Traveling should be a joyful adventure, not a stressful ordeal. But let’s face it—lugging around the wrong suitcase can turn your dream trip into a logistical nightmare.
That’s why finding the perfect carry-on is essential. Whether you’re hopping on a plane for a quick weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, the right carry-on can make all the difference. Let’s dive into how you can find one that fits your style, needs, and budget.
What Makes a Great Carry-On?
Choosing the right carry-on is all about balance. You want something spacious but compact, lightweight but sturdy, stylish but practical. Think of your suitcase as your travel companion—it should work with you, not against you.
Size That Fits Everywhere
Airline overhead bins are notoriously tight. To avoid the dreaded gate-check, look for carry-ons that meet the standard 22 x 14 x 9-inch size. This ensures you can breeze through the boarding process without worry.
Durable Yet Lightweight
Your backpack isn’t just a bag—it’s your travel buddy, and it needs to handle whatever your journey throws at it. Rainy days, bumpy bus rides, or overhead bin shuffles—look for tough, water-resistant materials like nylon or polyester that won’t let you down. Reinforced stitching and sturdy zippers are lifesavers, especially if you’re always on the go.
Easy to Glide Around
Spinner wheels that rotate 360° make navigating airports a breeze, while retractable handles with multiple height settings keep things ergonomic. Smooth wheels mean no awkward dragging, even on carpeted terminals.
Smart Organization
Pockets, dividers, and expandable sections help you keep everything in its place—no more digging around at security for that charging cable. Interior compression straps also keep your items snug and prevent shifting during transit.
Security Peace of mind
TSA-approved locks ensure your suitcase meets security standards while keeping your belongings safe. Smooth zippers also reduce the frustration of jams or breakages mid-trip.
Here are my top carry on suitcases
Solgaard Carry-Carry on Closet
Why you’ll love it: The Solgaard Carry-On Closet is my personal favorite for smart travel. Its scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell ensures your suitcase stays looking sleek trip after trip, while the built-in shelving system revolutionizes packing and unpacking. Staying organized has never been this easy or stylish!
Best for: Frequent flyers who value functionality, durability, and a touch of elegance in their travel gear.
Price: $295
Want to know more? Check out my in-depth review where I share how this suitcase became my go-to travel companion! Read it here.
Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX Hardside Luggage
Why you'll love it: Its lightweight polycarbonate shell resists scratches, ensuring your bag looks great trip after trip.
Best for: Frequent flyers who need a durable, stylish bag.
Price: $120
Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner
Why you'll love it: The built-in USB port and external battery pocket make charging on the go a breeze. Plus, the soft-shell fabric resists stains and abrasions.
Best for: Business travelers who value functionality and style.
Price: $299.99
DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Luggage
Why you'll love it: This hard-shell suitcase offers a sleek design and expandable capacity for extra packing space.
Best for: Those who always come back with souvenirs.
Price: $179.99
Level8 Grace Carry-On
Why you'll love it: A minimalist design paired with durable construction and silent spinner wheels make it a standout choice.
Best for: Minimalists who prioritize function and form.
Price: $159.99
Victorinox Spectra 2.0 Expandable Global Carry-On
Why you'll love it: This ultra-durable hard-shell suitcase has a Swiss-engineered handle system for ultimate comfort.
Best for: Jet-setters who need reliability and sleek aesthetics.
Price: $399.00
Travel Smarter: Pro Packing Tips
To get the most out of your carry-on, try these simple packing hacks:
- Roll, Don’t Fold: Rolling your clothes saves space and minimizes wrinkles.
- Packing Cubes: These keep your items organized and make it easy to grab what you need.
- Layer Liquids Smartly: Place your liquids bag in an outer pocket or at the top for easy security access.
