13 Highest Rated Carry-on Luggage of 2024

Contents

• Choosing the right carry-on luggage for you
• Choosing carry-on luggage for domestic flights
• What to consider for international carry-on luggage
• 13 top-rated carry-on luggage options for 2024
• Away The Carry-on Flex
• Samsonite Just Right Carry-on Spinner
• BEIS Carry-On Roller
• BEIS The Small Carry-On Roller
• July Carry On Trunk
• Tumi 19 Degree Aluminum International Carry-on
• RIMOWA Essential Cabin
• AmazonBasics Hardsided Spinner
• Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel Bag
• Quince Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase
• Monos Carry-On Case
•  L.L.Bean Medium Carryall Pullman
• Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled International Carry-On Duffel
• Take your next vacation with ZenHotels

Choosing the right carry-on luggage for you

Everyone’s carry-on needs are a little different. If you fly with carry-on luggage only, you’ll want to search for an expandable suitcase or one with a compression design. If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ll want to prioritize choosing a suitcase with an extended or lifetime warranty. Size also matters, as traveling with a carry-on suitcase above the allowed size for your ticket type may result in you receiving a charge at the gate and having to check your suitcase.

Although rolling suitcases are the most popular choice for carry-on luggage, there are other styles you can choose from. Backpacks and duffle bags are also popular, and ideal for weekend trips and short-haul flights. You’ll want to consider the type of traveling you do, including to and from the airport. A four-wheel suitcase, known as a spinner, is ideal for frequent flyers who need to easily navigate different types of transport. A duffle might not be a practical option if you have several hours of commuting to and from the airport. Alternatively, a backpack carry-on can tick all the boxes if you’re a lightweight packer who wants to keep it simple. 

Price will often be the biggest deciding factor for your purchase. Consider the cost per usage of your luggage and how much a carry-on case might save you in the future, compared to checking a suitcase. Cabin suitcases can be even more expensive than their checked counterparts due to their additional elements.

Choosing carry-on luggage for domestic flights

It’s worth noting that every airline has its own size dimensions for carry-on luggage. Budget companies will have the smallest size allowance, while most U.S. providers will offer more generous sizing allowances than their international counterpart. 

Any luggage company will note which airlines that their rolling carry-on cases are suitable for. You’ll also want to consider whether you’re buying an item that qualifies as a personal item or overhead luggage. Personal items are typically included in basic tickets and are placed under the seat in front of you. Alternatively, overhead luggage may be an additional charge, depending on your ticket type, and is placed in the locker above your seat.

These bags aren’t just for flying. You can make a more cost-effective investment by considering the other types of travel you do, from road trips to trains to jumping on the subway. Can you do all this with a duffel, or is a wheeled suitcase essential? Don’t forget to consider the warranty offered, especially if you’re splurging on a carry-on.

What to consider for international carry-on luggage

If you’re traveling internationally or flying with different carriers, you’ll want to choose small cabin luggage. The allowed size dimensions will differ between airlines, and it’s best to have a spinner wheel case that meets as many requirements as possible. Brands like BEIS have carry-on cases that won’t meet the size requirements of most European routes, even without using the expandable features.

Features like compression pockets and lightweight materials can help maximize your allowance. For example, most European carriers have a 10kg weight allowance that you’ll also need to consider. If you’re packing only a carry-on bag for international travel, prioritize a durable silhouette with a larger capacity and extra zippers for easy organization. Flying internationally, especially regularly, means the warranty is even more important. You’ll want to prioritize durability, choosing a case that can withstand regular use. 

A shell case is a popular choice for international flights as it tends to be more lightweight and durable. Polycarbonate is a growing trend within the industry, with brands like RIMOWA offering this type of hard-shell luggage. Aluminum bags give you a luxury look and are available at multiple price points. If you’re taking a longer journey or flying solo, a four wheel case can be easier to carry.

13 top-rated carry-on luggage options for 2024

We’re rounding up 13 of the best cabin luggage with something for every budget and traveler. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a solo traveler, or jetting off on a once-in-a-lifetime trip, there’s a durable carry-on bag on this list for you. You want to choose a case that will be easy to wheel by your side or carry on your shoulder. 

Your cabin case is your travel companion, going through all the same stresses and mileage as you. Every frequent traveler needs a carry-on bag that works for their needs to make travel a little easier. Functionality, size restrictions, and price are the three key factors you want to consider when scrolling through our list of the best carry-on luggage.

Photo: freepik.com

The carry-on bags on this list have been tested by thousands of travelers and are amongst the best-sellers in the industry.

 

1. Away The Carry-on Flex

Price: $325

Where to buy: Away Travel

Best for: Frequent flyers due to its lifetime warranty

Away is one of the most recognizable names in the luggage industry. Famous for its sleek look and compression functionality, these four wheel cases are made with carry-on travelers in mind. If you’re a fan of influencers and travel content, you’ll have noticed plenty of Away suitcases on your social media feed. 

Currently available in 11 colors, this carry-on case is suitable for most international and domestic carriers, including Aegean, American, and JetBlue. You can use Away’s “airline compatibility” feature on its website to check if the bag meets your preferred carrier’s requirements. It’s worth noting that this suitcase may no longer meet some sizing requirements once expanded.

What makes this cabin case a best-seller is that it’s compact without sacrificing space. It’s designed for the savvy traveler who isn’t afraid to utilize packing cubes and the in-built compression system to use every square inch of space. The suitcase opens flat, allowing you to zip items into one side with mesh pockets for smaller belongings. The opposite side has a strong buckle, ideal for placing packing cubes and the bulk of your packing. 

If you travel exclusively with a cabin bag, the Carry-on Flex will give you extra space on your return trip home. The suitcase has a zipper expansion feature that adds an extra 2.25 inches, enough space to sneak a few extra souvenirs home. You’ll want to be careful with size restrictions if using the expansion feature, as it may make the bag slightly too large. The smooth wheels make this bag easy to roll through airports, train stations, and city streets. It also has the signature Away design element with an underside notch to make it easier to lift and carry your bag. This cabin bag has a polycarbonate shell, weighs only 8.15 pounds, and has a 39.8-liter capacity when not expanded. 

2. Samsonite Just Right Carry-on Spinner

Price: $250

Where to buy: Samsonite

Best for: Business travelers who travel with tech, including laptops. 

If you travel for work, you’ll want to choose a suitcase with a built-in laptop case and a longer warranty. This expandable spinner bag from Samsonite ticks the boxes with a front pocket that makes it easy to access your laptop throughout your travel. The pocket has an in-built 15-inch laptop sleeve, a USB charging port, additional storage pockets, and space for your documents and other tech essentials. Keep your belongings safe with separate locks for the main and front compartments. 

It’s worth noting that this bag is a little heavy when fully packed but remains easy to navigate with its spinner wheels. However, it is still ideal for overnight business trips or conferences where you’re only packing for a few days. The main selling point is the built-in packing cubes, compression straps, and front pocket to separate your tech essentials to streamline security checks and allow you to work on the go. This hard-sided case has a limited 10-year warranty and weighs 7.9 pounds with an expandable zipper and 4 dual-spinner wheels. 

3. BEIS Carry-On Roller

Price: $238

Where to buy: BEIS

Best for: Fashion-conscious travelers 

BEIS is the current “it girl” of the luggage world. It’s impossible to scroll through social media without seeing a celebrity or influencer promoting it. Launched by actress Shay Mitchell, BEIS is on the rise as one of the most popular luggage companies for carry-on cases. 

Although easy to dismiss as a fashion-focused brand, BEIS is famous for its intuitive set-up that helps elevate your flying experience. Its features have been tried and tested by influencers, everyday consumers, and industry leaders – gaining it almost 10,000 positive reviews on the BEIS website.

The carry-on roller comes in 10 matte colors and 3 glossy shades, with an extensive range of matching accessories to expand your collection. Just like the Away suitcase, BEIS carry-on bags have a split set-up, with each side offering equal storage. The only difference is the space the telescopic handle takes up in the right compartment, though this is easy to pack around. This bag has several features that justify its $200+ price tag, including its built-in weight indicator, stain-resistant material, TSA lock, and smooth-rolling spinner wheels. If you’re a frequent traveler, we recommend choosing one of the dark or neutral matte shades to reduce the appearance of marks.

4. BEIS The Small Carry-On Roller

Price: $218

Where to buy: BEIS

Best for: International and European frequent flyers

BEIS has faced criticism for the limited number of airlines its best-selling carry-on suitcase is suitable for. It recently responded by launching its small carry-on roller, designed with international and European airlines in mind. Slightly more affordable than its larger counterpart, this carry-on bag is currently available in six colors and maintains all the signature BEIS features.

This small carry-on has a cushioned silicone handle, smooth-rolling spinner wheels, and a hard-shell exterior. The polycarbonate shell can be spot cleaned, while the retractable bag strap can hold your personal item or duty-free shopping. 

What makes this cabin bag unique is its in-built weight indicator, showing if your suitcase weighs over 50 lbs. You can give your BEIS luggage an extra layer of protection from scuffs and marks by investing in the matching machine-washable cover, custom-made to fit this rolling suitcase.

5. July Carry On Trunk

Price: $455

Where to buy: July

Best for: Frequent travelers who want a luxury bag.

If you’re shopping for a sleek and stylish suitcase, you’re spoilt for choice. Suitcases have unexpectedly become the status symbol of the 2020s as flying returns to its pre-pandemic peak. While brands like Away and BEIS are popular, July offers another stylish but functional alternative that ‘s a little more under the radar. 

The trunk design gives an elevated feel, featuring the same clamshell design as the previous options on this list. It gives you the look of a trunk case with the functionality of a more contemporary design. However, the trunk silhouette means that this carry-on bag is not expandable. This bag has plenty of features to keep you organized, from an ejectable power bank to a customizable handle. 

July suitcases are some of the easiest to wheel, whether you’re walking across your hotel carpet or heading through the city with your bag. The four-wheel spinner design evenly distributes the weight, making it ideal for solo travelers. 

This carry-on case is best for those who are comfortable packing light. Although it has a polycarbonate shell and 42-liter capacity, the bag has a clasp closure that means you can’t overstuff it the way you can with expandable suitcases.

6. Tumi 19 Degree Aluminum International Carry-on

Price: $1,295

Where to buy: TUMI

Best for: Business-class flyers who want to make a statement.

One of the most expensive options on our list, this durable, aluminum case is ideal for business-class flyers who want to splurge on luggage that will last a lifetime. Make it your own by using the monogram service to add your custom initials. 

Tumi is a luggage brand that is guaranteed to turn heads. The metallic colors and durable aluminum shell scream, “business class ticket.” Although it’s a splurge, it’s a worthwhile purchase for business travelers and those who fly at least every 6 to 8 weeks. Although you’re paying for the brand name, you’re also paying for the undeniable quality that Tumi is famous for. The 31-liter capacity makes it a smaller carry-on size, and the aluminum design adds to the weight, making it over 11 pounds. However, the built-in features with compression straps and fully zipper closures help to tightly pack your belongings to maximize space. This suitcase comes with a 5-year warranty and features 4 dual spinner wheels.

We recommend this carry-on option if most of your trips are three days or less and if you also bring on board a personal item. This Tumi carry-on fits most international requirements and includes features designed for business ticket holders, including a hanger bracket and internal card pocket. The leather-wrapped handles give the bag a luxury feel, with two TSA-approved locks for extra security.

7. RIMOWA Essential Cabin

Price: $900

Where to buy: Rimowa

Best for: Minimalists searching for a polycarbonate suitcase.

RIMOWA suitcases are instantly recognizable for their sleek design and minimalistic look. If you’re a frequent flyer, the $900 price tag may be worth it for the lifetime warranty. Designed to hold 4 days worth of clothes, this cabin case has a telescopic handle, TSA-approved lock, and multi-wheel spinner system. 

This high-performance carry-on is considered the Birkin of the luggage world with its zipper-locking technology and hard-sided exterior. These suitcases are designed to last a lifetime, with an extended warranty. Its iconic contemporary look is one of the most replicated within the luggage industry and has gone on to inspire designs from brands like BEIS and July. 

Like the other bags on this list, the RIMOWA bag has a split design, allowing you to evenly distribute your belongings with a zipper mesh panel and built-in pockets. The stiff compression panel helps maximize space to reduce the need for a checked bag. Every RIMOWA case comes with a complimentary leather luggage tag and sticker. This suitcase features RIMOWA’S patented compression system to keep all your belongings in place, even during turbulence. Every part of this bag feels like a luxury experience, from its smooth telescopic handle to the option of a gloss finish. The brand has tested this bag to its limit, focusing on engineering to create a carry-on that can withstand just about anything. 

A RIMOWA is the only cabin bag you’ll ever need, helping you to justify the $900 price tag. This carry-on case is for those who want to invest in a durable suitcase they can use for dozens of trips every year, from international flights to trains and business trips. 

8. AmazonBasics Hardsided Spinner

Price: $70

Where to buy: Amazon

Best for: Budget-conscious flyers who need a large capacity.

If you’re on a budget, think outside the box for your cabin luggage. You can always expect to pay a premium for bags from specialist luggage companies, while brands like Amazon can offer a similar look at a lower price point. Choose between the 20-inch, 24-inch, and 28-inch designs with four basic color options. 

Amazon might not be your first thought for a high-quality carry-on, but this budget-friendly option has features comparable to many other designs on this list. Although it lacks a combination lock, it’s got a large capacity and scratch-resistant shell. It’s ideal if you need a carry-on for one trip or a bag to use in the interim while saving up for a more expensive design. This Amazon bag weighs just 6.3 pounds and has 4 dual spinner wheels for easy maneuvering with a smooth handle that turns freely. This carry-on is one you can easily take through cities and onto connecting flights without worrying about it becoming too heavy. The hard-sided exterior is more scratch-resistant than most other options under $100, performing just as well as competitors in the $200 to $300 price point. 

We recommend this carry-on for weekend breaks or short domestic trips. It’s an ideal addition to your luggage collection if you want a small carry-on that will fit most international airlines to accompany your larger, checked case.

9. Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel Bag

Price: $359

Where to buy: Patagonia

Best for: Fans of duffel bags who want the best of both worlds.

The 40L size of this Patagonia duffel bag ticks all the boxes with its recycled TPU-film laminate finish and 100% recycled body fabric. This durable, weather-resistant carry-on is ideal for adventure seekers and solo adventurers who never know where their next journey might take them.

The Black Hole collection is one of Patagonia’s best-sellers and a permanent part of its range. If you want a lightweight carry-on that you can use for more than just flying, this is the option for you. Although it only has two wheels, its lightweight shape makes it easy to maneuver, even when full. The lack of padding makes this strictly a carry-on bag, but its large compartment is ideal for those who prefer to pack into one space instead of using the split set-up most spinner wheel bags offer.

This bag offers the packing functionality of a duffle bag with the convenience of a traditional two wheel case. If you struggle with heavy bags, you’ll notice an instant difference with this design.

However, at over $350, it sits at a comparable price point to many of the best-selling spinner cases on this list. The versatility of this bag is its main appeal, as it can also be used for commuting, as a sports bag, or for short trips on trains. If you’re a fan of Patagonia and want a lightweight case, look no further than the Black Hole range. It’s worth noting that it won’t protect your belongings from knocks as it lacks the padding required to maintain its shape. You’ll want to double-check if the bag meets your specific route requirements to avoid your items becoming damaged if it is oversized and is checked at the gate.

10. Quince Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase

Price: $130

Where to buy: Quince

Best for: Those on a budget who want a sleek look.

If you’re a fan of the BEIS and Away luggage options on this list, we have a more affordable alternative. Quince gives you the same contemporary look and hard-sided shape for around half the price without compromising on durability. This carry-on is available in 20-inch, 21-inch, 24-inch, and 27-inch sizes with seven color options. Quince positions itself as a competitor to many of the industry’s most sought-after brands, including Monos and July. If you want a polycarbonate shell, 360-wheels, and compression panels without spending hundreds of dollars, Quince is an ideal option. It also offers free returns for 365 days and is unique for its transparent pricing models. 

This ultra-light bag is ideal for those who pack a capsule wardrobe for extended holidays. Whether you’re heading on a bleisure trip or jetting off on vacation, the polycarbonate shell offers extra protection, while the interior compression panels make it easy to pack for multiple days. The removable laundry bag is ideal for organizing clothing on the go and keeping clean and dirty clothes separated throughout your journey.

What makes this carry-on case unique is that it has Japanese-crafted Hinomotor 360-degree wheels, one of the best quality options you’ll find at this price point. It also has a gliding telescopic handle and TSA-approved lock for added convenience. If you’re a fan of the Away bag on this list, the Quince Carry-On is the most comparable alternative at a lower price point. The durable exterior and internal features are almost identical, right down to the removable laundry bags. 

Quince has recently elevated its offering by providing a limited lifetime warranty, putting it on par with brands like Away. You’ll receive a new bag in the event of defects, such as broken zippers or handles.

11. Monos Carry-On Case

Price: $255

Where to buy: Monos

Best for: Frequent flyers looking to maximize space. 

Available in 8 colors with additional limited-edition patterns, the Monos carry-on case has an award-winning design. The basic carry-on size will fit in the overhead bins for most major U.S. and European carriers, as well as those in Asia. Monos offers a 100-day return window with a limited lifetime warranty for extra peace of mind. Its luggage is quality tested with 40 different tests to ensure it can withstand regular use. 

What makes Monos unique is that its carry-on case fits almost every domestic and international carrier. It’s great for frequent flyers who book with multiple airlines and don’t want the hassle of buying more than one carry-on. The $255 price point means it sits comfortably at a median price for a high-quality bag. 

This carry-on is one you don’t have to baby. It features a dent-resistant silhouette that Monos describes as being “virtually unbreakable.” It has all everything you would expect of a high-quality spinning case, from its vegan leather details to its quiet spinner wheels, TSA-approved lock, and telescopic handle with 4 height settings. The water-resistant polycarbonate hard shell is described as ‘aerospace-grade’ and is partly made from recycled materials. 

The bag has an anti-microbial lining made from 100% recycled polyester to keep your clothes odor-free while flying. If you’re a fan of Monos and decide to invest in the full product range, you can easily store the Carry-On case inside the larger checked bags from Monos for easy storage at home. You’ll get several extras with your purchase, including an ion-coated laundry bag, two shoe bags, and an exclusive vegan leather luggage tag. The lifetime warranty makes this carry-on 

12. L.L.Bean Medium Carryall Pullman

Price: $243

Where to buy: L.LBean

Best for: Those who prefer soft-sided luggage.

L.L.Bean might be famous for its tote bags, but its carry-on luggage is one of its most underrated products. It has stocked luggage for years but recently redesigned its most popular pieces to make them look a little more contemporary with added functionality.

The Pullman is made with abrasion-resistant and rugged material that can withstand just about anything. This soft-sided case will remind you of the styles you’ll often see flight attendants use, giving you the added functionality of a soft-sided carry-on with more durability. The outer pocket is one of its main selling points, whether you want to pack dirty clothes, snacks, or your laptop. The bag’s interior offers plenty of space and additional pockets for easy organization, from a zipper compartment in the lid to a wide mouth opening in the main compartment. L.L.Bean offers a monogram service for its Pullman bag for an elevated look. 

While this bag works great over concrete floors, the wheels struggle a little with carpet. It’s worth noting that the bag’s silhouette is a little different from most soft-sided cases, as the side handle is located on the left. If you’re a left-handed person who struggles with side handles, this bag might be the ultimate solution for you. L.L.Bean offers a 1-year return policy on this soft-sided bag that weighs under 8 pounds and has a 40.7-liter capacity. Currently, it is only available in black and blue. It’s also available in a large and extra-large size if you want a matching luggage set. Only the medium Pullman spinner qualifies as a carry-on for most routes.

13. Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled International Carry-On Duffel

Price: $299

Where to buy: Eagle Creek

Best for: Those who want an all-in-one backpack and rolling case.

Can’t decide between a backpack and a rolling case? Now you don’t have to! Eagle Creek has come out with the ultimate solution for globe trotters and frequent flyers who need a versatile carry-on that has the functionality of a camping bag with the durability of a case with spinning wheels. The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler XT is one of the most comfortable backpacks on the market, even though it lacks any breathable mesh or padding. You can expect it to be bulkier than traditional backpacks, but this added functionality is ideal for avoiding carrying your cabin case up narrow stairs or across cities.

It can take some trial and error to get used to packing into this style of cabin case. The telescopic handle has four height settings for added comfort but is missing the usual grip padding you’d find on most cabin bags at the $300 price point. Most of your belongings will fit in the large open pocket of the main compartment, which also features a mesh compartment on the lid, like the L.L.Bean bag. Additionally, there are smaller exterior pockets for grab-and-go items like your phone charger, wallet, and headphones. 

This carry-on is a great sustainable choice as it is made with recycled materials and has an ultra-tough construction with a structured back and bottom that you don’t see in comparable carry-ons, such as the Patagonia bag. Choose from four colors for the carry-on size with its internal adjustable compression, TPU-reinforced zipper pulls, and internal key clip. You can carry it in three different ways, including side carry, using the luggage handle, or wearing it as a backpack. It’s worth noting that the fact it only has two wheels means it won’t glide the same way a four-wheel spinner will on most surfaces.

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