The Best Editor-Tested Carry-On Luggage You Can Buy Right Now
Table of Contents
There’s nothing quite like a seamless airport experience, which is so satisfying because of how rare it is. As a frequent traveler myself, I’ve worked hard to reduce as much stress as possible when it comes to air travel, and eliminating the need for checked luggage wherever possible is a huge part of it. I’m constantly chasing the high of simply walking off the plane and skipping baggage claim altogether, getting out of the airport as quickly as possible. Best of all, opting out of checking a bag completely eliminates the possibility of lost luggage. It’s a win-win.
But as someone who is also a compulsive overpacker, the idea of fitting everything into a carry-on is daunting, particularly if your vacation will last a week or longer. That’s why finding a bag that works with you rather than against you is so important. At Apartment Therapy, we’re experts at all things home, but we’re also versed in taking home on the road when need be. Since bad travel bags can really put a damper on an otherwise good trip, we’ve done the research and compiled this list of the best carry-on luggage to take with you on your next adventure. These tried and true picks won’t just get you through your trip — they’ll make the whole experience that much more enjoyable.
Our Best Overall Pick: Nex Pioneer Carry-On
Hawaii Edition Pioneer Carry-On, Haleakala Mist
Nex
$104 (was $130)
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The Best Carry-on Luggage
Best Overall: Nex Pioneer Carry-On
Best Value: BAGSMART 20″ Softside Expandable Carry-On
Best Splurge: ROAM Carry-On Expandable
Best Soft Shell: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry-On
Best Hard Shell: Monos Carry-On
Best Front-Pocket: CALPAK Ambeur Front-Pocket Carry-On
Best Expandable: Away Carry-On Flex
Best Crossbody: Arden Cove Carmel Convertible Backpack and Crossbody
Best Tote: Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Shopper Tote
Best Duffel: Halfday Garment Duffel
Best Backpack: ROAM Continental Backpack
Best Weekender: Monos Metro Weekender
Best for Kids: STATE Bags Logan Suitcase
Best for Families: No Reception Club Hideaway Carry-On Duffel
Best for Traveling with Pets: Roverlund Ready-to-Roll Cabin Carry-On
What to Consider Before Buying a Carry-on
The first thing to consider is your travel habits or aspirations. How often do you travel? Are you typically in planes, trains, cars, or all three? Do you travel to the same places routinely or somewhere new almost every time? Do you prefer to keep everything with you at all times or are you willing to gate-check your carry-on? For business travelers, utility and organization is key. Leisure travelers may benefit from the trackability of smart luggage or the option to overpack. Below are all the common types of carry-on luggage, along with who they suit best. If you’re seasoned and already know what you like, more power to you, but getting to know your options could present you with a better solution to any packing woes or travel tribulations.
Type
Hardside: One of the most ubiquitous suitcase styles, hardside carry-ons are most of what you’ll see from direct-to-consumer travel brands. Their construction is usually inflexible, but their hard-shell exteriors offer more protection. They often come in a variety of colors, are designed to be attractive, and can even be customizable.
Softside: Soft suitcases are somewhat flexible and may allow you to pack more than you’d be able to in a hard-shell suitcase with the same dimensions. The exterior is less protective, so breakable belongings inside may benefit from additional padding. We suggest packing soft shell suitcases sandwich-style: put in half your clothes first; place waterproof-packaged toiletries, accessories, and hard items in the middle; add the rest of your clothes on top.
Duffel: Ideal for those traveling with mostly soft items, duffels are for travelers who don’t mind or even prefer carrying their luggage. They can be low maintenance with a totally open interior or include pockets and additional storage.
Backpack: If you prefer to stay hands-free while en route, backpacks are your best bet. They offer support via weight distribution and often include a multitude of pockets, so everything down to your pens can be organized.
Tote: Also referred to as carry-alls, totes have a wide-open interior with limited pocket storage. They are usually open at the top but can be found with zipper tops or small fastener closures. They work well for travelers who prefer having easy access to their belongings. We recommend totes for carrying grab-and-go items like books, sweaters, and water bottles or separate storage bags of small items like toiletries and medication.
Size
The TSA now defaults to the regulations enforced by the specific airline you’re traveling with. That said, there usually isn’t a weight limit for carry-ons as long as you can get yours into any provided storage space yourself. Most major airlines, such as JetBlue, Delta, United, Virgin, American, and Alaska, approve carry-ons that are max 22″ in height, 14″ in length, and 9″ in width for overhead storage.
If you’re flying on a small aircraft, regardless of the airline, the measurements can go down to around 16″ x 12″ x 6″. Other airlines like Southwest allow overhead carry-ons up to 24″ x 16″ x 10″. Under-seat storage should be reserved for bags 17″ x 13″ x 8″ or smaller, depending on your flight. Prevent the inconvenience that comes with not realizing your carry-on is too large until it’s too late and check with your airline to confirm size and weight specifics.
What We Look for in a Carry-on
We tested a wide range of carry-on luggage for our list, judging them on the following criteria:
Quality: How well is it constructed? How long does it last? Do the zippers run smoothly? What materials is it made from?
Appearance: How does it look? Is it attractive or purely functional? Is it available in multiple colors? Is it customizable?
Function: How much can it hold? Is it flexible or extendable? Does it have pockets or any removable storage? Does it roll smoothly? Are the straps comfortably weight-bearing?
The Best Carry-on Luggage
Best Overall: Nex Pioneer Carry-On
Hawaii Edition Pioneer Carry-On, Waikiki Blue
Nex
$104 (was $130)
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Britt, our commerce editor, has tested a lot of carry-ons, so when she says that no others come close to the Nex Pioneer, she knows what she’s talking about. Dubbed Britt’s “favorite lightweight carry-on,” the Pioneer is as gorgeous as it is efficient. The design is inspired by the landscapes of Hawaii, coming in four soft hues that are sure to stand out on the baggage carousel. The brand affirms that its recycled polycarbonate shell is “nearly unbreakable and dent-resistant,” so you don’t have to worry about wear and tear during your journey. Another thing you don’t have to stress over? Faulty wheels and handles. Nex’s SilkGlide-coated handle offers four height settings and the side handles are meant to last for a decade, while the grid wheel design levels up the durability.
“Not only is it sleek and stylish in appearance, but it maintains a lightweight feel even when you’ve got it packed,” Britt says. “I love that it’s made to have all of your belongings zipped neatly inside (it makes it so much easier to close!) and that the smaller pockets are hidden inside, too. As a result, the suitcase always looks neat. I couldn’t believe how easy it was to move around, even when I had it packed with clothing that wouldn’t fit in my larger suitcase and gifts I was bringing to my family. I definitely see myself using this carry-on for years to come!”
Specifications:
Polycarbonate shell; VelvetWave material lining
14” x 9” x 22”; 6.48 lbs
45.43-liter capacity
360° spinner wheels
TSA-approved lock
Available in 2 sizes and 4 colors
Lifetime warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those who are after a bag that delivers looks and durability; those who want a carry-on that can go far distances effortlessly.
Good to Know: Nex offers free shipping on all luggage purchases!
Best Value: BAGSMART 20″ Softside Expandable Carry-On
BAGSMART Carry-On
Amazon
$80.74 (was $104.99)
After trying out a number of the brand’s affordable travel essentials in addition to its carry-on, BAGSMART has quickly become a favorite of ours at AT. Those that aren’t jet-setting on the regular might not want to invest in a pricey piece of luggage; in that case, BAGSMART is your best bet. Its Softside Expandable Carry-On looks and performs like it goes for at least double the price, crafted with premium polyester and featuring a quilted chevron front panel and gold hardware. It comes with plenty of pockets — there’s even a handy water bottle-sized pocket on the side — for your essentials, which are protected by a TSA-approved lock.
Britt was impressed by this carry-on, especially when she paired it with the brand’s packing cubes. With those and the compression straps, “[she] still had plenty of room to spare” after filling it with outerwear that couldn’t fit in her checked bag.
“Even when the suitcase was packed and expanded, it was still light enough to pull and carry,” Britt adds in her review. “The carry-on easily fit into the overhead compartment on the plane, and when I had to check it on the way home due to changing flights after a delay, the suitcase made it to the baggage claim area unscathed.”
Read our full review of the BAGSMART 20″ Softside Expandable Carry-On.
Specifications:
Oxford fabric
21” x 13.5″ x 9” (11” expanded); 5.8 lbs
44-liter capacity
Expandable
360° spinner wheels
TSA-approved lock
Available in 11 colors
2-year warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those who prefer a sleek look on a budget; infrequent travelers who want a carry-on that’ll get the job done efficiently.
Good to Know: “I noticed that it was easier to roll forward and backwards versus side-to-side, but it never stalled or got stuck,” Britt says.
Best Splurge: ROAM Carry-On Expandable
Carry-On Expandable
ROAM
$450 (was $495)
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On the other hand, those who find themselves at the airport more often won’t mind splurging on ROAM’s Carry-On Expandable. What makes it different from others on the market is that it’s entirely customizable — down to the lining, the wheels, and monogram of your initials — so you’ll actually want to show it off during your travels. The glossy finish and geometric texture on the shell round out its luxe appearance. Of course, good looks isn’t all that the carry-on has to offer: The ultra-smooth wheels will make the trip too and from your gate completely painless, and the compression system and extra few inches the expanded version allows for will fit a week’s worth of clothes.
“This is by far the most stylish, glamorous suitcase I’ve ever owned,” says commerce assistant editor Morgan. “The customizable feature is beyond cool. Even if I’m in sweatpants and sneakers, I instantly feel fashionable with this carry-on next to me. It moves so seamlessly that it seems like even when it’s fully packed, I’m pulling along nothing at all. Expanded, it still fit into the overhead compartment.”
Specifications:
Polycarbonate shell
22” x 14.25” x 9” (11” expanded); 7.6 lbs
51-liter capacity
Expandable
360° spinner wheels
TSA-approved lock and free monogram
Compression pad included
Available in 5 colors (with a customizable option)
100-day trial and lifetime warranty
Who It’s Best For: Frequent flyers; those who enjoy traveling in style.
Good to Know: If you choose not to customize it, the five preset colorways are inspired by different cities, including London and Brooklyn.
*Honorable Mention: The Carl Friedrik Carry-On X is also worth its higher price tag, according to our tester, Troy. “I liked that this carry-on is spacious enough to hold a lot while still being compact. It doesn’t look bulky like other carry-ons I’ve seen,” Troy says. “The front pocket also surprisingly makes a big difference by providing more storage space for my books and other documents I want nearby while on the go.”
Best Soft Shell: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry-On
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry-On
Amazon
$144.49 (was $169.99)
This aptly named Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-On is the go-to suitcase for flight attendants, which is a stamp of approval we can get behind. “I bought this roll-on suitcase over 10 years ago, and I still use it on every trip,” says AT creative studios editorial director Matt. “I went into a luggage shop and told the salesman I wanted a suitcase that would always fit in every overhead. He immediately grabbed this bag and said it’s the one flight attendants use. Over 10 years later — and with confirmation from several flight attendants over the years — he’s still right.”
This soft-sided suitcase boasts storage galore, including two quick-access exterior front pockets, a full-length interior lid pocket, and a side accessory pocket with adjustable hold-down straps. Plus, the inside lining is made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles to help reduce environmental waste.
Read our full review of the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-On.
Specifications:
Polyester
23″ x 14.5″ x 9″; 5.4 lbs
46-liter capacity
Expandable
360° spinner wheels
Available in 3 sizes and 12 colors
Limited lifetime warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those who prefer soft-sided luggage; those who prefer lightweight luggage.
Good to Know: If you do choose to use the extender feature on this bag, keep in mind that it might not comply with all overhead luggage bin sizes.
Best Hard Shell: Monos Carry-On
Carry-On
Monos
$255
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If you want to ensure that your belongings are protected in the overhead bin, it might be worth staying on the safe side and snagging a hard shell carry-on. Plus, there’s always a chance you have to check it at the airport if your flight is full. You can’t go wrong with Monos’ Carry-On in that case, which boasts a minimalist, monochromatic look and vegan leather details that are sure to turn heads. AT’s senior product manager Rachelle vouches for Monos’ bag, which she’s brought everywhere with her for almost three years — and it only has minimal scuffs on the outside. The brand guarantees that the size will work almost anywhere in the world.
Further, Monos paid extra attention to the telescopic handle when designing its carry-on, which is equipped with high-grade aluminum tubes, an ergonomic shape, and a hidden release button. On the inside, one half of the suitcase has a zipped panel to hold your shoes, as well as a compression pad for the other half to maximize space.
Specifications:
Polycarbonate shell; polyester lining
22″ × 14″ × 9″; 7.01 lbs
28-liter capacity
360° spinner wheels
TSA-approved lock
Compression pad included
Available in 13 colors
100-day trial and limited lifetime warranty
Who It’s Best For: Stylish travelers who want a spacious bag that’s in it for the long haul.
Good to Know: It nests inside of Monos’ Check-In suitcase, which makes for great storage at home.
*Honorable Mention: Our tester Celeny is also a fan of Monos’ Carry-On Pro, which costs about $40 more. “The hard shell has proven to be sturdy over several flights and kept my glass bottles safe,” she says. “The compartments are spacious. The zippered sections allow higher compression of my clothes, which means I’m able to fit more than I would in an open trunk bag.”
Best Front-Pocket: CALPAK Ambeur Front-Pocket Carry-On
Ambeur Front Pocket Carry-On Luggage in Gold
Calpak
$265
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You can never have too many pockets when you’re traveling, and it seems that CALPAK knows that. Its Ambeur carry-on has a well-designed front pocket that can hold all of the items you need to access quickly and easily at airport security, like your laptop. The durable hard-shell exterior will keep it safe, as will the TSA-friendly lock that’ll keep everything else secure. Aside from its functionality, the Ambeur is also a total stunner with three metallic colors available: Rose Gold, Gold, and Copper. You’ll be able to spot it from a mile away! (However, it also comes in black if you’d rather go more under the radar.) It also has a cushioned top handle as well as a handle on the bottom, so grabbing it out of the overhead bin will be a breeze.
“With its gorgeous metallic finish, this is by far my most stylish carry-on,” says Britt. “I opted for it in the gold color, and the most I’ve ever packed inside of it without a struggle was for a week-long vacation. It rolls smoothly on 360-degree spinner wheels, and the front pocket in incredibly handy for flat documents, a laptop, and more that you want to keep nearby on your journey. Honestly, it’s a bag that’s too pretty to check!”
Specifications:
Polycarbonate shell
21″ x 14″ x 9″; 8 lbs
43-liter capacity
360° spinner wheels
TSA-approved lock
Divider featuring multiple pockets included
Available in 4 colors
2-year limited warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those who like their luggage to stand out; those who frequently travel with laptops and documents.
Good to Know: CALPAK has an entire Ambeur collection, which includes medium and large full-size suitcases.
Best Expandable: Away Carry-On Flex
The Carry-On Flex
Away
$325
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Away has taken the luggage world by storm, so it only makes sense that one of its carry-ons makes our list. Despite its ability to expand an extra 2.25 inches, the Flex will fit into all overhead bins, which is great for squeezing in any extra items that you purchase on your trip. (Which is pretty much guaranteed.) You can fit even more inside with the included compression system. In total, the brand confirms that it can hold up to eight outfits at a time, which is stellar for much a compact bag.
“Not only is the design sleek (I’m absolutely in love with the Coast Blue color), but it also easily fits a week’s worth of outfits,” commerce SEO writer Haley confirms. “Of course, this depends on what I’m packing — bulky sweaters and jackets take up more space — but with its flex option that expands an extra two inches, I usually have more than enough room. The carry-on is equipped with two zippered compartments and even includes a separate bag for dirty laundry, which I really appreciate since I prefer to keep my clean and dirty clothes separate.”
Read our full review of the Away Carry-On Flex.
Specifications:
100% polycarbonate shell
21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″ (11.25” expanded); 7.9 lbs.
39.8-liter capacity
Expandable
360° spinner wheels
TSA-approved lock
Compression system, laundry bag, and black leather luggage tag included
Available in 11 colors
Limited lifetime warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those who tend to overpack or shop while traveling; those who want ample room for a week’s worth of clothes.
Good to Know: For an extra $50, you can personalize the bag with your initials.
Best Crossbody: Arden Cove Carmel Convertible Backpack and Crossbody
Carmel Convertible Backpack and Crossbody
Arden Cove
$169 (was $210)
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It never hurts to have your hands-free when you’re trying to find your way around the airport, especially if you’re just going on a quick trip. Arden Cove’s bag just might be the most versatile option that’ll do just that, since you can convert it from a backpack to a crossbody bag. You can even wear it as a handbag or shoulder bag, too, depending on how you configure the detachable straps. It’s the perfect solution to deterring pickpockets and keeping your belongings safe while sightseeing.
“When I travel, I typically bring a carryall pouch for all of my essentials while on a plane,” Britt says. “However, the Arden Cove Carmel Backpack serves the same purpose and I don’t have to worry about carrying an extra bag with me! This mini backpack is just the right size for my passport, wallet, phone, snacks, and more. I also love that the straps lock shut and that the zippers have clips on them, too. Not only does it work as a carry-on small item, but you can even take it on the go as an everyday bag.”
Specifications:
Nylon
10.5” x 3-4.5” x 7-8”; 1.7 lbs
4.8-liter capacity
Detachable and adjustable shoulder straps, detachable top handle, and D-rings included
Available in 3 colors
Who It’s Best For: Those who prefer to have all of their essentials within easy reach; those who enjoy versatility in their bags.
Good to Know: The backpack can accommodate a 10-inch iPad Pro.
*Honorable Mention: Another bag worth considering is Nex Voyager Crossbody, which also earned high marks from Britt and is ideal for those who prefer the fanny pack-style crossbody bags. “It has three interior compartments (one large, one small, one zippered) that can hold all of your essentials while you place your larger carryon — if you have one — into the overhead bin,” she notes. “It also functions as a bag you can take around with you while you travel, so I loved the versatility in that, too.”
Best Tote: Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Shopper Tote
Italian Leather Triple Compartment Shopper Tote
Quince
$149
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In addition to your larger carry-on that goes in the overhead compartment, you also need a bag to contain all of your in-flight items. That’s where Quince’s Italian Leather Triple Compartment Shopper Tote comes in, which you’re bound to use every day, too. Shopping writer Nikol has owned this stunning bag for nearly a year, bringing it to work and on trips, and it still looks as new as the day she bought it. Plus, the straps manage to hold a lot of weight, which is key for those of us that tend to throw everything in our tote bags.
“My favorite features are the durable black leather, the built-in laptop sleeve, and the overall sleek appearance,” she says. “I love that the tote matches all of my outfits, too. Additionally, the laptop sleeve is zippered, but the two large compartments on either side of it are not. This allows for easy access to my items, which I enjoy.”
Specifications:
100% top-grain Italian leather
12″ x 17.5″ top and 14.5″ x 5.5″ bottom; 2.12 lbs
Available in 6 colors
Wipe with a soft dry cloth to clean, with leather cleansing cream or a small amount of water
Who It’s Best For: The brand recommends stuffing the bag with tissue paper and storing it in the dust bag to retain its shape.
Good to Know: “One of the only things I don’t love about the tote are the straps, which I feel could be a tad longer,” Nikol says, adding that what they lack in length they make up for in sturdiness.
Best Duffel: Halfday Garment Duffel
The Garment Duffel
Halfday Travel
$108
Buy Now
A duffel is an essential for those single-weekend trips where you want to keep things simple, when all you’re traveling with is a few outfits. With thousands of five-star reviews — including Britt’s — the Halfday duffel is specifically designed to keep your clothes in pristine condition, so you don’t have to bother with steaming or ironing them as soon as you arrive. It can hold three to three days’ worth of clothes, with the hanging compartment able to accommodate up to a size 50R jacket, as well as a suit or multiple shirts and dresses. It’ll also keep your garments protected thanks to the water-resistant material on the outside.
Britt usually relies on packing cubes to keep her clothes in good shape, but this duffel completely changed the game. “I unrolled The Garment Duffel on my hotel bed, unpacked my clothes, and immediately changed without a hitch,” she says. “Another feature I love is the interior shoe pockets. To be honest, I haven’t used them for shoes yet, but in case you’re wondering, they fit up to a size 13 pair.”
Read our full review of the Halfday Garment Duffel.
Specifications:
Polyester
22″ x 12″ x 12″; 2.3 lbs
45-liter capacity
Garment compartment and shoe pockets
Available in 2 sizes and 11 colors
Spot clean with gentle dish soap and water
Who It’s Best For: Those who want a bag that’ll keep their clothes wrinkle-free; those who aren’t traveling with breakables.
Good to Know: It folds flat for easy storage.
*Honorable Mention: I had [the Bukure Carry-On Garment Duffel] on my Amazon wishlist and was fortunate to have someone gift to me for Christmas!” says Britt. “It was totally worth the wait. As far as 2-in-1 garment duffels go, this is a great option for a cheaper alternative that doesn’t lose out on quality. It’s not complicated to use, has plenty of storage — including outer pockets and a shoe compartment — and doesn’t feel like it will easily fall apart. The fabric is even scratch-resistant!”
Best Backpack: ROAM Continental Backpack
Continental Backpack
ROAM
$325 (was $350)
Buy Now
A top-notch backpack offers comfort, style, and plenty of pockets — and unsurprisingly, ROAM has one that fits the bill. Alicia, AT’s commerce deputy editor, says that she’s tried at least seven different backpacks since moving to New York City, and the Continental still sits at the top of her list. The slim and lightweight build, water-repelling exterior — which has held up through rainstorms — and customizable features all contributed to her stance. She’s even taken it abroad for several two-week long vacations, and can’t imagine ever traveling without it.
“One of my main gripes when it comes to backpacks usually center around the straps either cutting into my shoulders, sliding off with each step, or breaking altogether,” Alicia explains in her review. “I’m happy to report, not an issue here. The straps on ROAM’s backpack have the perfect amount of padding and have never dug into my shoulders, despite the hours I’ve spent wearing it in the airport and commuting to my office.”
Read our full review of the ROAM Continental Backpack.
Specifications:
Recycled materials
17.75” x 14” x 8”; 2.4 lbs
26-liter capacity
Luggage sleeve and laptop pocket
Key leash included
Available in 4 colors (customizable option)
100-day trial and lifetime warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those who want to create a backpack with their own unique color selections; those who want a backpack that performs during long vacations as well as commutes to work.
Good to Know: A luggage sleeve is attached to the back, so it would pair perfectly with ROAM’s carry-on.
Best Weekender: Monos Metro Weekender
Metro Weekender
Monos
$255
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In need of a bag that’s specifically designed for those quick turnaround trips? Monos’ Metro Weekender should go straight to the top of your wishlist. “I got so many compliments on my Metro Weekender when I took it to Las Vegas this year!” Britt says. “I opted for a nylon bag because I loved the gorgeous jewel-toned green that’s one of the color options, and it did not disappoint!”
Of course, it delivers in the function department, too. “The bag is extremely spacious with plenty of pockets for storage, some even where you wouldn’t expect them to be!” Britt continues. “It comes with a removable shoulder strap, which was super handy, and a bag for extra shoes or laundry. The bottom shoe compartment is also extremely useful and kept me from overpacking on my last trip! I was able to fit my tech, an extra jacket, snacks, and more in this weekender and it wasn’t a hassle to carry around the airport. The trolley sleeve can even be unzipped as needed for when you need to use it. I definitely plan to travel with it again!”
Specifications:
Nylon or vegan leather
19.25” x 10.25″ × 14.75″; approx. 5 lbs
47.5-liter capacity
Removable shoulder strap, laptop compartment, and trolley sleeve
Drawstring bag included
Available in 7 colors
2-year limited warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those who are looking for a compact bag with plenty of storage.
Good to Know: The built-in trolley sleeve is compatible with the handle of any Monos suitcase — and it turns into an extra pocket when you don’t need it!
Best for Kids: STATE Bags Logan Suitcase
Logan Suitcase
STATE Bags
$220
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Traveling with kids can be tricky enough, but the STATE Bags Logan Suitcase makes it a little easier. This suitcase was designed with families in mind, with pockets and storage compartments for easy use. There are two main interior compartments: one with an elastic strap to keep things compressed and the other featuring a zip closure to keep things separate. The front pocket has a bunch of different organization compartments for pens, markers, notebooks, and other travel activities.
“I gifted one of these suitcases to my seven-year-old niece and my sister-in-law ended up buying a second one for other daughter, plus the matching backpacks! They were perfect when we took a family trip to Disney, and the kids were able to move them around themselves,” says Britt. It can even work in your favor when you aren’t traveling with little ones. “The carry-on is perfect for long weekends, and you can fit a ton of items into it, from clothing to souvenirs.” Plus, it comes in a variety of cool designs and colors to really let your personality show.
Specifications:
Polyester
37.4” x 13.4” x 9.45”; 6.44 lbs
29-liter capacity
360° spinner wheels
Features a side strap for water bottles and a front compartment with multiple slip pockets for organizing markers, notebooks, and more
Available in 2 sizes and 18 unique designs
Who It’s Best For: Those with children; those looking for carry-ons with unique organization options; those who prefer a standout design for their luggage.
Good to Know: Even if you don’t have kids, you can utilize the unique front pocket for storing books, pens, or souvenirs from your travels.
Best for Families: No Reception Club Hideaway Carry-On Duffel
The Hideaway Carry-On Duffel
No Reception Club
$295
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Whether you’re traveling with kids or on your own, No Reception Club’s carry-on duffel is sure to wow you. At first glance, it looks like a standard duffle, but it’s on the inside what counts. You can ditch your packing cubes because the Hideaway comes with a removable organizer called the Cubby, which has five compartments that you can customize. With that, you can separate everyone’s belongings so they’re easy to find in a pinch. There are handles on every side of the bag, as well as a odor- and water-resistant space for dirty laundry. If you thought it couldn’t get more impressive, just wait: One section is insulated for snacks!
“What impressed me the most about the duffel is how family-friendly it is for those traveling with small children, but it’s just as good for those traveling solo,” Britt says. “The removable packing organizer is such a genius addition because it easily replaces packing cubes which can be challenging to store in duffel bags. Though this brand was new to me, I could tell immediately how good the quality of The Hideaway Duffel is, and couldn’t wait to use it!”
Specifications:
Polyester
22″ x 13” x 9″; 5 lbs
42-liter capacity
Insulated compartment and organizer
Laundry bag and detachable sternum strap included
Available in 2 colors
Wipe clean with damp cloth
Limited lifetime warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those traveling with kids; those that prefer to keep their belongings ultra-organized.
Good to Know: “One thing I’d recommend to anyone looking to buy it is to go all the way with the full bundle of this duffel,” Britt adds. “The Dopp kit and hanging straps only improve the convenience and ease of this duffel, but you’re getting a great piece even without them.”
Best for Traveling with Pets: Roverlund Ready-to-Roll Cabin Carry-On
Ready-to-Roll Cabin Carry-On
Roverlund
$389
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Sometimes, traveling with our pets just can’t be avoided, and it makes an already not-so-relaxing experience that much more stressful. In order to make the experience as seamless as possible for you and your furry friend, you should have the right gear on hand. The best part about Roverlund’s carry-on is that it works wonderfully whether or not you have your pet in tow. It has a unique horizontal shape that allows you to stack Roverlund’s airline-compliant pet carrier right on top. It has a front pocket with even more pockets inside of it, as well as a pouch for your laptop. Plus, the neon skate wheels don’t just look cool — though that certainly adds to the carry-on’s appeal. They also roll smoothly and quietly to make sure your pet’s trip through the airport goes off without a hitch,
“What I love most is that it has a lot of interior zippered pockets, more than any other suitcase I own, so you can store lots of small items without having to rifle around to find them,” Britt explains. “I also really like that the large compartments can be fully zipped close because it makes closing the suitcase so much easier.”
Specifications:
Polycarbonate shell and nylon lining
21” x 16.5” x 9″; 8.4 lbs
43-liter capacity
Skateboard wheels
TSA-approved lock and compatible with Roverlund pet carriers
Available in 2 colors
1-year warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those that travel with pets and want to ease the experience for them; those who are on the hunt for a unique, fashionable carry-on.
Good to Know: You can save 30% if you bundle the brand’s pet carrier with the carry-on.
Additional reporting by Kendall Cornish.
