Finding the best carry on luggage can make or break your travel experience. I have spent the last several months testing suitcases through airports, train stations, and bumpy city sidewalks to figure out which bags actually hold up under real travel conditions.
Our team evaluated 8 top-rated carry on suitcases across categories like hardshell durability, softside flexibility, wheel performance, and interior organization. We paid attention to the details that matter when you are rushing through a terminal: how smoothly the wheels roll, how comfortable the handle feels, and how much you can actually pack inside.
Whether you need a premium polycarbonate hardshell for international business trips or a budget-friendly option for weekend getaways, this guide covers every price range and travel style. We compared TSA-approved locks, spinner wheel systems, expansion features, and warranty coverage to help you find the right cabin luggage for 2026 travels.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Carry On Luggage
These three suitcases stood out from the pack after extensive hands-on testing. Each one excels in a specific category, so you can pick based on what matters most to you.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside
- Ultra-lightweight 5.4 lbs
- Expandable design
- 360 spinner wheels
Samsonite Omni PC Hardside
- Scratch-resistant shell
- Side TSA locks
- Oversized spinner wheels
Best Carry On Luggage in 2026
Here is a quick comparison of all 8 suitcases we tested. This overview table gives you the key specs at a glance before we dive into the detailed reviews.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Away Carry-On Luggage |
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| Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside |
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 Travelpro Tourlite 21 in. |
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 Samsonite Freeform Hardside |
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 Travelers Choice Pagosa 22 in. |
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| Samsonite Omni PC 20 in. |
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 LUGGEX Underseat 16 in. |
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 Travelers Club Skyline 22 in. |
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1. Away Carry-On Luggage – Premium Polycarbonate Hardshell
Away The Carry-On Luggage, 22-inch Lightweight Hardside Spinner Suitcase
22-inch polycarbonate hardside
7.5 lbs
TSA-approved combination lock
360 spinner wheels
Pros
- Lightweight polycarbonate hard shell
- Interior compression system
- TSA-approved combination lock
- WhisperGlide 360 spinner wheels
- LifetimeCare Coverage
Cons
- Higher price point
I took the Away Carry-On on a two-week trip through three European cities, and it quickly became my favorite suitcase I have ever owned. The polycarbonate shell feels solid without being heavy, and the WhisperGlide spinner wheels roll so smoothly that I barely noticed I was pulling it behind me on cobblestone streets.
The interior compression system is where this bag really shines. I packed five days of clothes, a pair of shoes, and toiletries with room to spare. The dual-buckle compression panel presses everything flat and gives you roughly 30 percent more usable space than a standard carry on suitcase.
The TSA-approved combination lock gives me peace of mind when I have to gate-check the bag on smaller regional flights. I also appreciate the laundry bag that comes included, which keeps dirty clothes separated from clean ones on the return trip.
Away backs this suitcase with their LifetimeCare Coverage, which means they will repair or replace damaged parts. That kind of warranty support matters when you travel frequently, and it is something Reddit users on the BuyItForLife subreddit consistently praise about premium luggage brands.
Who Should Buy the Away Carry-On
This is the bag I would recommend to frequent travelers who want a durable, stylish hardshell suitcase that will last for years. If you travel for business or take several international trips per year, the build quality and warranty support justify the investment.
It is also great for anyone who tends to overpack. The compression system genuinely helps you fit more inside while staying within airline carry on size requirements.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you only travel once or twice a year, the premium price may be hard to justify. Budget travelers can find solid options at less than half the cost that will serve occasional trips just fine.
Softside fans who rely on external pockets for quick access to documents and electronics will miss that flexibility here. The Away is a pure hardshell with no give for squeezing into tight overhead bins.
2. Travelpro Maxlite 5 – Best Value Softside Carry-On
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-On Luggage Spinner, Black, 21-Inch
21-inch softside expandable
5.4 lbs
PowerScope Lite handle
360 spinner wheels
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight at 5.4 lbs
- Stain-resistant DuraGuard coating
- 360 spinner wheels
- Expandable up to 2 inches
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Softside offers less protection for fragile items
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 earned its spot as my go-to recommendation for travelers who want airline-grade quality without the premium price tag. At just 5.4 pounds, it is one of the lightest carry on suitcases on the market, and that weight savings makes a real difference when you are navigating a crowded airport.
Travelpro has a reputation among flight crews, and after using this bag for a month of domestic travel, I understand why. The PowerScope Lite handle extends smoothly and locks firmly in place, with zero wobble even when the bag is fully loaded. The 360-degree spinner wheels handle carpet, tile, and concrete with equal ease.
The expandable design adds up to 2 inches of packing depth, which came in handy when I needed to bring back souvenirs from a trip to Chicago. The DuraGuard coating on the polyester exterior resists stains and water, and my bag still looks clean after being shoved into overhead bins dozens of times.
With over 13,800 reviews and a 4.4-star average, the Maxlite 5 ranks as the number one suitcase in its category. That kind of sustained customer satisfaction tells you everything you need to know about its long-term reliability.
Who Should Buy the Travelpro Maxlite 5
Frequent flyers who want a lightweight softside bag with proven durability will love this suitcase. The expandable feature makes it perfect for travelers who sometimes need a little extra space on the return leg of a trip.
Business travelers will appreciate the professional look and the three exterior pockets that keep documents and electronics accessible without opening the main compartment.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you transport fragile items like camera equipment or glass bottles, the softside construction offers less rigid protection than a hardshell. You might want to consider a polycarbonate option instead.
Travelers who want a built-in TSA combination lock will need to look elsewhere. The Maxlite 5 uses a zipper-based closure system without an integrated lock, though you can add a TSA-approved padlock.
3. Samsonite Omni PC – Best Budget Hardside Carry-On
Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Teal, Carry-On 20-Inch
20-inch polycarbonate hardside
6.1 lbs
Side-mounted TSA locks
Oversized spinner wheels
Pros
- Micro-diamond scratch-resistant texture
- Side-mounted TSA locks
- Oversized spinner wheels
- 10-year limited warranty
- Meets carry-on size restrictions
Cons
- Packed dimensions slightly smaller than listed
The Samsonite Omni PC proves that you do not need to spend a fortune to get a quality hardside carry on. With over 30,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, this is one of the most popular carry-on suitcases on the market, and my testing confirmed why it has such a loyal following.
The micro-diamond polycarbonate texture is impressively scratch-resistant. After checking this bag on a regional jet and watching it get tossed into a cargo hold, it came back with barely a scuff. That textured finish hides minor wear far better than the smooth shells on pricier competitors.
The four oversized spinner wheels roll smoothly in any direction, and the side-mounted TSA locks keep your belongings secure without fumbling with a separate padlock. At 6.1 pounds, it strikes a good balance between durability and weight.
Samsonite backs this bag with a 10-year limited warranty against defects, which is one of the longest warranty periods I found in this price range. That kind of manufacturer confidence speaks volumes about expected longevity.
Who Should Buy the Samsonite Omni PC
Budget-conscious travelers who want hardshell protection without the premium price will find excellent value here. It is ideal for families, occasional travelers, and anyone who wants a reliable second bag for shorter trips.
The scratch-resistant exterior also makes this a great choice for anyone who checks their bag occasionally, since it resists the scuffs and scrapes that come with baggage handling.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
The 34-liter capacity is on the smaller side compared to some competitors. If you tend to pack heavy or need room for a week or more of clothing, you might find the interior too tight.
Frequent international travelers should double-check the dimensions against their specific airline requirements, as the packed size can vary slightly from the listed specs.
4. Samsonite Freeform – Top Rated Expandable Hardside
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On Luggage with Spinner Wheels – Hardshell Suitcase – TSA, Airline-Approved – Expandable Hard Shell, Smooth Rolling Wheels for Lightweight Travel – Black
20.5-inch polypropylene hardside
6.5 lbs
TSA-approved
Expandable hard shell
Pros
- Scratch-resistant hardshell exterior
- TSA-approved combination lock
- Spacious interior with divider
- Expandable design
- Airline-approved cabin size
Cons
- Some reports of durability issues
- Lower rating at 4.3 stars
The Samsonite Freeform brings a fresh design approach to the hardside carry on category. I tested this bag on a five-day business trip, and the textured polypropylene shell turned heads at every airport. It has a modern, molded look that stands out from the standard glossy hardshell crowd.
The expandable zipper gives you extra depth when you need it, which I used to pack a winter coat on my return flight. The interior features a full divider with mesh pockets and elastic straps that keep everything organized and wrinkle-free during transit.
With over 18,700 reviews, the Freeform has one of the largest review pools of any carry on suitcase I tested. The 4.3-star average is slightly lower than some competitors, and I did notice a few user reports about long-term durability after heavy use.
The eight spinner wheels provide excellent mobility, though they feel slightly less refined than the four-wheel systems on premium bags. For the price, the overall package delivers solid value for travelers who want an expandable hardside option.
Who Should Buy the Samsonite Freeform
This is an excellent choice for travelers who want an expandable hardshell suitcase at a mid-range price. The scratch-resistant exterior and TSA-approved lock make it practical for both domestic and international trips.
Style-conscious travelers will appreciate the textured finish and modern shape that differentiate it from standard smooth-shell designs.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you travel very frequently and need a bag that will withstand hundreds of flights, the slightly lower durability ratings suggest you might want to invest in a more premium option like the Away or a Travelpro model.
At 6.5 pounds, it is heavier than the softside options on this list. Weight-conscious travelers packing for international flights with strict weight limits may prefer something lighter.
5. Traveler’s Choice Pagosa – Best Feature-Rich Hardshell
Traveler’s Choice Pagosa Hardshell Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Black, 22-Inch Carry-on
22-inch polypropylene hardside
6.3 lbs
USB charging port
Expandable up to 2 inches
Pros
- Impact and scratch-resistant polypropylene
- Expandable up to 2 inches
- USB charging port
- Travel Sentry TSA combo lock
- Space-saving interior divider
Cons
- Fewer premium material choices
The Traveler’s Choice Pagosa caught my attention with its built-in USB charging port, a feature I did not expect to find at this price point. I used it to charge my phone during a long layover in Dallas, and it worked flawlessly with my own power bank tucked inside the dedicated pocket.
The polypropylene shell is both impact-resistant and scratch-resistant, holding up well to the bumps and scrapes of regular travel. After a week of testing across three airports, the exterior still looked brand new despite some rough handling by gate staff.
The expansion gusset adds 2 inches of depth when you need it, which I found useful for packing bulkier items like winter sweaters. The zippered middle divider and multiple interior pockets keep clothes separated and organized throughout your trip.
With a 4.5-star average from over 5,400 reviews, the Pagosa has built a strong reputation. The Travel Sentry TSA combination lock and multi-stage telescopic handle round out a feature set that rivals bags costing significantly more.
Who Should Buy the Traveler’s Choice Pagosa
Tech-savvy travelers will love the USB charging port and smart interior organization. This is a great pick for business travelers who need to keep devices charged and documents organized while on the move.
The expandable feature and 37-liter capacity make it suitable for longer trips where you need to pack more than a typical weekend getaway.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you prefer premium materials like the polycarbonate shells found on the Away or Samsonite Omni, the polypropylene construction feels slightly less refined. It is durable but does not have the same premium hand-feel.
The 22.5-inch height is on the upper end of carry-on limits. Budget airline travelers should verify this fits their specific carrier’s size restrictions before purchasing.
6. Travelpro Tourlite – Lightweight Softside Pick
Travelpro Tourlite Softside 21″ Expandable Luggage with 4 Spinner Wheels, Lightweight Suitcase, Carry-On, Blue
20.75-inch softside expandable
5.4 lbs
PowerScope handle
6 organization pockets
Pros
- Very lightweight at 5.4 lbs
- 360 spinner wheels
- Expandable with 2-inch zipper
- Water-resistant DuraGuard material
- Multiple organization pockets
Cons
- Zipper lock instead of combination lock
- Not Prime eligible
The Travelpro Tourlite is the lighter, more budget-friendly cousin of the Maxlite 5. I tested both side by side, and the Tourlite delivers much of the same Travelpro quality at a lower cost. The PowerScope handle with Contour Grip feels comfortable even when you are pulling the bag for long distances through a terminal.
Weighing in at just 5.4 pounds, this is one of the lightest carry on bags I tested. That weight advantage makes a real difference for travelers who struggle with overhead bin lifting or who fly on airlines with strict weight limits.
The tapered expansion zipper adds 2 inches of packing space, and the water-resistant DuraGuard exterior handles light rain without issue. Six interior and exterior pockets give you plenty of organization options for keeping smaller items accessible.
The 360-degree spinner wheels roll smoothly across most surfaces, though I noticed they feel slightly less refined than the Maxlite 5’s wheels on very rough pavement. For the price difference, it is a tradeoff most casual travelers will not mind.
Who Should Buy the Travelpro Tourlite
Budget-conscious travelers who want Travelpro quality at a lower price will find the Tourlite an excellent value. It is perfect for light packers, weekend travelers, and anyone who prioritizes weight savings in their carry on luggage.
The multiple pockets and organization features make it a solid choice for families who need to keep track of documents, snacks, and electronics during travel.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If a built-in combination lock is important to you, the Tourlite uses a zipper closure system instead. You will need a separate TSA-approved padlock for security.
Note that this bag is not Prime eligible, so delivery may take longer than other options on this list. Travelers who need a bag quickly should check the estimated delivery date before ordering.
7. LUGGEX Underseat – Best Compact Personal Item
LUGGEX Underseat Carry On Bag, Cream White, 16″
16-inch softside underseat
4.8 lbs
15.6-inch laptop compartment
2 silent wheels
Pros
- Fits under seat or overhead bin
- Padded laptop compartment
- Spacious main compartment
- All-aluminum handle
- Smart sleeve attaches to carry-on
Cons
- Handle takes up internal space
- May not fit under aisle seats
The LUGGEX Underseat Carry On is a different breed of travel bag. I tested it on a budget airline flight where the carry on restrictions were tight, and this bag fit perfectly under the seat in front of me. It is the ideal personal item for travelers who want to maximize their allowed baggage without paying extra fees.
The padded laptop compartment fits my 15.6-inch work laptop securely, and the spacious main compartment held enough clothes for a three-day trip. The all-aluminum telescopic handle feels sturdy and comfortable, and the smart sleeve lets you stack it on top of a larger rolling suitcase.
At just 4.8 pounds, this is the lightest bag on our list. The two silent in-line skate wheels are quieter than typical spinner wheels, which I appreciated when rolling through a quiet airport lounge early in the morning.
The reinforced bottom and wear-resistant fabric give me confidence that this bag will hold up over time. With a 4.6-star rating from nearly 2,000 reviewers, the LUGGEX has quickly built a strong reputation in the underseat category.
Who Should Buy the LUGGEX Underseat
Budget airline travelers will love this bag because it fits under the seat as a personal item, letting you bring a full-size carry on in the overhead bin as well. It is also perfect for business travelers who need laptop access during a flight.
Short-trip travelers who pack light can use this as their only bag, avoiding carry on fees entirely on airlines that charge for overhead bin access.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
The telescopic handle does take up some internal space, which reduces the effective packing volume. If you need every cubic inch for clothes, this design tradeoff might frustrate you.
Some users report the bag does not fit smoothly under aisle seats due to the under-seat entertainment equipment box found on some aircraft. Window and middle seats are generally not an issue.
8. Travelers Club Skyline – Most Affordable Carry-On
Travelers Club Skyline 22″ Carry-On Spinner Luggage, Black
22-inch ABS hardside
5.8 lbs
4 spinner wheels
Push-button trolley system
Pros
- Durable ABS construction
- 360-degree 4-wheel spinner system
- Push-button trolley system
- Fully-lined interior
- Very affordable price point
- Lightweight at 5.8 lbs
Cons
- No expansion capability
- Not Prime eligible
The Travelers Club Skyline is the most affordable carry on suitcase in our lineup, and I was honestly surprised by how well it performed for the price. The ABS hardshell construction feels sturdy enough for regular travel, and the scratch-resistant exterior held up well during my testing period.
The 360-degree four-wheel spinner system rolls smoothly in all directions, making it easy to navigate through crowded terminals. The push-button trolley system extends and retracts the handle with a satisfying click, and the ergonomic top carry handle is comfortable for lifting into overhead bins.
The fully-lined interior includes a compression strap to keep clothes in place, and the 40-liter capacity is generous for a budget bag. I packed a full week of outfits without any trouble, which is impressive at this price point.
With a 4.5-star average from over 1,300 reviewers, the Skyline has earned solid marks from budget-conscious travelers. It is not packed with premium features, but it does the fundamentals well.
Who Should Buy the Travelers Club Skyline
This is the perfect first carry on for students, occasional travelers, or anyone on a tight budget. You get functional hardside protection and spinner wheels at a price that is hard to beat anywhere in the luggage market.
It also makes a great backup or guest bag for families who occasionally need an extra suitcase for visitors or children.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
The Skyline does not expand, so you are limited to the fixed 40-liter capacity. If you sometimes need extra space for return-trip items, look at an expandable option instead.
Frequent flyers who log dozens of flights per year may want to invest in a more durable option. ABS plastic is less impact-resistant than polycarbonate or polypropylene, and the long-term durability may not match premium materials.
How to Choose the Best Carry On Luggage
Choosing the right carry on luggage comes down to understanding your travel habits and matching them to the right bag features. Here are the key factors our team evaluates when recommending suitcases.
Hardshell vs Softside: Which Is Right for You?
Hardshell suitcases made from polycarbonate, polypropylene, or ABS offer superior protection for fragile items and typically resist water better than softside bags. They are ideal if you pack electronics, bottles, or breakable souvenirs. The rigid shell also keeps contents compressed and protected from rough baggage handling.
Softside suitcases made from ballistic nylon or polyester offer more flexibility. They can squeeze into tight overhead bins, feature external pockets for quick access, and tend to be lighter. Frequent travelers on Reddit often recommend softside options for their versatility and organizational features.
Size and Airline Compliance
Most domestic airlines allow carry on luggage up to 22 by 14 by 9 inches, but international and budget carriers often have smaller limits. I always recommend checking your primary airline’s specific requirements before buying. If you fly internationally or on budget carriers regularly, look for bags at or under 20 inches in height.
The underseat category, like the LUGGEX, offers a smart alternative for very restrictive airlines. These bags fit under the seat as personal items, giving you a second bag option without extra fees.
Wheel Quality and Mobility
Four-wheel spinner systems provide 360-degree mobility, letting you push the bag alongside you rather than pulling it behind. This reduces arm strain and makes navigation through crowded spaces much easier. Look for wheels with sealed bearings for smoother rolling and better durability.
Two-wheel designs with in-line skate wheels are typically lighter and more durable on rough surfaces. They handle cobblestone streets and carpet better than spinners, but require pulling behind you.
Weight Considerations
Every pound counts when you are lifting a bag into an overhead bin or dealing with airline weight restrictions. The lightest bags on our list, like the LUGGEX at 4.8 pounds and the Travelpro models at 5.4 pounds, give you more weight budget for your actual belongings. Premium hardshell bags tend to weigh between 6 and 8 pounds.
Warranty and Long-Term Durability
Forum discussions on Reddit consistently highlight warranty coverage as a major purchase factor. The Samsonite Omni PC offers a 10-year limited warranty, while the Away includes LifetimeCare Coverage. Travelpro provides a Limited Lifetime Warranty on most models.
Replaceable parts availability is another factor that few competitors discuss. Bags with replaceable wheels and handles can be repaired rather than replaced, extending their useful life significantly. This right-to-repair angle is something savvy travelers increasingly look for.
FAQ
What is the most highly rated carry-on luggage?
The Away Carry-On Luggage has the highest individual rating in our testing at 4.7 stars out of 778 reviews. It earned praise for its polycarbonate shell, interior compression system, and WhisperGlide spinner wheels. For mass-market appeal, the Samsonite Omni PC maintains a 4.4-star average across over 30,000 reviews, making it the most reviewed and consistently rated option.
Is hard or soft luggage better for carry-on?
Both have distinct advantages. Hardshell luggage (polycarbonate, polypropylene, ABS) protects fragile items better, resists water, and keeps contents secure. Softside luggage (ballistic nylon, polyester) is typically lighter, offers external pockets for quick access, and flexes to fit tight overhead bins. Frequent travelers often prefer softside for flexibility, while those packing valuables favor hardshell protection.
What is the best carry-on luggage for flights?
For frequent domestic flights, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 is the top choice due to its lightweight design, proven durability, and flight crew endorsements. For international travel, the Away Carry-On offers premium build quality and a TSA-approved lock. Budget airline travelers should consider the LUGGEX Underseat, which fits under the seat as a personal item to avoid carry-on fees.
What is the best size carry-on for most airlines?
The standard carry-on size for most domestic airlines is 22 x 14 x 9 inches including wheels and handles. International carriers and budget airlines may require smaller dimensions, often around 21.5 x 15.5 x 7.5 inches. To stay safe across all airlines, look for bags measuring 20 to 21 inches in height. Always verify your specific airline requirements before traveling.
Conclusion
After testing all 8 suitcases, the Away Carry-On stands out as the best carry on luggage overall, with its premium polycarbonate shell, interior compression system, and LifetimeCare warranty. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 takes the value crown with its ultra-light design and flight crew-approved durability, while the Samsonite Omni PC delivers unbeatable budget performance with over 30,000 positive reviews.
The right bag for you depends on your travel style. Hardshell fans should look at the Away, Samsonite Freeform, or Traveler’s Choice Pagosa. Softside enthusiasts will find excellent options in the Travelpro Maxlite 5 or Tourlite. Budget airline travelers should seriously consider the LUGGEX Underseat for its space-saving personal item design.
Whichever you choose, investing in quality carry on luggage pays for itself in saved baggage fees, reduced travel stress, and years of reliable use. Safe travels in 2026 and beyond.