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The Best Carry On Luggage

Last updated on March 15, 2024
Best Carry On Suitcase

Our Review Process

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When you travel, it’s a good idea to have a few things at your disposal. You’ll want comfort items, personal care products and an extra set of clothing. Since it is unlikely that you’ll be able to fit all of these things in your purse, you’ll need to purchase a carry on suitcase.

Ideal carry on luggage has 360-degree spinner wheels, so you don’t have to lift the bag. The wheels make it so that you can push or pull the suitcase in any direction.

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A telescoping handle with a comfortable grip is also essential to maneuvering the carry-on. Check for a push-button recessed locking handle system with at least a few height options. You want to be able to adjust the handle to match your height.

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Review the carry on suitcase’s construction material. A durable ABS material is a good choice, as its hard shell protects the contents of the bag much better than a soft material. If you do opt for a bag made using a softer material, make sure it is coated to resist water and stains, as the more you travel, the more likely you are to come into contact with rain and mud puddles.

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You may also want to opt for a carry on bag that has a few extras, such as a built-in TSA lock or one that comes with a choice of colors and patterns. There are also suitcases with an abundance of interior and exterior pockets and compartments, which will help you stay organized during your trip.

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Our Picks For The Top Carry-On Luggage

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

AmazonBasics Wheeled Carry On Suitcase, 21-Inch

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AmazonBasics

Wheeled Carry On Suitcase, 21-Inch

Thanks to its hard outer shell, this carry-on suitcase will keep all of your valuables safe when traveling. The shell is also scratch-resistant, which ensures the luggage continues to look like new even years after you bought it. Inside the suitcase, you'll find plenty of room for your items; however, the bag also expands by 15% to allow for additi...

Overall Take

Expands for More StorageThis carry-on suitcase has a telescoping handle, spinner wheels and three inner pockets.

 Top Pick

Rockland Melbourne Ergonomic Lightweight Suitcase, 20-Inch

Rockland

Melbourne Ergonomic Lightweight Suitcase, 20-Inch

Available in over 30 fun colors, this suitcase is perfect for the weekend traveler. Clothing items and hygiene products are kept safe, thanks to the durable ABS material. The carry-on is also easy to maneuver around an airport, as it's made with spinner wheels and a telescoping handle.y

Overall Take

Most AffordableYou won't have any trouble sticking to your budget when you opt for this economical suitcase.

 Runner Up

Travelers Club Chicago Rolling Carry On Suitcase, 20-Inch

Travelers Club

Chicago Rolling Carry On Suitcase, 20-Inch

Use the push-button recessed locking handle system to effortlessly move the Travelers Club Chicago Luggage, 20-Inch from point A to point B. This carry on suitcase has a hard outer shell for extra protection and spinner wheels, so you don't have to do any heavy lifting. Your clothing is also kept neat and in place, thanks to the handy compression b...

Overall Take

Multiple Color OptionsBuyers will love that the Travelers Club Chicago Luggage, 20-Inch comes in nine different colors and designs.

 Runner Up

kensie Alma Wheeled Hard Shell Affordable Luggage, 20-Inch

kensie

Alma Wheeled Hard Shell Affordable Luggage, 20-Inch

This affordable luggage includes a recessed TSA lock system that provides secure travel. It's also expandable for extra packing capacity.

Overall Take

Expandable and TSA-FriendlyThis hard shell suitcase includes a recessed TSA lock system that provides secure travel.

What to Look For

  • Review the cleaning instructions for the carry on suitcase you purchased before attempting to wash it. Hardshell luggage, for example, can be wiped down with a wet rag. Bags made using a soft material, on the other hand, might have more complex cleaning instructions. Of course, you can use the attachment on your vacuum to clean out the inside of any piece of luggage.
  • There are a few features that affect the price of carry-on suitcases. These include size, construction materials and the number of pockets and storage compartments. The Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage, 20-Inch has a moderate price tag. The AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Carry On Luggage, 21-Inch has the highest cost of the bunch.

More to Explore

Before you head to the airport, it’s important that you know the rules and regulations that have been created in regard to carry on bags. For example, the airline may require all carry on suitcases to not exceed 22 by 14 by 9-inches, as anything bigger may not fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat. In some cases, the airline may also have weight restrictions.

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The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) also restricts certain items to checked baggage only. For example, you cannot pack a baseball bat, toy swords made of foam, gel candles, gel heating pads or Magic 8 Balls in a carry on, even though they are permissible in your checked luggage.

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