The Best Carry On Luggage For European Travel In 2024

Hailey Abbott By, Hailey Abbott
Updated
Best Carry On Luggage For European Travel
Best Carry On Luggage For European Travel

Our Top Picks

1. Best Choice: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

Comfort, style and features come together in the Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage by Samsonite. This lightweight luggage is designed to be sleek and stylish with four multi-directional spinner wheels for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight design, side-mounted TSA locks that act to deter theft, expansion capability that allows you to pack more items, and a push-button locking handle for easy maneuverability. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage

When it comes to traveling light, this bag is perfect. The carry-on spinner wheels allow for effortless mobility and re-engineered lightweight materials keep the weight down. The handsome slider in squared design features oversized No.10 zipper and a full-capacity design with interior divider with organization pockets. Read Review

3. Best Lightweight: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage with 4 Spinner Wheels, Lightweight Suitcase is a 19-inch expandable spinner suitcase that's half a pound lighter than the maxlite 4 version. This ultra lightweight, ultra durable suitcase has polyester fabric with stain resistant, water repellant duraguard coating and ergonomic, high tensile strength zipper pulls for lasting durability. Read Review

4. Largest Capacity: DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage

The largest capacity, best maneuverability, and most durable hard side suitcase. The Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels is designed for those who need a lot of packing space and want to travel in style. This suitcase expands up to 2 inches for additional packing space. The suitcase features a fully lined interior and an adjustable shoulder strap, making it ideal for personal items that need to be organized and easy to transport. Read Review

Do you need to pack light? Are you planning a European vacation but don’t know what to take with you? Or maybe your trip is for business and you have to fit in all your personal items as well as business papers and materials? Regardless of the case, Europe has more than its fair share of bag-friendly destinations.

If you’re looking to hit the road without lugging along a heavy suitcase, opting for a lightweight carry-on backpack is your best bet. Not only will it make traveling more convenient, but it will also leave plenty of space in your checked luggage so that you can bring home more souvenirs. In this blog post, we’ll list out some of the best carry-on backpacks for traveling in Europe.

We think the best carry on luggage for european travel is Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage, with that you will have no difficulty finding anything to meet your needs! To help you find the best fit for your needs, We've put up a purchasing guide and also shown other great options for you to consider.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.9
Samsonite
  • 20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light
  • MICRO-DIAMOND POLYCARBONATE texture is extremely scratch-resistant, keeping cases beautiful trip after trip
  • BOOK OPENING CASE with mesh divider and cross straps in main compartment with a zipped modesty pocket
  • FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL OVERSIZED SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight
  • SIDE-MOUNTED TSA LOCKS act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling
  • PACKING Dimensions: 19" x 14.5" x 9.5", Overall Dimensions: 22" x 15" x 9.5", Weight: 6.81 lbs.
  • EXPANSION to allow you to pack more items and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed
  • PUSH-BUTTON locking handles provides easy maneuverability when extended out from the suitcase, and stores neatly inside when not in use
  • 10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
TOP Choice #2 Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.7
Samsonite
  • Carry-On meets these airlines' size restrictions: United, American, Delta, Southwest, Allegiant
  • FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight
  • SIDE-MOUNTED TSA LOCKS act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling
  • LIGHTWEIGHT locking telescopic handle
  • FULL-ZIP INTERIOR DIVIDER and cross straps for increased packing organization
  • HANDSOME SLIDER in squared full-capacity design featuring oversized No.10 zipper and interior divider with organization pockets
  • PACKING Dimensions: 20.0" x 13.5" x 9.5", OVERALL Dimensions: 23.0" x 14.5" x 9.5", Weight: 6.7 lbs.
  • UNIFIED BRUSHED PATTERN CUSTOM DESIGN on front and back shells hide any potential scratches or scuffs from your journey
  • 10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
  • 20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light
TOP Choice #3 Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.5
Travelpro
  • Expands upto 2 inches to maximize packing capacity with tapered shape to prevent tipping; Features low profile top, side and bottom carry handles, 2 exterior compartments, full length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket and adjustable hold down straps for packing convenience and flexibility
  • A half pound lighter than the maxlite 4 version, this ultra lightweight, ultra durable 19 inches expandable spinner suitcase maximizes your packing power and meets carry on size restrictions for most international airlines; Polyester fabric with stain resistant, water repellant duraguard coating and ergonomic, high tensile strength zipper pulls provide lasting durability
  • 4 wheel spinners rotate 360 degree for a smooth roll in any direction; Lightweight yet sturdy PowerScope Lite handle with stops at 38 inches and 42.5 inches features a patented contour grip with comfortable, rubberized touchpoints for effortless maneuvering; Unique bottom tray design increases durability and stabilizes wheels for trouble free alignment and steering
  • Limited lifetime coverage plus new trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year
  • Case Dimensions: 19x15x7.75, Overall Dimensions: 21.75x15.75x7.75 Weight: 5.3 pounds ; Volume : 39 L
  • Four twin spinner wheels assuring multi-directional rolling and optional stability with zero weight on your hand
  • Convenient and Secure Packing: Two large fully-lined compartments with multiple pockets allow easy access and organization for all of your items. Web straps and a zippered divider secure clothing and help minimize wrinkles.The 4 twin spinner wheels all rotate 360 degrees
  • Integrated 3-dial tsa-accepted combination lock
  • 100% polycarbonate with glossy finish which makes the case extremely lightweight
  • Fully lined interior with two compartments for packing and organizing clothes and travel accessories
  • Largest Capacity: This suitcase expands up to 2 inches for additional packing space. This feature is great for packing sovenirs on return journeys.
  • Recessed "one-button" locking handle system with industrial grade aluminum tubes and molded ergonomic comfort grip handle
  • Lightweight and Durable: Made of 100% Polycarbonate, which is a material that is extremely resilient to cracking or breaking, with a deep metallic finish
  • Maximum Comfort: This carry on bag has a comfortable handle system that locks into two positions for ease of use. BODY DIMENSIONS - 20.5x14.5x10 inches
  • Superior Maneuverability: The double spinner wheels assure exceptional maneuverability and keep ZERO weight on your arm.
5 Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade Carry-On Luggage
Our Score:
9.2
Kenneth Cole REACTION
  • Expands an additional 2 inches
  • Main compartment interior features several zippered organization pockets elastic shoe pockets and a garment restraint panel
  • Sleek and stylish exterior with corner guard reinforcements helps protect your bag from damage
  • Overall Dimensions - 22" H x 14" L x 9-11" D.
  • 8-wheel multi-directional spinners for effortless handling
  • Packing Dimensions - 20" H x 13.5" L x 8.5-10.5" D.
  • Ergonomically designed retractable trolley handle
  • Weight - 7.35 lbs.
  • SCRATCH-RESISTANT POLYCARB twill texture, keeping cases beautiful trip after trip
  • 10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
  • PACKING Dimensions: 19.6”x 14.75” x 9.5”, OVERALL DIMENSIONS: 22.5” x 15.5”x 9.5”, Weight: 7.5 pounds
  • FULL-ZIP INTERIOR DIVIDER and cross straps for increased packing organization
  • FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL OVERSIZED SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight
  • 1.5" EXPANSION to allow you to pack more items and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed
  • SIDE-MOUNTED TSA LOCKs act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling
  • PUSH-BUTTON locking handles provides easy maneuverability when extended out from the suitcase, and stores neatly inside when not in use
  • 20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light
  • Deluxe interior featuring removable hanger and laundry and shoe bags; two large lined compartments with web straps to keep items secure and wrinkle free
  • Lightweight and durable 100% polycarbonate shell that is extremely resilient to cracking or breaking; designed with stylish faux leather accents
  • Recessed 3-dial TSA approved combination lock for security; unique brake system locks two front wheels to prevent bag from rolling away
  • Four spinner wheels assuring a stable base with multi-directional rolling with zero weight on your hand for easy travel
  • Recessed "one-button" locking handle system for great maneuverability; 21 inch carry on size is perfect for weekend getaways and short business trips
  • Multi-directional 4-wheel spinners for smooth handling.
  • Weight - 6.65 lbs.
  • Flexible top, bottom, and side grab handles allow for easy lifting.
  • Overall Dimensions - 22.0” H x 14.0” L x 10.0” D.
  • Durable, hardside ABS exterior with molded corner guard reinforcements and a tear-resistant, fully lined interior.
  • Retractable telescoping trolley handle extends 41 inches.
  • Packing Dimensions - 20.0” H x 13.5” L x 9.5” D.
  • Meets most U. S based & international airline carry-on size requirements and fits into most overhead bins
  • Main compartment interior features several zippered organization pockets and a garment restraint panel.
  • Overall Dimensions: H: 23 in. W: 14.5 in. D: 9.5 in.; Case Dimensions: H: 19.75 in. W: 13.75 in. D: 9.5 in.; Weight: 6.3 lbs. Durable hard case luggage backed by Travelpro built for a Lifetime Limited Warranty with our Trusted Companion Promise which includes the cost of repair for damage caused by an airline or other common carrier for the first year after registration
  • This hard shell carry on luggage has interior zippered divider panels and accessory pocket to keep contents organized, separated, and secure while the interior lining with H20 guard is made of 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles to help reduce environmental waste
  • Sizer bin carry on luggage with spinner wheels tested to fit in the overhead bins of most major domestic airlines while allowing for more packing capacity. Hard shell luggage with 8 Spinner wheels that rotate 360°, providing superior maneuverability and a smooth glide in every direction
  • This lightweight luggage has 100% Polycarbonate hardshell engineered for impact-absorbing flexibility with a stylish outer finish that helps reduce visible scratches and scuffs. Built-in lock allows TSA authorities to safely unlock and relock this carry on suitcase for inspection when needed (default code set at 0-0-0)
  • This carry-on luggage has low profile top and side carry handles along with bottom grip provide multiple carrying options. Roomy main compartment expands 2” to maximize packing capacity when needed for this hard luggage
10 SwissGear 4010 Softside Luggage
Our Score:
8.3
SwissGear
  • DIMENSIONS: Packing Dimensions: 16” x 13.5” x 7.5”; Product Dimensions (includes wheels and handles): 21.5” x 15” x 9”; weight: 5.7 lbs
  • FULL FEATURED INTERIOR: Equipped with a fully lined interior, maximize packing efficiency with multiple interior packing pockets, and adjustable tie down straps to help keep clothing in place while on the move.
  • MULTIPLE FRONT PANEL POCKETS: Exterior front panel features two front zip compartments to organize travel essentials required while traveling as well as last-minute add-in items.
  • 360-degree spinner maneuverablity: propped on 4 wheels and a locking retractable handle, take advantage of its easy pushing and pulling maneuverability to seamlessly get through a crowded airport or down narrow airplane isles.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT LIFT HANDLE: Comfortable lightweight top lift handle for easy lifting and maneuvering without the bulk.

What to Look For in a best carry on luggage for european travel?

Until now, numerous customers trust the information and advice we offer them, which means our offers to you are accurate and up to date all the time. This objective is being pursued with tremendous zeal and attention. 

It's necessary to keep in mind the following points for selecting best carry on luggage for european travel:

Expandability

A lot of suitcases have an expandable panel that can be removed to give you at least 10% more packing space. If you're looking for last-minute souvenirs and gifts, some of our top-scoring full-size and cabin suitcases can be expanded.

Weight

Checked luggage: Full-size bags are allowed, but the weight limits vary by airline (see below). Excess baggage fees can be very high so make sure your bag isn't too heavy. Regular flyers might find it useful to purchase luggage scales. Keep in mind, however that you will need to pack more outfits if your suitcase is empty. We found that the best suitcases were as light as 2.3kg empty. Bulkier options weighed in at around 6.2kg.
Hand luggage: Some airlines may have restrictions on the weight of cabin cases. You don't have to give up books, souvenirs and gifts if you choose a lighter cabin bag or fly with an airline that is more flexible.

Size

Cases up to full-size: How easy will your suitcase fit into the car's boot if you plan to drive to the airport? It will it be possible to carry the bag around in crowds? There's also the baggage rack at the airport bus. You could hoist it onto the top. You might consider a lighter option if your travels are less than two weeks. A piece of luggage should be durable enough to endure rough transit conditions, yet not cause you pain.
Hand luggage is allowed on most airlines. Some allow for a second hand bag, such as a backpack, or sling bag. A suitcase that is "cabin-size" does not necessarily mean that it can fit into a cabin. Although there are restrictions on size, many airlines will accept suitcases up to 56x45x25 cm.

Handles

Practicality is enhanced by suitcases that have handles at the top and sides. This extra handle along with the towing handle makes it much simpler to lift your suitcase onto and off luggage racks, check-in scales, and baggage carousels.
Top handles can extend into several positions to provide maximum comfort. When not in use, they can be retracted for easy pushing down.

Storage

There are many internal pockets that you can find in both hard-shell and soft-sided luggages. These include small pockets with integrated zippers and large pouched pockets that will hold a laptop. You can also have removable laundry bags or garment sections to keep your suit jackets from tearing. Soft-sided suitcases are often equipped with external pockets that can be used to store easy-access items.

Wheels

Four-wheelers are the most common type of suitcase. Sometimes called spinners. This means that you don’t need to tip your bag before you tow it. It can also be wheeled along with you. Two-wheeled suitcases tend to be slightly larger and are easier to lift over kerbs. However, spinners offer more versatility.

Security

Traveling with your padlock is important. However, it is recommended that you have one with Transport Security Administration (TSA).
The locks are branded with the TSA red logo and include a universal masterkey.
The TSA is the only one that has this copy. This key allows American airlines security personnel to access your luggage and inspect its contents, without risk.
They can open the lock if they are unable to do so.

FAQs

What Size Suitcase Is Considered Oversized?

While baggage size regulations vary from one airline to the next, most airlines allow luggage to be checked up to 62 inches in length. These airlines would consider bags exceeding these limits to be excessive.

How Much Does It Weigh?

You should look beyond the features and attributes of the bag's pockets when you search for a travel suitcase. Check out the weight of the bag without any contents. This is a mistake I've made more times than once. A bag too heavy to carry around is a temptation that I make love to. You will need to ensure that your bag is light, especially for travelers who want to save baggage fees. Look for bags that claim to be lightweight, or give you an accurate weight. It will not be possible to carry a heavy bag on an airplane from Hawaii, or at train stations across Europe.

Are The Inside Pockets Useful?

Your clothing and personal belongings should be contained in your luggage. Bags with too many pockets end up being useless. Think about what you prefer to pack before you go ahead and click the buy button. You may not want a large zippered lid, so make sure you have a bag that has a great design. Look for suitcases with shoe compartments. Your bag should maximize its space. If your features aren't clear, it won't work.

What Is The Importance Of Luggage?

Because you need to travel a lot, you can also take the bag with you. A well-designed luggage bag will make an impression on other people. Bags are more than just bags. They can also be a fashion statement.

Is The Rolling Handle Double Barred?

You may prefer to carry a rolling bag, but the main part of a suitcase is its handle. Some brands still make luggage that has a single pull handle. Single bar bags are less sturdy than double-bar rolling bags. This feature can fail to work when you're rushing through an airport. You will be in the middle of an arm workout while carrying your bag. This can be avoided by purchasing a bag that has a double-bar handle.

What Is The Most Durable Luggage?

Polycarbonate and ABS are the most reliable luggage materials on the market. While the former is more sturdy, it's usually lighter. Both durable and lightweight luggage can be constructed from both.

Is Hard Or Soft Luggage Better?

Because it is lighter than heavy luggage, soft luggage is more popular. Because of the use of lighter materials in hard luggage, this has been changed. It really depends on personal choice as to which option is better. Many soft luggage has expandable and external pockets. Hard luggage, on the other hand offers greater protection and durability.

In general, we keep collecting and researching new information for best carry on luggage for european travel. Please pay more attention to checking our website regularly or subscribe to our newsletter to read the latest updates.

Along with product-related issues, we can also support you more. So please give us your feedback and response whenever you need it. It will be a significant motivation for us to improve everything


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About Hailey Abbott

Hailey Abbott
Hailey Abbott is an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for CampfireHQ. She has a passion for hunting and fishing, which she often enjoys with her family and friends. Hailey also enjoys staying active through sports such as golf, basketball, and softball. Hailey has worked as an editor for several years, providing content that is both accurate and engaging. She has also had the opportunity to interview numerous experts in various fields. This wealth of experience gives her a unique perspective when writing about the outdoors and other topics.

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