Finding the best carry-on luggage changed how I travel. After years of dragging checked bags through airports, paying fees, and waiting at carousels, I switched to carry-on only and never looked back. The right suitcase saves time, money, and stress every single trip.
Our team spent weeks comparing eight top-rated carry-on suitcases from brands like Away, Travelpro, Samsonite, LEVEL8, and Amazon Basics. We looked at everything from polycarbonate shell durability to spinner wheel smoothness, interior compression systems, and airline compatibility. The goal was simple: find the best carry-on luggage for every type of traveler and budget.
What we learned is that there is no single perfect bag. Business travelers need USB ports and garment suiters. Budget travelers need something that survives a dozen flights without falling apart. Frequent flyers prioritize lightweight builds and lifetime warranties. This guide covers all eight picks in depth, with a buying guide to help you match the right suitcase to your specific travel style.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Carry-On Luggage Picks for 2026
Away The Carry-On
- 100% Polycarbonate Shell
- WhisperGlide 360 Wheels
- Interior Compression System
- TSA Lock
- LifetimeCare Coverage
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside
- Only 5.4 lbs Lightweight
- 46L Capacity
- 360 Spinner Wheels
- Expandable 2-Inch
- DuraGuard Coating
Amazon Basics 21-inch Hardside
- Scratch-Resistant ABS Shell
- Expandable 25 Percent
- 4 Spinner Wheels
- Organized Interior
- Budget-Friendly
Best Carry-On Luggage in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Away The Carry-On |
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| Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside |
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 Travelpro Platinum Elite |
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 Samsonite Freeform Hardside |
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 Samsonite Omni PC Hardside |
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 LEVEL8 Grace Carry-On |
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| Amazon Basics 21-inch Hardside |
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 Travelers Club Chicago Hardside |
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1. Away The Carry-On – Premium Polycarbonate Shell
Away The Carry-On Luggage, 22-inch Lightweight Hardside Spinner Suitcase
22-inch Polycarbonate Shell
7.5 lbs
35L Capacity
TSA Combination Lock
LifetimeCare Coverage
Pros
- Premium 100% polycarbonate hard shell construction
- WhisperGlide 360-degree spinner wheels glide silently
- Patented dual-buckle interior compression system
- Includes laundry bag and 3 mesh pockets
- TSA-approved combination lock
- Away LifetimeCare Coverage included
Cons
- Higher price point than most competitors
- Some reports of handle defects though warranty covers repairs
I tested the Away Carry-On on a five-day trip to Chicago, and it immediately felt different from cheaper suitcases I had used before. The 100% polycarbonate shell has a satisfying rigidity that flexes just enough under pressure without cracking. At 7.5 pounds, it sits in the middle of the weight range for hardshell carry-ons, neither featherlight nor cumbersome.
The WhisperGlide 360-degree spinner wheels are the standout feature. They roll silently across tile, carpet, and even rough sidewalk pavement with zero wobble. I navigated O’Hare airport during a rush without the bag tipping once, which is something I cannot say about every spinner suitcase I have owned.
Inside, the patented dual-buckle CompressMore system genuinely fits more than you expect. I packed five days of clothing, a pair of shoes, and toiletries with room to spare. The included laundry bag kept dirty clothes separated, and the three mesh pockets on the interior lid kept small items organized rather than loose at the bottom.
The TSA-approved combination lock is built into the side and operates smoothly. The quick-release trolley handle locks at three different heights, which matters more than you think if you are shorter or taller than average. Away backs this bag with their LifetimeCare Coverage, which covers functional damage from manufacturing defects or rough travel for the life of the suitcase.
Ideal Traveler Profile
This bag is perfect for frequent flyers who want a premium carry-on that looks sharp and performs consistently trip after trip. If you travel for business, take three or more flights a year, or simply appreciate well-designed gear, the Away Carry-On delivers on every front. The lifetime warranty makes the higher price easier to justify over years of use.
Long-Term Value and Warranty
The Away LifetimeCare Coverage is one of the more comprehensive warranty programs in the luggage industry. It covers functional damage caused by manufacturing defects or unexpected rough travel for the life of your suitcase. While some users report handle defects over time, Away handles repairs under this coverage. The polycarbonate shell resists cracks and dents far better than ABS alternatives, meaning the bag stays looking new longer.
2. Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside – Featherweight 5.4 lbs Build
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-On Luggage Spinner, Black, 21-Inch
21-inch Softside
5.4 lbs Lightweight
46L Capacity
Expandable 2-Inch
360 Spinner Wheels
Lifetime Warranty
Pros
- Exceptionally lightweight at only 5.4 pounds
- Massive 46-liter capacity for a carry-on
- Stain-resistant DuraGuard coating repels water and dirt
- PowerScope Lite handle with two height stops
- Eco-friendly interior lining from recycled plastics
- Limited lifetime warranty plus carrier damage coverage
Cons
- Softside offers less impact protection than hardshell
- No USB port or advanced tech features
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 is the bag I recommend most often when someone asks about the best carry-on luggage for everyday travel. At just 5.4 pounds, it is one of the lightest spinner carry-ons on the market. That weight savings translates directly into how much you can pack before hitting airline limits.
During a weekend trip to Denver, I stuffed this bag with 46 liters of gear including a bulky winter jacket, boots, and a full toiletry kit. The expandable zipper added another two inches of depth when I needed it. The stain-resistant polyester with DuraGuard coating shrugged off a coffee spill in the airport without leaving a mark.
The PowerScope Lite handle is a highlight. It extends to two heights, 38 inches and 42.5 inches, so both shorter and taller travelers can find a comfortable pulling position. The 360-degree spinner wheels roll smoothly in any direction, and the bottom tray design adds stability that prevents the tipping problem that plagues cheaper bags.
Reddit’s Buy It For Life community consistently recommends Travelpro Maxlite as the best value softside carry-on. The interior uses recycled plastics with an H2O Guard moisture barrier, which is a nice touch for environmentally conscious travelers. Two exterior pockets provide quick access to documents and electronics without opening the main compartment.
Ideal Traveler Profile
The Maxlite 5 is ideal for budget-conscious frequent travelers who want maximum packing capacity in a lightweight package. If you prioritize weight savings over hardshell protection, or if you travel domestically and need a reliable workhorse, this bag delivers outstanding value. It is especially good for travelers who pack heavy since the 46-liter capacity and expandable design accommodate more than most hardshell carry-ons.
Long-Term Value and Warranty
Travelpro includes Limited Lifetime Coverage plus the Trusted Companion Promise. The Trusted Companion Promise covers repair costs for damage caused by airlines or common carriers for one year after registration. This is significant because airline handling damage is one of the most common ways carry-on luggage gets ruined. The DuraGuard coating and high-strength zippers hold up well over multiple years of regular use.
3. Travelpro Platinum Elite – Business-Ready USB and Suiter
Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Luggage Spinner, True Navy, 21-Inch
21-inch Softside
8.58 lbs
46L Capacity
USB A&C Ports
Drop-in Suiter
Precision Glide System
Pros
- Patented Precision Glide System with magnetic self-aligning 360-degree spinner wheels
- External USB-A and USB-C charging ports with dedicated power bank pocket
- Drop-in suiter keeps formal clothing wrinkle-free
- Removable wet pocket for toiletries
- High-density nylon with DuraGuard coating
- Limited lifetime warranty with carrier damage coverage
Cons
- Premium price point is a significant investment
- Heavier at 8.58 pounds than most competitors
- USB ports require your own external power bank which is not included
The Travelpro Platinum Elite is the carry-on I reach for on business trips. It is packed with features that make professional travel easier, starting with the external USB-A and USB-C charging ports. You plug your own power bank into the dedicated interior pocket, and then charge your phone through the external port without opening the bag. I charged my phone twice during a single layover without digging through my luggage.
The Precision Glide System is the smoothest wheel system I have tested on any softside carry-on. The magnetic self-aligning 360-degree dual spinner wheels literally track straight on their own. The 4-stop PowerScope extension handle with its contoured grip feels solid and ergonomic even when the bag is fully loaded.
The drop-in suiter is what sets this bag apart for business travelers. It includes a removable garment sleeve that keeps a dress shirt or blazer wrinkle-free during transit. The tie-down straps with accessory pockets and the removable quart-size wet pocket round out an interior that is designed for organized, efficient packing.
The high-density nylon exterior with DuraGuard coating resists stains, scuffs, and water. The tapered 2-inch expansion adds packing space while maintaining stability. At 8.58 pounds it is heavier than the Maxlite 5, but the additional features justify the weight for travelers who use them. The bag fits sizer bins for most major US airlines when not expanded.
Ideal Traveler Profile
The Platinum Elite is built for business travelers and frequent flyers who need tech integration and garment protection. If you travel for work, attend conferences, or need to arrive looking polished, the USB ports and drop-in suiter are genuinely useful features. The premium price makes sense for travelers who fly more than ten times per year and want a bag that lasts.
Long-Term Value and Warranty
The Limited Lifetime Coverage plus lifetime Trusted Companion Promise is among the best warranty programs in the industry. Travelpro covers airline damage for the life of the product for the original purchaser, which is longer than the one-year coverage on the Maxlite 5. Reddit users consistently praise Travelpro for honoring warranty claims, and flight attendants frequently recommend the Platinum Elite as their preferred work bag.
4. Samsonite Freeform Hardside – Eight-Wheel Smooth Spinner
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On Luggage with Spinner Wheels – Hardshell Suitcase – TSA, Airline-Approved – Expandable Hard Shell, Smooth Rolling Wheels for Lightweight Travel – Black
23-inch Hardside
6.5 lbs
34L Capacity
Polypropylene Shell
TSA Combination Lock
8 Spinner Wheels
Pros
- Lightweight yet sturdy polypropylene construction
- Smooth 8-spinner wheel system for excellent mobility
- Scratch-resistant textured matte exterior
- TSA-approved combination lock included
- Expandable design for additional packing space
- Thoughtful interior organization with straps divider and pouch
Cons
- May arrive locked with no directions provided
- Slightly heavier than some competitors in its class
The Samsonite Freeform is a mid-range hardshell carry-on that punches above its weight class. The polypropylene shell offers a good balance of flexibility and impact resistance. With 8 spinner wheels instead of the typical 4, the Freeform rolls with noticeably less effort than four-wheel competitors, especially on carpeted airport terminals.
I took the Freeform on a four-day trip and appreciated how the textured matte exterior hid scuffs and scratches from baggage handling. The TSA-approved combination lock is integrated into the zipper system. The interior features elastic straps, a divider, and a pouch that keep everything organized and prevent shifting during transit.
The expandable design adds about an inch of depth when you need it for souvenirs or extra clothing. The case dimensions of 20.5 by 14.5 by 10 inches meet the cabin size restrictions for most airlines. At 6.5 pounds, it falls in the middle of the hardshell carry-on weight range.
One thing to note: several reviewers report the suitcase arriving locked with the combination set to a random number and no instructions included. You can usually find the default code in the Samsonite FAQ or contact customer service. Once unlocked and reset, the lock functions smoothly.
Ideal Traveler Profile
The Samsonite Freeform is an excellent choice for travelers who want a durable hardshell carry-on from a trusted brand without paying premium prices. It suits infrequent to moderate travelers who prioritize scratch resistance and smooth wheels over advanced features. If you want brand-name reliability and a ten-year warranty from a company with decades of luggage expertise, the Freeform is a solid pick.
Long-Term Value and Warranty
Samsonite backs the Freeform with a 10-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. The polypropylene shell is more flexible than rigid polycarbonate, which helps it absorb impacts without cracking. With nearly 19,000 customer reviews and a 4.3-star average, the Freeform has proven its durability across thousands of real-world trips. The scratch-resistant texture keeps the bag looking newer for longer compared to glossy finishes.
5. Samsonite Omni PC Hardside – Scratch-Resistant Polycarbonate
Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Teal, Carry-On 20-Inch
20-inch Hardside
6.1 lbs
Micro-Diamond Polycarbonate
TSA Lock
4 Spinner Wheels
10-Year Warranty
Pros
- Extremely scratch-resistant micro-diamond polycarbonate texture
- Side-mounted TSA locks deter theft
- Four oversized multi-directional spinner wheels
- Re-engineered lightweight design at 6.1 pounds
- 10-year limited warranty from Samsonite
- Available in multiple vibrant colors
Cons
- Zipper-only closure with no latch backup
- May show marks from rough airport handling
- Some reports of zipper separation over extended time
The Samsonite Omni PC is one of the most popular hardshell carry-ons on Amazon, and after testing it I understand why. The micro-diamond polycarbonate texture is genuinely scratch-resistant. After multiple trips through airports and car trunks, the shell still looks close to new. The 6.1-pound weight makes it easy to lift into overhead bins without straining.
The packing dimensions of 19 by 14.5 by 9.5 inches give you solid interior space for a 20-inch carry-on. The side-mounted TSA locks provide security without needing a separate padlock. The four oversized spinner wheels roll smoothly and quietly, handling curbs and carpet with ease.
I appreciate the color variety on the Omni PC. The teal finish stands out on the baggage carousel or in an overhead bin, making it easy to identify. The interior has cross straps and a modesty pocket for basic organization, though it lacks the compression systems found on more premium options.
With over 30,000 reviews and a 4.4-star average, the Omni PC has a massive track record of customer satisfaction. The main concern reported by long-term users is zipper durability over years of heavy use. For the price point, the overall build quality and scratch resistance make this one of the best values in polycarbonate carry-on luggage.
Ideal Traveler Profile
The Omni PC is ideal for travelers who want a recognizable brand-name polycarbonate carry-on at an accessible price. It suits leisure travelers, occasional business travelers, and anyone who wants a colorful, scratch-resistant bag that stands out. If you prioritize durability and brand reputation over advanced features like USB ports or compression systems, the Omni PC delivers excellent value.
Long-Term Value and Warranty
The 10-year limited warranty from Samsonite covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. The micro-diamond polycarbonate texture is specifically engineered to resist the scuffs and scratches that accumulate from normal travel. With one of the highest review counts in the carry-on category at over 30,000 ratings, the Omni PC has demonstrated consistent quality over years of production. The main long-term concern is zipper wear, which Samsonite addresses under warranty for manufacturing defects.
6. LEVEL8 Grace Carry-On – Front Laptop Compartment
LEVEL8 Carry on Luggage Airline Approved, 20“ Expandable Carry on Suitcase
20-inch Expandable Hardside
9 lbs
PC+ABS Shell
Front Laptop Compartment
8 Spinner Wheels
Combination Lock
Pros
- Front laptop compartment fits laptops up to 15.6 inches for easy airport security access
- Expandable design provides extra packing capacity when needed
- 8 rubber-covered 360-degree spinner wheels for quiet rolling
- 3-layer micro-diamond textured shell for scratch resistance
- Ergonomic aluminum telescopic handle
- Combination lock for security
Cons
- Not Prime eligible on Amazon
- Heavier than most alternatives at 9 pounds
- Uses combination lock rather than TSA key lock
The LEVEL8 Grace caught my attention because of its front laptop compartment, a feature usually found on bags costing twice as much. Being able to remove your laptop at TSA security without opening the main compartment is a genuine time-saver. The compartment fits laptops up to 15.6 inches and has its own dedicated zipper access.
The 3-layer micro-diamond textured shell combines polycarbonate and ABS for a balance of durability and weight savings. The shell resists scratches well, though at 9 pounds the Grace is the heaviest carry-on in this roundup. The eight rubber-covered spinner wheels are notably quiet on hard surfaces, rolling with minimal noise compared to standard hard plastic wheels.
The expandable design adds roughly an inch of depth when you need extra packing space. The interior has a reasonable organization system with straps and a divider. The ergonomic aluminum telescopic handle extends and retracts smoothly, and the grip feels comfortable during long walks through terminals.
The combination lock provides basic security, though it is worth noting it is not a TSA key lock. This means TSA agents may need to cut the zipper if they need to inspect your bag and you have it locked. With 77% five-star ratings across over 6,000 reviews, most users are happy with the build quality and the laptop compartment feature.
Ideal Traveler Profile
The LEVEL8 Grace is perfect for digital nomads, business travelers, and anyone who travels with a laptop they need quick access to. The front laptop compartment eliminates the hassle of digging through your bag at security checkpoints. If you prioritize organization and easy device access over having the lightest possible bag, the Grace is a smart choice despite its 9-pound weight.
Long-Term Value and Warranty
The PC+ABS construction offers decent durability for the price point, though it will not match the longevity of a pure polycarbonate shell like the Away. The rubber-covered wheels are a thoughtful touch that reduces noise and may improve longevity since the rubber absorbs some of the impact from rough surfaces. The main concern for long-term value is the combination lock, which is not TSA-approved. For domestic travel within the US, this is rarely an issue, but international travelers may prefer a TSA key lock.
7. Amazon Basics 21-inch Hardside – Expandable ABS Budget Option
Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-On Luggage with Multi-directional Wheels, Expandable for Up to 25% More Space, Scratch-Resistant Surface, Organized Interior, Navy Blue
21-inch Hardside
ABS Shell
34L Capacity
Expandable 25 Percent
4 Spinner Wheels
No Lock
Pros
- Incredibly affordable budget price point
- Expandable design adds up to 25 percent more packing space
- Scratch-resistant extra-thick hard shell
- Four multi-directional spinner wheels
- Organized interior with divider and three zippered pockets
- Water-resistant exterior finish
Cons
- No built-in lock included
- ABS material is less durable than polycarbonate alternatives
The Amazon Basics 21-inch Hardside is the best carry-on luggage for travelers on a strict budget. With nearly 59,000 customer reviews and a 4.4-star average, it has proven itself as the most popular budget hardshell carry-on on Amazon. The ABS shell is extra-thick with a scratch-resistant finish that holds up better than you might expect at this price point.
I tested this bag on a three-day trip and was genuinely impressed by how much it holds. The expandable zipper adds up to 25% more packing space, which is a larger expansion than most competitors offer. The interior divider and three zippered pockets keep contents organized, and the four multi-directional spinner wheels roll adequately on smooth surfaces.
The telescoping handle extends and locks at a comfortable height for most travelers. There is also a short lift handle for grabbing the bag from overhead bins. The water-resistant exterior finish provides some protection against light rain, though the seams are not fully sealed.
The main trade-off is the ABS material, which is less impact-resistant than polycarbonate. Reddit users note that budget ABS luggage tends to crack under rough handling over time. There is also no built-in lock, so you will need to bring a separate TSA-approved padlock if you want to secure the zippers.
Ideal Traveler Profile
The Amazon Basics Hardside is ideal for infrequent travelers, students, or anyone who needs a functional carry-on without spending much. If you fly once or twice a year for leisure and want a bag that does the job reliably, this is the most cost-effective option in our roundup. It is also a good choice as a backup bag or for children traveling with the family.
Long-Term Value and Warranty
At this price point, the Amazon Basics carry-on offers exceptional value for occasional travelers. The ABS shell will show wear faster than polycarbonate, and the wheels may not last as long under heavy use. However, with 74% five-star ratings across nearly 59,000 reviews, the overwhelming majority of buyers are satisfied with their purchase. Amazon Basics offers a standard return policy, though there is no lifetime warranty like premium brands offer. For the price, most users consider this a disposable-but-durable option that lasts several years of light travel.
8. Travelers Club Chicago Hardside – Ultra-Low Entry Price Spinner
Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage, Teal, 22″ Carry-On
22-inch Hardside
ABS Shell
Expandable
4 Spinner Wheels
Pad Lock
Multiple Set Options
Pros
- Lowest price point in the roundup
- Durable ABS hardside construction
- Expandable design for extra packing capacity
- Smooth 360-degree spinner wheels
- Push-button telescoping handle
- Available as 1-piece 3-piece or 5-piece sets
Cons
- Pad lock is not TSA-approved
- ABS material less durable than polycarbonate
- Not water resistant
- Lower 5-star rating percentage at 70 percent
The Travelers Club Chicago Hardside is the most affordable spinner carry-on in this roundup. With nearly 38,000 reviews and a 4.3-star average, it is a popular choice for travelers who need a functional bag at the lowest possible price. The ABS hardside construction provides basic protection at a fraction of what premium bags cost.
The expandable design adds extra packing capacity when you need it, and the four multi-directional spinner wheels allow 360-degree movement. The push-button telescoping handle extends and retracts with a simple click. The bag is available as a standalone piece or as part of 3-piece and 5-piece luggage sets, which can be useful if you need multiple sizes.
The interior has a basic organization system with straps and a divider. The ABS shell is lightweight, weighing about 5.6 pounds, which is reasonable for a hardshell carry-on. The teal color option stands out for easy identification on baggage carousels and in overhead bins.
The trade-offs are clear at this price. The included pad lock is not TSA-approved, meaning TSA agents may cut it off during inspections. The bag is not water-resistant, so contents could get wet in heavy rain. ABS material is the least durable shell type and may crack or show significant wear after rough handling.
Ideal Traveler Profile
The Travelers Club Chicago is designed for budget travelers, students, and occasional flyers who need a basic functional carry-on at the lowest price. If you travel rarely, need a bag for a single trip, or want a set of luggage for the whole family without spending a fortune, this is the most economical option. It is also a reasonable choice for road trips where airline handling is not a concern.
Long-Term Value and Warranty
At this price point, expectations should be calibrated accordingly. The ABS shell, non-TSA pad lock, and lack of water resistance mean this bag will not match the longevity of more expensive options. However, with 70% five-star ratings across nearly 38,000 reviews, most buyers feel they got their money’s worth. The bag typically lasts several years of light use, making it a practical choice for travelers who fly occasionally rather than weekly. The multiple set options also offer value if you need checked bags alongside your carry-on.
How to Choose the Best Carry-On Luggage
Choosing the right carry-on luggage comes down to matching features to your travel style. After testing eight suitcases and researching what real travelers care about on forums like Reddit’s Buy It For Life and TravelHacks communities, I identified the factors that matter most.
Hardshell vs Softside: Which Is Better
The hardshell vs softside debate has no universal winner. Hardshell suitcases made from polycarbonate or ABS offer superior protection for fragile items and resist water better. They maintain their shape and look newer longer, especially with scratch-resistant textures. Softside bags made from polyester or nylon are typically lighter, more flexible for squeezing into tight spaces, and offer exterior pockets for quick access to documents and electronics.
If you pack fragile items, travel to rainy destinations, or want maximum protection, hardshell is the better choice. If you prioritize weight savings, need exterior pockets, or want a bag that can compress slightly to fit challenging overhead bins, softside wins. Frequent business travelers often prefer softside bags like the Travelpro Platinum Elite for the organizational features, while leisure travelers tend to favor hardshell options like the Away or Samsonite Omni PC for durability and style.
Size and Airline Compatibility
Most US airlines allow carry-on luggage up to 22 by 14 by 9 inches, including handles and wheels. International carriers often have stricter limits, sometimes requiring bags under 21.5 by 15.5 by 7.5 inches. Before buying, check your most-flown airline’s specific carry-on size requirements.
All eight bags in this roundup meet the standard US carry-on size limits. The Amazon Basics and Travelers Club options are the most compact. The Samsonite Freeform at 15.3 by 9.8 by 23 inches is at the upper boundary, so verify compatibility if you fly smaller regional jets frequently. A bag that is even 2 inches too large may need to be gate-checked, which defeats the purpose of carry-on travel.
Weight Considerations
Every pound your empty bag weighs is a pound less you can pack. Airlines do not typically weigh carry-on luggage in the US, but international carriers sometimes do, with limits as low as 15 pounds total. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 at 5.4 pounds is the lightest spinner carry-on in this roundup, followed by the Samsonite Omni PC at 6.1 pounds.
Heavier bags like the LEVEL8 Grace at 9 pounds or the Travelpro Platinum Elite at 8.58 pounds trade weight savings for features like laptop compartments and USB ports. Consider how often you lift your bag into overhead bins or carry it up stairs. If you struggle with lifting or have physical limitations, prioritize lighter options.
Wheel Quality and Maneuverability
Wheels are the most common failure point on luggage. Cheap wheels break, wobble, or seize up after months of use, which is the top complaint on Reddit’s travel forums. Spinner wheels that rotate 360 degrees allow you to push the bag in any direction, while roller wheels only move forward and backward.
The number of wheels matters too. The Samsonite Freeform and LEVEL8 Grace use 8-wheel systems that distribute weight more evenly and roll more smoothly than standard 4-wheel designs. The Away’s WhisperGlide wheels and Travelpro’s Precision Glide System represent the premium end of wheel engineering, with magnetic self-aligning technology that keeps the bag tracking straight.
Warranty and Brand Reputation
A warranty tells you how much confidence a brand has in its product. The Away LifetimeCare Coverage and Travelpro’s Limited Lifetime Coverage with Trusted Companion Promise are the most comprehensive programs in this roundup. Samsonite offers a 10-year limited warranty on both the Freeform and Omni PC.
The Buy It For Life community values brands that honor their warranties without hassle. Travelpro and Samsonite have strong reputations for processing warranty claims. Budget brands like Amazon Basics and Travelers Club offer limited or standard return policies rather than long-term warranty coverage, which reflects their lower price points.
Locks and Security Features
TSA-approved locks allow security agents to open your bag for inspection without damaging the lock. The Away, Samsonite Freeform, Samsonite Omni PC, and Travelpro Platinum Elite all include built-in TSA-approved combination locks. The LEVEL8 Grace uses a combination lock that is not TSA-approved, and the Amazon Basics and Travelers Club bags do not include locks at all.
If you fly domestically in the US, any lock will work since TSA inspections of carry-on bags are less common. For international travel, TSA-approved locks are strongly recommended to avoid having your lock cut. You can always add a separate TSA-approved padlock to bags without built-in locks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hard or soft luggage better for carry-on?
Hardshell luggage offers better protection for fragile items and resists water, while softside luggage is typically lighter and offers exterior pockets for quick access. Hardshell is ideal if you pack breakables or travel to wet climates. Softside is better if you prioritize weight savings, organizational pockets, and flexibility for fitting into tight overhead bins.
What is the best carry-on bag for flying?
The Away Carry-On is our top pick for most travelers due to its polycarbonate shell, smooth WhisperGlide wheels, interior compression system, and lifetime warranty. For budget-conscious flyers, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 offers the best value at just 5.4 pounds with 46 liters of capacity and 360-degree spinner wheels.
Is a 23 inch carry-on too big?
Most US airlines allow carry-on luggage up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches including wheels and handles. A 23-inch bag may exceed some airlines’ limits and could be required to be gate-checked. Always check your specific airline’s carry-on size policy before flying, as regional jets and international carriers often have stricter dimensions.
What luggage do flight attendants recommend?
Flight attendants frequently recommend Travelpro luggage, particularly the Platinum Elite and Maxlite lines, for their durability, smooth-rolling wheels, and professional features. The Travelpro Platinum Elite is especially popular among cabin crew for its Precision Glide System, USB charging ports, and lifetime warranty with carrier damage coverage.
What is the most highly rated carry-on luggage?
The Away Carry-On has the highest rating in our roundup at 4.6 out of 5 stars. The Samsonite Omni PC and Amazon Basics Hardside both have 4.4-star averages with over 30,000 and 58,000 reviews respectively, making them the most reviewed and consistently rated budget-friendly options.
Final Thoughts on the Best Carry-On Luggage
After testing all eight suitcases, the Away Carry-On stands out as the best overall pick for most travelers. Its polycarbonate shell, WhisperGlide wheels, compression system, and lifetime warranty justify the premium price for anyone who flies regularly. For budget-conscious travelers, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 delivers outstanding value with its 5.4-pound weight and 46-liter capacity.
Business travelers should seriously consider the Travelpro Platinum Elite for its USB ports and drop-in suiter. If you need a hardshell on a tight budget, the Samsonite Omni PC and Amazon Basics Hardside both offer solid performance at accessible prices. The best carry-on luggage for you depends on how often you fly, what you pack, and which features matter most to your travel routine.
Whatever you choose, investing in quality carry-on luggage pays dividends every time you skip the baggage claim line. Here is to simpler, smarter travel in 2026.