Best Carry-On Luggage: Top Picks for Every Traveler in 2025

Remember that moment at the airport, your luggage in hand, excitement in your heart? The right carry-on luggage can change your travel experience. It makes moving through crowded airports easier and adds a sense of calm to the chaos.

In 2025, there’s a wide range of carry-on luggage to choose from. You can find lightweight options that are easy to carry, or durable luggage that lasts through many trips. This year, over 450 carry-on bags were tested, including suitcases, duffels, and backpacks. Now, finding the perfect luggage for your style and needs is easier than ever¹.

Whether you need something small for a weekend trip or a bigger bag for a longer journey, we’ve got you covered. Our guide will show you the best stylish carry-on suitcases for every traveler.

Key Takeaways

• Travelers can select from a wide range of carry-on luggage styles, including softside and hardside options.
• Many models are designed specifically with functionality and style in mind.
• Weight considerations are critical, as options range from lightweight choices as low as 5.4 pounds.
• Capacity varies greatly, giving you flexibility from 35 to 61 liters based on your individual packing needs.
• Pricing ranges to fit various budgets, starting from as low as $69 up to premium options at $975.

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Introduction to Carry-On Luggage Trends in 2025

The carry-on luggage market is changing fast, with new ideas making travel gear better for 2025. The FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group (BIWG) has over 100 members. They include airlines, airports, and partners working together to improve luggage². This teamwork shows how much people want luggage that’s both useful and stylish.

Lightweight luggage is becoming popular. Brands like Away and Rimowa are leading the way. For example, Away’s Carry-On is 22 x 14 x 9 inches and only weighs 7.1 pounds³.

Now, people care more about the environment. Groups like the Greenbaggage Alliance want to cut carbon emissions to zero by 2050. Travelers are looking for luggage made from eco-friendly materials that still meets TSA rules². New bag tracking tech is also making travel better. Airports like Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver are testing new baggage imaging systems².

Automation is also a big focus. For example, Schiphol airport has invested in Cobot Lift, a robotics company. This shows how airports are using tech to improve baggage handling². As we move forward, design, materials, and what travelers need will shape the luggage of 2025.

What to Look for When Choosing Carry-On Luggage

Choosing the right carry-on luggage is important for a good travel experience. Look for durability, size and weight specifications, and design features. This will help you pick the best one.

Durability and Material Options

Durability is key when picking carry-on luggage. Hardside materials like polycarbonate and ABS are tough. They’re great for travelers who are always on the move. On the other hand, softside luggage is flexible and lighter.

Brands like Samsonite and Travelpro are known for durable luggage. They make luggage that can handle travel well⁴. Softside luggage is lighter, which is good for airlines with strict weight rules⁴.

Size and Weight Considerations

Knowing the size and weight of your luggage is important. Most airlines want your carry-on to be around 21 – 22 inches tall and 13-15 inches wide. But, low-cost carriers might have stricter rules, like 17 inches⁴.

For short trips, consider lightweight options like travel backpacks. Wheeled duffle bags are great for quick getaways⁴. Always check your luggage’s size to avoid extra fees.

Design Features and Organization

Design features are crucial for usability. Look for luggage with many compartments. This helps you stay organized and pack better. Modern luggage often has laptop sleeves, extra pockets, and straps to keep clothes neat, like in the Travelpro Platinum Elite series⁵.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite series has special wheels that make moving around easy⁵. This adds to your travel convenience.

Best Carry-On Luggage for Frequent Flyers

Frequent travelers need luggage that’s both stylish and durable. The right carry-on should handle travel well and make your journey better with its features. Here, we look at some top picks that are both good-looking and practical.

High-Quality and Stylish Options

The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Expandable Spinner is a top choice for frequent flyers. It scores 88 overall, with great ratings for its capacity, ease of transport, construction, and design⁶. It’s big enough for your stuff, with a main area of 40.0 L, and is built to last⁶.

The Samsonite Freeform Spinner is another favorite, priced at $140. It’s big enough for your needs, with a capacity of 41.2 L, and is light at 6.6 lb⁶. It’s a great mix of size and price.

The Away Carry-On is stylish and costs $275. It’s light at 7.5 lbs and has a capacity of 39.8 liters⁷. For those on a budget, the Amazon Basics Hardside Carry-on Spinner is a smart pick at $63. It’s light at 7.3 lbs and has 37 liters of space⁷.

These options show there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking to spend a lot or a little⁷.

Capacity for Long Trips

For longer trips, the Monos Expandable Carry-On is perfect with its 53 L capacity. It’s 22″ × 14″ × 11″ and has extra room when you need it⁸. The Béis The Carry-On Roller offers 49–61 L of space, weighing 8.36 lbs, and is 23″ x 16″ x 10″⁸.

The Away Bigger Carry-On is great for those who like simple designs but still need lots of room. It has a capacity of 47.9 L⁷. A big carry-on keeps you organized and within airline limits.

With these top picks, frequent travelers can find the perfect luggage. It meets their style and capacity needs for any trip⁶⁸⁷.

Top Rated Carry-On Bags for Short Trips

When you’re off on a weekend or a quick business trip, packing smart is key. The right carry-on bag can be a game-changer. Look for bags that are compact, easy to use, and stylish.

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The Away The Carry-On is a great pick, priced at $275. It’s big inside but light, weighing 7 lbs., 8 oz. It’s perfect for short trips, but it doesn’t have any outside pockets⁹. For more features, the TravelPro Platinum Elite 21 is a top choice, priced at $370. It’s heavy but has lots of room and 4 outside pockets, making it great for packing a lot⁹.

If you’re on a tight budget, the Rockland Melbourne 20 is a good option, priced at $120. It’s light and has enough room for your essentials, despite its smaller size⁹. The SwissGear 6283 21” is also a budget-friendly choice, priced at $120. It’s a bit heavier but expands to hold more, making it a solid pick⁹.

Carry-on bags usually range in size from 15.25 inches by 8.75 inches by 14.75 inches to 22.8 inches by 15.7 inches by 9.8 inches. This range helps travelers find the perfect size for their needs¹⁰. Prices vary a lot, from $62.99 to $1,430, so there’s something for every budget¹⁰.

In short, the right carry-on bag makes packing and traveling easier, especially for short trips. The Samsonite Centric Carry-On Spinner, priced at $200, is a great choice. It’s light and has plenty of room, making it a top pick for weekend trips⁹. Whether you’re looking for something affordable or high-end, there’s a perfect carry-on out there for you.

Lightweight Cabin Luggage Choices for Easy Travel

Choosing the right lightweight cabin luggage can make your travels better. More people want to carry less, so light luggage is key. Top brands offer luggage that’s both strong and easy to use.

Best Brands for Lightweight Options

Many trusted brands offer great lightweight luggage. Here are some top picks known for quality:

• Samsonite – Known for innovative designs and durable materials.
• Travelpro – Popular among frequent flyers for its reliability.
• Amazon Basics – Offers affordable options without compromising quality.
• Delsey – Combines stylish designs with lightweight functionality.
• Rimowa – Known for its iconic design and durable build.

Reviews of Popular Lightweight Models

Many models show the best in lightweight luggage. Users love how easy they are to travel with. Here are some top models and their specs:

Many say Samsonite and Travelpro luggage is very durable and easy to use¹¹¹². You can find options like the Quince Carry-On at 6.2 lbs or Amazon Basics for about $63. There’s something for every budget and preference⁷.

Durable Travel Luggage for Adventurous Journeys

For those who love adventure, durable travel luggage is a must. It keeps your stuff safe in tough places like camping and trekking. The right bags make travel better by being strong, having lots of room, and being easy to use.

Recently, 35 bags were tested for three years to find the best for adventures¹³. The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55L, at $169, was the top pick for its toughness and design. The Evoc World Traveller 125, at $238, was the best roller bag for its durability and style¹³.

The DB Ramverk Pro Front Access Carry-On, at $799, is the best carry-on roller bag. It’s made to handle rough travel¹³. For bigger trips, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 29″, at $424, is great. It has lots of room and is light¹⁴. The Samsonite Freeform Large Spinner, at $191, is also good for big trips¹⁴.

Choosing the right luggage is crucial for safe travel. Look for durability and useful features to fully enjoy your adventures.

Travel Friendly Carry-On Bags for Family Travelers

Finding the right carry-on can make family travel better. Family-friendly carry-on bags have special features for parents and kids. Look for bags with extra spots for snacks and toys, and ones that are tough for travel.

It’s also important for bags to be easy to move around in crowded airports. Wheels and handles help a lot with this.

Features Ideal for Family Travel

When picking out travel bags for families, think about these features:

• Extra Pockets: These help keep snacks, toys, and other things handy.
• Easy Maneuverability: Bags that are light and roll smoothly are great for busy airports.
• Durable Materials: Bags made from good materials can handle the roughness of family trips.
• Fun Designs: Bags with fun themes and colors make packing fun for kids.

Recommendations for Kids’ Carry-Ons

Here are some top picks for kids’ luggage that are both fun and practical:

• Trunki Ride-On Suitcase: This carry-on is also a fun ride-on toy for kids aged 3 and up.
• Skip Hop Zoo Little Kids Luggage: Its cute animal designs make it a great choice for younger kids.
• Heys America Marvel Licensed Children’s Luggage: Kids can carry their favorite superheroes in style.
• Wildkin Original Sleeping Bag: It’s great for sleepovers or travel, meeting different needs.

With the right carry-on bags, family travel can be fun and easy. It sets the stage for great adventures together¹⁵¹⁶¹⁷.

Affordable Carry-On Luggage: Value Picks

Travelers looking for affordable carry-on luggage have many options. Brands offer quality luggage at lower prices. This makes finding the right carry-on easier and more enjoyable.

Best Budget-Friendly Brands

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 and the Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner are top picks. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 costs $170 and weighs just 5.4 pounds. It has a zippered organizer lid, compression straps, and two external pockets for easy access¹²¹⁸.

The Amazon Basics model is a great value at $83. It has hard sides for extra protection and two pockets for small items¹²¹⁸,).

Eco-Friendly Affordable Options

For those who care about the environment, Patagonia and Peak Design are excellent choices. The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag is $159 and made from recycled materials. The Peak Design Travel Duffel is $140, focusing on sustainable design and durability¹⁸.

These options show that you can have style and sustainability without breaking the bank. They prove that eco-friendly and affordable can go hand in hand¹⁸.

Best Carry-On Luggage for International Travel

Choosing the right luggage for international travel is key. You need suitcases that fit airline rules and meet global traveler needs. Let’s dive into some top picks.

TSA Approved Carry-On Options

Understanding TSA carry-on size limits is vital. The standard size is usually 22 x 15 x 10 inches. But, airline sizes can differ. For example, Qatar Airlines has a max size of 20 x 15 x 10 inches¹⁹.

The Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22-Inch Carry-On Spinner is a great choice. It’s built to last and comes with a lifetime guarantee¹⁹. Brands like Away and Samsonite also offer durable, TSA-compliant luggage¹⁹.

Smart Features for Global Travelers

Smart luggage features are now a must for travelers. Luggage with USB ports lets you charge devices on the move. Tracking tech adds peace of mind.

Travelpro luggage stands out for its ease of use and smart features. Tests show that these features improve travel, making it more efficient and enjoyable²⁰.

Stylish Carry-On Suitcases That Stand Out

Travel has become a way to express style, with stylish carry-on suitcases being all the rage. Brands like Rimowa and Calpak offer fashion-forward luggage options that look great and work well. The Zero Halliburton Edge Lightweight Brilliant International Carry-On Case, priced at $475, is a prime example of luxury and practicality combined²¹.

Today’s travelers want luggage that looks good. Stylish carry-on suitcases come in various sizes to meet different needs. For example, the Rains Large Travel Bag fits essentials nicely while looking chic²¹. These designer carry-ons offer both elegance and usefulness, letting travelers show off their style.

Lightweight luggage is now a favorite, with options ranging from 0.5kg to 3.4kg. This makes them easy to carry without losing style²². Features like TSA-approved locks and spinner wheels make travel smoother, keeping the luggage looking good. Plus, many brands focus on sustainability, making these pieces even more appealing.

If you’re ready to kickstart your travel journey with ease and exclusive savings, book your first trip now! Visit Trip.com using this special promotion link and register to reserve tickets, accommodation, and more. Don’t miss out on these incredible travel deals tailored for first-time travelers—start planning today!

Choosing stylish carry-on suitcases lets travelers show off their personality while following travel rules. With many options available, from hardshell to soft shell, everyone can find the perfect luggage for their journey²¹²².

Conclusion

Choosing the best carry-on luggage is key for a smooth trip. Nearly 500 pieces were tested, focusing on durability, organization, and size. This guide helps you pick the right luggage for your travel style.

There are many options, like the Samsonite Freeform Spinner for those who want something light. Or the Away Carry-on Flex for those who need more space. These choices cater to different needs and preferences.

For families or adventurers, there are great options like the Travelpro Platinum Elite luggage set. Or the Béis Large Check-in Roller. Think about what you need for your next trip in 2025.

Packing Tips for International Travel: How to Maximize . Knowing what you need helps you pick the perfect carry-on. It should fit your size needs and make traveling easier. The right luggage can greatly improve your trip. So, consider these tips to find the best carry-on for you.

FAQ

What is the best carry-on luggage for frequent travelers?

For frequent travelers, Monos, Travelpro, and Away are top choices. They offer quality and style. Their luggage is durable and practical.

How do I choose the right size carry-on luggage?

Check the airline’s cabin size, usually around 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Choose lightweight luggage to stay within limits easily.

What features should I look for in durable travel luggage?

Look for luggage made from high-quality materials. Polycarbonate for hardside and ballistic nylon for softside are good. Reinforced corners and weather-resistant zippers also matter.

Are there affordable carry-on luggage options that are still high quality?

Yes, Samsonite and American Tourister offer affordable, quality luggage. They don’t break the bank.

What makes the best carry-on luggage for international travel?

The best luggage for international travel is TSA approved and fits size regulations. It should also have smart features like USB ports and tracking.

What lightweight cabin luggage options are available?

Travelpro and Delsey make lightweight luggage. They’re durable and easy to carry, making travel simpler.

What features are beneficial for family travel carry-ons?

Family luggage needs extra pockets for snacks and toys. It should be easy to carry and fun for kids. This makes travel smoother.

Can you recommend any stylish carry-on suitcases?

Calpak and Rimowa offer stylish luggage. They combine modern designs with practical features for a fashionable travel experience.

How do I ensure my carry-on luggage is TSA compliant?

Make sure your luggage fits airline size limits. It should also have easy access for electronics during security checks.

What are the latest trends in carry-on luggage for 2025?

2025’s trends include lightweight designs and eco-friendly materials. Smart features and stylish looks are also in. These meet today’s traveler needs.