

As a bonus, Away’s carry-on suitcase comes in a variety of beautiful colors, including glossy and matte options. 

Dimensions: 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″

Weight: 7.5 lbs

The Best Luxury Carry-On Suitcase: Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On

The Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On is an organized packer’s dream. The design of this suitcase keeps suits, shoes, clothes, and toiletries neatly separated and wrinkle-free. Convenient amenities like the built-in USB port and built-in TSA lock maximize functionality. 

This is a great suitcase choice for business travelers, as the interior features a removable garment sleeve and fiberglass rod that allows you to hang a suit or dress inside the case without getting crushed or wrinkled. 

The Continental Dual Access features Tumi’s signature smooth-rolling wheels and a 3-stage telescoping handle for easy maneuverability. Protective features like molded bumpers and side panels guard against impacts, while built-in tracers and TSA-approved locks keep valuables secured. With options for top, side, or bottom access via well-designed zippers, this suitcase optimizes packing efficiency for several days of travel. 

Dimensions: 22.0″ X 16.0″ X 9.0″

Weight: 11.1 lbs

The Best Carry-On Backpack: L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack

A carry-on doesn’t have to be limited to a suitcase. For the ultimate in mobility, opt for a backpack as your carry-on. You won’t have to worry about climbing stairs or pulling a bag over rough sidewalks, and a backpack can fit under your seat on a full plane when necessary, avoiding the dreaded gate-check. 

Our favorite carry-on backpack is the L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack . Use it on its own for a short trip, or combine it with a checked bag (put all the essentials in the backpack and carry it on the plane) for longer journeys.  

The Approach Travel Pack opens flat and can be packed like a suitcase, unlike a traditional backpack where you’ll have to shove everything in through the top and dig through the entire bag to find something buried at the bottom.

Dimensions: 20” x 12.5” x 10”

Weight: 3.3 lbs

5 Simple Ways to Make Travel Easier in 2024

How We Tested These Carry-Ons

These are the carry-on suitcases that the SmarterTravel team uses on their own trips. We’ve taken them on countless flights, train trips, road trips, and cruises to find out the pros and cons of each bag. 

When testing a carry-on, we consider the following factors:

• Size and weight
• Ease of transportation
• Organizational features

We’ve tested out numerous suitcases that didn’t make the cut, which helped us narrow the list to the best carry-ons worth investing in. 

What Size is a Carry-On Suitcase

The dimensions for a carry-on suitcase vary by airline and generally change depending on if it’s an international or domestic flight. For flights within the United States, the most common size limit for a carry-on suitcase is 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high. 

The international carry-on suitcase size limit is usually 21.7 inches by 15.7 inches wide by 9 inches high, but this will vary by airline.

Note that airline carry-on size limits include all aspects of the suitcase, including the handles and the wheels, so be sure to check the total dimensions of your bag and not just the interior measurements. If your suitcase meets the size limit but the wheels don’t, it will not pass the carry-on sizer test.

Always check with your airline for the correct carry-on size for your trip, as it can change by destination. 

Is There a Weight Limit for Carry-Ons?

There usually isn’t a weight limit for carry-ons on domestic flights within the United States (unless you’re flying on a very small plane). However, you must be able to lift the suitcase into the overhead bin without assistance.

International flights are generally stricter with weight limits and will weigh your carry-on bag when you check-in. These weight restrictions vary quite a bit by airline but generally range from 15 to 35 lbs. 

What Can’t You Pack in a Carry-On Suitcase?

Remember, carry-on suitcases are subject to stricter security restrictions than checked bags. You can’t pack these items in carry-on suitcases, but you can pack them in your checked luggage:

• Liquids or gels bigger than 3.4 ounces
• Sharp objects (including knives, hiking poles, and large scissors) 
• Certain sporting goods (such as baseball bats and hockey sticks)
• Self-defense items (including pepper spray and brass knuckles)
• Weapons (including firearms) 

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Briggs & riley, bric's, luggage faqs, the 11 best luggage brands of 2024, tested by experts.

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The best suitcases let you roll through the airport quickly and confidently, with assurance that your items are well-protected and sturdily organized within.

We selected our picks for the best luggage brands based on years of hands-on testing by several travel editors who regularly take up to 50 flights a year. Since the size of luggage you'll need will depend on your specific travel plans, we focused on the best brands rather than specific pieces. Our top picks are known for making sturdy and reliable luggage, with smart extras to make packing and traveling a breeze. 

Read on for our top choices for the best luggage brands at various price points to consider. If you're specifically looking for hand-luggage, check out our guide to the best carry-on bags . 

Our top picks for the best luggage brands

Shop all luggage at Samsonite

When it comes to value, Samsonite makes excellent luggage at some of the best prices, which is why we named it our top overall pick for the best carry-on . Samsonite offers numerous options for roller bags, including both hard-side and soft-side carry-ons and checked luggage, as well as wheeled underseat bags and even roller duffels. 

Samsonite also sells several two- and three-piece sets if you want to pair small, medium, and large roller bags together. In addition to traditional roller luggage, Samsonite also offers classic backpacks, wheeled backpacks, duffels, briefcases, wallets, dop kits, and more. There are even some cool wheeled garment bags that can fit under your seat and will fit far more than your typical folding or hanging garment bag. I've owned a Samsonite bag for over three years now and it's held up incredibly well.

You can read our full Samsonite Centric Carry-On review for more info.

Worth a look:

Shop all luggage at Away

Away has multiple options for roller luggage, including hard-sided, expandable, and aluminum. Bags are available in both neutral hues and bright, eye-catching colors.

Away's stand-out feature used to be the removable battery pack for charging your electronics on the go, which was previously available as an add-on to its carry-on bags. While the brand retired that feature, we still think its bags have thoughtful extras like in-bag compression, built-in TSA-approved locks, and a removable washable lining. 

In addition to roller bags, the brand also a range of other bags and travel accessories, including backpacks, duffels, pet carriers, totes, packing cubes, and more. I've personally owned Away luggage for years and can attest to its durability and practicality. 

Read our full Away luggage review and Away Carry-On review for more.

Shop all luggage at Travelpro

Travelpro mostly makes soft-side luggage and rightfully earned its spot as our top pick for the best soft-sided carry-on . I personally love the clear attention to detail that comes with a Travelpro bag, from the whisper-quiet spinner wheels to the tear-resistant material and sturdy buckles.

In addition to rolling luggage, Travelpro has options for underseat bags (rolling and not), toiletry bags, backpacks, foldable duffels, garment bags (which often come included with a carry-on), luggage tags, laptop bags, and more.

Read our full Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On review for more.

Shop all luggage at Monos

Monos is a newer start-up that doesn't have as many suitcase options as the other luggage brands on our list, but it's worth mentioning since it's one of the best suitcases on the market with a hard front pocket that gives you an easy place to safely store laptops and extras. Monos suitcases are durable, come in an array of colors, and are well-priced. Plus, all of the luggage comes with a 100-day trial period and a limited lifetime warranty. The same brand also makes some of our favorite durable packing cubes .

Currently, Monos has two sizes of carry-on that either come with a front pocket or not depending on your preferences, plus a medium-sized roller bag and a checked luggage option. Monos also make a backpack, duffel, and folio kit.

You can read our full Monos luggage review for more.

Shop all luggage at American Tourister

Many of American Tourister's carry-ons start under $100, and while they may not last you a lifetime, they certainly won't break down anytime soon either. The hard-sided bags are made from a sturdy ABS material, and the spinner wheels aren't quite as high-end as premium options but still easily roll on most surfaces. While these suitcases don't come with tons of extras (be aware that some don't come with built-in TSA locks), the interiors are still thoughtfully designed for easy packing. 

American Tourister has numerous roller bag options in varying sizes, including both hard-sided and soft-sided suitcases. There is also a line of Disney luggage that kids especially might love. While there are also some nice wheeled underseat bags, American Tourister hasn't branched out much from classic roller bags, so you'll want to look elsewhere if a duffel or weekender bag is more your aim.

Shop all luggage at Rimowa

When it comes to high-end luggage, Rimowa is a consistent standout that uses premium materials to create long-lasting and recognizable pieces. Its ribbed aluminum luggage, which comes in every color from simple silver to a cherry red, is particularly popular — though it will cost you upwards of $1,000. However, thanks to heavy-duty construction that still manages to be lightweight, the rollers might be worth it if budget isn't an issue for you.

For a slightly more cost-effective (though still pricey) option, I particularly love the Essential Lite collection, which I named the best high-end hard-side carry-on thanks to the fact that it's incredibly durable but weighs less than five pounds. Unfortunately, if you're a fan of soft-sided suitcases, Rimowa is not the brand for you, and there aren't as many accessories available as some other brands. 

Read our full Rimowa Essential Lite carry-on review .

Shop all luggage at Briggs & Riley

We named Briggs & Riley our top pick for the best high-end soft-side carry-on. I particularly like the super-smart interior features that truly elevate these suitcases, from a special CX compression-expansion system that increases packing capacity by 25%, to making sure the adjustable handle is entirely on the outside of the bag so no packing room is lost to the poles. These suitcases are certainly investment pieces, but they're built to last and also come with a lifetime warranty.

While I find the soft-sided bags to be some of Briggs & Riley's best options, there are also some nice hard-sided carry-ons and checked bags for those who prefer to go that route. In addition to roller bags, Briggs & Riley also makes backpacks, duffels, weekends, laptop bags, and travel accessories of all types, including packing cubes, bag ID tags, laundry bags, and more.

Shop all luggage at Bric's

Bric's is probably best known for its high-end Bellagio collection of luggage, both recognizable and revered for its durable, but ultra-light polycarbonate exterior with leather trim that gives it a nostalgic trunk feel. It's the little details that set this Italian brand apart, including Hinomoto wheels, matching interior linings, and premium zippers. That's why you've likely seen a luxury travel guru wheeling this bag through the airport, or, if you're an eagle-eyed "Schitt's Creek" fan, may have caught Alexis Rose using this collection to pack up her belongings. 

However, for those not ready to spend $600 on a carry-on, Bric's also has several more affordable suitcases in both hard-sided and soft-sided options. The Capri collection features striking exterior detailing in a wide range of colors at a mid-tier price point, while B/Y Zeus will appear to soft-sided fans.

The brand also has a sale section where you can sometimes score premium collections that typically start at $650 or more for under $200. 

Read our full Bric's Capri luggage review .     

Shop all luggage at Tumi

Like Rimowa, Tumi luggage pieces are an investment. But they're a worthy one since these suitcases will likely last you years, if not decades. With numerous options of all sizes for both hard-sided and soft-sided suitcases, Tumi has bags to suit just about all tastes. 

Its well-thought-out suitcases include premium spinner wheels, heavy-duty zippers, scratch- and tear-resistant exteriors, and well-designed interiors that help travelers maximize every last inch of space. In addition to roller luggage, Tumi is also well known for its premium totes and briefcases, and also makes travel wallets, backpacks, duffels, care kits, travel umbrellas, and more. 

Shop all luggage at Victorinox

Victorinox luggage falls in the mid- to high-tier of pricing but its durability makes it a good value choice. The brand also frequently has luggage on sale during big shopping holidays when you can score suitcases for less. As you might expect from a Swiss Army company, the interiors of most suitcases are also thoughtfully designed to maximize packing space. 

Victorinox offers both hard-sided and soft-sided roller bags of numerous sizes including classic carry-ons, checked bags, medium-sized suitcases, and smaller wheeled underseat bags that can fit laptops and accessories. Beyond roller bags, Victorinox also offers briefcases, duffels, backpacks, totes, toiletry kits, garment bags, and more.

Shop all luggage at Delsey

If you like the look of Bric's cream suitcases with leather trim, you may also want to consider Delsey's Chatelet line of hard-sided luggage. While these suitcases start around the same price as Bric's, they can be found on sale more frequently, often for half the price. Delsey's Titanium suitcases are also a fan-favorite option since they are ultra-lightweight but incredibly durable. 

Delsey has numerous options for roller bags for domestic and international travel in both hard-sided and soft-sided variations (though more hard-sided), as well as several luggage sets. It even has an eco-friendly line of laptop bags and duffels using recycled materials.  

Is hard-sided or soft-sided luggage better?

There are pros and cons to each. In general, hard-sided luggage offers more protection for your belongings than soft-sided luggage.

For checked bags, you're best bet is hard-sided luggage, since it can withstand tough handling and having other items stacked on top. Soft-sided luggage may be a good option if you want more flexibility, since fabric-made suitcases have a lot more give. Soft-sided pieces are a good option for carry-ons because they can flex and compress to fit into tight overhead bins.  

What size luggage should I buy?

We think it's best to start with a carry-on size, since it offers the most flexibility, whether you want to keep it in the cabin or check it. Most US airlines cap carry-on size at 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches high, including handles and wheels.

When it comes to buying a checked bag, you'll want something between 25 and 29 inches long. Airlines typically charge a fixed fee for checked bags up to a certain weight, so it may be tempting to think a bigger suitcase is always better. However, bigger pieces of luggage come with more weight of their own, don't protect your items well when they're underpacked, and encourage overpacking, which can lead to higher baggage fees (or the dreaded airport floor repacking). 

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

• Main content

The Best Carry-On Luggage

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

Traveling well is not always easy. Keeping your suitcase with you when you fly not only protects your belongings from loss or damage but may help you avoid extra fees as well.

If you decide to do so, you need a good carry-on bag.

Over the past 10 years, we’ve handled, tested, and traveled with 67 bags from more than 35 brands, and we remain convinced that the Travelpro Platinum Elite offers the best balance of value and quality for most travelers.

It packs five days’ worth of clothes into standard US carry-on dimensions 1 and has premium touches you might expect from a $600 bag at about half the price.

It’s a bag that you can rely on for life, even if it’s damaged by airlines —a rarity at any price.

Everything we recommend

Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner

The best soft-sided carry-on.

This spinner carry-on offers the best balance of size, value, reliability, and durability, plus high-end details. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

Buying Options

Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard

A bit more capacity and extra wheel durability.

This two-wheeled carry-on bag isn’t as maneuverable, but it offers slightly more space, a garment folder, and larger, more durable wheels.

Away The Carry-On

The best hard-sided carry-on.

This great-looking and relatively resilient piece of hard-sided luggage has top-of-the-line components—including wheels as smooth-rolling as any we’ve tested.

Away The Bigger Carry-On

Slightly more room, but you might get checked.

With more capacity than Away’s standard carry-on, this suitcase is sized appropriately for most flights. On smaller planes, though, you may get gate-checked.

Budget pick

Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Lightweight and appealingly inexpensive.

Remarkably well priced for a reputable brand, this is an ideal lightweight pick and provides many features of luggage costing nearly twice as much.

Upgrade pick

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

A soft-sided carry-on that fits more in less.

This carry-on bag offers superlative build quality, plenty of expandable room, and a uniquely effective compression system. It’s a buy-it-for-life suitcase.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ 2-Wheel Expandable Carry-On

More room, bigger wheels, less maneuverability.

If you’re willing to give up maneuverability for more space and bigger wheels, this is also a great option.

Carl Friedrik The Carry-On

A more luxe hard-sided carry-on.

Luxury touches and a strong polycarbonate and aluminum design give this bag a standout look with exceptional feel and performance. It does cost nearly $200 more than the comparably sized Away bag, though.

Yeti Crossroads 22″/35L Wheeled Luggage

A bag built for tough conditions.

A polycarbonate back and rugged wheels make this design suited for rougher travel over difficult surfaces. However, it has a limited warranty, and it’s somewhat unwieldy to handle.

What to consider

Four-wheel bags, aka spinners, are easier to maneuver down tight airplane aisles, but two-wheel bags will always be more durable .

Hard-sided looks better to most people, but soft-sided luggage withstands the bumps and knocks of travel for longer .

Plenty of reputable brands offer lifetime warranties; it’s generally worth paying a little extra for the peace of mind .

Depending on where you travel, you might need to look for specialty luggage sizes .

We’ve also included picks that stood out for their form and individual functionality: an upgrade with best-in-class compression, a pick made of polycarbonate , an upgraded hard-sided case with latch closures and an aluminum frame, a rolling soft-top hybrid , and a budget pick that’s also the best ultra-light suitcase we can find.

Travelpro’s Platinum Elite line of luggage is still our top pick after 10 years of testing. It addresses the concerns of most travelers for an affordable price while offering the best warranty against potential airline damage in the industry (as long as you register the luggage within 120 days of purchase, which you can do in minutes).

The Platinum Elite features smooth-rolling, replaceable wheels, as well as solid and comfortable telescoping handles and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid internal chassis. Instead of chasing the smart-bag moment, Travelpro added an exterior pocket with a USB pass-through extension that lets you insert your own battery pack for charging your phone. And weighing less than 8 pounds when empty, the Platinum Elite is dead in the center of average weight for bags this size.

In our view, soft-sided luggage lasts longer and shows less wear, but if you prefer the look of a hard-sided bag, Away’s The Carry-On is our choice. Like our other picks, this bag stands out for its high-end components: YKK zippers, smooth-running wheels, and a well-braced handle. Its strong but flexible polycarbonate shell shows scratches—however, after seven years of using the Away Carry-On, our testers have found that it is capable of enduring most of the trials of travel with fewer knocks than other similar models we’ve tested.

Away also makes a slightly larger version of the same model: The Bigger Carry-On . It conforms to carry-on size for most major airliners, but you might be asked to gate-check it on smaller planes.

Similar to our soft-sided picks, this Away bag is backed by a limited lifetime warranty. And though the coverage doesn’t explicitly protect against airline damage, it does apply to any damage that an airline could possibly dish out—specifically, but not limited to, the shell cracking or wheels breaking off.

Some companies have tried to shave off a few pounds from their standard luggage designs to make so-called ultra-light luggage. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner is the best of these bags we’ve seen, and it comes with the pedigree of our top pick but not quite as strong a warranty.

The Maxlite 5 is just over 2 pounds lighter than our top pick—that’s the weight of two or three pairs of jeans. It’s not a huge difference, but if you have trouble lifting luggage over your head and prefer an easier-to-manage suitcase, the Maxlite 5 may be your choice. This bag is also the best one we’ve found under $200, with almost all the benefits of luggage nearly twice the price.

For the more frequent flyer who is willing to invest in a higher-quality bag, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On . Every detail of this bag, from the zippers to the wheels to the wrinkle-resistant suit compartment, is made to the highest standards, and it has a higher proportion of usable space than any other spinner bag we tested.

Briggs & Riley boosts this extra capacity with a ratcheting compression system that easily presses an entire extra outfit (if not more) into the same external dimensions as most other carry-ons. It’s simple, impressive, and unmatched by any other brand’s compression system.

The Expandable Spinner version is also the only spinner luggage model we tested with a built-in garment folder, which helps shirts and pants stay wrinkle-free if you pack them well. If things go awry, Briggs & Riley has a catalog of replaceable parts and a global network of repair centers , as well as a reliable lifetime warranty covering repairs for airline damage.

For some people, Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On may be worth the extra cost. Behind the maturity of Italian leather accents and polish of higher-end Hinomoto wheels, the Carl Friedrik Carry-On bypasses the biggest compromise in most polycarbonate designs: the stitched-in zipper. Incorporating an aluminum frame around the center of the case and two latch locks, it feels comfortingly secure and well structured where other luggage tends to sag or bend away.

There’s a potential catch, however: The flex in a polycarbonate design (and most luggage, incidentally) is its strength. The more robust a piece of luggage becomes—by replacing, for instance, a zipper with an aluminum frame—the greater the chance that if something hits the case hard enough, the frame can bend or break. That said, you need to hit a frame like this with an extreme amount of focused force for that to happen. And Carl Friedrik provides a lifetime warranty that appears to cover airline damage in the event that an airline doesn’t compensate you within 14 days.

The Yeti Crossroads 22”/35L Wheeled Luggage represents the best of a relatively niche type of luggage design. Call it a hybrid model—a blend of a soft-sided luggage on top and hard-sided luggage on the back—that lends itself to fairly specific circumstances. It’s ideal for tough roads, broken streets, and slamming your luggage into uneven curbs with abandon. Do most people need this kind of luggage for their day-to-day travel? Absolutely not, and it can feel heavier than it really is. But if you do, this is the best there is—at least for the moment.

The Yeti Crossroads has everything you might expect from a brand that has built its reputation for over-the-top toughness and durability. The two heavy-duty wheels are among the largest and broadest that we’ve seen. Externally, Yeti blends a polycarbonate shell back with a water-resistant 700-denier nylon front and waterproof zippers. However, Yeti backs its luggage with only a three-year warranty and no mention of airline damage. That’s very limited protection, especially for the conditions this bag was designed for and definitely in comparison with the standards that our other picks set.

The research

Why you should trust us, how we picked and tested, our pick for the best carry-on luggage: travelpro platinum elite, our pick for the best hard-sided carry-on luggage: away the carry-on, budget pick: travelpro maxlite 5 carry-on spinner, upgrade pick for the best carry-on: briggs & riley baseline essential, upgrade pick for the best hard-sided carry-on: carl friedrik the carry-on, also great for tough conditions: yeti crossroads 35l wheeled luggage, other good carry-on luggage, what to look forward to, the competition.

I’ m a senior staff writer at Wirecutter, and ha ve been covering luggage and travel bag design here for about a decade. I’ve written guides to everything from packing cubes and checked luggage to duffle bags and underseat luggage .

For this guide, I’ve done the following over the years:

• I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags.
• I’ve spoken with plenty of experts: flight attendants for major airlines, product designers and creative directors for luggage and gear companies, and travel and gear writers. My conversations with these people have helped shape our coverage, and we owe much to their collective knowledge.
• Like all Wirecutter journalists, I review and test products with complete editorial independence. I’m never made aware of any business implications of my editorial recommendations. Read more about our editorial standards .
• In accordance with Wirecutter standards and to avoid any conflict of interest, I don’t own stock or have any other financial interest in a company or industry that I cover or am likely to cover.

In the 10 years we’ve been covering this category, luggage has evolved, and so has our thinking about what makes the best carry-on for most people. After spending well over 200 hours doing research and interviews and easily twice that time conducting hands-on testing, we’ve seen a few truths become clear.

First, at a certain threshold—roughly over $200—most luggage is fine. It will more than likely get you from point A to point B without incident many times a year for many years. What distinguishes great luggage from everything else is mostly an attention to detail—the quality of a bag’s handle, its wheels, the frame, and stitching—and a company’s guarantee that it will stand behind its product.

Every year we try to refine our testing and find new ways to consider what it means to be the best luggage. We’ve weighed and measured suitcases, comparing our results with company claims. We’ve calculated true internal capacity with hundreds of Ping-Pong balls 2 and some decently complex math for a writer to scratch out. We’ve packed and unpacked more bags than I care to remember. We’ve studied and compared wheel bearings, wheel sizes, pocket counts, pocket quality, the curious subtleties of garment bags that will (or more often won’t) keep your clothes wrinkle-free, the strength of warranties, and repairability.

We believe that any maximally sized carry-on should be capable of holding enough clothes to last you five days with room to spare for miscellaneous necessities. Most years we aim to have two testers, one male and one female, pack two bags individually as if headed to the same wedding. 3 What we included isn’t representative of a family traveling or a couple splitting a bag, but we erred on the side of bulky, and we hope it gives you a clear idea of how much of your own stuff these bags will hold.

We looked at how each bag loaded. Was there an easy way to keep smaller items (such as socks and underwear) organized? Did it have compression straps to keep things in place? Were the straps thick enough to avoid creasing the clothes? Just how much would the bag compress? How much room was left over? Once packed, was the bag prone to tipping over?

Over the years I’ve torn bags apart to see how the frames were put together, taken apart wheels, dismantled handles, and more or less treated luggage as poorly as one person could. I’ve wheeled loaded bags around many neighborhoods, looking at how well each bag rolled and how well it handled broken sidewalks, uneven pavement, grass, bricks, dirt, and curbs. I’ve dragged bags up and down two flights of concrete stairs, noting how easy this task was and how much damage the bags sustained. For our finalists, I’ve repeated the torture test along a second, even rougher route because I like the sound that polycarbonate luggage makes when it bounces down cavernous stairwells.

In fall 2023, we asked a panel of paid testers with a wide range of body types, dexterities, and mobilities to examine our picks and share their perspectives. We’ve incorporated their feedback in this review.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner is our pick for a soft-sided carry-on; if you need a little more room, we also recommend the Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard .

It has a history of great performance. Travelpro’s Platinum Elite line has been our top pick for almost every iteration of this guide because it addresses the concerns of most travelers for an affordable price: In addition to smooth-rolling, replaceable wheels, it features solid and comfortable telescoping handles and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid 7.8-pound internal chassis. Travelpro backs it all with a lifetime warranty that covers airline damage and shipping to the repair facility (as long as you register the luggage within 120 days of purchase).

It’s sized to maximize your space, but you do have options. Officially, the Platinum Elite measures 23 by 13.5 by 9 inches. Some sharp-eyed readers will notice that these actual dimensions, which include the handle height, exceed the 22-inch height limit for carry-ons on most domestic airlines. In reality, any luggage manufacturer maximizing its overhead allowances will push handles into the gray area between a case’s stated dimensions and its true overall dimensions. Travelpro, if anything, is being more honest in reporting the bag’s true 23.5-inch height than many other brands. As you can see in the photo below, the Travelpro’s frame fits into the American Airlines baggage caddy located at check-in, as it does in most standard-size caddies.

I’ve personally traveled with Travelpro carry-ons this size for more than 45,000 miles spread across 50 flights, from regional to long-haul to international routes, and I’ve never had an issue fitting within gate-side luggage sizers. If you’re nervous about getting caught at the gate or often fly in very small regional planes, Travelpro makes a 20-inch Platinum Elite as well as a slimmer international size, but they hold less (naturally) and lack a suiter insert.

It moves well across most surfaces and through most situations. The spinner bag’s configuration stands out in particular because of its MagnaTrac wheels, which magnetically snap into a forward position when the bag is moving. The small tracking assistance makes a large difference when you’re navigating the Platinum Elite through a crowded airport or down a busy street. It also has an easy-to-use, removable garment bag. After years of testing, we think the superior maneuverability of spinner luggage, along with improvements in manufacturing processes, makes four-wheel bags a better choice for most people. However, if you prefer slightly more packing capacity (the equivalent of squeezing in two more sweatshirts), larger wheels that run more smoothly over rough terrain, and a more protective built-in garment folder, 4 you may appreciate the two-wheeled 22-inch version of the Platinum Elite. One of our paid testers, who’s 6-foot-6, told us that although he could see the appeal of a spinner, “I would still choose the two-wheeler. It has a little more space, and when you’re my size, packing is just so horrible.”

It keeps clothes compacted but not creased. Inside, the Platinum Elite has a pair of tie-down straps and two broad panels with pockets that cinch down, similar in design and function to what you’d find in much more expensive Briggs & Riley luggage . Compared with the simple tie-down straps you often find in cheaper luggage, the panels do a great job of keeping things compacted without creasing clothes—a problem we’ve encountered in numerous other bags we’ve tested. Beyond that, the Platinum Elite’s internal organization system is about average. It will be familiar to anyone who has used a suitcase before, which means there’s no learning curve for optimizing the storage capacity. One long mesh pocket sits on one of the bag’s sides, and a smaller removable transparent plastic bag sits on the other side for easy TSA inspection of toiletries.

It’s tough yet flexible. The exterior is made of a hard-wearing nylon fabric, a key feature of all the bags we’ve tested. It hides scuffs and scratches, and it’s much more versatile than hard-sided bags. An expansion zipper lets you increase storage by about 30% in a pinch—although the bag is no longer carry-on compliant at that point. We prefer to use the expansion zipper as something of an ad-hoc compression system: We unzip the expansion zipper while packing the bag and then zip it at the end, tamping everything down tight. The Platinum Elite carry-on also has a variety of convenient exterior pockets, including two in the front, suitable for a sleep mask and other small miscellaneous items, and one on the side for a battery, though it can fit a bit more if necessary. It also has an accordion pocket on the front for magazines and electronic tablets.

In total, the Platinum Elite has an 1,856-cubic-inch interior, which we measured using hundreds of Ping-Pong balls . In real-world terms (the needs of Ping-Pong champions notwithstanding), the Platinum Elite swallowed up five days’ worth of clothes with no problem and had a good deal of room to spare—and that’s without our resorting to the expansion zipper.

It has an excellent warranty. Should anything go wrong, you can take advantage of Travelpro’s generous lifetime warranty, which covers airline damage  and shipping to the repair facility (as long as you register the bag within 120 days of purchase). The sole other company we’ve seen offering this extensive a warranty is Briggs & Riley, whose carry-on suitcases start at about $500. Travelpro has multiple repair centers . To get repair service, you can either drop the bag off at a repair center or ship the bag to Travelpro, the cost of which the company will cover. Keep in mind that the warranty doesn’t cover cosmetic wear.

It’s important to note that the Platinum Elite’s warranty coverage is “better” than the standard Travelpro warranty (including the one offered on our other pick from Travelpro, the Maxlite ) and most forum discussions we’ve read covering the subject over the years seem to agree that Travelpro’s service was prompt and painless. Of course, it’s better if nothing breaks in the first place.

Travelpro has a history of fixing production errors remarkably quickly. In 2019, we noticed a small uptick in Wirecutter reader complaints about zipper tabs breaking. We reached out to Travelpro, and a representative told us that a production error expanded the capacity of the front pocket of the Platinum Elite; this allowed travelers to overpack the pocket, which put excessive strain on the zipper. Travelpro identified and fixed the issue before it had reached the threshold of more than a few comments online.

Dimensions: 23.5 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 7.8 pounds Volume: 46 liters

How the Platinum Elite has held up

After nearly a decade of testing the Platinum Elite line of bags from Travelpro, we have yet to encounter a single serious issue. The fabric exterior brushes off scrapes and is easy enough to clean. Simply, it is a remarkably built bag that continues to travel well, year after year.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though the Platinum Elite rolled well in general, we are still concerned when dragging the bag up stairs. Some of the other bags we tested had long plastic bumper strips running most of the way up the length of the bag; this Travelpro model’s skid plate isn’t as big or as protective. I haven’t had an issue, but if you’re particularly rough on your luggage or uncomfortable lifting the bag over curbs or up stairs, it’s something to be aware of.

• In 2018, Travelpro added a USB-A pass-through cable to the Platinum Elite as a way to compete with so-called smart bags. We like the battery pocket, but the built-in cable itself, which routes from the pocket to a USB port less than 6 inches away, is an unnecessary item, which at best adds a potential point of failure to the bag—USB cables do not last forever. Does it ruin the bag? No. Is it a feature? Not really.
• Some vegan readers may dislike the leather accents.

If you prefer the look of hard-sided luggage or the security of knowing that you can’t overpack your suitcase, Away’s The Carry-On is the carry-on we recommend. If you want to maximize your available carry-on space, it also comes in a slightly larger size: The Bigger Carry-On .

It can take wear and tear. Most travelers are still better off with one of our soft-sided picks than a hard-sided carry-on; soft-sided luggage shows less wear and typically lasts longer than hard-sided luggage. But the Away Carry-On’s wheels and zipper are as well made as those of our soft-sided picks, and its polycarbonate showed fewer scratches than that of hard-sided competitors.

We’ve tested the Away Carry-On for six years, traveling with it ourselves across the country and lending several units to testers and frequent travelers to see how they enjoyed using the bag. Its polycarbonate feels similar to that used on more high-end (and significantly pricier) suitcases such as the Rimowa Essential Cabin , which is more than three times as expensive.

You have options if you need extra space. Away makes a similar model of suitcase with an expandable zipper, The Carry-On Flex . The Flex is the same bag as the standard Carry-On except for the expanding center zipper and the price (it’s about $50 more). Personally, I’m not a fan of expanding zippers on suitcases. It feels like just one more thing to break. But some people may prefer having the extra flexibility.

It feels great to use. The bag itself feels good in the hands, and the wheels are noticeably better than those on any of the hard-sided competitors we tried. Away also uses YKK zippers, outclassing our top pick in that regard (Travelpro moved to Supra zippers in 2015). At this point, we’re pretty comfortable saying that years of debate over the best zipper are largely redundant, but YKK still sets the standard.

Imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Away has sparked more imitators and outright duplicates than any other brand in the past decade, in part due to its appeal with younger travelers. I’ve thought about why, and as best as I can guess, a simple polycarbonate cube dripped in limited-edition soft hues does exude a certain calm; the fact that some of those same colors also coat the exteriors of pills ending in suffixes -ax and -il is not, one assumes, accidental.

It has a great warranty. The Away Carry-On is backed by a limited lifetime warranty that protects against defects and parts breaking. Though the warranty doesn’t specifically mention airline damage, the damages it does list—cracks or breaks in the shell, wheels or handles becoming unusable, zippers that don’t work, fabric tears that render any pocket unusable—basically outline anything an airline could possibly dish out. For the most part, our online searches looking for user experiences with Away’s warranty have turned up overwhelmingly positive results.

Dimensions (for The Carry-On): 21.7 by 14.4 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 7.5 pounds Volume: 40 liters

• The Carry-On’s sleek style comes at a cost: Its polycarbonate shell is ultimately more likely to break than the nylon fabric of our other picks.
• It lacks certain amenities, such as external pockets and a suiter, that our top picks have.
• The clamshell design, which splits down the middle and opens into two parts, can make the bag frustrating to pack and unpack. Packing cubes help, but after years of packing and unpacking soft-sided luggage with a single lid, I personally find a clamshell design to be more finicky when packing.
• Crain’s New York Business reported last year that Away is possibly exploring “strategic options including a sale,” which may muddy the waters around the brand’s overall future somewhat.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner is one of the lightest pieces of luggage we’ve tested, at a great price.

It’s lightweight. We have a hard time imagining how anyone could make a suitcase much lighter than this without breaking certain laws of physics. A few years ago, I took apart a Maxlite suitcase to see how the internal frame was built. What I found beneath the fabric was a clever lattice of plastic supporting the frame, which offered the best balance between weight-saving and structure.

For some people, especially those with limited upper-body strength, a lighter bag—even by just a few pounds—may be easier to lift or manage. That said, most people don’t need extremely light luggage, but just to pack less. For all the innovative design, the Maxlite 5 shaves only 2.4 pounds off the weight of our top pick. That’s the equivalent of a couple of pairs of jeans.

It’s inexpensive. My general advice to friends is to spend more than $200 but less than $500 to get good, if not great, luggage. The Maxlite 5 is the one piece of luggage I’ve found that breaks that rule. You can usually find it for about $150 or less, which is a remarkable price considering the bag’s quality.

Simple is good. This model doesn’t have any real bells or whistles—no battery pass-throughs or magnetically tracked wheels, as with our other Travelpro picks. Instead you’ll find two simple front pockets, a few well-placed handles, and a cavernous main compartment with a couple of pockets and two light straps to hold your stuff in place.

It comes from a trusted brand. We haven’t covered, examined, and interrogated a single luggage brand at Wirecutter for as long as we have Travelpro. For a decade, Travelpro has done a premier job of maintaining trust with its customers and with us—we’ve watched the company make small changes in design, catch flaws quickly, and address warranty concerns promptly. This is not something we say lightly: Travelpro is a name you can trust.

Dimensions: 23 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 5.4 pounds Volume: 46 liters

• The Maxlite 5’s warranty isn’t as robust as that of our top pick: Manufacturing defects in the wheels, zippers, and handles are covered for as long as you own the bag, but airline damage and shipping to a Travelpro repair center are covered only for the first year. (And you do need to register the bag.) Considering that this bag costs half the price of the Platinum Elite, this makes sense, but it’s something to be aware of.

If you’re a frequent flyer and willing to invest in higher-quality gear, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner (also available in a two-wheeled version with more capacity).

It’s the best of the best. Every detail of this top-rated bag, from the zippers to the wheels to the wrinkle-resistant suit compartment, is made to the highest standards, and we found that it had a higher proportion of usable space than any other spinner bag we tested. Briggs & Riley keeps its design consistent, adding, at most, small improvements such as this year’s upgraded lifting handle. Our 6-foot-6 paid tester pointed out that the Baseline Essential’s handle extended an inch and a half farther than that of the Travelpro Platinum Elite, which made it less likely to hit his heels as he pulled it.

Although the wheels don’t snap into alignment, they are exceptionally smooth-rolling and easy to maneuver. If you fly more than 25,000 miles per year, it’s worthwhile to invest in luggage that goes beyond merely being sturdy and actually improves your overall travel experience. That’s why we’ve been recommending it since we first covered this topic in 2014. The Baseline Essential is one of the best carry-on luggage options available today.

Its compression system is truly a marvel. The most ingenious part of the Baseline Essential bag is its CX expansion and compression system. Pull upward on two plastic handles inside the bag, and you can extend its depth a full 2.5 inches. Load the bag as full as you need to, and zip it closed. Then you push down on the bag, which compresses it as a clip mechanism secures it in place. Unlike other expansion systems, which are either open or closed, this one locks into incremental positions. It’s a unique design and very satisfying to use.

It’s the easiest to pack. Briggs & Riley placed the tracks for the Baseline Essential handles on the outside of the bag, which allows for a flat surface in the interior of the bag, with no small crevices to work around for simple packing. And in our tests, after packing 10 bags and trying to figure out strategies for each nook and cranny, packing on a broad flat surface felt like a luxury. According to our measurements, the bag, unexpanded, offers 1,905 cubic inches of storage room (and that accounts for the space occupied by the wheel wells and such). Expanded, it can stow 2,110 cubic inches. That’s remarkably efficient for a bag that does so much. All of these features add up to a carry-on that is easier to pack than any other bag we tested.

The Baseline Essential spinner is also the only spinner luggage model we tested with a built-in garment folder. It’s similar to the folder in Travelpro’s two-wheeled Platinum Elite bag, and that’s a good thing. It’s easy to pack and has an anchor point for hangers. Each of the three folds has a bit of padding that helps to keep a suit from pinching onto itself and creasing, though much of that depends on how well you pack. You can fit a week’s worth of clothes in the Baseline Essential, including some puffy gear for colder weather. A wide, wrinkle-free tie-down system completes the package.

It’s understated. On the outside, the Baseline Essential is pretty unremarkable. There’s nothing eye-grabbing about the bag, which is good if you’re trying to avoid being gate-checked (or having it stolen). Its outer, nylon fabric seems to be of a tighter weave than that used on the other bags we’ve tested. We also noticed a robust feel to the zippers, which are a self-repairing type made by YKK.

Similar to our top pick, the Baseline Essential includes a charging pocket. However, Briggs & Riley skipped the internal USB wiring, instead opting for a simple pocket arrangement (video) on the back of the bag for discreetly storing a charge pack and your phone. It’s an elegant solution.

It comes with an excellent warranty. All Briggs & Riley bags come with a lifetime warranty that covers any damage to the “functional aspects” of the bag, even if caused by an airline (like Travelpro, Briggs & Riley does not cover cosmetic wear or cleaning). Although Briggs & Riley handles warranty-covered repairs at no extra cost, you do have to pay to ship the bag to the company to carry out any repairs; it will ship your bag back to you for free. Or you can drop off the bag at one of the many repair centers . Briggs & Riley emphasizes that returning your bag to you in its original condition, even after repairs, is not always possible. The bags are easy to service and repair, so you can also order the parts you need and replace them yourself at home.

We’ve put in the miles, and the Baseline Essential is in a separate league. Over a five-year period before the pandemic, Wirecutter founder Brian Lam carried a two-wheeled Baseline Essential carry-on while traveling 150,000 miles and farther. After considering all the bags in our test and logging an additional 40,000 miles with a similarly priced bag by Tumi, he was convinced that this model is the best for anyone who’s always on the move. “I love this bag. It carries so much,” Brian said. “Sometimes I check it. Sometimes I carry it. It always fits.”

Dimensions: 22 by 14 by 9 (expands to 11.5) inches (HWD) Weight: 10 pounds Volume: 37 liters (expands to 48 liters)

• Despite the plastic shielding, the exposed rails on the exterior could use more protection. While dragging the bag up stairs (which we don’t advise doing), we felt more scraping than we’d like.
• At first glance, the handle feels too loose for a roughly $700 bag. We spoke to Briggs & Riley representatives, and they explained that this is a deliberate choice: The looser tolerances allow for the handle to retract by itself when you click its button, without your having to force it down. In practice, this is very helpful for scaling stairs and could save you some hassle in tight quarters, such as in the aisle of an airplane.
• At 10 pounds, the Baseline Essential is the heaviest bag we recommend. In this price range, weight often equals durability, which equals quality. But if you’re uncomfortable with a heavier bag, this isn’t the best pick for you.

Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On is an impressive polycarbonate case that improves in areas where most other companies tend to cut corners.

It’s robust and durable. It improves the usual hard-case design primarily by replacing the zipper with an aluminum frame sealed with two metal latches incorporating TSA locks. This trim makes the case feel far more robust, which is a very satisfying feeling when you’re wheeling luggage around an airport.

Clasping shut an aluminum frame with a metal lock is pleasing—it feels like closing a safe and locking it tight. The polycarbonate shell has an equally rigid feeling but exhibits plenty of flexibility under strain. Although it’s difficult to compare polycarbonates between brands, higher-end polycarbonate feels dense to the touch even as the material flexes; in this piece of luggage, Carl Friedrik offers impressive quality.

Additionally, the Carl Friedrik Carry-On has YKK zippers internally and Hinomoto spinner wheels from Japan—both considered the top of their class.

It’s thoughtfully styled. The soft leather accents and bolted frame all have a certain maturity that’s often lacking in other, competing cases. This look carries to the inside of the luggage as well. A simple gray polyester lining accompanies two sets of compression straps and a removable compression pad, which has a zippered pocket.

It has an excellent warranty. As you might expect for the price, Carl Friedrik backs up its luggage with a lifetime warranty that protects against airline damage (assuming the airline hasn’t responded to your request for compensation within 14 days).

Dimensions: 21.6 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 8.6 pounds Volume: 40 liters

• This is a brand-new pick—so far we haven’t found any flaws, but we’re keeping an eye on the latches. Luggage latches are small, complicated mechanical devices that have a myriad of ways to fail.
• The handle feels just a touch loose, which, as with our upgrade pick from Briggs & Riley , can be a benefit. It can also sometimes be a hazard. Again, we’ll continue testing it.
• Like our top pick, the Carl Friedrik uses real leather accents, which may be a dealbreaker for some.

Hybrid designs like the Yeti Crossroads 22″/35L Wheeled Luggage aren’t for everyone, but if you like the flexibility of a soft-sided luggage with the hard-hitting ruggedness of a polycarbonate back and two large fixed wheels, then this bag is just right.

It’s made from tough materials and easy-to-repair parts. Yeti has a reputation for using tough, sometimes cutting-edge, materials in all its gear. The Crossroads is no exception. The 700-denier nylon is one of the better nylons we’ve tested—tightly woven and exceptionally durable. (Denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric.)

The Crossroads comes in only a two-wheeled design, which is usually able to withstand more damage than a four-wheeled design. The wheels are also easier to service on the road and often replaceable. 5

It’s well organized. It includes a front panel organizer, similar to that of modern laptop backpacks, with two slots for your laptop and tablet plus a mesh pocket for spare gear. Fully packed, it still has room for a few magazines as well, if you like. Internally, the soft top has a zippered main compartment with a decent amount of packing space, as well as two mesh organizing pockets. In fact, it’s this organization that separates the Yeti from—and makes it better luggage than—other top contenders in the duffle category, specially the Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel . However, Patagonia has a lifetime (and legendary) warranty. So if longevity is your priority, the Patagonia is our next best pick.

It’s a pleasure to pack. As the Crossroads is built around a molded polycarbonate base, the entire suitcase becomes, in essence, a large tray to pack and then zip shut. It’s a very satisfying design—easier to manage than many of the clamshell designs that are currently popular. Yeti’s packing cubes are designed to fit snugly in the Crossroads’s main compartment, and the bag does come with one small cube. But if you choose these, you’re spending a premium for additional packing cubes when almost any packing cube will work.

Dimensions: 22 by 14 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 8 pounds Volume: 40 liters

• We’d love to see a better warranty. Three years is very limited when compared with other luggage brands selling similarly priced suitcases—especially for a bag that claims to be as tough as the brand’s reputation.
• Occasionally, Yeti’s tough-gear reputation veers almost into absurdity, as with the inclusion here of self-sealing zippers on a bag that isn’t actually waterproof—merely weather resistant. They’re top-of-the-line zippers. But self-sealing zippers can be hard to operate and require regular lubrication, which most people aren’t used to providing.
• The front-facing laptop organizer is woefully unshielded. If you’re traveling with a laptop, place it deep within the bag if you want it properly protected.
• The bag feels heavy—by our measurements, it weighs about a half pound more than Yeti’s 7.5-pound estimation. It’s not the heaviest of our picks, but something about the weight distribution and shape of the bag makes it feel heavier when you’re swinging it around.

If you need a hard-sided budget bag: Look at the Gregory Quadro Hardcase 22″ , an unexpectedly high-quality suitcase from an outdoor-gear company. Gregory offers a lifetime warranty with service and repair. Although the warranty doesn’t explicitly mention airline damage, Gregory’s good reputation speaks for itself in this matter. However, the Quadro Hardcase is a pound heavier (at 6.5 pounds) and about $60 more than our budget pick.

If the Away Carry-On is sold out: Consider the Monos Carry-On Plus . Picking between these two models came down to splitting some very fine hairs. Both use YKK zippers. Both have lifetime warranties. The handles and interiors are almost identical. Monos even hides the stitching that attaches the zipper to the polycarbonate frame, which is a nice aesthetic touch. The difference came down to the Away Carry-On’s wheels, which spun just that much more freely in our testing, and the underside handle, which made it easier to pull out of overhead bins. And we’ve tested the Away Carry-On for longer. However, if it’s unavailable, the Monos model is a good, nearly identical substitute.

If you want an adventure duffle with a lifetime warranty, but not much organization: Try the Patagonia Black Hole Matte Wheeled Duffel 40L . While more duffle than suitcase, this bag is sized for carry-on, comes with Patagonia’s excellent lifetime warranty , and it’s well constructed. It’s made of 100% recycled fabric, which includes the TPU laminate. And the wheel axle is easily repaired by anyone in the field, assuming they have spare parts. However, it lacks the organization of the Yeti Crossroads , with its many different compartments and pockets.

If you want a bag made of recycled materials: We suggest the Paravel Aviator Carry-On . Paravel is attempting to design luggage with recycled materials and some environmentally minded transparency to the company’s production methods. However, you pay a premium for the effort. Quality-wise, the bag is similar to our other hard-sided picks, for about a hundred more dollars. And much of the Paravel branding is built on carbon offsets, which we are deeply skeptical of (though we wish they worked).

If you’re an infrequent adventurer: Try the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller , which could almost be an also-great pick under our hybrid pick . It’s cheaper, has a better warranty (but no explicit coverage for airline damage), and is made from recycled materials. However, the overall build quality is wanting. For example, the polycarbonate shell doesn’t fully cover the tubes for the extendable handle as it does with our hybrid pick. It seems an oversight for bags that are built to knock around.

If the best possible suit-packing experience is all you want, and money is no object: The Vocier C38 Carry-On Luggage is worth a look, despite a few flaws and an $800 price tag. The C38 takes a unique, fold-free approach to packing clothes. Rather than folding garments in on themselves to fit in the bag, it bends the suit around the outside of the luggage frame in a U shape. This packing method creates no creases and therefore no wrinkles. The case is protected by a limited lifetime warranty that doesn’t cover airline damage.

We hope to take a look at the European brand Floyd , which is currently popular on Instagram. At first glance, it’s another piece of luggage looking to appeal to a younger mass audience. But the easy-to-replace polyurethane wheels and bearings—similar to skateboard wheels—do have “user-serviceable parts inside” curb appeal.

We’re considering expanding our coverage to include equipment cases like those made by Pelican . Though their appropriate use is very specific, when you need to travel with high-end gear or fragile valuables, Pelican cases are the first and almost only choice.

What about Rimowa? I admit that over the last decade I’ve hadmthe occasional perverse urge to see if a $1,500 carry-on suitcase is worth the price. Rimowa is famous for a few things. The company has made aluminum luggage for nearly 100 years, and it invented the polycarbonate suitcase in 2008. So it is true that in many ways Rimowa has set the standard in two separate centuries.

Soft-sided carry-on luggage

Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Roller Bag : We’re generally fans of Cotopaxi’s Allpa line, but this two-wheeled bag falls short. Specifically, the bottom of the bag is split by the zipper, which gives the bag an unstable feeling when it’s standing upright.

Eagle Creek Tarmac XE 4-Wheel 22″ Carry On Luggage : If this bag were about $150 cheaper, it would be a good price for the quality. We like the recycled materials, but the bag lacks framing.

Solo Re:Treat Carry-On Spinner : I appreciate any bag made entirely out of recycled materials, but this model (from a brand owned by the same company that manages Briggs & Riley) felt awfully flimsy. Even with its five-year warranty, I just don’t trust that this bag can go the distance.

Thule Subterra : The clamshell design—similar to the ones you find on hard-sided bags—makes this bag difficult to close if you’re trying to fill it to its full capacity. It just isn’t as easy to use as our soft-sided picks.

Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller : The balance on this bag was decent, and it stood up well unloaded or loaded. Its wheels had a cheap ball-bearing rhythmic chatter, though, and the abundance of zippers and internal compartments made it tedious to pack.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller : We considered this is a possible alternative to our Yeti hybrid pick . However, the overall build quality is wanting. For example, the polycarbonate shell doesn’t fully cover the tubes for the extendable handle as it does with our hybrid pick. It seems an oversight for bags that are built to knock around.

Travelpro Versapack+ and Crew Luggage lines: Both the Versapack+ and Crew luggage designs are absolutely fine: Consider them slightly stripped down versions of our top pick, the Platinum Elite. However neither have the extra warranty coverage—including against airline damage—that comes with the Platinum Elite.

Tumi Aerotour International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On : At about half the price, this would be a great bag. But paying nearly $700 for a five-year warranty and a bag that doesn’t do nearly as much as a Briggs & Riley suitcase seems a bit silly.

Hard-sided carry-on luggage

Amazon Basics 24-Inch Hardside Spinner : This bag is a surprisingly good carry-on for about $90. However, its ABS plastic shell is not as tough as a polycarbonate shell. It’s worth investing more in your luggage—the bag you choose will last longer and work better.

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On : The Arlo Skye carry-on is a decent piece of luggage, but it’s hard to square the bag with its cost: $200 more than our pick from Away .

Away The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition : 10 pounds! At this weight, you’ve lost a quarter of your allowable luggage weight to the suitcase alone, unpacked. And it’s nearly as expensive as our upgrade pick, with a much less satisfying compression system.

Briggs & Riley Torq and Sympatico : Though these collections seek to solve a different problem, neither is as impressive as the Baseline series.

Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Luggage : We preferred sturdier polycarbonate shells over Calpak’s blended ABS polycarbonate shell. Also, the bag’s handling felt jittery against normal airport floor surfaces.

Delsey Rempart Expandable Spinner Carry-On : At just around $200, the Rempart is a decent budget option. However, the external styling (like layers of pressed sheet pans) is an odd choice. It has some practicality, but only if you’re stacking identical Delsey cases one on top of another, which might happen, I suppose, at some point … maybe.

July Carry On : In the lineup between July, Monos, and Away, July falls just short. We appreciate the lifetime warranty, YKK zippers, and flexible but dense-feeling polycarbonate. But the overall design doesn’t do much to improve on the category (as the Monos bag subtly does).

Level8 Road Runner Pro Carry-On 20″ : This is potentially a decent budget pick at just around $200. But the one-year warranty and the somewhat fiddly TSA lock and front latching panel give us pause.

Level8 Voyageur series : This model features an extra-wide handle, which looks striking but doesn’t seem to offer many advantages over a regular handle—at least for carry-on luggage. In larger checked bags, we did notice that the wide handle offered a little more leverage when handling a bigger bag, but it seemed to hinder us with a carry-on.

Lojel Cubo Medium : Although we liked the uncommon top-loading design, the internal organization of the lid made packing this carry-on difficult. We also weren’t impressed by the zippered expansion system, which made the suitcase feel bulkier than our picks.

Lojel Voja Medium : An odd suitcase, this would be a great children’s suitcase or a budget pick—especially if it were under $200. But its current price is steep for a polypropylene blend with a couple of latches.

Paravel Aviator Carry-On:  Paravel is attempting to design luggage with recycled materials and some transparency as to the company’s production methods. However, you pay a premium for the effort. Quality-wise, the bag is similar to our other hard-sided picks, for about a hundred more dollars. And much of the Paravel branding is built on carbon offsets, which we are deeply skeptical of (though we wish they worked).

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Chris Ryan.

Airline policies vary, but a general rule is that the bag must be under 45 linear inches—the total sum of the bag’s length, width, and depth. Here’s the current sizing breakdown among the major US airlines:

• Alaska Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• Allegiant Air: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• American Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches (the dimensions of soft-sided garment bags are allowed to add up to 51 inches)
• Delta Air Lines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• Frontier Airlines: 24 by 16 by 10 inches (and less than 35 pounds)
• Hawaiian Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• JetBlue Airways: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• Southwest Airlines: 24 by 16 by 10 inches
• Spirit Airlines: 22 by 18 by 10 inches
• Sun Country Airlines: 24 by 16 by 11 inches
• United Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches

We double-checked the measurable packable space of our top picks against the manufacturers’ listed volumes by filling each piece of luggage with hundreds of Ping-Pong balls: 144 Ping-Pong balls weigh exactly 0.5 pound, and each Ping-Pong ball represents approximately 2 cubic inches (PDF) . After weighing each piece of luggage three times to establish an average empty weight, we filled the bags as full as we could with Ping-Pong balls and measured the change in weight. For every half-pound increase in weight we estimated 288 cubic inches of packable space.

His five-day travel kit included the following:

• 1 two-piece linen suit on a hanger
• 1 dress shirt on a hanger
• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 pair of khakis
• 5 medium-weight to lightweight shirts
• 1 heavy sweater
• 2 flannel shirts
• 5 pairs of boxer briefs
• 5 pairs of sport socks

Her five-day travel kit included the following:

• 1 dress on a hanger
• 1 blazer on a hanger
• 1 blouse on a hanger
• 1 pair of heels
• 2 pairs of jeans
• 1 pair of light sneakers
• 5 pairs of underwear and 3 bras
• 1 pair of yoga pants
• 1 flannel shirt
• 1 hair dryer
• 1 curling iron
• 1 jewelry/makeup kit
• 3 pairs of sport socks
• 4 lightweight shirts

You use a garment folder by laying a suit or dress across the panels, folding them into themselves, and zipping up the inner compartment. A folder should be wide enough that a suit isn’t cramped, and it should include hanger straps (which should fit around everything, even larger plastic hangers) to keep things from shifting around too much. Some folding boards have 0.75-inch-diameter foam rolls in them to help prevent creases along the packed clothes’ fold lines. When you aren’t traveling with fancy clothes, you can take the whole apparatus apart and use it as luggage dividers in the main bag itself, or leave it at home, converting the suit/dress compartment into an extra packing cube.

Yeti doesn’t seem to have an easy way to order replaceable wheels. But the 3.5-by-1-inch wheels are fairly common, and we’re looking at the best possible alternatives.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Luggage Tags

We chose five luggage tags that will help you identify your belongings in a sea of similar suitcases.

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is our backpack pick for most travelers. We also have picks for other travelers, including those who want to carry a bit more.

We’ve Loved Luggage From Travelpro’s Platinum Elite Line for a Decade. Here’s Why.

Travelpro Platinum Elite is our most loyal travel companion.

Are Away Carry-Ons Worth the Hype?

Although we still prefer the better durability of soft-sided luggage, if you want the look and feel of a hard-sided case, we recommend the Away Carry-On .

Article updated on May 2, 2024 at 10:10 AM PDT

The Best Carry-On Luggage, According to the CNET Staff Who Use Them

Travel is finally back, and good luggage is a must. Here's our favorite carry-on luggage for you to choose from.

Our Experts

• 6 years working professionally in the 3D printing space / 4 years testing consumer electronics for large websites.

CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.

If you're planning summer travel, securing durable, convenient carry-on luggage should be at the top of your list -- especially with rising airline baggage fees . Luckily, the CNET team travels often for work, frequently for short trips to conventions, conferences or expos, so we know what the difference is between a good and great carry-on. Read on to learn about the best carry-on luggage according to the CNET staff who use them.

We've pulled together some of our favorite carry-on luggage from across the teams at CNET to give you some idea of what might work for you. These are not the "tested in CNET Labs" products -- that list is coming soon -- but the ones that we use in our day-to-day lives.

Great for small trips

Peak design everyday backpack 30l.

OK, this isn't technically luggage, but it is a day pack that's big enough to handle overnight trips alone or as a clutch secondary bag to handle electronics and whatever wouldn't fit in your main suitcase. Although large, it fits under every airplane seat I've flown on and is so durable I can throw it around or leave it in the rain without worrying. Most Peak Design fans recommend the smaller 20L, but I opted for the 30L so I could take it on trips. It has padding and Velcro-secured dividers for cameras and other fragile equipment, with plenty of pockets and space for phones, tablets and laptops. 

The side zippers make it easy to grab items deep in the main compartment, while the abundance of outer handles makes it easy to yank the bag out of car trunks and overhead bins. Lastly, there are little hook and anchor points to tie down even more luggage if you need it. It's truly versatile.  -- David Lumb

A great budget option

Skyline softside carry on spinner.

I'm not much of a traveler, but I do keep a pretty basic carry-on bag around for the times when I do need to pack a few things for a quick trip. I've been using this carry-on bag, the smallest piece of a larger set I purchased at Target for my last few trips, and I really couldn't ask for more from a bag. It has a fairly sturdy handle for wheeling the bag around to your destination and four wheels to help guide it along easily. Inside, there's one big compartment with a zipped pouch at the top. There are straps at the bottom to secure your items, and the outside of the bag has two zipped areas as well. You can expand it by unzipping one of the sections, in case you are one of those who pack a lot of stuff and like to push the limits of your suitcases. It's not a hardshell suitcase, and it may not be designed to last forever, but at this price, it's perfect for anyone who may not travel often or need something expensive.

-- Jared DiPane

A simple hard case

Kenneth cole reaction.

This Kenneth Cole carry-on suitcase has lasted several years and survived many trips being shoved into the overhead bin or thrown in with other suitcases getting checked last-minute at the gate. It's lightweight with a hard shell, and its four wheels spin in any direction, making it easy to navigate the airport. It has a sleek design and comes in 14 different colors. I don't use its inner organization system often, but my husband loves the zipper panel and straps that can hold in your clothes. The suitcase comes with a 10-year warranty, but it only covers craftsmanship and manufacturer defects. But based on my experience, it should hold up pretty well. 

-- Alison DeNisco Rayome

Perfect for a few days of light travel

Venture duffle bag from bellroy.

When I'm going on a short trip, I don't want to tote around a large piece of luggage. This is where the Venture duffle bag from Bellroy comes in handy. It's not only long-lasting but is also fashionable and practical in its design, which is exactly what I need to keep my trips stress-free. It features a huge main compartment that is capable of holding a week's worth of clothes (if you roll them up) and two pairs of shoes when you use the complementary stuff sack. This bag is water-resistant, leather-free, and has a minimalistic design. I thought that after stuffing everything in my bag I would struggle to carry it around, but the padding on the strap made it a cinch to move it about. I can even fit a laptop and other necessary accessories safely. While I'd love a thicker strap all around, when I'm going on short trips, bringing this Venture duffle along just makes it easier to get up and go.

-- Robin Mosley

Fashion and function

Sole premise commuter bag.

As an avid sneaker fan, I like having more than one pair of shoes with me on my trips. I usually have one comfortable pair to walk around with that is also what I wear to the airport, another pair that goes well with multiple outfits, and a third pair to show off a bit. That's why I bought the Sole Premise Commuter Bag earlier in the year. The bag consists of two compartments for sneakers although you can fit clothes in there as well. Then it has the rest of the standard spacing for a laptop, tablets, other accessories and so on. On my last trip, I was able to pack three pairs of shoes and my multiple devices, including my Nintendo Switch, while still being able to fit it under the seat in front of me. 

-- Oscar Gonzalez

TSA compatible locks built in

Coolife luggage spinner suitcase (20-inch).

I generally only buy name-brand luggage, so when my partner bought this suitcase from Amazon, I shrugged at it and figured it might not hold up. To my surprise, it's been a great little carry-on that's served us well in the eight-plus months we've had it. I just took it on a four-day trip and managed to fit more clothing in it than I thought it could ever hold. Not only that, but it was light and easy to lift into an overhead bin. The handle extends easily, the wheels work well. For the price, don't expect the highest quality, but I have no complaints. It has all the basics you'd want -- zippered compartments, an interior strap to compress clothing and a built-in TSA lock.

-- Sarah Mitroff 

The only bag you'll need

Nomatic travel backpack.

If you want one backpack that'll work for your daily commute, a day trip or weekend away or as an airplane carry-on, this is it. I continue to be amazed at how well-designed this bag is every time I use it, and it truly feels like the company thought of everything.

The main compartment gives you enough room for your lunch, a jacket, books and whatever else you might carry on including a hard case for sunglasses. Like many travel bags, there's a zipper around the outside (all the zippers are weather-sealed, by the way) that expands the size to give you space for shoes and clothes for a day or two. What's unique is that when you expand the bag, it reveals another zipper that opens the backpack like a clamshell for easy packing.

At nearly $300, it's expensive to be used as just a carry-on. Given the bag's design flexibility, it might be the only bag you need. 

-- Josh Goldman

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The 11 Best Luggage Sets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

For more efficient traveling, invest in a stylish and functional luggage set.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

When it comes to luggage, the most important thing is a high-quality, reliable design. But to many travelers, aesthetics are a close second. Just like an outfit, it's nice when your baggage looks cohesive and intentional. Plus, a matching set is useful when traveling with your family or partner and any time you need to bring more than one bag.

So, what are the best luggage sets? That depends on your needs, preferences, and taste. To help you narrow it down, we tested over 450 pieces of luggage in our lab using our specially-made airplane set as well as in the real world. We packed up the suitcases, spun them around, rolled them over various surfaces, hoisted them into overhead bins, pushed them off tables, and whacked them with a metal baseball bat to see how they'd perform in a real-life setting. The winners here not only performed well in our tests, but are also available as part of a set. Check out our favorite luggage pieces that are available as matching sets below.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside set.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

This two-piece suitcase set is lightweight, spacious, and super easy to maneuver.

The suitcases don't have laundry bags or smart features.

After trying 14 pieces of Samsonite luggage , we're big fans of the brand — particularly the Freeform line. This two-piece set includes the Freeform Carry-on (21-inch), plus the matching Checked Spinner (28-inch), both of which expand. The smaller size earned perfect scores in all our tests, thanks to its lightweight and compact yet spacious design. We didn't even need to use the expander to fit everything on our packing list . Though there's no removable laundry bag, these suitcases have various pockets within the main compartments and separators for dirty shoes. The high-strength thermoplastic exterior stood up well to our durability tests. After hitting it with a baseball bat and shoving it off a table, we observed no dents, scratches, or scuffs. It seems water-resistant and easy to wipe clean, too.

The suitcase we tested was a breeze to maneuver, gliding effortlessly on hard flooring, carpet, and even gravel. We also love the minimalist-modern appeal of the Freeform collection and appreciate the many styles and chic color options. All things considered, this luggage set is very reasonably priced, and the brand's 10-year warranty can give you peace of mind about your purchase.

The Details: 2 pieces (21-inch and 28-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | Expandable

Best Overall, Runner-up

Away luggage set.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Design 4.6 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Away offers discounted two- or three-piece suitcase sets and backs them with a limited lifetime warranty.

The price of this luggage set varies based on your selections.

Away gives you the option to build a set of two or three bags, with a discount of $50 or $100, respectively. We were generally impressed with the pieces we tested , particularly the brand's suitcases. The Large checked suitcase and The Carry-on both earned perfect scores thanks to spacious yet compact designs and enhanced durability. The hardside exteriors of the Bigger Carry-on Flex and Large Flex checked bag sustained zero dents from our bat swings, though we noticed a few scratches after pushing them off a table.

With dual compartments, expanders, compression systems, and dirty laundry bags, these suitcases make it easy to pack and stay organized. They're also a breeze to roll, thanks to the 360-degree spinner wheels. Away isn't the most affordable luggage, but the bundle-and-save deal is definitely worth considering. Plus, the brand has a generous 100-day return window and a lifetime warranty.

The Details: 2–3 pieces (21.7-inch or 22.7-inch, 26-inch, and/or 29-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | Expandable | Smart

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Most Durable

Delsey paris helium aero set.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.2 /5
• Durability 4.3 /5

These suitcases have glossy exteriors in your choice of jewel tones, and they don't scuff.

The carry-on isn't as smooth on all four wheels, and the handle feels somewhat flimsy.

We like the stylish and functional design of Delsey's Helium Aero collection. The jewel-toned suitcases will be easy to spot on a baggage carousel, and they won't show up scuffed or damaged. After hitting the bags multiple times with baseball bats, they showed no signs of damage — a sure indicator that they will survive all of your long-haul flights. This glossy hardside luggage set comes with a compact carry-on and a checked spinner suitcase . We didn't need the expanders to fit everything on our packing lists, but since there aren't many interior pockets, you might want to use packing cubes . 

These lightweight suitcases are generally easy to maneuver and turn on a dime. However, the carry-on was slightly rickety on all four wheels, and we thought the handle felt a little flimsy. This luggage brand is one of the most affordable we tried, and you'll save even more by buying a set. Helium Aero suitcases are also backed by a 10-year warranty.

The Details: 2-3 pieces (21-inch, 25-inch, and/or 29-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | Expandable

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Budget

Amazon basics hardside spinner set.

• Design 4 /5
• Value 4.7 /5

Amazon's luggage sets are not just affordable, they’re also durable with unexpectedly large capacities.

The suitcases don't have TSA locks or USB ports.

If you're looking for affordable luggage , Amazon Basics makes our favorite budget-friendly pieces, and you can save even more by buying it in sets of two or three. We were pleasantly surprised by the hardside spinner suitcases we tested. While we would have appreciated a few more pockets, we had no problem fitting everything on our list without the expanders, which increase the capacities by 15 percent.

Not only that, but the thick thermoplastic shells took our bat swings and shoves like a champ — no dents or scratches to speak of. Though rolling over the gravel wasn't the smoothest, these suitcases were easy to maneuver as well. They don't have USB ports or TSA locks, and the color options are somewhat limited. But considering the agreeable price point and three-year warranty, this is a pretty sweet deal for a luggage set.

The Details: 2-3 pieces (21-inch, 26-inch, and/or 30-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | Expandable

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Coolife Spinner Suitcase Set

• Capacity 4 /5
• Maneuverability 4 /5

Coolife Spinner Trolleys have strong yet flexible hard shells that resist dents, scratches, and scuffs.

They are not expandable.

Durability is essential for luggage, and Coolife doesn't disappoint. While this isn't the least expensive set on our list, the brand's two-piece Spinner Trolley Set includes a sizable checked suitcase and a carry-on that prove durable and long-lasting. These suitcases are made of ABS+PC (acrylonitrile butadiene and polycarbonate), a super-strong thermoplastic blend. After whacking the carry-on with a bat and shoving it off multiple surfaces, there was no visible damage.

These suitcases aren't expandable. However, the slightly flexible hardside exterior and stretchy cross bands made it easy to stuff in everything on our packing list in organized compartments. And the bags have TSA locks for an extra layer of protection. The four-wheel design is a piece of cake to maneuver, too, though it doesn't roll as smoothly on two wheels. Though Coolife's two-year warranty is relatively short, we wouldn't be surprised if this luggage set lasted several years. Considering the affordable price, you'll get plenty of bang for your buck.

The Details: 2 pieces (20-inch and 28-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels

Best Lightweight

Kenneth cole reaction out of bounds hardside suitcase set.

These bags both have spacious two-compartment interiors while remaining lightweight.

The hard shells are prone to minor scuffs.

If you tend to overpack , lightweight luggage can help balance out your load. The Kenneth Cole Out of Bounds two-piece set comes with a 5.7-pound carry-on and a 9.6-pound checked suitcase. While they look small, the two-compartment interiors are surprisingly spacious. After packing the checked suitcase with enough stuff to get through a week-long trip, the spinner wheels still turned sharply and moved smoothly on hard floors and carpet.

The sleek yet rugged hardside exterior survived drops and bat hits during testing, sustaining only minor scuffs. These lightweight, durable, and stylish suitcases are an excellent value as is, but you'll save even more by buying them as a bundle. Plus, Kenneth Cole backs the set with a 10-year warranty.

Best Expandable

Travelpro platinum elite hardside set.

• Capacity 4.9 /5
• Durability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

Backed by a lifetime warranty, these smooth-rolling suitcases are notably spacious with built-in expanders.

You won't save money by purchasing the luggage as a set.

All of the Travelpro luggage models we tested earned high ratings, but the Platinum Elite hardside collection might be our favorite. This two-piece set includes a matching carry-on and checked bag, each with spacious, expandable capacities. You can also add matching bags like the underseat duffel or rolling garment bag for a more complete set that fits every travel occasion. We could fit every last item on our list with room to spare, and the expanders add another two inches to the depth. The various pockets, zipper panels, and cross straps help with packing, too.

While we noticed a couple of superficial marks after whacking and shoving the suitcases, they didn't dent or scratch. The carry-on rolled a little better on two wheels than four, but otherwise, the Platinum Elite line is very easy to maneuver. Another thing to note is that buying the suitcases as a set isn't actually more affordable than purchasing them separately. Still, we think the price is fair and appreciate the 100-day return policy and lifetime warranty.

The Details: 2 pieces (23-inch and 30-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | Expandable | Smart

Best Maneuverability

Delsey paris chatelet air 2.0 set.

The classically stylish suitcases are easy to maneuver over any surface.

They do not expand, so they can be difficult to pack.

If you're looking for a stylish luggage set that includes plenty of storage options, security locks, and easy-to-maneuver 360-degree wheels, consider the Delsey Paris Chatelet set. Whether you're interested in a carry-on and 28-inch checked bag , a 24-inch and 28-inch checked bag , or all three , this collection is perfect for every adventure. Despite their light, sleek coloring, all three bags survived being hit with bats multiple times without so much as a scratch during testing. In fact, after we checked them on multiple international flights, the 21-inch carry-on and 24-inch medium checked bag both survived with minimal scuffs that we could easily wipe away.

We also loved the bags' four 360-degree wheels that make rolling an absolute breeze. Throughout three months of real-world testing, we found ourselves running through airports, maneuvering onto escalators, and pulling the suitcases over curbs, sand, dirt, and asphalt without any issues whatsoever. And when it comes to lifting, the Chatelet set proved to be lightweight. Plus, the handles quickly slide back into the case, so you don't skip a beat going from pulling to carrying. We brought this set on planes, trains, and even cruise ships, and the suitcases easily navigated every surface and fit in every small corner.

The Details: 2 or 3 pieces (21-inch and 28-inch; 24-inch and 28-inch; or 19-inch, 24-inch, and 28-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Best Trunk Set

July trunk set.

We love the glossy exterior of these stylish matching trunks.

These trunks tend to acquire black scuffs, but in our experience, you can wipe them off easily.

These compact trunks are slightly smaller than other travel trunks , but for those who prefer this shape to traditional suitcases, the July Trunk Set is a great option. Both bags are sufficiently spacious and fit our entire packing lists, although we did need to do some strategic arranging in order to easily close the trunks. We do love that each trunk is designed with two durable clips to latch them closed as opposed to zippers, and each latch is built with a TSA-compliant lock right into the device.

Like much of July's luggage , these trunks are both extremely portable as they're relatively light. But that doesn't mean they're flimsy — the glazed polycarbonate shells are durable and only sustained minor dents after we hit each trunk with a bat multiple times. During long-term testing, we noticed that these trunks tend to scuff easily, but it's not hard to remove the marks by wiping them off. Plus, the interior nylon lining is water-resistant and stain-proof, enhancing the sets' longevity.

The Details: 2 pieces (21.7-inch and 28.25-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels

Best Eco-friendly

Paravel aviator set.

• Design 4.9 /5

These durable, carbon-neutral suitcases are made of recycled materials and aircraft-grade aluminum.

We wish each side of the suitcase was a bit deeper to fit bulkier items.

Looking for eco-friendly luggage? Paravel is your best bet. Not only are these some of the most elegant suitcases out there, the brand is also dedicated to keeping its suitcases carbon-neutral , the brand offsets emissions at every point, from sourcing and assembly to shipping and delivery. We tried the Aviator Carry-on Plus and Grand Checked models, which are made of recycled materials and exceptionally durable aircraft-grade aluminum.

Though they don't expand, we loved the spacious compartments, dividers, pockets, compression panels, and removable laundry bags. For long trips, these suitcases were especially helpful since they are so light, you can really pack them to capacity without wasting any precious weight on the shell itself. Both suitcases stood up to our durability tests and only showed minor scuffing after being checked during six different flights. They were also easy to push, pull, and roll over multiple surfaces. The sophisticated aesthetic doesn't hurt either. While Paravel's price range is slightly steep, the brand backs its luggage with a 10-year warranty.

The Details: 2 pieces (21.7-inch and 28-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels

Best Design

Béis hardside luggage set.

• Design 4.8 /5

Béis suitcases have roomy compartments, zippered sections, multiple pockets, laptop sleeves, and separate pouches for shoes or laundry.

The lighter colors may show scuffs.

Béis is already known for its accessible price points, but you can save 10 percent on a set of two hardside suitcases or 15 percent on three. Founded by actress Shay Mitchell , the brand is among the best for organization. Earning perfect scores for capacity, organization, design, and maneuverability during our tests, these are some of the easiest bags to pack and help keep your items easy-to-access throughout your whole vacation. We tried the Carry-on Roller and Large Check-in Roller, each with two roomy interior compartments, a zippered mesh section, multiple smaller pockets, a padded laptop sleeve, and a separate pouch for shoes or dirty clothes.

The suitcases are also conveniently expandable, and four-point compression straps help keep everything in place. The hard shells feel sturdy and thick yet flexible, and we only noticed a small scuff after hitting them with a bat. Béis luggage is easy to push on its spinner wheels, and we had no problem lifting it overhead. A 90-day return policy and a lifetime warranty are icing on the cake of an all-around great luggage set, and it's possible to add other smaller bags like weekenders in coordinating colors, too.

The Details: 2–3 pieces (21-inch, 26-inch, and/or 29-inch) | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | Expandable

• PHOTO: TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson
• PHOTO: TripSavvy / Tamara Staples

Other Luggage Sets We Liked

We have a few more luggage sets we feel confident recommending after testing, although we didn't like them quite as much as the others on our list.

Antler Brixham Set : We love that these softside bags are shockingly strong and let you squeeze in more items than more structured hardside suitcases. However, they have a fairly basic design without additional pockets or storage compartments.

Travelpro Roundtrip Carry-on/Medium Check-in Hardside Set : We like this set for how spacious and stylish the suitcases are, but the checked size held up much better than the carry-on in our durability tests; when we hit the carry-on with the baseball bat, the reinforced corner of the suitcase chipped and flew off.

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

The Travel + Leisure team has tested more than 450 pieces of luggage in the lab, our New York City testing facility that features an airplane set with a real row of seats and overhead bins. To see how they'd hold up in a real-life setting, we packed them full of clothing and other items; rolled them over hard floors, carpet, and gravel; placed them in an overhead bin ; hit them with a metal baseball bat; and shoved them off tables.

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

After awarding each model a score for capacity, maneuverability, durability, design, and value, we narrowed it down to those with the highest average ratings. The winners of this roundup not only performed well in the lab and during six months of real-world travels but are also available in matching sets. We will update this article as we continue to test even more luggage sets that we like.

Tips for Buying a Luggage Set

Decide if you want hardside or softside.

You'll see many hardside and softside options when browsing luggage sets. Rigid exteriors offer better protection against crushing, and while lighter colors are often prone to scuffing, they're easy to wipe clean. Softside suitcases are sometimes trickier to clean, but they conceal dirt and scuffs (and can be just as durable as hardside models). Softside suitcases are a bit more flexible when packing, too.

Only get what you need

It might be tempting to buy a luggage set with three or even four pieces, especially if it's available at a discount. However, we recommend getting only what you need and know you'll use. Two suitcases are plenty for most individual travelers, but you may need more if you're traveling as a family, with a partner, or heading on an extended trip.

Look for luggage that you can nest

Some luggage sets are designed in a way that allows you to nest the smaller pieces inside the larger pieces. This is ideal for storage so that you only have to find space in your home for one large suitcase rather than two or three various sizes. The product listings will sometimes indicate this, like when Away's carry-on suitcases note "Nests in checked." If it does not say this in the product description, use your judgement and try to get two bags with a significant size difference so that you can try to fit one inside the other, like fitting a 21-inch carry-on suitcase inside a 28-inch checked bag, like our best overall Samsonite suitcases in this article.

Prioritize well-made items

Even the least expensive luggage sets are an investment, so you want to choose a long-lasting design. It's important to select high-quality luggage that can withstand rough baggage handlers and other stresses of travel while protecting all of your items. When looking for a new luggage set, you should prioritize durable cases that won't scuff or tear, sturdy wheels that can handle the bag's weight, comfortable handles that won't break, and quality interiors that will keep everything you pack safe.

Is hardside better than softside?

Many travelers appreciate the crush-resistant exterior of hardside suitcases , especially if they're traveling with tech equipment or want to avoid wrinkling delicate clothing. The rigid exteriors are also easy to clean and flaunt a sleek, modern appearance.

That said, softside luggage can be very durable, plus it's easier to stuff full and often has external pockets where hardside models don't. The choice is ultimately a matter of personal preference, though all of our winning sets in this article happen to be hardside suitcases.

What are the benefits of luggage sets?

Oftentimes, buying sets can save you money since many luggage brands offer suitcase sets at a discount. However, other companies simply bundle pieces to demonstrate the ability to build your own matching set, which can be helpful when searching for your bag at a luggage carousel. If a discount isn't mentioned when you're buying a luggage set, you can add up the individual bag prices and compare that total to the bundled price to see if it's a better deal.

What usually comes in a luggage set?

Most sets include two or three pieces of luggage with at least one carry-on item and one checked item. Sets that offer three bags usually provide an additional checked bag of a different size. If you're a frequent traveler, heading off on a long adventure, or traveling with family, you may want a three-piece luggage set to give yourself more options and packing space while maintaining the convenience of matching.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, commerce writer Theresa Holland combed through our luggage testing insights, researched each brand, checked warranties and return policies, and crunched the numbers on buying luggage sets versus individual pieces. Theresa has extensive experience writing about travel-essentials and other commerce topics.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

Amazon Basics Luggage Review (Is It A Good Affordable Alternative?)

In this Amazon Basics Luggage review, we’re going to check out all the features and value of the Amazon Basics luggage.

Just like selecting a new travel partner, picking the right luggage can shift your journey from turmoil to tranquility.

But somehow,  AmazonBasics Hardside luggage manages to hold its own in many situations. Find out whether it’s a great fit for you on your next journey.

AmazonBasics Luggage: The Product Range

There are a few different types of luggage in the AmazonBasics range.

There are 2 hardshell suitcases .

• one has a textured finish
• the other has a shiny finish
• an upgraded Polycarbonate hard shell with TSA-lock

All other features are the same, so both suitcases will be covered in one section of the review.

The other 2 pieces of softshell luggage are the;

• softshell suitcase
• the underseat carry-on

With these 2 products, there is less variety than with the hard shells, most likely because they are less popular.

AmazonBasics Warranty

All of their luggage is covered by AmazonBasics Three-Year Limited Warranty, except for the underseat carry-on, which is backed by Amazon’s 1-year warranty .

The warranty covers any manufacturing defects, so if you receive a faulty product, you can exchange it immediately. However, the warranty does not cover any damage caused by transport, and it does not apply to residents outside of the United States.

Top Product Overview

Amazonbasics luggage: the hardsides.

First, let’s talk about the differences between the Amazonbasics hardside spinner luggage, as well as common characteristics

AmazonBasics Hard Side Spinner Luggage Differences

The main difference between the two hard shells is the finish . Both suitcases are made of extra-thick ABS , but one has a textured finish, which is supposed to make the scuffs and scratches less visible. The other hardshell has a shiny finish that is supposed to be more aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, the textured luggage is available in a wider range of colors than the shiny one.

You also probably noticed that the dimensions differ significantly . This is because, when listing the dimensions of the shiny luggage, Amazon included the height of the handle . The shipping weights of the respective sizes of the suitcases are virtually the same, which wouldn’t be the case if there really was such an actual size difference in the cases.

Common Characteristics

• Spinner wheels . Both hard shell versions are equipped with double spinner wheels, which is a rare, but very much appreciated inclusion, particularly when looking at affordable luggage (usually only the big guns with high price tags have them). These kinds of wheels mean that you don’t have to tilt your suitcase to get the wheels rolling. In fact, you can push the suitcase, pull it or even roll it alongside you, which puts much less strain on your arms and shoulders.
• Expandable by 15% . All 6 suitcases we are looking at here are expandable, which is a big plus. The expansion zipper is right next to the closure zipper and it’s barely noticeable, which is a good thing. However, there is nothing that will help you distinguish between the 2 zippers, so you might end up mixing them up the first few times. (I do that on my Delsey all the time)
• Telescopic wheel handle . The wheel handle extends 11”-20”, depending on the size of the suitcase. It can be locked once extended, as well as when it is not in use. Unfortunately, it appears that the handle can’t be locked to different height settings, which means that not everyone will get a perfect fit (If you want that kind of handle you need to get a far more expensive  suitcase ). As well as this handle, the luggage is also equipped with  2 carry handles , on the top, and on one side.  All kinds of standards for luggage these days.
• Two packing compartments . The interior of both hard shells is fully lined with 150D-polyester and features 2 packing compartments. The bottom compartment has elastic straps to keep your belongings in place. On the other side, the top compartment has a zippered divider (always a bonus!) with 3 zippered pockets for any smaller things you want to keep separate. If organization is your biggest concern, I believe these suitcases won’t let you down.
• TSA-Locks . Amazon has upgraded this luggage over the years to include TSA-friendly locks on many of their hard shell suitcases. Some of the cheaper ABS models do not have locks, so be sure to check the specs.

Now, let’s check each size’s specifications and prices.

Textured Hardside 21"

Product Information

• Outer Dimensions: 14.9 x 10 x 21.6 Inches
• Interior Dimensions: 13.3 x 9.6 x 18.5 Inches
• Weight: 7.34 llbs

AmazonBasics Upgraded 21" Carry-on

This model has been upgraded since the original AmazonBasics. It now uses Polycarbonate instead of ABS which is lighter but just as robust.

Amazon has also added a TSA-friendly lock on the suitcase which is a must for modern travel.

Textured Hardside 26"

• Body Dimensions: 11” x 24” x 18”
• Weight: 9.4 lbs

Textured Hardside 30"

• Body Dimensions: 13” x 28” x 21”
• Weight: 11.8 lbs

Shiny Hardside 22"

• Outer Dimensions: 14.1 x 9.8 x 22 Inches
• Interior Dimensions: 13.1 x 9.2 x 18.5 Inches
• Weight: 6.79 lbs

Shiny Hardside 26.7"

• Outer Dimensions: 16.9 x 10.6 x 26.7 Inches
• Interior Dimensions: 15.7 x 10.2 x 22.8 Inches
• Weight: 8.73 lbs

AmazonBasics Luggage: The Softsides

AmazonBasics luggage features one softshell suitcase, in 4 different sizes. The 2 smaller sizes are carry-ons, and the 2 larger versions are checked luggage. Let’s take a look at their basic specifications.

These are basically the same size as the hardshells, but they are lighter. That’s always a benefit of softshell luggage, as well as the fact that it is more flexible. A 21” softshell could fit into a space in which a 21” hardshell couldn’t fit because the soft shell can be collapsed a little so that the suitcase can be squeezed into a tight space.

Features Of The Softshell Luggage

• Spinner wheels . They really add value to the softshell suitcases, so it’s a good thing that the AmazonBasics softsides feature double spinner wheels. They will provide you with excellent maneuverability of your suitcase, and allow you to push/pull/roll your suitcase however you want. Additionally, these wheels put much less strain on your arms and shoulders, so you can say goodbye to painful trips to the airport.
• Expandable by 25%.  All 4 softshells can be expanded up to 25%. Additionally, if you over pack your suitcase, you’ll see that they can probably be expanded even further. This is because the soft shell conforms to the shape of your clothing, even when the suitcase is overflowing. But to get back to the point, being able to expand the capacity of your suitcase is always a bonus, so kudos to Amazon for remembering to include this feature.
• Exterior pocket . I wouldn’t really call this a pocket, but rather an exterior compartment. It is quite large, and you can store things in it that you want to have easy access to. The first thing that comes to mind is a laptop; however, since there is no lock on this pocket, maybe it wouldn’t be such a great idea to store expensive electronics in it (if it’s not going to be in your sight all the time).
• Telescopic wheel handle . The wheel handle extends and locks to one height setting. Not everyone will find that the height of the handle fits them perfectly, so do check the measures before you purchase anything. A handle that is too short or too long kind of defeats the purpose of the amazing double spinner wheels. In addition to that, there are also 2 carry handles  on the suitcase – on the top, and on its side.
• One packing compartment . This is quite common for softshell luggage. The AmazonBasics suitcase has a single, fully lined packing compartment. There are 3 zippered pockets inside the suitcase, which will help you stay organized during your travels. However, the tie-down straps in the compartment are somewhat weird – they are not elastic, but rather firm. When you want to secure your items you have to tighten the straps manually. I’m not a fan of this feature because if you put too much pressure on your clothing, it will unavoidably get wrinkled.

Let’s now check each size’s specifications and prices.

Shiny Hardside 30.7"

Softside Spinner 18.5"

• Outer Dimensions: 13.5 x 9.2 x 18.5 Inches
• Interior Dimensions: 12.6 x 7.4 x 14.5 Inches
• Weight: 5.18 lbs

Softside Spinner 21"

• Outer Dimensions: 14.7 x 9 x 21 Inches
• Interior Dimensions: 13.7 x 7.8 x 17.32 Inches
• Weight: 5.51 lbs

Softside Spinner 25.9"

• Outer Dimensions: 16.1 x 10.6 x 25.9 Inches;
• Interior Dimensions: 15.1 x 9 x 22 Inches
• Weight: 6.83 lbs

AmazonBasics Luggage: The Underseat Carry On

The underseat carry-on comes in 2 different designs; a Navy Blue version, and a Navy Blue Quilted one. Their dimensions and everything else about them are exactly the same, so let’s go into the details of these bags.

Exterior Of The Underseat Carry On

The bag is  made of polyester fabric , and it has  several exterior pockets . This makes it perfect for a carry-on because it allows you to organize your things, and keep the most important items handy. The size of the bag also makes it perfect for a carry-on, as it can fit in most airline overhead compartments, as well as under the seats. Additionally, the bag also features a slit on its back, which allows you to secure it to the handle of your suitcase.

On the exterior of the bag, you will also find  skate wheels , coupled with a  telescopic pull handle  that locks with the push of a button when it’s extended. This is the part that I like the most – even though it’s a small bag, sometimes you simply don’t have the energy to carry it around. When such a time comes, just pull out the handle and pull it behind you (like a boss). However, there is a pair of  carrying handles , which appear to be very sturdy. The wheels are not a spinner, which is kind of what I expected anyway.

Interior Of The Underseat Carry On

On the inside, the AmazonsBasics bag is  fully lined with nylon . The  main compartment is quite roomy , and you can fit all the items you might need during the flight in it. Additionally, I’m pretty sure you could fit a day or two’s worth of clothing in there, so this could also serve as a backup for some very short trips.

There are  2 breathable mesh pockets and 2 small pockets , all of which are zippered. They are great for storing jewelry, pens, or any other small items that you are likely to misplace in a large suitcase.

Softside Spinner 30.9"

• Outer Dimensions: 17.5 x 12.9 x 30.9 Inches; Interior Dimensions: 16.5 x 10.6 x 26.7 Inches
• Weight: 7.87 lbs

Underseat Luggage 14"

• Body Dimensions: 13.39 x 9.45 x 14.17”
• Weight: 6.55 lbs (shipping weight)

AmazonBasics Luggage: The Verdict

Overall, the AmazonBasics luggage appears to be a great cheap alternative. One thing I didn’t mention earlier –  all the suitcases can be purchased in sets of 2 or 3 , and they are even cheaper that way. For less than $150 you could equip yourself with 3 suitcases, which sounds like a really good deal to me.

• Outer dimensions (including wheels): 14.7 x 9 x 21 Inches (21-Inch), 16.1 x 10.6 x 25.9 Inches (25.9-Inch), 17.5 x 12.9 x 30.9 Inches (30.9-Inch); Interior dimensions: 13.7 x 7.8 x 17.32 Inches (21-Inch), 15.1 x 9 x 22 Inches (25.9-Inch), 16.5 x 10.6 x 26.7 Inches (30.9-Inch)
• Interior capacity: 31 Liters (21-Inch), 50 Liters (25.9-Inch), 77 Liters (30.9-Inch)

• Outer dimensions (including wheels): 14.1 x 9.8 x 22 Inches (22-Inch), 16.9 x 10.6 x 26.7 Inches (26-Inch), 19.6 x 12.4 x 30.7 Inches (30-Inch); Interior dimensions: 13.1 x 9.2 x 18.5 Inches (22-Inch), 15.7 x 10.2 x 22.8 Inches (26-Inch), 18.3 x 11.8 x 27.36 Inches (30-Inch)
• Interior capacity: 37 Liters (22-Inch), 60 Liters (26.7-Inch), 97 Liters (30.7-Inch)

• 3-piece set of hardside spinner luggage (21-inch, 26-inch, and 30-inch) for work travel, vacations, or as international carry-on
• Reliable strength with extra-thick ABS hard shell, scratch resistant Black finish, and fully lined 150D-polyester interior

The  hardshells are obviously my favorite , especially the textured ones. I’m a big fan of bright colors, and there are plenty of them to choose from in Amazon’s range. The only downside of the hardshells is that they don’t have a lock, but if you can overlook that, these would make a great investment.

• 21" SPINNER: Perfectly sized to meet carry-on restrictions for both domestic and international travel.
• EXPANDABLE SPACE: Enjoy up to 25% more packing capacity with expandable design, maximizing your packing potential.

The softshells have a few advantages over the hardshells – the  lighter weight and the exterior compartments . However, the softshells don’t have a lock either, which really is a bummer. Nevertheless, they still have some amazing features such as the  spinner wheels and expandable capacity . If you are a fan of softshell luggage, definitely consider adding this one to your collection.

• Outer dimensions (including wheels): 16.1 x 10.6 x 25.9 Inches; Interior dimensions: 15.1 x 9 x 22 Inches
• Interior capacity: 50 Liters

The  underseat carry-on  is a great choice for anyone who’s looking for a  smaller in-cabin bag . It could also replace your carry-on suitcase if you’re going on a very short trip, and the telescopic handle  will remove all the hassle of having to carry it around. Additionally, it  has a ton of pockets  that really help with staying organized.

• The external dimensions are 13.39 * 9.45 * 14.17 inches
• Fits in most airline overhead compartments and under the seat in front of you

If you aren’t really impressed by the AmazonBasics luggage, then check out this review of the  best hardshell suitcases in 2018 . However, if you loved them as much as I did, then head over to Amazon – you can’t get them anywhere else!

Related Post:

The best luggage locks for travel, hardshell vs softshell luggage (how to choose).

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Luggage Week 2024: The Essential Guide to Suitcases and Bags

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Wherever you're headed—be it on a bucket list trip across the globe or a lowkey staycation in your own city—you're going to need luggage. Minimalists and overpackers alike need durable and easy-to-carry suitcases and bags to safely transport clothes, travel accessories , and any souvenirs picked up along the way. As travel editors, we have high expectations for our gear—requiring that reliable, long-lasting bags accompany us on every journey.

To zero in on the absolute best luggage to recommend to our readers, we put the newest and most talked-about luggage on the market from beloved brands like Away, Calpak, and Paravel to the test. After carefully evaluating each piece, we compared them to previously tested bags and longtime favorites. With this, we bring you our second annual Luggage Week: An honest review of the best checked suitcases, carry-ons, weekenders, and backpacks in the biz. Below, the tried-and-true luggage we strongly recommend to our readers and travelers everywhere for every type of adventure.

The testing process:

More than a dozen Condé Nast Traveler editors and contributors spent months (and in some cases, years) road-testing new and best-selling bags from top travel brands. These bags accompanied us near and far on planes, trains, buses, and cruises, from local staycations and Hamptons getaways to the Paris Olympics and Marlon Brando’s private island in French Polynesia . We packed these bags to the brim, lifted them into overhead bins, rolled them down cobblestone streets, and inspected every bump and scuff they endured. We considered each bag's weight, capacity, functionality, price point, and how well it held up after several trips. We also identified smart design features that make a bag stand out from its competitors, like having weight indicators, separate shoe compartments, or ample pockets. After traveling with each bag, we carefully reviewed them, keeping the aforementioned criteria in mind to determine which ones are worth your dollars, and a spot in our 2024 Luggage Week lineup. —Meaghan Kenny, commerce editor

Monos's Expandable Carry-On glides into New York City's The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel .

Our guide to Luggage Week

The essentials.

• Hard-shells vs. soft-sided bags

More bags to consider

Shop by brand.

• Long-standing favorites
• Accessories

Delsey Paris's Chatelet Air 2.0 carry-on

Briggs and Riley's Medium Expandable Spinner

Checked luggage

Checked bags are a staple for longer trips (anywhere from 10 to 14 days) and for anyone who wants or needs more room in their suitcase. We found durable options you won't have to worry about saying goodbye to at check-in.

Carry-on suitcases

Carry-ons are arguably the piece of luggage travelers pull out most often. These are the lightweight yet sturdy carry-ons we turn to time and time again.

Coming soon

Our favorite duffels, expandable totes, and garment bags to take on on weekend getaways, overnight stays, and use as a personal item on flights. These have smart features like separate shoe compartments, trolley sleeves, and adjustable straps.

Whether you're hopping on a bike, trekking across rugged terrain, sightseeing, shopping, or jetting off to a business meeting, the best travel backpacks give you the freedom to explore hands-free.

The great debate: hard-shell or soft-sided?

Hard-shell suitcases.

Hard-shell suitcases can handle the wear and tear of going through baggage claim. These are the sturdy cases that will last for years to come, from trunks to lightweight spinners.

Soft-sided bags

Soft-sided luggage is extremely durable and usually offers ample amount of exterior pockets that hard-shell cases typically don't have. The flexible fabric can also be maneuvered into small overhead bins or car trunks more easily.

Soft-sided luggage is trending—here's why

With top brands swapping shells for fabrics, the underdog choice is becoming trendy again. We're breaking down the advantages that are drawing so many travelers to the soft side.

Checking into The Carlyle ? Make sure to order a martini at Bemelmans.

Editors and contributors have tested dozens of suitcases over the years to put together a list of the very best.

Our favorite tote bags

From roomy canvas carryalls to sleek leather work bags, a good tote is a travel essential. These are the bags we bring for office commutes, beach trips, and souvenir shopping.

Personal items

We're breaking down what travelers need to know about size restrictions and airline guidance; plus, our editors' go-to bags. Here are the duffels, totes, and backpacks we bring on every flight.

Kids luggage

Investing in the best kids luggage won’t make traveling with children as easy as traveling without them, but it will make the whole endeavor a lot less chaotic. These are the bags frequent travelers trust for their little ones.

Travel experts' favorite brands

We've found our favorites, but we also wanted to know which luggage brands industry experts swear by. Seasoned travelers, adventure seekers, and digital nomads share their top picks.

Our readers' favorite brands

We asked, you answered: These are the best luggage brands to bring on your travels, according to Traveler readers. From Arlo Skye to Away, here are the brands you trust the most.

Béis's water-resistant pocket is great for storing beauty products, toiletries, or a still-damp bathing suit.

The Béis Carry-On is one of several pieces our editors fly with frequently; the Weekender is another favorite.

Our favorites from Calpak

Our editors have tried out a variety of bags and travel accessories from Calpak and we've never been disappointed. Here's the functional and sleek luggage from the brand that we love most.

Our favorites from Away

Mixing durability, dependability, and style, Away changed the way we look at packing. We rounded up our editors' most-used Away bags and accessories.

Our favorites from Béis

Actor and entrepreneur Shay Mitchell 's brand Béis has seen continued viral success since first launching a few years ago. Our editors have several favorite pieces from the brand, from roomy weekenders to a hands-free water bottle sling.

Our favorites from Amazon

Quality luggage usually comes with a hefty price tag, but luckily, you can find some great pieces on Amazon that are both affordable and built to withstand years of wear and tear. Find top-notch carry-ons, luggage sets, weekenders, and more.

Dagne Dover's first rolling collection

You're probably familiar with Dagne Dover ’s ubiquitous Dakota backpack . This past June, the brand launched its first-ever line of rolling luggage—and we're a little bit obsessed.

Calpak's Luka duffel is sleek, functional, and thoughtfully designed.

Our long-standing favorites

Madewell's leather tote is built to last.

Associate editor Matt Ortile has been traveling with Madewell's best-selling Transport Tote for years. It's functional, versatile, and built to last.

Calpak's Luka duffel keeps me organized

Calpak's popular Luka duffel has previously racked up a 44,000-person-deep waiting list. It's commerce editor's Meaghan Kenny's go-to duffel for weekend trips and to use as a personal item—yes, it fits under the seat in front of you.

The suitcase I've been using for nearly a decade

Traveler contributor Samantha Leal has flown over 400,000 miles with Away's original carry-on. It’s held up trip after trip, mile after mile.

Antler's overnight bag

Lauren Burvill , commerce editor for Condé Nast Traveller UK, swears by Antler's overnight bag. It's water-resistant, holds a ton, and features a laptop sleeve.

The viral Béis Weekender bag

Chances are, you've seen Béis's viral weekender bag all over social media. Senior commerce editor Madison Flager loves that it features a separate shoe compartment, a trolley sleeve, and a water-resistant lining.

Shown in beige

July's ultra-light carry-on

Australian luggage brand July has developed the world’s lightest carry-on. Weighing in under four pounds, the July Carry-On Light is a minimalist's dream.

Stubble & Co's adventure backpack

The Adventure Bag from Stubble & Co is perfect for weekend trips and long-haul flights. It features a separate waterproof shoe compartment, compression straps for maximum storage, and is large enough to replace your carry-on, making it a great option for more rugged trips.

Pond LA's functional tote bag

Pond LA's Transform Air tote is stylish, well designed, and so versatile. It can be worn four different ways: as a shoulder bag with its sturdy carry handle, as a crossbody with its longer adjustable strap, on top of your carry-on using its trolley sleeve, and—my personal favorite way—as a backpack.

My all-time favorite makeup bag

The Parallelle makeup bag is a total game changer for travel; my products have never been more organized, secure, and easy to reach. I finally found a cosmetic case that I actually love.

An ode to the Vera Bradley tote

There's something special and nostalgic about Vera Bradley's floral printed travel bags. Associate editor Charle Hobbs agrees—that's why he proudly carries around his grandmother's Vera Bradley tote.

Calpak's Clear Cosmetic Case comes in three sizes, so no matter how many steps are in your beauty routine, there's one to fit all your products.

Travel accessories

Packing cubes.

These Traveler -tested sets will save space and maintain order in your carry-on. We considered their size, how much they hold, and how compressive they are.

With the right toiletry bag, you can avoid spills, simplify your packing routine, and stay organized—no more digging around to find what you need. Even better, Dopp kits make it less likely that you'll forget any of the essentials at home.

Makeup bags

The best travel makeup bags keep your beauty and skincare essentials secure and organized while in transit, and help protect the rest of your belongings from accidental spills and leaks. Whether you're looking for a small pouch for a weekend's worth of essentials or a well-organized case for a destination wedding , we have a cosmetic bag that will hold everything you need.

Tech organizers

Whether you’re working remotely or not, chances are you’re bringing your entire digital setup with you on most trips. With these smart tech organizers, you never have to worry about tangled cords or missing chargers.

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The 15 Best AmazonBasics Luggage Bags & Backpacks [2024]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

823 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

44 Published Articles 3391 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 50 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Why buy amazonbasics, the 8 best amazonbasics luggage, the 5 best amazonbasics backpacks, the 3 best amazonbasics bags, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

AmazonBasics offer a great-looking range of practical suitcases, travel bags, and backpacks that are designed for travelers on a budget who don’t want to compromise on quality.

Clever design features, durable materials, and affordable price tags make the brand one of the very best for anyone looking for great-value luggage pieces.

The online retail giant Amazon launched the AmazonBasics brand back in 2009 to offer a range of basic electronic products that modern consumers crave at very affordable prices.

These products included electronic cables, blank DVDs, and other electronic peripherals and featured superfast delivery. Over the years, the AmazonBasics brand has extended the range to become a veritable emporium of everyday essentials, all available for very competitive prices .

Offering excellent value for money, AmazonBasics can keep the cost to consumers down by skipping on the expensive packaging and relying on the excellent reputation of the Amazon brand and its huge global reach.

When it comes to luggage, AmazonBasics offers a varied selection of suitcases, duffel bags, backpacks, laptop bags , and even packing cubes, all of which are designed to work incredibly well in the real world.

With smart colorways, textured finishes, and sleek good looks, the AmazonBasics range offers some of the same great features that you would expect to find in more expensive models.

Smooth-running 360-degree wheels, retractable telescopic handles, and TSA-approved locks come as standard on many of its pieces, and its laptop bags and backpacks are just as suitable for business users as they are for students and travelers.

Available in a range of sizes from compact carry-ons to family-sized suitcases, the AmazonBasics luggage collection offers everything you could need for your next adventure.

Hot Tip: Most pieces in the collection come with at least a 1-year warranty, and you can purchase matching sets to make the perfect luggage collection to cater to all of your travel needs. Consider purchasing your luggage with one of the best cards for extended warranty coverage for extra protection.

The AmazonBasics range offers a wealth of great travel accessories, but here are some of our absolute favorites.

1. A Rugged Suitcase for All Occasions

AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner, Carry-On, Expandable Suitcase Luggage with Wheels, 20 Inch

Dimensions: 13.58 x 9.45 x 20.87 inches

Weight: 7.34 pounds

Made from super-durable, extra-thick ABS, this hardside spinner suitcase is just the right size for a few days away, and its compact dimensions will easily comply with most airline carry-on restrictions . The scratch-resistant finish is available in a choice of black, blue, orange, and navy colorways, and the distinctive ridge design offers designer looks at affordable prices.

On the inside, the fully-lined interior comes complete with a zippered divider to help you make better use of the space, and the interior organizer section with 3 zippered pockets keeps smaller items tidy in transit.

For those all-important extra inches, this case expands up to 15% to ensure you can squeeze in extra items, and the strong, solid zipper ensures that your case stays shut, even when it’s full.

With 4 double-spinner wheels offering smooth-rolling mobility in any direction, and a telescoping handle for easy maneuverability, this little cabin case offers all the features of much more expensive models, while still leaving you enough cash in your wallet to spend when you get there. A great choice for travelers on a budget.

What We Like

• Great budget option and meets U.S. airline size requirements

What We Don’t Like

• Telescopic handle can sometimes stick when retracting

2. Designer Looks at Low Prices

AmazonBasics Vienna Spinner Luggage Expandable Suitcase With Wheels

Dimensions: 17.9 x 11.8 x 26.7 inches

Weight: 9.35 pounds

This handsome suitcase exudes designer good looks and ample storage space for everything you need for your next vacation. Also available in blue and red colorways and 21.6- and 30.7-inch options, this well-made, eye-catching case with upscale faux leather trims is anything but basic.

The exterior is made from ABS material with a micro-diamond finish for extreme scratch resistance, while the fully-lined interior is spacious and well-thought-out. With an easy clamshell opening and a selection of interior zipper pockets, you can pack and unpack quickly and easily knowing that even your smallest of items have a safe space in which to store them.

The 4 360-degree spinner wheels are quiet and smooth and can handle almost any surface, while the telescopic handle allows you to roll the case alongside you. Agile and practical, this is a beautiful-looking suitcase for fashion-conscious travelers who like to save money without scrimping on style.

• Stylish and comes in 3 beautiful colors
• No TSA lock included

Hot Tip: For more excellent choices for an extended trip, see our guide to the best checked luggage bags for any traveler .

3. Sleek Good Looks and Expandable Packing Space

AmazonBasics Oxford Expandable Spinner Luggage Suitcase with TSA Lock 28 Inch

Dimensions: 20.4 x 12.6 x 30.1 inches

Weight: 10.76 pounds

With sleek modern looks and a practical interior, the Oxford suitcase offers the perfect blend of stylish good looks and incredible usability. Also available in smart red, black, and blue colorways and a choice of 21.8- and 26.8-inch options, this suitcase is versatile enough to see you through many adventures.

With a scratch-resistant monochromatic patterned exterior and a rugged, functional design , this case has been built to withstand the bumps and knock of air travel.

The good-size interior is fully lined, giving the case an upscale feel, and the multiple zippered pockets ensure that there is a space for everything you want to take with you. When you need to throw in that little bit extra, the zipper expansion capability offers you as much as 15 percent more packing space when you need it the most.

With smooth-rolling spinner wheels, you can glide this case alongside you through the airport, and the telescoping handle makes it easy to find the perfect height for your ongoing comfort. The extendable handle comes complete with a handy push-button mechanism for easy lifting. Overall, this is a great-looking suitcase that is practical, affordable, and perfect for frequent flyers.

• Zippered expansion system for 15% more packing space
• Handles are not padded for comfortable use

4. An Expandable Softside for Extra Capacity

AmazonBasics Premium Expandable Softside Spinner Suitcase Luggage with TSA Lock and Wheels

Dimensions: 15.7 x 9 x 23.2 inches

Weight: 7.19 pounds

A premium suitcase without the premium price tag makes this sleek-looking suitcase perfect for business travelers and style-conscious travelers alike. Made from super-durable polyester material, this case has been built to withstand many miles of travel, and the molded corner guards and skid guards ensure your suitcase remains up to the job.

While this model is the perfect size carry-on companion, the range also features larger 25-, 27.7-, and 32-inch options , all available in a wide range of colors.

The large main compartment is deep enough to comfortably carry all your belongings, while the compression straps will keep everything neat and tidy on the go. The additional organizer pocket has mesh storage compartments that offer a safe space for your chargers, books, and other important travel items.

As you would expect from a premium spinner, the 360-degree wheels glide effortlessly and silently across the floor, and the telescoping handle makes it super easy to maneuver your way through even the busiest of airports.

Offering striking looks that belie the affordable price tag, and premium features like the support stabilizers that help to prevent the suitcase from tipping over, this is an awesome suitcase from AmazonBasics.

• Comes with an integrated TSA lock
• Has very little zipper expansion

5. Classic Clean Lines With This Sleek Carry-on

Amazon Basics Expandable Softside Carry-On Spinner Luggage Suitcase With TSA Lock And Wheels – 23 Inch

Dimensions: 23.2 x 15.7 x 9 inches

With its simple design and clean aesthetic, this cabin case offers the storage space and practicality you need for short trips away without worrying about check-in. Made from superstrong polyester and incredibly lightweight, this range is available in blue, red, grey, olive, red, and black colorways, as well as a larger 32-inch option.

The spacious main compartment has enough room to hold all of your essentials, and the tie-down straps will keep your belongings neatly packed in transit. It has a capacity of 36 liters.

With zippered compartments for smaller items and an external pocket for keeping your travel essentials close at hand, this lightweight rolling suitcase performs perfectly , while the top, bottom, and side handles allow you to lift this case into the overhead compartment with ease.

The 360-degree spinning wheels offer a smooth, fluid ride, and the telescoping handle feels strong and sturdy, making it easy to maneuver through the airport terminal. Expandable and with a sleek, modern look, this affordable suitcase is just as good as many of its more expensive counterparts.

• Lightweight and easy to roll, integrated TSA lock
• Not the most stylish

6. Best for Traveling Light

AmazonBasics Underseat, Carry-On Rolling Travel Luggage Bag With Wheels, 14 Inches

Dimensions: 13.39 x 9.45 x 14.17 inches

Weight: 4.7 pounds

Small but perfectly formed, this versatile and lightweight carry bag is just the right size for stashing under your seat when traveling. Offering easy access to all of your in-flight essentials, with the added bonus of spinner capabilities, this under-seat bag is perfect for savvy travelers who like to travel light.

With a good-size main compartment that offers plenty of space for a few changes of clothing, a spare pair of shoes, and your essential personal items, this is a compact alternative to a cabin case . With a front pocket for books, passports, and other essentials, you can keep everything close at hand during your journey.

The smooth-rolling wheels and long telescopic handle offer a smooth ride and easy maneuverability, while the clever pass-through strap on the bag offers the option of sliding the bag over the handle of your suitcase.

Compact dimensions offer useful additional storage for those who like to travel with just 1 bag, or anyone wanting to make a complete travel set for longer adventures.

• Handy front and side pockets for quick access to items
• No padded storage for a laptop

7. Extra Space for Epic Adventures

AmazonBasics Ripstop Rolling Travel Luggage Duffel Bag With Wheels

Dimensions: 37.5 x 18.25 x 16 inches

Weight: 11.9 pounds

For really epic adventures, this rolling duffel bag offers all the space you need for all your belongings, complete with the benefit of added wheels, which make it an extremely practical piece of luggage. Made from sturdy polyester with a 1680D ripstop base and a 210D lining , this clever rolling bag is more than capable of coping with whatever your next adventure throws at it.

The large main compartment has plenty of room for shoes, clothing, and all your other essential items, while the zippered front compartment is perfect for grabbing items you need easy access to. The large U-shaped zipper opening makes it easy to load and unload your bag in a hurry, and the end pockets offer a safe space for headphones, books, and other travel essentials.

Offering the flexibility of a duffel bag, you can choose to use the removable shoulder strap if you need to carry it over rough ground, or enjoy the smooth-rolling capabilities of a suitcase with 2 in-line style wheels and a retractable telescoping handle.

Spacious, stylish, and sleek, this is the perfect bag for camping trips, overseas adventures, and expeditions where only the most rugged luggage will do.

• U-shaped zipper opening for easy access to the internal compartment
• A little heavy for a duffle bag

8. Roomy Interior and Classic Good Looks

Amazon Basics Softside Spinner Suitcase

Dimensions: 13.5 x 9.2 x 18.5 inches

Weight: 5.18 pounds

This lightweight suitcase offers all the space you need for trips away, and the premium polyester exterior is more than capable of handling the stress and strains of frequent travel.

Available in a choice of black or navy colorways, this case is stylish and secure. On the inside, the large main compartment is complemented by an organization pocket that offers mesh storage and a zippered compartment for your smaller items. The adjustable compression straps help keep your clothes neatly folded in transit.

This case comes with strong zippers that are durable enough to remain secure even when fully loaded, and the side luggage feet will keep your case raised off the floor and clean if you need to set it down.

The telescoping handle is robust enough to allow you to maneuver easily across the concourse, and the 360-degree spinner wheels offer a smooth, quiet ride in any direction.

For easy access to your most important possessions on the go, the 2 exterior zippered pockets allow you to breeze through check-in, and the top, side, and bottom handles enable you to quickly retrieve your luggage from the carousel.

• 2 front pockets for easy access to your belongings
• Wheels aren’t recessed for extra protection

1. A Brilliant Basic Laptop Backpack

AmazonBasics Laptop Computer Backpack

Dimensions: 13.4 x 7 x 19.3 inches

Weight: 1.98 pounds

This great laptop backpack offers a ton of useful storage compartments in a sleek-looking backpack that won’t break the bank. This backpack is an excellent choice for the daily commute, business trips away, or even school or college, and has a laptop compartment large enough to safely house screens up to 17 inches .

As well as the dedicated laptop sleeve compartment, this backpack also features numerous zippered compartments and an organizational sleeve for keeping your pens, keys, and cell phone safe on the go.

The external mesh pockets are the right size for holding drink bottles, while the front U-zip pocket has enough space for the essentials you need to access quickly.

To ensure your continued comfort while traveling, this sleek-looking backpack comes complete with adjustable and heavily padded shoulder straps that help keep that backpack comfortable even when fully loaded with all of your gear.

There is also a mesh compartment on the shoulder strap that offers super-quick access to your cell phone while you walk for even more practicality and convenience.

• Separate padded laptop compartment
• No sternum strap for comfortable carrying

2. A Super-stylish Backpack for Your Camera Gear

Amazon Basics Backpack for SLR Cameras and Accessories

Dimensions: 11.75 x 8.75 x 14.5 inches

Weight: 1.96 pounds

Stylish and functional, this backpack has a premium look and feel about it and is the perfect camera bag to carry your gear on your travels. Available individually or in combination with an AmazonBasics tripod, this handy backpack will carry your equipment safely, whether you’re an amateur photographer or a seasoned pro.

The cleverly designed interior comes with interchangeable Velcro dividers to suit your equipment and desired layout. Smaller internal zipper pockets provide somewhere safe for your SD cards, cables, and spare batteries.

There is also a front storage pocket that offers easy access to your most used items, and a Velcro side pocket for your cell phone.

Other great features of this awesome backpack are the exterior adjustable straps on the side of the bag that can be used to attach a tripod and the front bungee cords for additional items.

The padded and adjustable shoulder straps are comfortable to carry even the heaviest of camera gear, with the added bonus of sternum and waist straps for greater weight distribution.

• Side straps for carrying a tripod
• A back access main compartment would keep camera equipment safer

3. The Perfect Backpack for the Sporty and School-Bound

Amazon Basics Sport Laptop Backpack

Dimensions: 18.75 x 8.3 x 13 inches

Weight: 1.31 pounds

Even the sporty like to stay connected, and this sleek-looking backpack has plenty of space to keep your tech safe while you travel. Made from durable, water-resistant material , this is the perfect backpack for the gym, college, or the everyday commute.

With a selection of different-sized pockets and compartments, you can easily organize your gear on the go. With a soft-lined laptop compartment, padded cell phone pocket, 2 side bottle pockets and a bottom pocket for shoes, this backpack will keep all of your belongings secure.

With padded and adjustable shoulder straps, you can be assured of a comfortable carry no matter how long your journey is, and the top-loading design offers easy access to your belongings in an instant.

• Multiple external pockets and side pockets to hold water bottles
• No luggage strap to carry over suitcase handles, shoe compartment is unvented, only comes in graphite

4. 2-in-1 Backpack and Carry-on

AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack

Dimensions: 15.75 x 21.5 x 8.25 inches

Weight: 3.64 pounds

Designed with travelers’ needs in mind, this modern-looking backpack is a practical alternative to a traditional briefcase, laptop bag, or carry-on. Made from durable polyester and available in black, navy, or red colorways, this larger-than-average backpack is perfect for business trips and everyday commutes to the office.

The roomy main compartment comes complete with double zippers for added security and external compression straps to help the backpack retain its shape. The zippered mesh compartment helps keep your items well-organized on the go.

The backpack also offers a front pocket for easy access to your travel documents, as well as a briefcase-style organizer with sleeves, zippered pockets, and a key clip.

With adjustable straps for added versatility, you can use the padded shoulder straps to carry on your back with extra support from the adjustable sternum strap, or remove these and use the removable shoulder strap for carrying like a tote bag.

The AmazonBasics travel backpack is an incredibly practical bag that can be used for both business and pleasure at a very affordable price.

• Has a removable sternum strap and waist belt
• Internal compartment could do with some more pockets

1. An Awesome Camera Bag at a Very Affordable Price

AmazonBasics Large DSLR Camera Gadget Bag

Dimensions: 12.75 x 8 x 9.75 inches

Weight: 1.78 pounds

Perfect for keeping your beloved DSLR camera safe in transit, this camera bag has been designed to ensure that your gear can be carried with you everywhere you go. Made from strong and durable materials, this compact camera bag offers plenty of internal space to keep your camera and accessories safe and organized wherever you are headed.

The main compartment has a padded and removable organizer that can be customized to fit the size of your camera body , as well as offering enough space for up to 3 separate lenses and other accessories. There is also a padded slot to the rear that is just right for keeping your tablet or e-reader safe in transit, as well as dedicated from pockets for your cell phone and other essentials.

This bag also features an adjustable and heavily padded shoulder strap to help keep it comfortable no matter how long you need to carry it, and there are also adjustable straps on the exterior to attach and carry a tripod.

• Removable dividers to customize the internal compartment
• Strap clips squeak loudly when walking

2. A Practical Duffel for Every Occasion

Amazon Basics Large Nylon Duffel Bag

This duffel bag offers a roomy interior and practical storage space wrapped up in a simple and classic design. Made from durable yet lightweight nylon , this duffel can hold up to an impressive 50 pounds worth of clothes. This is an awesome alternative to a carry-on case or backpack available in black, blue, or red colorways.

On the inside, the large main interior has plenty of room for clothing, shoes, and personal items, and there’s a zippered pocket for smaller items. The exterior zippered pockets are just the right size for keeping your cell phone, boarding pass, and other important travel documents close at hand.

With 2 loop handles and a heavy-duty, adjustable shoulder strap, you can carry this bag in 1 of 2 ways, and the reinforced bottom panel helps the bag stay super strong, even when it is packed full of your belongings.

• Folds up small for easy storage
• No frame inside so doesn’t hold its shape unless full

3. A Shoulder Bag With a Difference

AmazonBasics 15.6 Inch Laptop and Tablet Case Shoulder Bag

Dimensions: 15.5 x 2.8 x 12 inches

Weight: 1 pounds

This clever little laptop bag can be adjusted to offer you as much space as you need for your next business trip or meeting. Available in either 15.6- or 17.3-inch options, you can easily carry your laptop, tablet, and other essentials with you, everywhere you go.

With the main compartment reserved for keeping your laptop safe, the additional storage spaces have been cleverly divided to offer organizational space for your phone, tablet, pens, cables, power cords, and other essentials.

With 2 padded loop carry handles and a removable shoulder strap, this laptop bag is incredibly versatile and a comfortable carry , while the pass-through strap at the back allows you to easily slide the bag over the handle of your suitcase.

• Has a luggage strap for attaching to a suitcase
• Larger laptop bag doesn’t accommodate some 17-inch laptops

AmazonBasics offer a select but very well-thought-out range of pieces that cover all the needs of modern-day travel for business or pleasure. While the quality of its bags and cases may not be designed to last forever, the low prices and superfast delivery makes them a convenient choice that is practical for everyday use or occasional vacations.

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9 Minimalist Luggage Bags That'll Fit Everything

Posted by SM SUPERMALLS on March 27, 2023

Pack your swimwear, sunscreen, and your 10-step skin regimen in these fuss-free suitcases!

With all the summer promotion and beach photos appearing on your feed, you have probably already planned and booked a few trips to beat the summer heat. As you continue to shop at SM for summer fits  and sashay the sikat ng araw with a tall cup of iced coffee ( here’s our café recos btw), you should also consider shopping for a new set of hand carry luggage/ suitcases that’ll fit all your OOTDs but won’t sacrifice your #aesthetic.  

If you’re on a budget, this is the perfect guide for you because these are all under Php 4,000 + a lot of the items that we have curated for this list are perfect for carry on! Talk about a #travellight summer! 

 1.  Up for an all-floral summer vibe? Here's a hard case luggage from Travel Basic to match your rose gold and silver aesthetic: 

Travel Basic KX TB Dolly 28-Inch Hard Case Luggage in Rose Gold / Silver  

₱3,199  

2. Sometimes, backpacks are not enough for all the sunscreens, outifts, and cameras that we want to bring with us for our trip. Enter: a lightweight luggage for the classic black lovers: 

Travel Basic Bryna Small Suitcase  

₱2,999  

3. Excited to reconnect with nature? Here's a durable medium suitcase that's perfect for a 5-day getaway! 

Travel Basic Bryna Medium Suitcase  

₱3,599  

4. To match the cerulean blue beaches:

Travel Basic Raxi Large Suitcase  

5. A lovely color to contrast your all-white OOTD: 

Travel Basic Brice Large Suitcase  

₱3,499  

6. Gray lovers, wya?: 

Travel Basic Erwan Suitcase Medium in Gray  

7. Pack light but make it cute and stylish: 

Travel Basic Ciao Vera Small Suitcase  

₱1,299 ₱2,599 Save 50% off  

8. A baggage that'll never go missing: 

Urban SK 7945 8W Small Hardcase Suitcase in Red  

₱3,199.88 ₱6,399.75 Save 50% off  

9. This shade of green will compliment your all-neutrals IG feed! 

Urban SK 7953 8W Small Hardcase Suitcase in Green  

Eyeing something already? Shop now because these minimalist luggage pieces are sturdy, reliable, and durable- can withstand the test of time and the elements!  

That said, whether you’re shopping for pasabuys or someone preparing to leave their emotional baggage ( yakap mahigpit ), you are always welcome here.  

Stay updated by following SM Supermalls on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Check out the mall entry guidelines and updates on mall hours here. You can also view the complete SM Directory  here .  

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The Best Luggage Sets, Tested by Experts

Coordinating carry-ons and checked bags that are worth the investment.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable luggage.

American Tourister Fieldbrook XLT Softside Upright Luggage

Best for Frequent Flyers

Travelpro platinum elite first class luggage set.

If you're headed on a long trip or just consider yourself an over-packer, you might need more than one bag for your belongings (not to mention space to overfill with souvenirs on the way home). Instead of lugging around a hodgepodge of pieces, consider a luggage set. There's nothing more chic and put together than carrying a coordinating set of suitcases from the best luggage brands , complete with carry-on and checked bags. And if you're vacationing with kids or family, traveling with a matching set is a great way to keep track of all your bags. But with so many options to choose from, including different types of materials and all kinds of organizational features, it can be difficult to decide which luggage sets will look great, hold up to frequent use and really be worth the splurge.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , we test all kinds of luggage from popular brands, including hardside suitcases , softside luggage , carry-ons , checked suitcases and more. We review the luggage in our Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab and share it with consumer testers who use it in their real lives. In recent years, we've tested suitcases from more than 80 brands. I used our testing data and categorical expertise when making my picks for the best luggage sets.

Samsonite consistently stands out in our Lab evaluations and has wowed our consumer testers . This luggage set includes two of our top-tested suitcases from the brand's Freeform collection — the smaller 21-inch carry-on model and the larger 28-inch checked bag. These suitcases are made of durable hardside material that performed well in our drop tests, resisting major damage after being released repeatedly at different angles from a set 3-foot height.

When we packed the suitcases with a standard load of items like clothing, shoes and accessories, we were impressed by how well everything fit inside with room to spare — even without having to use the 2-inch expansion system. One caveat: Some of our testers noted that the carrying handles on suitcases in this collection felt a bit tight, which made it more difficult to lift or lower the bags. However, the telescopic handles received higher scores for feeling sturdy and comfortable to use. Testers also appreciated how easily the suitcases navigated around twists and turns and said the 360-degree spinner wheels were smooth.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch and 28-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

At less than $100 for three pieces, this basic American Tourister trio is an absolute steal and one of the best affordable luggage sets out there. While the softsided carry-on, checked bag and personal item may be simple, they're still full of practical features that make traveling easier like plenty of external pockets, interior mesh pockets and compression straps to secure your belongings.

The brand's bags aren't as durable as others we've tested in the Lab, so I recommend this set for someone who isn't planning to fly frequently. According to one GH analyst who has used this set for nearly a decade, the bags have still held up well to repeated use. She added that the softside polyester material is slightly worn with some fraying and scuffs, but the bags are still useable, and the important features, like the telescopic handles and zippers, are in working condition. When we evaluated other suitcases from American Tourister, testers highlighted the smooth and stable wheels, and online reviewers say they roll nicely, despite only moving forward and backward.

Pieces: 3 | Sizes: 21-inch and 25-inch suitcases, 10-inch personal item | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Originally designed by a pilot for other pilots who are always on the go, Travelpro's luggage is the perfect pick for the frequent flyer, and I'm particularly impressed by the brand's Platinum Elite collection. The softside suitcases were some of the top performers in our durability tests , withstanding repeated dropping without dents or damage. The nylon material resisted signs of wear after being rubbed back and forth with our abrasion tester. They are heavier than many of the other bags we tested, but they are durable bags built to last.

The suitcases are thoughtfully designed with a tapered expansion system that prevents the bags from tipping over when full. Self-aligning spinner wheels let you push and pull in all directions, and cushioned handles with contoured grips add a comfortable feel. Plus, they're packed full of extras inside like expandable garment bags, toiletries bags and hidden USB ports to charge electronic devices (power bank not included). Our testers gave luggage in this collection high scores for ease of use and highlighted the sturdiness of the telescopic handle. If you're nervous about committing to the high price tag, the brand offers a 100-day return policy, even for used suitcases.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch and 25-inch suitcases | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 100 days, any reason

Amazon Basics 2-Piece Set Hardside Spinner

Not only does this two-piece luggage set from Amazon Basics have more than 35,000 five-star reviews, but it also earned high scores in our Lab evaluations and was loved by our testers. The carry-on and checked suitcase both unfold into two main packing compartments, one with compression straps to keep your belongings in place and another with a full zippered panel for even more security. When we packed the carry-on bag in the Lab, we fit an entire weekend's worth of gear including clothing, shoes and toiletries with room to spare. Plus, both of the suitcases expand for even more space.

The hardside suitcases are made of lightweight ABS plastic that keeps the price low, though it wasn't as scratch-resistant as some other suitcases we tested. It did hold up well in our drop tests though, with no serious denting or breakage after being released repeatedly from a set 3-foot height. When testers rolled the suitcases through our luggage obstacle course, around turns and over different surfaces from wood to carpeting, they were impressed by the maneuverability and wheel performance.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 20-inch and 28-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Calpak Ambeur 2-Piece Luggage Set

For luggage that looks as great as it performs, I recommend Calpak's Ambeur two-piece luggage set, which offers the best of fashion and function. Available in five fun metallic shades that are sure to stand out at baggage claim, the bags are made of a composite of polycarbonate and ABS plastic that aced our Lab tests for durability. They also proved water-resistant in our evaluations, but did show noticeable markings after we dragged a wire across the surface during our scratch-resistance tests.

The bags are GH-tester favorites and earned top marks for their performance in our luggage obstacle course which had testers pull the suitcases over different surfaces and around sharp turns. Testers especially loved the sturdy and easy-to-use telescopic handle. When we assessed the suitcases in the Lab, we were impressed by the zippers that opened and closed with ease. The spacious interior compartments were able to hold our entire packing load of items including clothing, shoes and toiletries. Both the carry-on and checked bag are expandable and equipped with zippered organizational pockets, compression straps and a removable toiletries bag. For even more organization, you can try Calpak's top-tested packing cubes too.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch and 29.5-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate and ABS composite | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Delsey Paris Helium DLX Softside Expandable Luggage

As the name implies, these Delsey Helium DLX suitcases are some of the lightest we've evaluated in the Lab. No more lugging around bulky bags or struggling to lift your carry-on into the overhead bin. Despite being so lightweight, these bags are tough. In our tests for durability, the luggage held up well after being released repeatedly in our drop tests, and the softside nylon material showed no signs of wear after being rubbed back and forth 15,000 times by our abrasion tester.

In our evaluations, we found the exterior zippers a bit tricky to use, and the bags received lower scores for maneuverability than other suitcases we tried, but they did earn high scores for their comfortable gripped telescopic handles and for being easy to pack. All three of the suitcases open into one primary packing compartment with compression straps, and the lids of each bag are equipped with zippered pockets and elastic sleeves for additional storage. There are removable bi-fold organizers inside as well. I particularly love that the linings can be unzipped and removed for easy cleaning.

Pieces: 3 | Sizes: 20-inch, 25-inch and 29-inch suitcases | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Monos For Your Special Someone Luggage Set

Designed with simplicity in mind, this two-piece set from luggage brand Monos has a sleek, modern look that our testers love. Both of the bags opened to reveal two spacious compartments that were able to fit our entire load of items in our packing tests. The carry-on bag features an adjustable compression panel, while the larger checked bag is equipped with compression straps and a larger fabric panel to keep everything in place. What's more, there are plenty of organizational mesh pockets inside the bags, along with additional shoe bags and a laundry bag to separate your dirty clothes.

During Lab evaluations, the durable carry-on and checked suitcase resisted major denting and damage in our drop tests. Both we and our consumer testers noticed prominent scuffing on the suitcases after use, but the brand provides a sponge for cleaning. One GH analyst said the sponge removed most of the marks on her bag. In our luggage obstacle course, testers appreciated the smooth gliding wheels and loved how effortless it was to maneuver the bags around twists and turns. They also noticed how well the telescopic handles locked into place at four different heights for easy toting.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 22-inch and 26.5-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Away Set of 2 Classic

Popular luggage brand Away carries sets of its best-selling carry-on and large checked bag for a better value — $50 off the full retail price. The hardside suitcases are loved by testers who highlighted the streamlined look and the spacious, well-organized interior. The bags open into two separate packing compartments with zippered mesh panels and pockets for additional space. There's also an adjustable compression panel inside each bag so you can really stuff it full if you're an over-packer like me. When we packed the bags in the Lab, we appreciated how smoothly the zippers opened and closed and how much we could fit inside.

The polycarbonate material is super lightweight — even lighter than some of our favorite softside luggage — and ultra-durable. It performed well in our drop tests, remaining in great condition after being released multiple times from a set 3-foot height. In our scratch tests, the bags showed minimal scuffs and markings. One caveat: Our consumer testers gave the telescopic handle lower ratings for feeling a bit wobbly when fully extended. The bags received high scores for their maneuverability and smooth wheels. If you want to add a personal touch to your luggage set, Away offers monograms of up to three letters for an added fee.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21.7-inch and 29-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Béis Luggage Set of Two

If you're on Instagram or TikTok, chances are that you've come across viral luggage brand Béis . Actress Shay Mitchell's trendsetting travel brand offers carry-ons, checked bags, weekender bags and more — all thoughtfully designed. The suitcases feature details like cushy padded telescopic handles, a retractable strap to hold a small bag or your travel blanket and a built-in weight indicator to let you know if your bag exceeds 50 pounds. I'm especially a fan of the chic monochromatic color options — even the metal of the telescopic handle matches.

When we tested the brand's suitcases in the Textiles Lab, my fellow GH analysts and I were impressed by how well the luggage withstood dents and damage after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. We did note that the material was more prone to scratches and scuffs than other luggage we tested. The suitcases open butterfly style, exposing a spacious zippered compartment and a compartment with a secure compression strap. A few smaller pockets help keep your things organized. You can choose which pieces to include in your luggage set , so the price and number of pieces vary depending on your selections.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: and 28.3 inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No

Eagle Creek Migrate 110L Wheeled Duffel Bag

Whether you prefer traveling with a duffel, want something that will hold up to your outdoor adventures or are looking for a more sustainable luggage option, Eagle Creek has you covered. The brand's Migrate duffels are sold individually, but I like how you can build your own set with five sizes ranging from 40L to 130L. Each bag is convertible: You can carry it with the attached handles or wear it on your shoulders like a backpack. The larger checked sizes can also be tilted back to roll on the ground with the built-in wheels, while the smaller duffels (like the brand's 40L duffel ) make a convenient carry-on.

All of the bags are made of 100% recycled polyester with a TPU coating that's water-resistant and easy to wipe clean. Plus, it's super durable, and one GH analyst who regularly travels with Eagle Creek duffels says the material holds up well to rough use. The duffels have a wide opening to make packing a breeze, and the large zipper tabs are convenient and easy to pull. Once your bag is packed, you can buckle the outer compression straps to secure your belongings.

Pieces: 1 | Size: Five sizes from 40L to 130L (sold individually) | Material: Recycled polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

How we test the best luggage

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , we test all kinds of luggage to determine which pieces are worth buying. We evaluate luggage in the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab and share it with consumer testers who bring the luggage on their own trips and then provide us with valuable feedback. Here's what we look for when we test suitcases:

• Size and weight: To ensure that the brands' listed dimensions for the suitcases are accurate, we measure each bag in the Lab. We weigh the bags and place carry-ons in a 22" x 14" x 9" area to make sure the suitcases meet most airline restrictions.

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack Review

It has all the design élan of a Soviet housing block. But it’s very affordable and certainly sizable—it just might not fit under the seat.

The Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack is one of 10 travel backpacks I evaluated for qualities including organization, comfort, and sturdiness as part of CR’s “Outside the Labs” review program. Price: $53.83 Where to buy: Amazon Dimensions:  21.5 x 15.75 x 8.25 inches Weight: 3.6 pounds Construction: Polyester Claimed capacity: N/A Tuckable pack sleeves: Yes External bottle sleeve: No Shoulder carry: Yes Waist strap: Yes Eyeglass sleeve: No Extras: Compression straps

Here’s My Review When packing my gear into the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack, I tried to imagine Jeff Bezos filling it for a trip . . . into suborbital space. Would he coo about the extra-large laptop cavity that was big enough not just for my iPad Pro and my MacBook Air but also my magazine, book, and adventure guide? Heck, I even managed to stow my dopp kit and windbreaker into this portion of the bag—since it’s subdivided into an overlarge electronics sleeve and then a capacious secondary bin that stretches the length of the pack. Overfilling this section chewed into the capacity of the center compartment (the largest of the group I evaluated), but that was okay because it meant that I’d have more ready access to the items I’d want to grab in-flight. I stuffed whatever I wouldn’t need en route (umbrella, extra clothing, camera) in the pack’s harder-to-access core.

See our review of the best travel backpacks for more information, including details on how we evaluated them.

But note to Jeff: All that space travel has you neglecting earthbound travelers. The Carry-On’s construction has a flimsy, slippery quality, and some interior stitching looks especially weak when compared with all the other bags I evaluated. Likewise, the external grab handles are large but they’re also slick and harder to grip. The Carry-On feels like what it is: a price-targeted item that left the needs of real-world travelers out of key design decisions save one: The waist belt makes this an easy bag to carry in spite of its size.

But it’s also a super-tight squeeze for underseat cramming. It just makes it—with total toe overlap in my mock airline setup. I fear that some stricter flight attendants might relegate this one to the overhead bin—or to the cargo hold, if there’s no room up there. 

Bonus! Zip-away backpack straps should protect them from damage if you ever need to check this bag.

Other Travel Backpacks Evaluated

• Away The Backpack • eBags Pro Slim • Incase EO Travel Backpack • Pacsafe Vibe 28L Anti-Theft Backpack • Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC Travel Backpack •  Thule Crossover Backpack 32L •  Topo Designs Global Briefcase •  Tumi Essential Backpack Alpha Bravo •  Yeti Crossroads 27L

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Michael Frank

Michael Frank is a freelance writer who contributes to Consumer Reports on the intersection of cars and tech. His bias: lightweight cars with great steering over lumbering, loud muscle cars any day. You can  follow him on Twitter  (@mfwords) and  Instagram  (mfwords).

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