Top Carry-On Suitcases: Elevate Your Travel Experience

In the world of travel, the carry-on luggage you choose can make a significant impact on your journey. The benefits of opting for a carry-on over a checked bag are numerous, from the convenience of skipping baggage claim to the ability to maneuver through various travel scenarios more easily. Regardless of your packing style or travel frequency, there is a carry-on suitcase out there to suit your needs.

Over the past few years, Travel + Leisure has rigorously tested numerous wheeled carry-ons and evaluated them based on factors like capacity, organization, maneuverability, durability, and value. These tests involved creating a mock airplane set in a New York City lab to ensure the carry-ons fit into overhead bins before taking them on real-world trips. The goal was to identify the best carry-ons in the market that are worth investing in.

When choosing a carry-on, it’s essential to consider factors like hardside versus softside construction, lightweight design for ease of handling, and additional organizational features to enhance packing efficiency. The right carry-on can offer extra packing space, innovative design elements, and durable materials to withstand the wear and tear of travel.

One standout carry-on is the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner, which has consistently impressed with its capacity, organization, and durability. This hardside suitcase offers ample packing room and features like an expandable zipper for added depth. Its maneuverability and resilience make it a top choice for travelers seeking a reliable carry-on option.

Another notable contender is the Tumi Alpha International Dual Access Carry-on, known for its exceptional organization and innovative features like a front access pocket and removable garment bag. While slightly heavier, this softside suitcase excels in functionality and durability, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent flyers.

For travelers looking for expandability, the Away The Carry-On Flex offers a generous 2.25 inches of extra packing space without compromising on design or durability. Its thoughtful features and smooth gliding wheels make it a practical choice for those who value versatility in their luggage.

On the more budget-friendly side, the Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside 21-inch Spinner stands out for its lightweight design and impressive capacity. Despite its affordability, this suitcase delivers on quality and functionality, making it a solid choice for travelers on a budget.

In the realm of style and innovation, the Dagne Dover Smaller Seattle Carry-on Luggage combines durability with a sleek design, offering travelers a modern softside option with ample packing space. Its unique features and elegant appearance make it a standout choice for those seeking a blend of fashion and function in their luggage.

For travelers prioritizing durability, the Samsonite Proxis Global Carry-On Spinner shines with its lightweight yet robust construction. Made from Roxkin material, this suitcase is designed to withstand the rigors of travel while offering ample packing space and essential features for a seamless travel experience.

When it comes to spaciousness, the July Carry-on Max impresses with its large capacity and expandable design, ideal for longer trips or travelers needing extra packing room. Despite its size, this hardside suitcase maintains a lightweight profile and offers practical features for efficient packing and organization.

For those in search of a softside option, the Travelpro VersaPack+ Carry-On excels with its thoughtful extras like compression packing cubes, shoe bags, and a laundry bag. While slightly heavier than some softside bags, this suitcase delivers on functionality and organization, making it a reliable choice for travelers seeking versatility in their luggage.

Innovative features like brakes set the Aer Carry-On Max apart, offering travelers a unique solution to prevent their luggage from rolling away in crowded spaces. This hardside suitcase combines practicality with style, featuring a slim profile and essential features for a seamless travel experience.

For a touch of luxury, the Rimowa Cabin S delivers on style and performance with its classic aluminum design and durable construction. While on the smaller side, this carry-on offers travelers a versatile option for short getaways or supplemental packing, showcasing the brand’s signature quality and craftsmanship.

These top carry-on picks cater to a range of traveler preferences and needs, from durability and functionality to style and innovation. Whether you prioritize organization, expandability, or lightweight design, there is a carry-on suitcase on the market to elevate your travel experience and make your journey seamless and stress-free.