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The 5 best carry-on luggage: Never check your baggage again
When my brother announced an Italian wedding, I knew it was time to get serious and find the right luggage. But first, I needed a carry-on to get me to his engagement party in Cape Cod. But not just any carry-on would do. I wanted a carry-on that would meet airline requirements and simplify my life during travel. I wanted the best carry-on today. This is what I found.
Features:
- Overall dimensions: 21.7" x 13.7" x 9"
- Weight: 8.1 lbs
- Capacity: 39.8 L
- TSA-approved: Yes
- Type of shell: Hard
The Away Carry On wins our pick for the best overall carry-on luggage with its lightweight build and affordability. Measuring about eight pounds, the Away Carry On is made of polycarbonate with a hard shell that delivers extra durability. The TSA-approved carry-on features 360-degree spinner wheels for easy movement, and at less than 22 inches, this carry-on meets requirements for most airlines, including JetBlue. There is a smaller capacity than others on our list, but an interior compression system and dual compartments ensure all of your luggage will fit and even includes a water-resistant laundry bag for your laundry. An extra-special feature is a built-in charger you will enjoy with those model. Included is an ejectable USB charger that will charge your phone up to four times before requiring a charge. You also get a TSA-approved lock to secure your belongings.
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Features:
- Overall dimensions: 21.65" x 10.04" x 14.96"
- Weight: 7.34 lbs
- Interior dimensions: 18.5" x 13.3" x 9.6"
- TSA-approved: No
- Type of shell: Hard
The AmazonBasics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner is meant to be a versatile, budget-friendly pick that can work for a variety of travel, both personal and professional. It incorporates an extra-thick ABS hard shell and a scratch-resistant finish. There are four double spinner wheels with a telescoping handle that is excellent for maneuvering and a mounted short handle for when it comes time to lift. Inside, you will find a fully-lined interior that helps make packing easier with a divider and three different zippered pockets. When you use the expandable feature, you get up to 15% more space for last-minute items.
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Features:
- Overall dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9"
- Weight: 10 lbs
- Capacity: 48 L
- TSA-approved: Yes
- Type of shell: Soft
The Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry On Spinner is not for those on a budget, as it costs about $700 to buy. However, it takes carry-on luggage to the next level with a series of features. For example, to expand your suitcase, you simply use the one-touch CX expansion to add more space. There are also multiple pockets on the exterior, like a SpeedThru™ pocket for security items and a PowerPocket™ for battery packs. It also includes a built-in tri-fold garment folder that will secure up to two suits while reducing wrinkling, plus garment panels and cinching straps to minimize creasing. An additional two mesh pockets are available for smaller items and accessories. Aluminum telescoping handles go the extra mile by incorporating impact resistance, plus there are shock-absorbing 360-degree wheels for easier navigation.
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Features:
- Overall dimensions: 23" × 15" × 9.5"
- Weight: 7.38 lbs
- Capacity: 48 L
- TSA-approved: Yes
- Type of shell: Hard
The Monos Carry-On Plus is one of the larger carry-ons on our list but still fits many airline requirements. Constructed from strong German polycarbonate, its materials are both aerospace-grade and water-resistant for further durability. The design also incorporates Hinomoto Lisof Silent Run 360° wheels with an adjustable telescopic handle that gives four different height settings. A TSA-approved lock is included. Inside is a built-in compression pad to help with capacity, which is already expansive compared to other models. Monos uses antimicrobial fabric for both interior and bag supply, which includes a laundry bag and two shoe bags. Plus, there is a 100-day free trial with a limited lifetime warranty to secure your purchase, giving you extra peace of mind.
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Features:
- Overall dimensions: 23.5" x 14.5" x 9"
- Weight: 7.72 lbs
- Capacity: 46 L
- TSA-approved: Yes
- Type of shell: Soft
The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21-inch Expandable Spinner boasts a PrecisionGlide™ system with eight different MagnaTrac® self-aligning spinner wheels and an adjustable PowerScope extension handle that features a patented Contour Grip. The interior includes a deluxe tie-down system with added accessory pockets. When expanded, you have an extra 2" more of an already impressive packing capacity. This includes the drop-in, fold-out suiter that helps prevent wrinkling for your hanging clothes - especially those work clothes that need to look sharp. For greater convenience, there is a quart-size wet pocket that is both removable and TSA-compliant for security. It is also equipped with not only a built-in USB but also a dedicated power bank pocket so you can easily charge your phone on the go. The Platinum Elite is secured by a lifetime limited warranty.
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What is the best carry-on luggage?
The Away Carry On is our pick for the best carry-on luggage due to its lightweight, durable design and overall value. It is one of the more affordable pieces of carry-on luggage while refusing to sacrifice quality with its polycarbonate build and built-in USB charger.
Here is a guide to compare the Away Carry On against other picks for the best carry-on luggage.
Best carry-on luggage | Cost | Overall dimensions | Weight |
Away Carry On | $295.00 | 21.7" x 13.7" x 9" | 8.1 lbs |
AmazonBasics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner | $86.54 | 21.65" x 10.04" x 14.96" | 7.34 lbs |
Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry On Spinner | $699.00 | 20" x 14" x 7.88" | 10 lbs |
Monos Carry-On Plus | $255.00 | 23" × 15" × 9.5" | 7.38 lbs |
Travelpro Platinum Elite 21-inch Expandable Spinner | $254.99 | 23.5" x 14.5" x 9" | 7.72 lbs |
Which is the right carry-on luggage for you?
There is no shortage of options to choose from when it comes to carry-on luggage, so we offer our expert suggestions based on our research to help you find the best carry-on luggage for travel.
Choose this best carry-on luggage... | If you... |
Away Carry On | Want customizable hard-shell luggage |
AmazonBasics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner | Are on a budget |
Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry On Spinner | Want the best business carry-on |
Monos Carry-On Plus | Want an oversized carry-on |
Travelpro Platinum Elite 21-inch Expandable Spinner | Prefer soft-side luggage |
How did we choose these carry-on luggage options?
There are several factors we kept in mind as we chose the best carry-on luggage.
- Size: Carry-on luggage is far from the same when it comes to size, and not all of them may meet airline requirements. We look for appropriately-sized carry-on luggage that will get to your seat that much faster.
- Type: There are two main types of luggage: soft and hard shells. It is a matter of preference, but soft-sided luggage is often far more durable.
- Wheels: There is a big difference between two wheels and four, with spinners a bit easier to navigate in busy airports and narrow aisles. However, carry-on luggage with two wheels tends to be more durable.
- Warranty: Many of the best carry-on luggage come with a warranty, whether it is ten years or for a lifetime. Be sure to check what requirements and limitations surround your warranty, so you understand what comes with your purchase.
Before you settle on the best carry-on luggage for your travel needs, be sure to carefully review the specs so you can be sure they will work for you.
What is carry-on luggage?
A carry-on bag is a smaller bag designed to accommodate onboard airline or train size restrictions. It typically has a handle and wheels for easy navigation, but the exact size and design can vary from one model to the next.
What is considered carry-on luggage?
A carry-on bag is generally around 20" to 22" and around 8 pounds. However, some of the best carry-on luggage strays from these sizes, offering more or less space. Be sure to check the airline requirements before you buy so you do not risk paying for checked luggage.
How much does carry-on luggage cost?
The cost of carry-on luggage can vary significantly as seen on our list of best carry-on luggage. These picks range in price from less than $100 to more than $700, depending on which you choose.
Is there alternative carry-on luggage worth considering?
In our search, we found many different types of carry-on luggage that could also work for your next trip.
Before you hit the road or fly the friendly skies, be sure to check out our picks for the best luggage brands, the best travel tech gadgets, and the best travel credit cards to simplify your trip.