Taking precautions while traveling is as essential as investing in reliable carry-on luggage. There’s nothing worse than shoving your clothes into a backpack or duffel bag, only to have the straps rip before your plane even takes off. Or realizing your carry-on doesn’t provide much protection against thieves, leaving you stressed and worried. Trust me, I’ve been there. After testing several carry-ons firsthand on countless trips — some good, some not so much — I can say with certainty:Nno traveler wants those headaches.
With hundreds of options from the best carry-on luggage brands, finding the "perfect" bag can feel like an overwhelming task, especially if you’re just starting out. I’ve been through the ringer, testing various bags across different types of travel, from weekend getaways to long-haul flights, to ensure that what I recommend is truly top tier. It’s all about finding the balance between durability, practicality, and protection.
After spending months putting a range of carry-on bags to the test and scouring the internet for reviews, I’ve narrowed it down to a handful of the best carry-on luggage bags that stand out. In this guide, I’m sharing not just the best options but also some key tips to help you choose the best luggage to replace that tired old rollaboard or travel backpack.
Quick overview
- Sterling Pacific 40L Cabin Travel Case: A ruggedly elegant aluminum suitcase with Italian leather details and silent wheels that’s built like a tank and oozes luxury.
- Monos Carry-On Luggage: A sleek, durable carry-on with a high-strength shell and minimalist design that balances form and function effortlessly.
- Victorinox Mythic Frequent Flyer Carry-On: A refined, ultra-durable carry-on with high-end finishes and smart interior organization built for luxury travelers.
- Peak Design Roller Pro Carry-On: A thoughtfully designed, tech-friendly carry-on with a carbon fiber handle perfect for creatives on the go.
- Delsey Paris Rempart Translucent Carry-On Expandable Spinner: A lightweight, eye-catching spinner with a translucent shell and expandable storage that’s as stylish as it is practical.
- AIRS Expandable Carry-On: A smooth-rolling, minimalist carry-on with subtle structure, lots of color options, and good expansion space.
- Carl Friedrik The Carry-on Suitcase: A premium, leather-accented suitcase with an aluminum lock frame and quiet wheels that merges fashion and function beautifully.
- Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure 40L Carry-On Roller Bag: A hybrid soft-sided roller built tough for adventure travel, with smart compartments and a cool, outdoorsy vibe.
- Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On Expandable Spinner: A premium, ultra-durable carry-on built for frequent travelers, featuring an expandable design and integrated garment folder.
- Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler XT Wheeled Duffel: A lightweight yet rugged duffel made for adventure travelers, offering impressive capacity, versatile carry options, and tough materials that punch above their weight.
- Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack: Designed for comfort on long hauls, this minimalist travel backpack offers stellar weight distribution, breathable support, and a carry-on friendly size for global adventures.
Best overall
Sterling Pacific 40L Cabin Travel Case
- Incredibly durable and secure
- Beautiful aesthetic
- Quality wheels and smooth handling
- Structured internal straps keep things in place
- Premium price point
| Specification: | |
| 22.5 x 14 x 9 inches | Dimensions |
| 12 pounds | Weight |
I’ll start off strong by saying that after testing this suitcase, I think it’s the best carry-on luggage you can buy. The Sterling Pacific 40L is the kind of carry-on that feels more like a legacy piece than just another bag. Made from aluminum with full-grain Italian leather handles, it looks and feels built to last a lifetime — and after testing it a few different times, I can say it’s as rugged as it is refined.
The dual combination locks make me feel secure each time I’m using it, and I love how organized everything stays thanks to the structured leather straps inside. Plus, the silent wheels roll very smoothly over cobblestones and hotel lobbies. It’s definitely an investment piece, but one that turns heads and performs effortlessly. Even pilots swear by this one.
Best value
Monos Carry-On Luggage
- High-quality aluminum exterior
- Smooth, comfortable telescopic handle
- Space-efficient interior with compression pad
- Stylish color options
- Can get scratched easily
| Specification: | |
| 22 x 14 x 9 inches | Dimensions |
| 7 pounds | Weight |
We love luggage that can withstand the stress of air travel, including every part from the shell to the wheels to the handle. You should never take the latter for granted (or neglect it). Let’s take this sleek carry-on luggage from Monos as an example. Manufactured from high-strength aluminum, its telescopic handle is engineered for comfort, making you feel as if the luggage is a ghostly extension of your hand.
This 39.9-liter carry-on also features a space-efficient interior thanks to a zippered panel and compression pad, offering ample space for up to five days’ worth of OOTDs. Available in ten colors (from standard white and black to limited edition terracotta), this carry-on luggage embodies beauty in simplicity and function.
Most luxurious
Victorinox Mythic Frequent Flyer Carry-On
- Sturdy and durable, built to last
- Premium feel with high-end construction
- Excellent wheels and handle for smooth maneuvering
- Well-organized interior
- Limiting packing space for longer trips
| Specification: | |
| 21.7 x 13.8 x 9.1 inches | Dimensions |
| 8.4 pounds | Weight |
If you're looking for a luxurious carry-on that doesn’t compromise on durability, the Victorinox Mythic Frequent Flyer is a standout. While I was testing this one out during a recent trip, I was impressed by the smooth telescopic handle and reinforced corners, which not only add to its sleek appearance but enhance its durability.
Inside, the organization is top notch, with mesh dividers and a compression system that keeps everything in place. Plus, the wheels glide effortlessly, which is a must when it comes to carry-on luggage. Its high-end materials and thoughtful design make it a great choice for travelers who prioritize durability and style. And it pairs perfectly with the matching backpack.
Most versatile
Peak Design Roller Pro Carry-On
- Smooth-rolling wheels
- Carbon fiber handle
- Maximized packing space
- Great for creative professionals
- Design may not appeal to those who prefer a more traditional look
| Specification: | |
| 21.8 x 14 x 9 inches | Dimensions |
| 22.3 x 14.8 x 9.06 inches | Weight |
This one is sleek and seriously well thought out. I got an early opportunity to test this carry-on before it officially launched, and it did not disappoint. The wheels glide like a dream (even across rough airport tile), and the slim, carbon fiber handle was unlike anything I’ve seen before on luggage. Plus, the style of the suitcase itself had heads turning in the airport.
The luggage was designed to maximize packing room, from the way the wheels are set to the slim handle, and I did notice a difference in the packing space. I love all the pockets for storage and the shell feels sturdy enough to take a beating. If you travel often with camera gear, you’re especially going to love this one. You can get an add-on camera cube that fits perfectly inside the suitcase to pack all your camera stuff.
Most stylish
Delsey Paris Rempart Translucent Carry-On Expandable Spinner
- Lightweight
- Eye-catching translucent design
- Expandable for extra packing space
- Smooth double-spinner wheels
- Interior visibility may not appeal to everyone
- Not as rugged as others on the list
| Specification: | |
| 21.75 x 13.75 x 10.25 inches | Dimensions |
| 6.7 pounds | Weight |
I’ll be honest, when it comes to this one, the translucent shell is what first drew me in. It's so unique! But after testing it on a short trip, I realized it’s not just a pretty face. It’s lightweight, the hard shell is surprisingly impact-resistant, and the expandable compartment came in clutch when I picked up a few souvenirs.
The double-spinner wheels made it feel stable and easy to maneuver, and I loved how I could catch a glimpse of what was inside without the entire bag looking see-through. Add the TSA-approved lock and this becomes a stylish, functional option for short getaways.
Most customizable
AIRS Expandable Carry-On
- Lots of color options
- Clean, minimalist design
- Expansion gives more space
- Exterior can scratch easily
| Specification: | |
| 21 x 14 x 9.2 inches | Dimensions |
| 7.2 pounds | Weight |
This one surprised me — in the best way. The AIRS Expandable Carry-On feels structured and durable. The internal compartments are simple but practical — I especially appreciated the compression straps for keeping everything secure. Plus, the expansion zipper adds a surprising amount of space for weekend extras.
My favorite part, though? The wheels. They’re impressively smooth, even when rolling over uneven surfaces, and they make navigating busy terminals feel almost effortless. I also love that this brand offers a bunch of different color options, so it makes it easy to find one that fits your personality perfectly.
Most sleek
Carl Friedrik The Carry-on Suitcase
- Modern design
- Secure aluminum lock frame
- High-quality spinner wheels
- Premium price point
| Specification: | |
| 8.6 pounds | Weight |
| 22.3 x 14.8 x 9.06 inches | Dimensions |
Carl Friedrik's The Carry-on Suitcase strikes a perfect balance between elegance and function. The sleek space gray polycarbonate shell is wrapped with subtle Italian leather straps in one of three colors that together feel both retro and modern.
The 40-liter interior is split between two open compartments, each with compression straps and a single removable compression pad (with a pocket) that are designed to wrangle your travel essentials with ease. A durable aluminum lock frame keeps your valuables safe in transit. We especially love the whisper-quiet Japanese spinner wheels that help you move effortlessly through airports and hotel lobbies.
Best for adventure
Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure 40L Carry-On Roller Bag
- Durable
- Easy to replace parts
- Design isn't for everyone
| Specification: | |
| 21 x 13.5 x 9 inches | Dimensions |
| 6.8 pounds | Weight |
Adventure travel demands serious luggage. But not everyone wants to bring a backpack or duffel. Sometimes you need something with a little more protection. Orvis' all-new Trekkage LT Adventure 40L Carry-On Roller Bag features a soft-sided design on three sides, plus a hardshell polycarbonate back that's built to take a beating.
Available in jet black or Orvis 1971 Camo on the outside, the interior is an eye-popping safety orange that not only looks great but makes it easier to find your gear. It's all built with easily replaceable parts, so you won't have to worry about buying brand-new luggage in a few years. Just replace what needs replacing and get on with your travels.
Best soft-sided option
Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On Expandable Spinner
- Exceptional durability
- Expandable
- Well-thought-out compression system
- Heavy and bulky for a carry-on
- Expensive compared to some other options
| Specification: | |
| 22 x 14 x 9-11.5 inches | Dimensions |
| 10 pounds | Weight |
We’ve previously lauded Briggs and Riley for having not just some of the most durable luggage on the market, but for boasting a phenomenal lifetime warranty to boot. Its Baseline Essential Carry-On Expandable Spinner is a classic carry-on bag with traditional looks and a tank-like design. At roughly $700, it’s pricey and heavy, but it also packs a ton of essential features for road warriors and frequent travelers.
The exclusive “Outsider” handle is designed into the exterior of the bag, ensuring a flat interior for easier packing. The clever CX Compression-Expansion system also balloons by 25 percent should you wind up with more souvenirs than you planned on bringing home. Plus, the integrated garment folder is a must for business travelers looking to maintain a wrinkle-free look fresh off the plane.
Best wheeled duffel option
Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler XT Wheeled Duffel
- Ultra-durable materials
- Multiple handles for versatile carry options
- Lightweight
- May not be the most stylish option
| Specification: | |
| 21.5 x 13.75 x 7.75 inches | Dimensions |
| 5.6 pounds | Weight |
Eagle Creek has long been known for crafting ultra-durable, go-anywhere gear designed for serious adventure-seekers. Packing days’ worth of outdoor gear into a carry-on might seem like an impossible task, but the brand’s aptly named Cargo Hauler XT is built to do just that. Its dimensions are maxed out specifically for international travel with a spacious 36-liter capacity.
It weighs just under 5.6 pounds, but the combination of 1000D Helix Poly and 600D Poly TPU synthetics is far more durable than its weight should allow. Thoughtful touches — an impact-resistant handle system, lockable zippers with a Central Lock Point and Secure-Zip toggles, and multiple handles for easy get-up-and-go — are all welcome additions.
Most versatile travel backpack
Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Excellent ventilation
- Even weight distribution with the LightWire frame
- Doesn’t offer the same protection as hard-shell luggage
| Specification: | |
| 9 x 14 x 22 inches | Dimensions |
| 3.5 pounds | Weight |
The Farpoint 40L Travel Backpack's biggest selling point is its even weight distribution — something Osprey is known for. The LightWire frame suspension keeps the majority of the weight on your hips, not your shoulders, letting you travel for extended periods of time without fatigue. Mesh material on the back panel and straps also improves ventilation and reduces chafing, which is something travelers will be grateful for in hour 12, 13, 14 of their trek.
This bag is designed to meet most airline carry-on requirements, so you can confidently add it to your best travel backpack collection. It comes in several chic colors that fit in just as well on the Himalayan Alps as they do in a busy downtown core. If you're looking for a minimalist aesthetic with plenty of storage options, Osprey has you covered.
What to consider when choosing the best carry-on luggage
Travel gear has changed more in the last 10 years than in the previous century. Suitcases, in particular, are getting lighter, better, stronger, even smarter. You can get a bag that is zippered, rolling, soft-sided, or hard-shelled — the decision to pick just one has never been more difficult.
Travel type: The kind of traveling you do will obviously affect the type of bag you choose. Think about how often you’ll be moving around, what kind of terrain you’ll be traversing and what you’ll be packing. When you’re traveling carry-on-only, having the right bag that can fit everything you need (plus a few souvenirs) is crucial.
Budget: Price, too, is an important factor. If you travel often, you don’t want an affordable bag falling apart on you when you only have 15 minutes to get from Terminal A to Terminal E. That's why we suggest buying the best carry-on luggage you can realistically afford.
How we chose the best carry-on luggage
When selecting the best carry-on luggage, we kept a few key factors in mind to ensure you’re getting the most reliable and functional bag for your travels.
Comfort and ease of handling: For the luggage, we focused on the handle. A comfortable, easy-to-grip handle makes navigating crowded airports and bustling streets much easier. The handle should extend smoothly and lock securely, so you’re not left fumbling when you need to pull your bag along. In general, we made sure the bag itself is lightweight and easy to carry for those moments when rolling isn’t possible, or in the case of the backpacks on the list. When looking for the best backpack, we considered those with comfortable shoulder straps, a waist strap, and some kind of ventilation system (be it an internal, external frame, or a padded strap that allows for airflow). Usual sizes include 40-liter, 50-liter, and, 60-liter capacity backpacks, though you’re probably safest with a 40-liter bag if you want to make sure you can take it into a standard overhead compartment.
Size and fit: Next, we looked at size — specifically, how well the bag fits in standard overhead compartments. Airline regulations vary slightly, but most U.S. carriers, including United, set a maximum size for carry-ons at 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches (including handles and wheels). We ensured the bags we tested met or around these dimensions to guarantee compatibility with the majority of airlines.
Wheel quality: Finally, when it came to the rolling bags we took a close look at the wheels. The last thing you want on a trip is a malfunctioning wheel, so we prioritized bags with sturdy, durable wheels that are built to withstand the wear and tear of constant travel. We also checked for smooth, quiet rotation. Metal fixtures tend to be more durable than plastic, which is why we chose bags with solid metal frames and wheel mechanisms. After all, the last thing you want while exploring a city is a squeaky or broken wheel slowing you down.
With these factors in mind, we handpicked the best carry-on luggage that balances durability, comfort, and practicality, so you can travel hassle-free.
Carry-on bag packing tips
- Roll, don't fold: Rolling clothes saves space and helps prevent wrinkles. Use packing cubes or compression bags to further maximize space and keep things organized.
- Use every corner: Pack heavier items like shoes and toiletries in the bottom of your bag to create a stable base. Fill empty spaces with socks, rolled-up T-shirts, or toiletries bags.
- Pack versatile outfits: Choose clothes that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits, reducing the need for many different pieces. Focus on neutrals and basics that are easy to layer.
- Pack light on toiletries: Use travel-sized bottles or refillable containers for liquids and gels. Remember the 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on bags – containers must be 3.4 ounces or less, fit in a 1-quart clear bag, and you can only bring 1 bag per person.
- Keep essentials accessible: Pack a change of clothes, medications, and any other essentials you might need during the flight in a separate easily accessible pouch or compartment.
Why trust us
At The Manual, we’ve spent years cutting through the noise to bring you expert-backed recommendations on the best travel gear, style essentials, and grooming products. Our team takes a hands-on approach, rigorously testing products to separate the truly exceptional from the rest. We’re committed to ensuring you invest in gear that not only looks great but performs when you need it most.
This guide was crafted by two seasoned travel experts: Mike Richard, a world traveler since 2008, and Kelly Baker, our go-to authority on travel gear. With over six years of experience in journalism and hands-on testing of travel and outdoor products, Kelly has personally used, packed, and traveled with several of these carry-ons, ensuring they’re up to the task in real-world conditions.
If you’re hungry for more expert advice, explore our in-depth guides on travel essentials, like our best waterproof backpacks roundup and the best suitcases for international travel. We’ve got you covered for all your travel needs.
What makes our reviews different? We focus on real-world practicality, durability, and thoughtful design. Unlike sites that simply aggregate reviews, we put products to the test, ensuring they meet the needs of every kind of traveler. We want to help you travel smarter with reliable gear that won’t let you down.
