The Best Carry-On Luggage
Travel experts share top-tested carry-ons for every type of trip.
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A good carry-on suitcase should be easy to maneuver, spacious enough to hold everything you need and compact enough to fit in an airplane's overhead bin. Not to mention, it should be durable to last through many trips and stylish so you actually enjoy using it during your travels.
The fiber scientists and engineers at the Good Housekeeping Institute extensively test carry-on suitcases in the Textiles Lab and with the help of consumer testers. We assess top luggage brands like Away, Samsonite, Monos, Béis and more both in our Lab and on actual travels. You can learn more about how we test luggage and how to shop for your perfect carry-on at the end of this article, but first, here's everything you need to know about our top-tested carry-on styles, including specifications from the brands for size, weight, capacity and more.
Pros
- Lightweight and spacious for packing
- Durable material resists damage
- Easy to maneuver
Cons
- Some testers wished the telescopic handle was sturdier
Away's carry-on suitcase is super popular for a reason. Besides looking chic with its hard-shell exterior that's available in a range of colors, it also has a spacious capacity, smooth maneuverability and smart design features that make it easy to pack and take on the go. For starters, it has two separate packing sides — one with compression straps. It also has a top handle, side handle and an underside grab handle that makes it easier to lift, whether you're dealing with the TSA conveyor belt, an overhead airline bin or baggage claim.
Despite being a hardside case, this one is lighter than many softside options. It also proved to be durable in our Lab tests, resisting both scuffs in our scratch tests and dents in our drop tests. Consumer testers and Lab analysts all loved using it while traveling. The only complaint was that the telescopic handle seemed a bit flimsy to some users, but otherwise, they had nothing but praise for this carry-on. One described it as "stylish and easy to roll," while another summarized her experience by saying, "It fit all of the clothes I needed for a long weekend. It rolled really easily and was light enough to pop in and out of the overhead bin."
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Here's Why Away's Carry-On Lives Up to The Hype
Dimensions: 9" x 13.7" x 21.7" | Weight: 8.1 lbs | Capacity: 39.8 L | Material: Polycarbonate (hardside) | Colors: 10 options
Pros
- Smooth wheel performance and maneuverability
- Avoided major dents in drop tests
- Under $100
Cons
- Telescopic handle isn't as sturdy as other carry-ons, per testers
- Exterior showed marks in scratch tests
It's hard to find a good carry-on under $100, but this Amazon-brand suitcase is a bestseller with a spacious interior and smooth-rolling capabilities, despite its low cost. The hardside shell is made of ABS plastic, which is lightweight and less expensive than polycarbonate, though not quite as durable. It's also expandable and has interior compartments to keep you organized while packing.
The thing that impressed our consumer testers and Lab analysts the most was its wheel performance; a tester summarized it as "very easy to move" through our Lab's obstacle course. Its interior also held the entire load in our standardized packing test. The downsides: Testers said the telescopic handle wasn't as sturdy as other carry-ons and the shell showed marks during our Lab's scratch tests. That being said, it held up to damage fairly well during durability drop tests.
RELATED: The Best Luggage to Buy on Amazon
Dimensions: 22" x 14.9" x 10" | Weight: 7.3 lbs | Capacity: 23 L | Material: ABS plastic (hardside) | Colors: 4 options
Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner
Pros
- Under 7 pounds
- Smooth-rolling wheels
- Spacious and expandable
Cons
- Telescopic handle isn't as comfortable as others
Not only is this carry-on a great price for under $200, it's also one of the top-performing suitcases in our tests. The hardside exterior is made of polypropylene — which is known for being exceptionally lightweight — and the suitcase as a whole weighs less than other carry-ons we recommend. It's also spacious; in fact, it aced our Lab's packing tests and has a 1-inch expandable zipper to increase packing capacity if you need it.
The trade-off for it being so light is that the material wasn't as scratch-resistant as polycarbonate options, and the handle felt a bit loose in both Lab and consumer tests. That being said, it was still fairly durable and testers enjoyed using it during our obstacle course; they gave feedback like "the wheels moved really well," "very smooth rolling" and "easy to pick up."
Dimensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10.0" | Weight: 6.5 lbs | Capacity: 34 L | Material: Polypropylene (hardside) | Colors: 14 options
Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable
Pros
- Durable nylon fabric and water-resistant zippers
- Sturdy telescopic handle
- Includes lots of pockets and removable bags for organization
Cons
- Some testers complained that it was difficult to steer
Ideal for frequent flyers, Travelpro's softside suitcase is splurge-worthy thanks to its durability and convenience. It especially stood out in our evaluations for its nylon fabric, which aced our abrasion and drop tests with no signs of wear. Plus, its zippers kept contents dry in our water resistance test. We also like that it uses sturdy components like leather trim and chrome zippers.
It's built to keep you organized on the go, and one tester shared, "I love the amount of pockets!" On the inside, it fit every item in our packing test with room to spare, while its compartments made filling it a breeze. Travel testers loved the exterior compartments, which made it easy to access their essentials, and it even has a USB port that you can use if you have a power bank on hand. Some testers thought it looked old-fashioned (especially compared to the modern aesthetic of hardside cases), and there were mixed reviews on maneuverability. Some said they had issues steering it. But on the plus side, its contoured telescopic handle earned high marks for comfort and sturdiness.
Dimensions: 9" x 14.5" x 23.5" | Weight: 9.8 lbs | Capacity: 46 L | Material: Nylon (softside) | Colors: 6 options
Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry-On Spinner
Pros
- Built-in compression system
- Durable nylon fabric
- Comfortable to roll
Cons
- Very expensive
- On the heavier side
With a unique compression system unlike any other mechanism we've reviewed, this carry-on lets you pack more than you can possibly imagine by looking at it. Unlike most cases that use a zipper expansion, this one has a button inside that raises the edges. Once you fill it and zip it closed, you compress the sides by pushing it down. Travel testers gave it perfect scores and one told us, "It fit clothing and accessories for two people for a seven-day summer vacation." They also noted that it easily fit into an airline's overhead bin.
The nylon fabric proved to be durable in Lab tests, holding up to both abrasion and drop tests. Though the overall case weighed more than others when it was empty, the extra couple of pounds is a fair trade-off for the built-in features. It even has a garment folder that can hold dresses or suits on the go. Beyond that, it was comfortable to roll and easy to maneuver on the go.
Dimensions: 21" x 15" x 9" | Weight: 9.9 lbs | Capacity: 37 L | Material: Ballistic nylon (softside) | Colors: 4 options
DELSEY PARIS Helium DLX Softside Spinner Carry On
Pros
- Removable organizer included
- Machine washable lining
- Easy-access pockets
Cons
- Doesn't look or feel as luxurious as pricier softside options
If you're looking for softside luggage but don't want to spend several hundred dollars, this suitcase offers a great value. It's made of polyester fabric and has a no-frills yet roomy interior. It also expands if you need more packing space. And though polyester isn't quite as durable as nylon, Delsey's fabric has held up well in our Lab's durability tests.
Other perks: It has a removable lining that's machine washable for easy cleaning, and it comes with a removable organizing pouch that snaps into place inside the bag. Our analysts and testers also appreciated the bag's easy-access external sections, which are more typically found in softside luggage than hardside alternatives. Its wheels weren't as smooth as others, and it doesn't look as luxurious as pricier picks, but overall it earned good scores during use.
Dimensions: 14.25" x 10" x 23" | Weight: 6.7 lbs | Capacity: 23 L | Material: Polyester and nylon (softside) | Colors: 2 options
Pros
- Smooth wheels glide easily
- Comfortable handles
- Stylish appearance
Cons
- Didn't resist scratches as well as others in Lab tests
Sleek in both appearance and maneuverability, Calpak has a metallic appearance that stands out from other hardside carry-ons. It also earned high marks from our consumer testers for its smooth wheel performance, sturdy padded handle and easy maneuverability through our obstacle course. When comparing it to dozens of other models, one tester said it had the "smoothest handle by far and didn't feel wobbly. I really liked the shape and how seamless it felt." Nearly every tester said they wanted to keep it for themselves.
The hard side exterior is a composite with ABS plastic underneath and a polycarbonate coating. While the coating helps with durability, it still didn't resist scratches as well as the 100% polycarbonate bags in our tests. Still, it held up to our drop tests without denting and impressed Lab experts with its roomy interior that was easy to pack. The interior also has a combination of zippered storage, elastic pockets and compression straps to help you stay organized.
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Calpak's Luggage Combines Fashion and Function
Dimensions: 21.5" x 14" x 9" | Weight: 7.4 lbs | Capacity: 39.2 L | Material: Polycarbonate/ABS plastic blend (hardside) | Colors: 5 options
Béis The Carry-On Roller
Pros
- Chic design; hardware matches the suitcase color
- Built-in weight indicator
- Retractable strap to hold an extra bag while rolling
Cons
- Scuffed easily in tests
This brand from actress Shay Mitchell has gone viral on TikTok thanks to its stunning monochromatic designs and its unique features, including a built-in weight indicator that lets you know if your luggage is over 50 pounds. It also has an extendable strap in the front that lets you attach a smaller bag, helping to free up your hands while traveling.
When our analysts put it to the test in the Lab, its polyester shell resisted dents and damage after being repeatedly dropped. It did, however, show some scuffs around the edges, which testers also noticed in real-life settings. That being said, it's a great option for lifestyle travelers who are looking for a stylish option with smart features.
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Experts Weigh In on The Viral Béis Luggage
Dimensions: 15.7in" x 22.8" x 9.8" | Weight: 8.36 lbs | Capacity: 49 L | Material: Polycarbonate | Colors: 10 options
Pros
- Timeless and durable design
- Smooth, easy-to-use zippers
- Comfortable to roll and maneuver
Cons
- Scuffed in Lab and consumer tests
If you're looking for a bag that's built to last and won't go out of style, consider this simple yet not-so-basic carry-on from Monos. It's made with a durable polycarbonate shell that withstood damage during our Lab's drop tests and real-world travels, despite some scuffing. It also held an impressive amount in both Lab packing tests and at-home tests.
Besides its durability and packing features, this suitcase stood out for being smooth and easy to use. The zippers opened and closed easily, while the wheels glided seamlessly during travel tests. One tester said that it didn't even feel like she was pulling it, but rather, it was rolling alongside her.
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Monos Luggage is Absolutely Worth the Investment
Dimensions: 22" × 14" × 9" | Weight: 7 lbs | Capacity: 39.9 L | Material: Polycarbonate (hardside) | Colors: 11 options
How we test carry-on luggage
The Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles Lab regularly tests luggage by following standardized test methods and using specialized equipment. In recent years, we've tested over 50 carry-on models, considering dimensions, packability, durability and more.
In addition to our Lab tests, we set up an obstacle course for users to try out each suitcase and share their thoughts on aspects like the handles, wheels, maneuverability and appearance. Finally, we have testers bring the luggage with them for feedback from their real-world travels. Here's an in-depth look at how we choose which luggage to recommend:
✔️ Size and weight: We weigh each piece of luggage when it's empty then place the luggage in a 22" x 14" x 9" area to check whether it complies with the standard U.S. airline dimension restrictions for carry-on luggage.
✔️ Packing capabilities: We pack each piece of luggage (pictured) using a standard load with real items like clothing, shoes, toiletries and more. During this process, we rate the ease of opening and closing the zippers, the ease of accessing the compartments and how much of our standard load actually fits inside.
We also assess important components like the wheels, the telescopic handle and any special features. When the bag is fully packed, we practice rolling it over different surfaces, such as tile, carpet and hardwood, and lifting it on and off countertops to see how the handles feel during use.
✔️ Durability when dropped: We fill the luggage with a standard weight, load it onto our drop tester (pictured) and release the luggage from a set 3-foot height. The test is repeated in various directions, and we note any damages and imperfections that result.
✔️ Water resistance: To measure how well the luggage protects its contents from water, we measure how much water seeps through the zipper into an absorbent material underneath. The goal is to have the zippers fully block water from entering the inside of the luggage.
✔️ Abrasion resistance: We cut swatches of fabric from softside suitcases and load them into our abrasion machine (pictured), which rubs the fabric over an abrasive material 15,000 times before we grade it for signs of wear.
✔️ Scratch resistance: We drag a wire over hardside luggage material and then visually assess any scuffs and marks left behind.
✔️ Obstacle course: We fill each suitcase with weight to mimic a travel load and then set up a standard course to cover a variety of surfaces and obstacles, such as navigating twists and turns, lifting over curbs, transitioning to different flooring and more. Consumer testers then rate the luggage on factors like ease of using the handles, comfort when pulling the carry-on, sturdiness, wheel performance and maneuverability, among other subjective aspects.
✔️ Travel testing: Testers are assigned a carry-on to use during their trips. Upon their return, they fill out an in-depth survey where they provide feedback on aspects like the handles, wheels, comfort, organization, style and more. They also answer a series of open-ended questions, letting us know what they packed, what they liked and anything they disliked during their experience.
What size is considered "carry-on" luggage?
The most common size restriction for carry-on luggage in the U.S. is 22" x 14" x 9". However, each airline has its own size restrictions and international airlines tend to have more stringent requirements. When you shop, make sure that the dimensions include handles and wheels, not just the suitcase itself.
Is hard or soft luggage better for a carry-on?
We've had top performers (and poor performers) in both categories, but each material has its advantages that can help you make a decision when you shop. Here's what to keep in mind for each:
Hardside luggage: These suitcases have become more popular because they're protective, good-looking and surprisingly lightweight. But not all hard-shell materials are the same. Here are the most common ones you'll see when shopping:
- Polycarbonate: This is the most popular hardside option because it's lighter than metals (like aluminum) yet more durable than plastic. It has high impact resistance — i.e., it's durable when dropped — but it has lower scratch resistance, though sometimes the manufacturer will apply a special coating to prevent scuffs.
- ABS: Most low-cost hardside luggage is made of this plastic material. It's more affordable and more lightweight than polycarbonate, but it's less durable and more prone to scratches.
- Polycarbonate/ABS composites: You can also find suitcases that combine these materials, typically using ABS plastic underneath with a polycarbonate coating. This blend gives you some benefits of both, but it still isn't as durable as 100% polycarbonate.
Softside luggage: Fabric-based luggage is often easier to stuff into tight spaces and fill with more items. It also doesn't show scratches, though certain fabrics can abrade more easily over time, so you still need to shop with care:
- Nylon: The most common material for soft fabric cases, this synthetic fiber is durable and can withstand abrasion, making it ideal for frequent flyers who are rough on their bags.
- Polyester: This material is also a synthetic fiber, but it's typically less expensive and more lightweight than nylon. The downside is that it's also less durable, though we've seen some polyester suitcases with good abrasion resistance.
More carry-on luggage shopping tips
Besides considering the dimensions and material, here are other factors that can help you choose your best carry-on luggage:
✔️ Wheels: We recommend checking for four 360-degree wheels, as these consistently have the top maneuverability scores in our tests. If you're deciding between two and four wheels, here are the main differences to keep in mind:
- Four wheels give you the flexibility to push it, pull it and move it in all directions, yet you can still tilt it back and use it like two-wheeled luggage if you prefer.
- Two wheels roll only when you tilt the luggage, and you can only pull it back and forth, instead of side to side.
✔️ Telescopic handle: Check how easy it is to open and close, whether it can be adjusted to different heights and how comfortable it is to grip. Some handles even have extra padding for comfort. It may not seem like a big deal when the luggage is empty, but having a comfortable and sturdy handle makes a big difference once the suitcase is filled with heavy contents. Also, be sure to use care when opening and closing the handle; constant jerking can lead to damage over time.
✔️ Side handles: If you're going to be lifting and lowering the luggage from high surfaces, make sure the top and side handles are easy to grip.
✔️ Compartments: Consider whether you prefer a large open space that can hold a big load or smaller compartments that can help keep you organized. Carry-on interiors vary greatly among different models, and there are plenty of options to choose from, depending on your needs. You can also opt for a carry-on with exterior pockets if you need easy access to essentials when you're traveling.
✔️ Zippers: Zippers may not be top of mind when you shop, but it's important to consider both their water resistance and how easy they are to open and close. Some zippers can be finicky, so make sure to check before you commit to buying the bag by zipping and unzipping the bag multiple times. If you have water on hand, try placing a drop on the zipper to see if it seeps through or beads up.
✔️ Weight: A lightweight carry-on suitcase should weigh less than 8 pounds when empty.
✔️ Charging capabilities: Some styles come with USB ports and the option to add a battery to charge devices on the go; some even come with a battery included. Just make sure the battery meets Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations.
✔️ Warranties and returns: Warranties typically only cover manufacturer defects, which can be difficult to prove. If you're worried about committing to a purchase, instead of focusing on a warranty, check to see if there's an any-reason return policy or a trial period. This is an especially helpful option if you're shopping online without seeing and trying out the suitcase in person.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Lexie Sachs is the executive director of strategy & operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees a wide range of travel content, including luggage. She has been evaluating suitcases for over a decade and has personally tried out many of these carry-ons in her own travels, including flights, road trips, train rides and more. Lexie also manages Good Housekeeping's Family Travel Awards.
Prior updates to this article were written by Amanda Constantine, home and apparel reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute. Amanda regularly tests and writes about luggage, including suitcase shopping guides and in-depth brand reviews.
Carry-on luggage testing has also been performed by Good Housekeeping Institute analysts Emma Seymour, Grace Wu and Rachael Chen.
Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.
Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.
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