Navigating through bustling airports, weaving through crowds, and fitting everything into the overhead compartment—travel can be a true test of patience and efficiency. But with the right carry-on luggage, your journey can transform from a stressful endeavor to a seamless adventure.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of carry-on luggage, uncovering the top options that marry style, durability, and functionality. From sleek spinners and durable hardsides to versatile backpacks and compact duffels, we have scrutinized a plethora of products to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a business traveler, or a weekend wanderer, the perfect carry-on companion awaits. So buckle up and get ready to discover the best carry-on luggage that promises to make your next trip smoother, more organized, and effortlessly chic
To find out what is the best rated carry on luggage in 2025 for you, read on! Meet the carry ons and get ready for your next trip!
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The Best Carry on Luggage
Nomatic Carry-on Pro
- Price > $549.99
- > Removable tech case
- > Incredibly fuctional design
Osprey Farpoint 36 Wheeled Travel Pack
- Price > $300
- > Extendable handle
- > Stowable straps
Nomatic Carry-on Classic
- Price > $399.99
- > Cheaper than the pro
- > With nearly all the same features
AER City Pack
- Price > $149
- > Innovative strap system
- > RFID-safe pocket
Gregory Quadro Hardcase Wheeled Luggage
- Price > $249.95
- > Thermal resistance and low temperature toughness
- > Activeshield compartment
Tortuga Travel Pack
- Price > $350
- > Water resistant materials
- > Versatile and stylish
Carl Friedrik – The Carry On
- Price > $695
- > Impact-resistant polycarbonate shell
- > Aluminium frame and zipperless locking system
Traveler’s Choice Pagosa Spinner Luggage
- Price > $74.99
- > Unremovable lithium battery
- > Internal organisation and expansion capacity
Baggage Allowance Calculator
Best Overall Carry-on Luggage for Modern-Day Travelers
Nomatic Carry-on Pro
This, by far and large, takes the cake as the most premium option for carry-on luggage. It is a beast of a bag and loaded with features you simply won’t find anywhere else on the market. It’s one of the best carry on suitcases in 2024 for sure.
First of all, it is super stylish. Sleek, sophisticated, and tough as nails, you definitely won’t look like any old traveller strutting through the airport, with this divine creature. This is the carry-on luggage for the traveler of the 21st-century. But it’s not all style: next up, let’s take a look at the SUBSTANCE going on here.
Designed by the luggage pros at Nomatic, the interior has been created for the maximum organisation of your belongings. There are genius packing compartments going on everywhere, zip pockets up the wazoo, and in-built compression systems to maximise your storage. The golden feature is the removable tech case on the front which makes zipping through airport security an absolute breeze!
Every little detail has been considered and reconsidered, from the super hardy exterior shell right down to the magnetic compression straps. Due to the Nomatic brand ecosystem, pairing it with other Nomatic products is a snap too!
For us what we loved most about the Nomatic Carry On Pro was the tech compartment, it felt very intuitive to use and as folks who always carry around laptops and associated accessories, it was the perfect way to keep our tech organised but separate from our clothes and other bits and pieces.
We also loved how smooth the wheels were on this case. If you need to speed through the airport to catch your next flight, this bad boy will easily keep up!
Check out our full guide to the best carry-on backpacks for more spicy deetz!
Best Overall Carry-on for Backpackers
Osprey Farpoint 36 Wheeled Travel Pack
Osprey is well known in the world of travel for their high-quality products, but it’s not just plain 0l’ backpacks that they make, as evidenced by the Osprey Farpoint 36 Wheeled Travel Pack.
Certainly the best softside carry-on you’re likely to find, this baby is like a backpack on wheels. It comes with an extendable telescopic handle so that you can pull it along like a rollaboard suitcase. That combination of features might just make it the best carry on suitcase in 2024.
Thankfully there are also stowable straps, which means you can sling this versatile backpack right onto your back when the adventure business starts. Basically, it is a very good choice if you feel like going on a short backpacking journey!
Osprey’s comfortable suspension system, with mesh back and padding, makes it super easy to wear for longer periods of time; we think it also looks smart enough to use for urban locations, too. The size – 36 litres – surprisingly meets carry-on size restrictions for most major airlines, which means you can save yourself money from the all-important backpacking budget. A clear winner.
For those looking for a hybrid between a case and a backpack this ticks all the boxes. For us what we loved was how comfortable and padded the shoulder and hip straps were. I sometimes struggle with backache after many years of backpacking but with all the adjustable straps I found it easy to get the fit just right.
A More Comfortably Priced Premium Carry-on Luggage
Nomatic Carry-on Classic
Much like the Carry-On Pro, this next offering from the dons at Nomatic is all about substance and style. It just does it at a more digestible price! It’s got a hard outer shell made of durable polycarbonate, TSA-ready locking YKK zippers, silent Japanese-made Hinomoto wheels (nice!), and all the organisation you need for a short trip away.
While practically the same as the Nomatic Carry-on Classic, with all the same interior organisation, the only difference is that it lacks the electronics compartment and removable tech case. But if having tech with you doesn’t matter, then you’ll love this top rollaboard carry-on.
This product is most certainly built to last and you’re really unlikely to have any broken wheels or stuck extendable handles. It’s slim, it’s smooth, and will fit into any luggage compartment that you need it to. We love the convenience of this one.
In terms of experience with this case, one of the many things that stood out to us was just how smooth and durable the wheels feel. Often I opt for a backpack over a wheeled case to avoid awkwardly dragging it over uneven surfaces, but Nomatic has put the work in here. It was smooth sailing from thick hotel carpets to pockmarked Indonesian pavements!
Best Underseat Carry-on
AER City Pack
The experts at AER have been at it again and have designed this travel pack that is easily the best under seat carry-on on the market.
That’s right, the AER City Pack has all the perks that you would by now expect from the innovating company. There’s a ton of organizational space, hidden pockets galore, an innovative strap system (they stow away for easy storage), an RFID-safe pocket, and even a shoe compartment in this case! Pretty cool.
There’s enough room in here for a day trip and to carry everything you might need for a day out working at a cafe too. It’s sleek, it’s cool, it’s an organisation lover’s dream, and yes: it will slide right underneath the seat in front of you on any plane, so you can easily get to your stuff when you need it.
What else can we say? This pack is truly one of the best carry-on backpacks out there right now. If you travel a lot and you’re thinking of investing in luggage to fit your lifestyle, you may want to consider this one. We highly rate it!
From our experience of using this bag, one of the stand-out features is the chonkass super smooth zips. Ohh, who doesn’t love the sound of a good quality zip in the morning! In all seriousness though, these bad boys look like they can take a beating and won’t get snagged when you need to get your gear in a rush.
Great Cheap Hardside Carry-on
Gregory Quadro Hardcase Wheeled Luggage
Even though the Gregory Quadro Hardcase Wheeled Luggage boasts an impressive 42 liters of room, it still miraculously meets the carry-on standards for most airlines. And much cheaper than other hardside cases, such as Nomatic’s offerings, it’s our pick for a great cheap hardside carry-on!
Offering a lot of protection for your precious belongings, the outer shell of this one is made from reinforced polycarbonate, which should withstand heavy impacts; it also boasts “thermal resistance and low-temperature toughness.” Inside, obviously, there’s a whole lot of storage space. It works very well for frequent travellers, with lots of organisational pockets and straps to keep things in place.
There are also expansion zippers to give you an extra 15 percent packing volume if you need it. One of our most favourite things about this is the separate Activeshield compartment, which is specially made for dirty clothes, ski boots or any other used gear out of the way of your clean stuff. No bad smells!
The telescopic handle is durable and rubber coated for comfort and grip, while down below the wheel system is caster-like and allows for multidirectional rolling. Don’t you just hate it when your suitcase falls over itself because the wheels don’t move intuitively? Not with this great hardside carry-on luggage! If you are looking for a cheaper carry, then this may be the one.
Usage wise we can confirm that the Activeshield compartment is an absolute revelation! It really solves the issue of what to do with your dirty clothing whilst travelling and works super easily and feels durable.
Best Carry-on Backpack
Tortuga Travel Pack
The Tortuga Travel Pack is a serious piece of equipment. The revamped Travel Pack has been custom designed to be accepted for carry on all over the world. It makes for a great carry-on backpack if you want to keep your backpack with you rather than check it in.
As well as being globally carry-on ready, it’s also got a phenomenal design, great organization, and it has HUGE amounts of space. Tortuga might be the company that best knows how to create space within their bags so you can pack the compartments to your heart’s content.
If you are looking for a bag for shorter trips, and everyday use, I think the Minaal or Aer will work better. But if you are a serious traveler and expect to be on the road for weeks or months at a time, a 40L will give you tons more space and capacity to take your clothes, and belongings with you. The ability to take a bag like this on long term travels is amazing.
One thing I noticed about this pack is how durable and strong the zippers are!
Want to know more? Read our comprehensive review of the Tortuga Travel Pack then!
Best Luxury Carry-on
Carl Friedrik – The Carry On
There is absolutely no universe in which anybody needs a £400+ carry-on suitcase. Let’s establish that before we go any further.
But if you’re prepared to spend serious money on your luggage, the Carl Friedrik Carry-on Hybrid is a rather beautiful bit of kit. The London-based brand has taken an impact-resistant polycarbonate shell, wrapped it in a rigid aluminium frame and ditched the usual zipper entirely. Instead, two TSA-approved combination locks snap the case shut. The result sits somewhere between a conventional hardshell spinner and the considerably more expensive aluminium luggage you see being wheeled around business-class lounges.
The attention to detail is excellent. You get smooth-running Hinomoto spinner wheels, an adjustable trolley handle, leather detailing and a surprisingly tidy interior with compression straps and a compression pad. At 41 litres, there’s also enough room here for a proper short trip rather than just an overnight change of clothes.
There is, however, a hefty catch. Quite literally. The Carry-on Hybrid weighs 4.3kg empty. If your airline gives you an 8kg cabin baggage allowance, more than half of it has disappeared before you’ve packed your pants. At 56cm tall, it’s also worth checking your airline’s dimensions rather than blindly assuming that “carry-on” means carry-on everywhere.
And then there’s the price. You’re paying a serious premium for the materials, construction and frankly gorgeous design rather than getting substantially more packing space or functionality. Budget travellers should keep scrolling.
But that’s also why we like it. Most premium suitcases are ultimately fairly ordinary plastic boxes with increasingly silly price tags. The aluminium frame and zipperless locking system make the Carl Friedrik feel genuinely different. If you travel regularly, mostly fly with generous cabin allowances and want a case you’ll actually enjoy owning, this is one of the most handsome carry-ons we’ve come across.
Best Carry-on with a Removable Battery
Traveler’s Choice Pagosa Spinner Luggage
Today there are a lot more considerations that luggage solutions have to put into play – one of them being an actual way to charge your phone or laptop. Yes, in case you didn’t know, that is a thing: a rechargeable battery unit within the actual suitcase itself.
And this one, the Traveler’s Choice Pagosa Spinner Luggage, has got to be the best carry-on with a removable battery. Why removable? Because going through security with an unremovable lithium battery (such as you find in your laptop) is not allowed. Simple!
Plug your phone in with a USB type C port straight into that interior power bank to get your battery up to 100% in no time. And then you need to go through airport security, simply remove the power bank to comply with security standards.
There’s also a lot of internal organisation going on here, so you can make sure that your stuff arrives as organised as you made it in the first place. There is also some expansion capacity, too, if you happen to fill up on souvenirs on your trip.
This carry-on suitcase is also built to last: the hard shell is abrasion, scratch and water resistance. In fact, it’s one of then stand-out features our testers mentioned. The case felt super durable on the road with enough protection to keep your gear safe but enough give to not be brittle.
More of the Best Carry-on Luggage
Sherpani Meridian Wheeled Luggage
In contrast to our last pick, this top carry-on suitcase is a sleek and serious affair. A wheeled suitcase, the Sherpani Meridian meets most carry-on size restrictions and boasts a whopping 40 liters of space to pack all your stuff.
Needless to say, this spacious bag allows for not just overnight and weekend travel, but for longer trips too. Made from durable, weather resistant fabric to keep all your important stuff dry, this suitcase from Sherpani boasts large, sturdy wheels which hold their own on unsteady surfaces.
Inside there are two interior zippered pockets, as well as a mesh pocket and compression straps just to make sure everything is kept in place nice and secure. In addition, the integrated TSA approved locking system on this carry-on suitcase is built to deter any potential thieves.
This smart suitcase also boasts RFID-blocking material to stop skimmers, as well as a side water bottle pocket and shoe storage in a separate pocket.
It’s the kind of suitcase that’ll last you for a while – you won’t want to replace it!
After some rigorous testing one of the things our team pointed out about this case that they loved, in particular, was the handle. It felt strong and comfortable without adding too much weight, it also meant the case was easy to handle on stairs when it needed picking up.
LoJel Voja
The Lojel Voja is a robust and stylish suitcase that combines functional design with durability, making it an excellent choice for both frequent travellers and occasional adventurers. Characterised by its minimalist aesthetic and constructed from a tough polypropylene shell, the Voja features smooth and silent-running wheels, a telescoping handle, and a built in secure, tamper-proof locking system.
Inside, it offers a well-organised interior with compartments that make packing and accessing belongings straightforward and neat.
The wheels on this case spin and turn and pivot beautifully making it a dream to manoeuvre. However the feel and touch of the (admittedly hard) shell does divide opinion and personally I found the locking system tricker to figure out than I would like.
There are 3 sizes available, small (carry on), medium and large as well as a range of striking, funky colours. Only the small one is suitable for carry-on but you already knew that right?!
- Funky colours
- Solid shell
- Built in locking system
- Great wheels
- Fair price
- Heavyish
- Shell doesnt feel nice to touch
AEROTRUNK Pangolin
The Aerospace Pangolin carry-on case is a durable and functional option for business travelers and digital nomads. It features a front pocket designed to securely hold laptops up to 15 inches, which is protected by the bag’s aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell. This case is notably convenient as it allows travelers to access their laptops easily, especially at security checks.
The dimensions of the Pangolin carry-on are 23 inches by 15 inches by 9.5 inches (58 cm x 38 cm x 24 cm), and it weighs 8.5 lbs (3.85 kg). It’s designed with an emphasis on robustness and style, ensuring that your belongings are well protected while you travel.
In terms of organization, the case includes three internal zippered bags, an antibacterial fabric lining, vegan leather details, and an integrated compression pad with straps to keep belongings securely in place. The suitcase is also equipped with Japanese Hinomoto 360-degree spinner wheels, which are known for their whisper-quiet operation. Additionally, it features YKK lockable zippers, TSA-approved combination locks, and a telescoping handle with four height settings.
The Pangolin carry-on also comes with some useful accessories, including a dust bag, scuff sponge, and vegan leather luggage tag, further enhancing its functionality and value.
- Well Organised:
- Expandable Storage: Offers additional packing capacity with a zippered expansion, perfect for fitting in extra items.
- Durability: Constructed with strong, coated polyester fabric and featuring a sturdy design it feels robust.
- Limited Size: As a 21-inch carry-on, it may not be sufficient for travelers needing more space for extended trips.
- Cost: Can be on the pricier side compared to other carry-ons
Travelpro Maxlite 5 21”
Discover the epitome of traveling convenience with the Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Expandable Spinner. Crafted from durable, lightweight polyester fabric with DuraGuard® coating, this bag resists water and stains, ensuring your belongings stay secure and dry, no matter where your journey takes you. The four-wheel spinners glide effortlessly in any direction, allowing for smooth navigation through busy terminals and tight airplane aisles.
The interior of the Maxlite 5 is meticulously designed for the organized traveler. With a full-length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket, and adjustable hold-down straps, your items stay neatly in place. The expansion capability provides additional space with just a quick zip, accommodating those extra souvenirs and travel purchases.
Not only is this spinner tailored for convenience and durability, but it also features a sleek, contemporary look that stands out elegantly in the overhead bin or luggage carousel. Its dimensions are compliant with the carry-on size restrictions for most domestic airlines, making it an ideal companion for the frequent flyer who values efficiency, style, and peace of mind.
- Lightweight Design: At just 5.4 lbs, it’s designed for ease of mobility, making it less burdensome to carry through airports and cities.
- Expandable Storage: Offers additional packing capacity with a zippered expansion, perfect for fitting in extra items.
- Durability: Constructed with strong, coated polyester fabric and featuring a sturdy design that Travelpro is known for, it’s built to withstand the rigours of travel.
- Limited Size: As a 21-inch carry-on, it may not be sufficient for travelers needing more space for extended trips.
- No Smart Features: Lacks modern smart features such as built-in chargers or GPS trackers that some travelers might look for.
- Cost: Can be on the pricier side compared to other carry-ons in the market, potentially a con for budget-conscious buyers.
Monos Carry-On
The Monos Carry-On is the quintessential travel companion for the minimalist and style-conscious traveler. Embodying a philosophy where less is more, this carry-on fuses sleek design with unparalleled functionality. The aerospace-grade polycarbonate hard shell encapsulates resilience while maintaining a light touch, ensuring that your travel essentials are well-protected without adding unnecessary weight.
Internally, the Monos Carry-On shines with an organizational system that caters to the needs of the meticulous packer. A zippered panel on one half prevents clothes from moving, while the other half uses compression straps to maximize packing space, enabling you to bring more of what you love. Thoughtfully placed pockets ensure small items are always within reach. Silent-run wheels glide with ease, providing a tranquil airport experience.
The Monos Carry-On extends beyond just being luggage; it’s a statement of travel philosophy. It represents a commitment to journeying with grace and ease, a reflection of the brand’s dedication to creating products that support a mindful and unburdened way of life. For the earth-conscious, Monos’ use of vegan leather details and a customer-friendly warranty and repair program reinforces its dedication to sustainability and customer care.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Minimalist design with premium materials, appealing to travelers who desire a combination of style and function.
- High-Quality Materials: Crafted with a durable polycarbonate shell and vegan leather details, ensuring longevity and resistance to travel-related wear and tear.
- Smooth and Quiet Mobility: Designed with whisper-quiet wheels for a more pleasant transit experience through various terrains.
- Price Point: As a premium luggage brand, the Monos Carry-On comes with a higher price tag, which may be a significant investment for some.
- Interior Space: While designed for efficiency, some travelers might find the space limited compared to more expansively designed carry-ons.
- Lack of External Compartments: The sleek design omits external pockets, which could limit the ease of accessing travel essentials on the go.
SwissGear Sion Expandable Carry-On 21″
Navigate your travels with the SwissGear Sion Expandable Carry-On 21″ Luggage, a harmonious blend of reliability and savvy design. SwissGear, renowned for its commitment to quality, has engineered this piece with a durable polyester fabric that stands up against the wear and tear of travel. The reinforced corners defend against the harshest travel conditions.
Inside the Sion Expandable Carry-On, functionality takes center stage with a spacious main compartment that’s fully lined and equipped with luggage tie-down straps. An additional large interior zippered mesh pocket allows for organized packing, and the exterior front pockets provide easy access to travel documents, reading materials, and essential items.
The aesthetics are not overlooked, featuring a sleek black fabric with distinctive SwissGear branding. This carry-on complies with the carry-on requirements for most major airlines, making it a top choice for regular travelers who need a reliable travel companion that combines style, comfort, and durability. The SwissGear Sion is not just luggage; it’s an investment in travel readiness.
- Storage Flexibility: Expandable design provides extra packing space when needed, with multiple compartments for organization.
- Mobility: Equipped with a smooth, eight-wheel spinner system that ensures stable and effortless movement.
- Resilient Construction: Built with durable materials and reinforced corners designed to withstand frequent use.
- Weight: While it offers durability, the robust construction can add to the overall weight, which might be a consideration for those strictly adhering to airline weight limits.
- Limited Color Options: The classic design might lack variety for those looking for more personalized or varied color choices.
- Exterior Pockets: While convenient, items in exterior pockets can be less secure and might contribute to the bag exceeding carry-on size limits when overfilled.
Monos Carry-On
The Monos Carry-On is the quintessential travel companion for the minimalist and style-conscious traveler. Embodying a philosophy where less is more, this carry-on fuses sleek design with unparalleled functionality. The aerospace-grade polycarbonate hard shell encapsulates resilience while maintaining a light touch, ensuring that your travel essentials are well-protected without adding unnecessary weight.
Internally, the Monos Carry-On shines with an organizational system that caters to the needs of the meticulous packer. A zippered panel on one half prevents clothes from moving, while the other half uses compression straps to maximize packing space, enabling you to bring more of what you love. Thoughtfully placed pockets ensure small items are always within reach. Silent-run wheels glide with ease, providing a tranquil airport experience.
The Monos Carry-On extends beyond just being luggage; it’s a statement of travel philosophy. It represents a commitment to journeying with grace and ease, a reflection of the brand’s dedication to creating products that support a mindful and unburdened way of life. For the earth-conscious, Monos’ use of vegan leather details and a customer-friendly warranty and repair program reinforces its dedication to sustainability and customer care.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Minimalist design with premium materials, appealing to travelers who desire a combination of style and function.
- High-Quality Materials: Crafted with a durable polycarbonate shell and vegan leather details, ensuring longevity and resistance to travel-related wear and tear.
- Smooth and Quiet Mobility: Designed with whisper-quiet wheels for a more pleasant transit experience through various terrains.
- Price Point: As a premium luggage brand, the Monos Carry-On comes with a higher price tag, which may be a significant investment for some.
- Interior Space: While designed for efficiency, some travelers might find the space limited compared to more expansively designed carry-ons.
- Lack of External Compartments: The sleek design omits external pockets, which could limit the ease of accessing travel essentials on the go.
SwissGear Sion Expandable Carry-On 21″
Navigate your travels with the SwissGear Sion Expandable Carry-On 21″ Luggage, a harmonious blend of reliability and savvy design. SwissGear, renowned for its commitment to quality, has engineered this piece with a durable polyester fabric that stands up against the wear and tear of travel. The reinforced corners defend against the harshest travel conditions.
Inside the Sion Expandable Carry-On, functionality takes center stage with a spacious main compartment that’s fully lined and equipped with luggage tie-down straps. An additional large interior zippered mesh pocket allows for organized packing, and the exterior front pockets provide easy access to travel documents, reading materials, and essential items.
The aesthetics are not overlooked, featuring a sleek black fabric with distinctive SwissGear branding. This carry-on complies with the carry-on requirements for most major airlines, making it a top choice for regular travelers who need a reliable travel companion that combines style, comfort, and durability. The SwissGear Sion is not just luggage; it’s an investment in travel readiness.
- Storage Flexibility: Expandable design provides extra packing space when needed, with multiple compartments for organization.
- Mobility: Equipped with a smooth, eight-wheel spinner system that ensures stable and effortless movement.
- Resilient Construction: Built with durable materials and reinforced corners designed to withstand frequent use.
- Weight: While it offers durability, the robust construction can add to the overall weight, which might be a consideration for those strictly adhering to airline weight limits.
- Limited Color Options: The classic design might lack variety for those looking for more personalized or varied color choices.
- Exterior Pockets: While convenient, items in exterior pockets can be less secure and might contribute to the bag exceeding carry-on size limits when overfilled.
Now, you could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.
So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card! REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉
Buy on REI!Quick Guide To Choosing Carry-on Luggage
Choosing the right carry-on piece of luggage for your next trip isn’t quite as simple as choosing the most reputable luggage brand or seeking out the pack that has the best reviews. Firstly, you need to make sure that whatever pack you take is going to be acceptable as carry-on luggage – requirements do tend to vary a bit domestically and internationally and even (frustratingly) between major airlines.
As a good rule of thumb, make that your carry-on does not exceed 21″ x 14″ x 9″ – if you go for 22 x 14, you may occasionally fall foul.
The next dilemmas to address are whether you want a soft shell or a hard shell and whether you want it to have multi-directional wheels or not (FYI -in the case of duffel bags and backpacks, don’t expect wheels!).
This largely depends on what kind of trip you are taking and where you will be taking your carry-ons. If it is simply a case of carrying it out around the airport, then wheels will be fine but if you’ll be dragging it across the cobbled streets of Granada, then you won’t be able to use these wheels and will wish you had something carry-able! Trust us, we’ve been there!
This Guide Will Assist You in Choosing Between a Duffel Bag or Carry-On for Your Travel Needs
Our final top tip is to test your bag BEFORE your trip. Try packing and unpacking it and carrying it around your home and garden to see how it feels. If it doesn’t quite feel right, then you can always change it. Sure, we’ve done most of the hard graft here for you, but when it comes to picking out what’s right for YOU, well, only you know what feels right.
Oh, and another important factor too is knowing how to travel with hand luggage only too!
We have included a bigger choice a carry-on guide towards the end of this article.
Buyer Guide – How to Choose the Best Carry-on Luggage
There you have it – those were our selections for the best carry-on luggage out there right now. There is a whole lot to choose from, sure, but how do you choose the best one for you? Worry not: we’re about to run you through the things you should be looking for when it comes to choosing a carry-on luggage solution that’s fit for purpose and will be a welcome addition to your travel wardrobe.
1. Style
The term “carry-on” doesn’t mean just one style of bag. There are actually a lot of different types that can be put into this category.
From purpose designed suitcases that fit the measurements required for hand luggage, to easygoing duffels, there is a lot to think about here.
It is all about what suits you. If what you want is the dream of one-bag travel, then you may want something like a suitcase that can fit a lot into it; or maybe you would be interested in a high capacity backpack – like one of Nomatic’s offerings – that will allow you to simply pack everything you need into one piece of carry-on luggage.
Then again, if all you are looking to do is to supplement your check-in luggage, then you won’t mind having something smaller. Perhaps something like the Nomatic Messenger Bag would suit you, or if you are going far away from the office and heading into the woods, the Tepui Tents Expedition Series would be more suitable for you.
2. Materials
Carry-on luggage can obviously be made out of a wide range of materials. This ranges from the simple leather – of, say, a classic duffel bag – to the high performance reinforced polycarbonate of some of the hardside suitcases out there.
For business trips, it’s not likely that you’re going to need something that’s super durable and weather resistant; airport to taxi to hotel to office isn’t likely to take much of a physical strain on your luggage.
On the other hand, if you are thinking of getting a piece of carry-on luggage that you will be using for a weekend getaway, or even as a supplement to checked-in luggage (maybe you’ll end up using it as a day pack), then you may want something a little more durable and weather resistant… For obvious reasons!
Other materials that are more solutions for the modern day include RFID-blocking materials that stop important information (and money) being stolen from you electronically by skimmers. Those with luggage that falls into this category, and especially in an urban environment, will want to bear this in mind.
3. Capacity
Those pesky fees for check-in luggage may mean you want to pack everything into a weekend bag. We all want to save money when we travel, right?
Having carry-on luggage that boasts a high capacity (think 30L +) of packing space means that the dream of one-bag travel can be a reality. However, with the increased capacity is the increased weight – which isn’t always comfy – and also the increased chance of the bag not being carry-on sized. The best carry on luggage size is around the 25-30L mark.
While many airlines around the world take many of the bags we’ve listed, some are not carry-on standard for all airlines (ie international carry). No matter what the size, it’s always a good idea to check with airport staff about what size of bag is acceptable. Most airports will have somewhere you can check to make sure your bag complies with size standards, anyway. Remember the best international carry on luggage in 2024 might be different to your choices for domestic travel.
4. Organisation
Carry-on luggage definitely boasts different levels of organisation in their various compartments. Some carry-on luggage may just have one main compartment, where you can just stash clothes and a few accessories in side pockets.
Others – like many in the Nomatic series – have a whole ton of organisational space, complete with different compartments, zipper pockets and sometimes even the option to buy additional packing cubes to make the whole process even more organised and streamlined.
When it comes to making sure your stuff stays in place, you should see if the carry-on luggage you want comes complete with its own compression straps or tie down straps; this can really help you be organised, as keeping your clothes in place in one part of the bag will allow for a laundry bag or something else to take up the saved space.
Take note that some bags will also come with separate compartments where dirty clothes and shoes can be kept – this is something to bear in mind if you’re heading on a hiking trip or somewhere your clothes will get mucky.
5. Purpose
What do you want your carry-on luggage for? That is possibly the biggest question to consider when you are thinking of purchasing a new bag.
That is not only because of what the bag will look like, but also its functionality, too. What you buy will very much depend on what you intend to use it for.
An example would be a business trip. This sort of thing may not require a huge bag, and may only need a messenger bag or small suitcase. Chances are a trip like this will be to a city, where you won’t exactly want to turn up with a scruffy looking duffel bag; you’ll want to look as streamlined as everyone else around you.
Again, if you are heading for a city break, chances are you won’t need some hiking quality carry-on luggage. You may want to opt for something that means you blend in more to the backdrop of the city; this not only means that you feel comfortable in your surroundings, but will also make you stick out less as a tourist, and less of a potential target for pickpockets.
When it comes to a backpacking trip, we would say that a suitcase is basically out of the question. A backpack, or a versatile carry-on bag that can transform from a duffel to a backpack, would be much more suited to a backpacking trip around Southeast Asia than a hardside suitcase designed more for city trips.
So ensure that you consider what types of trip you will be making, and how often you will be making them, before you make a final decision on what brand new carry-on luggage you decide to purchase.
Another thing to consider is the versatility of the bag you are looking at. Is it too bulky to be used as a daypack, or is it streamlined enough that it can be used day-to-day as well as for weekend trips? If a good all-rounder is what you are looking for in a carry-on bag, then the ability for it to be used for many different functions is probably something that your bag of choice should have.
Travelling on the cheap around Europe? You’ll probably be needing this guide to Ryanair compliant carry-on bags!
6. Price
This is something that obviously will affect what you want to buy, but there is more to it than you think.
Not all bags that are cheap are necessarily ‘not as good’ as other bags; some may be on sale, others may simply be older versions of products that have since been built upon.
Another thing to consider is just how often you will be travelling. Frequent travellers will probably want something that is more of an investment; it is only natural that more wear and tear is likely to have an inferior quality bag falling apart at the seams after years of use. An investment piece, however, is something that will last trip after trip.
If you don’t travel all that much, but instead only take a few trips a year, then you probably don’t need to spend a whole chunk of money on getting the best, most top of the range product for you.
However, paying more money does usually mean that you get one of the best products going at the moment. This instantly makes us think of the Nomatic series which is, though pricey, is top quality stuff that has been thoroughly designed. So consider price vs quality when you’re looking for the best affordable carry-on luggage for 2024.
| Nomatic Carry-on Pro | 29 | 55.88 x 35.56 x 22.86 | 4.02 | 549.99 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Osprey Farpoint 36 Wheeled Travel Pack | 36 | 54 x 38.99 x 30.99 | 2.40 | 280 |
| Nomatic Carry-on Classic | 30 | 55.88 x 35.56 x 22.86 | 3.38 | 399.99 |
| AER Flight Pack | 19 | 46 x 30.5 x 13 | 1.27 | 160 |
| Gregory Quadro Hardcase Wheeled Luggage | 42 | 55.88 x 35.56 x 22.86 | 3.47 | 249.95 |
| Nomatic Travel Bag | 30 | 22.86 x 48.26 x 33.02 | 1.50 | 279.99 |
| Thule Revolve Carry-on Spinner | 33 | 55.88 x 35.56 x 22.86 | 3.18 | – |
| Fjallraven Splitpack | ||||
| Sherpani Flite 22 Wheeled Luggage | 44 | 50.8 x 33.02 x 24.13 | 2.27 | – |
| Eagle Creek Tarmac Carry-on Wheeled Luggage | 40 | 55.88 x 34.93 x 22.86 | 3.37 | 359 |
| Millican Oli The Zip Pack | 25 | 52.07 x 27.94 x 17.78 | 0.91 | – |
FAQ about the Best Carry On Luggage
Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:
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Final Thoughts on the Best Carry-on Luggage
There are so many different options for the best carry-on bags in 2025 that it really can be a difficult choice to make. But with our extensive list of the winning bags out there, and our handy guide on how to choose the best carry-on luggage for you, we hope you’ll be able to make the right choice for you and that our expert knowledge has helped you.
There are a whole lot of cool bags out there. From durable duffels and hardside suitcases to versatile backpacks and sleek-looking bags that work just as well in a city as they would do on a backpacking adventure, so you’re spoilt for choice!
Our number one choice for the overall best carry-on luggage is the Osprey Farpoint 36 Wheeled Travel Pack. So if you’re stuck and want our top recommendation, this is the one to go with; it’s just about the best choice you can make and it’s a bag many members of our team have sworn by for plenty of trips around the world.
Another of our favourites is the Topo Designs 30L Travel Bag – it’s colourful, it’s durable, and it’s just as good for backpacking as it is for a daypack or a city adventure. It’s a great alternative to the professional-looking Nomatic series.
Are you the proud owner of an awesome carry-on bag that’s not on this list? Tell us about it in the comments below if you think it might be a contender for best carry-on in 2025!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
With a view that narrow it is hard to believe anything you might observe about any other travel case. I happen to like the SOLGAARD carry-on. It may not be the ideal travel case but for some travelers that need to keep themselves organized and be ready to move quickly, the Closet is a great idea.
Why don’t you expound about your dislikes of the Closet!
why no mention of the Solgaard Closet carry-on?
Because we don’t like it.