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best carry on luggage 2022

Top 10 Best Carry On Luggage 2022: Expert Picks

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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.

carry-on luggage

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.

Carry-on luggage options

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:

  1. The July Carry-on, which has a 42-liter capacity, weighs 7.4 pounds, and measures 21.5 x 15 x 8.5 inches.
  2. The Briggs & Riley hardside carry-on, which weighs 9.2 pounds, measures 22 x 14 x 9 inches, and does not include a battery.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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?

The best carry-on luggage is durable and easy to move around with. It should be made of strong materials like nylon or polycarbonate. These materials can handle scratches and scuffs well. It also needs smooth-rolling wheels and a comfy handle for easy movement in airports and cities.

Another key feature is its size and how well it’s organized inside. A good carry-on should have enough room for a 5-day trip. It should have features like straps to compress things, many pockets, and removable organizers. These help keep your stuff tidy and easy to find.

What are some award-winning carry-on luggage options?

The Wrangler 20-Inch Rolling Carry-On was named the best budget carry-on. It’s a hardshell spinner that’s easy to move around with and has lots of space for under . Testers liked its light weight and easy-opening zipper.

The Halfday Garment Duffel is another top pick for its style and usefulness. It has hooks for hanging clothes to keep them smooth, and special spots for shoes. The Vera Bradley Weekender Travel Bag is the best all-around carry-on. It’s strong, well-organized, and fits under airplane seats. It has many pockets and can be washed in a machine.

What carry-on bags do travel experts recommend?

Summer Hull suggests the Dagne Dover Large Dakota Neoprene Backpack for its mix of style and practicality. It’s water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve, and a top pocket for your phone. The Away Bigger Carry-On is great for domestic trips. It’s water-resistant and has a system to pack more stuff within size limits, plus a laundry bag and pockets for accessories.

What carry-on luggage do editors love?

Julie Ricevuto likes the Terra Thread Earth Backpack for its tough design and big size. It’s affordable but strong for trips at home or abroad. Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil loves the Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe duffel for its roominess, pockets, and comfy straps. She’s used it for years and it still looks great.

Julie Ricevuto also recommends the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack. It’s big, easy to get into, and has a hip belt for support. She’s taken it on big trips around the world.

What features does the Monos Carry-On Pro offer?

The Monos Carry-On Pro impressed Fran Sales with its big inside, useful pockets, and smooth wheels. It lets you pack a lot without giving up the laptop space.

Why does the Briggs & Riley Essential Carry-On stand out?

Leah Ginsberg likes the Briggs & Riley Essential Carry-On for its quality and useful features. It’s made of strong nylon and has everything you need for work or leisure trips.

What are some lightweight carry-on options?

For those who want to carry less, the Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner is a good choice. It’s under 7 pounds but still has lots of room and moves easily.

What are some stylish and trendy carry-on bag options?

Béis’ The Carry-On Roller is stylish and practical. It has a sleek design, matching hardware, smooth wheels, and a comfy handle.

What are the benefits of durable carry-on suitcases?

Hardside carry-on suitcases made of strong materials like polycarbonate protect your stuff better than softside ones. They’re less likely to get scratched or damaged.

What are the top carry-on luggage options for 2022?

We’ve found the best carry-on luggage for 2022. They offer great size, weight, strength, organization, and style for the best travel experience.

What are the advantages of carry-on luggage with spinner wheels?

Spinner carry-on bags move easily through crowded places with their four wheels. They’re better than two-wheeled suitcases for getting around airports and cities.

What carry-on bags offer built-in chargers?

Some carry-on luggage have USB ports and power banks built in. This lets you charge your devices on the go without extra cords or adapters.

What organizational features should I look for in a carry-on suitcase?

Look for carry-on luggage with good organization. They should have many pockets, compartments, and straps to keep your things tidy and easy to find while you’re traveling.

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