The 10 Best Rated Carry On Luggage, Tested And Researched

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Best rated carry on luggage
Best rated carry on luggage

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 is the most versatile, efficient and lightweight carry-on spinner on the market. This soft-sided spinner is so light, it can fly. It's also our lightest wheeled carry-on suitcase and designed for ultimate comfort and mobility. A dual retractable handle allows for easy lifting and carrying at airports, while a built-in TSA lock secures your travel with peace of mind. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

Introducing a line built to take the harshest travel elements, Omni PC combines scratch resistant textures with the lightest 100% polycarbonate construction. Built to resist the most extreme elements you can find, including professional use on rugged terrain and in high-crime areas. Read Review

3. Best For The Price: Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade Carry-On Luggage

Carry-on luggage is a pain, but not with the new Kenneth Cole Reaction 'Renegade' Collection 20-inch lightweight, hardside, expandable 8-wheel spinner carry-on suitcase by your side. With its sleek look andlightweight design, this suitcases is perfect for professionals looking for something stylish and functional. Made with water resistant fabric, it's also an ideal choice for travelers who want to pack light but still stay protected from the elements. The best part? It Read Review

4. Top Choice: OGIO International Terminal

Looking for a bag that can fit it all and fit your style? Look no further than the OGIO® Terminal Travel bag. This durable, lightweight messenger bag is made with a black pindot canvas exterior and features 360 degrees of padded protection. It's large enough to carry up to a 15" laptop and comes complete with an easy-access front pocket Read Review

When you’re planning your next big trip, it can be tempting to buy everything you need at once. But if you’re like most people, you probably haven’t bought new luggage in years. Instead of buying a whole new set of bags when you want to take a long weekend trip or a short weekend getaway, invest in a few pieces that will last you for years to come.

Carry-on luggage is an overlooked piece of travel gear. Most people don’t use it enough to warrant buying a new one every couple of years, yet we use it more than almost any other single thing in our bags. That makes this category the perfect place to find affordable and high-quality luggage that lasts longer than most people expect it to.

Our team had to focus on researching for 19 hours to get such results for readers. This type of study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. As result, We think the best rated carry on luggage is Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide which is worth your consideration below.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.8
Travelpro

4 wheel spinners rotate 360 degree for a smooth roll. Lightweight, sturdy PowerScope handle stops at 38 inch and 42.5 inch features a patented contour grip with rubberized touch points for easy maneuvering. Unique bottom tray design increases durability

Interior dimension: 21 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches Exterior dimension: 23 inches x 14.5 inches x 9 inches; Volume : 46 liter

Weight: 5.4 lbs.

Limited Lifetime Coverage plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year

A half pound lighter than maxlite 4, this ultra lightweight 21 inch spinner meets carry on size restrictions for most domestic airlines. H20 Guard protects the interior lining from moisture

Expands up to 2 inch to maximize packing capacity. Features low profile top, side and bottom carry handles, two exterior compartments, full length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket and adjustable hold down straps for packing convenience

TOP Choice #2 Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.7
Samsonite

BOOK OPENING CASE with mesh divider and cross straps in main compartment with a zipped modesty pocket

20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light

SIDE-MOUNTED TSA LOCKS act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling

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

PACKING Dimensions: 19" x 14.5" x 9.5", Overall Dimensions: 22" x 15" x 9.5", Weight: 6.81 lbs.

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.

FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL OVERSIZED SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight

MICRO-DIAMOND POLYCARBONATE texture is extremely scratch-resistant, keeping cases beautiful trip after trip

TOP Choice #3 Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade Carry-On Luggage
Our Score:
9.5
Kenneth Cole REACTION

Overall Dimensions - 22" H x 14" L x 9-11" D.

Weight - 7.35 lbs.

Packing Dimensions - 20" H x 13.5" L x 8.5-10.5" D.

Expands an additional 2 inches

Sleek and stylish exterior with corner guard reinforcements helps protect your bag from damage

8-wheel multi-directional spinners for effortless handling

Main compartment interior features several zippered organization pockets elastic shoe pockets and a garment restraint panel

Ergonomically designed retractable trolley handle

4 OGIO International Terminal
Our Score:
9.4
OGIO

Physical characteristics: Color: Black, Height:29", width: 16", Depth: 13", Weight: 10.60lb.

Wide mouth main compartment opening

Interior neoprene lining

Oversized external pocket with internal zippered mesh pocket

Mesh organization dividers with zippered pockets opening

5 Samsonite Centric Hardside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.2
Samsonite

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

PACKING Dimensions: 27.75” x 19.6”x 12.4", OVERALL DIMENSIONS: 30.4” x 20.9”x 12.4”, Weight: 10.8 lbs.

SIDE-MOUNTED TSA LOCKs act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling

28" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and is the ideal checked bag for longer trips

PUSH-BUTTON locking handles provides easy maneuverability when extended out from the suitcase, and stores neatly inside when not in use

FULL-ZIP INTERIOR DIVIDER and cross straps for increased packing organization

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.

SCRATCH-RESISTANT POLYCARB twill texture, keeping cases beautiful trip after trip

A half pound lighter than the maxlite 4 version, this ultra lightweight, ultra durable 22" expandable Rollaboard suitcase maximizes your packing power and meets carry on size restrictions for most domestic airlines. Polyester fabric with stain resistant, water repellant duraguard coating and ergonomic, high tensile strength zipper pulls provide lasting durability

High performance ball bearing wheels and lightweight yet sturdy power scope Lite handle with stops at 38 inches and 42.5 inches reduce wobble and ensure a smooth, easy roll

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

Case Dimensions: 21x14x9 inches, Overall Dimensions: 23x14.5x9 inches, Weight: 5.4 pounds ; Volume : 52 liter

Limited lifetime coverage plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year; H20 Guard protects the interior lining from moisture

20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light

SELF RETRACTING carry handles that maintain a low profile when not in use

Easy-to-use large pull handle with a rubber-enclosed protected push button.

100% POLYCARBONATE that’s tough and scratch resistant

FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL OVERSIZED SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight

PACKING Dimensions: 20.0" x 14.25" x 9.5", OVERALL Dimensions: 22.5" x 14.5" x 9.5", Weight: 6.97 lbs.

NEW FOUR POCKET REVERSIBLE panel that maximizes organization without extra bulk or weight

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

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.

HANGING GARMENT FEATURE & ORGANIZATION: The hanging garment feature includes two removeable hooks to hang this case in your hotel closet without having to wrinkle formal attire. The exterior features two large zip pockets for easy access to travel essentials and documents while the interior has four separate grids that include two shoe pockets, a wet bag, and cinch and zip pockets.

DIMENSIONS: Packing Dimensions: 47.5” x 23” x 4.75”; Product Dimensions (includes wheels and handles): 24” x 23” x 9.5”; Weight: 11.6 lbs.

DURABLE CONSTRUCT: A retractable, telescopic lift handle provide rugged mobility and easily collapses back into the frame when storing your case. Durable in-line wheels glide effortlessly over rough terrain, outlasting traditional two-wheeled cases.

PREMIUM ROLLING WHEEL SYSTEM: This impressive garment bag can carry a remarkable amount of clothes. Don’t let that intimidate you as the premium inline wheels along with the locking retractable handle provide you with ultra-smooth and quiet mobility.

FULL FEATURED GARMENT BAG: This SwissGear 7895 Wheeled Garment bag opens into four separate compartments with tie-down straps and various pockets to store clothes and shoes.

9 SwissGear 4010 Softside Luggage
Our Score:
8.5
SwissGear

LIGHTWEIGHT LIFT HANDLE: Comfortable lightweight top lift handle for easy lifting and maneuvering without the bulk.

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

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.

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.

10 KENNETH COLE REACTION Out Of Bounds Luggage
Our Score:
8.4
Kenneth Cole REACTION

[Overall Dimensions] - 21.75” H x 14.5” W x 8.5” D. ★ (Includes Handle + Wheels)

Equipped with a sturdy and user-friendly push-button retractable trolley handle that extends to be 41 inches.

Fitted with premium 4-wheel multi-directional spinners that allow for smooth effortless 360°-degree free-weight maneuvering.

Backed by a manufacturer 10-year limited guarantee against craftsmanship and manufacturer defects. The perfect lightweight and dependable 20” carry-on suitcase for travelers whom value both style and function in their luggage.

[Packing Dimensions] 20" H x 13.5" W x 7.5" D.

Luggage is made of a durable, lightweight hard ABS exterior with reinforced protective molded corner guards that absorb shock for maximum impact resistance and durability.

Features a lightweight construction that helps you adhere to airline weight restrictions to avoid unneeded airport fees.

20" carry-on suitcase designed to meet most U.S based & international airline carry-on size requirements and designed to fit into most overhead bins.

Exterior features a top and side grab handle for easy maneuvering and four molded side feet that allow luggage to stand upright on its side.

Interior main compartment is fully lined with a tear-resistant lining and features double-sided packing, a zippered organization pocket, and garment restraint straps to hold your clothes in place.

A Simple Way To Choose The best rated carry on luggage For You

Would you like to know how to select the best rated carry on luggage to purchase in 2024? We have a straightforward solution for you. First, consider your own requirements. For instance, should you need something that could be used during workouts, look for products that are made of high-quality materials and are resistant to water.

Consider the price range next. Some people prefer low prices, while others prefer to invest additional money on better quality items, so weigh both choices once making a decision.

Eventually, reading reviews is a simple way to select the best rated carry on luggage to buy. Please read our research below before purchasing anything and follow that guide to select your best rated carry on luggage.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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 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 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.

Conclusion

We hope this blog has provided you with useful information about selecting the best rated carry on luggage to buy. If you're still unsure, consider why you're purchasing a product in the first place.

Here you can select the DELSEY Paris Chatelet Air Hardside Luggage if you are unable to select one of the available items above. Consider whether any of our suggestions aided you in deciding which products to purchase. Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time!


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio