Are you tired of carrying heavy suitcases and dealing with airport hassles? Our guide is here to help with the top 10 best carry-on luggage for 2022. Our team, who take over 50 flights a year, has tested many bags to find the best ones.
This guide includes durable, lightweight, stylish, and organized options. You’ll find award-winning bags with spinner wheels, built-in chargers, and multiple compartments. These features make traveling easier and keep you organized.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the top 10 best carry-on luggage options for 2022 based on expert testing and recommendations.
- Find durable and lightweight carry-on bags that meet airline size restrictions.
- Explore stylish and organizational carry-on luggage with features like spinner wheels and built-in chargers.
- Learn about award-winning and editor-approved carry-on bags that will elevate your travel experience.
- Get insights into the key factors our experts considered in evaluating the best carry-on luggage options.
What Makes a Great Carry-On Bag
When picking the best carry-on luggage, think about its durability and how easy it is to move around. Bags made from strong materials like nylon and polycarbonate are good choices. They can handle scratches and scuffs well. Also, look for smooth-rolling wheels and comfy handles for easy movement in crowded places.
Durability and Maneuverability
The outside of the luggage should be tough to handle frequent travel. Check for reinforced corners, strong zippers, and sturdy handles. These features help the bag last longer. Wheels that roll smoothly and a balanced design make moving around easy, even in busy places.
Capacity and Organization
A great carry-on also needs to have enough room for your stuff. It should be big enough for a 5-day trip. Look for bags with features like compression straps, many compartments, and removable organizers. These help keep your things tidy and easy to find.
Think about durability, ease of movement, size, and organization when choosing a carry-on. These factors will help you pick a bag that fits your travel needs and makes your trip better.
Award-Winning Carry-On Luggage
Choosing the best carry-on luggage is crucial. Some models have won awards and praise from experts. Let’s explore three top carry-on bags loved by travelers and critics.
Wrangler 20-Inch Rolling Carry-On
The Wrangler 20-Inch Rolling Carry-On is a top pick for those on a budget. It’s a hardshell spinner with 360-degree movement, strong build, and lots of room for under $50. People love its light weight and smooth zipper.
Halfday The Garment Duffel
Halfday’s Garment Duffel is the best in innovation. It’s perfect for work or weekend getaways. It has hooks for hanging clothes and special spots for shoes, keeping things neat and wrinkle-free.
Vera Bradley Weekender Travel Bag
The Vera Bradley Weekender Travel Bag is the top carry-on overall. It’s known for its durability, organization, and fitting under seats. It has many pockets and can be washed in a machine, making it a favorite among editors.
These award-winning carry-ons offer great features for different needs. Whether you want something affordable, innovative, or reliable, these bags will make your trips better.
Expert-Recommended Carry-On Bags
When picking the right carry-on bag, expert travelers like Summer Hull have great advice. Hull, a travel journalist, has looked at many luggage options. She suggests the Dagne Dover Large Dakota Neoprene Backpack and the Away The Bigger Carry-On as top choices.
Dagne Dover Large Dakota Neoprene Backpack
Travel expert Summer Hull recommends the Dagne Dover Large Dakota Neoprene Backpack as a practical and stylish travel companion. It’s water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve, and a top phone pocket. This makes it easy to keep things organized. It’s also light at 2.6 lbs and has a 20L capacity, making it great for any trip.
Away The Bigger Carry-On
For those who need lots of space, Hull’s top pick is the Away The Bigger Carry-On. It’s water-resistant and has a special system to pack more stuff without going over size limits. It also has a laundry bag and pockets for accessories. It’s 8.4 lbs and holds 47.9L, perfect for those who want a big yet efficient carry-on.
Both bags get high marks from Hull and other experts for being functional, stylish, and tough. Whether you want a handy backpack or a big spinner, these bags are great for today’s travelers.
Editor’s Favorite Carry-On Luggage
Our editors have looked at many carry-on luggage options. Three bags stand out for their quality, function, and durability.
Terra Thread Earth Backpack
Commerce editor Julie Ricevuto loves the heavy-duty, functional design of the Terra Thread Earth Backpack. It’s affordable but tough for trips at home and abroad. The bag is comfy to carry thanks to padded straps and an adjustable sternum strap. It also has a big main area and many pockets for staying organized.
Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe
Senior partnerships editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil praises the Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe duffel for its surprising spaciousness, quality pockets, and comfortable shoulder straps. She’s used it for years and it still looks great. It’s perfect for both short and long trips.
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
Commerce editor & producer Julie Ricevuto is smitten with her Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack, which she has taken on lengthy trips around the world. She likes its big size, easy access, and supportive hip belt. These features are great for her busy travel life. The Allpa is also strong and well-designed for many travel needs.
Monos Carry-On Pro
Commerce editor Fran Sales was impressed by the Monos Carry-On Pro. It has a big interior, useful pockets, and wheels that roll smoothly. This lets her pack for several days without leaving out her laptop.
This carry-on is made from strong, aerospace-grade polycarbonate. It measures 22 x 14 x 9 inches and weighs 7.8 pounds. It’s big enough for long trips but still easy to carry. The bag has a special spot for laptops up to 15 inches.
The Monos Carry-On Pro is great for staying organized on the go. Inside, you’ll find pockets and compartments for all your things. The wheels and handle make moving through airports easy.
Compared to other bags, the Monos Carry-On Pro is a good mix of size, weight, and features. It might be a bit bigger than some airline rules allow, but it’s worth it for its quality and design.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 22 x 14 x 9 inches |
| Weight | 7.8 pounds |
| Capacity | 36 liters |
| Laptop Compartment | Up to 15 inches |
| Material | Aerospace-grade polycarbonate |
| Wheels | Smooth-gliding |
| Handle | Adjustable telescopic |
The Monos Carry-On Pro is perfect for any trip, big or small. It’s designed for easy travel with lots of space and strong build. It’s a top pick for anyone who wants a quality carry-on.
Briggs & Riley Essential Carry-On
Leah Ginsberg, a frequent traveler and managing editor at NBC Select, loves the Briggs & Riley Essential Carry-On. It’s known for its quality, durable nylon, and features perfect for both work and fun trips. Briggs & Riley stands behind its luggage with a lifetime guarantee, giving travelers confidence in their choice.
Leah tested over 170 luggage types, but the Briggs & Riley Essential Carry-On was a top pick. It’s great because it can expand by 22%, giving you more space for your stuff. This makes it perfect for those who always seem to have more to pack.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 37 – 48 liters |
| Exterior Dimensions | 22 x 14 x 9-11.5 inches |
| Interior Dimensions | 20 x 14 x 7.875 inches |
| Weight | 10.0 lbs |
| Price | $699.00 |
The Briggs & Riley Essential Carry-On has many features that make it great for travelers. It has a special expansion system for more space, an adjustable handle for comfort, and tough materials for durability. Plus, it comes with a lifetime guarantee for all parts.
This carry-on is also easy to use, thanks to self-repairing zippers, lockable pulls, and shock-absorbing wheels. The built-in garment folder is great for keeping clothes smooth after travel.
Leah Ginsberg highly recommends the Briggs & Riley Essential Carry-On for its quality, design, and lifetime guarantee. It’s perfect for any trip, whether for work or fun. This bag will be your go-to for all your travels.
Lightweight Carry-On Options
Travelers wanting to carry less can look at the Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner. It’s under 7 pounds and still has lots of room and moves easily. Other great picks include the Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Carry-On at 8.1 pounds and the AmazonBasics 21-inch spinner at just 6.3 pounds.
The Samsonite Omni PC Carry-On is a top pick for soft-sided bags, weighing 7.05 pounds. The Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Luggage is also light at 8.3 pounds. For the lightest option, the Modoker Convertible Garment Bag with Shoulder Strap is only 2.5 pounds.
| Carry-On Bag | Price | Weight | Capacity | Dimensions | Wheels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner | $600 | 6.5 lbs | N/A | 21.25 x 15.25 x 10 in | 4 |
| Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Carry-On | N/A | 8.1 lbs | N/A | 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 in | 8 |
| AmazonBasics 21-inch spinner | N/A | 6.3 lbs | N/A | 22 x 14.9 x 10 in | 4 |
| Samsonite Omni PC Carry-On | N/A | 7.05 lbs | N/A | 22 x 15 x 9.75 in | 4 |
| Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Luggage | N/A | 8.3 lbs | N/A | 23.5 x 14.5 x 9 in | 8 |
| Modoker Convertible Garment Bag with Shoulder Strap | $43.99 | 2.5 lbs | N/A | N/A | N/A |
For a mix of light weight and big capacity, check out the Away The Carry-On (7.5 pounds, 47.9 liters) and the July Carry On (7.4 pounds, 42 liters). These bags are great for travelers who want to carry less without losing out on space.
Looking for a hardside or soft-sided carry-on? There are many light options out there for today’s travelers. Think about what you need in terms of weight, space, and design to find the perfect carry-on for your trips.
Stylish and Trendy Carry-On Bags
Choosing the right carry-on luggage means finding a mix of style and function. The Béis The Carry-On Roller is a great example of this. It looks chic and works well for travel.
This bag has a sleek design that matches any outfit. It also has smooth wheels and a comfy handle for easy airport travel. It’s both stylish and practical, perfect for today’s traveler.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 22 x 14 x 9 inches |
| Weight | 8.2 lbs |
| Capacity | 40L |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime |
| Price | $295 |
The Béis The Carry-On Roller shows how Béis combines style with practicality. It’s great for weekend trips or longer journeys. This bag makes traveling more stylish and easy.
“The Béis The Carry-On Roller is the perfect blend of style and functionality, making it a must-have for any fashion-forward traveler.”
Durable Carry-On Suitcases
Hardside carry-on suitcases are great for travel. They use strong materials like polycarbonate and ABS plastic. These materials protect against scuffs, scratches, and impacts better than softside bags. They keep your stuff safe, even when your luggage is tossed around.
Polycarbonate and ABS plastic are top choices for making hardside carry-ons. Polycarbonate is light but very strong. It can handle a lot of impact without breaking. ABS plastic is great for resisting dents and scratches, perfect for those who travel a lot.
When picking a hardside carry-on, check the shell’s thickness and the quality of the zippers, wheels, and handles. Thicker, high-quality materials mean better protection and longer use. Also, look for suitcases with extra protection on corners and edges to avoid damage.
- Polycarbonate and ABS plastic are two top materials for hardside carry-ons.
- Polycarbonate is light but very strong against impacts. ABS plastic is great for avoiding dents and scratches.
- When choosing a hardside carry-on, look at the shell’s thickness, zipper, wheel, and handle quality. Also, check for extra protection on corners and edges.
Choosing a hardside carry-on made of strong materials means your things will be safe on your trips. This makes your journey smooth and worry-free.
Best Carry On Luggage 2022
Our research and testing found the top carry-on luggage for 2022. These bags balance size, weight, durability, organization, and style for the best travel experience. From affordable to premium options, here are the top picks for the year ahead.
Airline Size Restrictions
Domestic airlines limit carry-on bags to 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high. Some, like American Airlines, let bags be an inch taller. International airlines have different sizes, like Air Canada’s 21.5″ x 15.5″ x 9″ and Qatar Airways’ 20″ x 15″ x 10″.
Lightweight Options
The lightest suitcase weighs just 3.9 lbs, making it easy to carry. The July Carry-On Light is the lightest with double wheels, under four pounds empty.
Pricing Range
Our recommended luggage ranges from $70 for Amazon Basics to over $1,000 for Tumi Alpha Continental. Other prices include $275 for Away, $699 for Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential, and $440 for Samsara Grand Carry-On.
Top Carry-On Picks
- Away The Carry-On – Priced at $315, it weighs 7.5 lbs, measures 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″, and has a 39.8-liter capacity.
- Monos Carry-On Pro – Costs $208 after a 29% discount, with spinner wheels and a sleek design.
- Roam Carry-On Front Pocket – Priced at $625, it offers lots of organization with front pockets.
- Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Luggage 24-Inch – Now $157, this durable carry-on is a budget-friendly choice.
- Paravel The Aviator – Costs $395 and has a classic look.
- Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Rolling Suitcase – On sale for $123, it’s a great value for its light weight.
- Rimowa Original Cabin Rolling Suitcase – At $1,430, this premium suitcase has a spinner-wheel braking system.
Looking for a budget-friendly, lightweight, or high-end carry-on? This roundup has options for all travel needs and budgets. Consider size, weight, durability, organization, and style to find the perfect carry-on for 2022.
Carry-On Luggage with Spinner Wheels
When you’re moving through crowded airports and busy streets, spinner carry-on bags with four multi-directional wheels make a big difference. They move easily, making your trip smoother and more convenient.
The standard size for carry-ons in the U.S. is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including wheels and handles. Airlines may have their own rules. Brands like Tumi, Rimowa, Briggs & Riley, and Samsonite offer top-notch carry-ons that fit the rules and are TSA-approved.
The Samsonite Voltage DLX Global Spinner is a popular choice, weighing about 6.06 pounds and holding 49-61 liters. Another great pick is the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry-On Spinner, which is lighter at 5.4 pounds and holds 46 liters. For more space, the Away Bigger Carry-On Flex is a bit heavier at 8.55 pounds but can hold 47.9 liters.
| Luggage Model | Weight (lbs) | Capacity (liters) |
|---|---|---|
| Samsonite Voltage DLX Global Spinner | 6.06 | 49-61 |
| Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry-On Spinner | 5.4 | 46 |
| Away Bigger Carry-On Flex | 8.55 | 47.9 |
| Bagsmart 20-Inch Carry-On | 6.39 | 35 |
| Quince Carry-On Hard Shell 20-Inch Suitcase | 6.2 | 40 |
| Béis The Carry-On Roller | 8.36 | 49-61 |
| Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin | 4.9 | 38.2 |
The Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin is a top choice for those who want something light and strong, weighing just 4.9 pounds and holding 38.2 liters. For a smaller, kid-friendly option, the Trunki Ride-On Kids Suitcase is perfect for kids 3 to 6, with an 18-liter capacity.
Spinner carry-on bags with four multi-directional wheels make moving through crowded places easy. They offer better control than traditional two-wheeled suitcases. With so many great options from top brands, travelers can easily find the perfect carry-on for their needs, making their journey smooth and stress-free.
Carry-On Bags with Built-In Chargers
In today’s world, charging your devices on the go is key for travelers. Luckily, some carry-on bags have built-in USB ports and power banks. This means you can charge your devices without extra cords or adapters.
Over 450 suitcases, backpacks, duffels, and weekenders were checked for smart luggage with charging. The top picks for carry-on bags with built-in chargers are:
- The July Carry-on, which has a 42-liter capacity, weighs 7.4 pounds, and measures 21.5 x 15 x 8.5 inches.
- The Briggs & Riley hardside carry-on, which weighs 9.2 pounds, measures 22 x 14 x 9 inches, and does not include a battery.
- The Travelpro Crew Versapack Max Carry-On Spinner, which weighs 8 pounds, measures 23 x 15.5 x 10 inches, and has a 53-liter capacity.
- The aluminum Arlo Skye carry-on, which weighs 10.5 pounds, measures 23 x 15 x 9.6 inches, and comes with a battery included.
- The Samsonite rolling duffel, which weighs 4.81 pounds, measures 21.46 x 11.22 x 11.81, and does not include a battery.
When picking a carry-on with charging, think about capacity, weight, and size. Make sure it fits your travel needs for both domestic and international trips. The best carry-on for international travel is compact and doesn’t have an expander.
| Carry-On Bag | Capacity | Weight | Dimensions | Battery Included | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Away The Bigger Carry-On | – | – | – | Yes | $295 |
| Open Story Hardside Carry On Spinner | – | – | – | Yes | $136 (20% off) |
| Arlo Skye Zipper Carry-On Max with Front Pocket Suitcase | – | 10.5 lbs | 23 x 15 x 9.6 inches | Yes | $375 |
| Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside 19″ Expandable Carry-On | – | – | – | Yes | $365 |
| Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside Luggage | – | – | – | Yes | $136 |
There are also backpacks and duffels with built-in charging, like the MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack and the Kopack Waterproof Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack. These give you the freedom to move easily while keeping your devices charged.
Looking for a hardside, softside, or backpack-style carry-on with charging? There are many options out there. By researching and considering your travel needs, you can find the perfect bag to keep your devices powered up on the go.
Organizational Carry-On Suitcases
The best carry-on luggage has features like multiple compartments, pockets, and compression straps. These help keep your things neat and easy to reach while you travel. They make packing more efficient and help you use the space in your carry-on bag well.
Multiple Compartments and Pockets
Top-rated carry-on suitcases often have many compartments and pockets. They help you organize your stuff into different sections. You can have separate areas for clothes, toiletries, electronics, and accessories.
Some even have special spots for shoes or dirty laundry. This makes packing and unpacking easier. Compression straps and zippered pockets keep your items secure and separate. They stop things from moving around during the trip. These are great for those who pack a variety of items in their carry-on.
FAQ
What makes a great carry-on bag?
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Why does the Briggs & Riley Essential Carry-On stand out?
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What are some stylish and trendy carry-on bag options?
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