Best Carry-On Travel Suitcase You Need for your next trip

Traveling can be stressful, but having the right gear can make all the difference. One essential item for any traveler is a carry-on travel suitcase. Not only does it allow you to bring all your necessary items on board, but it also eliminates the risk of lost luggage.

When it comes to choosing the best carry-on travel suitcase, there are a few critical things to consider. Firstly, size matters. Airlines have specific size restrictions for carry-on luggage, so it’s essential to choose a suitcase that fits within those guidelines. Secondly, weight is a factor. Many airlines also have weight restrictions for carry-on luggage, so you want to make sure your suitcase doesn’t add unnecessary weight.

Other important things to consider include durability, maneuverability, and storage options. A well-built suitcase that can withstand the wear and tear of travel is crucial, as is one that is easy to move around, especially in busy airports. And having ample storage options, like pockets and compartments, can make packing and organizing your belongings a breeze.

After researching and testing various carry-on travel suitcases, we’ve identified the top options that meet these critical criteria. With any of these suitcases, you can feel confident that you’ll have a stress-free travel experience.

Best Carry-On Travel Suitcases

When it comes to traveling, packing can be a hassle. But finding the perfect carry-on suitcase doesn’t have to be. We’ve done the research and tested the top carry-on suitcases on the market to bring you the best options available. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-time traveler, these suitcases will make your travels easier and more enjoyable. Check out our list below to find the perfect carry-on suitcase for your next adventure.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

If you’re looking for a lightweight and durable carry-on suitcase, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage might be a good option for you.

Pros

• This carry-on suitcase is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to maneuver through the airport.
• The 4-wheel spinners on this suitcase rotate 360 degrees, allowing for a smooth roll in any direction.
• The expandable zipper on this suitcase gives you maximum packing flexibility.

Cons

• The low profile handles might be uncomfortable for taller individuals.
• The suitcase might tip over when packed unevenly.
• The interior lining is not removable for cleaning.

We recently used this suitcase on a weekend trip and were impressed with how light it was, even when fully packed. The 4-wheel spinners made it easy to navigate through the airport and onto the plane. We also appreciated the expandable zipper, which gave us more space to pack souvenirs on the way back.

However, we did notice that the low profile handles were a bit uncomfortable for our taller travel companion. Additionally, when we packed the suitcase unevenly, it did tip over a few times. Finally, the interior lining is not removable for cleaning, which might be a concern for some travelers.

Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight and durable carry-on suitcase, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage is a good option to consider.

VANKEAN Carry On Underseat

If you’re looking for a lightweight and durable carry-on suitcase, then VANKEAN Carry On Underseat is a perfect fit for you.

Pros

• The suitcase is designed to fit under most airline seats, making it convenient to access your belongings during the flight.
• The suitcase is made of durable polyester with water-resistant and Anti-Scratch fabric, which ensures that the suitcase lasts for a long time.
• The suitcase has an Anti-theft design frequency identification blocking technology to ensure the security of credit/debit card information.

Cons

• The wheels are not multi-directional, which can make it difficult to maneuver the suitcase in tight spaces.
• The suitcase is smaller than other carry-on suitcases, which may not be suitable for longer trips.
• The suitcase doesn’t have a built-in lock, which means you have to purchase one separately.

We recently used the VANKEAN Carry On Underseat for our business trip, and we were impressed with its durability and convenience. The suitcase is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for short trips. The suitcase has a spacious main compartment that can organize your clothes and shoes for your overnight business trip. The padded laptop compartment fits laptops up to 15.6 inches, and the front pockets provide easy access to items. Both side pockets are perfect for the umbrella and water bottle or other necessary items.

The suitcase has a push-button telescoping handle that is designed to fit comfortably in your hand. The Smarts Sleeve on the back allows the bag to be placed over the handle of most upright luggage pieces, making your journey and business traveling more comfortable. The suitcase is available in Light Dusty Pink, which is perfect for women who want to travel in style.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a lightweight and durable carry-on suitcase that fits under most airline seats, then the VANKEAN Carry On Underseat is the perfect fit for you. The suitcase has a spacious main compartment, a padded laptop compartment, and multiple pockets for easy access to items. The suitcase is available in Light Dusty Pink, making it perfect for women who want to travel in style.

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage

If you’re looking for a carry-on suitcase that is both stylish and functional, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage is a great option.

Pros

• The suitcase features a built-in USB port and a dedicated powerbank pocket that meets FAA regulations for carry-on and checked baggage.
• The PrecisionGlide System with eight MagnaTrac self-aligning spinner wheels makes it easy to maneuver the suitcase.
• The drop-in, fold-out suiter keeps clothes wrinkle-free, and the interior tie-down system includes built-in accessory pockets and a TSA-compliant, removable quart-sized wet pocket for toiletries.

Cons

• The suitcase is on the heavier side, weighing in at 7.72 pounds.
• The vintage grey color may not be to everyone’s liking.
• The suitcase is on the pricier side compared to other carry-on options.

We recently took the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage on a short trip and were impressed by its features. The built-in USB port and dedicated powerbank pocket were especially convenient for charging our devices on the go. The PrecisionGlide System with eight MagnaTrac self-aligning spinner wheels made it easy to navigate through the airport, and the drop-in, fold-out suiter kept our clothes looking neat and wrinkle-free.

One downside to the suitcase is that it is on the heavier side, so it may not be the best option for those looking to pack light. Additionally, the vintage grey color may not be to everyone’s liking, but we appreciated the sophisticated look it added to our travel ensemble.

Overall, if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality carry-on suitcase, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage is a great choice.

Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Suitcase

We highly recommend the Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Suitcase for anyone looking for a stylish and durable carry-on suitcase that offers a range of modern features.

Pros

• The suitcase is sizer bin tested to fit in the overhead bins of most major domestic airlines while allowing for more packing capacity. The PrecisionGlide System delivers precise control and effortless roll with a Contour Grip, PowerScope Lite Handle and MagnaTrac self-aligning magnetic Spinner Wheels.
• The carry-on suitcase has external USB A & C ports with fast-charge capabilities that let you power your electronics on the go, and the external battery pocket is hidden inside the expansion feature for easy access and FAA compliance. The built-in lock allows TSA authorities to unlock and lock safely and securely when needed.
• The carry-on bag has an ultra-strong 100% polycarbonate hard shell with aluminum corner guards that protect contents and has a stylish, textured finish that helps reduce the visibility of scuffs or scratching. The genuine leather trim detail on the front of the hard-sided suitcase adds sophisticated style.

Cons

• The suitcase is a bit on the heavy side, weighing 8.1 lbs.
• The built-in lock code is set to 0-0-0 by default, which may not be secure enough for some users.
• The suitcase is a bit pricey compared to other carry-on options on the market.

Overall, we found the Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Suitcase to be a great investment for frequent travelers who need a durable and stylish carry-on suitcase with modern features. The clamshell design with two zippered divider panels keeps contents organized, separated, and secured in place, while the interior water-resistant pocket provides packing versatility for damp items or toiletries. The suitcase is backed by a Limited Lifetime Coverage plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airlines or other common carriers for the first five years of the lifetime warranty.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Upright 2 Wheel Luggage

We highly recommend the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Upright 2 Wheel Luggage as the best carry-on travel suitcase because of its durability, lightweight design, and convenient packing features.

Pros

• The Maxlite 5 is a half pound lighter than its predecessor, the Maxlite 4, making it one of the lightest carry-on suitcases on the market.
• The high-performance ball bearing wheels and adjustable PowerScope Lite handle make for a smooth, easy roll, and reduce wobble during transportation.
• The suitcase features a tapered shape to prevent tipping, and has multiple exterior and interior pockets for organized packing.

Cons

• The suitcase may not meet airline carry-on restrictions when fully expanded.
• The handle may not be as sturdy as other models on the market.
• The suitcase’s polyester fabric may not be as durable as other materials.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Upright 2 Wheel Luggage is an excellent choice for frequent travelers who need a reliable, lightweight carry-on suitcase. The suitcase’s durable polyester fabric is coated with a stain-resistant, water-repellant duraguard coating that will keep it looking new for years to come. The suitcase also features a high-tensile-strength zipper and ergonomic, high-tensile-strength zipper pulls that provide lasting durability.

The Maxlite 5 has a capacity of 52 liters, and can expand up to 2 inches to maximize packing capacity. The suitcase has a tapered shape to prevent tipping, and features low-profile top, side, and bottom carry handles, two exterior compartments, a full-length interior lid pocket, a side accessory pocket, and adjustable hold-down straps for packing convenience and flexibility.

In addition to its durable design, the Maxlite 5 is backed by Travelpro’s Limited Lifetime Coverage and a new and expanded “Trusted Companion Promise”, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airlines or other common carriers for one year. If you’re in the market for a reliable, lightweight carry-on suitcase, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Upright 2 Wheel Luggage is an excellent choice.

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage

We highly recommend the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage as it is lightweight, durable, and stylish.

Pros

• The luggage is extremely lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
• The 100% polycarbonate construction with sharp molded details makes it durable and resistant to dents and dings.
• The elegant brushed pattern design hides any potential scratches or scuffs from your journeys.

Cons

• The luggage may not fit in some international airlines’ size restrictions.
• The side-mounted TSA locks may not be as secure as other locking mechanisms.
• The luggage may not have enough pockets for those who require more organization.

We recently used the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage on a domestic trip and found it to be very convenient to carry around. The four, multi-directional spinner wheels made it easy to maneuver through crowded airports and the lightweight locking telescopic handle made it easy to pull. The fully-lined interior with cross-straps, a privacy curtain with its own zippered organizational pockets, and a full-zip interior divider with organization pockets made packing and unpacking a breeze.

The unified brushed pattern custom design on the front and back shells of the luggage is not only stylish but also hides any potential scratches or scuffs from your journey. The luggage also comes with a 10-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship, giving us peace of mind.

Overall, we highly recommend the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage for those looking for a durable, lightweight, and stylish carry-on travel suitcase.

Coolife Luggage Expandable(only 28″) Suitcase PC+ABS Spinner 20in 24in 28in Carry on

We highly recommend the Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase for anyone in search of a durable and stylish carry-on suitcase.

Pros

• The ABS+PC hard plastic shell makes this suitcase incredibly strong and sturdy, perfect for rough handling.
• The included TSA lock ensures the safety and security of your valuables.
• The adjustable 3-level 100% pure aluminum telescoping handle and quiet airplane spinner wheels make maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze.

Cons

• The small suitcase cannot be used as a carry-on and must be stored inside the larger suitcase.
• The white grid design may show signs of wear and tear more easily than solid color options.
• The suitcase is slightly heavier than some other carry-on options at 7.9 pounds.

We recently took the Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase on a weekend trip and were thoroughly impressed with its performance. The hard plastic shell held up well to airport handling and the spinner wheels made it easy to navigate through crowded spaces. The interior organizational pockets made packing a breeze and kept our belongings secure during travel.

One downside to note is that the small suitcase cannot be used as a carry-on and must be stored inside the larger suitcase. Additionally, the white grid design may show signs of wear and tear more easily than solid color options. However, the included TSA lock provided peace of mind and the adjustable telescoping handle was sturdier than most on the market.

Overall, we highly recommend the Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase for its durability, style, and functionality.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best carry-on travel suitcase, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get a product that meets your needs. We have compiled a list of features that you should look for when shopping for a travel suitcase.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of the suitcase are crucial factors to consider when looking for a carry-on. Most airlines have specific size and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage, so it is important to choose a suitcase that meets these requirements. A suitcase that is too big or heavy may result in additional fees or not being able to bring it on board.

Material

The material of the suitcase is also an important factor to consider. The most common materials used for carry-on suitcases are hard-sided and soft-sided. Hard-sided suitcases are typically more durable and provide better protection for your belongings, while soft-sided suitcases are more flexible and easier to pack.

Wheels

Wheels are another feature to consider when choosing a travel suitcase. Four-wheel suitcases, also known as spinner suitcases, are easier to maneuver and provide better stability when standing upright. Two-wheel suitcases, also known as roller suitcases, are more durable and can handle rough terrain better.

Compartments and Pockets

Compartments and pockets are important features to consider when choosing a carry-on suitcase. Look for a suitcase that has multiple compartments and pockets to help you organize your belongings and make packing easier.

Locks and Zippers

Locks and zippers are also important features to consider when choosing a travel suitcase. Look for a suitcase that has secure locks and durable zippers to ensure the safety of your belongings.

Overall, when choosing a carry-on travel suitcase, it is important to consider your specific needs and preferences. By considering the factors listed above, you can ensure that you choose a suitcase that is durable, functional, and meets your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best and lightest carry-on luggage?

The best and lightest carry-on luggage is typically made from materials such as polycarbonate or aluminum. These materials are lightweight and durable, making them perfect for travel.

What type of luggage is best for carry-on?

The best type of luggage for carry-on is a hard-shell suitcase. Hard-shell suitcases are more durable and offer better protection for your belongings. They also tend to be more lightweight than soft-shell suitcases.

What is the largest approved carry-on luggage?

The largest approved carry-on luggage varies by airline, but most airlines allow a carry-on suitcase that is around 22 inches tall, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches deep. It’s always best to check with your airline before purchasing a carry-on suitcase to ensure it meets their specific requirements.

Is hard or soft luggage better for carry-on?

Hard luggage is typically better for carry-on because it offers better protection for your belongings. Soft luggage is more flexible and can be easier to pack, but it doesn’t offer the same level of protection as hard luggage.

What are the most durable materials for carry-on luggage?

The most durable materials for carry-on luggage are polycarbonate, aluminum, and ABS. These materials are lightweight, scratch-resistant, and can withstand the wear and tear of travel.

What are the best affordable carry-on luggage options?

Some of the best affordable carry-on luggage options include brands like Samsonite, American Tourister, and AmazonBasics. These brands offer high-quality luggage at an affordable price point.