Fall and holiday travel means crowded airports, tight connections, and the constant worry about checked luggage getting lost. A reliable carry-on suitcase can turn stressful trips into smooth journeys, keeping your belongings close and your plans on track. We tested dozens of popular carry-ons to find the best options for every type of traveler and budget, from sleek hardshells to flexible soft-sided bags.
1. Monos Carry-On Pro
Hardshell luggage doesn’t get much better than this. The Monos Carry-On Pro consistently earns top marks from travel experts for its combination of durability, smart interior layout, and eye-catching style. Built with strong polycarbonate material, it can handle rough baggage handlers without showing scratches easily.
Inside, you’ll find compression straps and zippered dividers that keep your clothes organized during bumpy flights. The smooth-rolling wheels make navigating busy terminals feel effortless. One small downside is the limited external pocket space, so quick-access items need careful planning.
For travelers who value both protection and presentation, this suitcase delivers consistently solid performance trip after trip.
2. Away The Carry-On / Away The Carry-On Flex
Away built its reputation on creating luggage that looks good and works even better. Their classic Carry-On features a thoughtful design with a built-in compression system and smooth 360-degree wheels. The Flex version adds expandable capability, giving you extra packing room when you need it most.
Travel editors love the integrated organization and the lifetime warranty that comes with each bag. The ejectable battery option (in certain models) keeps your devices charged during long layovers.
Just remember that expanding the Flex to full capacity might push you over some airline size limits, so measure before you head to the gate. Otherwise, it’s a fantastic all-around performer for frequent flyers.
3. TravelPro Platinum Elite 21-Inch Carry-On Spinner
Flight crews know luggage, and many of them choose TravelPro for good reason. The Platinum Elite strikes an excellent balance between structured support and flexible packing. Its soft-sided construction allows you to squeeze in one more sweater without breaking a zipper.
Multiple exterior pockets give you quick access to travel documents, snacks, or electronics during security checks. The PowerScope handle extends smoothly and locks firmly at different heights for comfortable rolling.
Soft sides do mean the exterior fabric can show wear faster than hardshells, especially after dozens of trips. Still, for travelers who prioritize organization and versatility over absolute protection, this spinner consistently delivers reliable performance season after season.
4. Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller
Not all travel happens on smooth airport floors. Topo Designs created this roller for adventurers who need a bag that handles both terminal hallways and bumpy city streets. The oversized wheels and reinforced construction mean you can roll confidently over uneven surfaces without worrying about damage.
Inside, the organizational system rivals the best backpacks, with multiple compartments and compression straps keeping gear secure. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the tough materials that resist weather and rough handling.
The trade-off comes in aesthetics—this bag looks more utilitarian than fashionable, which might not suit business travelers seeking polished style. For those prioritizing function and durability over sleek design, though, it’s an outstanding choice.
5. TravelPro Maxlite 5 22-Inch Expandable Spinner
Budget-conscious travelers don’t have to sacrifice quality. The Maxlite 5 proves you can get a trustworthy carry-on without spending premium prices. Weighing just over five pounds when empty, it leaves more room in your weight allowance for actual belongings.
The expandable design adds two extra inches of packing space when needed, perfect for bringing home souvenirs. Smooth-rolling wheels and a comfortable handle make airport navigation easy even during long connections.
You won’t find luxury touches like leather accents or lifetime warranties here, but the practical construction and reliable performance make it a smart pick for occasional travelers or anyone watching their budget carefully. Sometimes simple and functional beats fancy features.
6. Carl Friedrik The Carry-On
Some travelers view luggage as a fashion statement, not just a functional necessity. Carl Friedrik designed this carry-on for people who appreciate fine craftsmanship and distinctive style. Leather corner guards and accent straps give it a sophisticated appearance that stands out in baggage claim.
The attention to detail extends beyond looks—the interior features thoughtful organization and quality materials throughout. Tech reviewers particularly praise the smooth operation and premium feel of every component.
Expect to pay significantly more than mainstream options, and those leather elements require occasional conditioning to maintain their appearance. For travelers who value exceptional design and don’t mind the extra investment, this suitcase makes every trip feel more luxurious.
7. Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner
Everyone deserves reliable luggage, regardless of budget. The Rockland Melbourne offers hardshell protection and expandable capacity at a price that won’t strain your wallet. It includes the basics that matter most: four spinner wheels, a telescoping handle, and decent interior space.
Budget reviewers consistently recommend it as a solid value pick for occasional travelers or students. The expandable feature gives flexibility when packing varies between trips.
Don’t expect the same long-term durability as premium brands—the materials and construction reflect the lower price point. Handles and wheels may wear faster with heavy use. Still, for infrequent flyers or anyone needing an affordable backup bag, it provides reasonable performance without breaking the bank on your travel budget.
8. Calpak Luka Soft-Sided Carry-On
Flexibility matters when you’re trying to fit one more item into overhead bins. Calpak’s Luka embraces the advantages of soft-sided construction while maintaining enough structure to protect your belongings. Fashion editors highlighted it as a standout soft-side option for 2025 travel.
Multiple exterior pockets provide easy access to essentials like chargers, headphones, or travel documents during your journey. The soft material allows some give when squeezing into tight spaces.
That flexibility comes with a trade-off—soft sides offer less protection against crushing pressure from heavy bags stacked on top. If you’re checking it as a gate-check item, fragile contents need extra padding. For carry-on use with smart packing, though, it offers practical versatility many travelers appreciate.
9. Amazon Basics Hard-Shell Carry-On
Sometimes the best choice is the straightforward one. Amazon Basics created a no-frills hardshell carry-on that handles the essentials competently without fancy features or premium pricing. Travel testers found it performed surprisingly well for occasional trips and vacation travel.
The hardshell construction protects contents from bumps and weather, while the four-wheel spinner design rolls smoothly through terminals. Basic interior organization keeps clothes separated during travel.
You won’t get luxury finishes, extended warranties, or standout style here—and that’s perfectly fine for many travelers. If you fly a few times yearly and need reliable protection without spending heavily, this straightforward option delivers honest value. Not every trip requires premium luggage to be successful and stress-free.
10. Halfday Carry-On Garment Roller
Weddings, business meetings, and formal events create a packing challenge: how do you transport dress clothes without wrinkles? Halfday solved this problem by combining a traditional roller with integrated garment bag features. One side holds your suits, dresses, or formal wear hanging flat, while the other provides standard packing space.
Travel experts praise this innovative design for keeping professional attire crisp and ready to wear immediately upon arrival. The wheels and handle system work like conventional carry-ons.
The specialized design means less room for bulky items like shoes or jackets compared to traditional suitcases. It’s a purpose-built tool for specific travel needs rather than an everyday bag. For frequent business travelers or anyone attending special events, though, it solves wrinkle worries brilliantly.
