Top 10 Carry-On Luggage
Frequent Flyers Swear By These Top Carry-On Suitcases
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Traveling is all about the journey, but let’s be honest—packing can be a challenge. That’s why having a high-quality carry-on is essential. Whether you're jetting off on a quick weekend getaway or heading cross-country for work, the right suitcase can make all the difference. But with so many options on the market, finding one that’s both functional and stylish isn’t always easy.
That’s where we come in. We’ve rounded up the best carry-on suitcases to help take the guesswork out of your search. From sleek hardshell designs to soft-sided bags with extra compartments, these top picks combine durability, convenience, and ease of movement—so you can breeze through airports and beyond.
What To Look For In A Carry-On Suitcase
Now, not all carry-ons are created equal, so before you shop, here are a few key features to keep in mind:
—Hard vs. Soft Exterior: Hardshell suitcases provide extra protection for fragile items, while soft-sided options offer more flexibility and extra pockets. If you tend to come back from trips with more than you left with, an expandable soft case might be the way to go.
—Wheels Matter: Two-wheeled suitcases (also known as rollers) work well for rougher surfaces, while four-wheeled spinners glide smoothly in any direction—ideal for navigating crowded airports.
—Size & Weight Restrictions: Most major airlines allow carry-ons up to 22" x 14" x 9", including wheels and handles. Weight limits vary, but to stay within regulations, experts recommend choosing a bag that weighs 7.5 pounds or less when empty.
How To Choose The Right Carry-On
Finding the perfect carry-on starts with understanding your travel style:
—Frequent Travelers: If you’re constantly on the go, look for a durable, lightweight suitcase with smooth-rolling wheels and a sturdy handle.
—Business Travelers: A carry-on with organized compartments and a sleek design will keep your essentials tidy and professional.
—Vacationers: A stylish, compact suitcase with just the right amount of space is perfect for quick getaways.
Why Travelers Love These Carry-Ons
Whether you’re after a lightweight option, a bag that effortlessly fits in an overhead bin, or a suitcase with ultra-smooth wheels, the carry-ons on this list are traveler-approved. These picks have been rated, reviewed, and loved by frequent flyers and casual travelers alike, so you can shop with confidence.
How We Found The Best Carry-On Suitcases
At Rank & Style, we do the research so you don’t have to. Our data-driven algorithm analyzes product reviews, social media buzz, and industry reports to bring you the best of the best—no bias, just real recommendations.
So, if you’re planning your next trip and need a reliable carry-on that won’t let you down, keep scrolling. The 10 top-rated suitcases ahead will make packing (and traveling) easier than ever.
All products and deals are sourced by the Rank & Style team using data and expert insights. If you shop through our links, we may earn a commission—at no extra cost to you.
Jump To ProductsThe Rankings
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry On Luggage
Overall Score
4.55
10
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry On Luggage
4.5
13374 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Soft-Sided Carry-On Luggage
DEFINING DETAILS
This carry-on bag is ultra-lightweight and meets the carry-on size restrictions for most domestic airlines. It's designed with H2O Guard, which protects the interior lining from moisture. Although soft-sided, it also features a unique bottom tray design that increases its durability.
NEED TO KNOW
With a low-profile carrying handle, full-length interior lid pocket, and side accessory pocket, this carry-on will make packing for quick work trips and weekend getaways a breeze.
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Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside Carry-On Luggage
Overall Score
4.55
09
Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside Carry-On Luggage
4.5
51289 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Carry-On Luggage on Amazon
DEFINING DETAILS
If you're seeking an affordable yet durable carry-on, this is a popular choice on Amazon. It includes an expandable design, scratch-resistant finish, and 20" spinners, catering to both domestic and international travel needs.
PROMISING REVIEW
"This suitcase is great! I needed to test it out before I wrote a review. I just got back from my honeymoon in Greece. We went to Santorini and wow this thing did great! If you know the layout or have been to Greece before, you know that the roads are mainly stone and uneven, super bumpy if you will! The wheels on this suitcase took it like a champ and did not break or anything! I was impressed since the landscape is so different there. The suitcase itself is great, tons of space, this thing is huge! Like so big, definitely need to check it in for a flight. Overall, cost was great and it did the job!"
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Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable With Double Spinner Wheels
Overall Score
4.6
08
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable With Double Spinner Wheels
4.42
21296 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Durable Carry-On Luggage
DEFINING DETAILS
With a hard shell, durable exterior, and double-spinner wheels, this suitcase makes quick trips a breeze. It's also expandable, meaning you'll have some extra room should you do a little shopping while you're away.
NEED TO KNOW
This carry-on roller bag is designed with cross ribbons and a divider to make organized packing simple. And thanks to the multiple pockets, your belongings will always stay right where you want them.
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Paravel Aviator Carry-On
Overall Score
4.6
07
Paravel Aviator Carry-On
4.88
475 User Reviews
2.8
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Sustainable Carry-On Luggage
DEFINING DETAILS
Paravel's Aviator Carry-On Suitcase is engineered for a smooth ride on any terrain. Thanks to 360-degree rotating wheels and an advanced dual design, you won't run into any hiccups with this bag.
PROMISING REVIEW
"This is a perfect size and designed so well. I love that it's made using sustainable materials and still looks and feels so so good! Happy traveler right here!"
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Eco Friendly
Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Luggage
Overall Score
4.6
06
Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Luggage
4.9
380 User Reviews
2.8
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Stylish Carry-On Luggage
DEFINING DETAILS
Calpack's Ambeur Carry-On Luggage is a sleek suitcase that comes with a zippered divider to create two separate packing compartments. It also has an expansion sleeve that unzips to increase the packing capacity and is fitted with four multidirectional spinner wheels that make navigating the airport a breeze. Plus, the metallic color options give it the look of aluminum for way less.
PROMISING REVIEW
"I LOVE my Calpak. I traveled to four different countries in Europe with this carry-on for two weeks and overpacked, and I still had some room to stuff my souvenirs."
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Quince Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase
Overall Score
4.6
05
Quince Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase
4.9
1166 User Reviews
3.1
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Affordable Carry-On Luggage
DEFINING DETAILS
With a minimalist aesthetic, durable construction, and high-end features at a direct-to-consumer price, this suitcase delivers premium quality without the markup.
PROMISING REVIEW
"The luggage is exactly what I hoped it would be. Exceptional quality & design, the wheels move smoothly, the color (blue) is prettier than it shows on my PC. I have seen lots of positive posts on line - and after this purchase - I can’t wait to buy other fine goods from Quince!"
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Monos Carry-On
Overall Score
4.65
04
Monos Carry-On
4.9
3093 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Minimalist Carry-On Luggage
DEFINING DETAILS
Don't expect this baby to fail you—it's made with an unbreakable polycarbonate shell and an ultra-sturdy telescopic handle, plus a TSA-approved lock and whisper-quiet wheels. Even better? The gorgeous colors it comes in (think olive green, rose quartz, and blue haze).
NEED TO KNOW
When you’re not traveling, this carry-on suitcase nests inside any of the brand's check-in sizes for easy storage.
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July Carry On
Overall Score
4.65
03
July Carry On
4.9
2759 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Lightweight Carry-On Luggage
DEFINING DETAILS
Aside from the super lightweight design, there are so many reasons to love this gorgeous carry-on. To name a few, it can charge both your phone and laptop, comes with 60-degree spinner wheels, and it's customizable.
NEED TO KNOW
The personalization options available for this carry-on suitcase are endless—you can choose from tons of different fonts and colors.
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Beis The Carry-On Roller
Overall Score
5
02
Beis The Carry-On Roller
4.9
16735 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Compressive Carry-On Luggage
DEFINING DETAILS
As beautiful as it is functional, Beis' Carry-On Roller Suitcase is built with 360° wheels, a cushioned trolley handle, and an expanding storage compartment (perfect for all of your souvenirs). Not to mention, with colors like beige, pink, and maple to choose from, they've managed to make carry-on luggage cute.
PROMISING REVIEW
"This is a wonderful carry-on bag. It has so many features I never even thought of. Brought it on a four-day trip across the country, and it held everything I needed and then some. Paired so well with my Béis everyday bag for traveling. Will probably buy a set of them if they all have this many features."
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Away The Bigger Carry-On
Overall Score
5
01
Away The Bigger Carry-On
4.6
37306 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Carry-On Luggage Overall
DEFINING DETAILS
Away's Bigger Carry-On is a best-selling, perfectly-sized bag no matter your traveling plans. Built for convenience, its design includes an ejectable USB charger, 360° spinner wheels, and a durable hard shell exterior.
PROMISING REVIEW
"I absolutely love this piece. It’s lightweight, fits perfectly in the overhead compartment of an airplane, and especially the battery charger! What a game-changer it is to not need to search for electrical outlets at an airport."
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