2024s Best Carry-On Luggage, Tested by Frequent Travelers

There are also only 3 colours to choose from – black, red and blue. You'll have plenty of room to pack all the necessities for a longer trip and won't have to worry about your luggage getting damaged en route. High Sierra wheeled duffles are backed by a 5-year warranty against manufacturing faults and defects. Our friendly and knowledgeable customer service team is always available to help you with any questions, concerns, or recommendations you may have. We go above and beyond to ensure that you are completely satisfied with your purchase and that your travels are seamless and enjoyable.
The Bumot Defender  top box coupled with its rear mounting bracket – as with the Bumot panniers – gets our RTW top box award as it’s the toughest box out there. If you’re riding to far flung corners of the world and don’t want to worry about aluminum luggage set   your hard luggage breaking or falling of their racks, then these are for you. The Givi Trekker Outback top box is made for one thing; to carry lots of gear. Even the smallest available size – 48 litres – can fit a full face helmet.

Furthermore, ensuring your luggage is of permissible weight prevents delays at the gate and avoids the potential for unexpected fees. The July Carry-On Light is astonishingly lightweight at just 2.2 kg, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize ease of movement and lightweight luggage. The above ratings are based on our experience with each luggage's size, durability, weight, mobility, security, and style. I have also considered online customer reviews to provide a comprehensive overview.
If you’re traveling for business, you’ll likely have more clothes and accessories than if you’re going on a leisure trip. Both types of luggage offer TSA approved locks which is a must have if you’re traveling to the United States. Aluminum luggage is made from a lightweight metal that is sturdy and durable.

You can filter all of our handpicked zipper luggage choices by price, size and material using the filter below. The brand also has a 90-day return policy for items shipped within the United States, but products must be completely unused. All returns must be mailed in the original packaging, so it's recommended that you keep this during your trial period. (Once you use the suitcase, the original box will also make it easier to process a repair should you need one.) Returns are not accepted for products shipped outside of the U.S. and U.S. territories. For a long-lasting yet lightweight case that brings understated style to any trip, look no further than the American Tourister Airconic 55CM carry-on case.
The easiest option is to fly with one airline and purchase a carry-on bag that fits within its limits. But if the maximum payload is what you need, you’ll need to sacrifice the durability of a hardshell by opting for a soft-sided suitcase. The world of airline cabin bag limits is frustratingly inconsistent. Each airline imposes its own rules and limits, and you better obey them to avoid checking in your luggage.

The interior also has an antimicrobial lining to keep odors at bay. On the outside, the bag has a removable shoulder strap with a padded section. Still, after six months of testing, we found it comfortable to carry with both the duffel-style strap and grab handles. The water-resistant material seems lightweight yet unlikely to tear, the seams appear reinforced, and the zippers work well.
They use a combination of materials, with aluminum taking center stage, offering a diverse range that caters to varied travel preferences. If you’re in the market for the best aluminum luggage that won’t break the bank or compromise on style and strength, MVST Select should undoubtedly be your first pick. I have recently tested and published my complete MVST TREK review, so I can personally vouch for its unparalleled quality and unmatched design. In the expansive, and dare I say expensive, world of aluminum luggage, there are countless brands vying for attention. But over the years, and after much trial and error, I’ve narrowed down my favorites to three standout brands that have consistently impressed me with their design, durability, and overall quality. Beyond its shining exterior lies a world of benefits that few other materials can offer.

Fortunately, Rimowa is known for producing top-quality suitcases with durable aluminium and polycarbonate casings and sturdy but lightweight construction. If you have a lust for even finer premium luggage, check out Rimowa’s collaboration with DIOR. Founded by a former Peace Corp volunteer in 1975, TUMI has established itself in the decades since as a premium luggage brand concerned with sustainability and technical innovation in its designs. Standing out among the brand’s extensive collection of suitcases, backpacks, handbags, accessories and more, are the 19 Degree aluminium Extended Trip packing case and the Voyageur Celina backpack. A veteran in the luggage game, Samsonite was founded in 1910 and to this day produces innovative travel accessories for the voyage-inclined.
Heritage style and contemporary materials co-exist in harmony in the FPM Milano Bank Spinner 55mm. A soft leather handle sits atop an aluminium shell, with interiors compartmentalised to promote optimal organisation. It’s not all Birkins and Kellys; Hermès’ peerless approach to craftsmanship extends to the realm of luggage. Crafted from canvas with leather handles and details, the Etribelt 48hFourre-Tour Bag is the ideal weekender or carry-on. With a generous inner compartment and interior pockets for storing smaller goods, it’s a safe bet for shorter journeys.
Hannah has an MA in Magazine Journalism and has previously worked as a freelance lifestyle and women’s sports journalist, working for Stylist, Sky  Sports and more. It moved over all terrains with ease, staying well-balanced and quiet, even on cobbles. Unfortunately, our water-resistance test disappointed, with moisture soaking through the exterior pocket and leaking through its centre. Rain peril aside, it’s a sturdy and robust model that fully withstands bumps and knocks. The brand has also partnered with Hackett London to create a timeless (but limited edition!) navy version – if you're a fan of the classic colourway, get yours while you can. These are currently out of stock (they're just that popular!) but we'll update this article when the suitcases are back in.

I've explored various options, from sleek hard-shells to versatile soft-shells, compact backpacks, and budget-friendly choices. Remember, your choice of carry-on luggage reflects your travel style and journey's essence. The Samsonite Enwrap Spinner, weighing 4 kg, offers a slightly more robust option with its checked medium size, suitable for longer trips or those requiring more packing space. The short-trip luggage has a 37-litre capacity, which is expandable to 41 litres, to pack all your essentials for a weekend getaway.
At 8.1 pounds, Arlo Skye’s Frame Carry-On is a bit bulkier than most hard-shell suitcases, but its hybrid polycarbonate shell is reinforced with an aluminum frame, making the bulk more bearable. The zipperless, 40-liter bag latches with two TSA-approved combination locks and is decked out with a compact charging station, portable charger, charging cable and adapter, two shoe bags, and a laundry bag. It rolls nicely and features an antimicrobial lining infused with natural silver fibers to prevent germ growth and odor-causing bacteria.

This one of the best hand luggage bags is perfect for frequent travellers who want high quality budget luggage and peace of mind knowing that their bag and everything inside will last the distance. The bag features an internal compression system to ensure you get the absolute maximum space out of your carry on luggage. A separate expandable zip also means you won’t ever need to leave anything behind.