A detailed analysis of the best carry on suitcases in the market.
Traveling light is a beautiful thing. You can breeze through airport security, easily navigate crowded streets, and avoid the hassle of baggage claim. But finding the right carry-on suitcase can feel like a daunting task. With so many different sizes, materials, and features available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
That’s where we come in. We’ve done the research and rounded up 16 of the best carry-on suitcases on the market, each with its own unique strengths. Whether you’re looking for a durable hard-shell suitcase, a lightweight spinner, or a stylish duffel bag, we’ve got you covered.
We’ve considered factors like durability, maneuverability, packing capacity, and of course, style, to bring you a diverse selection of suitcases that will meet your travel needs and budget. From the best carry-on suitcases for frequent flyers to those perfect for weekend getaways, our list has something for everyone.
So, ditch the oversized luggage and embrace the freedom of travel with a carry-on. Read on to discover the perfect suitcase for your next adventure.
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Item | Image | Where to buy | Rating | Read More | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Away Bigger Carry-On | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Monos Carry-On Pro | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Travelpro Crew 11 Rolling Suitcase | ![]() |
4.8 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On | ![]() |
4.5 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Expandable Carry-On | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Tumi Alpha Bravo London Roll Top Carry-On | ![]() |
N/A | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Eagle Creek Expanse International Carry-On | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Rimowa Original Cabin Multiwheel | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry-On Expandable Rolling Suitcase | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Eddie Bauer Skyward Carry-On | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Away Bigger Carry-On
A popular choice for its sleek design and durable hard-shell exterior.
Specifications :
- Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9"
- Weight: 7.5 lbs
- Capacity: 40 liters
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Features: TSA-approved lock, 360-degree spinner wheels, interior compression straps,
Reasons to buy :
- Durable and scratch-resistant hard-shell
- Smooth and quiet spinner wheels
- Expandable for extra packing space
- Stylish and modern design
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit pricey
- Not as lightweight as some other carry-on suitcases
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a durable and stylish carry-on suitcase with plenty of packing space.
Don't buy it if:
You're on a tight budget or need a super lightweight suitcase.
Check this blog on 20 Best Carry On Luggage for Kids
Bottom Line:
The Away Bigger Carry-On is a great all-around carry-on suitcase that offers a good balance of durability, style, and functionality. It's a bit pricey, but you're getting a high-quality suitcase that will last you for years. If you're willing to spend a little extra, you'll be happy with this choice. It has a hard-shell exterior that will protect your belongings, smooth-rolling spinner wheels for easy maneuverability, and plenty of packing space, even with the expandable feature. It's a great choice for travelers of all levels, whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-timer.
Monos Carry-On Pro
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A premium carry-on suitcase with a focus on durability and organization.
Specifications :
- Dimensions: 21.5" x 14.25" x 9"
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Features: TSA-approved lock, 360-degree spinner wheels,
Reasons to buy :
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant hard-shell
- Smooth and quiet spinner wheels
- Thoughtful design features, such as a built-in laundry bag and shoe compartment
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit pricey
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a durable and well-organized carry-on suitcase with a focus on functionality.
Explore further with 18 Best Carry On Luggage Guide
Don't buy it if:
You're on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
The Monos Carry-On Pro is a great choice for travelers who want a durable and well-organized carry-on suitcase. It's a bit pricey, but you're getting a high-quality suitcase that will last you for years. If you're willing to spend a little extra, you'll be happy with this choice. The Monos Carry-On Pro features a durable hard-shell exterior, smooth-rolling spinner wheels, and a thoughtful design with features like a built-in laundry bag and shoe compartment. It's a great choice for travelers who want a suitcase that can handle the rigors of travel and keep their belongings organized.
Travelpro Crew 11 Rolling Suitcase
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A popular choice among flight attendants for its durability and maneuverability.
Specifications :
- Dimensions: 21" x 14" x 9"
- Weight: 7.5 lbs
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Features: TSA-approved lock, 360-degree spinner wheels,
Reasons to buy :
- Durable and scratch-resistant hard-shell
- Smooth and quiet spinner wheels
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as stylish as some other carry-on suitcases
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a durable and reliable carry-on suitcase that's easy to maneuver.
Don't buy it if:
You're looking for a stylish suitcase.
Bottom Line:
The Travelpro Crew 11 Rolling Suitcase is a great choice for travelers who want a durable and reliable carry-on suitcase. It's a popular choice among flight attendants, and for good reason. It's durable, maneuverable, and easy to pack. If you're looking for a suitcase that will hold up to the rigors of travel, this is a great option. It has a hard-shell exterior that will protect your belongings, smooth-rolling spinner wheels for easy maneuverability, and plenty of packing space. It's a great choice for travelers of all levels, whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-timer.
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On
A stylish and functional carry-on suitcase with a hard-shell exterior.
Specifications :
- Dimensions: 21.5" x 14" x 9"
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Features: TSA-approved lock, 360-degree spinner wheels,
Reasons to buy :
- Stylish and modern design
- Durable and scratch-resistant hard-shell
- Smooth and quiet spinner wheels
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit pricey
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a stylish and functional carry-on suitcase with a hard-shell exterior.
Don't buy it if:
You're on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
The Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On is a great choice for travelers who want a stylish and functional carry-on suitcase. It's a bit pricey, but you're getting a high-quality suitcase that will last you for years. If you're willing to spend a little extra, you'll be happy with this choice. The Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On features a stylish and modern design, a durable hard-shell exterior, smooth-rolling spinner wheels, and plenty of packing space. It's a great choice for travelers who want a suitcase that looks good and performs well.
Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Expandable Carry-On
A stylish and durable carry-on suitcase with a hard-shell exterior.
Specifications :
- Dimensions: 21.5" x 14" x 9"
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Features: TSA-approved lock, 360-degree spinner wheels,
Reasons to buy :
- Stylish and modern design
- Durable and scratch-resistant hard-shell
- Smooth and quiet spinner wheels
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit pricey
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a stylish and durable carry-on suitcase with a hard-shell exterior.
Don't buy it if:
You're on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
The Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Expandable Carry-On is a great choice for travelers who want a stylish and durable carry-on suitcase. It's a bit pricey, but you're getting a high-quality suitcase that will last you for years. If you're willing to spend a little extra, you'll be happy with this choice. The Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Expandable Carry-On features a stylish and modern design, a durable hard-shell exterior, smooth-rolling spinner wheels, and plenty of packing space. It's a great choice for travelers who want a suitcase that looks good and performs well.
Tumi Alpha Bravo London Roll Top Carry-On
A stylish and durable carry-on suitcase with a unique roll-top design.
Specifications :
- Dimensions: 21.5" x 14" x 9"
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Material: Ballistic nylon
- Features: TSA-approved lock, 360-degree spinner wheels,
Reasons to buy :
- Stylish and unique design
- Durable and water-resistant ballistic nylon exterior
- Smooth and quiet spinner wheels
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit pricey
- Not as expandable as some other carry-on suitcases
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a stylish and durable carry-on suitcase with a unique roll-top design.
Don't buy it if:
You need a lot of packing space or you're on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
The Tumi Alpha Bravo London Roll Top Carry-On is a great choice for travelers who want a stylish and durable carry-on suitcase with a unique design. It's a bit pricey, but you're getting a high-quality suitcase that will last you for years. If you're willing to spend a little extra, you'll be happy with this choice. The Tumi Alpha Bravo London Roll Top Carry-On features a stylish and unique roll-top design, a durable ballistic nylon exterior, smooth-rolling spinner wheels, and plenty of packing space. It's a great choice for travelers who want a suitcase that looks good, performs well, and can handle the rigors of travel.
Eagle Creek Expanse International Carry-On
A durable and versatile carry-on suitcase with a hard-shell exterior.
Specifications :
- Dimensions: 21.5" x 14" x 9"
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Features: TSA-approved lock, 360-degree spinner wheels,
Reasons to buy :
- Durable and scratch-resistant hard-shell
- Smooth and quiet spinner wheels
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit pricey
- Not as stylish as some other carry-on suitcases
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a durable and versatile carry-on suitcase with a hard-shell exterior.
Don't buy it if:
You're on a tight budget or you're looking for a stylish suitcase.
Bottom Line:
The Eagle Creek Expanse International Carry-On is a great choice for travelers who want a durable and versatile carry-on suitcase. It's a bit pricey, but you're getting a high-quality suitcase that will last you for years. If you're willing to spend a little extra, you'll be happy with this choice. The Eagle Creek Expanse International Carry-On features a durable hard-shell exterior, smooth-rolling spinner wheels, and plenty of packing space. It's a great choice for travelers who want a suitcase that can handle the rigors of travel and keep their belongings protected.
Rimowa Original Cabin Multiwheel
A classic and stylish carry-on suitcase with a hard-shell exterior.
Specifications :
- Dimensions: 21.5" x 14" x 9"
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Features: TSA-approved lock, 360-degree spinner wheels,
Reasons to buy :
- Stylish and classic design
- Durable and scratch-resistant hard-shell
- Smooth and quiet spinner wheels
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be very pricey
- Not as expandable as some other carry-on suitcases
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a stylish and durable carry-on suitcase with a classic design.
Don't buy it if:
You're on a tight budget or you need a lot of packing space.
Bottom Line:
The Rimowa Original Cabin Multiwheel is a great choice for travelers who want a stylish and durable carry-on suitcase with a classic design. It's very pricey, but you're getting a high-quality suitcase that will last you for years. If you're willing to spend a lot of money, you'll be happy with this choice. The Rimowa Original Cabin Multiwheel features a stylish and classic design, a durable hard-shell exterior, smooth-rolling spinner wheels, and plenty of packing space. It's a great choice for travelers who want a suitcase that looks good, performs well, and is built to last.
Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry-On Expandable Rolling Suitcase
A durable and expandable carry-on suitcase with a hard-shell exterior.
Specifications :
- Dimensions: 21.5" x 14" x 9"
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Features: TSA-approved lock, 360-degree spinner wheels,
Reasons to buy :
- Durable and scratch-resistant hard-shell
- Smooth and quiet spinner wheels
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit pricey
- Not as stylish as some other carry-on suitcases
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a durable and expandable carry-on suitcase with a hard-shell exterior.
Don't buy it if:
You're on a tight budget or you're looking for a stylish suitcase.
Bottom Line:
The Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry-On Expandable Rolling Suitcase is a great choice for travelers who want a durable and expandable carry-on suitcase. It's a bit pricey, but you're getting a high-quality suitcase that will last you for years. If you're willing to spend a little extra, you'll be happy with this choice. The Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry-On Expandable Rolling Suitcase features a durable hard-shell exterior, smooth-rolling spinner wheels, and plenty of packing space. It's a great choice for travelers who want a suitcase that can handle the rigors of travel and keep their belongings protected.
Eddie Bauer Skyward Carry-On
A lightweight and affordable carry-on suitcase with a hard-shell exterior.
Specifications :
- Dimensions: 21.5" x 14" x 9"
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Features: TSA-approved lock, 360-degree spinner wheels,
Reasons to buy :
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Affordable price
- Durable and scratch-resistant hard-shell
- Smooth and quiet spinner wheels
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as expandable as some other carry-on suitcases
What you need to know :
Buy it if
You're looking for a lightweight and affordable carry-on suitcase with a hard-shell exterior.
Don't buy it if:
You need a lot of packing space.
Bottom Line:
The Eddie Bauer Skyward Carry-On is a great choice for travelers who want a lightweight and affordable carry-on suitcase with a hard-shell exterior. It's a great value for the price, and it's a great option for travelers who want a suitcase that's easy to maneuver. The Eddie Bauer Skyward Carry-On features a lightweight design, a durable hard-shell exterior, smooth-rolling spinner wheels, and plenty of packing space. It's a great choice for travelers who want a suitcase that's easy to travel with and won't break the bank.
Find more on 16 Best Carry On Garment Bag Options
AmazonBasics Hardside Expandable Carry-On
A solid, reliable carry-on suitcase with a great price point.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Dimensions: 21.5" x 14" x 9"
- Weight: 7.3 lbs
- Capacity: 37 liters
- Features: Expandable, TSA-approved lock, 360° spinner wheels, built-in combination lock
Reasons to buy:
- Affordable
- Durable
- Expandable for extra packing space
- Smooth-rolling spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
Reasons to avoid:
- Not as stylish as some other options
- Can be a bit bulky
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a no-frills, affordable carry-on suitcase that gets the job done.
- You need a suitcase with plenty of packing space.
- You want a suitcase that's easy to maneuver.
Don't buy it if:
- You're looking for a stylish or lightweight suitcase.
- You need a suitcase with a lot of compartments or features.
Bottom Line: The AmazonBasics Hardside Expandable Carry-On is a great value for the price. It's durable, spacious, and easy to maneuver. However, if you're looking for a more stylish or lightweight suitcase, there are other options available.
Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Carry-On
A stylish and functional carry-on suitcase with a great price point.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Dimensions: 21.5" x 14.5" x 9.5"
- Weight: 7.5 lbs
- Capacity: 40 liters
- Features: Expandable, TSA-approved lock, 360° spinner wheels
Reasons to buy:
- Affordable
- Durable
- Stylish
- Expandable for extra packing space
- Smooth-rolling spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
Reasons to avoid:
- Not as lightweight as some other options
- Can be a bit noisy on some surfaces
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a stylish and affordable carry-on suitcase.
- You need a suitcase with plenty of packing space.
- You want a suitcase that's easy to maneuver.
Don't buy it if:
- You're looking for a lightweight suitcase.
- You need a suitcase with a lot of compartments or features.
Bottom Line: The Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Carry-On is a great option for travelers who want a stylish and functional suitcase without breaking the bank. It's durable, spacious, and easy to maneuver. However, if you're looking for a truly lightweight suitcase, there are other options available.
IT Luggage World's Lightest Hardside Expandable Carry-On
A lightweight and durable carry-on suitcase that's perfect for frequent travelers.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Dimensions: 21.5" x 14.5" x 9.5"
- Weight: 6.5 lbs
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Features: Expandable, TSA-approved lock, 360° spinner wheels, built-in combination lock
Reasons to buy:
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Expandable for extra packing space
- Smooth-rolling spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be a bit pricier than some other options
- Not as stylish as some other options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a lightweight and durable carry-on suitcase.
- You need a suitcase with plenty of packing space.
- You want a suitcase that's easy to maneuver.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You need a suitcase with a lot of compartments or features.
Bottom Line: The IT Luggage World's Lightest Hardside Expandable Carry-On is a great choice for travelers who prioritize weight and durability. It's lightweight, spacious, and easy to maneuver. However, if you're on a tight budget or need a suitcase with a lot of compartments or features, there are other options available.
Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 20-Inch Hardside Expandable Carry-On
A stylish and functional carry-on suitcase with a variety of features.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Dimensions: 20" x 14" x 9"
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
- Capacity: 35 liters
- Features: Expandable, TSA-approved lock, 360° spinner wheels, built-in combination lock, interior packing cubes and zippered mesh pocket
Reasons to buy:
- Stylish
- Durable
- Expandable for extra packing space
- Smooth-rolling spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
- Variety of interior features
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be a bit pricier than some other options
- Not as lightweight as some other options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a stylish and functional carry-on suitcase with a variety of features.
- You need a suitcase with plenty of packing space.
- You want a suitcase that's easy to maneuver.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You need a suitcase that's extremely lightweight.
Bottom Line: The Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 20-Inch Hardside Expandable Carry-On is a great option for travelers who want a stylish and functional suitcase with a variety of features. It's durable, spacious, and easy to maneuver. However, if you're on a tight budget or need a suitcase that's extremely lightweight, there are other options available.
American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Expandable Carry-On
A stylish and durable carry-on suitcase with a variety of features.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Dimensions: 21.5" x 14.5" x 9.5"
- Weight: 7.3 lbs
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Features: Expandable, TSA-approved lock, 360° spinner wheels, built-in combination lock, interior packing cubes and zippered mesh pocket
Reasons to buy:
- Stylish
- Durable
- Expandable for extra packing space
- Smooth-rolling spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
- Variety of interior features
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be a bit pricier than some other options
- Not as lightweight as some other options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a stylish and durable carry-on suitcase with a variety of features.
- You need a suitcase with plenty of packing space.
- You want a suitcase that's easy to maneuver.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You need a suitcase that's extremely lightweight.
Bottom Line: The American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Expandable Carry-On is a great option for travelers who want a stylish and functional suitcase with a variety of features. It's durable, spacious, and easy to maneuver. However, if you're on a tight budget or need a suitcase that's extremely lightweight, there are other options available.
SwissGear 1900 Hardside Expandable Carry-On
A durable and functional carry-on suitcase with a variety of features.
Specifications:
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Dimensions: 21.5" x 14.5" x 9.5"
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
- Capacity: 38 liters
- Features: Expandable, TSA-approved lock, 360° spinner wheels, built-in combination lock, interior packing cubes and zippered mesh pocket
Reasons to buy:
- Durable
- Expandable for extra packing space
- Smooth-rolling spinner wheels
- TSA-approved lock
- Variety of interior features
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be a bit pricier than some other options
- Not as stylish as some other options
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a durable and functional carry-on suitcase with a variety of features.
- You need a suitcase with plenty of packing space.
- You want a suitcase that's easy to maneuver.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You need a suitcase that's extremely stylish.
Bottom Line: The SwissGear 1900 Hardside Expandable Carry-On is a great option for travelers who prioritize durability and functionality. It's spacious, easy to maneuver, and features a variety of packing compartments. However, if you're on a tight budget or need a suitcase that's extremely stylish, there are other options available.
Choosing the right carry-on suitcase can make all the difference in your travel experience. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect one for your needs. This list of the 16 best carry-on suitcases is a great starting point, and we've broken down the features that matter most, like size, durability, and ease of maneuverability.
Ultimately, the best carry-on suitcase for you will depend on your individual travel style and preferences. Consider how often you travel, what you typically pack, and how important features like weight, maneuverability, and durability are to you. Don't be afraid to try out a few different models before making your final decision.
With the right carry-on suitcase, you can confidently navigate airports and arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to explore. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, having a reliable and comfortable suitcase can make all the difference. So, browse our list of top picks and find the perfect carry-on companion for your next adventure!
Happy travels!