Travel expert picks: Best carry-on luggage for 2025. Reviews of top brands & models based on durability, price, and airline size limits.
Look, I’ve been around the block. More than once. I’m talking well over 50 countries, a million miles on the road, and enough flights to make a brainmap of the best airport lounges. And through it all, one thing has remained constant: the importance of a great carry-on luggage.
Because anyone who travels frequently knows that a good carry-on luggages isn’t just some bag; it’s a travel companion, a mobile base of operations.
But let’s be honest, the world of carry-on luggage can be a minefield. You’ve got a sea of options, most of them looking like they rolled off the same assembly line. And the price tags? Don’t even get me started. Every year, the prices of these things seem to double for no good reason.
You can drop some serious coin on a carry-on suitcase, and still end up with a dud.
So, how do you separate the wheat from the chaff? How do you find a carry-on bag that can handle the rigors of the road, a bag that’s actually worth its weight in gold, without having to sell a kidney?
That’s where I come in. Consider me your luggage sherpa.
I’ve hauled, hefted, and hurled more carry-ons than I care to remember. After all, I’m a dad, and until recently, my boys made me haul all of their stuff too. So I’m pulling in all of my experience and expertise to help you find the right one. Whether you’re hopping continents or just skipping town on a road trip for the weekend, I’ve got you covered. We’re talking about bags that can take a beating and still look good doing it. And importantly, carry-on luggage that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
And hey, if you need a hand planning the rest of your adventure, we’ve got a whole arsenal of family travel resources waiting for you. Packing lists, travel tips, the works. You can find it all on our family travel resource page.
Top-Rated Carry-On Luggage 2025: Style, Practicality, & Durability Combined
Alright, so you’re short on time and just want the lowdown on the best carry-on luggage out there this year? I get it. You’re not here for a dissertation on luggage specs. You want the goods, and you want them now.
Below, you’ll find my shortlist of 2025 carry-on brands that can handle the punishment of the road, whether you’re jetting across oceans or hopping state lines. Consider this your cheat sheet.
But, if you’re the type who likes to know the why behind the what (and I respect that), you can scroll down further for a deeper dive into how I arrived at these top picks. We’ll get into the nitty-gritty of what makes these bags worth your hard-earned cash.
Here is my shortlist of the best suitcases for international or domestic travel.
| Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable | DELSEY Paris Helium Aero | TravelPro Platinum Elite Softside | Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside |
 |  |  |  |
| Weight: 6.5 lbs | Weight: 8.2 lbs | Weight: 7.8 lbs | Weight: 8.1 lbs |
| Hard Shell | Hard Shell | Soft Shell | Hard Shell |
| TSA Lock: Yes | TSA Lock: Yes | TSA Lock: Yes | TSA Lock: Yes |
| Durability: 5/5 | Durability: 5/5 | Durability: 4/5 | Durability: 5/5 |
| Wheels: Spinner | Wheels: Spinner | Wheels: Spinner | Wheels: Spinner |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
Tips For Choosing The Best Carry-On Luggage
My family’s travel style is about as varied as it gets. We’re talking about road trips, camping, coastal cruises, international flights, and train journeys – you name it, we’ve done it. So, when it comes to picking the best carry-on luggage, I’ve got a few non-negotiables: practicality, durability, and value.
While a little style is great, a good carry-on needs to be a workhorse, not a show pony.
Now, choosing the right luggage can feel like navigating a minefield. There are tons of factors to consider. But let’s cut through the noise. Here’s what really matters when you’re picking a travel companion for your overhead compartment:
- Weight: Every ounce counts. The lighter the bag, the more room you’ve got for essentials (or that extra bottle of rum you picked up in the duty-free) without getting dinged by those pesky weight limits.
- Shell: Hard shell or soft shell? It’s a debate for the ages. Both have their pros and cons when it comes to durability, flexibility and how much you can cram in there.
- Wheels: Two wheels or four? This decision can make or break your airport experience. Do you want to be that person dragging a wonky bag or gliding through the terminal like you’re on wheels yourself?
- Style: Sure, you want a bag that looks good. But more importantly, you need one that stands out from the sea of black nylon on the baggage carousel without becoming a target for pesky pickpockets. Distinctive, not generic, is the name of the game.
- Price: Look, a good bag shouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg. But it also shouldn’t fall apart before you’ve even left the airport. You want a sweet spot – a quality that lasts without requiring a second mortgage.
Now, if you’re the type to roll up to the airport with a Louis Vuitton trunk, this probably isn’t the guide for you. And if you’re looking for a suitcase that costs less than your airport lunch, well, you might be in the wrong place, too.
But, if you’re after a carry-on that’s built to last, offers killer value, and looks sharp enough to get you noticed (for the right reasons), all without blowing your vacation budget before you’ve even left the ground, then stick around. You’re in good company.
How We Chose The Best Luggage Brands
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On
Details:
21.5″ x 15.25″ x10″ | 6.5 lbs
Offering one of the lightest hardshell carry-on luggage designs on the market, the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Spinner is a quality cabin bag at a great price. The product features a unique and recognizable design, a stylish, modern finish, and a solid build that can handle the rigors of international travel.
You’ll find this one in our family travel packing list as well as many other resources, thanks to its great design, fun, selection of bright colors, and quality craftsmanship.
Features:
- 10-year limited warranty
- TSA combination lock
- Ultra-light, ultra-strong shell casing
- Four Multi-Directional double spinner wheels allow 360-degree upright rolling, so there is no weight on your arm or shoulder
- Cross-ribbon and divider for easy packing, multiple pockets to keep belongings organized, and built-in ID tag
- Expansion zipper allows you to pack more items, and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed
- Push-button locking handles provide easy maneuverability when extended out from the suitcase and store neatly inside when not in use
Delsey Paris Premium Aero Carry-On
Details:
21″ x 14″ x10″ | 8.2 lbs
One look at the Delsey Paris Premium Aero and it will be pretty clear why I love this cabin bag. The stylish looks combined with proven Delsey quality make this one of the best carry-on luggage choices for frequent travelers. Its predecessor was our choice for the best carry-on bag last year.
Delsey is a tried and tested brand that continually delivers quality luggage that offers great affordability and excellent build quality. It’s a tad heavier than some, but not enough to cause most travelers to adjust their packing style.
Features:
- Expandable main compartment
- 4 Double wheels for better rotation and stability
- An accessible front compartment that holds up to a 15.6″ laptop
- 2-stop handle system
- Side handle
- Made of 100% polycarbonate
TravelPro Platinum Elite Softside Carry-on
Details:
23″ x 14.5″ x 9″ | 7.8 lbs
Although I’ve found that hardshell carry-on bags tend to make the best suitcases for travel, the TravelPro Platinum Elite carry-on luggage offers a quality build paired with elegant design choices that earned it a position on this list.
The wide wheelbase adds stability without adding to the overall dimensions of the luggage. The high-tensile frame gives excellent strength and is exceptionally lightweight. The bag is also expandable. The soft-sided material means that this luggage is a good choice for travelers who tend to over-stuff their bags.
A unique feature of the Travelpro that I LOVE is the dedicated power bank pocket connecting to an external USB port. This means that you can have a portable power source with you at the airport. No more searching for open outlets.
Features:
- Dedicated power bank pocket with external USB port
- The optional two-tone design is fantastic-looking
- Precision glide system with power scope handle
- Included suit packs for wrinkle-free packing
- Lifetime warranty
Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Spinner
Details:
23″ x 14.5″ x 9.5″ | 8.1 lbs
Travelpro makes this list twice for the best carry-on luggage brands. This company has been quietly making waves in the luggage industry for a few years, and its latest models are among the top carry-on bags available. Their new Premium Elite line takes what they learned from earlier designs and improves on it substantially.
The exterior is modern and clean. The Platinum Elite also comes in a range of color,s so it’s easy to identify at the airport. The interior pockets are well laid out with higher-quality zips and compartments. And the entire luggage is lighter and more maneuverable than the first iteration.
Like its soft-sided sibling, the Platinum Elite Hardside carry-on also has a dedicated power bank pocket and an external USB (A & C) port so that you’ll always have access to power. No more searching for outlets at the terminal.
Features:
- PrecisionGlide wheel system delivers precise control and effortless roll
- PowerScope Lite handle and MagnaTrac self-aligning magnetic spinner wheels
- External USB A & C ports with fast-charge capabilities let you power your electronics on the go, and the external battery pocket is hidden inside the expansion feature for easy access and FAA compliance (Power bank not included)
- Ultra-strong 100% polycarbonate hard shell with aluminum corner guards protects contents and has a stylish, textured finis,h which helps reduce the visibility of scuffs or scratching
Osprey Ozone 22″ Wheeled Luggage
The Osprey Ozone might seem like a strange fit in this lineup, but hear me out before you judge. Osprey makes our favorite hiking day packs, and they also make one of the best child carriers on the market. They know how to make a great bag, and they stand behind them with one of the best warranties available.
The Osprey Ozone is laid out closer to a wheeled backpack, giving it an incredibly lightweight design. Its soft shell build makes it flexible, yet it’s tough enough to handle the toils of travel.
Features:
- Meets carry-on size restrictions for most domestic airlines (21.7H X 14.2W X 9.1D inches).
- Durable 14″ HighRoad LT Chassis provides high-rolling clearance and a smooth ride.
- Large, quick, easy to access liquids pocket at the top of the pack.
- A large panel zip opening with lockable zippers provides easy access to the main compartment.
- The rear panel zippered pocket offers bonus space for dirty or wet clothes.
Matching Your Luggage to Your Adventure: Finding the Perfect Carry-On
Let’s face it: a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for travel, and it definitely doesn’t work for luggage. Every trip has its own unique demands and its own packing challenges. Choosing the right carry-on means finding a bag that’s up to the task, whatever the adventure. By considering the most common travel scenarios, you can find the perfect suitcase to meet your specific needs, ensuring you’re prepared for anything the road throws your way.
Choosing a Carry-On for Plane Travel: Navigating the Skies with the Right Bag
Air travel has its own set of rules, especially when it comes to luggage. To avoid hassles at check-in and ensure a smooth journey, here’s what to keep in mind when choosing a carry-on for your flights:
1. Know Your Airline’s Limits: Don’t Get Grounded by Fees
Every airline has its own specific weight and size restrictions for carry-on luggage, and these can vary depending on the route, fare class, and even the aircraft type. Before you even start looking at suitcases, do your homework.
Check the websites of the airlines you fly with most frequently and familiarize yourself with their current carry-on policies. This will prevent any nasty surprises (and extra fees) at the airport. Keep in mind that budget airlines often have stricter limits. Don’t assume you know the rules – always double-check.
2. Size Matters: Will It Fit in the Overhead Bin?
Those overhead bins might seem spacious, but they have limits. Exceeding the airline’s size restrictions can mean having to gate-check your bag, which can lead to delays and the risk of lost or damaged luggage. Those size limitations can change by region, too. North American airlines tend to be more generous with their sizes than European airlines.
Most airlines provide dimensions (length + width + height) on their websites. Use a measuring tape to ensure your chosen carry-on fits within these limits. Remember that wheels and handles are often included in the measurements.
If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to understand the size restrictions for luggage within those regions. While a carry-on bag may be permitted on a North American flight, it may need to be checked on a flight within Europe or Asia.
3. Liftability: Can You Hoist It Comfortably?
You’ll be lifting that carry-on into the overhead bin, potentially several times during your journey. Make sure you choose a bag that you can comfortably lift, even when it’s fully packed. Consider its weight when empty and imagine it filled with your belongings.
Airlines also have weight limits. While you may be able to lift a bag over the limit into the overhead compartment, you may be forced to check it if it is over a certain weight. This is where a lighter bag can come in handy.
If you regularly travel with heavy items, you might want to opt for a lightweight bag to avoid exceeding weight restrictions. If you travel with a bad back, for example, it may make sense to check your bag to avoid heavy lifting. This will allow you to fly with a lighter backpack.
4. Beyond the Basics: Other Considerations for Air Travel
- Security: A TSA-approved lock is essential for protecting your belongings.
- Maneuverability: Four spinner wheels will make navigating crowded airports much easier.
- Durability: Air travel can be tough on luggage. Choose a bag that’s built to withstand the rigors of baggage handling.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a carry-on that will make your air travel experience smoother, more efficient, and less stressful.
Choosing a Carry-On for Road Trips: Mastering the Art of the Highway Haul
Road trips are all about freedom and flexibility, but they also require smart packing, especially when it comes to luggage. Choosing a carry-on for your four-wheeled adventure can maximize space and make loading and unloading a breeze. Here’s how to pick the right bag for your next road trip:
1. Think Tetris: Optimize Your Trunk Space
Unlike air travel, where you’re battling overhead bin dimensions, road trips are all about maximizing trunk space. Carry-on luggage, with its compact and often boxy design, can be surprisingly efficient for road trips.
Think of it like a game of Tetris – you want pieces that fit neatly together, leaving as little empty space as possible. This is especially crucial if you are traveling with multiple people as part of a group.
2. Size and Shape: Measure Your Trunk, Not Just the Bag
Before you fall in love with a particular suitcase, grab a measuring tape and get acquainted with the dimensions of your vehicle’s trunk or cargo area. Consider not only the length and width but also the height, especially if you have a sloping rear window or any unusual features. You might be surprised by how much space you actually have.
Knowing your trunk’s dimensions will help you choose a carry-on (or multiple carry-ons) that fits comfortably without awkward gaps or overhangs. Consider adding a cargo box to your roof rack to store even more luggage, but be aware of how this affects your center of gravity and gas mileage.
3. The Lifting Lowdown: Save Your Back
Even though you’re not hoisting your bag into an overhead bin, you’ll still be lifting it in and out of your vehicle, potentially multiple times throughout your trip. Choose a carry-on that you can manage comfortably, even when it’s fully packed.
Consider the bag’s weight when empty and imagine it filled with your road trip essentials. You could consider packing your essentials into a smaller, easier-to-lift bag that you can easily grab from the larger bag when you reach your destination.
4. Hardshell vs. Softshell: Stackability vs. Flexibility
For road trips, hardshell carry-ons often have an edge when it comes to stacking. Their rigid structure allows them to be piled neatly without crushing the contents. However, softshell bags offer more flexibility for squeezing into tight spaces and often have exterior pockets for easy access to frequently used items. Ultimately, both options can work well. Consider which is better suited to your packing needs and travel style.
5. Beyond the Bag: Road Trip Considerations
- Accessibility: Think about what items you’ll need to access during the drive (snacks, drinks, entertainment, first-aid kit). Consider a separate, smaller bag for these essentials.
- Organization: Packing cubes can be your best friend on a road trip, helping you keep your belongings organized and easily accessible within your carry-on.
- Security: If you’re leaving your luggage in your car unattended, make sure it’s out of sight and consider a bag with lockable zippers.
- Weight Distribution: If you are traveling with others, make sure you distribute the weight evenly in your vehicle. This will help with both gas mileage and handling.
By choosing the right carry-on and packing strategically, you can make the most of your vehicle’s space and enjoy a more organized and stress-free road trip.
Choosing a Carry-On for Cruise Ships: Smooth Sailing from Embarkation to Disembarkation
Cruise vacations offer a unique blend of relaxation and exploration, and your luggage plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth sailing throughout your journey. While cruises are generally more forgiving than airlines when it comes to luggage restrictions, there are still some key factors to consider when choosing a carry-on for your time at sea:
1. Beyond the Carry-On: The Checked Bag Advantage
While this guide focuses on carry-on luggages, it’s worth noting that cruises often allow you to check larger bags with fewer restrictions than airlines. This is your chance to pack those extra outfits, shoes, and accessories without worrying about weight limits (though always confirm the specific cruise line’s policies). H
owever, keep in mind that you might not have access to your checked luggage for several hours after boarding, so pack your carry-on accordingly.
2. Carry-On Essentials: What to Keep Close at Hand
Your carry-on should contain everything you need for the first few hours of your cruise, as well as any valuables or essentials you wouldn’t want to be separated from. This typically includes:
- Travel documents: Passport, boarding pass, cruise documents, ID.
- Medications: Any prescription or over-the-counter medications you need.
- Change of clothes: Swimsuit, cover-up, and a comfortable outfit for exploring the ship.
- Toiletries: Travel-sized toiletries to freshen up after boarding.
- Valuables: Jewelry, electronics, cameras, etc.
- Comfort Items: A light sweater or jacket, as temperatures on board can vary.
3. Cabin Size Considerations: Think Compact
While cruise ships offer luxurious amenities, cabins can sometimes be compact, especially interior or oceanview staterooms. When choosing your carry-on, opt for a size that will fit comfortably in your cabin without taking up valuable space. Measure the under-bed storage or closet space if possible (you can often find cabin dimensions on the cruise line’s website or on cruise forums). Remember, a smaller bag might actually make your cruise experience more comfortable.
4. Durability Matters: Handling the High Seas
Your luggage will likely be stacked with other bags during loading and unloading, so durability is essential. A hardshell carry-on can offer better protection for your belongings in these situations. Look for sturdy construction, reinforced corners, and reliable zippers. Consider packing a small luggage scale to ensure your bag meets the airline’s weight limit for your return flight.
5. Beyond the Cabin:
- Maneuverability: Spinner wheels are highly recommended for navigating busy embarkation and disembarkation areas, as well as the ship’s corridors.
- Identification: Make sure your bag is easily identifiable with a luggage tag, ribbon, or unique design to avoid mix-ups during loading and unloading.
- Security: While cruise ships are generally safe, it’s always a good idea to use a TSA-approved lock to secure your belongings.
By choosing a well-designed and durable carry-on, and packing it strategically, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience from the moment you step on board.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Carry-On: Avoid Gate-Check Grief
When it comes to carry-on luggage, size matters. Choosing the right dimensions can be the difference between breezing through security and having your bag relegated to the cargo hold. And while bigger might seem better, it’s not always the case. Here’s how to navigate the world of carry-on sizing:
1. Airline Restrictions: Your Rulebook for the Skies
Every airline has its own set of rules when it comes to carry-on size, and these rules are not suggestions. Ignoring them can lead to delays, extra fees, and the dreaded gate-check scenario. Before you even consider a new carry-on, familiarize yourself with the size restrictions of the airlines you fly with most frequently. You can usually find this information on their websites, often in the “Baggage Information” or “Travel Information” sections.
2. The Standard Carry-On Size: A Good Starting Point
While airline policies vary, a common carry-on size limit is 22 inches long x 14 inches wide x 9 inches high (56 x 36 x 23 centimeters). This typically translates to a 45 linear inch limit (length + width + height).
Many carry-on bags are designed to meet these dimensions, but always double-check the measurements, including wheels and handles. This is especially important if you are flying on international airlines, as their requirements may be different.
3. How to Measure Your Luggage: Get It Right
Don’t rely solely on the manufacturer’s stated dimensions. Grab a measuring tape and measure your bag yourself to be absolutely sure. Here’s how:
- Length: Measure from the ground to the top of the bag, including the handle (when it’s not extended).
- Width: Measure across the widest part of the bag, including any protruding pockets or handles.
- Height: Measure from one side to the other, including wheels and any feet on the bottom of the bag.
- Linear Inches: Add the length, width, and height measurements together.
4. Weight Limits: Don’t Forget the Scale
Size isn’t the only factor; weight matters too. Airlines have weight limits for carry-on bags, and exceeding them can result in extra fees or the need to check your bag. Use a luggage scale to weigh your packed bag before you head to the airport. Remember, a lighter bag gives you more leeway for packing.
5. Checked Bag Considerations: When Bigger Might Be Better
Checked luggage typically has fewer size restrictions than carry-ons. However, bags exceeding a certain size (often 62 linear inches) may be considered “oversized” and subject to additional fees. If you’re planning to check a bag, be sure to check your airline’s policies on both size and weight limits. While checked bags offer more packing space, keep in mind that they also come with the risk of being delayed, lost, or damaged.
6. The Hidden Dangers of Overpacking:
Even if your bag meets the airline’s size and weight limits, overpacking can still be a problem. An overstuffed bag can be difficult to maneuver and lift into the overhead bin and may not fit properly, potentially leading to damage or delays. Pack smart and avoid the temptation to cram in that extra item “just in case.”
By understanding airline restrictions, measuring your luggage accurately, and packing strategically, you can choose a carry-on that’s the perfect size for your travels, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.
What Features to Look For in a Carry-On: Beyond the Hype
So you’ve nailed down the right size for your carry-on. Now it’s time to dive into the features that separate a good bag from a great one. Here’s what to consider to make your travels as smooth and hassle-free as possible:
1. Wheels: Two vs. Four – The Great Debate
The days of lugging a heavy suitcase through the airport are (thankfully) over. Wheels are standard, but the two-wheel vs. four-wheel debate rages on.
- Two-Wheeled Rollers (Inline Skate Wheels): These bags, sometimes called rollers, have two fixed wheels, usually recessed into the body of the suitcase.
- Pros: Generally more durable, often provide slightly more packing space, less likely to roll away on an incline.
- Cons: You have to tilt the bag to roll it, which means you’re supporting some of the weight.
- Four-Wheeled Spinners: These bags have four wheels that each swivel independently, allowing you to push or pull the bag in any direction.
- Pros: Effortless maneuverability, especially in tight spaces. You don’t have to support the weight of the bag.
- Cons: Wheels are more exposed and potentially more prone to damage. They can also take up a bit more space, and the bag might roll away on an incline if you’re not careful.
The Verdict: Spinners offer unparalleled convenience for navigating airports and city streets. However, if durability is your top priority, two-wheeled rollers might be a safer bet.
2. Shell Game: Hard vs. Soft
The hard shell vs. soft shell debate is another common dilemma. Both have their strengths and weaknesses.
- Softshell:
- Pros: Lighter, more flexible (can squeeze into tight spaces), often have exterior pockets for easy access to essentials.
- Cons: Less protection for fragile items, more susceptible to rips and tears, not as weatherproof.
- Hardshell:
- Pros: Superior protection for contents, more durable overall, often more water-resistant, and stackable.
- Cons: Less forgiving for overpackers, no exterior pockets, can be heavier.
The Verdict: Hardshell bags are generally the better choice for protecting your belongings, especially if you’re carrying anything fragile. Softshell bags offer more flexibility and are often lighter. Consider your packing style and priorities.
3. Handle with Care: Don’t Overlook the Luggage Handle
A flimsy or poorly designed handle can ruin your travel experience. Don’t underestimate this seemingly simple feature!
- Attachment Point: Look for a sturdy attachment where the handle meets the bag. This is a common point of failure on cheaper bags.
- Length: Make sure the handle extends long enough for you to pull the bag comfortably without hunching over. If you’re tall, look for extra-long handles.
- Multiple Stops: A telescoping handle with multiple locking positions allows you to adjust it to the perfect height.
- Construction: A two-post handle is generally more stable and durable than a single-post handle.
4. The Weight Game: Lighter is Always Better
With airlines becoming increasingly strict about weight limits, choosing a lightweight carry-on is crucial. But a lighter bag isn’t just about avoiding fees; it’s about making your travels easier on your body.
- Material Matters: Polycarbonate and high-denier nylon are good choices for lightweight yet durable construction.
- Target Weight: Aim for a wheeled carry-on that weighs 5 lbs (2.3 kg) or less when empty.
5. Warranty: A Brand’s Promise
A solid warranty is a sign that a company stands behind its product. Look for brands that offer generous warranties, preferably lifetime, that cover defects in materials and workmanship.
- Read the Fine Print: Understand what the warranty covers and what it doesn’t. Some warranties may exclude damage caused by airlines or normal wear and tear.
6. Color and Aesthetics: Stand Out from the Crowd
Let’s be honest: a sea of black bags makes it tough to spot yours on the carousel. Consider a brighter color or a unique design to make your luggage easily identifiable.
- Personalize It: Add a colorful luggage tag, a distinctive ribbon, or stickers to make your bag stand out.
- Avoid White: While it might look chic in the store, a white suitcase is a magnet for dirt and scuffs.
7. Weatherproofing: Ready for Anything
Unexpected downpours happen. A water-resistant or waterproof bag can protect your belongings from the elements.
- Zippers Matter: Look for water-resistant zippers or zipper covers.
- Hardshell Advantage: Hardshell bags generally offer better water resistance than softshell bags.
8. Durability: Built to Last
Your carry-on should be able to withstand the bumps, drops, and general wear and tear of travel.
- Material: Look for high-quality materials like polycarbonate, high-denier nylon, or durable ABS plastic.
- Construction: Reinforced corners, sturdy stitching, and robust zippers are all signs of a well-made bag.
9. Price: Finding the Sweet Spot
Luggage prices can range from budget-busting to “are you kidding me?” You don’t need to spend a fortune to get a good bag, but avoid the cheapest options, as they’re likely to fall apart quickly.
- Value for Money: Look for a balance of quality, features, and price. A well-made bag that lasts for years is a better investment than a cheap one that needs to be replaced frequently.
The Bottom Line: Your Carry-On is a Tool, Not a Trophy
Look, you can drop a grand on a suitcase. But does that make it the best carry-on? Not necessarily. And yeah, you can find a dirt-cheap bag that might last you one trip. Maybe. But is that really what you want to gamble on when you’re heading off on an adventure?
Here’s the deal: your luggage, especially your carry-on, is a tool. It’s not a fashion statement (though it shouldn’t be an eyesore either). It’s a workhorse. It needs to be reliable, durable, and functional. It needs to fit your travel style, whether you’re a weekend warrior, a business jet-setter, or a globetrotting explorer.
For this guide, we’ve aimed for that sweet spot: carry-ons that deliver quality and performance without requiring you to take out a second mortgage. We’re talking about bags in the $150 to $500 range. Bags that are built to last offer smart features and look good when doing it. Because at the end of the day, your focus should be on the journey, not on worrying about whether your luggage can handle it.
Now, get out there and explore the world.
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